COMMUNITY
BUS I NES S
EDUCATION
NEW PALTZ
REGIONAL
CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE
TOURISM
REGIONAL
REPORT
WINTER 2011
A QUARTERLY BUSINESS NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
BRIDGING THE GAP Understanding the Multigenerational World By Kelley Granger
T
raditionally, workplace diversity has been measured by the number of different races in an organization. While this might still be the most noticeable indicator of a varied company, a more subtle one may bring the most important implications to the plate—multigenerational diversity. The era in which we grew up shapes our psyche, our behavior, and our outlook in our work life and beyond. Understanding the varying drivers behind different generations thoughts and actions can help set an organization’s management goals, and can also better inform interactions with clients, vendors, and target demographics. Continued on p. 12
IN THIS ISSUE
10
Crisis Communication
22
A Strong Foundation
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Member Profiles:
Crisis is inevitable, for large and small businesses. Tips for resolving emergencies.
The Chamber’s scholarship program aids both traditional and nontraditional students.
Charmed Places, NYLA Photography, Emerson Resort & Spa, New Paltz Travel Center
257 MAIN ST. NEW PALTZ, NY 12561 P 845 255 0243 F 845 255 5189 E INFO@NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG
TRUCKLOAD
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Letter from JOYCE MINARD Michael Gold / The Corporate Image
Regional Report was honored to win the Custom Content Council’s 2010 Award for Best New Newsletter.
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e’re starting off 2011 with great news for the Chamber and Regional Report, our quarterly business-to-business magazine, winner of the Custom Content Council’s 2010 Pearl Award for Best New Newsletter. Announced in November at the Annual Pearl Awards Ceremony at The Water Club in New York City, celebrating the best in custom design, editorial, and strategic initiatives for B2B and consumer publications, this year’s Pearl Awards comprised a record-breaking 569 entries, putting our Regional Report in heady company. Other 2010 Pearl Award winners include the Lance Armstrong Foundation, Augusta National Golf Club, Phoenix Art Museum, Massachusetts General Hospital, Proctor & Gamble, American Academy of Pediatrics, and Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, among many others. We’re proud to share this award with those who continue to make Regional Report possible, including Luminary Publishing, our members and readers, the Chamber board of directors, and especially our advertisers. We truly could not do it without you. Thank you. We must also use this space to extend our gratitude to those who have chosen to support the Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz annual appeal for its scholarship fund. Each year, members of this Chamber and their immediate family members begin or continue on their paths to their educational and professional goals with the financial help of these Foundation scholarships. These scholarships are a fundamental part of the Foundation’s mission to promote educational initiatives in the Hudson Valley community. February’s 3rd Annual Progressive Dinner, a fun winter’s night
Central BRIGHT Hudson LIGHTS. 1/6 Page
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on the town on February 3, featuring three fantastic New Paltz dining and spirits destinations, is a terrific way to enjoy the region while supporting the Chamber Foundation. To learn more about the Foundation, including how to give, visit www.newpaltzchamber. org and click Chamber Foundation in the left-hand column. In this issue of Regional Report, you’ll find features on Multi-Generational Human Resources Issues and Risk Management/ Crisis Communications, we get romantic in our member profiles, we introduce your new Member Relations Associate MaryBeth Boylan, and, as always, keep you up to date with your Chamber peers in our Member Updates section. It’s a joy and a blessing to embark on a New Year serving the business and civic interests of the Hudson Valley community. The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce has worked hard for more than 100 years to raise the quality of life in our region, and we are proud to play our part in making the Hudson Valley an excellent place to live, work, play, worship and do business.
Happy New Year!
Joyce M. Minard, President
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REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2011
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UPCOMING EVENTS Thursday, January 6 NPRCoC Health Plan FAQ, with MVP Health Care and Brinckerhoff and Neuville Insurance Group, Inc. Learn more about Health Insurance options available through the Chamber of Commerce and get your new plan or renewal questions answered with Joan McMahon of MVP Health Care and Donna Mills of Tri-County Planning/Brinckerhoff and Neuville Insurance Group, Inc. Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Place: New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce, 257 Main St., New Paltz Cost: Complimentary Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org Tuesday, January 11 After-Hours Mixer @ McGillicuddy’s Restaurant & Tap House, New Paltz Our first mixer of 2011! Welcome the New Year with us while building your business network at McGillicuddy’s Restaurant & Tap Room, located in the heart of downtown New Paltz. Time: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Place: McGillicuddy’s Restaurant & Tap Room, 84 Main St., New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to Chamber Members, $15 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org Wednesday, January 12 Workshop: “Cash Flow: Budgeting, Analyzing, Controlling, & Understanding” with John DeNicolo, CPA A workshop of tips, tools, and techniques for the successful management of cash flow within your business with special emphasis on cash budgeting, cash projection, and liquidity. This workshop is open to New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce members only. Time: 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. Place: New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce, 257 Main St., New Paltz Cost: Complimentary. Chamber members only. Seating is limited to a maximum of 10 attendees. Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org. Wednesday, January 19 Business Luncheon @ Ship Lantern Inn, Milton, “Be Tax Smart: Employ Tax Planning Strategies Year-Round” with Timothy Flanagan, CPA of Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni and Weddell LLP, CPAs Timing income and expense is important because smart timing can reduce your tax liability, while poor timing can unnecessarily increase it. This informative luncheon will present year-round tax planning strategies on topics ranging from family and education, charitable giving, and estate planning to investments and real estate. 4
Sponsor: Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni and Weddell LLP, CPAs Time: 12:00 noon – 1:30 p.m. Place: Ship Lantern Inn, 1725 Route 9W, Milton Cost: Complimentary to NPRCoC Corporate Partners, $20 for Chamber Members, $25 for nonmembers. Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org
Friday, January 28 Winter Business Card Exchange @ Moondance Ridge Bed & Breakfast, New Paltz Enjoy the sights, sounds and some of the delicious treats served for breakfast in the dining room at the Moondance Ridge B&B. Built in 2005, the B&B is a peaceful place for networking and enjoying homemade cherry scones and coffee before heading off to work. This event is always one of our most popular, so come prepared with plenty of business cards! Time: 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. Place: Moondance Ridge Bed and Breakfast, 55 Shivertown Rd., New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to Chamber members; $15 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org Thursday, February 3 3rd Annual Progressive Dinner Dine out and raise funds for a terrific cause! Join us for a convivial evening of delicious food and libation in three of New Paltz’s destination shops and restaurants: Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits, Beso and 36 Main Restaurant and Wine Bar. All proceeds benefit the Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz educational initiatives, including the annual Scholarship Fund. Sponsor: Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz Time: 5:30 - 9:00 pm. Place: New Paltz Cost: $75 Tickets are required. Call 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org. Thursday, February 10 After-Hours Mixer @ Vineyard Commons, Highland Our February After-Hours Mixer is your chance to check out one of the Hudson Valley’s newest upscale restaurants and sample The Bistro at Vineyard Commons’ fresh, imaginative, contemporary cuisine while making new connections and growing your network. Time: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Place: Vineyard Commons, 300 Vineyard Ave., Highland Cost: Complimentary to Chamber members; $15 non-members. Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org
Wednesday, February 16 Business Luncheon @ Historic Huguenot Street, New Paltz, featuring Ulster County Executive Michael P. Hein with a “State of the County” Update Ulster County Executive Michael P. Hein addresses his Administration’s approach to improving county government and advocating for Ulster County businesses, particularly the changes his Administration has brought to Ulster County, including restructuring certain departments and pursuing a zero percent tax increase in his proposed 2011 budget. County Executive Hein will explain how his office can assist Chamber members on regulatory matters, finding financing, and other small business matters. Sponsor: NY RideShare Time: 12:00 noon – 1:30 p.m. Place: Historic Huguenot Street, New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to NPRCoC Corporate Partners; $20 for members; $25 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org Tuesday, March 8 After-Hours Mixer and Pot-O-Gold Raffle Drawing @ Rocking Horse Ranch, Highland Do you have the $10,000 ticket? Find out at our March After-Hours Mixer and Pot-O-Gold Raffle drawing! Delicious hors d’oeuvres and terrific networking are on the menu as well. Don’t miss one of our favorite annual events! Time: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Place: Rocking Horse Ranch, 600 Route 44/55, Highland Cost: Complimentary to Chamber members and Pot-O-Gold ticket holders; $15 non-members. Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org Wednesday, March 16 Business Luncheon and 2nd Annual Wellness in the Workplace, “Lose2Win” Weight Loss Challenge Kickoff @ The Would Restaurant, Highland Join us for the 2nd Annual “Lose2Win” Weight Loss Challenge! Last year, more than 50 participants collectively lost over 200 pounds. Sign up to participate this year at this special kickoff luncheon, featuring MVP Health Care. Sponsor: MVP Health Care Time: 12:00 noon – 1:30 p.m. Place: The Would Restaurant, 120 North Road, Highland Cost: Complimentary to NPRCoC Corporate Partners; $20 for members; $25 for nonmembers. Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org
WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
CONTENTS 10
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Creating Wellness for Individuals & Businesses Clinically Proven Weight Loss Program
1
★ Lose up to 2-5 lbs/wk ★ Includes Nutrition Counseling ★ Easy to follow Lifestyle Program ★ Corporate Wellness Programs ★ Free Support Classes ★ Fun with Food
Bridging the Gap Understanding the Multigenerational World Workplace diversity is usually measured in terms of race and gender. Another way to assess a company’s diversity is by how many different generations work together. Employees of varying ages approach the idea of work itself differently; how a business handles each generation can be integral to its success.
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... and more!
www.Nutrition-wise.com VKoenig@Nutrition-wise.com 22 North Front Street New Paltz, NY 12561
845.255.2398
Crisis Communication Tips for Resolving and Preventing Business Emergencies Regional Report speaks with business owners and marketing executives about effective messaging in adverse conditions, who explain how to protect your brand while reacting swiftly and with utmost transparency.
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The Bottom Line
22
Laying a Strong Foundation
The legislation and news that affects your business: the small business credit gap, mortgage rates hit their lowest point in decades, the dividends of diversity.
The Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Scholarship Fund
ID# 23741601 Take Shape For Life Health Coach
Kimlin Propane
Since 2007, the Foundation Scholarship Fund has granted almost $10,000 to local students, both traditional and non-traditional.
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Member Profiles: The Business of Romance Regional Report checks in with some Chamber members who help keep the love-light burning: Charmed Places, NYLA Photography, Emerson Resort & Spa, and the New Paltz Travel Center.
Our Friendly Service Is REAL!
4
Upcoming Events
7
Recent Chamber Events
15
Member Updates
(845) 255-7324 Gardiner, NY
25
Member Renewals
www.kimlinpropane.com
28
Membership Matters
Serving Ulster, Dutchess, and Beyond
REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2011
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NPRCoC BOARD AND STAFF Board Officers
2011 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 COUNSEL 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 Joanne Fredenberg BOARD MEMBER Cathy Sifre BOARD MEMBER Teresa Thompson Main Street Bistro 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
ASSOCIATE PARTNER
Brinckerhoff and Neuville Insurance Group SUPPORTING PARTNERS
Health Quest Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union KIC Chemicals Inc. M&T Bank 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 Hudson Valley Regional Coalition (One Valley—One Voice) Who We Are
The New Paltz Regional Chamber, organized in 1900, is an active and trusted voice in the regional business and residential community that forges strong relationships between businesses and residents and promotes growth, prosperity, a sense of local pride, and a high quality of life in the Hudson Valley region. The newly formed Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz aids and augments the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce’s current slate of successful educational programs. The foundation envisions a comprehensive program of educational activities and scholarships, all geared toward educating and supporting the community.
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. @2011 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
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1 November Business Luncheon featured speaker Tom Edwards of Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits with Mark Suszczynski of host Harvest Café Restaurant and Wine Bar. 2 Taka Oyama of Olympix Corp. with Johannes Knoops and Susan Eckhardt of Brykill Farm at the November After-Hours Mixer, held at Upstairs on 9 Café. 3 US Representative Maurice Hinchey shares a smile with Frank Serokos of Staff-Line, Inc. at the Chamber’s special September Legislative Update Luncheon, held at Mohonk Mountain House. 4 NPRCoC board and staff members joined friends, family, and employees of New Paltz Eye Care as Elinor Descovich and Connie Rubow cut the ribbon celebrating the grand opening of their new location at 133 Main Street, New Paltz. 5 Helen Gutfruend of Bodymind Massage Therapy won the Best Costume Award at the Fall Business Card Exchange, held at the Chamber office. 6 Panelists John White of StaffLine, Inc. (left) and Patricia Stockman of The Executive Connection (right) are with Chris Drouin of Beyond Wealth Management following the Professional Development Series Panel Discussion on “Conflict Resolution in the Workplace.”
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REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2011
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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS American Solutions for Business PO Box 2261 Kingston, NY 12402 (845) 338-5722 / fax (845) 338-5780 Contact: John Burlingham E-mail: jburlingham@americanbus.com Website: www.americanbus.com Category: Advertising/Marketing
Birchez Associates LLC 104 Smith Avenue Kingston, NY 12401-2641 (845) 532-7528 / fax (845) 517-1715 Contact: K.J. McIntyre E-mail: kjmcintyre@birchez.com Website: www.birchez.com Category: Senior Housing
Catskill Mountain House 44 Continental Road Napanoch, NY 12458 (845) 647-4288 Contact: Karen Joy Leitstein E-mail: mtnhouse44@aol.com Website: www.catskillmountainhouse.com Category: Bed and Breakfasts
Choice Words—Public Relations & Grant Writing 126 Main Street New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 234-8713 Contact: Stephen Densmore Email: stvdensmore@yahoo.com Website: www.choicewordspr.com Category: Grant Writing, Public Relations
Five Star Exteriors 629 Lucas Ave. Ext. Hurley, NY 12443 (845) 339-7827 / Fax (845) 339-4089 Contact: Scott Michel E-mail: fivestarexteriors.inc@gmail.com Category: Contractors - Home Improvement
Jenkinstown Motors Inc. 37 S. Ohioville Road New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-2500, (914) 388-2548 Contact: Scott Cullen E-mail: scottlotus@gmail.com Category: Automobile Body Repair & Painting
Richard Ostrander Agency 234 Main Street, Suite 1 New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-3178 Contact: Rochelle Ostrander E-mail: rostrander@allstate.com Category: Defensive Driving
Rosendale Acupuncture 449 Main Street Rosendale, NY 12472 (845) 430-8383 Contact: Katie Finley, L.Ac. E-mail: katie@rosendaleacupuncture.com Website: www.rosendaleacupuncture.com Category: Acupuncture
Sands Salvage 4115 Route 28 Boiceville, NY 12412 8
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Simply Create 238 Main Street New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 418-1816 Contact: Keri Zurlini E-mail: contact@simplycreate.org Website: www.simplycreate.org Category: Community Service Organizations, Healing Arts
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The Eriole Law Firm Joseph Eriole, Esq. 21 So. Chestnut St., Suite 8 New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-0998 / fax (845) 839-2739 Contact: Joseph Eriole E-mail: jpe@eriolelaw.com Website: www.eriolelaw.com Category: Attorneys - General Practice
The Gunk Foundation PO Box 333 Gardiner, NY 12525 (845) 255-4374 Contact: Nadine Lemmon E-mail: nadine@gunk.org Website: www.gunk.org Category: Community Service Organizations
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KIC CHEMICALS, INC t 87 S OHIOVILLE RD t NEW PALTZ, NY (877) KIC-BULK TEL: (845) 883-5306 FAX: (845) 883-5326 BULKSALES@KICGROUP.COM WWW.KICGROUP.COM
Toshiba Business Solutions 230 N. Plank Rd. Newburgh, NY 12550 (845) 562-2468 / fax 845) 562-2707 Contact: Tom Becker E-mail: tom.becker@tbs.toshiba.com Website: www.copiers.toshiba.com/tbs Category: Office Equipment - Sales & Service
Unishippers 1313 Route 9W Marlboro, NY 12542 (845) 236-3060 / fax (845) 236-3064 Contact: John Cary E-mail: john.cary@unishippers.com Website: www.unishippers.com Category: Shipping & Commercial Freight Services
WET-TEK PO Box 1043 New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-7400 Contact: Donald Kerr E-mail: don@wet-tek.com Website: http://www.wet-tek.com Category: Executive Search
Wine Worldwide, Inc. 59 North Putt Corners Road New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-1955 Fax (845) 255-3516 Contact: Sam Ramic E-mail: wineworldwideinc@aol.com Website: www.mediterraneanwine.com Category: Wine and Spirits
New members who joined between August 16 and November 15, 2010.
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WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
TIME matters, and so do you. HAHV’s Emergency Department at the Kingston Hospital.
Frank was at the emergency department at the Kingston Hospital when his kidneys suddenly failed. Thanks to the latest improvement in our emergency department, and the dedication and compassion of our superior staff, Frank got a second chance at life.
Visit hahvcares.com to hear Frank and Michelle’s story. The new emergency care improvements at the Kingston Hospital were made with you in mind. Thanks to the input of the community, our emergency department has advanced by leaps and bounds. With our newest technologies and board-certified emergency physicians working 24/7, we are more efficient and effective than ever. We took the time to listen to you and we are always prepared to give you the care you need.
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YOU R PA RT N E R S I N H E A LT H
Healt
MESSAGING IN ADVERSE CONDITIONS
CRISIS COMMUNICATION Tips for Resolving and Preventing Business Emergencies By Kelley Granger
W
hen you own or manage a business, it’s inevitable that you’ll eventually experience a crisis. Whether it’s a public relations predicament or a full-scale safety emergency, it’s crucial that you’re able to respond swiftly and efficiently. Large corporations often have entire departments dedicated to such responses, but with forethought, even the smallest of businesses can make sure any issues are dealt with in a smooth manner. Have a Plan in Place
The first step to addressing any situation is to have a plan that will detail your response. This would include brainstorming the different situations that might affect your business, information on who would take on a leadership role in certain instances, and detailing how you will communicate internally and externally. Central Hudson created a guide that’s a huge help when it comes to providing a company-approved response to crisis situations, says John Maserjian, the director of media relations. “Usually there’s very little time to respond when a crisis happens and having a guide like this is handy because it helps to provide the steps that you’ve pre-established to handle the crisis,” he says. Not only that, but Maserjian also says that just the exercise of putting a crisis plan together is helpful for business owners because it forces you to think about what steps you may have to take, who you may have to contact or line up to assist you, and who you’d refer the media or public to for answering questions. As part of their plan, Central Hudson 10
designates a spokesperson. “One of the most important things we emphasize here is whenever possible assign a single person as a spokesperson, particularly during unusual events so that the information is complete and consistent,” says Maserjian. At the Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union, Lisa Morris, the director of marketing, says that businesses need to be careful in selecting the right person for that job. “You really want somebody that people are going to trust and relate to,” she says, “and sometimes it’s not always the owner or CEO.” There may be certain situations when it’s only appropriate to have the top leader speak, but otherwise the decision should be based on who can most effectively communicate the message to the public. Honesty is the Best Policy
Whether a situation has occurred that’s within or beyond the control of a business, there is one principle that should be paramount in the response: honesty. Barbara Kram, the corporate director of marketing for Health Quest, says this concept is of the utmost importance to them. “The Health Quest hospitals have a very transparent organization, our CEOs are very predisposed to communicating as openly and honestly as possible,” she says. Kram recounts a situation that occurred about five years ago at one of the hospitals, when a laptop that potentially contained protected patient information was stolen from an emergency room. Though the computer
was locked and access was protected with a password, in the first day or two, Health Quest wasn’t certain if there was indeed private information stored on it. Kram says they went with a policy of full transparency—they alerted the public that a laptop had been stolen, set up a credit bureau program for patients whose information may have been compromised, and hired a professional to investigate along with the police. Within a week, they’d discovered that the missing laptop did not have any sensitive information on it at all. “While it probably cost us more in the end [to tell the public],” says Kram, “at the end of the day, it was the right thing to do.” Keep Communicating
With so many ways to distribute information, it’s essential to keep up on communicating with your customers during a crisis. You can use a variety of methods to propose a solution. For example, Morris says that Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union considers all avenues— from signage to phone messages and even online or social networking updates—when determining the best way to communicate critical, timely information to members. For a company like Central Hudson, communication is imperative around the clock and takes many forms. “We’ve found that as important as restoring service as quickly and safely as possible, constant communication with customers is key,” says Maserjian. He and his team work nonstop in emergency situations pulling together information for the press, updating their website, placing
WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
informational announcements on their phone system and over the radio, and disseminating information via social media channels. Last winter, during storms that caused significant power outages, Maserjian says Central Hudson also participated in webcasts where it answered questions from Poughkeepsie Journal editors in a virtual press conference. Don’t underestimate your relationship with the media. Morris recommends building relationships with reporters and staying in contact with them. By being interactive, open, and helpful in providing information by their deadline, you can help improve the chance of making media coverage more balanced. Even if something is published that casts your business or industry in a bad light, there may still be recourse. “There was one time when the media put something in the paper about prescription prices and it didn’t look too good upon us at the time. [In response,] I wrote a letter to the paper and they did publish it,” says Bill Sheeley of Dedrick’s Pharmacy and Gifts. “Then I called the people who wrote letters to the paper on that subject and explained my position. It was fine and we ended up not looking bad in the end.” Prevention is Key
After a crisis has been resolved, don’t forget to go back and deliberate on how a repeat may be avoided in the future. Steve Turk, the president and CEO of Rocking Horse Ranch, says that his business has a very finely tuned system of keeping employees ready to not only respond to emergencies, but hopefully avoid them altogether. For example, lifeguards take part in a mandatory weekly “In Service” procedure that reviews life saving techniques, and managers meet weekly to review everything from future business to communication procedures under stressful situations. The longer you’re in business, the better the chances that you will have some sort of issue on your property, so Turk also recommends getting to know the local fire and ambulance corps. “Invite them for a walk through of your facility and repeat this on a yearly basis,” he suggests. “And review with these local EMS officials an emergency action plan that includes an appropriate communication process to fit your company’s size and scope.”
New Paltz Community Acupuncture Amy Benac, M.S., L.Ac.
$25-$40 a session
(You decide what you can afford)
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BRIDGING THE GAP Today there are four main generations—the Traditionalist (born between 1922 and 1945), the Baby Boomer (born between 1946 and 1964), Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980), and Generation Y (born from 1981 and on, also known as the Millennials and Generation Me). Each generation brings a distinct set of values to work because of the varying experiences they had growing up. Traditionalists lived through the Great Depression and World War II, when paternalistic companies were the norm and leadership (and therefore job security) was attained by a hierarchical order. Compare that to Generation Y, who has grown up with ever-evolving technology, is entering a shrunken job market, and believes leadership should be attained by skill and knowledge rather than seniority. Awareness is Key
With all the generations active and more mixed than ever in the workforce, issues in communication have been coming to the forefront. “I’ve read a couple of things on this as far as managing [different generations] and the problems that large organizations are having managing younger employees,” says Valerie Mehl of Daybeak Virtual Staffing. “My generation, the Baby Boomers, have a totally different outlook on work than younger ones do.” Being aware of the varied perspectives that can cause disagreements is the first step, and understanding these differences can make a huge impact when it comes to interactions inside and outside of the office. “I think learning more about the underlying reasons brings you closer to understanding each other and helps us broaden our outlooks,” says Diane Lustenader, president of Lake Associates Inc., a national human resources consulting firm with an office in Albany. “Someone very early in my career advised me that ‘my way or the highway’ is not the best way to approach being a supervisor. As a supervisor, your job is really to accomplish organizational goals through other people.” Being aware of differing generational ideals not only helps you in communicating with employees, but with clients as well. “A busi12
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ness will have employees and clients who are a different generation than their owner,” says Chris Drouin, founder of Beyond Wealth Management. “So if a business owner doesn’t understand how their own generation has different expectations or a different culture than others, they’re going to have trouble and miss out on opportunities.”
“If a business owner doesn’t understand how their own generation has different expectations than others, they’re going to have trouble.” —Chris Drouin The Client Connection
Being receptive and sensitive to generational gaps has helped Drouin in his business, where he deals with many clients that are from the Traditional generation. He says he’d break them into two groups—the ones who remember having and losing during the Great Depression, and those who were born into nothing. Keeping the historical influences in mind has helped him understand their perspective and better serve their needs. “Both groups are incredibly risk averse, they’re the type to stay put with a company and the way you live your life,” he says. He’s also picked up on characteristics of other generations, like the Boomers, who he says redefined society by their wants, spent lots of money when they were making lots of money, and now are redefining themselves again with smaller homes and cars as the economy shifts. Having knowledge of these changes and influences helps Drouin in communicating financial advice to his clients.
It can also be an aid when it comes to defining how you want to market to a certain audience, particularly keeping in mind the changes in media and technology during each era. Kristin Backhaus is an Associate Professor of Management at SUNY New Paltz, and covers the subject of intergenerational business in her classes. She’s noticed how different the model is when presenting material to younger generations. “To appeal to Generation Y I’d go with a briefer, sound bite model,” she says. “They’re looking for the next thing, ‘Hurry up, what’s the next point?’ That’s not the way information was communicated in the past.” For effective cmmunication with Boomers and Traditionalists, Backhaus suggests “something lengthier with more details and context—a richer message that might be more in keeping with the way that older generation is accustomed to taking data.” Employee Benefits
Though communicating more effectively with customers is certainly a good thing, perhaps the biggest benefit of a generational awareness is the rewards that can be reaped internally in an organization. Through the years, there’s been a shift in the attitude toward work. Where Boomers felt that they lived to work, Gen-X decided they would work to live. While Baby Boomers have been on the hunt for title recognition and to climb a ladder, the new Gen-Y workforce is looking for meaningful work and is more entrepreneurially driven. With all of these ideals often having to coexist in one place, it’s no wonder that there can be disagreements and dissatisfaction in the ranks. In response, there are some overarching ideas to keep in mind. For one, remember to give feedback and acknowledge employee efforts. This idea has often been associated somewhat negatively with Generation Y as a group who demands pats on the back for achievements that should be considered normal. Craig Thomas, president of Craig Thomas Pest Control, says that with his Gen-Y technicians, he’s noticed that a little more attention goes a long way in terms of retaining members of
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a generation that are more prone to jobhopping and desire more recognition. “Communication is key,” Thomas says. “You need to make them feel important. As an owner, you need to show a genuine interest in the individual, and you do that by asking about family, about their hobbies and things like that. It’s not that you want to get involved in their personal life too much, but you want to build those relationships and keep your hand on the pulse of what’s going on in their lives.” Recognizing any generation’s accomplishment is vital, but the way in which you make employees feel valued may differ from generation to generation. “No matter what generation, you should look at and acknowledge contributions,” says Lustenader. But depending on the generation, the approach may be different. Boomers, for example, are more likely to appreciate recognition for their experience and being assigned to tasks where they can accomplish the most and feel what they’re doing has value. Generation Y on the other hand, may be more receptive to an award of some sort. But whatever it is, be sincere—unwarranted praise is as bad as lack of recognition to this group. With less hierarchy and seniority involved in today’s management, some tension can also be created when younger workers are appointed in positions where older generations report to them. Ed Kort, the president of KIC Chemicals, says that they experienced an issue similar to this when his son, who is on the cusp on Generation X and Y, joined the team in a managerial position, where some older and more experienced people were reporting to him. “Along comes somebody younger, who might only be in the business 10 years, and someone might think ‘Who are they to tell me how to do my job?’” he says. “I remember we had situations where there was an older employee who wasn’t competent in comparison to [my son], and she would come to him to ask advice and then proceed to argue with him about it.” Kort says that there are instances, as in his son’s case, where younger employees are better equipped to handle operations and deal with issues, and that they deserve to be respected, regardless of age or experience level.
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BRIDGING THE GAP continued
“We have people at KIC now who really do respect his knowledge and think he’s right on about things,” Kort says. “It’s about getting the right employees into place to respect people for what they know, and on the other hand, reminding younger people that they do have to have some respect for people who are older—they still have knowledge and experience that they can learn from.” Don’t assume that someone isn’t capable of something because of their age—and that works both ways. And never ask someone when he or she is going to retire. “To be constantly asked when you’re going to retire can lead people to feeling undervalued and that time is just being marked around them,” says Lustenader. “It would be nice to ask what skills they’d like to learn this year. Don’t assume they don’t want to learn anything new, or that they can’t.” Be honest with your superior or subordinates about your preferred communication style, and ask them theirs too. Some people might prefer to be given a list of directives, while others may prefer to have the goals explained to them in detail. Beware of Stereotyping
Studying generational variances is a bit of a catch-22—while there is merit to a lot of the research that’s been done, every business should remember that each person bring their own personality and background to a position. Drouin, for instance, says the he’s on the younger side of Generation X, but has more of a traditionalist mentality—he started work very early with a paper route, then worked in a factory and full-time throughout college. While he does have a more time-honored approach to his work ethic, he’s also been more entrepreneurial and created a company where he’s designed a work environment for himself, a trait of more recent generations. Backhaus says her biggest piece of advice is to not forget that every person is a unique product. “It’s dangerous sometimes to make the assumptions based solely on generational gaps,” says Backhaus, “so think about the individual first and the generation second.” 14
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MEMBER UPDATES Dr. Scott Hill Appointed Medical Director at SLCH St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital (SLCH) has appointed Scott Hill, MD, as the Medical Director and Chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine. Dr. Hill previously served in the Emergency Department at The Mt. Sinai Hospital. Dr. Hill is board certified in Emergency Medicine, and sits on numerous medical committees and associations. In his new role, Hill will oversee emergency care delivery at SLCH’s Kaplan Family Center for Emergency Medicine in Newburgh and Littman Center for Emergency Medicine in Cornwall.
Night of 100 Pumpkins at The Bakery The Bakery in New Paltz hosted its 20th annual Night of 100 Pumpkins pumpkin carving contest. Entrants brought their pumpkins to The Bakery on North Front Street on October 30, local artists judged the pumpkins and lots of prizes, all donated by local businesses, were awarded. All pumpkin entrants received a free Jack O’ Lantern Cookie. For more information, visit www.ilovethebakery.com or call (845) 255-8840.
Dr. Bruce Nash Appointed Committee Chair for ACHP Bruce Nash, MD, MBA, chief medical officer at CDPHP, has been appointed the Medical Director Committee Chair for the Alliance of Community Health Plans (ACHP), a national leadership organization that brings together innovative health plans and provider groups that are among America’s best at delivering affordable, high-quality coverage and care in their communities.
Sustainable Community Dinner at Harvest Cafe Restaurant & Wine Bar Harvest Cafe Restaurant & Wine Bar celebrated the harvest with a Sustainable Community Dinner, featuring local and organic produce from Brook Farm, Phillies Bridge Farm, Nuzzo Farm and Kelder’s Farm as well as Chef Mark’s Organic Garden. Guest speaker, Dan Guenther discussed sustainability and the increasing importance of supporting community and local farms and naturalist and storyteller Ann Guenther retold the traditional Iroquois tale “The Three Sisters.” For more information about Harvest Café Restaurant & Wine Bar, visit www.harvestcafenp.com.
Opening of SUNY New Paltz Student Union Addition The grand opening of the new addition to the Student Union Building at SUNY New Paltz was held in September. With its internationally recognized design and light footprint on the environment, the new $13.4 million, 15,000-square-foot addition, known as the Atrium, is the first expansion to the Student Union since it was opened in 1971. The design has already won several awards. For more information, visit www.newpaltz.edu.
Stars of the Month at SLCH St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital (SLCH) has named Lynnette Ketcham, Kathy Bloss and Sister Diane Trotta, RN as its September, October and November Stars of the Month. Ketcham, of Pine Bush, has been employed by the hospital for fifteen years and is the Microbiology Supervisor in the Newburgh laboratory. Bloss, of Newburgh, has been employed by the hospital for 12 years and is the Administrative Secretary for Radiology and Physician Relations. Sister Diane, of Cornwall, is Clinical Specialist in Quality Management. SLCH employees are nominated for the award based on Stellar Service Standards.
Ulster Savings Gives to Gateway industries The Ulster Savings Charitable Foundation recently announced a $6,745 grant to Gateway Community Industries, Inc. for tool upgrades in their Kingston Work Center and Office Products division in New Paltz. Gateway Community Industries serves individuals with mental, developmental, physical and other disabilities in Ulster and Dutchess counties. For more information about the Ulster Savings Charitable Foundation, please call Jeffrey Wood at (845) 338-6322, ext. 3268.
William Weinstein ReCertified By Acupuncture Commission William Weinstein, MS, LAc, Dipl NCCAOM, in practice as Mid-Hudson Acupuncture in New Paltz and Manhattan, has been re-certified as a National Diplomate, Acupuncture, by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). The mission of the NCCAOM is “to establish, assess, and promote recognized standards of competence and safety in acupuncture and Oriental medicine for the protection and benefit of the public.” Bill focuses on pain management, support through chemotherapy and radiation, and functional health problems not immediately addressed through conventional medical care. For more information, call (845) 255-2070 or visit www.mhacu.com.
American Heart Association Go Red for Women Luncheon The American Heart Association Go Red for Women Luncheon will be held on Friday, February 25, 2011 from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at The Grandview, Poughkeepsie. The Go Red for Women Luncheon is part of the national campaign to raise awareness about heart disease and stroke, and is a fantastic opportunity for a company or organization to align its name, image, product or services with women, the issue of heart disease and stroke, and one of America’s most recognized and admired not-forprofits, the American Heart Association. Learn more by contacting Andrea Casey at (845) 905-2134 or andrea.casey@heart.org.
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.
William C. “Willie” Janeway Receives Wallkill Valley Land Trust Award The Wallkill Valley Land Trust announced that William C. “Willie” Janeway, Region 3 Director of the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, received the 2010 Conservation Award. Each year the Land Trust’s Board of Directors selects an organization or individual who has shown exemplary, visionary character and diligence in efforts to conserve the community’s unique environmental heritage. The award was presented at a reception and ceremony at Robibero Family Vineyards. For more information, call (845) 255-2761 or visit www.wallkillvalleylt.org.
Veggies & Vino! at Whitecliff Winery Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery held Veggies & Vino!, the result of a volunteer partnership with Jennifer Stack, an Assistant Professor at the Culinary Institute of America, and volunteer students from Jennifer’s nutrition class. Music was provided by The Bernstein Brothers. Five teams of Culinary students each selected a specific wine and developed recipes to complement it; attendees tasted each wine with its paired recipe and spoke with the students who designed them. For more information, visit www.whitecliffwine.com.
Ulster Savings Gives to Phillies Bridge Farm Project Inc. The Ulster Savings Charitable Foundation announced a $12,000 grant to assist the Phillies Bridge Farm Project Inc.’s efforts to update resident housing for their interns. The Phillies Bridge Farm Project is a working farm dedicated to training aspiring farmers and educating children and adults about sustainable agriculture, healthy eating, and nature exploration. For more information about the Ulster Savings Charitable Foundation, please call Jeffrey Wood at (845) 338-6322, ext. 3268. REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2011
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MEMBER UPDATES SUNY New Paltz School of Business Beefs Up Business Advisory Council
SLCH CEO Allan Atzrott Appointed to GNYHA Executive Committee
The SUNY New Paltz School of Business announced the addition of the following members to its Business Advisory Council: Melinda Beuf, Ulster County Development Corporation; Thomas Brocks, Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation; David Freer, Jr., A&M Enterprises, LLC and A&F Business Enterprises LLC; Mike Maiale, St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital, and Joyce Minard, New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce. For more information on the SUNY New Paltz School of Business and the Business Advisory Council, visit www.newpaltz. edu/schoolofbusiness and www.newpaltz.edu/ schoolofbusiness/corporate_bac.html.
St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital President and CEO, Allan Atzrott, has been appointed to the Greater New York Hospital Association (GNYHA) Executive Committee and Ventures Board. Atzrott is the first Mid-Hudson hospital CEO to be appointed to the Executive Committee. He has served on the GNYHA Board of Governors since 2006. GNYHA, founded in 1904, is a one-of-a-kind trade association comprising nearly 300 hospitals and continuing care facilities, both voluntary and public, in the metropolitan New York area and throughout the State, as well as New Jersey, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.
Coca-Cola Employees Donate to Littman Cancer Center
Arnoff Moving & Storage Holds Annual Meeting
The Littman Cancer Center at St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital (SLCH) received a $1,000 donation from the proceeds of a Coca-Cola employee BBQ. Earlier this year, Coca-Cola employees donated countless hours volunteering at SLCH’s Newburgh campus and The Johnes-Holden Home, a senior living residence affiliated with SLCH.
Arnoff Moving & Storage held their Annual Meeting & Recognition Breakfast, applauding the following employees for their milestone years of service: 5 Years: Tom Mason, Bryan Minholz, Paula Russell Anderson, Gordon Wilbur; 10 Years: Michael Cavanaugh, William Cavanaugh Sr., Michael Costa, Tyrone Davis, Richard Espey, Brian Gemmel, Roy Kremer, Tina Thorn, Jack Trow, Joe Zambelli Sr., Joe Zambelli Jr., Michael Zambelli; 15 Years: Mike Gullo, Deke Johnson, Calvin Lawrence, Robert Rainboth, Don Sagliano, Vivian Varin; 20 Years: Chris Anderson, Phillip DeSantis, William Hubbard, Darryl Lasko, Jerry Popp, Patty Traver; 25 Years: David Feldman; 30 Years: Mike Arnoff; 45 years: Ralph Dixon.
Bodymind Massage Therapy joins veterans Program Bodymind Massage Therapy is proud to participate in a countywide program for Honorably Discharged Veterans. Through Ulster County’s “Return the F.A.V.O.R.” program, Vets can apply for an ID card to get discounts at many local businesses. Bodymind Massage Therapy will be offering a discount of 15% on massage services to card holders. Vets can find information on how to apply for their benefits at www.co.ulster.ny.us/favor.html. For more information, call (845) 255-3228, visit Bodymind Massage Therapy online at www. bodymindmassagetherapy.com or www.facebook. com/bodymindmassage.
The Arts Community Glee Club Announced The Arts Community announces The Arts Community Glee Club for teens age 13-17 at The New Paltz Community Center. Instructors are Kate Weston and Nancy Owen. If you like the TV show Glee then you will love this class! Come sing, dance and perform your heart out! Email info@ theartscommunity.com or call (845) 417-8593 for more information or to register.
CDPHP Receives High Ratings from CMs The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently rated the CDPHP Medicare Choices HMO medical-only plan, HMO drug plan, and PPO drug plan 4.5 out of a possible 5 stars based on customer service, quality, and performance, based on metrics in nine categories. 16
Debra Giannotti and Maureen Cleary Join VDBDW LLP, CPAs Debra Giannotti of New Paltz and Maureen Cleary of Cornwall have joined Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni and Weddell LLP, CPAs as Administrative Assistant/Receptionists in the Newburgh office. Debra has over 15 years experience as an Executive Secretary; Maureen has seven years experience as an Office Manager. Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell, LLP, with locations at 11 Racquet Road, Newburgh, and 2622 South Avenue, Wappinger’s Falls, provide accounting, auditing, tax and business consulting services to clients in the greater Hudson Valley, as well as in other areas of New York State and New Jersey.
Dr. Anita Bhola Joins SLCH Center for Sleep Medicine St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital’s Center for Sleep Medicine welcomes Medical Director, Anita Bhola. Dr. Bhola, who is board certified in Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care Medicine and Sleep Medicine, will offer office hours at the Center every other Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. To make an appointment with Dr. Bhola or to find out more about services at SLCH Center for Sleep Medicine, call (845) 458-4899.
Historic Coverlet Exhibition at the Dorsky Museum of Art The exhibition entitled Binary Visions: Early 19thCentury Woven Coverlets from the Collection of Historic Huguenot Street will be featured at the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art at SUNY New Paltz through March 18, 2011. The exhibition is focused on a select group of loom-woven coverlets, many of which have local family provenance. United for the first time in one exhibition, the coverlets are displayed in groups that emphasize, compare, and contrast formal design elements and embody several important weaving techniques. Visit www. newpaltz.edu/museum for more information.
staff changes at Historic
Huguenot Street Christina Bark joined the Historic Huguenot Street staff as interim Executive Director; Eric Roth, former HHS Executive Director, has taken a position with Orange County Community College; Richard Heyl de Ortiz has taken on the new role of Director of Marketing, Development and Visitation; Ashley Hurlburt, Curatorial Assistant has become a full-time position; P.J. Preuss, Historic Preservation Officer, heads up the re-titled Historic Preservation and Facilities Management Department; and Nancy Gentile, Office Manager, has realigned duties which enable her help the Collections Department maintain specialized library materials.
Sheila Nelson Appointed Vice President at CDPHP CDPHP, a community-based, not-for-profit organization led by area physicians, continues its commitment to government programs that provide affordable health care for children, seniors, and low-income families by announcing the appointment of Sheila Nelson to vice president, state programs. Nelson brings 18 years of experience in government programs as well as state and federal insurance issues, including federal health reform, to her new position.
MaryRose Warcholak Promoted to Vice President at Ulster Savings Ulster Savings Bank recently announced the promotion of MaryRose Warcholak to Vice President/ Branch Administration & Business Development in their 180 Schwenk Drive, Kingston headquarters. Ms. Warcholak, of Saugerties, will be responsible for directing the bank’s branch sales, community relations, customer service, and new product development. Ms. Warcholak will also oversee the creation and implementation of a bank-wide business development initiative. She joined Ulster Savings Bank in 2003.
Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits Donates to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation On Saturday, October 30th, 2010 10% of all sales at Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits were donated
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to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Fox and Hound is proud to support “Eamonn’s Energy,” a team of cyclists, runners, triathletes and other friends, family, and “weekend warriors” dedicated to finding a cure for this debilitating disease. For the most up to date information on store events, follow Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits on Facebook: www. facebook.com/foxandhoundwineandspirits.
“Safe Drivers” Recognized at Arnoff Moving & Storage Arnoff Moving & Storage recently recognized the following professional drivers for passing stringent “Safe Driver” requirements: CDL: William Cavanaugh Sr., Ralph Dixon; Paul Dopp, Dwayne Henry, Ozzie Howland, John Hubbard, Scott Killmer, Jammie Longmire, Robert Vandemark, Lenny Williams, Michael Zambelli, Joseph Zambelli Jr.; Non Class: Roy Kremer, Kanneth Lappies, Peter McLoughlin, Peter Rafferty. For more information about Arnoff Moving & Storage, call (800) 633-MOVE or visit www.arnoff.com.
Riverside Bank Rated 5 Stars by BauerFinancial, Inc Riverside Bank, Poughkeepsie once again proudly accepted a distinguished 5-Star Superior rating from BauerFinancial, Inc. A 5-Star rating for financial strength and stability is the highest rating attainable from BauerFinancial (the Nation’s Bank Rating Firm for over a quarter of a century) and is based on the overall financial condition of the bank. Earning a 5-Star rating denotes that Riverside Bank is one of the strongest banks in the nation. Riverside Bank operates through four conveniently located offices in Fishkill, Newburgh and Poughkeepsie and can also be found on the internet at www.riversidebankhv.com.
Susanne Halsteen Koval Promoted to Assistant Vice President at Riverside Bank Riverside Bank announces the promotion of Susanne Halsteen Koval to Assistant Vice President of Marketing and Advertising. Ms. Koval began her career at the Bank in 2001 as the Executive Secretary to the Bank’s President, David MacFarland. Ms. Koval has over 25 years of experience in the banking industry. Ms. Koval is also a local watercolor artist, and has works in private and public collections. Her work can also be viewed online at www.watersue.com.
SUNY New Paltz Students Win Sculpture Awards SUNY New Paltz MFA candidate Keith Hoyt (Sculpture) was awarded the International Sculpture Center’s 2010 Outstanding Student Achievement in Contemporary Sculpture Award. Senior BFA student Elizabeth Torrey (Sculpture) received an Honorable Mention in the competition as well. Hoyt’s award winning sculpture is participating in Grounds for Sculpture’s Fall/Winter Exhibition in Hamilton, N.J. through January 9, 2011 and will travel to several more exhibitions during 2011.
Rebecca J. Hasbrouck of VDDW LLP, CPAs Receives Rising Star Award Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni and Weddell LLP, CPAs announced Rebecca J. Hasbrouck, CPA, of Newburgh received the Orange County Chamber of Commerce’s 2010 Rising Star Award. A graduate of SUNY New Paltz, Rebecca has been with the firm for 8 years.
Land Acquired by Wallkill Valley Land Trust and Open Space Conservancy
Denise Innello Promoted to Assistant Treasurer at Riverside Bank
The Wallkill Valley Land Trust and Open Space Conservancy, recently acquired an additional 11.5 miles of rail bed in the towns of Rosendale and Ulster; they found removing hundreds of tires that had been dumped along the rail bed an arduous task. Throughout the summer and early fall, volunteers led by the Wallkill Valley Land Trust and the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail Association tackled the tire dumping with a successful result. For more information about the progress of the trestle fundraising campaign, please visit the Wallkill Valley Land Trust website: www.WallkillValleyLT.org
Riverside Bank announces the promotion of Denise Innello to Assistant Treasurer in the Red Oaks Mill office. Denise has been employed with Riverside Bank since December 1997. She was promoted to Assistant Manager in October of 2007 at our Red Oaks Mill Office and has held various positions within the bank.
Susan S. Benz Promoted to Assistant Vice President at Ulster Savings Ulster Savings Bank recently announced the promotion of Susan S. Benz to Assistant Vice President / Commercial Lending in their 180 Schwenk Drive, Kingston headquarters. Ms. Benz, of Marbletown, previously served as a Commercial Loan Officer. She joined Ulster Savings Bank in 2005.
Dorsky Museum of Art Purchases Artwork The Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art at SUNY New Paltz announces the purchase of two artworks from its current Hudson Valley Artists exhibition for its permanent collection: Carrying (Pistol Packing Pupils), by Belshe/Prown and Available, by Francois Deschamps, a multi-media project including archival pigment prints, an artist’s book, and digital frame with 92 images. The purchases have been made possible through the Hudson Valley Artists Annual Purchase Award program as well as through the generosity of the participating artists.
Craig Thomas Pest Control Wins Excellence Award Craig Thomas Pest Control has been awarded a Business Excellence Award from the Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation for Small Business of the year. Craig Thomas Pest Control’s diversification strategy in a down economy grasped the attention of The Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation. Craig Thomas Pest Control offers residential, commercial, institutional and industrial pest management services along with structural repair and nuisance wildlife services to Dutchess, Orange, Sullivan, Ulster, Columbia, Greene, and Rockland Counties. For more information regarding Craig Thomas Pest Control, call (800) 255-6777, or visit www.callcraig.com.
Robert S. Ross Promoted to
Executive VP at SLCH St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital (SLCH) recently announced the promotion of Robert S. Ross to Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer. Ross has served as Vice President then Senior Vice President of operations since 2001. During his tenure he has expanded outpatient services and worked to improve SLCH’s hospitality operations.
Wallkill Valley Land Trust Seeks Donations to Restore Railroad Trestle Engineers and their crews have converged on the historic railroad trestle over Rondout Creek and Route 213 in Rosendale as the Wallkill Valley Land Trust and Open Space Institute launch a campaign to raise the $750,000 needed to complete restoration of the 114-year-old trestle. Once it is reopened, the trestle will be a major scenic highlight along the extended, nearly 24-mile Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. For more information, visit www. wallkillvalleylt.org or www.osiny.org. Donations can be made to: www.osiny.org/savetrestle.
John H. Page Joins the Board of Trustees of Historic Huguenot Street John H. Page has joined the board of trustees of Historic Huguenot Street, elected at the September meeting of the organization’s board. Page manages and operates the reconstructed 18th-century gristmill at Philipsburg Manor and has served as the executive director of The Hermitage, a National Historic Landmark in HoHo-Kus, New Jersey.
Debra Sanders Joins CDPHP Debra M. Sanders, MPA, MDIV, has joined CDPHP as Director, Network Strategy. She brings more than 20 years of health plan experience to her new post, with specific emphasis on network development and provider relations. Sanders holds a master’s in theology from New York Theological Seminary, a master’s in public administration in health care administration from Pace University, and a bachelor’s degree in economics from SUNY Albany. REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2011
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MEMBER UPDATES Cara Gentry Joins C2G Environmental Consultants C2G Environmental Consultants is pleased to welcome geologist Cara Gentry to its staff. Cara comes to C2G Environmental with her study of Philosophy of Geology at the University of Florida and a Masters degree from the University of New Haven with a concentration in Geosciences and GIS. In addition to guest lecturing and her great interest in hiking and caving, Cara is also an Adjunct Geology Professor at SUNY New Paltz. For more information, visit www.c2g.us.
SUNY New Paltz Students in Debate Competition Eight teams of students from SUNY New Paltz participated in this semester’s School of Business debate competition. Students debated timely ethical topics including using biometric technology in private workplaces and allowing hydraulic fracturing for natural gas in the Marcellus Shale area. The championship debate was on building a mosque near Ground Zero in NYC.
Red Cross Assists Ulster County Families The American Red Cross - Ulster County Chapter assisted two families forced from their homes in separate incidents in November. Red Cross Disaster Action Team members met with a displaced family after fire damaged their home in Ellenville; the American Red Cross provided temporary shelter for four adults. In a separate incident in Ulster Park, Red Cross volunteers administered shelter and food to a family of two adults and one child evacuated from their home due to an electrical emergency. For more information, visit www.ulsterredcross.org.
David S. MacFarland, president and CEO of Riverside Bank, Will Retire on July 1, 2011 David S. MacFarland, Presiden and CEO of Riverside Bank, will retire on July 1, 2011. Mr. MacFarland will continue to serve on the Riverside Bank Board of Directors after his retirement. The Board of Directors unanimously approved the appointment of John M. Davies as his successor, and Todd J. Rubino to Executive Vice President and Senior Loan Officer. A 1970 graduate of SUNY Orange, MacFarland has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Riverside Bank since 2000. For more information, visit www.riversidebankhv.com.
krystal’s wish foundation annual dinner Krystal’s Wish Foundation, founded by Nancy Rafter of Arrow Promotions will hold its annual dinner on April 16, 2011 from 6:30pm – 11:30pm at Wiltwyck Golf Club, Kingston. Funds raised through this event will enable Krystal’s Wish Foundation to continue to provide support to families that have lost an angel to SIDS, Still Birth or Miscarriage and offer education pertaining to the critical messages of risk reduction and pre-natal care. Annual dinner sponsorships available. For tickets or more information, call (845) 338-5654 or find Krystal’s Wish Foundation on Facebook. 18
More than just a quote from more than just an agent. Don’t just think you’re covered. Let someone who cares help make sure you’re covered.
Laubach Insurance Agency Steve Laubach www.nationwide.com/stevenlaubach 501 Main St. Suite 1 New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-5700 ©2006 Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. Nationwide Life Insurance Company. Home office: Columbus, Ohio 43215-2220. Nationwide, the Nationwide Framemark and On Your Side are federally registered service marks of Nationwide Mutual InsuranceCompany. Not available in all states.©2006 Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. Nationwide Life Insurance Company. Home office: Columbus, Ohio43215-2220. Nationwide, the Nationwide Framemark and On Your Side are federally registered service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Not available in all states.
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THE BOTTOM LINE LEGISLATION AND NEWS THAT AFFECTS YOUR BUSINESS Compiled by Kelley Granger policy that would see the easing of lending conditions to try to pull the housing market up, the number of mortgage applications is significantly down.
Employing a New Prejudice
According to a recent article by NPR, it’s not just the dwindling number of available jobs that are a hindrance to finding employment today—there’s speculation that those who are hiring are showing bias against taking on the unemployed. Recent statistics show that there are 25 million people in the U.S. who are unemployed or under employed, and only one job opening for every five who are out of work. One train of thought behind the prejudice is the assumption that those who have been laid off were not among the top performers in their previous companies. But the counterargument is that given the massive layoffs in the last few years, there has probably never been a more talented pool of people out of work. “With record high levels of unemployment and with people being out of work for so long now, clearly this problem and this prejudice is growing,” said Judy Conti, a representative of the National Employment Law Project, an advocacy group for low income workers and the unemployed. Mind the (Credit) Gap
A recent survey by the Federal Bank of New York showed a credit gap for small businesses—according to the study, only half of the 59 percent of businesses that responded to the poll applied for credit in the first half of 2010 and got any loan approval at all. Beyond that, three quarters said their full borrowing needs were not met. The survey culled information from 426 businesses in New York and neighboring states, and suggests that the decrease in aid (which has shrunk by $45 billion, or about 6 percent, since 2008 for outstanding loans to small businesses) is due to bad business conditions—two thirds of companies polled said their sales had dropped since 2008. Applications for business loans and new business credit lines were among the least approved items. 20
Diversity’s Dividends
Taking a Dip
Mortgage rates fell to the lowest level in decades in mid-November, marking more than a year and a half of record lows, the Associated Press reported. Though the rates would be extremely attractive to homebuyers, it’s doing little to spur the housing market due to the strain of unemployment, foreclosures, reduced income, and tight credit. The National Association of Realtors said that third-quarter sales fell by 21 percent compared to a year ago, making 2010 also the worst summer for home sales in decades. In spite of the investigations into repossession of homes, the foreclosure listing firm RealtyTrac Inc. said that banks were on track to take back more than a million homes in 2010. The pause for investigation caused a 9 percent dip in repossessions in October as compared to the previous month. Zillow Inc. also stated that the number of mortgage holders considered “upside down” on their loans shot up to 23 percent in the third quarter. Homeowners in these negative equity situations also have a difficult time refinancing even when rates are attractively low. Slow Road to Recovery
Recently released economic data shows that the economy’s recovery is looking less than optimal. Inflation rates measured by the consumer price index (and excluding food and energy) rose 0.6 percent over the 12 months preceding October 2010, which is the smallest increase in that time period since the index was introduced in 1957. Also, in spite of a
Research shows that diversity increases the success rate of a business that implements hiring practices that encourage a mixture of genders and ethnicities in the workplace. The American Sociological Review published findings that stated that higher levels of racial and gender diversity within a company’s workforce were associated with increased sales revenue, a larger clientele, a greater market share, and greater relative profits. For example, the average revenues of organizations with low levels of racial diversity are about $51.9 million, compared to the $383.8 million average for a medium level and $761.3 million for those with a high level of diversity. The research also shows that the benefits outweigh the potential negatives of a diverse workplace, which critics claim could include conflict or low group cohesiveness. “It’s likely that diversity produces positive outcomes over homogeneity because growth and innovation depend on people from various backgrounds working together and capitalizing on their differences,” said Cedric Herring, a sociology and public policy professor who conducted the research at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Winning Approval
A poll conducted by Siena College last fall showed that 64 percent of respondents had a favorable view of the incoming Democratic governor, Andrew Cuomo. According to the survey, almost half of voters saw Cuomo’s main priority as job creation, and 75 percent expressed optimism that he’d be successful in developing programs that would spur job growth. In contrast, the poll revealed that 68 percent of voters had an unfavorable view of Carl Paladino, Cuomo’s Republican competitor, including many voters from within Paladino’s own party.
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GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
(l-r) Ian McCrum, 2009 Foundation scholarship winner and Kim McCrum of Petro McCrum Consulting, LLC; Kathy Ferrusi of Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union congratulates 2010 Foundation scholarship winner, Mairead Fogarty.
LAYING A STRONG FOUNDATION The Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Scholarship Fund By Kelley Granger
F
or many people today, localism is a familiar and thriving ideal—it might involve a conscious decision to buy from a farmers’ market versus a chain grocery store and bank at a neighborhood institution instead of a national one. With the same intention of cultivating a vibrant community, the Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz has been providing an outlet to further enrich the New Paltz region through its scholarship program. The Foundation’s scholarship program differs from many in that both traditional and nontraditional students are eligible to apply and compete on the basis of their outstanding academic, athletic, and community service record. The only stipulation is that they be a member of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce, a direct relative, or an employee of a member. The money awarded may go to any form of study from the typical four-year college to a vocational program. Through private donations and the proceeds of the Annual New Paltz Garden Tour, the Annual Golf Outing, and the Annual Progressive Dinner, the Foundation has granted almost $10,000 to local students since 2007.
Traditionally Speaking
Over the past few years, the Foundation’s scholarships have been awarded to a variety 22
of traditional students, like Mairead Fogarty, who won a 2010 scholarship as she finished her last year of high school. She’s in the process of completing her degree in health education at SUNY Cortland and plans to pursue a Master’s degree with an aim to put her knowledge to use through service in the Peace Corps. She was a member of the National Honor Society in high school and will be joining the National Health Honor Society, Eta Sigma Gamma, next semester. “I am thankful to have been awarded scholarships from the community that raised me and molded who I am,” says Fogarty. “Without that, I would not be as secure in further pursuing my education and dream to assist and educate others.” Another student who benefited from the Foundation’s award is Ian McCrum. He was a 2009 winner and has been studying chemical engineering at Clarkson University in Potsdam. He was chosen to be part of the school’s honors program and recently won a $75,000 grant with a team of classmates at a competition in Washington, D.C. The money will be used to develop a pilot system for an anaerobic digestion process for use on small dairy farms. As the student team leader for the project, he says the outcome could help increase the profitability of owning small farm operations.
“I feel I have accomplished so much in the past year and owe a part of that to receiving this scholarship from the Chamber of Commerce in New Paltz,” says McCrum. Alternative Students
Though Fogarty and McCrum are the definition of a traditional student, the Foundation offers scholarships to non-traditional students too—those who may be returning to school after starting a family or deciding to switch career paths. Financial aid for adult and returning students can often be hard to come by, and research shows that the lack of funding can be a serious impediment to educational goals. According to research by the Lumina Foundation for Education, only about a third of adult students report receiving student loans, and less than a third were getting federal or state grants or private scholarships. And almost a third of adult students said that they were unaware of what financial aid was available to them. Nikki Koenig Nielson falls into the adult student category—she was a 2010 scholarship winner and put the money toward tuition and books at Albany Law School. She left a career as a consultant in New Paltz to pursue a law degree. As if it’s not difficult enough to be a law student, she manages to balance life as a mother with
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young children with work as a teaching assistant and her classes and coursework. At least Koenig Nielson has an understanding husband, Michael, who is also enrolled in college. He was a scholarship winner in 2009 and is still working as the New Paltz Highway Superintendent as he finishes his studies at Dutchess County Community College. He then hopes to go on to a business or economics program at a four-year university. Koenig Nielson says her own secret for staying on track is taking it one semester at a time, and being appreciative of any financial aid. “I like that the Foundation’s program is flexible and that it’s businesses supporting something that I think is good for our overall economy,” Koenig Nielson says.
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All of the students who’ve been winners appreciate the generous donors who are helping to make their education possible. As donors and as a community, their success is our success, and it does wonders for developing and improving the region. “It’s so important to give back to your community, and by donating you’re not only doing that but you’re supporting students in the area in pursuing further education, young or old,” says Karen Delarede, a 2008 recipient who is finishing a math degree at the College of Saint Rose. “Everyone needs a push to get them a little further, and donating to the fund in turn gives a push to the recipient. You never know how much of a help one scholarship could be.”
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FOUNDATION SUPPORT All net proceeds of the 3rd Annual Progressive Dinner on February 3, 2011 support the Foundation Scholarship Fund. See page 4 for details. To learn more or to donate to the Foundation Scholarship Fund, call the Chamber at 845-255-0243, email info@newpaltzchamber.org, or visit www.newpaltzchamber.org and click Chamber Foundation in the left-hand column.
REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2011
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MEMBER PROFILES The Business of Romance The majestic scenery of the New Paltz region provides countless opportunities for romance—chances are you’ve enjoyed the sweeping vistas that the Shawangunks have to offer with a significant other, or perhaps you’ve hiked to one of the many gorgeous waterfalls or enjoyed a picnic lunch at a scenic overlook. Mother Nature provided many of these wonderful date options, and some smart business owners have taken care of the rest. In the spirit of February 14, here are four local businesses that make love-inspired livings.
MEMBER PROFILE
New Paltz Travel Center S
ince founding the New Paltz Travel Center in 1992, Colleen Gillette has been providing a range of services to the region, including specializations in Ireland travel, Disney escapades, and now a new corporate travel division. But there’s one kind of trip that’s always especially exciting to plan: the honeymoon. Not surprisingly, she says that the most popular destinations for honeymooners are those that involve beaches, palm trees, and ocean sunsets—Hawaii, St. Lucia, Mexico, and Jamaica top the list and are renowned for their gorgeous scenery and all-inclusive options. But as an Ireland specialist, Gillette has also booked bed-and-breakfast type honeymoons for some of her clients looking for
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something a little different, from evenings at small guesthouses to overnights in castles. With all the access to travel planning and online search and booking engines these days, you might be wondering if travel agencies have become obsolete—but in fact, Gillette says it’s just the opposite. Such an abundance of information can overwhelm prospective travelers and be difficult to distill. The internet will also only search out whatever you’re putting in, whereas Gillette says through the course of a conversation she can interpret the needs and wants of couples and make suggestions based on those, often recommending destinations they may never have considered. But perks don’t end there. Travel agents also develop relationships with
certain properties, which may translate into a basket of fresh fruit and goodies, a bouquet of fresh flowers in the room, or even a room upgrade for their clients. Above all, Gillette says that honeymooners are great to deal with. “I like their excitement,” she says. “They’re very happy and going through the process is always fun. You end up being invested in their honeymoon and want everything to go well for them.” NEW PALTZ TRAVEL CENTER 246 Main St., Suite 7 New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-7706 www.newpaltztravel.com
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Image Provided
By Kelley Granger
Images Provided
MEMBER RENEWALS
Thank you! A Little Guest House A Victorian Knoll About Town Above&Beyond Cleaning Services Alfandre Architecture, PC Allstate Insurance Company —Richard Ostrander Agency American Pool Players Association Arbor Bed & Breakfast Atlas Star, Ltd. Baker’s Bed & Breakfast MEMBER PROFILE
NYLA Photography R
anking almost as important as an actual wedding celebration itself are the photographs that will become the treasured reminder of the day. “I love being able to tell a story through my photography,” says Scott Gunnells, photographer and proprietor of NYLA Photography. “One of the best parts of my job is working with clients on such a special day in their lives. Even after 12 years of weddings I still get excited to shoot weddings and I am always looking for new creative ideas to take my photography to a new level.” Just this year alone, Gunnells has traveled to Barbados, Toronto, and Jamaica to shoot ceremonies for clients from around the world, though he tends to stay in the Hudson Valley area during the spring and summer wedding months. He describes his signature style as 90 percent photojournalism and 10 percent fashion influenced formals. The result is often stunning images that play on light and scenery and take advantage of non-traditional poses. “I enjoy weddings as my style is photo-journalism,” he says. “I love covering events as they happen without altering events with too much direction or posing. Wedding photos should document the day exactly as
it happened, real-life moments happen and are not posed.” In fact, one of his most memorable shoots happened during an unanticipated downpour—often a couple’s worst wedding nightmare—which created incredible, dramatic shots in the stormy light and again as the sun broke through. It’s his favorite slideshow to show clients when they ask what happens if it rains on their day. Originally from Pennsylvania, Gunnells was living in California with his wife and working as a Hollywood nightclub manager when his career took an unexpected turn. He photographed a couple of ceremonies for some friends and before long, the images he captured also won him a clientele. In the first year, he had 25 weddings booked in spite of his lack of any formal training. He and his wife decided to pursue this passion full time and bring a west coast style of photography to the east coast—hence the fusion of New York and Los Angeles in the name of the business.
Bare Furniture Benefit Counseling Associates Bermac Home Aides, Inc. Berner Financial Services Blustein, Shapiro, Rich & Barone, LLP Bright Beginnings of New Paltz, Inc. Brookfield Farm Buttermilk Falls Inn & Spa Campers’ Barn Captain Schoonmaker’s B & B Carbon Treatment Systems, LLC CDPHP Center for International Programs —SUNY New Paltz Clove Cottages Coast to Coast Support Colucci Shand Realty —Linda Majetich-Hansen Crosspoint Solutions, LLC Daybreak Virtual Staffing, LLC Devine Insurance Agency, Inc. Donald L. Grumbine, CSW Dr. Peter Kaplan
NYLA PHOTOGRAPHY (845) 417-7341 www.nylaphoto.com
Dr. Scott I. Morrison, O.D., F.A.A.O. ED/M Strategic Solutions
REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2011
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Image Provided
MEMBER RENEWALS Elting Memorial Library Enchanted Toys Exit Realty Services FirstCare Walk-In Medical Center Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits Fox Hill Bed & Breakfast G. Steve Jordan Gallery Genco Dental Lab Glen F. Kubista & Associates Hampton Inn-Kingston Highland Manor B & B Hoover Architecture, PLLC Hudson Valley Cleaning Hudson Valley Internet Hunter Mountain Resort Ideal Cleaning Soutions Indian Ridge Preserve Inn at Orchard Heights Inn at Stone Ridge Janne Dooley, LCSW Jim Whitney Home Improvements Jingle Bell B and B John DeNicolo, CPA John J. Lease Realtors Highland Office LaBella Pizza Bistro Macticulous Main Street Bistro Man With A Van MapleStone Inn Merrill Office Products Michael Zierler, Scientific Editing Mid-Hudson Pattern for Progress Mohonk Mountain Stage Co., Inc. Mountain Meadows Bed & Breakfast Mountview Realty, Inc. New Paltz Hostel Paul’s Kitchen PC Solutions of NY
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MEMBER PROFILE
Emerson Resort & Spa W
hat could be more romantic than a personal fireplace and rose petals strewn in a jetted tub for two in your private room? Or perhaps you’re more hands on, and you’d better enjoy an amorous weekend away shoulder to shoulder with your significant other, learning to prepare savory dishes from a chef on premises. Or better yet, being (nearly) shoulder to shoulder as you’re pampered with a customized couples’ package at the resort’s luxurious spa. Keeping all this in mind, it’s pretty hard to argue with the logic of the resort’s spokesperson, Tamara Murray, when she describes Emerson Resort & Spa as a storybook romantic getaway. After all the property is already super intimate and set in the ultrascenic Catskill Mountains, with just 53 rooms total and a staff that’s ready and able to cater to every wish and whim. Guests can opt to stay in the lodge, or for more privacy, book their stay in the adults-only inn, adorned with rich, jewel-toned colors and seductive eastern inspired décor. Just in time for Valentine’s Day and winter weather where indoor activi-
ties are preferable, the resort is introducing a new spa package that will debut February 1. The package will offer couples a massage therapist who will double as massage therapy instructor, and teach techniques that they can use at home—perhaps one of the best souvenirs and ways to prolong the experience of their getaway. The package can be booked by itself or combined with a room rate— again, totally customizable to your needs. Though the setting of the resort provides a myriad of other options for dining and activities, Murray says it’s nice to have the option to just stay in. “Most of our guests that are looking for the true romantic getaway like fact that they can come stay at the inn, and if they choose to, they don’t have to go anywhere,” she says. EMERSON RESORT & SPA 5340 Route 28 Mount Tremper, NY 12457 (877) 688-2828 www.emersonresort.com
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Photo credits (clockwise from left): Cappy Hotchkiss; Image Provided; Matt Gillis.
MEMBER RENEWALS Phillies Bridge Farm Project Inc. Postage Inn Restaurant and Pub, Inc. Prism Solar Technologies Professional Computer Associates Prospect Hill Orchards Rita’s Pizzeria, Inc. Robert Waltke & Son, LLC Roots & Wings Rose and Kiernan, Inc. Sobel Orthotics & Shoes MEMBER PROFILE
Charmed Places F
or Lydia FitzGerald, it’s all about location. That’s the crux of Charmed Places, the business that she took over just a year ago, which specializes in scouting the ultimate wedding locations in the region and arranging the entire event, right down to the tiniest detail. Coming from a background in corporate events, FitzGerald says she loves the more personal aspect of helping couples plan their special day. Since taking over ownership of Charmed Places, she’s been working hard to develop relationships with a number of unique locations in the Hudson Valley area—including wineries, barns, and private estates—so that she can offer something distinctive and tailored to the couple she’s working with. “We can do your event in whatever style your wish is, whether it’s in an open field, at a winery, or a barn dance,” she says. “Whatever that wish is we can create those environments.” There are three environments that seem to always top the most-sought-after list. First are those that have a Hudson River view—she might seek out locations overlooking the river in Rhinebeck or Garrison. Couples also like to exchange vows in barns, which can range from classic, weathered looking barns to brand new ones. Also in the top three is any location with a mountain view or some kind of special landscape feature. FitzGerald says she’s arranged events near apple orchards and ones that have featured post-ceremony bonfires. A location is especially desired if it
can provide the opportunity for her to create multiple atmospheres within the same property. One of the best things about Charmed Places is the fact the FitzGerald offers her services so flexibly—you can use her expertise as much or as little as you need to. For example, she can help couples define their goals and vision of the wedding day by taking them on a guided day tour to introduce them to the properties she’s hand-selected for them based on the criteria the couple has shared with her. Then the couple can go on to put the wedding together themselves, or hire her as a planner—then she’ll take care of everything, from helping choose the right vendors to maintaining a timeline to helping plan the morning-after brunch. “At Charmed Places, our focus is really on creating a unique experience for our clients,” FitzGerald says. “I know for myself the level of effort that I put in to each and every event. It’s so important that the client has a good experience and that the vendors work well as a team. Those are my priorities for every single event.”
St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital Center for Rehabilitation Stonegate Bed & Breakfast Sunray Mobility Services, Inc. SUNY Ulster Super 8 of Highland Tantillo’s Farm Market Terrace Hill Associates, Ltd. That Look Interior Design The Arts Community The Corporate Image Photo Studio The Orchard Café & Caterers Thomas and Corinne Nyquist Foundation Times Herald-Record TVB Enterprises Ulster County Tourism Van Vliet Orthodontics Wallkill Valley Land Trust Wendie Reid Realty Westwood Metes&Bounds Realty,Ltd —Sandra Reid Whispering Pines Bed & Breakfast Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery, LLP Wilklow Orchards
CHARMED PLACES P.O. Box 235 New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-2475 www.charmedplaces.com
Yussel’s Place Judaic Art & Gift Gallery Members who renewed between August 16 and November15, 2010.
REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2011
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MEMBERSHIP MATTERS
LETS MAKE A DIFFERENCE TOGETHER A strong business community benefits the whole community. In this issue, meet your new Member Realtions Associate, MaryBeth Boylan.
MaryBeth Boylan
I
n my previous life as a social worker, my focus was always on listening, offering support, and connecting people to resources. Moving into the Chamber world seemed to some a daring change, a bold decision, a sharp turn in my career. For my part, I relished the opportunity to apply my skills to this new task, getting out there to talk to Members, introducing myself, learning why they continue in their membership and where they find the most value. Networking, connections, referrals, community, support. I heard it time and time again in my first
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few weeks with the Chamber. I had spent 10 years honoring and striving to provide the very same things in a different setting and, as each day passed, I found new confirmation that this was a match. On one early visit, a member specifically asked me if we might introduce an opportunity for small group conversations. He thought that sometimes it was difficult or intimidating to jump right into a large mixer. A light bulb went on: We already offered it! Held monthly at the chamber office, our BizConnect is a chance for 6 to 10 members to get together and talk––really talk––about what is going on in their businesses. No agendas, no cocktails (sorry!) just conversations and connections. Different members each month mean diverse discussions. There is no telling where the dialogue can go. Again, my expertise and previous experience makes this something I can relate to. The growing energy of BizConnect is apparent in its capability to connect members in a different way than other events provide. Come share your concerns, introduce a specific topic or just sit and listen, taking it all in. You are certain to feel the support in the room, gain feedback and ideas from other Chamber members and make genuine
connections. Because of the intimate size, please call us to be put on the invite list for upcoming BizConnect meetings. Quickly I have learned that the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce is about providing members with the tools they need to make connections and support each other, to grow business and create a sense of community. My daring change, my bold decision, my sharp turn is the most natural thing in the world. I look forward to connecting with our membership and using my experience to help the Hudson Valley business community continue its robust growth. I am here for you. Please feel free to call, email or stop in to visit me at the Chamber office. MEMBERSHIP SUCCESS COMMITTEE
CHAIR Patrick Turner Little Pond
Consulting Lucy Paradies New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce Pete Ingellis Ideal Cleaning Solutions Carol Preziosi Frecklebelly John McCormick Creek Locks Bed and Breakfast MaryBeth Boylan New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce
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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 700 active Chamber members, and countless Hudson Valley residents, including a full 12 months of visibility in every Chamber publication, communication, and event. Customized personal service from the Chamber’s expert staff, including communications designed exclusively to keep you informed. We invite you to choose from four elite Corporate Partner membership categories: Principal, Leading, Associates, and Supporting.
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