New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce Regional Report, Fall 2010 by Chronogram

COMMUNITY

BUS I NES S

EDUCATION

NEW PALTZ

REGIONAL

CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE

TOURISM

REGIONAL

REPORT

FALL 2010

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

TECHNOLOGICALLY SOPHISTICATED

IN THIS ISSUE

Harmony After Hiring

Wining & Dining Your Business Clients

The Evolution and Impact of Technology on Business By Kelley Granger

t’s hard to imagine how business would be run today without the technology we’ve come to rely on and expect. Imagine communication without high-speed Internet, e-mailing, or Skype. Imagine still being tied to a landline instead of being able to rove the globe and have contacts, applications, data, and an almost infinite array of information at your fingertips. Imagine business the way it was before the explosion of social networks and the endless potential for connection that they inherently present. There is no way to measure the breadth of change that the evolution of technology has brought to the business world—but we can analyze it and determine how we’ll respond. Continued on p. 12

Employee relations experts on how to preserve morale and maintain a productive work environment

Tom Edwards of Fox & Hound offers wine ordering tips.

Member Profiles: Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz Downtown Business Association, Shawangunk Wine Trail, Paws of Distinction

257 MAIN ST. NEW PALTZ, NY 12561 P 845 255 0243 F 845 255 5189 E INFO@NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG

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bonus was that the employees who work under those lights got a whole new perspective on their work. “We knew the lighting would be better, but not this much better,” said Christopher Gavin, General Manager of Hudson Valley Volvo and Hudson Valley Volkswagen. “The results were phenomenal.” Gavin and Maintenance Manager Tom Kriz worked with Positive Energy Services, a SavingsCentral Trade Ally, to upgrade lighting in the service departments. “There is more light, and I noticed that our technicians started keeping their work areas cleaner because they could see everything,” Kriz said. “The quality of light is unbelievable.” longer had to wait 15 minutes each morning while the lights warmed up, and the occupancy sensors in the parts room turned lights off automatically to save energy when the room was not used. Gavin was so impressed with the results, he asked Positive Energy Services to replace the outdoor lights. In addition to saving on electric bills and providing better illumination for vehicles, this will save maintenance costs because the new bulbs have to be replaced much less frequently.

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Letter from JOYCE MINARD Michael Gold / The Corporate Image

A recap of the fabulous events of 2010— from the Pot-O-Gold Raffle to the 20th anniversary of the Taste of New Paltz.

Need More Space?

t’s hard to believe that soon we’ll be saying sayonara to 2010 and konnichiwa to 2011. As we enter the last quarter of the year, I’m proud of the special events presented by the Chamber and the Foundation, headed by troops of dedicated volunteers. The Chamber started things off last winter with the Pot-O-Gold Raffle, held at the February After-Hours Mixer at Rocking Horse Ranch. The mixer was postponed due to “the blizzard of 2010,” but $10,000 winners Leslie and Rick Wohlrab didn’t seem to mind. The Pot-O-Gold Raffle was quickly followed in early March by the Foundation’s 2nd Annual Progressive Dinner, where attendees warmed up a winter’s night at some of High Falls’ best restaurants: High Falls Café, Depuy Canal House, and Northern Spy Café. In April, we celebrated two of our biggest annual events on the same day: The 24th Annual New Paltz Clean Sweep and the 4th Annual April Gathering Casino Night at Mohonk Mountain House. Clean Sweep enjoyed glorious weather and a huge turnout to help give New Paltz a fresh spring cleaning. The 4th Annual April Gathering was a hit with attendees who came to nosh on lavish hors d’oeuvres while hitting the gaming tables. June brought the Foundation’s 25th Annual Golf Outing at Apple Greens Golf Course and the Chamber’s 1st Annual New Paltz Challenge Half Marathon and Family 5K. Both events helped raise critical funds for Foundation scholarships, which were also presented in June. Our 2010 $1,000 scholarship winners were Nikki Koenig Nielson of Arcady Tractorworks and Arborculture and Stephen Delarede, son of Stacey Delarede of the Town of New Paltz. Because of the

For all storage needs

Foundation’s successful fundraising throughout the year, we were also able to award two Special Merit Awards of $500 each to Mairead Fogarty of Masseo Landscaping and Taylor LaForge, daughter of Susan LaForge of the Times-Herald Record. Entering summer, the Foundation got right back on the fundraising horse with the 7th Annual New Paltz Regional Garden Tour, attracting scores of visitors from Ulster, Dutchess, and Orange counties and beyond. The Foundation, in partnership with Gardiner Association of Businesses, followed up in August with “The 3/50 Project: Building Business from the Ground Up,” presented by Project founder Cinda Baxter. At the time of this writing, we’re working very hard on our biggest fundraiser of the year—the Taste of New Paltz, now in its 20th year. We’re so proud to be able to present these Chamber and Foundation special events, that enabled us to provide more excellent educational Chamber programs than ever and increase our annual scholarship awards by 50% in 2010. We look forward to more successful special events in 2011.

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REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2010

UPCOMING EVENTS Thursday, October 7 After-Hours Mixer @ C2G Environmental Consultants and Green State Services, New Paltz Help say “hello” to fall, enjoy delicious food, and check out C2G Environmental Consultants’ new location on South Putt Corners Road with the Chamber’s October After-Hours Mixer. C2G Environmental Consultants is a multi-discipline environmental consulting firm offering a full range of services to a wide variety of clients in both the private and public sectors. Clients include Fortune 500 companies, commercial developers, municipal agencies, contractors and professional service firms. Time: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Place: C2G Environmental Consultants, 83 South Putt Corners Road, New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to Chamber Members, $15 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org Wednesday, October 13 Business Luncheon @ La Mirage Restaurant and Catering, Ulster Park, featuring Carl Janasiewicz of Ulster Savings Bank: “Secrets of Social Security” After being told for years that Social Security is “going broke,” baby boomers are realizing that it will soon be their turn to collect. The decisions they make now, however, can have a tremendous impact on the total benefits they stand to receive over their lifetime. This informative seminar covers the basics of Social Security and reveals strategies for maximizing your benefits. Sponsor: CDPHP Time: 12:00 noon – 1:30 p.m. Place: La Mirage Restaurant and Catering, 423 Route 9W, Ulster Park Cost: Complimentary to NPRCoC Corporate Partners, $20 for Chamber Members, $25 for non-members. Friday, October 29 Fall Business Card Exchange @ New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce Office, New Paltz It’s been over a year since the Chamber moved its offices uptown to 257 Main Street, New Paltz. Have you been to see us yet? Stop in for great early morning networking and see what we’ve done with the place at our Fall Business Card Exchange. This event is always one of our most popular, so come prepared with plenty of business cards! Time: 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. 4

Place: New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce Office, 257 Main St., New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to Chamber members; $15 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org

Friday, November 5 New Member Breakfast @ The Terrace Restaurant, SUNY New Paltz Meet the NPRCoC board and staff and learn how to maximize the benefits of your Chamber membership at this special by-invitation-only breakfast. Sponsor: Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz Time: 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. Place: Terrace Restaurant, SUNY New Paltz Cost: Complimentary. Invitation only. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org for more information or to request an invitation. Tuesday, November 9 After-Hours Mixer @ Upstairs on 9 Cafe, New Paltz Warm up a November evening with some terrific networking at Upstairs on 9 Café, located at the beautiful New Paltz Golf Course. Not a golfer? No Problem! Upstairs on 9 Café is open to the public, offering fresh, delicious food at reasonable prices with incredible views of the Shawangunk Mountains. Time: 5:30 – 7:30 a.m. Place: Upstairs on 9 Café at the New Paltz Golf Course Cost: Complimentary to Chamber members; $15 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org Wednesday, November 17 Business Luncheon @ Harvest Cafe, featuring Tom Edwards of Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits As the holiday season approaches, bringing with it an increased number of special occasion business and client dinners, how certain are you about your wine menu? Tom Edwards of Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits wants to help keep you on your feet when the sommelier draws nigh. Learn the ups and downs of ordering wine in a business setting. Sponsor: Dedrick’s Pharmacy & Gifts. Wines provided by Wines Worldwide. Time: 12:00 noon – 1:30 p.m. Place: Harvest Cafe Restaurant & Wine Bar Cost: Complimentary to NPRCoC Corporate Partners; $20 for Chamber members, $25 for non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org

wednesday, November 17 Professional Development Series Panel Discussion IV: “Conflict Resolution” 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 Chamber members, $15 non-members. Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org Thursday, December 9 After-Hours Mixer @ Bywater Bistro Join us at the Bywater Bistro for our alwayspopular holiday mixer! Whether it’s for a glass of wine, to have house cocktails and appetizers in the lounge, or to sit on the deck to taste one of Sam’s newest creations featuring locally grown produce, it’s always well worth the trip. Time: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Place: Bywater Bistro, 419 Main St., Rosendale Cost: Complimentary to Chamber members; $15 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org to RSVP or to request an invitation. Wednesday, December 15

Business Luncheon @ Aroma Thyme Bistro, featuring Brendan Burke, Shadowland Theater There’s no business like show business. Get an inside look at Shadowland Theater, led behind the scenes by producing artistic director Brendan Burke. Dedicated to high-quality, professionally produced plays and musicals, Shadowland performs in its own building, which first opened in 1920 as an Art Deco movie and vaudeville house. Substantial renovations in recent years have completely rebuilt the interior of the old theater, retaining the art-deco features while creating a tiered, 148-seat, intimate semithrust stage. Sponsor: Ellenville Regional Hospital Time: 12:00 noon – 1:30 p.m. Place: Aroma Thyme Bistro, 165 Canal St., Ellenville Cost: Complimentary to NPRCoC Corporate Partners, $20 for Chamber members, $25 for non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org

WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CONTENTS

10 14

Services Include:

Technologically Sophisticated The Evolution and Impact of Technology on Business There is no way to measure the breadth of change that the evolution of technology has brought to the business world—but we can analyze it and determine how we’ll respond.

Harmony After Hiring How to Deal with Employee Relations Regional Report speaks with local businesses and employee relations experts on how to preserve morale and maintain a productive work environment.

20 22 23 24

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This issue’s legislation and news that affects your business: education overhaul in New York, gubernatorial candidates identify a property tax cap as a key issue.

Event Spotlight: Tom Edwards of Fox & Hound Wine & Spirits At the November 17 Chamber luncheon at the Harvest Cafe, Tom Edwards of Fox & Hound will offer tips on ordering wine in a business setting.

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Event Spotlight: Brendan Burke of the Shadowland Theatre Take a trip behind the curtain with the artistic director of the Shadowland Theatre at the Chamber luncheon on December 15 at Aroma Thyme Bistro.

Member Profiles: At Home for the Holidays Regional Report checks in with some Chamber members who make the holiday season especially festive: Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz Downtown Business Association, Shawangunk Wine Trail, and Paws of Distinction.

Our Friendly Service Is REAL!

Upcoming Events

Recent Chamber Events

Member Updates

(845) 255-7324 Gardiner, NY

Member Renewals

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Membership Matters

Serving Ulster, Dutchess, and Beyond

REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2010

NPRCoC BOARD AND STAFF Board Officers

2010 CORPORATE PARTNERS

CHAIR Ernie VanDeMark Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp.

LEADING PARTNER

Chris Drouin Beyond Wealth Management ND 2 VICE CHAIR Craig Shankles PDQ Printing and Graphics TREASURER Mindi Haynes Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell, LLP, CPAs FINANCIAL ADVISOR Jerry Luke Fox Hill B&B LEGAL COUSEL James Yastion Blustein, Shapiro, Rich & Barone, LLP

Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp.

1 ST VICE CHAIR

Board of Directors

Frank Curcio Bank of America Tom Edwards Fox & Hound Wine and Spirits Helen Gutfreund LMT Bodymind Massage Therapy Constance Harkin Ulster Savings Richard Heyl de Ortiz Historic Huguenot Street Kay Hoiby Free Fall Express/dba: Blue Sky Ranch Walter Marquez Water Street Market Dr. David Ness Performance Sports and Wellness Kathleen Packard KathodeRay Media Patrick Turner Little Pond Consulting Sue Van De Bogart St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital Helise Winters SUNY New Paltz (Office of Regional Education) EMERITUS MEMBERS

Robert Leduc Mohonk Mountain House Rick Lewis Riverside Bank Ofc. Scott Schaffrick New Paltz Police Department Susan VanVoorhis M&T Bank Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz Board OF DIRECTORS

Kathy Ferrusi Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union SECRETARY Joyce Minard New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce TREASURER Sue VanVoorhis M&T Bank BOARD MEMBER Sally Cross SUNY New Paltz Foundation BOARD MEMBER Teresa Thompson Main Street Bistro BOARD MEMBER Joanne Fredenberg BOARD MEMBER Cathy Sifre

ASSOCIATE PARTNER

Brinckerhoff and Neuville Insurance Group SUPPORTING PARTNERS

Health Quest Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union KIC Chemicals Inc. Ulster Savings Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell LLP, CPAs 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.

CHAIR

Chamber Staff

Joyce Minard President Christine Crawfis Director of Marketing & Communications MaryBeth Boylan Member Relations Associate Janet Nurre Communications & Programs Administrator Lucy Paradies Assistant Director of Finance & Membership 6

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.

Regional Report is published quarterly by the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce. 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. @2010 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 is strictly prohibited. Publishing services provided by Luminary Publishing.

WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

RECENT CHAMBER EVENTS 1

1 Jeff Logan crosses the 5K finish line in the 1st Annual New Paltz Challenge Half Marathon and Family 5K. 2 Business Expo co-chairs Connie Harkin of Ulster Savings and Craig Shankles of PDQ Business Printers at the 20th Annual Taste of New Paltz. 3 Jim Adair of Red Pump Studio accepts a certificate of appreciation from Joyce Minard, NPRCoC president. Red Pump Studio hosted the Chamber’s August After-Hours Mixer. 4 Sandy Dubois, Tina Schott, Bruce DuBois, and Ray Schott at the Foundation’s 25th Annual Golf Outing, held at Apple Greens Golf Course. 5 Tour-goers bond with Joe Sarubbi of Associated Abbey Carpet and Floor at the Foundation’s 7th Annual New Paltz Regional Garden Tour. Joe and JoAnn Sarubbi’s garden was one of seven gorgeous gardens featured on the 2010 Tour. REGIONAL REPORT SUMMER 2010

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Catskill Corn Maze 1375 Hurley Mountain Road Hurley, NY 12443 845-338-7276 Contact: Michael Paul Website: www.catskillcornmaze.com Category: Children’s Activities, Pick-Your-Own Farms

Catskill Hudson Bank 195 Lake Louise Marie Road PO Box 855 Rock Hill, NY 12775 845-796-9601 Fax: 845-794-9205 Contact: Glenn B. Sutherland Website: www.catskillhudsonbank.com Category: Banks

Cellular Sales Middletown Office 160 Dolson Avenue Middletown, NY 10940 845-344-6899 Contact: Annette Erkan Website: www.cellularsales.com Category: Cellular Phones

Cellular Sales Kingston Office 1300 Ulster Avenue Kingston, NY 12401 845-382-1122 Contact: Annette Erkan Website: www.cellularsales.com Category: Cellular Phones

Cellular Sales Newburgh Office 1401 Route 300 Newburgh, NY 12550 845-564-0141 Fax: 845-564-0143 Contact: Annette Erkan Website: www.cellularsales.com Category: Cellular Phones

Cellular Sales Poughkeepsie Office 790 South Road Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 845-298-2190 Contact: Annette Erkan Website: www.cellularsales.com Category: Cellular Phones

Earthgoods Market 71 Main Street New Paltz, NY 12561 845-255-5878 / fax 845-255-5878 Contact: Keng Ann (Clement) Lau 8

Category: Grocers - Organic

La Mirage 423 Route 9W Ulster Park, NY 12487 845-331-9400 Fax: 845-331-9481 Contact: Sam Adel Website: www. LaMirageSteakHouse.com Category: Restaurants, Catering

Len-Rich RV 39 Steves Lane Gardiner, NY 12525 845-725-7624 Fax: 845-750-6355 Contact: Lenny Zapka Website: www.len-richrv.net Category: RV Sales and Service

M. Young Communications 39 Halcyon Road Gardiner, NY 12525 845-255-0895 Contact: Melanie Young Website: www.myoungcom.com Category: Advertising/Marketing, Public Relations

Rainbarrel Products and Gifts 1183 Milton Turnpike PO Box 161 Clintondale, NY 12515 845-883-6520 Fax: 845-883-6520 Contact: Kirk & Lynne Timperio Website: www.rainbarrelsoap.com Category: Beauty & Skin Care Products, Gift Shops

Roll Publishing, Inc. PO Box 504 Rosendale, NY 12472 845-658-8153 Contact: Jamaine Bell Website: www.rollmagazine.com Category: Publishers

Sage Fitness of New Paltz 40 Sunset Ridge, Suite 130 New Paltz, NY 12561 845-633-8243 Contact: Anna McConnell Website: www.sagefitnessofnewpaltz.com Category: Health/Fitness Center

Shawangunk Running Company 2 Church Street New Paltz, NY 12561 845- 256-0525 Fax: 845-256-0530 Contact: Jan Cyr Website: www.shawangunkrunningcompany.com Category: Retail-Running Specialty Shops

Tech Smiths Water Street Market 10 Main St. #421 New Paltz, NY 12561 845-255-0139 Contact: Brian or Alan Macaluso Website: www.tech-smiths.com Category: Computer Consulting, Sales & Service

The Cafeteria at New Paltz 58 Main Street New Paltz, NY 12561 845-633-8287 Contact: Jim Svetz Website: www.muddycup.com Category: Coffee Houses

The Would Restaurant 120 North Road Highland, NY 12528 845-691-9883 Contact: Debra Dooley / Claire Winslow Website: www.thewould.com Category: Restaurants, Catering

Upstairs on 9 Café 215 Huguenot Street New Paltz, NY 12561 845-255-1960 Contact: Karen Furey Website: www.upstairson9.com Category: Restaurants

Westwood Metes & Bounds Realty, Ltd. 134 Main Street New Paltz, NY 12561 845-255-9400 Fax: 845-255-0297 Contact: Jan Kohn Website: www.westwoodrealty.com Category: Real Estate Agencies New members who joined between May 15 and August 15.

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THE WORK ENVIRONMENT

HARMONY AFTER HIRING How to Deal with Employee Relations By Kelley Granger

n every aspect of life, we have relationship issues to deal with. But when the issues in question have to do with our business and involve our team of employees, the stakes are pretty high—including things like losses in productivity or information leaks. Regional Report spoke with local businesses and employee relations experts to cull some helpful hints for preserving morale and maintaining a productive work environment.

Finding the Right People

Hiring effectively was a lesson that Sean Griffin, the president of Cornerstone Services Inc., a mailing, data management, and graphic design firm in New Paltz, learned after losing two employees in the same department a few years ago. “It became clear that there is a type of person that does well here and a type of person who doesn’t,“ says Griffin. “It’s nothing about or against that person, it’s just that people’s natures are different and there has to be synchronicity and I didn’t really appreciate that before. I learned from having lost two people in the same department that 10

I really need to examine more closely who comes aboard.” Since then, hiring has become more of a group process. While Griffin still holds trump when it comes to candidate selection, potential hires meet with the entire staff, and Griffin considers his employees’ thoughts when making his final choice. John White, the director of sales and marketing for Staff-Line in Poughkeepsie, says that disappointing employee behavior or performance can often be traced back to a faulty hire. White says that many times Staff-Line, which is a professional employer organization and acts as the human resources arm for a number of small businesses, will find that a “problem employee” is often one that has just been placed in the wrong work environment. Place an employee in the correct work environment and the symptom goes away. Good communication during the initial hire will also aid if any differences arise later. Setting Standards

The majority of issues an employer might face with his or her employees often origi-

nate in some communication mishap, be it a miscommunication or a lack of communication all together. With 160 employees and only 15 based in the office, Margaret McDowell of Bermac Home Aides says that communication is the biggest issue. It’s become imperative that they find a way to manage and accurately convey schedules, addresses, and duty outlines for dozens and dozens of aides who work in the field. As a business will often find, the best way to accomplish this is in writing. Griffin decided to take the idea a step further between 2008 and 2009 when he hired someone to come in and write an employee handbook for Cornerstone. Now when a new employee is hired, Griffin goes through the handbook with them in detail. In addition to general operating standards, he now has strict non-compete clauses in writing as well as a consent to work an occasional Sunday during the busy season— an example of two situations that may have caused conflict in the past—which employees acknowledge and sign at the time of their hire.

WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

“If I didn’t set standards and specifics about what people had to do here, they defaulted to their own standards and their own ideas about what they should be doing, and that’s not okay,” Griffin says. Harmony By Example

The best way for management to advocate a specific type of behavior is to embody it themselves. “You have to be working on yourself constantly,” says Griffin. “Write down standards for yourself and live by them. My own behavior has to be under constant review and subject to daily improvement. Management is a spiritual discipline, not unlike regular meditation. Talk is cheap. People will watch what I do and even how I treat myself. Action is much more important.” At Bermac Home Aides, McDowell says that the management team encourages and motivates their employees to avoid conflict by the management’s own example. “You lead by showing them that you want them to getting along, that getting along is absolutely essential.” Managers should show that they’re flexible and willing to adapt to employee needs. Because different employees respond to different communication styles, managers must translate what method will work best in each person’s scenario. Ensuring that your management team is willing to be flexible in their communication approach and are also displaying a work ethic that employees can emulate will often help curb conflict before it even surfaces.

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conflict resolution A Professional Development Series Panel Discussion on conflict resolution will take place on Wednesday, November 17, 9-11 a.m. at the SUNY New Paltz School of Business, van den Berg Hall, room 110. Sponsored by Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz. Reservations required. Complimentary to Chamber members, $15 non-members. Call 845-2550243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org.

REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2010

TECHNOLOGICALLY SOPHISTICATED Change Has Come

Technology’s implications for business have evolved and continue to evolve at a rapid pace. Almost 20 years ago, Dedrick’s Pharmacy & Gifts was one of the first pharmacies in the area to go completely computerized, allowing the business an unprecedented way to easily bill insurance companies, access customer profiles, and look up drug interactions. That was just the beginning of the role that computers would play for the pharmacy—today Dedrick’s employs a sophisticated POS (point of sale) system that allows them to track inventory, trace stolen products, place orders automatically, and record customer spending habits through a customer rewards program. The paper prescription with illegible doctor instructions may be becoming a thing of the past too, as Dedrick’s has already started receiving electronic prescriptions through a secure, encrypted connection. And a redesign on its website a couple of years ago boosted visits, says owner Bill Sheeley, not only from the local area, but other states as well—the store has gotten orders from as far as Missouri thanks to its online presence. Technology seems to be giving the consumer (who in turn appears to be demanding) more autonomy and flexibility when it comes to certain tasks. In the banking industry, this has been seen with the advent of drive-up ATMs that offer teller-less transactions from the comfort of your car, or website services where you can complete and submit the information to open an account or apply for a loan from an armchair at home. Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union really took advantage of this fact with its own website redesign. The result was a significant increase in web traffic by 15 percent between October of 2008 to this past July. The bank now receives more than 560,000 hits a month, and its new look has helped drive the opening of 25 to 30 new accounts per month via the site, as well as a huge amount of loan applications. In fact, there are more loan applications coming in through the website than through any other channel, be it a branch office or telephone center. “I think what’s happened is that providing a fresher, more contemporary site that is ap12

pealing to our membership has spelled a big difference in driving people to that channel,” says Stephen Nikitas, the credit union’s vice president of marketing. “In effect, what we do is we treat our website as if it were a branch or a store, so we want to make sure people coming into our website can get all the information and purchase the same products or services as they could at a branch or on the telephone.”

“The tools will facilitate almost anything you want. But what motivates that behavior and how that continues to change really matters.” —Brian Reich The Consumer Connection

Technology and the Internet have changed the ways that consumers seek out and select what it is they’re going to buy, or where they’re going to stay or eat. Staying on top of those trends is essential to staying relevant and making the most of the technological tools that are available. Marcus Guiliano, the owner of Aroma Thyme Bistro in Ellenville, says that technology has advanced so rapidly that the landscape is different than it was even seven years ago, when he first opened his doors. “It was important to have a website then, now other stuff is so much more important,” he says. “Seven years ago there wasn’t GPS in people’s cars, now people are finding us in ways that weren’t possible before.” A lot of Guiliano’s strategy focuses on ways that he can make himself available and known to his consumers through these new channels—be it a GPS, a Smartphone, or an online

continued from front cover search. “It’s all about content,“ he says. “You get content onto applicable sites, find sites to get listed on, and also submit your listing to certain places.” You can find Guiliano and Aroma Thyme using various social utilities, from Facebook to YouTube to Twitter to Foursquare to blogs on Blogspot. His goal is to focus on not just search engine optimization, but social media optimization. The more content you post, and the more people report your content, the more your message gets spread. Guiliano calls Twitter a total game changer—using search.twitter.com, he can actually seek out people who have posted that they’re hungry or are looking for a restaurant and personally respond to them with a targeted way to attract them into the restaurant. Content is King

Brian Reich is the managing director of Little m Media and an authority on how businesses can use the Internet and technology to connect to their audiences in meaningful ways— he’s the author of Media Rules!: Mastering Today’s Technology to Connect With and Keep Your Audience and the editor of Thinking About Media (www.thinkingaboutmedia. com). Reich believes it’s often the tools, and not the quality of content, that get the focus. “The tools are valuable, they allow people to connect, they allow information to spread further and faster than ever before, they allow for efficiency in ways that expand the potential for whatever people are doing. But technology is not the answer and not where the focus should be,” he says. “The focus should be on how people get and share information, what their expectations are and what that means to someone who is trying to get a person to do something, whether it’s read something, watch something, or buy something. The tools will facilitate almost anything you want. But what motivates that behavior and how that continues to change over time is what really matters.” Just deciding that you should be on Facebook is not enough. That’s a tactic, not a strategy, says Reich. Strategy is figuring out how you’re going to engage the audience— deciding to talk about all the good things your

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company does, explaining the differences between you and your competitor, using the avenue to give something away, or focusing on establishing a personality yourself and a genuine connection with the consumer. Many local businesses express interest in creating a presence online, but are unsure of how to go about it. Reich finds this predicament curious, especially when it comes to small businesses. “The interesting thing is the small organization, whether they’re just starting out or they’ve been around—they do know about the people they’re trying to engage,” he says. “What they’re lacking is the confidence that what they know about people is what they need to know about people to be successful in selling. As these [technological] tools became widely available, people started to get away from that deep understanding of what they’ve always done successfully. Presuming that they got into business for right reasons, the Internet and technology don’t change that at all, they just change the execution.” Guiliano has a very clear execution when it comes to his approach to social media for Aroma Thyme. He has multiple channels on YouTube, for example. One channel is used strictly for Guiliano to discuss health issues (he never mentions Aroma Thyme, convinced that viewers who like his message will search him out without a blatant link), while another is used to air staff training videos that he created, and another to discuss wine and beer. He maintains 30 blogs with targeted domain names using keywords like “Hudson Valley restaurant” and contributes to various social media accounts in a way that encourages customer interaction. If you’ve noticed more brands on television directing you to their Facebook as opposed to their direct website, that’s the point. “Websites are one-way streets,” says Guiliano. “This is a two-way street, the more you get involved the more you create community.” Social Media Mandate

Using social media to its fullest advantage has become a necessity for a lot of businesses. At Emerson Resort & Spa in Woodstock, Tamara Murray, the public relations director, says that creating an online presence using social media has become one of the resort’s top priorities. “When we started off in 2010

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TECHNOLOGICALLY SOPHISTICATED we decided to focus the majority of our efforts on social media and online marketing,” she says. “We actually hired an outside firm to assist with that and started Facebook and Twitter accounts, and are also in the process of completely revamping our website for search engine optimization purposes and trying to expand our reach through those methods. We feel that a well-rounded program would include all different forms, like traditional print media and advertising, but we could not afford to not to be focusing on technology-based applications.” Murray provides the content for the different channels, and the firm that it hired, DragonSearch Marketing in Kingston, does the implementing—it will take the material and mold it to certain applications. Twitter, for example, has a very strict 140-character format, so DragonSearch will tailor the information to that format and post it. The changes to the website are also more of-the-moment—for the first time, guests will be able to book online (though they still have the option of the call-in reservations process), and the homepage has become an ever-changing source of information with a shift away from a static homepage to one that is more blog-style, offering a feed of posts offering information about the resort. Marc Schain of Schain and Company, CPA in New Paltz has expressed an interest in creating a social media presence but has been hesitant to start before finding the right footing. “Be hesitant just to jump in without understating what you’re doing,” he says. “There were earlier versions of Facebook that created security problems and weren’t really that well thought out and there was a lot of hacking going on regarding that.” Schain says he does have an interest in figuring out a way to expand and promote his business using these utilities, but he wants to do it right. He’s waiting to attend a conference this fall in Washington, D.C. that’s being hosted by the company that manufactures his accounting and tax software. Besides the information that will be provided about new software and innovative technologies pertaining to his industry, Schain is also 14

looking forward to attending classes on implementing social media. Wave of the Future

Though social media and online communications are certainly one of the most exciting, in-your-face ways that businesses can connect with consumers, there are a host of extraordinary things that are happening in

“Virtualizing is phenomenal stuff. Now one or two pieces of hardware will do what used to take an entire rack of machines.” —Robert Shoemaker the back-end of the technology realm that are allowing businesses to be leaner and more efficient too. Robert Shoemaker of Professional Computer Associates in Red Hook says that he thinks remote computing and the concept of virtualizing an office is one of the most exciting things that he’s doing these days. “The concept of virtualizing and virtual computing is sometimes hard for people to grasp when I say ‘I’ve got a computer in a computer,’ or ‘I’ve got 8, or 10, or 12 computers running on one piece of hardware,’ it’s because they’re virtually there,” says Shoemaker. “Virtualizing is phenomenal stuff. Now one or two pieces of hardware will do what used to take an entire rack of machines.” Implementing some of these virtual computing ideas condenses the amount of equipment you’re running with leaner, more efficient technology. It’s a cost savings in hardware, in downtime, and in energy because one or two boxes can replace 10 to 12, using less electricity and producing less

continued from front cover heat that would necessitate cooling. At Full City Consulting, also in Red Hook, president and founder Adam Aronson says some of the most exciting news lately has had to do with the introduction of a new form of Filemaker designed for the iPhone that was just released this summer. The original application, Filemaker Pro, is a database software that offers an array of features and customizable functions, allowing users to create reports, form and manage invoices, store contacts, direct e-mail campaigns, and more. The new Filemaker Go allows access to these functions from an iPhone or an iPad. “Especially now with the introduction of Filemaker Go, which is their iPad and iPhone application, the ability for somebody on an iPhone to access the server from anywhere on the Internet that has their customer data [is amazing],” says Aronson. “To be able to look up the name of the spouse of the customer you’re about to walk in to have dinner with really gives people a lot of power. Given the fact that Filemaker is very low cost and has rapid development, there’s a lot of value there. ” So just what is the impact such access will have on a variety of industries? Aronson says at the Filemaker keynote, the speakers concluded that they just don’t know. “They said ‘We’re really waiting to see what the impact of this is,’” he remembers from a conference that introduced the application this summer. “The same way that the iPad had said that ‘We don’t know what this means yet.’” And More to Come

We’ve come to expect the acceleration of technology and the ways we can apply it to both business and life. “Things are happening and they’re happening at a remarkable rate,” says Shoemaker of Professional Computer Associates. “Part of it is that I think we’ve become accustomed to a rapid pace in technology. We’re expecting that and it becomes part of the way that we interact with technology, that we know is going to change and get better and stronger. I would say probably in the next five years the world of computing is not going to look like what you perceive it to look like today.”

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MEMBER UPDATES Walkway Receives Donation from Central Hudson Walkway Over the Hudson received a donation of $2,500 from Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation on behalf of the 2,500 customers who participated in the utility’s eBills electronic billing promotion. For every customer who switched to electronic billing and payment plan through May 15, Central Hudson pledged to contribute one dollar to Walkway. This is the third year Central Hudson has supported a service organization when customers switch to electronic billing and payment; more than 6,000 customers have switched to eBills through these promotions. For more information on the eBills electronic billing and payment program and other payment options, visit www.CentralHudson.com; and for information on Walkway Over the Hudson, visit www.walkway.org.

SLCH Partners with Wallkill High School St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital (SLCH) partnered with Wallkill High School to give students and parents a view into the devastating effects of fatal teenage accidents. Presenters included Kathy Sheehan, RN, SLCH Emergency Department nurse, Sgt. Gerald E. Marlatt, Town of Shawangunk Police Department, Michael and Linda Brooks, Brooks Funeral Home, Sharon Davis, mother of Wallkill student Andrew Davis who was killed in 2007 and Joseph Snyder, father of Mike Snyder, a Wallkill student and survivor of a recent accident. Schools interested in partnering with SLCH to offer this unique forum, should contact Kathy Sheehan at 845-568-2305.

John Edgar Wideman to speak at SUNY New Paltz On Friday, October 15, SUNY New Paltz will host acclaimed author and novelist John Edgar Wideman as part of the college’s Distinguished Speakers Series. Dr. Wideman is the author of several books and is currently Professor of Creative Writing and Africana Studies at Brown University. He will also receive an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters at his presentation. For further information and to purchase tickets, please visit: www.newpaltz.edu/speakerseries.

Annual Auction at Mohonk Preserve Mohonk Preserve’s 13th annual auction contributed $180,000 to support land protection, research, and outdoor education efforts that yield long-term

environmental and public benefits. At the June event, held at Slingerland Pavilion, the Preserve honored Open Space Institute with the “Long View Conservation Award.” The sold-out annual auction drew more than 200 patrons. To date, the event has raised over $1.2 million in support of the Preserve’s mission and programs. The 2010 auction was sponsored by Ulster Savings Bank and included dinner catered by Bridge Creek Catering and wine from Stone Ridge Wine and Spirits.

Resources Available for Greater Highland Business Owners The Greater Highland Community Development Committee announces a comprehensive plan to publicize the expanding resources available here to current and potential business owners. In addition to many existing and planned physical assets, Highland has an active revolving loan fund to help establish or expand commercial projects. Several factors are changing the demographics of the town’s residents and visitors, including the ongoing success of the Walkway Over the Hudson and its trail continuation into the hamlet. To learn more, contact the Zoning and Planning office, 845-691-2735, or stop by 12 Church Street, Highland.

Seventh Annual Bike for Cancer Care The Seventh Annual Bike for Cancer Care, to benefit the Rosemary D. Gruner Memorial Cancer Fund at Benedictine Hospital was held on Sunday, September 26. The event featured a 5-mile family ride and 25-and 50-mile routes throughout Ulster County, which started and finished at Ulster Savings Bank on Schwenk Drive in Kingston. Riders and volunteers enjoyed breakfast, rest stops, and a BBQ lunch, ice cream and live entertainment at the end of the ride. Prizes were awarded to the top fundraisers. To donate to the fund, visit www.bikeforcancer.org, or call 845-417-1865.

New Board Members at Historic Huguenot Street Historic Huguenot Street announces three new board members: Christina Bark, Susan Ingalls Lewis, and Edith Mayeux. Christina Bark is experienced as a corporate leader, attorney, and entrepreneur. Susan Ingalls Lewis is an Associate Professor of History at SUNY New Paltz. Edith Mayeux is the Trade Commissioner for the Wallonia Region of Belgium at the Consulate of Belgium in New York. Stephen Pratt Lumb of

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 November, February, 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 news brief (100-word maximum) to the Chamber office at info@newpaltzchamber.org or 845-255-5189.

Dutchess County, returned to the board after a short break, and Thomas E. Nyquist and Stewart P. Glenn of New Paltz, Mark A. Rosen of Stone Ridge, and Eileen Crispell Ford of Norwalk, CT, were re-elected.

Wingate Healthcare Nursing Staff Recognized Nine members of Wingate Healthcare nursing staff were recognized for their graduation from the Advanced Certified Nursing Assistant Program at a recent luncheon held at Wingate at Ulster, Highland. In addition to five years’ experience as a CNA, two letters of recommendation, and a letter of intent, participants need to also complete this nine week, 27-hour education program for the certification. The June 2010 graduates are Vivian Perez, Lydia McLean-Barnett, Kara Charles, Everton Wilson, Esmine Chin, Kia Pierce, Madeline Torino, Cissy Cservak, and Marjorie Elmondorf. To learn more about Wingate Healthcare visit www.wingatehealthcare.com.

Magda Reyes joins VDDW CPAs Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni and Weddell LLP, CPAs announces that Magda Reyes of Middletown has joined the firm. Magda will be working as a junior accountant in the Newburgh office. She is a recent graduate of Mount St. Mary College with an MBA in accounting. Prior to graduate school, she graduated from SUNY New Paltz with a degree in International Business. Magda interned with a CPA firm in Mongaup Valley, New York as a junior accountant. For more information, call (845) 567-9000. REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2010

SUNY New Paltz in Top 10 in U.S. News & World Report

Dorsky Museum Receives Gift of Paintings

Marshall & Sterling Inc. Announces Promotions

SUNY New Paltz is 7th among the best public universities in the North with master’s degree programs, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2011 America’s Best Colleges guidebook. The College rose from 8th place last year. New Paltz was also ranked 33rd among public and private universities in the North with master’s degree programs.

The Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art at SUNY New Paltz has received a gift of two paintings, Winter Sunset After a Storm, ca. 1870 and Journey’s Pause in the Roman Campagna, 1868 by Jervis McEntee from Helen McEntee, wife of Jervis MacEntee’s nephew, Col. Girard Lindsley McEntee. Jervis McEntee was an American painter of the 19th-century Hudson River School and a close friend and traveling companion of several more well-known Hudson River School artists. Aside from his paintings, McEntee’s detailed journals are an enduring legacy. He is buried in Montrepose Cemetery in Kingston.

Marshall & Sterling Inc. announces the following promotions: Ms. Jeanne Maloy, Vice President & Branch Manager for the Glenville office; Ms. Linda Nilsson, Vice President & Branch Manager for the New Windsor office; Ms. Cathy Shanks, Vice President & Branch Manager for the Millbrook office; Mr. Eric Diamond, Vice President & Director of Operation for Group Benefits; Mr. Jeremy Schokman, Vice President & Director of Sales & Development for Group Benefits. An employee-owned company, Marshall & Sterling Insurance, Inc. is ranked 27th among more than 30,000 privately-held insurance agencies in the US. For more information, call (845) 567-1000.

36 Main Adds Music on Monday Nights

Ulster Savings Sponsors RUPCO’s NeighborWorks

The wonderful space at 36 Main Restaurant and Wine Bar has added Monday night music series and industry night to its list of upcoming events. Aside from great food, impressive wine list and a lively, young staff, 36 Main now offers free music every Monday at 7:30 p.m. Some of the best local and regional touring acts can be seen up close and personal in a living room-like setting, offering eclectic music from jazz, rock, Americana, bluegrass, folk and anything in between. Come see what’s happening in your town. For more information, visit www.36main.com or call 845-255-3636.

Ulster Savings Bank announced a $10,000 sponsorship of the Rural Ulster Preservation Company’s (RUPCO) NeighborWorks® HomeOwnership Center. Ulster Savings Bank has provided assistance to RUPCO’s NeighborWorks HomeOwnership Center since its inception in 2004 and has partnered with RUPCO on numerous projects during their decades-long relationship.

Unison Hosts Open Mic Sessions Unison Art and Learning Center hosts Unplugged Acoustic Open Mic sessions Sundays: September 29, October 17, November 28 and December 19. Sign up to participate at 3:30 p.m.; performances from 4-6pm. Get your feet wet at Unison’s Acoustic Open Mic sessions. Bring your flute, lute, or kazoo, banjo, or bongos, favorite poems or unaccompanied songs—and perform before a friendly supportive audience. Whatever genre you love is welcome, as long as it’s acoustic. For additional information, call John DeNicolo at 845-255-5978 or e-mail JDCPA@aol.com.

Ulster Savings Supports the HealthMatch Program Ulster Savings Charitable Foundation recently donated $10,000 to the Catskill Hudson Area Health Education Center to support the HealthMatch program. The Foundation’s grant will help support the efforts of HealthMatch in raising $200,000 to bring two primary care providers to the Ellenville/Wawarsing area. HealthMatch is a provider recruitment service designed specifically for small and rural communities. The Ulster Savings Charitable Foundation was formed in 2003 to assist the local community in areas of housing, education, and health and human services. For more information regarding the donation or the Ulster Savings Charitable Foundation, please call Jeffrey Wood at 845-338-6322, ext. 3268.

Arnoff Earns Perfect Score from Department of Defense A recent US Department of Defense inspection of Arnoff Moving & Storage earned a perfect score for the operation and conditions of its warehouses in Poughkeepsie. This thorough inspection covers all warehouse practices, including inventory and labeling methods, neatness of the premises and employees, paperwork preparation, storage methods, fire prevention, housekeeping, security, pest control, and structural conditions. The US DOD is a long-time customer of Arnoff Moving & Storage and regular inspections must meet stringent requirements. Arnoff has provided moving and storage services to the Hudson Valley since 1924. To see photos of Arnoff’s warehouses, visit www.arnoff.com. 16

Edward Jones Ranks Highest in J.D. Power Survey For the fifth year out of the past six, financialservices firm Edward Jones ranks highest in investor satisfaction with full-service brokerage firms, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Full Service Investor Satisfaction Study, announced Marlene Pagentine, an Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones’ overall score climbed 10 points over last year, when it also was ranked highest among the 12 largest firms rated. The 2010 Full Service Investor Satisfaction Study is based on responses from 4,460 investors and was fielded in May 2010. For more information, visit www.edwardjones.com or call 845-255-2955.

Riverside Bank Earns 5-Star Rating BauerFinancial, Inc. announces that Riverside Bank has earned its highest 5-Star Superior rating for strength and stability. The past few years have been extremely difficult for the banking industry and the fact that Riverside Bank continues to excel in such areas as capital adequacy, delinquent loan levels, and profitability clearly indicates it is one of the strongest banks in the country. Riverside Bank has been serving the banking needs of its neighbors and friends for 22 years. It currently operates through four conveniently located offices in Fishkill, Newburgh and Poughkeepsie and can be found online at www.riversidebankhv.com.

Daniel A. Arnoff Joins Arnoff Daniel A. Arnoff has joined Arnoff Moving & Storage’s corporate office as Business Development Manager. In this position Daniel will be responsible for business development in the company’s Hudson Valley service region and the driving force behind the company’s presence in the government and municipal business sectors. He will also head up development of the company’s growing Allied Van Lines brand. Daniel received his BS in Marketing from George Washington University. Arnoff Moving & Storage is a family-owned and operated transportation company specializing in executive and family relocations, office and industrial moves, rigging and complete logistics services.

Jennifer L. Wilson Promoted at Riverside Bank Riverside Bank announces the promotion of Jennifer L. Wilson of Walden to Assistant Treasurer. Jennifer was hired by Riverside Bank on August 8, 2008 as Assistant Manager in the Newburgh Branch. Jennifer brings over 25 years of professional banking experience to Riverside Bank and previously worked for Key Bank in Montgomery and Newburgh. Jennifer specializes in Sales, Consumer Lending, Training, Financial Solutions and Government Solutions for Small Businesses.

Ulster Savings Grants Award to Family of Woodstock The Ulster Savings Charitable Foundation announced a grant award of $12,000 to Family of Woodstock in support of its Capital Project at Family House. The Foundation’s grant will

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assist in efforts to upgrade the water filtration system and install an emergency generator at its 14-bed runaway and homeless youth facility. For more information regarding the Scholarship and L.I.F.E. Grant programs or the Ulster Savings Charitable Foundation, please call Jeffrey Wood at 845-338-6322, ext. 3268.

New Paltz Community Acupuncture Celebrates First Anniversary New Paltz Community Acupuncture, the acupuncture practice of Amy Benac, will be celebrating its first anniversary on Saturday, October 16th from 3p.m.-6p.m. Stop by for wine and hors d’oeuvres, a chance to win free sessions, and to see what community acupuncture is all about. New Paltz Community Acupuncture is located at 21 South Chestnut Street (Route 208), New Paltz. If you have any questions, please call 845-255-2145 or visit www.newpaltzacu.com.

SUNY New Paltz Named Green College SUNY New Paltz is one of the country’s most environmentally responsible colleges, according to The Princeton Review, an education services company, and has been included in a new guidebook titled, The Princeton Review’s Guide to 286 Green Colleges. New Paltz made the list for a variety of green initiatives, including signing the American College & University Presidents Climate Commitment in 2008; integrating sustainable construction practices; developing new environmental programs in the curriculum; campus-wide participation in recycling; and environmental organizations. For more information about New Paltz’s Green initiative, visit www.newpaltz.edu/green/index.html. Download the guidebook at www.princetonreview.com/ greenguide and www.usgbc.org/campus.

Wingate Healthcare Announces Employees of the Month Wingate Healthcare proudly announces employees of the month for the second quarter of 2010: Dina Martelli, CNA for Wingate at Dutchess; Erin Crowley, COTA for Wingate at Dutchess; Mary C. Oberle, LPN for Wingate at Dutchess; Jennifer Caroli, PTA for Wingate at Beacon; Linda Dourado, Unit Secretary for Wingate at Beacon; Carla Romero, COTA for Wingate at Beacon; Pete Urbanski, Maintainance Assistant for Wingate at Ulster; Lydia McLean Barnett, CNA II for Wingate at Ulster; Nancy Tornatore, RN for Wingate at Ulster. To learn more about Wingate Healthcare visit www.wingatehealthcare.com

Melinda Cavanaugh Named Star of the Month at SLCH St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital (SLCH) is proud to name Melinda Cavanaugh of Newburgh as its June Star of the Month. Cavanaugh, an Associate REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2010

MEMBER UPDATES in the Pain Management Department, has been an employee of SLCH for seven years. SLCH 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.

Unison Presents Articulture at Hurd’s Family Farm On Saturday, September 25, from 1 – 5pm, Unison Art and Learning Center presented ARTIculture at Hurd’s Family Farm, 2187 Route 32, Modena,. ARTIculture is an innovative partnership to promote “cross-pollination” between the arts and agriculture. The event featured live music, juried crafts show, and a farmers market, plus all of Hurd’s fun, farmthemed rides. Admission to all ARTIculture events was free. Visit www.hurdsfamilyfarm.com or www.unisonarts.org for more information, or call 845-255-1559.

Study Confirms Parks/ Preserves as Economic Engines The Study of the Economic Impact on the Local Economy of Minnewaska State Park Preserve, Mohonk Preserve and Sam’s Point Preserve, conducted by Business Opportunities Management Consulting, confirms that the three publicly accessible park/preserves serve as important economic engines, creating jobs, driving tourism spending and contributing $12.3 million to the local economy. According to the study, Minnewaska, Mohonk Preserve, and Sam’s Point host a combined 392,659 visitors who spend over $13 million annually; annual local sales taxes generated total $459,000 and over 350 local jobs are supported by the three park/preserves.

Edwards Jones Named Number One Full-Service Broker Edward Jones was named number one full-service broker by SmartMoney magazine, receiving high marks for client satisfaction, client statement, and stock-picking. The magazine lauded Edward Jones for growing the number of financial advisors to meet investor needs. Edward Jones embraces the importance of building long-term, face-to-face relationships with clients, helping them to understand and make sense of the investment options available today. For more information, visit www.edwardjones.com or call Marlene Pagentine at 845-255-2955. 18

Historic Huguenot Street Transfers Property Historic Huguenot Street has reached an agreement with Locust Grove in Poughkeepsie to transfer to it the properties and collections of Locust Lawn located in Gardiner. The agreement is the result of months of planning to reunite the family homes of Annette Innis Young, who was responsible for establishing both estates as protected historic sites. Historic Huguenot Street will also donate its adjoining properties, including the historic Terwilliger stone house and the Little Wings Bird Sanctuary and Meadow. Both Historic Huguenot Street and Locust Grove hold absolute charters as museums from the New York State Education Department.

Eric Gullickson Resigns as Director of Media Relations at SUNY New Paltz Eric Gullickson, Director of Media Relations in the Office of Communication & Marketing at SUNY New Paltz has announced his resignation from the College to take the position of Director of Hotel Operations at Mohonk Mountain House. Gullickson served as the College’s chief spokesperson since 2003 and has been responsible for writing, editing and distributing the College’s news for more than eight years. Members of the media should continue to call the Office of Communication & Marketing at 845-257-3245 for assistance.

Whitecliff Vineyard Wins Double Gold at San Francisco International Wine Competition Whitecliff Vineyard, one of the Hudson Valley’s premier small family wineries, took home a Double Gold and the Best In Show - White Wine award at the San Francisco International Wine Competition. This is the largest, most influential international wine competition in America, judged blind by a prestigious panel of nationally recognized wine experts. With almost 4,000 wines entered this year from all over the world, Best White is a significant honor for Whitecliff, and for Hudson Valley winemaking. Whitecliff Vineyard is located at 331 McKinstry Road, Gardiner.

Clearwater Opens Nonprofit Organization Endowment Fund at the Community Foundation Hudson River Sloop Clearwater recently opened a Nonprofit Organization Endowment Fund at the Community Foundation serving Dutchess,

Ulster and Putnam Counties that will support the work of Clearwater in carrying out its mission and build a permanent source of income for the organization. A Nonprofit Organization Endowment Fund is a safe and simple way for a nonprofit organization to establish an endowment. For more information, call 845-338-2535 or visit www.uccfny.org.

Dr. Melanie MacLennan Joins SLCH St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital is pleased to welcome Melanie MacLennan, MD to its medical staff. Dr. MacLennan, a primary care doctor with special interests in Women’s Health Issues and Diabetes, is practicing in association with Gurinder Mehar, MD, at their new office, 275 North St., Newburgh. Dr. MacLennan is Board Certified in Family Practice and speaks both Spanish and French fluently. Dr. MacLennan welcomes new patients and accepts most insurance plans. Convenient appointments are available, including one day a week in Cornwall. Appointments may be made by calling 845-562-7600.

CDPHP Invests in Primary Care and Pediatric Practices CDPHP announces a $1 million investment in 21 area primary care and pediatric practices to participate in the second phase of the Plan’s medical home initiative. The monetary investment will help phase II participants achieve PCMH level III certification, the integration of CDPHP resources (case management, pharmacy, behavioral health, and data analytics) where appropriate, and stipends to cover start-up costs. Those practices earning Level III certification and have been active participants in the CDPHP-sponsored transformation process will be eligible to participate in an innovative payment model commencing in the fall of 2011.

Ulster Savings Announces Student Awards The Ulster Savings Charitable Foundation recently awarded nearly $40,000 to 15 area students and 14 educators at their Scholarship and Learning Initiatives For Educators (L.I.F.E.) Grant Awards Reception, held at the Hillside Manor in Kingston. The scholarships were awarded to recognize outstanding academic and personal achievement by community-minded students. The L.I.F.E. grant program, created by the Foundation in 2008, assists Ulster County teachers with funding for specific purchases or programs outside of their regular budget. For more information, call Jeffrey Wood at (845) 338-6322, ext. 3268.

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REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2010

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

Last Minute Changes

Gov. Paterson has recently acted on 137 bills, vetoing 24 and enacting the remaining 113. Among the bills vetoed was an act that would create the Technology Employment Community Hub (TECH) centers program to award grants to community colleges for skills training, a bill that would require utility companies to include a notice of public hearings concerning rate increases, and legislation that prohibits employers from discriminating against victims of domestic violence. Among those that were signed into law were a bill that states that insurers with rental vehicle compensation not require the insured to rent from a certain company, a bill that relates to making real property tax receipts available online, and legislation that relates to paperwork reduction and fraud enforcement. The Business Council of New York claims a number of enacted bills are unfunded, have technical faults, lack a clear objective, or will be difficult to implement. The total increased and unfunded amount is around $22 million.

Final approval to the revenue bill shows increases in all-funds spending and some significant changes in policy. One of these changes eliminated Timothy’s Law, a mental health parity and subsidy for small businesses, which will contribute to a rise in the cost of group health coverage for small employers. The budget also included an increase of $420 million to the cap on the state’s film production credit for each of the next five years, and approved an alteration of the Excelsior Program, which provides up to $12 billion in tax credits for capital investment, new jobs, research and development spending, and real property taxes for businesses in the targeted sector for the next 10 years. The program replaces the Empire Zones program and is limited to no more than $50 million in new credits per year for the next five years.

Trouble at Home

According to the National Association of Realtors, sales of previously occupied homes dropped to their lowest point in 15 years this July, plummeting 27 percent. Homes in the middle and low ranges are the hardest hit, and the decline is mostly attributed to a stand-off between buyers and sellers—buyers are waiting for prices to get even lower, while homeowners are reluctant to see prices drop even more. “It really is a self-fulfilling prophecy,” Aaron Zapata, a real estate agent in Brea, California told the Associated Press. “If all buyers perceive that home prices are coming down, then they will stop making offers— and home prices will come down.” Sales are also being hampered by the expiration of the homebuyer tax credit, which stimulated sales through the spring, by the lingering negative unemployment figures, and by tightened lending standards in the banking industry. 20

Overhauling Education

New York is one of a dozen states that will share grant money from $3.4 billion in federal financing that was earmarked for education in last year’s economic stimulus program. States were chosen based on their plans to “shake up” the public school system, including measures to tighten up testing, improve student grade tracking from kindergarten through college, expand charter schools, and make other improvements to low performing schools. Meanwhile, the New York Times also reported that a number of inexperienced companies are cropping up that are posing as school “overhaulers” and consultants seeking contracts in states receiving grant money, but who lack any relevant experience. Council Concerns

In June, the Business Council of New York surveyed 3,000 of its members and asked them which issues they were most concerned about when it came to the cost of doing business and economic development. The resounding number one issue for cost was employee healthcare, followed by state and local property taxes on businesses, energy costs, and state taxes on individuals. In the realm of economic development, council members were most concerned about programs and incentives, workforce development, and capital for startups and growing businesses. The Council will use the results of this survey to help shape policy objectives and the organization’s priorities.

To Cap or Not to Cap

The question of whether to cap property taxes is sure to be a priority on the gubernatorial campaign trail this fall. “The key issues (this election year) are fiscal: How do people think Albany will help them with their financial situation,” Steven Greenberg, a spokesman for the Siena College Research Institute, told the Democrat and Chronicle. “So a property-tax cap is one that really hits home with voters.” Andrew Cuomo, a Democratic gubernatorial candidate, has proposed the idea of capping property tax growth at either two percent or the rate of inflation, whichever may be lower. Gov. Paterson also favors a cap, and the state senate recently passed a four-percent cap proposal that’s now awaiting assembly approval. Cuomo’s Republican rivals are divided—Rick Lazio prefers implementing a cap while Carl Paladino has said he’d favor cutting spending first. A cap is also vehemently criticized by the New York State United Teachers, a powerful union that says a cap would harm schools that are already suffering due to the economic climate and dwindling state aid.

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• • • •

Fertilizers Shavings Feed Fencing

• • • •

Pet Food & Supplies Lime Bedding Lawn & Garden Supplies

Phone | (845) 255-0050

Fax | (845) 255-7845

145 Route 32 North, New Paltz, NY 12561

CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS Quality • Care • Craftsmanship RENOVATIONS • ADDITIONS NEW CONSTRUCTION

ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDING 46 N. Chestnut Street, New Paltz, NY

845.255.5988 www.seakill.com REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2010

EVENT SPOTLIGHT

WINING (and dining) YOUR BUSINESS CLIENTS A Q&A with Tom Edwards of Fox & Hound Wine and Spirits By Kelley Granger

ven if you enjoy a nice glass of wine on a regular basis, ordering from a restaurant’s extensive wine list might still strike fear into your heart. The angst might only worsen if you’re out on a business dinner. Will you appear less polished if you fumble in your pronunciation of a particular estate? Will a poorly paired wine choice reflect something negative to your clients or colleagues? Whatever the question or dilemma, Tom Edwards of Fox & Hound Wine and Spirits probably has an answer. He’ll be giving a presentation on November 17 at Harvest Cafe Resturant and Wine Bar and will be discussing the finer points of wine selection in a business setting. Here, he shares some of his insider knowledge for those that may not be able to attend. Tell us about your wine experience. I started with an entry-level wine course much like the one that I’ll be giving for the Chamber. I was starting a career in the corporate business world and I knew I was going to be entertaining clients at lunches and dinners and I wanted to have a pretty big knowledge of ordering wine that was appropriate for food pairing. A lot of what I had done was through that basic coursework and just through trial and error. I’m a big foodie, so I’ve had a lot of opportunity to do experimentation. Now I’ve owned Fox & Hound Wine and Spirits for the last three years, and it’s a really tough job, but my job is to taste wine all day long. So I’ve gotten a really good crash course on different wines from tasting and from the wine sales people.

What makes wine the drink of choice when entertaining business clients? Anytime you bring food and wine together it evokes the feeling we get at home, the sense of friends and family. When you bring that to a business setting, you get a chance to really get to know someone without sticking to that strict, professional code.

soups and can also pair beautifully with lighter meats and even salads. It’s even quite good if it’s slightly chilled. I think one of the safer white wines to go to is sauvignon blanc. Sometimes chardonnay can be a little too oaky and reisling can be a little too much on the sweet side, so a sauvignon blanc is typically a nice middle-ofthe-road selection.

What do you find that most people get hung up about when ordering wine? The common mistake is that people think they’re supposed to like something because the wine critics have rated it a certain way and they’re supposed to like it. Our opinion at Fox & Hound is that good wine is wine you like. There are so many different types of varietals that when you find something that you like, then it is good wine. I think there are some basics that people should understand when they’re in a business setting or out at dinner, but they’re not set in stone.

Do you have tips for helping someone navigate an intimidating wine list? Yes, wine lists can be intimidating—especially if they are really extensive. What I do is ask the server or a sommelier for any kind of assistance—is there something special we should know about? Or I’d explain what we’re having and ask for their suggestion. Or I’d say we’d like a nice red and are looking for something in this price range. It’s not offensive at all to talk about price range and get suggestions from your server. And believe it or not, those people are very proud of the wines they have and they’ll tell you the best wines for what you’ve ordered and also what’s the best value of what they have to choose from.

What are some of those guidelines? Beyond the basic guideline of white meats like pork or chicken going well with white wine or beef and heavy dishes with reds, remember that climate has something to do with it. If you’re having a meal on a really hot day, you’re not necessarily going to order a heavy red wine. Maybe it’ll be a light white because the climate dictates it. The other thing is that sometimes people just don’t like white wine or just don’t like red wine. In lieu of a white wine, choose a lighter red wine, like a pinot noir. A pinot noir is a good, safe red wine that generally pairs well with a lot of meats and

Business luncheon Wednesday, November 17, 12-1:30 p.m. at Harvest Cafe Restaurant and Wine Bar in New Paltz. Sponsored by Dedrick’s Pharmacy & Gifts. Wine provided by Wine Worldwide. Reservations required. $20 for Chamber members; $25 nonmembers. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org.

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EVENT SPOTLIGHT

ECONOMICALLY ON CUE

The Relationship between Theaters and Local Businesses By Kelley Granger

his has been a record year so far for Shadowland Theatre in Ellenville—a fact that the theater, and all of the surrounding businesses, can celebrate together. “The theater has a remarkable effect on the local economy—just try to find a parking space in Ellenville on a Friday or Saturday night,” says Brendan Burke, Shadowland’s producing artistic director. “We draw up to 1,000 people to Canal Street on a summer weekend, and most of these folks are driving quite a distance to get here. The impact this has on the local restaurants and shops is evident. We’re drawing people into Ellenville and the local businesses take advantage of that.” Burke says Shadowland’s success stems from a focus on quality and value that’s allowed the theatre to present itself to audiences as a local and affordable alternative

business luncheon Brendan Burke will speak about Shadowland Theatre’s impact on the local economy at a lunch on Wednesday, Dec. 15 from noon to 1:30 at Aroma Thyme Bistro in Ellenville. Sponsored by Ellenville Regional Hospital. The event is $20 for members and $25 for non-members. For more information, please call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org.

to traveling to New York City to see shows. In fact, visitors to Shadowland will often see the same actors in Ellenville that they’d see on Broadway, thanks to a contract with Actors’ Equity (the union of professional

actors and stage managers) that allows them access to the very best actors available from Broadway and the country’s best regional theatres. The combination of talent and adventurous productions is a draw that benefits the theater and the local economy with repeat visits. The theater also works to give back to the community by making a concentrated effort to buy equipment and products locally and keep money circulating around the greater Ellenville area. “In this economy, funding of the arts can often be seen as an extravagance that we can’t afford,” Burke says. “Shadowland is a very clear example of why funding of the arts and other tourism efforts is so important. Theaters like Shadowland are major economic catalysts for the towns where they exist.” REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2010

MEMBER PROFILES At Home For the Holidays Everyone looks forward to the holidays—families and friends come together, meals are shared, and festivities are enjoyed. In New Paltz and the surrounding area, the local businesses only make that time of year feel that much more special, with a host of celebratory seasonal events and breathtaking decorating that makes it easy to get into the spirit. Here are a few local businesses that offer sights and celebrations you won’t want to miss this season.

MEMBER PROFILE

Mohonk Mountain House

t’s hard to imagine any one time of the year as being better than another to visit Mohonk Mountain House. Spring and summer are greeted with gardens, amazingly scenic hiking opportunities, and lake paddling, while fall is a dazzling array of foliage. But as the weather gets colder, the resort only starts to look warmer—after all, reminds marketing director Nina Smiley, the property offers the largest number of wood-burning fireplaces of any resort in the nation (124 out of 267 guest rooms contain one, to be exact). But a fire to cozy up to is just the beginning. Mohonk is known for it’s gorgeous holiday season decorating. Thanksgiving weekend ushers in the season with the lighting of a 60-foot Austrian pine, set ablaze with 1,440 sparkling lights and celebrated with caroling singers. “From 24

there on out the house is transformed into a winter wonderland inside and out,” says Smiley. Hand-made swags, kissing balls, intricately decorated gingerbread houses, and more than a dozen decked-out Christmas trees are spread throughout the grounds, as well as one special tree that’s strewn with homemade gingerbread cookie ornaments for tasting. Evening entertainment takes even takes a holiday tone with seasonal music and family activities. During Hanukkah, there’s a nightly lighting of the menorah. Guests of the resort can also arrange a more private celebration, one for which their room will be trimmed in holiday décor complete with stuffed stockings on the mantle. Even if you can’t take the time to be an overnight guest of the resort this season, reservations for a dinner will allow a glimpse at

the spectacular festivies and sampling from a seasonally inspired menu that Smiley calls “heirloom holiday cuisine,” creative comfort food designed by the resort’s culinary team. “Traditions include hot apple cider at the Afternoon Tea and Cookies, and executive chef Jim Palmeri’s heirloom holiday selections—menu items that celebrate the resort’s founding in 1869,” says Smiley. “Favorites include items such as Bread Stuffing with Honey Crisp Apples and Ham with Orange and Stone Ground Mustard.” MOHONK MOUNTAIN HOUSE 1000 Mountain Rest Rd. New Paltz, NY 12561 800-772-6646 www.mohonk.com

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Jim Smith Photography

By Kelley Granger

MEMBER RENEWALS

Thank you! 36 Main Restaurant & Wine Bar Adventure-Junction.com Ann Barber Consulting Avery & Company, LLC Bank of America Barclay Heights Bed & Breakfast Bill Kay Bling The Party C2G Environmental Consultants Casa Mia Restaurant Center for Therapeutic Massage Chelsea Modular Homes Building Systems, LLC Clarkson’s Appliances Clephas/Burns Environmental Colonial Flower Shop Commercial Associates Realty Inc. MEMBER PROFILE

Shawangunk Wine Trail

or more than a decade now, the Shawangunk Wine Trail has put on one of the most anticipated holiday events in the region, Wreath Fineries. For a few weekends in November and December, the 11 wineries host a total of 3,000 visitors who purchase tickets for tastings and then travel around to each winery, collecting a special ornament from each. The ornaments can then be attached to a handmade grapevine wreath that’s also a souvenir of the day, along with an etched Shawangunk Wine Trail glass. In the past, ornaments have ranged from simple glass balls to more signature pieces, like a candy cane wrapped with a ribbon carrying Whitecliff Winery’s logo or a replica of a draft cider bottle from Warwick Valley Winery. “It’s a real holiday event, the wineries are totally in the Christmas spirit,” says Debbie Gioquindo, the executive director for Hudson Valley Wine Country. She says that many of

the wineries are also very nicely decorated— Adair Vineyards in particular does a nice job with a tree and other touches, while Stoutridge Vineyard lights up a Yule log on its big-screen television. While the event is great for couples to larger groups, Gioquindo does note that six of the wineries cannot accept groups larger than 10 due to space constraints. Visitors can purchase couple’s tickets for a discounted price and share the wreath and ornaments, and designated drivers can purchase tickets that are even cheaper, enjoying their own wreath and ornaments with non-alcoholic refreshments. SHAWANGUNK WINE TRAIL 156 Highland Ave. Marlboro, NY 12542 914-474-7780 www.shawangunkwinetrail.com

Copeland Funeral Home Inc. Cornerstone Services, Inc. Cosimo’s Brick Oven Country Maids Concierge & Cleaning Service Creek View Campsites D.J. Abstract Co. Daily Freeman David Clouser & Associates Deep-Six Underwater Systems, Inc. Di Stasi, Moriello & Murphy Law, PLLC Dr. Elinor B. Descovich, O.D. Ellinwood&Krasinski, CPAs Elsie’s Place Emerson Resort & Spa Excel Auto Glass Corporation Fall Fittings, Inc. Flint Mine Press (Publisher of Hudson

Valley Wine Magazine)

Gadaleto’s Seafood Market Garvin Fine Art

REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2010

MEMBER RENEWALS Gateway Community Industries, Inc. George Tukel Gilded Otter Brewing Co. Glenn & Breheney, PLLC High Falls Mercantile Highland Rotary Club, Inc. Hudson Heritage Federal Credit Union Hudson Heritage Federal Credit Union New Paltz Branch Hudson Valley Abstract Hudson Valley Lodging Association Hudson Valley Water Resources Inc. Hungry Ghost Guest House & Herb

Garden

Idiverp Corporation

MEMBER PROFILE

Inn at the Ridge

New Paltz Downtown Business Association

Inn at Twaalfskill Jacobs Music Center Jane Palcic Schunk Real Estate Jenkins & Lueken Orchards Joey’s Taxi & Transportation JT Marks Trucking, Inc. Katia Gushue Fine Art Studio Kimlin Propane Co., Inc. Lithography by Design Little Pond Consulting, LLC Luis General Contracting M.J. Posner Construction Co., Inc. Maglyn’s Dream Maple Lane Apartment Rentals Marshall & Sterling, Inc. Masseo Landscape Inc. Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum Mountain Brauhaus Restaurant Mountain Skills Climbing Guides MVP Health Care Neko Sushi & Restaurant New Paltz Agway New Paltz Auto Center

hough the Downtown Business Association in New Paltz has been around for decades, it went a little defunct until about 2007, when a bunch of old members and new businesses began to breathe some new life into it. Last year, the association accomplished one of its biggest goals— the printing of a walking map and guide to the local businesses in the area, which is set for another distribution run in early 2011. But it’s Downtown Unwrapped that’s become the organization’s biggest event, and one of the village’s most anticipated celebrations of the holiday season. Now in its fourth year, 2010’s unwrapping will be unveiled on November 19. The DBA expects a conservative estimate of about a dozen businesses to participate by creating special holiday or winter scenes in their storefronts and then wrapping the windows up with decorative paper until the day of judging. In the past, Handmade and More has won first place with a woodland-themed scene composed of trees, owls, porcupines, and birds made of grapevine and tree bark or

some kind of natural material with a snowy woodland backdrop specially created by an artist. The Rambling Rose has also had notable window themes, including one with upside-down trees and another with mannequins that seemed to be dressed in Christmas trees. “It’s grown every year,” says Marge Schenck, the active treasurer for the steering committee of the DBA, of the event. “We’ve increased our membership a lot.” Schenck estimates the DBA membership is currently around 70 businesses in the downtown area, including retailers, restaurants, attorneys, and a range of other businesses. The mission of the DBA is to promote the area and also to endorse the interests of the village businesses when it comes to policy and local legislation that would affect them. NEW PALTZ DBA 6 North Front Street New Paltz, NY 12561 845-255-6277

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MEMBER RENEWALS New Paltz Bagel Café New Paltz Downtown Business Association New Paltz Golf Course P&G’s Restaurant Paychex Performance Sports & Wellness Petfield & Associates Inc. Pinnacle Learning Center Psychological Rehabilitation Service Q-Search, Inc. Red Pump Studio Royal King Cleaners Shapers of New Paltz Shawangunk Wine Trail MEMBER PROFILE

Paws of Distinction

Ship Lantern Inn Slotnick Signs and Designs St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital

alk your pup past Paws of Distinction on a Friday night and you’ll probably see lots of tail wagging and mingling between dogs and owners just outside the store in Water Street Market. Owner Amanda Favoino calls it “Yappy Hour,” and has held the get-together, which benefits animal charities and serves up refreshments for both puppies and people, throughout the summer and will continue it until the weather turns cold. Though the outdoor fun will be put on hold until next season, the holiday fun is just beginning. Halloween is Favoino’s favorite holiday, so the store will be decked out in ghoulish garb and stocked with canine costumes and Halloween-themed toys. The homemade treats will take on an autumn tone as well, with local pumpkin and apple playing a predominant role in the treats (like enticing apple turnovers) that Favoino bakes for the store. As it gets closer to Christmas and Hanukkah, the store also converts its display window into a specially themed scene for the Downtown Business Association’s Downtown Unwrapped. The inspiration typically comes from the newest toys of the season—one previous year she made her window a black and white theme, complete with

wool penguins and fleece polar bears. Though the decorations and seasonally appropriate dog treats are reason enough to drop by, it’s also nice to be say hello to Bob the Whippet, the resident greeter, and his stepsister Tessa, another Whippet who Favoino coined the real owner of the store. Paws of Distinction is also extremely dedicated to providing the best possible dog and cat products on the market, and ensuring that the staff are fully educated to answer any customer’s questions. “I think the number one thing that makes us unique is education. I’m crazy about knowing about my products and being fully educated about my products and having anyone else who works here to be educated,” Favoino says. “Especially in a world of pet products, there are so many dangerous and unhealthy things. You need someone to help you make your own educated decision.”

State Farm Insurance-Jim DeMaio Agency Studio One Hair Design The Culinarians’ Home Foundation, Inc. The River Connection Inc. Time Warner Cable Tom’s Repair Shop, Inc. Ulster County BOCES Ultimate Homes Inc. Under the Magenta Moon Unison Arts & Learning Center VanBuren Gallery, Inc. Walden Savings Bank Wallkill View Farm Market & Greenhouse Willow Realty Wingate at Ulster

PAWS OF DISTINCTION 10 Main Street, Ste # 313 New Paltz, NY 12561 845-255-3991 www.pawsofdistinction.net

Wright’s Farm Members who renewed between May 15 and August 15.

REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2010

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

LETS MAKE A DIFFERENCE TOGETHER A strong business community benefits the whole community. The Chamber’s communication program is designed to provide our Membership with the most useful and up-to-date information possible in a broad variety of ways. In this issue, the Chamber’s marketing department discusses how the changing technological landscape of today’s business sphere affects its communication choices.

s new technology frees the modern business owner, manager and employee from the confines of the office desk, giving them greater freedom, it presents a challenge to us: How best to communicate with a moving target? Mail only is certainly no longer an option, but sticking exclusively to e-mail and digital choices excludes those who prefer to receive their information by traditional paper methods. Over the last few years, the Chamber has worked hard to provide our members with information in a variety of ways, with the aim of reaching the largest number possible. The first major change to the Chamber’s evolving communications strategy occurred in 2007, when we transitioned our weekly News and Events and Member to Member emails to their current format using the e-mail service provider Constant Contact. This new method not only allowed us to stay current with state and federal mass e-mail laws and regulations, but provided us with a more versatile forum to share information about our upcoming events, as well as attractive layout options to share photos, news and more, making our weekly News and Events e-mail so much more than a calendar of

MEMBERSHIP SUCCESS COMMITTEE

CHAIR Patrick Turner Little Pond

Consulting Kristina Hall Pine Haven B&B Nancy Thomas-Finn Green State Services Jeff Mehl Daybreak Virtual Staffing Lucy Paradies New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce Pete Ingellis Ideal Cleaning Solutions Carol Preziosi Frecklebelly MaryBeth Boylan New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce

events and giving our Member to Member e-mails added value. In the spring of 2009, the Chamber launched its new family of publications in partnership with Luminary Publishing. With Sojourn, our seasonal guide to the Hudson Valley, Regional Report, our quarterly Business to Business magazine, and our Annual Membership Directory, we have the best of both worlds. All three publications are available in both paper and digital forms, making them easy to distribute to our Membership, area residents, potential relocators, and visitors to our region in

whichever form they find most convenient. The e-versions of our family of publications also provide a “greener” option while at the same time prolonging each publication’s shelf life, a win-win for the environment, our readers, and our advertisers. Our active presence on Facebook and Twitter is also an important communications tool. Using social networking, we’re able to communicate with you in real time and provide you with instant access to the most relevant and up-to-the minute Chamber info. Of course, we still have paper communications with our Membership. Our monthly trifold event mailing is a brightly colored reminder that the Chamber truly offers something for everyone, from professional development to networking to delicious and informative business luncheons. Along with the hard copies of our family of publications, these mailings serve a diverse section of our membership who prefer not to, or simply cannot, access this information in its digital form. Are we reaching you? Let us know what you think of our communication programs. Call us, e-mail us, or stop in to see us. We want to hear from you, and we are here to listen.

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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.

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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.

KIC Chemicals, Inc. Ulster Savings Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell LLP, CPAs

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Seven21 Media Center, Kingston

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Hudson Valley Cycle Center, Kingston

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