REGIONAL
REPORT
FALL 2013
A QUARTERLY BUSINESS NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Obamacare
AND THE SMALL BUSINESS
What You Need to Know
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Healthy Mind, Healthy Body, Healthy Economy Eating locally grown food isn’t just about eating healthy veggies—it’s also part of the virtuous circle of interconnected local businesses.
By Tod Westlake
hether you love it, hate it, or feel ambivalent about it, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act looks like it’s here to stay. The law, sometimes referred to as “Obamacare,” and which was signed by President Obama in March, 2010, has had its vociferous critics, no doubt; the U.S. House of Representatives, in fact, has voted a total of 40 times in an effort to either repeal or defund the law. But these efforts have fallen short, and the political momentum to undo the measure, which some people fear will be a giant bureaucratic boondoggle, appears to be waning. Continued on p. 14
IN THIS ISSUE
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The Bottom Line SUNY Ulster celebrates 50 years; unemployment rate drops in Ulster County; taxes to be big issue in 2014 statewide elections.
Member Profiles New Paltz Kayaking Tours, Ulster Savings Bank, Gardiner Athletics, Botanica Massage & Wellness
257 MAIN ST. NEW PALTZ, NY 12561 P 845 255 0243 F 845 255 5189 E INFO@NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG
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A Degree...and an education.
]
partnermainstayserviceimpact
resource CRREObachelorsmusEumlibrary
One of the most well-regarded public colleges in the nation, New Paltz offers nearly 100 undergraduate degrees, 50 masters degrees, 2 post master’s degree programs and one joint doctoral program. Through its mission of education and civic engagement, New Paltz stands out as an active contributor to the schools, businesses, non-profit organizations and economic vitality of the region and serves as a vibrant intellectual and creative public forum for Hudson Valley residents.
S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y O F N E W Y O R K
www.newpaltz.edu • 845-257-7869 2
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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
When you save money with Central Hudson
Business is Good. Life is Better.
Communitymaking is an essential part of our mission.
W
ith the 12th anniversary of 9/11 being just a few weeks ago, we at the Chamber recall that day when time seemed to stop. We all watched the horrors unravel live on television and felt simultaneously detached and intensely connected to the people and horrific events that were unfolding. Many of us lost loved ones, friends, or coworkers that day. Some of us lived to survive and tell our stories. We also recall the feeling of patriotism and camaraderie that everyone felt for one another for quite some time during the aftermath. It was an unexpected but pleasant sideeffect of an unspeakably horrible tragedy. We opened doors for each other. We said “please”, and “thank you.” The whole country was one community. Partially because of 9/11, the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce staff understands the value of coming together as a community in a deep and essential way. Additionally, we have all owned and operated our own small businesses, which has imbued in each of a us a deep sense of the importance of community involvement. The Chamber works hard every day for our community, whether it is navigating the labyrinth of regulations involved with the new health care laws, to advocating for a more fair portioning of the county sales tax, to creating community events like our recent 23rd Annual Taste of New Paltz, communitymaking is an essential part of our mission.
e. opl Pe
While it’s true that the new health care regulations, nutrition, exercise, and finances contribute to our personal and community’s overall health, we also posit that volunteerism and community involvement is another essential aspect of personal and business health. When we volunteer, whether it’s planting flowers for our town, mentoring a child, cleaning up vandalism, or answering phones, the sense of togetherness it offers for both the community as well as the individual is essential for thriving communities to exist. It’s even in the word; community—to commune with—to be at one with each other…together. We were fortunate to be a part of the SUNY New Paltz Volunteer Fair on campus this past 9/11. But let’s nurture our community’s health all year long by volunteering our time and efforts to someone in need. Whether you volunteer at the Chamber of Commerce, at one of dozens of worthy organizations in the area, or simply for family and friends, volunteerism is one way we can heal and nurture community. Sincerely,
Michael Smith, President, New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce
Power. Possibilities.
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REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2013 3
“ Our job is to give you the tools you need to improve your health.” Dr. John Bennett, President & CEO, CDPHP®
Health care reform is here, and things are changing. But our commitment to employers, members, and health care providers will never change. We’re here to deliver the best coverage, health plans, and information to meet your needs today and tomorrow. It’s what we mean when we say we want to be your plan for life. To learn more, call CDPHP at 1.800.993.7299.
www.cdphp.com
Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan, Inc. • Capital District Physicians’ Healthcare Network, Inc. • CDPHP Universal Benefits,® Inc.
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REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2013 5
UPCOMING EVENTS Thursday, October 10
Thursday, December 5
October After-Hours Mixer at Barnaby’s, New Paltz
Holiday Dinner at Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz RAIN DATE: December 12
Join us for this fun mixer with delicious snacks and a cash bar at this popular New Paltz steakhouse and restaurant. Time: 5:30 p.m–7:30 p.m. Cost: Free for Chamber members, $15 for Not-Yet-Members Wednesday, October 16
October Business Luncheon on the Rosendale Trestle, Rosendale After four years of renovation the Rosendale Rail Trestle opened this past June as a destination for pedestrians, hikers, cyclists, equestrians, and cross-country skiers to take in stunning mountain and river views. Join us for a special luncheon 150 feet above the Rondout Creek as we dine on the span and hear featured speaker and Executive Director of the Wallkill Valley Land Trust, Christine DeBoer, speak about the project and future plans to renovate the rail trail. Time: 12:00 p.m.–1:30 p.m. Cost: Complimentary to Corporate Partners; $20 for Chamber members, $25 for Not-Yet-Members. Rain date: Thursday, October 17. Friday, October 25
Autumn Business Card Exchange at Wired Gallery, High Falls Is your business card a work of art? Maybe, and maybe not, but you can see it and an array of others in an art gallery during this quarterly business card exchange. Join us for a light breakfast, enjoy some art, and meet new business contacts at Wired Gallery! Time: 7:30 a.m.–9 a.m. Cost: Free for Chamber members, $15 for Not-Yet-Members. 6
Tuesday, November 12
November After-Hours Mixer at Minnewaska Lodge, Gardiner Nestled upon 17 acres at the base of the rugged Shawangunk Mountains lies the Minnewaska Lodge, a uniquely designed 26-room property in the quaint town of Gardiner, and host to this autumnal gathering. Surrounded by 25,000 acres of State park preserve, with breathtaking views of the Gunk’s Ridge 1,200 feet above the lodge, this Hudson Valley hotel offers a tranquil boutique experience as well as flexible Hudson Valley meeting space for gatherings of anywhere from 14 to 60 attendees. Time: 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m Cost: Free for Chamber members, $15 for Not-Yet-Members. Wednesday, November 20
November Business Finance Luncheon at Gomen Kudasai, New Paltz This is an important Japanese restaurant saying: “If you eat good food, you will be naturally healthy.” Join us for our annual Finance Luncheon at Gomen-Kudasai Japanese Restaurant, where we’ll discuss the health of our business finances and where they’ve transformed traditional recipes by using local, organic, Japanese ingredients for healthy, delicious meals. Time: 12:00 p.m.–1:30 p.m. Cost: Complimentary to Corporate Partners; $20 for Chamber members, $25 for Not-Yet-Members.
The halls will be decked to the hilt at Mohonk Mountain House for our annual Holiday Dinner. It promises to be a feast for the eyes as well as for the palate. Reservations are necessary for this event and must be received by the Chamber no later than November 29. Time: 5:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. Cost: $70 for Chamber members, $85 for Not-Yet-Members. Wednesday, December 11
Corporate Partner and Board of Directors Dinner at Elmrock Inn, Stone Ridge Time: 5:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Cost: By Invitation Only. Free for Corporate Partners and New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Tuesday, December 17
December After-Hours Mixer at TuthillHouse at the Mill, Gardiner Join us for our annual year end mixer as we partake in home made American cuisine in an historic 1788 grist mill. TuthillHouse at the Mill Restaurant & Tavern’s menu is inspired by Italian and American country cooking, featuring fresh, local artisan products and ingredients of the Hudson Valley and promises to be a festive location for this holiday-time event. Time: 5:30 p.m. –7:30 p.m. Cost: Free for Chamber members, $15 for Not-Yet-Members. For more information, call the Foundation at 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org.
WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
CONTENTS
Get Smart Small Business Financing from Empire State Bank: SBA Financing Business Loans Commercial Real Estate Financing
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MEMBER PROFILES Our Own Back Yard. Regional Report checks in with New Paltz Kayaking Tours, Ulster Savings Bank, Gardiner Athletics, and Botanica Massage & Wellness.
obamacare and the small business WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Love it, hate it, or feel ambivalent about it, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is here to stay. The federal mandates for health insurance taking effect in 2014 will have a huge effect on both employers and employees. Local health care experts offer insight into the changes that are coming down the pike as of January 1.
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HEALTHY MIND, HEALTHY BODY, HEALTHY ECONOMY
www.esbna.com Newburgh 845-561-0003 845-256-0003 New Paltz Staten Island 718-351-0590
Loan Hotline: 1-877-413-6557
LOCALISM IS GOOD FOR YOU AND THE COMMUNITY Eating locally grown food isn’t just about eating healthy veggies—it’s also part of the virtuous circle of interconnected local businesses supporting a healthy regional economy.
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The bottom line
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EVENTs & program SPOTLIGHT
SUNY Ulster celebrates its golden anniversary; insurance premiums associated with Obamacare lower than expected; the unemployment rate drops in Ulster County; taxes to play a major role in 2014 statewide elections.
After four years of renovation, the Rosendale Rail Trestle is now open. On October 16, the Chamber hosts a very special lunch 150 feet above the Rondout Creek. Join fellow Chamber memebrs for a year-end mixer at Tuthillhouse at the Mill Restaurnat and Tavern on December 17. The Chamber’s new relationship with Target Marketing is bringing three new points of added value to membership: The Map, the App, and the Card.
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Upcoming Events
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Recent Chamber Events
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Member Updates
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Member Renewals
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Membership Matters
e e l s peeasign d custom designed and uniquely built furniture and cabinetry
clark peaslee 82 rocky hill road, new paltz, ny 845.594.1352 www.peasleedesign.com
REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2013 7
NPRCoC BOARD AND STAFF Board Officers
2013 CORPORATE PARTNERS
CHAIR Frank Curcio Merrill Lynch
Capital Partner
1 ST VICE CHAIR Mindi Haynes Vanacore, DeBenedictus,
Health Quest
Leading Partner
DiGovanni & Weddell, LLP, CPAs
2 ND VICE CHAIR Glen F. Kubista Glen F. Kubista & Associates
Complete Benefit Solutions
SECRETARY Dr. David Ness Performance Sports and Wellness
Associate Partners
TREASURER Kay Hoiby Free Fall Express, dba Blue Sky Ranch
Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corp.
LEGAL COUNSEL James Yastion Law Offices of James Yastion, PLLC
Ulster Savings
PAST CHAIR Chris Drouin Beyond Wealth Management
Supporting Partners
Board of Directors
HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley
Tom Edwards Fox & Hound Wine and Spirits
Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union
Connie Harkin Ulster Savings
KIC Chemicals, Inc.
Barry Henck Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corp. Paty Lott Gray Owl Gallery Walter Marquez Water Street Market Trista Parker Health Quest Dr. David Ness Performance Sports and Wellness Lisa Sandick SUNY New Paltz Foundation Craig Shankles PDQ Business Printers Maureen Sheehan Pamal Broadcasting John Sorlie Empire State Bank Sue Van Voorhis M&T Bank EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE LIASION Walter Marquez Water Street Market EMERITUS MEMBERS Robert Leduc Mohonk Mountain House Rick Lewis Riverside Bank Scott Schaffrick New Paltz Police Ernie VanDeMark Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corp. Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz Board OF DIRECTORS Chair Sue Van Voorhis M&T Bank
Empire State Bank
The Law Offices of James Yastion, PLLC Luminary Publishing M & T Bank Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni and 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) Mid-Hudson Pattern for Progress Southern Ulster Alliance 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 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.
Secretary Theresa Thompson Main Street Bistro Treasurer Michael A. Smith New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce PAST Chair Kathy Ferrusi Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union Board members: Christine Crawfis Unison Arts Center Christine DeBoer Wallkill Valley Land Trust Marsha Jones New York Life Joyce Minard Cathy Sifre Ernie VanDeMark Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp. Chamber Staff Michael A. Smith President Helen Gutfreund Director of Marketing & Communications Megan Gelber Administrative Assistant Peter Ingellis Director of Membership
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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. @2013 New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written permission is strictly prohibited. Publishing services provided by Luminary Publishing. Luminarypublishing.com.
WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
RECENT CHAMBER EVENTS 1
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1 SSummer Business Card Exchange at Hurd’s Family Farm, Modena. 2 Summer Business Card Exchange at Hurd’s Family Farm, Modena 3 STS Ribbon Cutting, Gardiner 4 New Member Reception at Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits 5 New Member Reception at Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits. 6 After Hours Mixer at A Tavola, New Paltz. 7 After Hours Mixer at Mohonk Preserve.
REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2013 9
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS ABEND ACUPUNCTURE 440 State Route 32 North New Paltz, NY 12561 646-228-6463 phyllisabend@earthlink.net www.abendacupuncture.com Contact: Phyllis Abend Acupuncture, Healing Arts, Massage ADP 80 Washington Street, Suite 304 Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 845-532-1919 Fax: 845-437-5100 bobby.blau@adp.com www.adp.com Contact: Bobby Blau Payroll Services CURBSIDE CUISINE 4 Duzine Road New Paltz, NY 12561 845-401-1237 Contact: Paul Schembri Food Truck DALAN ADJUSTMENT 633 Gidney Avenue Newburgh, NY 12550 854‑568‑5500 Fax: 845‑568‑3433 lesliedalanadjustment@gmail.com www.dalanadjustment.com Contact: Leslie Wayne‑Catanzaro, Private Insurance Adjuster Adjusters‑Insurance DP SALES PRO 81 Horton Road Washingtonville, NY 10992 845‑649‑2727 Debra@dpsalespro.com www.dpsalespro.com Contact: Debra Pearlman Business Development ENTHUSIASTIC SPIRITS GUEST HOUSE 401 Guilford Road New Paltz, NY 12561 10
845‑256‑1122 stay@enthusiasticguests.com www.enthusiasticguests.com Contact: Carl Zatz Lodging Resources, Bed and Breakfasts FRANZ AUTO SERVICE, INC. 117 North Chestnut Street New Paltz, NY 12561 845‑255‑5575 Fax: 845‑255‑5588 franzautoservice@live.com Automobile Service JOE’S WASH-N-GO CARWASH 1102 Route 32 Rosendale, NY 12472 845‑658‑7123 joeswashngo@gmail.com Contact: Joe Pascoa Automobile‑Car Wash KEVIN F. KELLEY, BOOKSELLER PO Box 488 New Paltz, NY 12561 845‑619‑5090 Fax: 845‑419‑5090 books@kevinkellybookseller.com www.kevinkellybookseller.com Bookstores, Antiques KEY BANK 16 Wallkill Avenue Wallkill, NY 12589 845‑895‑2011 Fax: 845‑895‑1186 jeff_burns@keybank.com www.keybank.com Contact: Jeff Burns, Branch Manger Banks MIRACLES DAY SPA AND NATURAL SKINCARE 814 Hoagerburgh Road Wallkill, NY 12589 845‑702‑3526 spamiracles@gmail.com www.spamiracles.com Contact: Christina Powers Healing Arts, Spas/Full Service
NOVELLA’S NEW PALTZ 2 Terwilliger Lane New Paltz, NY 12561 845‑255‑2122 smd2771@yahoo.com www.NovellasNP.com Contact: Dawn Stewart‑Harris, General Manager Catering Hall POSH PET SPA AND BOUTIQUE 19 North Front Street New Paltz, NY 12561 845‑255‑2439 poshpetspaboutique@gmail.com www.poshpetspaboutique.com Contact: Christine Seward Pet Services RE>THINK LOCAL 291 Main Street Beacon, NY 12508 845‑790‑8110 ajax@rethinklocal.org www.rethinklocal.org Contact: Ajax Greene Business Associations RITTENHOUSE PAYMENTS 2600 South Road ‑ Suite 279 Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 845‑418‑7992 800‑831‑0330 aperryrittenhousepayments@gmail.com www.rittenhousepayments.com Contact: Andy Perry Payment Processing/Payment Card TARGET MARKETING 7766 Ewing Boulevard - Suite 200 Florence, KY 41042 800‑933‑3909 866‑792‑6166 mschenthal@chambermaps.com www.chambermaps.com Contact: Mark Schenthal, Vice President of Business Development Publishers
WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
THE RIES GROUP 102 Windsor Highway New Windsor, NY 12553 845‑561‑2991 Fax: 845‑561‑4097 scott@reisinsurance.com http://www.reisinsurance.com Contact: Scott Yerves Insurance Services VERIZON WIRELESS AT WIRELESS ICON 234 Main Street New Paltz, NY 12561 845‑256‑1777 845‑256‑1779 vzwpremiumretailer@wirelessicon.com Contact: Raj Singh Wireless Services VILLAGE MARKET & BAKERY 125 Main Street Gardiner, NY 12525 845‑255‑1234 845‑255‑5579 karen.villagemarket@gmail.com www.villagemarketandbakery.com Contact: Karen Schneck Restaurants, Catering WALLKILL VALLEY FEDERAL SAVINGS & LOAN 23 Wallkill Avenue PO Box 290 Wallkill, NY 12589 845‑895‑2051 845‑895‑2555 mflickenschild@wallkill.com www.wallkill.com Contact: Melissa Flickenschild, Sr. Residential Load Officer Banks Banks WHITE HERON RETREAT 428 Springtown Road New Paltz, NY 12561 914‑388‑0632 amymctear@yahoo.com www.whiteheronretreat.com Contact: AmyMcTear Bed and Breakfasts New members as of August 25. REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2013 11
HEALTHY, WEALTHY, & WISE
HEALTHY MIND, HEALTHY BODY, HEALTHY ECONOMY Localism is Good for You and the Community By Tod Westlake
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all is one of the best times of the year when it comes to fresh fruits and vegetables. And, with all the wonderful farms in the New Paltz area, getting our hands on this produce couldn’t be easier. In addition to being good for us, locally harvested veggies are often a lot more flavorful than the stuff that comes out of factory farms. And the purchase of this local produce, and eating at local restaurants that utilize local ingredients, also ensures that our farmers stay in business. Eating your vegetables, therefore, isn’t just about your individual health, but also about the health of the local economy. Wright’s Farm in Gardiner is one such local farm stand. Open year-round, Wright’s has a terrific selection of apples and pears during the fall months (if you’ve never experienced a honeycrisp apple, you don’t know what you’re missing), as well as a number of fall produce. Wright’s is also a great place to purchase your pumpkin for Halloween. They even have sugar pumpkins if you’re keen on making a pumpkin pie from scratch. All of this is either produced by Wright’s, or it comes from very close by.
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“It is the act of creating habits—good, healthy habits— that will reinforce your health picture in the future.” —Vicky Koenig, Registered Nutritionist
“I always say that we were buying local before it was popular to buy local,” says Tammy Boylan, one of the owners of Wright’s. Boylan says that this philosophy extends not just to the produce that Wright’s stocks, but also to the decisions she makes day-to-day when it comes to other kinds of purchases, for example shopping at locally owned businesses for her own day-to-day needs.
“We have always bought local,” Boylan says. “We have always gone to the closest place to purchase what we need, because these are our neighbors.” Boylan also points out that the character of this area is defined by our farmlands, and we have this beautiful view-shed as a result. If these farms can’t remain viable financially, all of this could change. “If you really want to keep your surrounding area looking the way it looks, you should definitely buy your fruits and vegetables locally,” Boylan says. In addition to fall fruits and vegetables, Wright’s also has a selection of other local products, including artisanal items like jams, pickled vegetables, and cheese that are available year-round. “I make the jams [and can] as the stuff comes into season,” says Boylan. “[Recently] we made pickled beets and blackberry scones. Everything is from our stuff that we grow, whether it’s the jams or the pies, etc.” Wright’s has also begun to sell eggs and free-range chicken, all of which is locally raised. And anything Wright’s brings in from
WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Farmer’s Market offerings from Wright’s Farm in Gardiner.
other producers is also very local. Boylan says that the farthest she goes is Orange County, but that the majority of products she brings in are from Ulster County. Another important aspect of this farm bounty is that we are what we eat. Vicky Koenig, who is a registered nutritionist in New Paltz, says that the food we eat plays a huge role in how we feel. “Food heals,” Koenig says. “When we eat well it promotes health. And when we change the way we eat, and incorporate healthy meals and a healthy lifestyle, then our risks of health conditions, and of disease, are reduced.” Part of this includes the development of good habits, though many of us will be a bit more familiar with habits of the “bad” variety. Koenig says, however, that it’s not a big deal to indulge in junk food every once in a while, as long as this doesn’t become a negative habit. “It is the act of creating habits—good, healthy habits—that will reinforce your health picture in the future,” Koenig says. Some of this can be accomplished, Koenig says, by being more aware of what you are
eating when you dine out. And there are a ton of restaurants in this area that cater to the health-conscious. “There are a lot of really good healthy-food restaurants in this area,” Koenig says. “We are blessed with that, from the Village Tea Room, to Karma Road.” Ajax Greene, who is executive director of Re>Think Local, an important group that promotes “localism” in the New Paltz area, says that buying local produce is really a great way to do your part helping local business and, by extension, helping the local economy. “Shopping at farm stands, and/or CSAs (community supported agriculture), is really the best way to shop local,” Greene says. “Not only is the retail stand local, but the produce is local. So it’s 100-percent local.” Greene says that some retail establishments, even health-food stores sometimes, may not be getting locally grown produce from their distributors. And, if you go to the supermarket produce section, you can’t help but notice the stickers on many fruits and vegetables indicating that they were
grown in far-off places such as Chile. While it’s wonderful to be able to eat fresh fruit from halfway around the world, and these producers do provide jobs, the economic impact is less than it would be if the food was produced locally. But the definition of what constitutes “local,” geographically speaking, is perhaps a bit unclear. If a local supermarket is selling vegetables grown in northern New Jersey or eastern Pennsylvania, is that local? Certainly more so than an apple produced overseas would be. Greene says that he defines “local” as an item that was produced here in the Mid-Hudson Valley. To shop for retail items that were produced in this area exclusively, however, isn’t always possible. Sometimes we need a new smart phone or automobile. But it’s important to try to find a local resource, if possible, according to Greene. “The term ‘Think Local First’ was created to say, when you vote with your money, make it count the best way you can,” Greene says. “So, that means every time you spend money, think local first.“
REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2013 13
OBAMACARE AND THE SMALL BUSINESS And in the next few months Americans will begin to see some of the most significant effects of the new law. In October, new Health Insurance Exchanges are scheduled to begin coming online in each state. These exchanges, which will be run by respective state governments or the federal government, will be offering standardized health insurance policies that have been approved to receive the new federal subsidies that are also part of this gargantuan overhaul of the country’s health insurance system. These exchanges must also meet important federal certification requirements by January 1, 2014, so there is a lot of behind-the-scenes work being done. Some of this work is occurring in the New Paltz area, as local healthcare providers, insurance companies, and small businesses confront a steep learning curve. But there is help available. The state has set up NY State of Health (www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov), a website that is part of the NY Health Benefit Exchange, the new insurance marketplace, and it will help individuals to shop for, compare, and buy insurance. The exchange will also give small businesses a range of options from which to choose when it comes to providing their employees with health insurance. “In order for these exchanges to work, the broker has to buy into it,” says Bob McCaig of Naccarato Insurance. “The real positive thing is that individuals now, or sole proprietors, can get these plans through the exchange, where [plans] weren’t really available before.” McCaig says, and anyone who has shopped for individual insurance can attest to this, that individual insurance plans can run up to $1000 per month or more, with family coverage often costing more than three-times that amount. “So, you’re going to have that option as an individual,” McCaig says. “And everything will be controlled by the state.” McCaig worries, however, that the new law inserts an extra layer of bureaucracy into an already complex system. As it stands now, if customers have problems with their coverage, having a procedure approved, for example, they can simply call their insurance agent to act as a knowledgeable intermediary. But, if 14
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“ The real positive thing is that individuals now, or sole proprietors, can get these plans through the exchange, where plans weren’t really available before.”—Bob McCaig, Naccarato Insurance you purchase a policy through the exchange, these same insurance agents will now have to call the state, according to McCaig. The state will then act as the intermediary and contact the insurance company to resolve the issue. “If you have an issue that you need to get resolved right away,” McCaig says, “you call me and I can call directly to the carrier and get you a response, or get the problem corrected, right away. I can’t do that if you’re in the exchange, even if I’m your broker. I have to call the exchange, the exchange then calls the carrier. I’m not so sure how efficient this is going to be.” Overall, McCaig feels that the ideas behind the new law are pretty solid. The big question is in regard to its implementation, which he feels is likely to undergo significant growing pains. “The concept is good, especially the part that deals with sole proprietors and individuals,” McCaig says, adding that he always found it difficult to find an affordable policy for these folks. And, if you are an individual who is interested in finding out more about whether you will have an affordable option under the new system, McCaig recommends speaking to an insurance broker who is certified as having expertise in this area. “Contact one of those brokers, the state will have a list of certified brokers, and have them take you through the process,” McCaig says. Chamber members, in fact, can contact
President Michael Smith, who is a licensed insurance broker and can help to advise you or your business when it comes to navigating this process. David Ping, who is the Senior Vice President of Strategic Planning for Health Quest, based in Lagrangeville, says that the new law will make health insurance accessible for many people who didn’t have coverage before. In his eyes, this is a very positive development. “You’re going to have access through the exchange, and you’re probably going to be eligible for a tax credit as well,” Ping says. “That’s a really good thing. More people are going to be able to have healthcare coverage as a result of this, and that is what we all want to have happen.” Other aspects of the law will also have a positive effect that should be immediately noticeable, according to Ping. As of the first of the year, for example, insurance companies will no longer be allowed to deny coverage to someone if he or she has a pre-existing condition. This is in addition to several other provisions that have already taken effect, such as parents being allowed to keep children on their health insurance policies until age 26, and the elimination of lifetime benefits limits, or “caps.” Another positive effect is that the rate of health insurance premium increases appear to be slowing. This is certainly a welcome
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development not just for policy-holders, but for the nation as a whole, which spends more per capita on healthcare than any other developed country. “For a couple of the states that have been in this now for a little while, at least in some of the demonstration projects, they’re finding that healthcare insurance premium is not rising as rapidly as it had been before,” Ping says. “That was one of the big concerns [with the law].” The law moves more young, healthy people into the insurance market. Young people are typically healthy, thus they require far fewer medical services. In essence, the premium dollars paid by younger people will subsidize the healthcare for their parents. Ping also says that the law should reduce the amount of money healthcare providers spend each year on uncompensated care. When a person has no insurance and cannot pay his or her medical bills, these costs are spread out across the board, thereby increasing costs for everyone else. Stephen Weinman, MD, one of the principals at First Care Walk-In Medical Center in Highland, says that he and his colleagues are as curious as everyone else when it comes to the effects the law will have. “Most doctors that I talk to, we still really don’t know how it’s going to affect us,” Weinman says. Weinman is worried, however, that our county’s current shortage of doctors will become more of a problem as more and more people enter the system. As it is now, getting an appointment as a new patient often comes with a long wait. “For most doctors, as a new patient it will take you one to two months to get in and have an appointment,” Weinman says, adding that a recent report he read shows that this area is already underserved due to a lack of medical professionals. There are also concerns that information regarding the big changes that are coming in the next few months is not being disseminated as well as it could be, and that this will result in a great deal of confusion as the plan is rolled out. The healthcare landscape is about to undergo arguably its biggest shift in this nation’s history. And, for many Americans, whether the positive aspects of the law end up outweighing the potential downsides is something that remains to be seen.
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MEMBER UPDATES Alfandre Architecture Green Design Alfandre Architecture, PC, is in the process of bringing forth an office building at 231 Main Street in New Paltz that will be a unique facility to the region. The building will be highly visible to hundreds of thousands of people who travel en route for, and through New Paltz on their way to area attractions and events. The building has been registered for LEED Certification in New York State with the goal of achieving a Gold rating. The 5400 square foot office building will house Alfandre Architecture’s new office. Green design and building features include the use of airtight insulated concrete forms (ICF) for the walls, super efficient R-9 windows, high efficiency light fixtures with automated controls and occupancy sensors, porous paving in the parking lot to reduce the “heat island” effect as well as facilitating healthy storm water management, and photo voltaic panels on the southern facing roof to offset energy needs with the goal of achieving zero-net energy. For more information, visit www.alfandre.com SUNY New Paltz Golf Tournament raises money for students affected by Super Storm Sandy The State University of New York at New Paltz is pleased to report nearly $40,000 was raised at the Doug Sheppard Classic Scholarship Golf Tournament. Proceeds will benefit New Paltz students who were affected by Super Storm Sandy and other students experiencing sudden financial hardship who are in need of financial aid assistance to continue their studies at the College. It was the 15th year for the memorial tournament which is named in memory of Doug Sheppard, the long-time SUNY New Paltz professor, administrator, and coach. “Shep” was not only the golf coach for 32 years, but he was also a participant and fixture at local courses and tournaments in the area. The event, held on Monday, June 17, was sponsored by Campus Auxiliary Services,
Sodexo, NEEBO, Liberty Mutual Insurance, Standard Commercial Interiors, Wilmorite, and M&T Bank. CRREO awarded grant to measure impact of the arts in the Mid-Hudson Valley The Center for Research, Regional Education and Outreach (CRREO) at SUNY New Paltz has been awarded a grant from the New York Community Trust’s Arts & Culture Research Fund to measure the economic impact of the arts in the seven counties of the MidHudson region. CRREO was among six nonprofits awarded a total of $110,000 to support research that seeks to create a deeper understanding of the role that arts and culture play in New York State. Grantees will use the Cultural Data Project (CDP) as a primary source of data. CDP, which started in New York State in 2009 and now operates in 13 states, allows arts and cultural organizations enter financial, program, and operational data into a standardized online form. Led by KT Tobin, CRREO Associate Director, the research team includes Janis Benincasa (Dorsky Museum/CRREO), Julie Chiarito (Institutional Research), and Eve Waltermaurer (Sociology/CRREO). College selects interim chief financial officer as new vice president for administration and finance The State University of New York at New Paltz announces the appointment of Michele Halstead as the College’s new vice president for administration and finance after a competitive national search. She assumed her new role on August 19. Halstead was the assistant vice president for administration and finance and interim chief financial officer at SUNY New Paltz, managing all aspects of the campus’s finances and serving on the President’s Cabinet. A native of New Paltz, an alumna of SUNY New Paltz, and a resident of Stone Ridge, she has held positions of increasing
HOW TO SUBMIT ubmit items of general S public 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.
responsibility within the College’s Division of Administration and Finance since 1990 and has been asked to provide transitional leadership on several occasions. As the college’s senior non-academic administrator and chief financial officer, Halstead will be responsible for the institution’s financial viability and integrity, its operating and capital budgets, revenues, expenditures, business activities and debt. She will oversee Administrative and Financial Services, Environmental Health and Safety, Facilities Management, Human Resources, Technology and Information Services, and Telecommunications. School of Education dean appointed to State Professional Standards and Practices Board for Teaching The New York State Board of Regents has announced the appointment Michael S. Rosenberg, Ph.D., dean of the School of Education at the State University of New York at New Paltz, to the State Professional Standards and Practices Board for Teaching. REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2013 17
Composed of K-12 teachers and administrators, higher education representatives, public representatives, and one teacher education student, the Board serves in an advisory capacity to the Board of Regents and the Commissioner of Education on matters related to teaching in New York State. Rosenberg will serve a four-year term as a higher education administrator on the 28-member board. Rosenberg has served dean and professor of the School of Education since August 3, 2012. As the chief academic and administrative officer for the School, his responsibilities include: mentoring department chairs; recruiting and developing new faculty; supporting and initiating regional partnerships; and coordinating with faculty to promote innovative programs responsive to the needs of the region and to the State University of New York. Rosenberg also manages financial resources and external fundraising; oversees accreditation procedures; and implements SUNY and State Education Department policies. BERNER FINANCIAL SERVICES Irene Berner, CFP®, of Berner Financial Services is pleased to announce the launch of her new website, www.bernerfinancial. com. Along with the new website, Irene is also releasing a new logo which was designed by Omar Trujillo, a Graphics Arts student at SUNY Ulster. The class was taught by Assistant Professor Sean Nixon, who has been applying his Real World Classroom™ program with his students. Berner Financial Services is a locally based business and Irene can be reached at 845-256-1950. NEW PALTZ ROTARY CLUB On Friday July 19, 2013, The New Paltz Rotary Club held their 10th annual “Scholarship Scramble” at Apple Greens Golf Course. This two-man golf outing is the main source of funding for the $9,000 in scholarships given to area high school students each year. This year’s winning team was Joe Snyder and Chuck Koemm. “We raised over 6,000 dollars this year,” stated Mike Fairweather, Rotarian and chair of the event. “The success of this event was guaran18
teed by our Premier Sponsors; Mid-Hudson VIP, C2G Environmental Consultants, and New Paltz Wine and Spirits. Seventy two golfers participated despite the high temperatures.” To learn more about the New Paltz Rotary Club, visit www.NewPaltzRotary.org Two HVFCU members win scholarships Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union (HVFCU) is pleased to announce that Yorktown High School Senior Michael Park and Arlington High School Senior Natsuko Sato will each receive scholarship funds based on their outstanding academic and extracurricular achievements. Mr. Park plans to attend Yale, while Ms. Sato will attend Princeton. “We are very pleased to award these scholarships to our hard-working young members,” said HVFCU President and CEO Mary Madden. “Through their community activities and attention to their studies, they are excellent examples of the credit union philosophy of ‘people helping people,’ and we’re happy to help them with their college expenses.” Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union is a full service, not-for-profit financial cooperative for individuals and businesses, offering real estate and consumer loans, a wide variety of savings and transactional accounts, investment services, property and casualty insurance, estate planning, and trust services. With more than $3.8 billion in assets, HVFCU serves its 273,000+ members through branches in Dutchess, Orange, Ulster, and Putnam Counties, a nationwide network of 77,000 surcharge-free ATMs, Internet banking, online bill payment, and 24-hour account access by telephone. HVFCU is federally insured by the NCUA and is an Equal Housing Lender. For more information, visit hvfcu.org. HVFCU hires Domenic Baiocco as Business Services Loan Officer Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union (HVFCU) announced today that Domenic Baiocco has been named Business Services Loan Officer. In his new role, Mr. Baiocco
will deliver HVFCU’s wide range of commercial loan programs to businesses located throughout Dutchess County, as well as Carmel and Brewster in Putnam County. Mr. Baiocco has more than fourteen years of experience in the financial services industry, specializing in commercial mortgages, lines of credit and SBA financing. His career encompasses commercial banking, relationship management and branch management. Most recently, he was a Business Relationship Manager at PNC Bank. Domenic also has formal business credit training. A resident of Orange County, Domenic is active in the local community and is a member of both the Dutchess and Orange County Chambers of Commerce. In addition, he attends many New York State Society of CPA (NYSSCPA) events throughout the year. Domenic also served in Operation Desert Storm and is a Veteran of the U.S. Navy. Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell, LLP Announces Promotions Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell, LLP wishes to congratulate all of their recently promoted employees for jobs well done including: Michael Weddell, Eric Tropin, Shannon Mannese, Kendra Garzione, Jennifer Boniface, and Tiffany Frieary, CPA. Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell have offices located at 11 Racquet Road, Newburgh, NY, 1 Industrial Drive, Middletown, NY, 2622 South Avenue, Wappingers Falls, NY and 520 White Plains Road, Tarrytown, NY. They 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, New Jersey and several other states. Wallkill Valley Land Trust Elects New Officers The Wallkill Valley Land Trust (WVLT) has elected its first new President in 16 years. Chris Bernabo of New Paltz, an environmental scientist with experience managing government, private sector and non-profit organizations was elected President on July 14. Robert Witkowski of Gardiner, who has
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worked in the Information Technology field for over 30 years, was elected Vice President. James Ottaway Jr. and Carol LeFevre were re-elected Treasurer and Secretary respectively. Bob Taylor stepped down after 16 years successfully leading the organization, but remains on the Board as Member at Large. “We look forward to continuing to work with the community, as we have for the last 26 years, to enhance the quality of life in Southern Ulster County by conserving lands of scenic, agricultural, ecological, recreational and cultural significance,” said the new President. On June 29th, after 4 years of work, the Wallkill Valley Land Trust opened the historic trestle in Rosendale as “Walkway over the Rondout” and doubled the length of the beloved rail trail to 24 miles long through the towns of Gardiner, New Paltz, Rosendale and Ulster to Kingston. The WVLT is also known for their well-attended historic house tour held each year. Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union Recognized as an American Heart Association Fit-Friendly Worksite Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union (HVFCU) has been recognized as a Platinum-Level Fit-Friendly Worksite by the American Heart Association for helping employees eat better and move more. “Physical activity and employee wellness are important priorities at HVFCU. We are honored and excited to be recognized by the American Heart Association as a PlatinumLevel Fit-Friendly Worksite,” said President/ CEO Mary D. Madden “We’re committed to providing an exceptional workplace environment, and this will benefit our employees’ health and produce even more positive results for our worksite overall.” Platinum-level employers: • Offer employees physical activity options in the workplace. • Increase healthy eating options at the worksite. • Promote a wellness culture in the workplace. Implement at least nine criteria outlined by the American Heart Association in the areas of physical activity, nutrition and culture.
• Demonstrate measurable outcomes related to workplace wellness. For more information about the FitFriendly Worksites program and how it is helping to improve the health of Americans by focusing on an activity that is convenient, free and easy, call 845-905-2120 or visit startwalkingnow.org. For more information about HVFCU, call them at 845-463-3011 or visit hvfcu.org. PATIENT ADVOCATE SERVICES, INC. ELECTS BOARD OF DIRECTORS New York non-profit, Patient Advocate Services, Inc. (PASi), has announced the recent election of its Board of Directors. Founded by President, Kim Petro McCrum, after experiencing many of the problems common to patients dealing with the health care system, the non-profit was formed to improve the experience of patients overwhelmed by illness and medical bills. PASi provides assistance to medical patients of all ages, their families and caregivers in managing their medical bills, as well as provide referrals to patients with employment concerns. President, Kim Petro McCrum, is introducing the public to the new charity through its on-line presence at www.patientadvocate-services.org and affiliated blog. The newly elected Board is to utilize their varied areas of expertise in accounting, nursing, insurance and business to review medical invoices and Explanation of Benefits forms for accuracy, complete patients’ reimbursement forms and other documents, and deal with medical facilities and hospitals to have billing errors corrected. Patient Advocates Services, Inc. can be contacted at 845-566-0391 or via email at patientadvocate123@gmail.com. Their website is: www.Patient-Advocate-Services.org. ARNOFF LAUNCHES MOBILEFRIENDLY WEBSITE Arnoff Moving & Storage is excited to announce the launch of their new mobilefriendly website at www.arnoff.com. Arnoff ’s new home page displays an updated userfriendly menu with more moving and storage options than ever before, and it’s easy to navigate on a laptop, smart phone or tablet.
Information on household, commercial and industrial rigging relocations and storage is right at your fingertips, including extensive information on Arnoff ’s new Global Logistics division. For more information, visit www.arnoff.com or call 800-633-6683. MIKE ARNOFF NAMED BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR Mike Arnoff has been named 2013 Business Person of the Year by The Poughkeepsie Journal. Mike has been president of Arnoff Moving & Storage since 1997, when he became the fourth generation in his family to head the company founded by his great-grandfather in 1924. Mike’s leadership as president has led the company through the economy’s highs and lows, building a strong business relationship with the Hudson Valley’s residential, commercial and industrial clients. Mike is particularly proud of the fact that the fifth generation of Arnoffs (two of his sons and a nephew have recently joined the company). Some of Mike’s top professional accomplishments include the installation of the region’s largest solar farm on the roof of Arnoff ’s Millerton Industrial Park, the founding of the Hudson Valley Family Business Institute at Marist College, some major industrial semiconductor rigging contracts with Global Foundries, IBM, College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, and ongoing contracts with the DOD at West Point. For more information, please visit www.arnoff.com. RIBBON CUTTING AT THE NEW LAW OFFICES OF JAMES YASTION, PLCC James Yastion, Esq. is pleased to announce his new office location at the Empire State Bank building at 275 Main Street in New Paltz. A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held between 5:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Light refreshments and beverages will be served. James Yastion, Esq. stands ready to assist clients in a wide range of legal matters. Below are descriptions of some of areas of law that he practices, however, prospective clients should contact him to see how he can best serve you. What better way than meeting him at this after-hours event? REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2013 19
THE BOTTOM LINE LEGISLATION AND NEWS THAT AFFECT YOUR BUSINESS Compiled by Tod Westlake
50 Years for SUNY Ulster SUNY Ulster celebrates its golden anniversary with the beginning of the 2013-14 school year. According to the Daily Freeman, the college opened its doors on September 23, 1963. Initially, it offered just eight courses, including a degree in Professional Typing, but now has more than 60 degree programs. The college also has approximately 3,200 students, and it employs more than 400 people. SUNY Ulster President Donald Katt, who was interviewed by the Freeman, said that the college has become integral to Ulster County life. “I think it’s become a part of the fabric of Ulster County,” Katt was quoted as saying. “I think our enrollment speaks volumes to how affordable and accessible we are.”
Unemployment Drops While the economy continues to recover slowly, the Ulster County area has seen what appears to be some pretty decent job growth in the past year. The unemployment rate for the county dropped to 7.7 percent, this is down from a whopping 9.4 percent the previous year. Overall, this drop in unemployment accounts for more than 600 new jobs added in Ulster County, according to a report in the Times-Herald Record. While all of this is good news, we don’t really have a reason to celebrate just yet: the upstate region’s overall job-growth rate of 1.2 percent annually is eclipsed easily by the national rate of 3.6 percent over the same period, according to a study published recently by the Albany-based Fiscal Policy Institute. Things are improving, but it appears we’re not out of the woods just yet. Most Insurance Rates Cheaper Than Expected A recent study published by the Kaiser Family Foundation shows that the insurance premiums that folks will be charged under the Affordable Care Act are coming in lower than expected. Though premiums prices will differ significantly based upon age, size of family, and location, the bottom 20
line is that the law appears to be having its desired effect to drive down premium costs. “While premiums will vary significantly across the country,” the study says, “they are generally lower than expected. For example, we estimate that the latest projections from the Congressional Budget Office imply that the premium for a 40-year-old in the second lowest cost silver plan would average $320 per month nationally. Fifteen of the eighteen rating areas we examined have premiums below this level, suggesting that the cost of coverage for consumers and the federal budgetary cost for tax credits will be lower than anticipated.” On the other hand, while the Kaiser Family study shows that premiums are set to drop nationally, the same cannot be said of Indiana, or at least it appears that way. The state announced recently that the average premium in Indiana is set to soar by as much as 72 percent, to $570 per month, as a result of the provisions under the Affordable Care Act. But critics say that the statistics released by the state were cherry-picked. Writer Sarah Kliff at Salon examined the same statistics and came to the conclusion that rates would be between $294-$391 per month, which appears to confirm the Kaiser study.
So, who’s right? We should all know in the coming year. Taxes to Play Major Role in Election 2014 2014 is a big election year hear in New York State. In addition to every member of the State Legislature being on the ballot, all state-wide office-holders will also be on the ballot—including Governor Andrew Cuomo, who will be running for re-election. Cuomo says that lowering taxes remains one of the major goals of the administration, and that doing so will lead to more robust economic growth. “One of the best things we can do to spur economic development in this state is reduce taxes. I believe that,” Cuomo said to reporters at a recent press conference in Essex County. “I said when I was elected, you have no future as the tax capital of the nation.” The Senate Finance Committee is in fact is currently holding a series of hearings throughout the state in order to hear what local communities have to say about tax policy. It appears, in principle, that both the governor and the state legislature want the same thing. There will, however, be some wrangling over the details.
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EVENTS & PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT OC TO BE R 16
LUNCH ON THE TRESTLE
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fter four years of renovation the Rosendale Rail Trestle opened this past June as a destination for pedestrians, hikers, cyclists, equestrians, and cross-country skiers to take in stunning mountain and river views. Join us for a special luncheon 150 feet above the Rondout Creek on October 16 as we dine on the span and hear featured speaker and Executive Director of the Wallkill Valley Land Trust, Christine DeBoer, speak about the project and future plans to renovate the rail trail for the October Business Luncheon.
ADDED VALUE TO YOUR NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERSHIP he New Paltz Regional ChamT ber of Commerce is always working hard to give our members support. We are pleased to announce three new and ongoing programs that add extra value to your Chamber membership—The Map, The App, and The Card. The Chamber is working with Target Marketing on the map, which will be a detailed street map of the Village and Town of New Paltz, as well as a highways and byways map of Ulster, Dutchess, and Orange counties. The App, also administered by Target Marketing, is already available for download to your smart phone at MyChamberApp.com or through your app store. It is absolutely free to our members and already live. The Card, or the New Paltz Regional Gift Card, is a local currency that will be available for purchase and redemption at many local merchants keeping more dollars in our community. In collaboration with Chamber member Rittenhouse Payments, we hope to roll out this program in time for Holiday gift giving. Keep your eyes and ears open for marketing opportunities associated with these Chamber programs in the weeks, months, and years to come.
Date: Wednesday, October 16 Time: 12:00 p.m.–1:30 p.m. Place: Rosendale Trestle, Rosendale Cost: Complimentary to Corporate Partners; $20 for Chamber members, $25 for Not-Yet-Members. Rain Date: Thursday, October 17.
DECEMBER 17
December After-Hours Mixer
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oin us for our annual year-end mixer as we partake in homemade American cuisine in an historic 1788 grist mill in Gardiner on December 17. TuthillHouse at the Mill Restaurant & Tavern’s menu is inspired by Italian and American country cooking, featuring fresh, local artisan products and ingredients of the Hudson Valley and promises to be a festive location for this holiday time event. Date: Tuesday, December 17 Time: 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. Place: TuthillHouse at the Mill, Gardiner Cost: Free for Chamber members, $15 for Not-Yet-Members.
REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2013 23
MEMBER PROFILES Our Own Back Yard
By Tod Westlake
FALL IS ONE OF THE BEST TIMES OF THE YEAR HERE IN NEW PALTZ FOR MANY REASONS, not the least
of which is the kaleidoscope of colors we get to enjoy as the leaves turn and we head towards winter. Fall is also a good time to think about experiencing the eclectic variety of goods and services available locally when you do your holiday shopping. Whatever it is you’re after, there’s a good chance you can get it right here in your own back yard. And what could be better than that?
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New Paltz Kayaking Tours
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f, like many of us, you find that you’ve become a bit sedentary, a little gentle exercise out-of-doors might be just the ticket to get you up and motivated. And in the New Paltz area we have many different low-impact activities from which to choose, especially when it comes to biking and hiking. But have you ever considered getting spending a few hours on the Wallkill River? If not, you should take a look at New Paltz Kayaking Tours. With six kayaks and four canoes, this short trip down our beautiful river will give you a perspective that you might not have seen before. “What I do is put people in at Sojourner Truth Park, right off Plains Road, and they take a 4.7 mile trip down river,” owner Craig Chapman says. “It takes about two hours, and that’s with nice, easy paddling.” 24
The Wallkill River is ideal for beginners, according to Chapman, as it flows very gently and doesn’t present any real challenges to those who are inexperienced. “It’s the perfect beginner trip,” Chapman says. “I’ve had eight-year-olds do it; I’ve had 85-year-olds do it.” Chapman says that people typically go with a friend or two, and that the leisurely pace allows folks to take in the sights and enjoy a little fresh air and conversation. “There are no rapids at all,” Chapman says. “It’s a lazy river. And, once you get out of New Paltz, there’s not many people or houses. It’s pretty remote out there.” Chapman’s services are aren’t limited to just the Wallkill. He also takes folks out to Chodikee Lake, where they can engage in a little fishing—or simply enjoy the wildlife, which is more abundant at the lake.
Chapman says that the idea for his business came about as a result of his desire to work out-of-doors. He also saw that there was nothing like New Paltz Kayaking Tours in the local marketplace, so he decided to give it a go. And it appears that he’s managed to find a good niche, running regular tours from May through end of September. “I also run tours in the fall if there’s enough interest,” Chapman says. “So people should come out and give it a try if they’ve never done it before.” ” NEW PALTZ KAYAKING TOURS Sojourner Truth Park, New Paltz Craig Chapman 845-594-6353 www.npkt.net
WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MEMBER PROFILE
Ulster Savings Bank
I
f you’re among those who champion the idea of “buy local,” you’ve obviously thought carefully about how every dollar you spend at a locally owned business impacts our community. But have you thought about this in relation to where you do your banking? If not, you should take a look at what Ulster Savings has to offer. In business for 162 years, Ulster Savings is a bank that understands the community it serves. As such, it has the ability to address the needs of its customers perhaps a bit better than some of the big commercial banks. And by choosing a local bank, you can further amplify the power of your local spending. Commercial banks, and other lenders who are primarily Internet-based, typically have marketing budgets that allow them to reach their customers during primetime TV viewing. But this doesn’t necessarily mean
that they’re your best choice when it comes to, for example, securing a mortgage. People often find that they are unable to qualify for the teaser rates offered by these banks—or, worse, that they can’t secure a mortgage at all. Ulster Savings, on the other hand, uses local appraisers and other professionals, so they have a strong knowledge of the local market. They also service most of their loans here as well, so you can always get answers to questions about your mortgage without having to go through the impersonal experience of talking to a clerk at a call center in some other part of the country. But it’s not just mortgages. Besides offering free business and personal checking, Ulster Savings has two subsidiaries—Ulster Insurance Services and Ulster Financial Group—to provide payroll services, tax preparation, investment planning, and insur-
ance for your home, auto, and business—and, since we’re on the subject of healthcare in this edition, they also offer group health insurance and other related products. They will work with your business to help maximize the bang you get for your healthcare buck. Ulster Savings has locations throughout the Hudson Valley and employs more than 300 people in the local community, so they are among the most important job providers in the area. And they have a philanthropic arm that has given millions of dollars to local causes and charities. If buying local is important to you, the choice couldn’t be clearer. ” ULSTER SAVINGS BANK 180 Schwenk Drive, Kingston 845-338-6322 www.ulstersavings.com
REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2013 25
MEMBER RENEWALS THANK YOU! 511NY Rideshare/Metropool 87 Motel A. Diachishin and Associates Ace Pictures Incorporated Alfandre Architecture, PC Allied Locksmiths Angelynn F. Pinto, PSY‑D, LLC Antiques Barn at Water Street Market Antiques Dealers Association of Ulster County Asian Fusion New Paltz Inc Bank Of America/Merrill Lynch Beek’s Auto Belfiore & Kagan Bridge Creek Catering C2G Environmental Consultants Candy Candy Catskill Hudson Bank CDPHP Clephas/Burns Environmental Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty Colucci Shand Realty The Culinarians’ Home Foundation, Inc David Clouser & Associates Deep‑Six Underwater Systems, Inc. Di Stasi, Moriello & Murphy Law PLLC Domenick Lopane Jr. Landscaping LLC Enchanted Toys For Paws Of Ulster, Inc. Foxx Pools By Charles Burger Garden Plaza Hotel Gentech Ltd Glen F. Kubista & Associates Glenn & Breheney PLLC Hampton Inn – Kingston Healthalliance of The Hudson Valley Hudson Heritage Federal Credit Union – Main Street, New Paltz Branch Hudson Valley Cleaning Hudson Valley Homes 4 Sale Hungry Ghost Guest House Hunter Mountain Resort In Good Taste Ingraham Shovel Co. Inn at Twaalfskill Jacobs Music Center Jenkins & Lueken Orchards
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MEMBER PROFILE
Gardiner Athletics
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et’s face it, working out to keep fit can become routine and, well, boring. Any time you engage in something so repetitive, it’s easy to find yourself in a bit of a rut. But Peter Nathan, owner of Gardiner Athletics, has the perfect way to overcome this tedium: a CrossFit workout. Put simply, a CrossFit workout combines strength and conditioning training, employing various techniques associated with sports like gymnastics and weightlifting, in order to help participants get into shape and begin feeling healthier. Most importantly, the workout changes constantly, so you’re not stuck doing the same boring routine day-after-day. “Each workout is different, so it’s varied,” says Nathan, who founded the business back in 2004. “It’s a different workout every day.” The workouts consists of a warm-up, which usually lasts about15 to 20 minutes. This is then followed by another 20 minutes of strength or skill work, usually involving barbells. Finally, there is another 20 minutes or so of conditioning, which includes familiar exercises like pull-ups and push-ups. “Everyone has different abilities, and different histories,” Nathan says, adding that the age and physical condition of a participant is carefully evaluated. “We can scale or adjust the workout to each person’s abilities and goals.”
The central idea behind the CrossFit movement, and cross-training in general, is that workouts should reflect real-world activities. Police, firefighters, and construction workers, for example, are often asked to do a range of physical activities each day. One minute you might be climbing a ladder, while the next you might be carrying a heavy piece of equipment. “The variety of these types of work demands is reflected in the [CrossFit] workout,” Nathan says. “It’s also fun. You’re not just getting on the elliptical and plodding through 40 minutes of watching ‘Oprah.’ People stick with workouts they enjoy.” And, for those who are interested, Nathan also offers training in Olympic lifting, strength training, and mobility training. There are also kids classes available, so there’s a workout for virtually all ages and abilities. Gardiner Athletics is open seven days a week, so they can accommodate most schedules. Private training sessions are also available by appointment. GARDINER ATHLETICS 9 Osprey Lane, Gardiner Peter Nathan 845-419-2177 www.gardinerathletics.com
WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MEMBER RENEWALS
21 S. Chestnut Street, Suite 108, New Paltz Amy Mosbacher
JT Marks Trucking, Inc. Katia Gushue Fine Art Studio Kimlin Propane Co., Inc. Maple Lane Apartment Rentals Mhv Federal Credit Union Midhudsonnews.com/Catskillsnews.com Mike Arteaga’s Health & Fitness Centers Minnewaska Lodge Mixture of New Paltz Moondance Ridge Bed & Breakfast Mountain Brauhaus Restaurant Mountain Skills Climbing Guides Moxie Cupcake Neko Sushi & Restaurant New Paltz Animal Hospital O’Connor Davies, LLP P&G’s Restaurant Red Pump Studio Retro Systems Rocking Horse Ranch Schreiber Orchards, Inc. Ship Lantern Inn Sky Lake Lodge Slotnick Signs And Designs St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital Stop & Shop Supermarket Sunoco Aplus Mini Market Susan Ivy Designs The Big Cheese Tracy Clark‑Cherry, LMT TVB Enterprises Ulster County Tourism Ulster Savings Ultra Seal Corporation Unison Arts Center Van Vliet Orthodontics Vanacore, Debenedictus, Digovanni & Weddell LLP, CPAs Wamc Northeast Public Radio Weblink International, Inc Westwood Metes & Bounds Realty, Ltd. Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery, LLP Wilklow Orchards Win Morrison Realty Woodland Pond at New Paltz World’s Coolest Rain Gauge
www.botanicamassageandwellness.com
Member Renewals June 1 Through August 25
MEMBER PROFILE
BOTANICA MASSAGE & WELLNESS
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eeling good isn’t just about eating right and seeing your doctor regularly. Sometimes we simply need to pamper ourselves. On the other hand, maybe you’re among those who are suffering from stressrelated pain. If so, seeking and finding relief is an important part of your individual wellbeing. Whatever the case may be, you should give serious thought to trying therapeutic massage. And, as it turns out, we have an excellent resource for this right here in New Paltz in Botanica Massage & Wellness. Botanica offers a wide variety of services that are designed to make you feel better. In addition to regular massage, they also offer among their services Swedish massage, deep-tissue massage, oncology massage ( for those who are undergoing cancer treatment), and warm-stone massage. And, if you are on your feet all day, or you do manual labor with your hands, you can treat yourself to a foot or hand massage while you enjoy a little aromatherapy. “When a person comes in, I usually ask them if there’s anything that’s bothering them,” says Amy Mosbacher, the owner of Botanica. “Do you have any tension that you are carrying? Do you have any tightness? Do you get headaches? Things like that.”
Mosbacher says that one of the most important aspects of what she does involves finding exactly what the customer needs and then tailoring the therapy to those needs. Everyone is different, and Botanica understands this. What might feel right to one person might not feel so to the next. With this in mind, Mosbacher wants her customers to always feel free to speak up when something is working well, or vice-versa. “The number-one thing is that the person should be able to relax and be comfortable,” Mosbacher says. “If anything doesn’t feel right, in any way, speak up. Everybody’s different, and I won’t take any kind of offense, or feel like you’re telling me how to do my job.” Botanica offers online appointments through the company’s website. There are also gift certificates available for those who are looking for a unique and useful gift to give to a friend or loved one. BOTANICA MASSAGE & WELLNESS
REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2013 27
MEMBERSHIP MATTERS
LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE TOGETHER The Little Chamber That Could by Peter Ingellis, Director of Membership
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“
think I can, I think I can, I think_ I_ Can!” Many of you have probably read The Little Engine That Could. It was one of my favorite books as a child and I have a copy of it on my bookshelf. I read it every three or four months because I feel it puts a lot into perspective. Well, I think WE can! That WE is the Membership and Staff at the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce. The story goes that there was a large train that needed to be pulled over a mountain and the larger engines wanted nothing to do with it. The big strong engine was only interested in pulling the largest and heaviest cars, the passenger engine only cared to pull passenger cars and some just didn’t want to try altogether. Finally, they asked an engine that was just there to move a few cars around the rail yard to do it. The engine set out to pull these cars over the mountain saying, “ I think I can, I think I can” to itself. As the engine approached the top of the mountain it surely went slower, but it kept pulling the cars forward. As the engine topped the mountain and started down the other side, it said, “ I thought I could.” 28
The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce might as well be that engine depicted in the book. We are one of the engines that propels the businesses in the Hudson Valley. The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce staff has taken a page from this book and made it our own. We saw what was happening out there and we set about changing it. Here’s what we have done: We’ve added more value to your Membership. Want to be found on an App? Check out My Chamber App. As a Member of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce you will be listed. Free. There will be an opportunity to advertise as well through the provider. Want a map of New Paltz and the surrounding area with business listings and advertising opportunities, we’ve handled that too. We are also rolling out the New Paltz Gift Card. This will be available to anyone and will be redeemable at Chamber Member businesses that have signed up to accept the card.
We keep pushing to see what we can provide our Members with. These are exciting times. There are a lot of opportunities out there to help you utilize your Chamber Membership. We want to provide you with the most value of any Chamber anywhere. We listen to your feedback, we make changes. We certainly cannot be labeled as “stale.” Call us, e mail us, write us or just stop in the office. We value your ideas and welcome them. We will keep pushing until we get over the top of the hill in front of us. Then we will set our sights on the next, taller hill. Together we will all get there. “I think we can.” MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE Peter Ingellis New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce Valerie Belton Ulster Savings Andrew Ciccone Hudson Valley Media Glen Kubitsa Glen F. Kubitsa & Associates Susan Lyke Cooper Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union Brian MacGregor The Valley Group John Sorlie Empire State Bank Theresa Lindemann Servpro
WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Law Offices of
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OUR CORPORATE PARTNERS 2013 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.
CAPITAL PARTNER
Health Quest LEADING PARTNER
Complete Benefit Solutions SUPPORTING PARTNERS
Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corp. Ulster Savings Supporting Partners Empire State Bank HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union KIC Chemicals, Inc. The Law Offices of James Yastion, PLLC Luminary Publishing M & T Bank Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell LLP, CPAs
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WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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257 Main Street New Paltz, NY 12561