New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce Regional Report by Chronogram

REGIONAL

REPORT

SUMMER 2009

A QUARTERLY BUSINESS NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PICK OF THE TWITTER

USING SOCIAL MEDIA TO STRENGTHEN YOUR BUSINESS

IN THIS ISSUE

By Kelley Granger

Customer Service Essentials

Report from the Disney Institute

Something Big is Cooking

Coming Up Roses

he last Super Bowl game between the Steelers and Cardinals drew 95 million people to their TVs. Companies paid $3 million for a 30-second commercial spot during the game. Though that audience size is considerable exposure for any business, it pales in comparison to Facebook’s 200,000,000 global users. Among these users are companies that are using social media as a tool to build their business—all for free. While not a replacement for traditional forms of marketing, being involved in the world of online networking can offer a unique, multidimensional customer connection. If you haven’t begun working on your online presence, now is the time to start. Continued on p. 12

A preview of the professional development workshop on July 31.

Some tips attendees learned from Disney’s leadership model on June 16.

Behind the scenes with the organizers of the Taste of New Paltz.

A preview of the upcoming Sixth Annual New Paltz Regional Garden Tour.

124 MAIN ST. SUITE 8 NEW PALTZ NY 12561 845 255 0243 F 845 255 5189 E INFO@NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG

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Letter from JOYCE MINARD Michael Gold / The Corporate Image

s Internet-based social media and networking applications become more easily accessible, we have added a new range of tools to help us connect, communicate, and collaborate with our members and with the Hudson Valley. What is social media? According to Wikipedia “[In] its most basic sense, social media is a shift in how people discover, read, and share news, information and content. The audience can participate in social media by adding comments, instant messaging or even editing the stories themselves.” How does it work? In a recent blog post, Chris Winfield, president and co-founder of 10e20, states, “Whether you are looking to grow your network, influence, awareness, and reach, or advancing your professional and personal goals it’s important to recognize that being successful in social networking online and offline is very similar.” The Chamber has always been a leading force in “offline” networking, providing superior opportunities for face-to-face relationship building; we have now begun to apply our broad networking experience to these 21st-century web-based media. Through Facebook we share highlights of past Chamber events, send invitations to upcoming Chamber events, facilitate relationship building among the Chamber’s friend network, and help our network go viral through profile postings and comments. Our frequent Twitter “tweets” are a short but sweet source of up-to-the-minute Chamber notifications and news bulletins, perfect for “just-the-facts” style updates. On Mondays, the Chamber’s substantive Event Reminder e-mails keep our members squarely in the Chamber loop, and our Thursday Member2Member e-mails let our members share good news, specials, promotions and announcements with their Chamber peers. In this issue of Regional Report you’ll learn more about best practices for using Internet-based social media to the best advantage of your business. In September, the Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz will present the Professional

40TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Events in the planning include a trip aboard the Catskill Dinner Train and an Epicurean Farm Tour of small town farms and historic sites in the heart of the Catskills. For information on celebration events, email John Novi at jnovi@hvc.rr.com.

NATIONAL REGISTERED PROPERTIES

Development Series Panel Discussion “Social Networking Works,” which will focus on this topic as well. The Chamber is committed to raising your visibility and growing your influence through both classic networking strategies and electronic media. Connect. Communicate. Collaborate. These three words almost always appear in conjunction with the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce name and logo because they speak to the core of our mission to serve our members and our community by building relationships, sharing knowledge and information, and working together to further the success of our region.

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REGIONAL REPORT SUMMER 2009

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS American Red Cross, Ulster County Chapter 21 O’Neil Street Kingston, NY 12401 Contact: Peggy Morache E-mail: director@ulsterredcross.org Website: www.UlsterRedCross.org Category: Health and Human Services

Anthony’s Taxi Shuttling Service 5 Southside Ave. Apt. #10D New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-2870 / fax (845) 255-2870 Contact: Shadia & Keniel Lee E-mail: imperialtime@yahoo.com Website: www.anthonysshuttleservice.com Category: Taxi Service

Antiques Dealers Association of Ulster County PO Box 246 Hurley, NY 12443 (845) 255-1403 Contact: Walter Marquez Website: www.ulsterantiques.com Category: Business Associations

AT&T/CR Wireless 234 Main Street Rite Aid Plaza New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-4630 / fax (845) 256-9074 Contact: Mike Arpey, Erkan Minerel E-mail: newpaltz@crwireless.com Website: www.crwireless.com Category: Cellular Phones

Bling The Party

Citizens Bank 271 Main Street New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 256-3802 / fax (845) 256-3810 Website: www.citizensbank.com Category: Banks

Cooper & Company PO Box 344 West Park, NY 12493 (914) 456-9900 Contact: Dennis C. Cooper E-mail: ddccooper@aol.com Category: Construction

Emerge 1040 Creek Locks Road Rosendale, NY 12472 (845) 688-1546 / fax (845) 688-1546 Contact: Colette Ruoff E-mail: coletteruoff@earthlink.net Category: Coaching - Professional & Life

Ethan Allen Staffing 59 Academy Street Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 (845) 471-9667 / fax (845) 471-9856 Contact: Tom Lemmey E-mail: info@eastaffing.com Website: www.eastaffing.com Category: Human Resource Consultants

Hardenbergh House 118 Maple Hill Drive Rosendale, NY 12472 (845) 658-3846 / fax: (845) 658-3845 Contact: Martha Kandl E-mail: mk@hardenberghouse.com Website: www.hardenberghouse.com Category: Bed and Breakfasts

PO Box 265 Tillson, NY 12486 845-901-0083 / fax 845-501-3129 Contact: Tom Shanley E-mail: tom@BlingTheParty.com Website: www.BlingTheParty.com Category: Event Marketing & Planning

Hugaren LLC

C.T. Male Associates, P.C.

Ireland Corners Automotive Group

652 Route 299, Suite 204B Highland, NY 12528 (845) 691-7234 Contact: Jim McIver E-mail: j.mciver@ctmale.com Website: www.ctmale.com Category: Engineers/Engineering Services

2170 Route 44 55 Gardiner, NY 12525 (845) 255-7600 / fax (845) 255-1434 Contact: Kathleen Crosbie E-mail: sales@irelandcorners.com Website: www.irelandcorners.com Category: Automobile Sales/Service

CB Consulting 12 Wood Lot Road New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 332-0886 Contact: Christina Bark E-mail: stinabark@gmail.com Category: Consultant - Small Business

162 Lippincott Rd. Wallkill, NY 12589 (845) 239-2730 Contact: Hugh D. Crowell E-mail: kvcrowel@yahoo.com Category: A.T.M. Sales & Service

Leonie Lacouette Clocks 10 Lacouette Lane Wallkill, NY 12589 (845) 255-3762 / fax (845) 255-3762 Contact: Leonie Lacouette E-mail: leonie@leonietime.com Website: www.leonietime.com Category: Clocks

New members who joined between February 16 and May 15. Maglyn’s Dream 10 Main Street #307 New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 256-0522 / fax (845) 256-0522 Contact: Lynn or Maggie E-mail: info@maglynsdream.com Website: www.maglynsdream.com Category: Gift Shops

Mosaic Meetings & Events 20 Hellbrook Lane Ulster Park, NY 12487 (971) 227-1970 Contact: Linda Snyder E-mail: info@mosaicmeetingsandevents.com Website: www.mosaicmeetingsandevents.com Category: Event Marketing & Planning

New Paltz DBA 6 North Front Street New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-6277 / fax (845) 255-0625 Contact: Marge or Melinda E-mail: dbanewpaltz@yahoo.com Category: Business Associations

Pine Bush House Bed and Breakfast 215 Maple Avenue Pine Bush, NY 12566 (845) 744-3641 Contact: Barbara Grey E-mail: barbara@pinebushhouse.com Website: www.pinebushhouse.com Category: Bed and Breakfasts

Robibero Family Vineyards 714 Albany Post Road New Paltz, NY 12561 (914) 968-6545 Contact: Harry Robibero E-mail: robiberofamilyvineyards@yahoo.com Website: www.robiberofamilyvineyards.com Category: Wineries

The Skilly Pot Antique Center, dba On the Hill Antiques 41 Broadway Kingston, NY 12401 (845) 338-6779 Contact: Sue Schreter E-mail: mystinkydo@aol.com Category: Antiques

Uptown Attic 133 Main Street Gardiner, NY 12525 (845) 255-0093 Contact: Jodi Whitehead E-mail: uptownattic2009@aol.com Website: www.uptownattic.net Category: Consignment Shop

Venturi Web Design PO Box 162 Ulster Park, NY 12487 (845) 430-0983 Contact: Jordan Dick E-mail: jordan@vwebinc.com Website: www.venturiwebdesign.com Category: Website Design and Support

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CONTENTS

Pick of the Twitter: Using Social Networking to Strengthen Your Business How to tap into the power of new media to market your business, solidify client relationships, and exert greater control over your online presence.

Customer Service Essentials

Report from the Disney Institute

Legislation & News Affecting Your Business

Event Spotlight: Taste of New Paltz

A preview of “Embedding a Culture of Customer Service for Profitable Growth,” part of the Foundation’s ongoing professional development series, will be held at the SUNY New Paltz School of Business on July 31.

Creating Wellness for Individuals & Businesses Corporate Wellness Progams Nutrition Counseling Health Fairs

On June 16, at the Mohonk Mountain House, 130 conference attendees learned about the business magic behind Disney’s success at the all day “Disney Keys to Excellence” conference. Here’s what we learned.

Stability predicted in gasoline prices this summer, reformers in state government fight to consolidate agencies and cut costs, Mid-Hudson job losses not as bad as expected, and the Employee Free Choice Act of 2009.

Regional Report talks with Taste of New Paltz co-chairs Christy Drouin and Kathy Combs about what it takes to put on the Chamber’s marquee event, which will be held this year on September 13 at the Ulster County Fairgrounds.

Event Spotlight: Regional Garden Tour

Member Profiles: Outdoor Recreation

Professional Writing Product Representation & Health Research Speaking

Everything’s hush-hush about the sites of the upcoming Tour on July 12, but event chair Walter Marquez drops some hints as to what tourgoers can expect.

www.Nutrition-wise.com

Regional Report checks in with The River Connection, Adventure Junction, The Blue Sky Ranch, and The Bicycle Rack about the nature of their business.

VKoenig@Nutrition-wise.com 7 Innis Avenue New Paltz, NY 12561

Recent Chamber Events

Upcoming Events

Member Updates

Member Renewals

Membership Matters

845.255.2398

REGIONAL REPORT SUMMER 2009

NPRCoC BOARD AND STAFF Board Officers

Board of Directors Elections

Ernie VanDeMark Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp. 1 VICE CHAIR Chris Drouin Beyond Wealth Management 2 ND VICE CHAIR Craig Shankles PDQ Printing and Graphics TREASURER Sue VanVoorhis M&T Bank FINANCIAL ADVISOR Jerry Luke Fox Hill B&B LEGAL COUNSEL Paul O’Neill Attorney at Law PAST CHAIR Robert Glemming

The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce Nominating Committee, chaired by Rick Lewis, presented its slate for election to the Board of Directors. Those elected will serve three-year terms, effective July 1, 2009.

CHAIR ST

Board of Directors

Frank Curcio Clear Channel Radio of the Hudson Valley Helen Gutfreund LMT, Bodymind Massage Therapy Connie Harkin Ulster Savings Richard Heyl de Ortiz Historic Huguenot Street Kay Hoiby Free Fall Express/dba: Blue Sky Ranch Dr. David Ness Certified Chiropractic Sports Practitioner Kathleen Packard KathodeRay Media Diane Reeder The Queens Galley Shelley Turk Rocking Horse Ranch Susan Van De Bogart St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital Helise Winters SUNY New Paltz (CRREO) EMERITUS MEMBERS

Robert Leduc Mohonk Mountain House Rick Lewis Riverside Bank Margaret McDowell Bermac Home Aides, Inc. Ofc. Scott Schaffrick New Paltz Police Department Chamber Staff

Joyce Minard President Christine Crawfis Director of Marketing & Communications Cathy Hyland Membership Director Lucy Paradies Assistant Director of Finance & Membership Janet Nurre Communications & Programs Administrator

Regional Report is published quarterly by the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with Luminary Publishing. Information in this publication was carefully compiled to ensure maximum accuracy. However, the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce cannot guarantee the correctness of all information provided herein. Readers noting inaccurate information should contact the Chamber with corrections and updates. @2009 New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written permission of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce and Luminary Publishing is strictly prohibited.

The newly elected members of the Board of Directors are: Chris Drouin — Beyond Wealth Management Kay Hoiby — FreeFall Express/dba Blue Sky Ranch Dr. David Ness — Performance Sports & Wellness Kathleen Packard — KathodeRay Media Craig Shankles — PDQ Printing and Graphics The following were appointed to the Board to complete current unfinished terms: Shelley Turk - Rocking Horse Ranch Connie Harkin - Ulster Savings Richard Heyl de Ortiz - Historic Huguenot Street

The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce is a distinguished member of:

American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) Chamber Alliance of New York State (CANYS) The Business Council of New York State, Inc. (BCNYS) Mid-Hudson Pattern for Progress Southern Ulster Alliance Business Marketing Association—Hudson Valley Chapter New York’s Tech Valley Chamber Coalition Hudson Valley Regional Coalition (One Valley—One Voice) Who We Are

The New Paltz Regional Chamber, organized in 1900, is an active and trusted voice in the regional business and residential community that forges strong relationships between businesses and residents and promotes growth, prosperity, a sense of local pride, and a high quality of life in the Hudson Valley region. The newly formed Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz aids and augments the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce’s current slate of successful educational programs. The Foundation envisions a comprehensive program of educational activities and scholarships, all geared toward educating and supporting the community.

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RECENT CHAMBER EVENTS 1

1 Staff of Shop Rite Supermarket of New Paltz pitch in at the 13th Annual New Paltz Clean Sweep, held on Saturday, April 25, 2009. 2 NPRCoC Past Board Chair Bob Glemming presents a certificate of appreciation to Walter Marquez of Antiques Barn at Water Street Market, New Paltz. Antiques Barn hosted our Spring Business Card Exchange on May 1, 2009. 3 Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz was the setting for the NPRCoC May Business Luncheon featuring Wade Lawrence, director of The Museum at Bethel Woods. The event was held on May 20, 2009 in MMH’s beautiful outdoor skating pavilion. 4 NPRCoC Membership Director Cathy Hyland with SUNY New Paltz students Amanda Peters, Sarah Coppola, Elizabeth O’Rourke and Sean Reminick, and Rich Rauch of the Gilded Otter Brewing Co. Mentored by Hyland, the students were the winners of the SUNY New Paltz School of Business Annual Business Plan Contest. 5 Bonnie Greene of Pussyfoot Lodge with Tony Mitov and Donna Mills of Tri-County Planning Services at the NPRCoC April After-Hours Mixer, held on May 12, 2009 at Joe’s East-West, New Paltz.

REGIONAL REPORT SUMMER 2009

UPCOMING EVENTS Tuesday, July 7

After-Hours Mixer @ Cosimo’s, Poughkeepsie Imagine a mid-summer evening in Tuscany with our July After-Hours Mixer. Cosimo’s offers a rustic yet sophisticated setting for a beautiful evening of delicious hors d’oeuvres and fantastic networking. Time: 5:30 –7:30 p.m. Place: Cosimo’s Poughkeepsie, 120 Delafield Street, Poughkeepsie Cost: Complimentary to members, $5 nonmembers Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org SUNDAY, JULY 12

Sixth Annual New Paltz Regional Garden Tour A variety of midsummer horticultural delights await you as some of the region’s most breathtaking and lovingly crafted gardens open to the public. In celebration of the Hudson Quadricentennial, this year’s tour will feature a variety of gardens on or near the Hudson River. The tour will culminate in a catered reception in one of the area’s most beautiful secret gardens—the grounds of Headless Horseman Haunted Houses and Hayrides. Proceeds benefit the Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz Scholarship Fund. Time: 11:00 a.m. –5:00 p.m. Place: Various gardens on or near the Hudson River Cost: $25 in advance, $30 on the day of the tour Tickets are required. Advance tickets may be purchased at Antiques Barn at Water Street Market, 10 Main St., New Paltz; Enthusiastic Spirits and Wine, 119 Main St., Gardiner; Handmade and More, 6 North Front St., New Paltz; and the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce, 124 Main St., Suite 8, New Paltz. Tickets on the day of the tour may be purchased at the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce only. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org for more information. Wednesday, July 15

Business Luncheon @ Elting Memorial Library, New Paltz, featuring Barbara Hargrave, library board president, and John Giralico, library director. Catered by Bridge Creek Catering. Help us celebrate the Elting Memorial Library’s 8

100th anniversary. Learn more about the Library from Board President Barbara Hardgrave, Library Director John Giralico, and Carol Johnson of the Haviland Heidgard Historical Collection. Founded in 1909, the library’s stone building is on the State and National historic registers. Sponsor: CDPHP Time: 12:00–1:30 p.m. Place: Elting Memorial Library, 93 Main St., New Paltz. Catered by Bridge Creek Catering Cost: Complimentary to Corporate Partners, $18 for members, $25 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org Wednesday, July 29

Summer Business Card Exchange @ the Offices of Schain and Company, CPA and Commonwealth Advisors, Ltd. Our sizzling hot summer networking event! Our quarterly business card exchanges are overwhelmingly popular—come prepared with plenty of business cards. Time: 7:30–9:00 a.m. Place: Schain and Company, CPA and Commonwealth Advisors, Ltd., 70 North Putt Corners Road, New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to members, $5 nonmembers Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org Friday, July 31

Professional Development Series Panel Discussion III, “Embedding a Culture of Customer Service for Profitable Growth” @ SUNY New Paltz School of Business Satisfied customers tell three people about their experience; unsatisfied customers tell everyone they know. This panel discussion will teach you how to provide top-flight customer service in a fast-paced economy, how to manage your online reputation, and ways to elicit constructive feedback from customers to enhance their experience and your profits. Panelists include Erick Roosa, training manager, Mohonk Mountain House; business consultant Christina Bark; and Chris Winfield, president and co-founder of 10e20. Facilitated by Chris Drouin of Beyond Wealth Management. Sponsor: Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz Time: 9:00 –11:00 a.m. Place: SUNY New Paltz School of Business,

SAVE THE DATE Saturday, October 3 Annual Golf Outing, sponsored by the Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz.

van den Berg Hall, room 110 Cost: Complimentary to members, $15 nonmembers Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org Thursday, August 13

After-Hours Mixer @ DePuy Canal House, High Falls Come celebrate DePuy Canal House’s 40th Anniversary year and grow your connections with our August After-Hours Mixer. Opened in 1969 by Chef/Owner John Novi, the Canal House’s original fireplaces, wide wooden floorboards, and marvelous collection of antiques, maps, clippings and local folk art make it a perfect backdrop for spectacular hors d’oeuvres and fantastic networking. Time: 5:30–7:30 p.m. Place: DePuy Canal House, Route 213, High Falls Cost: Complimentary for members, $5 nonmembers Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org Wednesday, August 19

Business Luncheon @ Harvest Café Restaurant and Wine Bar, featuring Walter Marquez, president of Antiques Dealers Association of Ulster County In the antiques trade, what makes the difference between trash and treasure? Find out from Walter Marquez of Antiques Barn at Water Street Market, president of the Antiques Dealers Association of Ulster County. Attendees are encouraged to bring along an item for Walter’s expert examination, a la “Antiques Roadshow.” Seating will be limited; early reservations are strongly recommended. Sponsor: HealthQuest Time: 12:00–1:30 p.m. Place: Harvest Café Restaurant and Wine Bar, 10 Main St., New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to Corporate Partners, $18 for members, $25 non-members Limited seating, reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org

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Sunday, September 13

19th Annual Taste of New Paltz @ the Ulster County Fairgrounds, New Paltz A delicious Hudson Valley tradition, the Taste of New Paltz showcases more than 30 of the region’s best restaurants, wineries and farm markets. Between tastes, have family fun at the Kids Expo, shop the ecclectic booths of the Craft Expo & the Country Store, enter the Great Giveaway in the Business Expo, and ease your conscience at the Wellness & Recreation Expo. Time: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Place: Ulster County Fairgrounds, 249 Libertyville Rd., New Paltz Cost: Cost: $3 in advance, $5 at the door. A limited number of advance ticket packages –including admission, 10 taste tickets, and a 19th Annual Taste of New Paltz t-shirt–available at the Chamber office for $20. Call 845-255-0243 for more information. Tuesday, September 22

After-Hours Mixer @ Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits, New Paltz Help us say farewell to summer and build your business network with our September AfterHours Mixer. Guests will enjoy wine tasting and delicious food, and discover Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits’ passion—helping guests discover their new favorite wine or spirit. Time: 5:30–7:30 p.m. Place: Fox & Hound Wine & Spirits, 20 New Paltz Plaza, New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to members, $5 nonmembers Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org Wednesday, September 23

Professional Development Series Panel Discussion IV, “Social Networking Works” @ SUNY New Paltz School of Business Facilitated by Kathleen Packard of KathodeRay Media, Inc., this panel discussion will feature a case study of successful integration of social networking to drive growth and help you learn how to manage social networking content to carefully control and craft your message. Panelists include Terence Ward of The Professional Wordsmith and Kathy Combs of 36 Main Restaurant and Wine Bar. Sponsor: Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz Time: 9:00–11:00 a.m. Place: SUNY New Paltz School of Business, van den Berg Hall room 110 Cost: Complimentary to members, $15 nonmembers Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org REGIONAL REPORT SUMMER 2009

customer service essentials Aligning with Client Needs By Kelley Granger As part of the ongoing Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz professional development series, the workshop “Embedding a Culture of Customer Service for Profitable Growth,” will be held on July 31 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the SUNY New Paltz School of Business, in van den Berg Hall, Room 110. Chris Drouin of Beyond Wealth Management will moderate and facilitate the discussion. Speakers will include Christina Bark, a business consultant, Erick Roosa, the training manager of Mohonk Mountain House, and Chris Winfield, president and co-founder of 10e20.

ustomer service can be as simple as beer and milk. At least that’s how it appeared to business consultant Christina Bark, who was describing the phenomenon that turned a floundering convenience store into a success after new ownership took over. The answer wasn’t a costly redesign or the hiring (or firing) of staff—the turnaround came when the management asked customers what they wanted. The plain truth was that they wanted a different brand of milk and a larger selection of beer. “Some of the things that could be holding back your business could be very simple,” says Bark. “Trying to think of ways to get at that information is worth your while because it can make all the difference.” Applying a customer service policy doesn’t have to be expensive or involve a complex system of feedback. With a little planning, employee motivation, and some 10

creativity, it’s a often a free way to bolster your bottom line. Bark advises her clients to prioritize customer service for a number of reasons. For one, she says the customers can often help business owners see ahead of the curve in terms of trends. “It’s hard to anticipate and look for trends, but customers have a unique position to help us see the trends,” Bark explains. “If you have a close relationship with getting customer input you can start to see those trends and make changes in your business accordingly.” For instance, businesses that were in touch with their customer base saw shifts in their customers’ spending behavior last spring—and were able to plan staffing and spending cuts to deal with the impending economic crisis that hit in the fall. Customers can also help you mind the store, Bark says. She imagines them as inspectors who come in with a white glove who

may be able to point out aspects of the business that have gone untended. “Everyone has their thing that they’re particular about, so collectively you’ve probably got all your bases covered,” Bark says. “You’ve got people with attention to detail and people who are sensitive to people skills, and as a business owner it’s hard to keep track of everything [by yourself].” So where to start? Chris Drouin, the CEO of Beyond Wealth Management and a vice chairman of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce, recommends determining the level of service that you want to provide and formulating corresponding customer service goals. Then streamline them. Businesses may have lofty ambitions of providing superior service through a variety of means, but often it’s just not realistic. “It’s not possible to give everything to everyone,” he says. “You have to maximize your time with revenue producing activities.”

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TIPS OF THE TRADE reate employee training that teaches C and then reinforces customer service principles on a regular basis. —Erick Roosa on’t try to do too much—streamline and D prioritize your customer service goals. —Chris Drouin I nvite your customer to give feedback at the point of purchase. —Christina Bark S tandardize your customer service goals to ensure the same quality every time. —Chris Drouin on’t ask your customer what they’re D unhappy with, but how you can do better next time. —Christina Bark emember a customer’s impressions are R based on actions, attitude, and appearance. —Erick Roosa

Start by drawing up a customer service mission statement, and keep it in plain sight, Drouin suggests. Then work on standardizing your customer service—decide how you want your customers’ experience to be consistent in all areas: greetings, follow-up calls, and in other areas, and then stick to that plan. Erick Roosa, the training manager at Mohonk Mountain House, gives a great example of how the resort applies these ideas. Mohonk provides employees with a mission statement that commits them to the cardinal aim of creating comfort and contentment for

guests. This statement is supplemented by 14 service steps that employees must apply to help create a memorable and consistent experience for guests, including things like remembering their names and escorting them to their destinations rather than pointing the way. Once you determine what your company’s customer service goals are and what the steps to providing a steady experience will be, Roosa recommends coming up with a way to reinforce those concepts to staff on a regular basis. At Mohonk, one of the 14 service steps is focused on each week during daily staff briefings. The resort developed activities to illustrate the service objectives including role playing, knowledge challenges, and sharing stories where staff observed others applying the steps in real situations. “Now that we see that, we reinforce [service steps] weekly, and we’ve seen our overall guest satisfaction rating rise,” he says. “We just came off of a great month where we broke our previous record at more than 97 percent [satisfaction]. That’s all a credit to our staff.” Applying these ideas to your business is a way to help prevent the negative connotations that can go along with the term customer service. “Customer service isn’t about putting out fires, customer service is about fostering a better relationship,” says Drouin. In Bark’s opinion, there’s no better way to cultivate a relationship than by asking customers for their input—it shows them your business cares about their experience and helps cement loyalty, she says. There

are many ways to do this, from interviewing your your customers one-on-one to survey cards and e-mail questionnaires. But according to Bark, there can be a level of discomfort that accompanies the idea of asking for feedback from customers. If this is the case in your business, she encourages taking “baby steps” when it comes to applying feedback concepts. For example, one of the easiest suggestions she gives is to replace typical cashier rhetoric (“Did you find everything you were looking for?”) with more targeted questions that would yield more useful input (“Is there anything you’d like to see us stocking?”). Simple changes like this can be an eye-opening experience if the only thing between your business’ success and failure is a brand of milk and some microbrews. Bark, Drouin, and Roosa will be joined by Chris Winfield of 10e20, a social media marketing company, at the panel discussion on July 31 to discuss more on customer service in an engaging interactive setting. EMBEDDING A CULTURE OF CUSTOMER SERVICE FOR PROFITABLE GROWTH

Friday, July 31, 9–11 a.m. SUNY New Paltz School of Business, Room 110 van den Berg Hall. Sponsored by the Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz. Reservations required. Complimentary to NPRCoC members; $15 for non-members. 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org

REGIONAL REPORT SUMMER 2009

PICK OF THE TWITTER continued from front cover You and your whuffie One of the most compelling reasons to get your business online is the fact that it may already be there—just not portrayed in the light you would hope. Blogs and customer review sites like Yelp make it easy for people to make both good and bad experiences very public. If you’re not participating in online communities, your business could be missing the opportunity to neutralize negativity and promote positive recognition—thereby building whuffie. A term coined by Cory Doctorow in the book Down and Out in the Magic Kingdom, the word “whuffie” is used in a social media context to represent social capital, says Tara Hunt, author of The Whuffie Factor: Using the Power of Social Networks to Build Your Business. Basically, it’s your online reputation—and it can affect your bottom line. Why is whuffie important? Think of whuffie as a star rating system, similar to what eBay or Amazon displays for their sellers. Would you be more likely to interact with a seller with five stars and 99 percent positive feedback rating, or a three star seller with complaints about late shipments? By becoming part of an online community and engaging its users by being helpful or genuine, you’re more likely to increase your positive feedback and your clout online, and even offline. Instead of blatant promotion, tend to those connections with sincerity and when the opportunity arises to offer your product or service, you’ll have enough whuffie to make the sale. The sizzle and the steak First things first, says Eric Schwartzman, a social media communications strategist who runs a public relations agency in Los Angeles and teaches courses on the topic around the country. Before diving into the world of social media, establish or clean house with your basic online presence—a website—and make sure that it’s up to par before sending traffic to it. “People get excited about the flash and sizzle of Facebook and Twitter and Flickr and YouTube without thinking strategically 12

about their own website and web presence,” he says. “Just as you would clean up your own house before you’d invite people over, it makes a lot of sense to think long and hard about your own website and what the objective of your web presence is before you add on these social media and new media outreach overlays to bring people to your site. What might happen is you may do a really good job leading horses to water, but nobody drinks because there’s no clear cut conversion activity identified on that site.

“You have to follow up, you have to be engaging, and you have to give people a reason to talk to you.” Step one to successful online communications is building a site that is ready to convert awareness and enough traffic into some sort of measurable transaction.” These transactions don’t just have to be counted as some kind of e-commerce transaction, Schwartzman says. It could be a social transaction, like building a relationship, an informational transaction, or the education of a customer base so that they’re better equipped to make a purchase when they do call. Start at square one and figure out what you want people to be doing at your website. After making any necessary tune-ups, work on finding the online platform that your customer base is using, which could also be smaller, niche communities. “If you’re a sustainable green product there’s some amazing sustainable and green communities out there, you don’t have to just be on main networks,” Hunt says. She says sites like Facebook and Twitter are great for small businesses, who usually concentrate sales objectives in a particular area because there are tools that allow you to find people within a certain geography. These sites often offer information about the users they’re reaching

on the pages dedicated to advertising sales, so click on those links to find out what age groups and areas are logging on most. Powering up Once you’ve decided on a platform that will reach your intended audience, content is key. To make your online endeavors the most successful they can be, regularity and authenticity are two of the most crucial factors to consider. “You have to approach online social networking as in person networking,” says Terence P. Ward of the Professional Wordsmith in New Paltz, which provides writing services like blogs and product reviews. “You have to follow up, you have to be engaging, and you have to give people a reason to talk to you. You can’t automate and forget about it or it’s not going to give you any return.” Hunter Mountain is a business that knows the significance of keeping things updated—YouTube videos providing vital weather condition information are updated a few times a week, while Facebook and MySpace pages are updated daily and Twitter posts are made two to three times a day. “The more fresh the content, the more apt your company is to stay in your customers’ minds,” says Jessica Pezak, the communications director. “The more you invest, the more you’ll get out of it, and it costs you nothing but minutes a day.” The other important aspect of social media is authenticity. If a business comes across as less than genuine it can risk rejection by the users of the site— “Get out of our space if you’re not going to be a human being!” Hunt exclaims when talking about Wal-Mart’s efforts at social media (like a blog that was funded by their PR agency, but played off to be real-life). She also warns companies against having content crafted by public relations—the real voice of the business can be lost that way. “If you have someone that manages it, unless they’re able to actually understand how you think and feel, it might not come off as quite as authentic,” says Kathleen

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Packard of KathodeRay Media, Inc. While Packard does help some clients manage their online presence, she encourages them to give real life input, the small tidbits of information that she’d never know and that really grant access to a more personal view of a business or behind-the-scenes information. “We can be business owners and human beings at the same time, and I think that’s a better way of engaging in social media,” Schwartzman says. He recommends thinking of posts as a conversation—rather than thinking about how you’re going to put out an announcement or otherwise promote your business, think about how you can introduce that information in the context of a conversation. “If I were to walk up to a group of people who were having a conversation at a party to give them a monologue about what I was interested in, they’d walk away from me,” he explains. “I have to participate in the conversation that’s currently underway and advance the conversation in a way that’s constructive and meaningful.” Diane Reeder of Queens Galley in Kingston agrees with the idea that you have to make yourself a valuable member of the online community, one that contributes rather than outwardly promotes. “Don’t preach,” she says. “Make the posts interesting and people will want to read them and potentially forward them, giving you viral mileage. Not every post has to be an internet ‘for sale’ sign. Use the medium to explain why you are the best at what you do. The sales will come.” She uses Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter to share information about volunteer opportunities with the soup kitchen and upcoming events. Some local businesses, like BodyMind Massage Therapy of New Paltz, take a fun approach to Facebook. Owner Helen Gutfreund posts quizzes (like the “How well do you know Bodymind Massage Therapy?” quiz) and created the Massagery, an application that allows users to send each other virtual massages and other icons that include BodyMind’s contact information. “It’s a fun application…but is also another tool to keep me in the forefront of peoples’ minds,” says Gutfreund. “Not even so much that they are thinking of me consciously, but

the more places I can be seen, the more the Bodymind Massage Therapy brand works its way into the unconscious, the more likely I am to get more calls.” Gutfreund also collaborates with other Facebook users, like Kathy Combs, the owner of 36 Main Restaurant and Wine Bar in New Paltz. “We’ve announced solely on Facebook and Twitter ‘Massage-a-tini,’ a Thursday night happy hour [that includes a five minute massage and cocktail]. Everyone loves it and I have gotten a number of new clients through the weekly event who I might not have otherwise met.” Encouraging the good, quelling the bad Good online feedback can bolster a business exponentially, while bad feedback does just the opposite. If you find that someone has posted a bad review about your business online, Hunt suggests finding a way to get in touch with the poster. “If you do deserve the negative feedback the best thing to do is to apologize and counteract it by fixing what’s wrong and make sure that the person is thanked for pointing it out,” she says. “Say, ‘Listen, we understand we screwed up and thanks to you we know what to fix.’ That usually turns the biggest critics into the biggest fans.” Getting good feedback can be trickier, because customers who have had a good experience are not as likely to rave about it as much as a customer who has had a bad experience. Hunt suggests simply asking customers to give their thoughts. She

remembers one stay she had at the Drake Hotel in Toronto, where she had an incredible service experience—after forgetting her shoes in her room on the way to an event, the hotel put them in a taxi cab and sent them after her. When she was checking out, the front desk told her the best tip she could leave would be a review on TripAdvisor. Hunt was given a card with the hotel’s TripAdvisor link, which she came across while unpacking at home. Because of this, she was prompted to sit down and write the review. The moral of Hunt’s story is not to be afraid to ask a customer for a review after providing a positive experience. Your Resources There are a number of great resources online for anyone who wants to learn more about how to incorporate social media into their business. Try searching the term on YouTube—not only will you become more familiar with that outlet (where you can post free videos like The Big Cheese in Rosendale, which showcases the store and its offerings) but you’ll find a wealth of videos and slideshows posted by social media professionals that can give a great introduction and offer important insight. The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce is also committed to helping expand your online opportunities, and is presenting a panel discussion at SUNY New Paltz School of Business on September 23 called “Social Networking Works.” To stay updated on this and other chamber events, find them on Facebook and Twitter! REGIONAL REPORT SUMMER 2009

REPORT FROM THE DISNEY INSTITUTE

the magic at work By Kelley Granger Photo by Michael Gold / The Corporate Image

uccess doesn’t just happen when you wish upon a star—even if you work for Disney. “We are a business,” said Mary Flynn, a program facilitator for the Disney Institute. “It’s not the magic that makes it work, it’s the work the makes it magic.” These words helped kick off a day sponsored by the Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz, which brought the Disney Institute’s “Keys to Excellence” program to Mohonk Mountain House on June 16. The day-long presentation included strategies and best practices that more than 130 local attendees could absorb and adapt to their businesses. Flynn and fellow presenter Katie Sanchez, a business programs consultant for Disney, explained the steps along the company’s “chain of excellence,” a business plan that includes leadership excellence, cast (or staff) excellence, guest satisfaction, and financial results and repeat business. A slideshow and video clips were interspersed with group activities and interaction as Flynn and Sanchez kept the mood light with humorous anecdotes and jokes. Michael McCall, the general manager of the Casperkill Golf Club in Poughkeepsie, attended the event after participating in two other abridged versions of the Disney Institute program. “Every time I come away, I take ideas that I can adapt to our organization at a local level,” he said. McCall also brought

three of Casperkill’s employees to the event and recommends that organizations bring co-workers along to be able to “brainstorm and synergize” program content. For Holly Christiana, who will run the new Pay It Forward Center in Kerhonkson when the soup kitchen, food pantry, and clothes closet opens in July, the most important lesson was that business success starts with employee happiness. In what they call the “loyalty profit chain,” Flynn and Sanchez explained that the road to financial success begins with internal service quality and employee satisfaction and retention. Once an organization has achieved this, according to Disney, only then can the other steps, from customer satisfaction and loyalty, to revenue, growth, and profitability, be fulfilled. “The fact that they say the employee is most important, it makes perfect common sense,” said Christiana. “For me, that would apply to my volunteers. [The event] really drove these things home.” Not only is the employee’s happiness a measure of a company’s success potential, but Sanchez and Flynn also stressed that in the Disney model, employees of every level are encouraged to give input. Because of this, Disney has adopted ideas from what they call the “front line,” those individuals that are interacting with customers on a daily basis. The results have ranged from thriving restaurant concepts like the Whispering Canyon Café at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge,

to creating motorized cleaning carts, an idea that was presented and then patented by Disney housekeepers. Davina Vora, an international business professor at SUNY New Paltz School of Business, said the idea of understanding the value and appreciating the input of lower level employees was something she hopes to bring to the college’s classrooms. “Sometimes I think it’s overlooked that they have good ideas that can benefit the organization,” she said. Vora was also intrigued by the way Flynn and Sanchez explained stereotypes ( for example, how Walt Disney World is known as “clean” and also as “expensive”) and how your perception of your company may differ from the way others perceive it. “I liked the notion that reputation was vital to assess, not only so firms recognize their strengths and can continue to deliver and improve on these, but also so that firms can address their weaknesses and thereby improve their reputation and brand image,” Vora said. “This goes back to the notion of asking front-line employees as well as customers for feedback and suggestions on how to improve firm processes and value.” Above all, if there’s one thing that the event underscored, it was the potential of every business to achieve something great. “A vision requires a visionary,” Flynn said while concluding the day. “You can be that visionary.”

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MEMBER UPDATES Prom Fest ’09 Benefits SLCH St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital’s New To You Boutique hosted Prom Fest ’09 to help teenage girls find the perfect dress at an affordable price. More than 200 people attended the event. The event raised over $3,000 for St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital. The New to You Boutique is located at 436 Blooming Grove Turnpike (Route 94) in New Windsor. Donations may be made during regular shop hours, or contact the Boutique at (845) 569-0014. To become an SLCH Community Ambassador, call 845-568-2391 or e-mail Ibaldwin@slchospital.org. SLCH Medical Staff at New Windsor Pediatrics New Windsor Pediatrics held a grand re-opening of its newly renovated facilities on April 19. The facility offers free initial consultations, progressive technology, a play area, as well as extended and emergency hours to accommodate the needs of busy families. Dr. Pedoem-Shapiro is joined in the pediatric practice by Teresa C. Carson, MD, FAAP and Khalid Syed, MD, FAAP; all are on the medical staff of St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital. For more information, call 845-562-2191. New Board Leaders & Members at SLCH St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital announces new board leaders and members. Wilbur Higgins has been named Chairman of the hospital’s Board of Trustees; new members of the Board are Stacey Hawkins and Ellen Smitchger Kelly of Cornwall. James Letterio Jr. has been named Chairman of St. Luke’s Cornwall Health System Foundation; new Foundation board members are Mellany Bagtas, Kevin Bloom, Esq., John Pelella and Justin Sandler. Barbara Mehar has been appointed President of the Auxiliary. New members are Mira Blythe of New Windsor and Bettina Louise Carter of Cornwall-on-Hudson. Incoming and outgoing board volunteers were honored recently at a reception at the Johnes Home, an affiliate of SLCH. SUNY New Paltz School of Business Hall of Fame 2009 Inductees The 2009 inductees into the SUNY New Paltz School of Business Hall of Fame are: Marjorie Rovereto of Ulster Savings, Business Person of the Year; Arnaldo J. Sehwerert of SBDC, Alumnus of the Year; Lauren Guido, Student Leader of the Year; and M&T Bank, Dean’s Award for Excellence. Complete profiles can be reviewed online at

www.newpaltz.edu/schoolofbusiness/ about_halloffame_inductees2009.html. Presenting sponsors were Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation and M&T Bank. Corporate sponsors include Ulster Savings Bank and Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell, CPA, LLP. Business sponsors include Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union. Company sponsors include Alfandre Architecture, Mohonk Mountain House, and Rose & Kiernan, Inc. Online Exhibits at Historic Huguenot Street Historic Huguenot Street has “installed” several new online exhibits, including Before Hudson: 8,000 Years of Native American History and Culture; The Civil War Letters of Johannes LeFevre; Mary Ann Thorne Chadeayne’s Legacy; Education in a Valley Fair (a collaboration between HHS, the Haviland-Heidgerd Historical Collection at the Elting Memorial Library and the Sojourner Truth Library at SUNY New Paltz); and The Civil War Collection of James T. Thitchner. For information or to view HHS’s 2009 calendar, visit www.huguenotstreet.org or call 845-255-1660. Riverside Bank Earns 5-Star Rating BauerFinancial, Inc. announces that Riverside Bank has earned its highest 5-Star Superior rating for financial strength and stability. The rating is based on the overall financial picture of the bank, and a 5-Star rating indicates that Riverside Bank is one of the strongest banks in the nation. For more information, visit www.riversidebankhv.com. New Hires at Historic Huguenot Street Historic Huguenot Street announces the recent hiring of Shari Osborn and Rebecca Mackey. As Education and Programs Coordinator, Osborn will play a key role on HHS’s Public Programs team, overseeing guided tours and educational programs. A Village of New Paltz trustee, Osborn has a graduate degree in history. As Visitor Center Coordinator, Mackey will manage the Museum Shop, the Gallery in the DuBois Fort Visitor Center and related programmatic activities. Mackey served as manager of Earthgoods, and is currently employed part-time at Market Market. She has BAs in history and women’s history. For information about HHS, visit www.huguenotstreet.org or call 845-255-1660.

HOW TO SUBMIT ubmit items of general public S interest; no commercial sales announcements, rates, prices, etc. Items must be received no later than the 15th of Nov., Feb., May, and August to meet the quarterly deadline for the upcoming issue. The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce reserves the right to edit all material. E-mail or fax your information, including company name, address, phone number, contact name, and your newsbrief (100-word maximum) to the Chamber office via at info@newpaltzchamber.org or 845-255-5189.

Chancellor’s Awards for SUNY New Paltz Students Four SUNY New Paltz students received the 2009 Chancellor’s Awards for Student Excellence: journalism student Allison Duarte of New Windsor; childhood education with a concentration in Spanish student Jessica Golian of Roslyn Heights; journalism and public relations student Bexis Matos of the Bronx; and business economics student Benjamin Olsen of Patterson. Students must earn a GPA of 3.77 or higher and record a significant contribution to their campus or local community to be considered for the honor. The Arts Community Offers SeniorArts Classes The Arts Community will present the following SeniorArts classes at the New Paltz Community Center: No Pain Stretching with Jennifer Newell, Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30 – 10 a.m.; Senior Impressionist with Barbara Darbin, Tuesday from 10:45–1:45 a.m.; Easy Dance Moves with Bethany Wootan, Wednesday from 9:30–10:30 a.m.; Acting is Fun! with Joe Paparone, Wednesday from 10:45–11:45 a.m.; and Top 40 for over 60: Singing Popular Standards with Nancy Owen. For more information, visit www.theartscommunity.com call 845417-8593 or e-mail info@theartscommunity.com. The Arts Community Sponsors Just Dance The Arts Community was a proud sponsor of Just Dance on April 26 starring the New Paltz Dance Team and featuring other SUNY New Paltz student organizations including Culture Shock Dance Troupe, Shades Step Team, and many more. Half of all the proceeds for Just REGIONAL REPORT SUMMER 2009

MEMBER UPDATES Dance were donated to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America to fund the research for treatment and, hopefully, a cure for these two chronic autoimmune diseases. Volunteers Sought by The Arts Community The Arts Community is seeking volunteers! By introducing the arts to individuals at a young age and throughout their lifetime, The Arts Community strives to make the world a better, more positive place and ensure that all people can realize their fullest potential. Members of the community who have questions or who are interested in working to support and further work for The Arts Community are encouraged to contact Peggy Paparone at (845) 417-8593, or by e-mail at info@theartscommunity.com. SLCH Monthly Stars St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital is proud to announce Nancy Joyce of Newburgh as its April Star of the Month and Mary Montanye of Clintondale, as its May Star of the Month. An 18-year employee, Joyce is an Environmental Services Coordinator. A five-year employee, Montanye is a Department Secretary for Pre-Admission Testing. St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital employees are nominated for the Star of the Month award by their co-workers, patients, physicians and/or visitors, based on Stellar Service Standards. These standards focus on making customers feel comfortable and important, providing timely and orderly service and improving communication with patients and staff. MVP Health Care Introduces Updated Brand Identity MVP Health Care has introduced an updated brand identity that underscores the company’s commitment to wellness and innovation. MVP subsidiary Preferred Care began operating in April under the MVP Health Care name. MVP also introduced an updated logo that emphasizes the company’s commitment to developing innovative products that emphasize wellness and health promotion. Focus group participants said that the new logo communicates “wellness,” “innovation,” “a road of life,” and a “path to better health.” For more information, visit: www.mvphealthcare.com. SUNY New Paltz Chapter of SHRM Competes at HR Games The SUNY New Paltz student chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the Management Association (MA), 16

recently competed at the 2009 Northeast Regional Student Conference and HR Games held by SHRM at William Paterson University in Wayne, New Jersey. After several months of studying, the team performed well and placed sixth out of the 20 teams participating. For the seventh consecutive year, the Mid-Hudson Human Resources Association (MHHRA) offered a sponsorship for the MA student chapter to attend the conference and games. For more information, e-mail Kristin Backhaus at backhauk@newpaltz.edu or call 845-257-2972. Empire State Bank Awards Grant to SLCH St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital was recently awarded a $1,000 grant from the Empire State Bank, N.A. Endowment Fund to enhance cancer services in the Mid-Hudson Valley. Currently, more than 34 percent of cancer patients in the community travel outside the region to receive treatment. The center will offer integrative services and advanced treatments such as TomoTherapy radiation technology that targets cancer cells and minimizes damage to healthy tissue. The center also will offer enhanced community education and support programs for patients and their families. Pandemic Preparedness Lecture Offered by SLCH As part of its efforts to ensure the health and well-being of Mid-Hudson Valley communities, St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital hosted the free educational lecture “Pandemic Preparedness” for emergency responders and nurses on May 13 in the Cornwall Medical Pavilion. This was the second presentation for emergency responders recently offered by SLCH. Emergency Department physician Mark Fonrose, MD, shared news about Post Cardiac Arrest Syndrome and the latest advances in hypothermia treatment for patients experiencing heart attack. Backyard Organic Vegetable Garden Tour at Phillies Bridge Phillies Bridge Farm Project will hold a Backyard Organic Vegetable Garden Tour on Saturday August 1, rain date Sunday, August 2. Visit 5 local organic home vegetable gardens, including that of garden expert and author, Lee Reich. What better way to get inspired and learn how to grow your own, than to receive a personal tour of several different, well-established, productive gardens? For more information, call (845) 256-9108, email info@philliesbridge.org or visit www.philliesbridge.org.

Freezing and Canning the Harvest at Phillies Bridge Phillies Bridge Farm Project presents “Freezing and Canning the Harvest” on Tuesday, August 11 from 6 – 8 p.m. Learn from expert “food processors” Jim Hyland and Susan Loxley how to preserve the harvest for winter via freezing and canning. Spring Festival Held at Phillies Bridge Phillies Bridge Farm Project held its Spring Festival on June 13, celebrating the start of the harvest season on the farm, featuring food, music, tours, educational workshops and children’s activities. The festival also featured the program “Spring Herbs, Wild Edibles and Wood-Fired Pizzas.” SUNY New Paltz Commencement Ceremony SUNY New Paltz held its May 2009 Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony on May 17. Out of 1,146 candidates, 863 undergraduate candidates participated in the ceremony. SUNY New Paltz Grants 146 Master’s Degrees On Friday, May 15, SUNY New Paltz granted master’s degrees to 146 participating graduate candidates in the Athletic and Wellness Center at the 2009 Graduate Commencement Ceremony. There were a total of 287 graduate candidates for May 2009. New Paltz Joins Art Along the Hudson New Paltz has joined Art Along the Hudson. New Paltz Third Saturday Art Loop will be held on the third Saturday of each month through October. Art Loop partners include the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art at SUNY New Paltz; Historic Huguenot Street; G. Steve Jordan Gallery; Mark Gruber Gallery; Upstate Lights; Van Buren Gallery; Water Street Market; and Celebration of the Arts (COTA). Each Art Loop begins at 4 p.m. Fortieth Anniversary of Depuy Canal House Depuy Canal House alumnus Steven Kolpan won the James Beard Foundation Award for Best Beverage Book of the Year, at a gala event held at Lincoln Center in May. Steven joined the Depuy Canal House on June 13 and 14 to help celebrate its landmark 40th anniversary. For more information or to receive an invitation to future events, e-mail office@depuycanalhouse.com.

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SLCH President’s Breakfast News At the St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital’s Eighth Annual President’s Breakfast on May 7, President and CEO Allan E. Atzrott shared news of accelerated progress on the hospital’s 10–year Master Facilities Plan, outlined new initiatives and urged attendees to speak out for reform that would help ensure New Yorkers continue to have access to the care provided by hospitals and physicians. Both can be viewed on the hospital’s website, www.stlukescornwallhospital.org. Ulster Savings Bank Teaches Children to Save Ulster Savings Bank continues to reach out to local schools and teach children the value of saving money in conjunction with the national “Teach Children to Save” program. Through interactive in-classroom programs, the Bank is providing students with simple, valuable tips on the benefits of prudent savings and spending habits. For more information, visit www.ulstersavings.org. SUNY New Paltz Professor Receives Fulbright Scholar Award Sue Books, professor of secondary education at SUNY New Paltz, will spend the fall 2009 semester in Iceland as part of the Fulbright Scholars Program. She is the 16th New Paltz professor to receive a Fulbright Scholar Award in the last 25 years. SLCHSF Receives HANYS Award The St. Luke’s Cornwall Health System Foundation (SLCHSF) Auxiliary recently earned the Healthcare Association of New York State (HANYS) Auxiliary Advocacy Recognition award. This recognition identifies auxiliaries from across New York State that have excelled in areas of community service and advocacy programs throughout the year. The Auxiliary donated over $150,000 to the hospital Foundation this year for the continued enhancement of hospital facilities and provides scholarships annually to promising high school students. To become a member of the SLCHSF Auxiliary call 845-568-2585, or visit www.stlukescornwallhospital.org.

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SUNY New Paltz Student Receives Fulbright Grant Veronica O’Keefe has been awarded a U.S. Student Fulbright grant to conduct a photography project in China following her May graduation from SUNY New Paltz. O’Keefe will spend 10 months in China working on a project titled “Agricultural Evolution: A Photographic Study of China’s Modern Farms.” The Fulbright U.S. Student Program allows for individually designed study/research or an English Teaching Assistantship, provides grants for study, REGIONAL REPORT SUMMER 2009

MEMBER UPDATES research, or teaching in a single country, facilitates cultural exchange and promotes mutual understanding. Westwood Metes & Bounds Cleans Route 44/55 Westwood Metes & Bounds Realty, Ltd’s New Paltz office team recently joined together for a “Spring Cleaning” in conjunction with the New York State Department of Transportation. the New Paltz office has targeted 2 miles of Route 44/55 in Gardiner for their community involvement. For information, contact Westwood’s New Paltz Office at 845-255-9400 or contact the NYSDOT. SUNY New Paltz Foreign Exchange Programs Funded Banco Santander S.A., signed an agreement to provide SUNY with $1.5 million over the next three years to support four initiatives, including a dual diploma pilot program in economics with SUNY New Paltz and the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Spain (UC3M). These funds will help support a bachelor’s program for UC3M students and for travel grants for faculty and for partial scholarships for SUNY students for study at UC3M. CDPHP Receives Accreditation Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan, Inc. (CDPHP®) announces that it has received Excellent Health Plan Accreditation from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) for its product lines in its Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan, Inc., CDPHP® Universal Benefits,® Inc., (except Medicare Choices PPO), and Capital District Physicians’ Healthcare Network, Inc., affiliates. CDPHP® also obtained full deeming NCQA status for its Medicare HMO, Medicare Choices. CRREO Releases Jail Study The Center for Research, Regional Education and Outreach released the discussion brief “A Collaborative, Regional Approach to Jailing in the Hudson Valley.” The study suggests that there is enough jail capacity in the eight Hudson Valley counties considered in the study to meet current and future needs. This brief is a part of an ongoing project to consider regional approaches to jailing in collaboration with Pattern for Progress and the Orange, Sullivan, and Ulster County governments. It is the second of several papers on a variety of other issues that CRREO believes will help citizens and policy makers make informed decisions. For more information visit www.newpaltz.edu/crreo. 18

John Novi Represents Ulster County at James Beard House

SLCH Offers Community Ambassador Program

Ulster County Tourism nominated John Novi of the Depuy Canal House to represent Ulster County at the Taste of New York State Luncheon at the James Beard House on May 21. For more information about Depuy Canal House, visit www.depuycanalhouse.net.

The Community Ambassador Program at St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital (SLCH) offers those in search of work opportunities to make strong connections in the health care industry, while being productive and putting valuable skills to work. Ambassadors include working professionals, retirees and students who share a strong desire to help their friends, neighbors and community hospital. Opportunities are being developed and tailored for persons with diverse talents and interests. To learn more call 845-568-2391, e-mail lbaldwin@slchospital.org or visit www.stlukescornwallhospital.org and click on the Careers and Volunteers link.

New Board Members at CDPHP Bruce E. Coplin, MD, and William P. Phelan were recently elected to four-year terms as members of the board of directors for Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan, Inc. (CDPHP®). The 15-member board comprised of eight community physicians and seven business leaders is led by chairman, Peter T. Burkart, MD, and vice chairman, Gennaro Daniels, MD. As a physicianfounded and guided not-for-profit health plan, the board of directors plays an integral role in the direction of the organization. Visit CDPHP at www.cdphp.com. Bikes That Heal Gifted by Ulster Savings Bank Ulster Savings Bank announced a $1,000 donation to Bikes that Heal, a non-profit corporation based in New Paltz, for new bicycle and bicycle rack purchases. Bikes that Heal promotes awareness about and raises funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in an effort to find cures for blood cancers. Bike rental sites are located throughout the New Paltz community and residents or visitors are invited to borrow bicycles for recreation or errands. A suggested donation of $1.00 is asked for each rental. Home Grown Exhibit at Mark Gruber Gallery Home Grown: Botanicals, Florals, Edibles, and Gardens, a group show at the Mark Gruber Gallery, opened on May 30 and runs through July 15, 2009, featuring Sharon Vairamides (new to the gallery), Jim Cramer and Robin Gutheridge. The green thumbs of Paul Abrams, Mireille Duchesne, Gayle Fedigan, John Varriano, Danielle Wexler and Marlene Weidenbaum, among others, glow brightly as these artists tend the gardens of their rich and fertile talents. The Mark Gruber Gallery is located in the New Paltz Plaza. For more information, call 845-255-1241. New Hours at 36 Main 36 Main Restaurant and Wine Bar is now serving lunch Wednesday through Sunday, 12 noon–3 p.m. For those who enjoy al fresco dining, the patio is in full bloom and looks gorgeous. For more information, call 845-255-3636.

Tour de Paltz at Historic Huguenot Street Historic Huguenot Street capped off National Bike Month with a special bike tour: From the Street to the Lawn: A Tour de Paltz. Starting from Historic Huguenot Street in downtown New Paltz, riders biked to Locust Lawn, where riders were treated to a tour and refreshments, then returned to Historic Huguenot Street on some of very same roads that the Terwilligers and Hasbroucks traveled some 200 years ago. For more information about Historic Huguenot Street, visit www. huguenotstreet.org or call 845-255-1660. Teaching Shakespeare Conference at SUNY New Paltz Education professionals from across the Hudson Valley gathered at SUNY New Paltz on May 30 for the conference “Bettering the Instruction: Teaching and Enjoying Shakespeare in the Secondary Classroom,” featuring workshops taught by expert teachers from local school districts and by faculty from SUNY New Paltz, as well as Christopher V. Edwards of the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival and student performers from Newburgh Free Academy. Art & the River at the Samuel Dorsky Museum The Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art at SUNY New Paltz presents the Art & the River project to coincide with New York State’s Hudson 400 celebrations. The headliner exhibition, The Hudson River to Niagara Falls: 19th Century American Landscape Paintings from the NewYork Historical Society, presents 45 landscape paintings by Hudson River School artists. The exhibit opens July 11 and will appear only at The Dorsky Museum. Four additional shows feature contemporary presentations of the Hudson River and environs. The Dorsky Museum will also

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host an academic symposium titled Revisiting the Hudson: Nineteenth-Century Landscape Painting in Context, on November 7. For more information, visit www.newpaltz.edu/museum. Irene Berner to Run NYC Marathon to Benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Irene Berner, CFP, of Berner Financial Services has teamed up with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training to run in the New York City Marathon on Sunday, November 1. Irene’s participation will raise funds to help find a cure for leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and other blood cancers. Please call Irene at 845-471-2872 with encouragement, and visit http://pages.teamintraining. org/vtnt/nyc09/iberner to make a tax-deductible donation supporting this important cause. Ladies Night Out at the Uptown Attic On Thursdays each month, Uptown Attic hosts a monthly “Ladies Night Out” from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. The evening features tastes and drinks from local area favorites, including in-store specials exclusively for that evening. Come and enjoy a few hours of great shopping, good food and fun conversation! Upcoming “Ladies Night Out” Thursdays are July 23, Aug. 20 & Sept. 17. Uptown Attic is located at 133 Main St., Gardiner. For more information, visit uptownattic.net or call 845-255-0093. Sunday Morning Flea Market Organized by On the Hill Antiques in Skilly Pot Antique Center “The Sunday Morning Flea Market” is open through September in The Trolley Museum on Kingston’s Rondout Waterfront. Proceeds from the table rentals benefit the not-for-profit Rondout Business Association (RBA) to help fund family events that have been cancelled due to the City of Kingston’s scaled back fiscal budget. The RBA needs to raise nearly $6,000 for the Taste of Italy food festival on October 12. Contact Sue Schreter at 845-338-6679, On the Hill Antiques in Skilly Pot Antique Center, 41 Broadway, Kingston. Bruce Sillner Receives Marita Houlihan Award Bruce Sillner, dean of the Center for International Programs at SUNY New Paltz, has been awarded the Marita Houlihan Award for Distinguished Contributions to the Field of International Education from the National Association of Foreign Student Affairs. The Center provides services to more than 600 international students and scholars—the largest international student population of the SUNY university colleges. SUNY New Paltz is the only institution to have twice received this distinction. REGIONAL REPORT SUMMER 2009

Kimlin Propane

Take a bite out of life.

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Gardiner, NY Serving Ulster, Dutchess, and beyond

Arts, Culture, and Spirit in the Hudson Valley

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3 Cherry Hill Road, New Paltz: 845.255.2070 At Performance Sports & Wellness with  Dr. David Ness, Sports Chiropractor  Dorothy Hamburg, M.S., Sports Physiologist Manhattan / Chelsea: 212.695.3565 www.mhacu.com

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THE BOTTOM LINE LEGISLATION AND NEWS THAT AFFECTS YOUR BUSINESS Compiled by Kelley Granger

sector jobs were lost in the state. The construction industry took the biggest hit, with a decline of 7.2 percent, while educational and health services was the only trade group not in the red, having a job growth of 2.1 percent. All things considered, MidHudson job losses were mild at 1.7 percent, while areas like Buffalo-Niagara Falls and New York ranked a 2.5 and 2.4 percent loss, respectively.

A lot less bloated Economic conditions and job losses have been a factor in a lowered demand for fuel, and in response, the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries has tried to cap production to up demand and avoid a further plunge in prices at the pump. But although a seasonal spike may occur, the Energy Information Administration predicts that gas prices will not soar to the levels they did during the summer of 2008, when the state average hit a crippling $4.31 a gallon in July and crude oil topped $140 a barrel.

Consolidation, consolidation, consolidation The Andrew Cuomo-backed New York Government Reorganization and Citizen Empowerment Act, which proposes to consolidate and dissolve certain government bodies, was passed on June 1. Many hope the restructuring will enable what the bill promises—a reduction in property taxes, an increase in state savings, and an enhancement in the delivery of local government services. Opponents are skeptical of the actual savings. Meanwhile, the Business Council of New York State has been busy promoting the bill and other measures of fiscal restraint, such as state spending limits, public pension changes, and caps on property taxes. Some critics of the caps, like Frank Mauro of the Fiscal Policy Institute, say that capping property taxes shifts expenses like those for education to the state level, where they’d then collide with the state spending limit. “So it’s patently inconsistent to recommend both a cap on property taxes and a state spending cap,” he told the Albany Times Union. But Kenneth Adams, president and CEO of the Business Council of New York State says, “All of these reforms would significantly reduce the cost of government in New York State and put us on a path to economic success. These reforms would make New York affordable and competitive.”

Employee Free Choice Act

State budget blunders State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli has been outspoken in his disapproval of the state budget, saying that New Yorkers should expect a three-year budget deficit of at least $25 billion due to a budget that spends and taxes too much. “This was a difficult budget, New Yorkers get that,” he says. “But this budget falls short of what New York desperately needs. This is a buytime budget; tough decisions on spending have been postponed.” DiNapoli is recommending a series of reforms that include changing the start of the fiscal year to July 1 to allow more time for public input and decision making; developing a debt cap for the state; and requiring the legislature to hold public conference committees to provide the public with greater information during the budget process, among other points. DiNapoli’s suggestions also include planning setting aside money during good periods, increasing pay-as-you-go spending and raising the cap on the Rainy Day reserve fund from 3 percent to 5 percent.

Counting losses According to the latest information provided by the Public Policy Institute of New York State, private sector jobs from April 2008 to April 2009 are down by 2.5 percent. During those 12 months, 180,000 private

In March, the controversial Employee Free Choice Act of 2009 was introduced to the Senate and the House. According to OpenCongress.com, a nonprofit website dedicated to greater transparency in government, the legislation seeks to allow workers to decide whether to hold a secret ballot vote on union formation after a majority of employees have signed union authorization cards, or to have the union certified based on the cards alone. Right now, employers have the authority to decide. Other features of the bill include a timeline for first contracts to be drawn up between unions and employees. If no agreement is made within 120 days, an arbitration panel will dole out a decision that will be enforced for two years. Under the legislation, employers would also be subject to increased fines if they are found guilty of violating the employee right to unionize. The Business Council of New York State and the Friends of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce oppose the act, saying that it undermines long-standing principles of workplace democracy and fairness and results in employees having less ability to determine if they wish to be represented by a union. President Obama has expressed his support for the bill, but said in mid May he thought it was unlikely to pass the Senate and would require an overhaul to make it through Congress. A Senate vote is expected sometime this summer. REGIONAL REPORT SUMMER 2009

Lauren Thomas

ERRATA These listings were accidentally omitted from the printed 2009/2010 Membership Directory. They are included below.

Alphabetical Wright’s Farm 699 Rt 208 Gardiner, NY 12525 (845) 255-5300 fax (845) 255-5301 Contact: Tammy Boylan E-mail: tammy@eatapples.com Website: www.eatapples.com Farm Markets Wyld Acres 60 DuBois Road New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-5896 Contact: Erica Chase-Salerno E-mail: erica@wyldacres.com Website: www.wyldacres.com Healing Arts Yanni Restaurant Cafe 51 Main Street New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 256-0988 Contact: Kyriakos Katehis Restaurants Yaun Co. Inc. 135 N. Chestnut St. New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 256-6400 fax (845) 256-0400 Contact: Ray Lukas E-mail: ray@yaunco.com Website: www.yaunco.com Wholesaler – Plumbing, HVAC & Electric

EVENT SPOTLIGHT

something big is cooking BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE TASTE OF NEW PALTZ By Kelley Granger

n September 13, the Taste of New Paltz will take over the Ulster County Fairgrounds. For 19 years, the annual event attracts thousands of visitors from the local region and surrounding states. Though most known for the tempting bites offered by a number of neighborhood restaurants, the event also entertains with a showing of photography and paintings by local artists; a business expo that offers raffles and giveaways; a wellness and recreation area that features massage, chiropractic, and exercise demonstrations; a newly expanded kids expo; and live music on the center stage. For an event as big as this one, a lot of planning is required—and no one knows that better than Taste of New Paltz co-chairs Christy Drouin of Christy Drouin Personal Training and Kathy Combs of 36 Main. Tell me about the organizational aspects of the Taste of New Paltz—what goes into this to pull it off every year? Drouin: Even before the event takes place, we have plans for the following year. We have to have the dates set because we start promoting it at the [current] Taste of New Paltz. So marketing-wise it starts very quickly. If there are no major changes, we make sure all the previous people are on board for working their areas and if not, we work on finding people. It’s all volunteers, other than the Chamber staff. Combs: Taste of New Paltz is broken into different departments and there’s a chair of each of those departments—restaurants, safety, parking, arts and crafts, volunteers,

and marketing. All of the department chairs start meeting in June. What has been one of the biggest challenges you’ve had to work out while organizing the event? Drouin: It’s what I say really runs it—finding enough volunteers for the event. Especially when it comes to set-up and break-down of the event, that was a serious challenge last year and I ended up doing a lot of the physical labor. In your opinion, what is the most impressive aspect of the Taste of New Paltz? Combs: I would honestly have to say that the day of the event is just spectacular because it really brings all the businesses together. Typically, from the restaurant perspective, there are 30 restaurants and wineries that participate and for the other 364 days of the year, these restaurants are in competition— although it is friendly competition. But that day, if someone runs out of napkins or paper goods or needs a wrench to tighten a propane tank, everyone is pitching in together and the camaraderie is just really outstanding. What part of the event are you most looking forward to this year? Combs: The whole event itself is really nice to just taste food and enjoy new wines. It’s a very social event. You get 9,000 people there but you get a lot of locals and you’ll see people you haven’t seen in months. Drouin: Being eight-and-a-half-months pregnant this year, I’m looking forward to not running around that much!

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Ernie VanDerMark

ERRATA YMCA of Southeast Ulster 257 Main Street New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-2107 / fax (845) 256-0327 Contact: Lee Anne Albritton E-mail: lalbritton@ymcaulster.org Website: www.ymcaulster.org Service Organizations

EVENT SPOTLIGHT

Everything’s Coming Up Roses THE SIXTH ANNUAL NEW PALTZ REGIONAL GARDEN TOUR By Kelley Granger

here could be stunning displays of hydrangea, gardenia, or freesia to behold at public and private gardens in the area, though as usual, “mum” is the word on the sights to be seen at this year’s New Paltz Regional Garden Tour. If the anticipation is too much to take, Walter Marquez, owner of Water Street Market’s Antiques Barn and chair of the event, was able to reveal one significant location hint— the sixth installation of the event will honor the Hudson Quadricentennial—the celebration marking the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s voyage—by presenting some of the loveliest riverside gardens in the area. “We’re focusing more toward the Highland area and the river, seeing that it’s the Quadricentennial, to tie into the whole event that’s happening all year,” Marquez says. On Sunday, July 12, ticket holders will be able to pick up a program at the office of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce that will contain a map and descriptions of the gardens on the tour. From there, participants can tour more than half a dozen spectacular regional gardens at their own pace between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. “I can tell you, based on last year’s [event], that we had some amazing gardens,” Marquez says. “People were floored by a few of them.” As the grand finale to a day of flowery fun, visi-

tors are invited to a catered reception to be held at the grounds of Headless Horseman Haunted Houses and Hayrides, which is set on 45 acres of woods, ponds, and fruit orchards. Look forward to a treat: “Headless Horseman has done it in the past and they put out quite a spread,” Marquez says. Not only is the event a thoroughly enjoyable day outdoors, but the proceeds benefit the community in a number of ways. Produced by the Garden Tour Committee of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz, funds raised by the tour go toward the Foundation’s Business Education Scholarship Fund. Proceeds also support the beautification efforts of the Community Improvement Team, which organizes and participates in projects ranging from Adopt a Highway to maintaining the hanging flower baskets on Main Street. Tickets can be purchased for $25 in advance and for $30 on the day of the tour from the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce’s office, located at 124 Main St., Suite 8, New Paltz. Advance tickets can also be purchased at a number of locations, including Handmade and More and the Antiques Barn in New Paltz and Enthusiastic Spirits and Wine in Gardiner.

Your Day Wedding Photography 11 River Park Drive New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 256-1896 / fax (845) 256-1895 Contact: Denise Edkins E-mail: denise@yourdayphoto.com Photographers Yussel’s Place Judaic Art & Gift Gallery 59 Merrick Avenue Merrick, NY 11566 (516) 223-7050 Contact: Michael and Debbie Freiser E-mail: yusselsp@aol.com Website: www.yusselsplace.com Judaica Gifts Zale Stevens Inc. 6 Bone Hollow Road Accord, NY 12404 (845) 687-9649 / fax (845) 687-9358 Contact: Janine Carchidi E-mail: zstitle15@earthlink.net Website: www.zalestevenstitle@citymax.com Title Companies and Agents Categorical Yarn Knit and Be Happy Yoga Centers Jai Ma Yoga Center The Living Seed

REGIONAL REPORT SUMMER 2009

MEMBER PROFILES Outdoor Recreation By Kelley Granger The New Paltz region is renowned for its natural beauty—mountains, lakes, rivers, and more make it quite a vision for the many visitors drawn to the area every year. Luckily, there are many local businesses that cater their services toward making the most of the natural surroundings, and outdoor recreation and outfitters abound. At the heart of these businesses is a mission to make a change for the better—teaching people new skills, helping them maintain healthy, active lifestyles, promoting alternative transportation, heightening awareness of the fragility of our environment, and passing on the passion to preserve it. With the summer season upon us, there’s no better time to get acquainted with their offerings.

MEMBER PROFILE

The River Connection M

arshall Seddon’s river connection began around age five, when he would paddle the water as a means to fish. “The paddling was just a mechanism to get to places to go fishing,” Seddon says. As he grew older and started navigating tougher water conditions to get to prime fishing locations, he began to realize he was having more fun rowing than fishing. This led to a new interest and a career path, which he began as an instructor working for a number of outfitters. This led to a connection of a different kind—a romantic one—when he met his future wife when she came to him for lessons on the water. Now the couple are married and are both certified instructors with the American Canoe Association (ACA), and have been running a retail and instruction operation from their Hyde Park location for the past five years. 24

“First and foremost we teach, we do not simply just sell stuff,” Seddon says. “We’re passionate about the sport and proficient in what we do as far as the sport of kayaking and teaching it. We put a tremendous amount of people on the water for their first experience year after year and for that we’ve been recognized by the ACA as one of [their chosen six Pro Schools] in the country.” The River Connection recently began a new program where the company brings in guest instructors that are “kayaking rock stars,” as Seddon puts it. They expect to have Karen Knight, a “legend” in kayaking and canoeing, as well as Bob Foote and Ben Lawry, to lead the River Connection’s PowerUp Symposium at the end of July. Details will be posted at the River Connection’s website. The River Connection is also active in the community in a myriad of ways, such as

organizing introductions to kayaking for local church and community organizations and arranging other outreach programs. Seddon says that people often ask if he tires of teaching people the basics, but he says it couldn’t be further from the truth. “When you’re working with people that are just getting into something, you get to relive their ‘aha!’ moments,” he explains. “They’re rediscovering how to go out and go play and enjoying themselves in perhaps a fashion they haven’t in ages. We get to rediscover the fun and joy of it through others’ experiences.” THE RIVER CONNECTION 9 West Market Street Hyde Park, NY 12538 845-229-0595 www.the-river-connection.com

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MEMBER RENEWALS Accent Financial Group Adventure-Junction.com Alan Goodman Associates Alpine Endeavors Altren Consulting & Contracting, Inc. Anthony J. Angiolillo, DDS Apple Bin Farm Market Apple Greens Golf Course Arcady Tractorworks & Arborculture Arnoff Moving and Storage Artco’s Copy Hut Associated Abbey Carpet and Floor AT&T MEMBER PROFILE

Adventure Junction

Babba Louies Bank of America Benjamin D. Reed Carpentry Beso Bill Kay

unter Spilhaus has always been into adventure, a pursuit that began in his native South Africa, where he worked for canoeing and rafting outfitters, and extended to travels abroad. While on one adventure event in New Zealand, Spilhaus met an American woman from the U.S. equestrian team who was originally from Newburgh. They eventually married, and this brought Spilhaus to the Hudson Valley, where he spent time exploring all the Shawangunks have to offer. About two years ago he registered Adventure Junction as a business—the culmination of many years of concept work that began back in South Africa. The idea was simple, but not many have attempted it—one business that connects all the adventures an area has to offer, from water sports to rock climbing, cycling, and beyond. Now, just a couple of years later, Spilhaus has partnered with Kathleen Packard of KathodeRay Media to re-launch a new and improved version of the business that will begin with Hudson Valley adventures and eventually move to other regions inside and outside the country, all while incorporating a responsible stance concerning the environment. The goal is to provide

Blueberry Inn on Kiernan Farm, Inc. an online portal where users can quickly and easily find and book excursions, taking care of everything from gear rentals to accommodations and food. Spilhaus also sees the re-launch of Adventure Junction as an opportunity to help smaller outfitters get more exposure and more business, helping to support the local community. He’s looking for businesses that are interested in being a part of Adventure Junction, and is offering a free directory listing for anyone willing to also put a link back to his site. Spilhaus says the word “adventure” is not meant to be restrictive to recreation other than outdoor athletic pursuits—eventually, he envisions a site that offers art or culinary adventures, too. “We want this to be the most comprehensive search tool the Hudson Valley has to offer, no limitations,” he says. “We’d like to speak to [businesses] and find a way of incorporating them into the site.”

Bridge Creek Catering Catskill Mountain House Chestnut Petroleum Distributor, Inc. Clinton Properties, LLC Coldwell Banker Currier & Lazier Realtors‑Geraldine Buck Country Charm Farm & Antiques Creek Locks Bed & Breakfast Daily Freeman Depuy Canal House & Inn Dog Love Dr. David Ness, Certified Sports Chiropractor Edible Arrangements Elsie’s Place Emerson Resort & Spa Enthusiastic Spirits and Wine Shop Erdman Anthony & Associates, Inc. Essence Medispa Excel Auto Glass Corporation

ADVENTURE JUNCTION 1188 Albany Post Road Gardiner, NY 12525 845-256-8073 www.adventure-junction.com

Fox Insurance Agency Frank Guido’s Little Italy Fra-Sha Kennels Frost Valley YMCA

REGIONAL REPORT SUMMER 2009

Laszlo Andacs

MEMBER RENEWALS Garden Cathay Catering/Golf Outings Gateway Community Industries, Inc. Gerlach Meats, LLC Gilded Otter Brewing Company Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson Gordon Fire Equipment LLC Grandview Hess Express Historic Huguenot Street Honor’s Haven Resort & Spa Hudson River Adventures

MEMBER PROFILE

Hudson River Cruises

Freefall Express

Hudson Valley Abstract Hudson Valley Lodging Association

DBA The Blue Sky Ranch

Hudson Valley Traveler Hudson Valley Water Resources, Inc. Hurd’s Family Farm Idiverp Corporation Imperial Jewelers In Good Taste Integrated Feeling Therapy, Inc. Jane Palcic Schunk Real Estate Joe’s East-West Joey’s Taxi & Transportation John H. Dippel, Land Surveyor Karma Road Vegetarian Deli KIC Chemicals Inc. Mariner’s Harbor MHV Federal Credit Union Minard Farms Mohonk Preserve Neko Sushi & Restaurant New Global Marketing, Inc. New Paltz Animal Hospital New Paltz Bagel Café New Paltz Fire Department New Paltz Imaging New Paltz Rescue Squad New Paltz Taxi New Paltz Times Newburgh/NYC North KOA Oakwood Friends School Olympix Corp.

he Blue Sky Ranch is high-flying fun—at about 13,500 feet, that is. Kay Hoiby feels grateful to call the Ranch her career, where she’s constantly surrounded by people that share a common, exhilarating interest—skydiving. She and her partners, brothers Bill and Joe Richards, all met because of that hobby and now because of their shared passion, The Blue Sky Ranch hosts more than 7,000 first-time and tandem jumpers per year, and has a steady base of experienced divers about 500 strong each year. “We have a lot of fun customers, skydivers are usually fun, interesting people,” says Hoiby. “You’re always laughing, skydivers are pretty comical.” Skydive The Ranch is the skydiving education component of the facility, which offers different levels of training from the first jumps with instructors to solo jumps. Freefall Express operates as the corporate ownership of the fleet of airplanes, which includes Twin Otters, a Cessna 182, a Bell helicopter, and more. The Blue Sky Ranch is a resource for every level of skydiver, from novice to experienced, and often hosts workshops on areas of specialization. “We have different camps where we bring coaches in from different areas, who specialize in certain areas of the sport, like parachute flying,” Hoiby says. These coaches will come in to instruct on more advanced levels of

the sport, or to introduce new things, like wingsuit flying with Birdman gear; The Blue Sky Ranch plans to bring in someone to demonstrate the suits, which allow the users to cruise through the sky before opening up their parachutes. As with any business, the Ranch has its own set of challenges—over the past year, fuel prices have had a significant impact during tough economic times. “The cost of insurance and the cost of fuel, it was killer last year,” says Hoiby. “You don’t know how high you can make your prices before you start losing people.” Though she says the facility did take a bit of a hit last year, it managed to make it through and is aiming high for the future. With a reputation as one of the premiere skydiving facilities in the area, and a strong tie with the community (it recently held a “Barn-raising Boogie” and raised more than $20,000 to assist a neighbor in rebuilding a fire-devastated barn), it’s not going anywhere—except to altitude. FREEFALL EXPRESS, DBA THE BLUE SKY RANCH 45 Sand Hill Road Gardiner, NY 12525 845-255-9538 www.theblueskyranch.com

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MEMBER RENEWALS

MEMBER PROFILE

THE BICYCLE RACK I

f you check out the Bicycle Rack’s website and look up the original owner’s profile, you’ll see Alan Stout has quoted John Burroughs on his staff page: “When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.” With this thought in mind, Stout is probably thrilled that the man that took over his store after a solid 30-year run is just as passionate about promoting bicycling as a way to reduce our reliance on fossil fuel and encourage healthy, fun activity. Meet Mike Kilmer, who was a former full-time employee of the shop. Kilmer’s own love of cycling began after purchasing a Fuji Sagres in 1984 and putting thousands of miles on it. In 1988, he rode more than 16,000 miles, and was participating in cycling events like NYRATS (New York Ride Across the State), in which bicyclers ride from Buffalo to New York City in 10 days. After about 13 years of service at the Bicycle Rack, Kilmer took the helm in 2004.

“I did not change anything,” he says of taking ownership of the shop, which stocks anywhere from 150-300 bikes at a time. “I felt if [Alan Stout] had a business that the community supported and was viable and worked for 30 years, it’s not my position to come in and change anything.” It’s Stout’s original vision of a community bike shop that offers personal service, fair prices, and honesty that Kilmer is committed to continuing to implement. “We provide a lot of personal service,” he says. “We don’t sell customers what we want to sell them, we sell what they want to buy. If they come in and ask a question, we don’t just try to unload the product we have, we try to give an honest answer.” THE BICYCLE RACK 13 N. Front Street New Paltz, NY 12561 845-255-1770 www.thebicyclerack.com

Optimize Web Organized & Clutter-free Pasquale’s Pizza PC Solutions of NY PDQ Business Printers Planet Pet Grooming Plaza Diner Quiet Mountain Sanctuary Rachel’s Cleaning Service Royal King Cleaners Ruder Finn Print Sam’s Club Saunderskill Farms Shop Rite Supermarket Sprague & Killeen, Inc. St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital Center for Rehabilitation Staff-Line, Inc. Stoneledge Contracting, Inc. Sunoco Aplus Mini Market Suruchi - A Fine Taste of India Susan Ivy Designs Teresa Horgan Photography The Bakery The Gold Fox Restaurant Tom’s Repair Shop, Inc. ToTel-Net Logistics Town & Country Coundominiums Trapps Builders, Inc. Twice Blessed Thrift Shop Ulster County Agricultural Society/ Ulster County Fair Vicki Koenig, MS, RD, CDN Whispering Pines Bed and Breakfast Wiltwyck Golf Club Win Morrison Realty Wireless Zone Withworth Woodstock/New Paltz Art & Crafts Fair

Members who renewed between

February 16 and May 15.

REGIONAL REPORT SUMMER 2009

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

LETS MAKE A DIFFERENCE TOGETHER A strong business community benefits the whole community. In this issue, Membership Director Cathy Hyland explores the human side of connecting with and through the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce.

hank you to all the satisfied members of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce who have renewed or are planning to renew your memberships. We are here for you, and because of you. We love what we do to support and promote each of our members and their employees. After all, we are the original Social Network! One way to grow your network through your Chamber membership is to represent your business at New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce After-Hours Mixers, Business Luncheons, Business Card Exchanges and other events organized and publicized by the Chamber. Our events emphasize relationship initiation, often between strangers. While this type of networking is possible online via social and business networking sites, it is not the primary practice of many of them. What makes these social and business networking sites unique is not the facilitation of communication between strangers, but rather communication with people who are already a part of one another’s extended social network. 28

As a member of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce, you are vitally linked to people and organizations that truly care, but who you may not already know. We promote and practice the Think Local concept. The people who shop, dine, live, work, and play in your community and the Hudson Valley region are the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce’s established social and business network. We are your true resource for business development through relationship building. Take advantage of your original Social Network—the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce—and its tech-savvy employees, who are continually thinking about how to help increase your visibility and profitability. Remember, people buy people. A face-to-face introduction and the resulting relationship will never go out of style.

M. Catherine Hyland Membership Director

SOME EXAMPLES OF NETWORKING SUCCESS BETWEEN OUR MEMBERS A Carpenter and an Electrician met at a New Member Breakfast and continue to have a mutually beneficial business relationship working on each other’s projects. A Caterer and a Nutritionist met at a Business After-Hour’s Mixer. The Caterer was contracted for a birthday party serving 75! A Medical Illustrator/Equine Specialist was introduced to a community leader in the Equine Industry and was hired to teach classes. A Restaurateur was introduced to a Business Broker that made the licensing process more understandable and efficient. A Bed & Breakfast innkeeper developed a relationship with a Caterer to do weddings at the B&B.

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REGIONAL REPORT SUMMER 2009

OUR CORPORATE PARTNERS OUR CORPORATE PARTNERS, at the highest level of membership, play an exclusive and vital role in the important work of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce. As a premier member at the corporate partner level, they enjoy the advantage of exceptionally valuable benefits, in addition to those included in the standard NPRCoC membership. Exclusive opportunities to deliver your message to over 30,000 public event attendees, over 800 active Chamber members, and countless Hudson Valley residents, including a full 12 months of visibility in every Chamber publication, communication, and event. Customized personal service from the Chamber’s expert staff, including communications designed exclusively to keep you informed. We invite you to choose from four elite Corporate Partner membership categories: Principal, Leading, Associates, and Supporting.

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2009 CORPORATE PARTNERS ASSOCIATE PARTNER

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REGIONAL REPORT SUMMER 2009

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