New Paltz Regional Report - Winter 2012 by Chronogram Media

COMMUNITY

BUS I NES S

EDUCATION

NEW PALTZ

REGIONAL

CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE

TOURISM

REGIONAL

REPORT

WINTER 2012

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

BEYOND THE BOTTOM LINE

IN THIS ISSUE

The Business of Culture

The Bottom Line

Member Profiles

Can Ethical Business Practices Equal Success? By Greg Schoenfeld

t seems there is no more prominent issue captivating Americans today than that of the ethical standards and practices by which our businesses are run. As more and more realms of business—both public and private—come under scrutiny, there is a burgeoning consciousness emerging, as well as a rising dissatisfaction with the status quo. A Google news search on the subject of “business ethics” will return a wellspring of current conflicts, and a consistent question arises: Where does accountability factor in to personal gain and corporate profits, and what is the true measure of success? From campaign finance reform, to former New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine’s bankrupt brokerage MF Global, there is a constant focus on whether it is indeed practical to pursue short-term gain at any cost, to the exclusion of a more principled approach. Continued on p. 12

New Paltz and the surrounding region is a unique spot in the universe, and the businesses here reflect the special culture that thrives here.

New York State raises taxes on millionaires; voting machine problems; Gov. Cuomo wants to legalize casino gambling.

Blue Stone Cottage B&B, Moxie Cupcake, Berner Financial Services, Kathode Ray Media, Inc.

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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NEW BEGINNINGS

BUS I NES S

COMMUNITY

NEW PALTZ

EDUCATION

“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.”

REGIONAL

CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE

TOURISM

—William Arthur Ward

ecently retired Chamber President Joyce Minard’s passion and courage have been an inspiration to us all; her legacy of generosity and tenacious advocacy for our region’s business, industrial, agricultural, and civic interests will serve as a strong foundation as the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce presses on under new leadership into an encouraging future. Joyce has brought the force of her boundless energy to bear upon a broad variety of community programs, organizations, projects and events, including Ulster County Workforce Development Board, Chamber Alliance of New York State, Southern Ulster Chamber Alliance, New Paltz Town-Gown Committee, Ulster County Tourism Advisory Board, Gateway Community Industries Board of Directors, American Heart Association, and SUNY New Paltz Foundation Gala Committee, always with a single goal in mind: Making the Hudson Valley a better place to live, work, play, worship, and do business. It has been our pleasure to serve beside Joyce in her efforts to promote a dynamic quality of life in our region through this Chamber and its Foundation. The Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz, which was formed to aid and augment the Chamber’s educational initiatives, is proud to launch a new scholarship in honor of Joyce’s tireless work to materially improve the quality of life in the Hudson Valley by providing our region’s business people, key employees, job seekers and

students with opportunities to learn new skills and integrate into the local employment and entrepreneurial climate. The Foundation is currently seeking donations to the scholarship fund and hopes to award its first Joyce Minard Scholarship in June of this year. Donations may be made online through NYCharities.org by searching Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz and clicking “donate now.” Checks payable to the Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz may also be mailed to 257 Main St., New Paltz. Note in the memo line of your check or specify in the online form that you would like your donation applied to the Joyce Minard Scholarship. Joyce has been so generous with her time and talent throughout her more than 30 years of fiercely dedicated service to the greater Hudson Valley. We are certain you’ll join us in celebrating Joyce’s innumerable contributions to our region with your own generosity. Please consider giving back through a gift to the Joyce Minard Scholarship. Sincerely,

’Tis the season for

winter-related aches and pains. It’s also the season for getting help quickly and easily, thanks to Health Quest’s Concierge Scheduling Line. Now you can make an appointment at any Health Quest Medical Practice by simply calling 1-888-525-HQMP (4767).

Chris Drouin, Chair, New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce

Kathy Ferrusi, Chair, Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz

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UPCOMING EVENTS Tuesday, January 10

Friday, January 27

After-Hours Mixer @ McGillicuddy’s Restaurant and Tap House, New Paltz

Winter Business Card Exchange @ Ulster Savings Bank, New Paltz

Join us at our first After-Hours Mixer of 2012! Once again, we kick off a new year at McGillicuddy’s Restaurant and Tap House, where abundant, delicious food and drink and fabulous networking will be the order of the night. Time: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Place: McGillicuddy’s Restaurant and Tap House, 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 18

“Health Fair” Business Luncheon @ Woodland Pond at New Paltz, featuring HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley At this important luncheon, HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley physicians will be on hand to answer your questions about Vascular, Cardiology and Thoracic Services, and General Surgery including a new procedure to treat GERD (Acid Reflux), as well as provide information about Gastroenterology, Breast Care Services, Diabetes Education, Nutrition, and Orthopedic Services. Free screenings for Bone Density, Blood Pressure, Blood Glucose and BMI will be available, and HealthAlliance will also provide flu shots. Sponsor: HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley Time: 12:00 noon – 1:30 p.m. Place: Woodland Pond at New Paltz, 100 Woodland Pond Circle, New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to NPRCoC Corporate Partners; $20 for Chamber members; $25 nonmembers Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org Reservations required for all events. Call 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org

Vigorous networking is the best way to get warmed up on an early January morning. Join us for breakfast snacks and grow your business network at Ulster Savings Bank’s New Paltz Branch. Time: 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Place: Ulster Savings Bank, 226 Main Street, New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to Chamber members; $15 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org Thursday, February 9

After-Hours Mixer @ Barnaby’s Steakhouse, New Paltz Get your Valentine’s Day started early with our February After-Hours Mixer at Barnaby’s Steakhouse. Build your contacts and enjoy Barnaby’s tasty food and drink in this historic location, built by the New Paltz Literary Association in 1863. Time: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Place: Barnaby’s Steakhouse, 16 N. Chestnut St., New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to Chamber members; $15 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org Wednesday, February 15

“Ulster County Main Streets Initiative” Business Luncheon @ The Terrace Restaurant, SUNY New Paltz featuring Dennis Doyle of the Ulster County Planning Board Join Dennis Doyle as he discusses the Ulster County Main Streets Program, founded by the Ulster County Planning Board in 2007 to ensure the vitality of our Main Streets as part of an overall economic development and quality of life strategy. Partnering with the Rural Ulster Preservation Company (RUPCO) on this approach, Ulster County has been awarded more New York State Main Street Grants than any other county in the state. Learn more about the program at this timely luncheon.

Sponsor: Water Street Market Time: 12:00 noon - 1:30 p.m. Place: The Terrace Restaurant, SUNY New Paltz Campus Cost: Complimentary to Corporate Partners; $20 for Chamber members; $15 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org Tuesday, March 13

After-Hours Mixer and Pot-O-Gold Raffle Drawing at 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 21

3rd Annual Workplace Wellness Event @ Deyo Hall, Historic Huguenot Street

Chamber members and their peers are invited to explore the many health and wellness resources available in the Hudson Valley. Representatives from Chamber Health Plan administrator Complete Benefit Solutions (CoBeSo), providers MVP and CDPHP, will be on hand as well to discuss health insurance options during this open enrollment period. A healthy bag lunch will be provided. Sponsor: Complete Benefit Solutions Time: 12:00 noon - 1:30 p.m. Place: Deyo Hall, 18 Broadhead Ave., Historic Huguenot Street, New Paltz Cost: Lunch is complimentary to Corporate Partners, $20 for Chamber members; $25 nonmembers; members who do not want lunch are welcome to attend at no cost. Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org

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CONTENTS

MEMBER PROFILES

Equal Opportunity Leadership Regional Reports checks in with the following women-ownedand-operated businesses: Moxie Cupcake, Berner Financial Services, Kathode Ray Media, and Blue Stone Cottage Bed and Breakfast.

Beyond the bottom line Can Ethical Business Practices Equal Success? Scandals abound in the business sector, from the financial misdealings of Jon Corzine at MF Global to the alleged harassment of female colleagues by Herman Cain. More and more, business leaders are asking the question: What is the true measure of success? We speak to local entrepreneurs about how they balance profitability and accountability.

the business of culture The Unique Draw of Our Region and Its Limitless Potential If character is destiny, then the special character of our area is a foundational influence on the economic life of New Paltz and the surrounding region. Local business leaders talk about the ways in which the region’s cultural identity informs their operations.

the bottom line Legislation and News That Affects Your Business A recent Siena College study finds that despite the sluggish economy, New Yorkers still hold volunteerism and neighborliness in high regard; Governor Cuomo announces $67 million in state grants for job creation in the Mid-Hudson region; legalizing “destination gaming locations” around the state is contemplated by Governor Cuomo; the Assembly and Senate pass legislation shifting the tax burden from the middle class to millionaires.

Events spotlight $10,000 Pot-O-Gold Raffle & Joyce Minard Scholarship Launch The annual Pot-O-Gold Raffle at Rocking Horse Ranch; Joyce Minard Scholarship launches.

membership matters Tips for capitalizing on your Chamber membership.

Upcoming Events

Recent Chamber Events

Member Updates

Member Renewals

Membership Matters

REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2011

NPRCoC BOARD AND STAFF Board Officers

2012 CORPORATE PARTNERS

CHAIR Chris Drouin Beyond Wealth Management

LEADING PARTNER

Frank Curcio Bank of America ND 2 VICE CHAIR Craig Shankles PDQ Printing and Graphics SECRETARY Constance Harkin Ulster Savings

Complete Benefit Solutions

TREASURER

Mindi Haynes Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell, LLP, CPAs LEGAL COUNSEL James Yastion Esq. PAST CHAIR Ernie VanDeMark Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp.

SUPPORTING PARTNERS

Health Alliance Health Quest Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union KIC Chemicals Law Offices of James Yastion, PLLC M&T Bank Ulster Savings

1 ST VICE CHAIR

Board of Directors

Tom Edwards Fox & Hound Wine and Spirits Richard Heyl de Ortiz Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children Kay Hoiby Free Fall Express, Inc. Glen F. Kubista Glen F. Kubista & Associates Wade Lott Clear Channel Radio of the Hudson Valley Walter Marquez Water Street Market Dr. David Ness Performance Sports and Wellness Glenn Sutherland Catskill Hudson Bank Patrick Turner Little Pond Consulting Susan VanDeBogart St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital Center for Rehabilitation 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 VICE-CHAIR Sally Cross SUNY New Paltz Foundation SECRETARY Teresa Thompson Main Street Bistro TREASURER Sue VanVoorhis M&T Bank BOARD MEMBER Joanne Fredenberg BOARD MEMBER Cathy Sifre CHAIR

Chamber Staff

Christine Crawfis Director of Marketing & Communications Susan Colchamiro Interim Membership Relations Associate Janet Nurre Communications & Programs Administrator

ASSOCIATE PARTNER

Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp.

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) 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. 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. @2012 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. www.luminarypublishing.com.

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RECENT CHAMBER EVENTS 1

4 2

1 October After-Hours Mixer attendees build new connections and nurture their networks at Water Street Market, New Paltz. 2 Nancy Rafter of Arrow Promotions and Darryl Lafferty of American Red Cross Mid-Hudson Valley Chapter at the October After Hours Mixer. 3 Carol Roper of New Paltz Rural Cemetery shows off a bottle of Whitecliff Vineyards Redtail, the door prize she won at the November Business Luncheon, held at Ship Lantern Inn, Milton. 4 Trivia buffs chow down at the Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz Trivia Night, held at Main Street Bistro, New Paltz. 5 November Luncheon sponsor James Yastion of Law Offices of James Yastion, PLLC accepts a certificate of appreciation from Chamber Board Secretary Connie Harkin of Ulster Savings. 6 Louis Mastro of C2G Environmental Consultants and Green State Services with Jeffrey Fredenberg of Rose and Kiernan, Inc. at the December After-Hours Mixer, held at Historic Huguenot Street’s Dubois Fort Visitor Center, New Paltz. 7 Tom and Patti Habersaat of A Victorian Knoll Bed & Breakfast, Catherine McCormick of Creek Locks Bed & Breakfast, Marilyn D’Angelo of Win Morrison Realty and John McCormick of Creek Locks Bed & Breakfast at the November After-Hours Mixer, held at Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz.

REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2012

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS ConnectedContractors.com 4 Crotty Lane New Windsor, NY 12553 845-988-0315 Contact: Jim Wagner Email: jwagner@connectedcontractors.com Website: www.connectedcontractors.com Software Development & Training Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children 209 Clinton Avenue Kingston, NY 12401 845-339-7543 Fax: 845-338-0620 Contact: Richard Heyl de Ortiz Email: richard@casaulster.org Website: www.casaulster.org Child and Family Services Dawes Septic and Repair 1997 State Route 32 Modena, NY 12548 845-883-6440 Fax: 845-883-8321 Contact: Rebecca Dawes Email: becky@dawesseptic.com Website: www.dawesseptic.com Septic Services Diamond Mills Hotel & Tavern 25 South Partition Street Saugerties, NY 12477 845-247-0700 Website: www. www.diamondmillshotel.com Hotels & Resorts Edgewood Consulting & Services PO Box 122 New Paltz, NY 12561 845-255-7007 Contact: Ekaterini Vlamis Email: ekaterini@edgewoodcs.com Website: www.edgewoodcs.com Outdoor Recreation, Teambuilding, Hiking/ Private Guide, Experiential Education Gardiner Association of Businesses PO Box 186 Gardiner, NY 12525 845-909-5444 8

Contact: Kay Hoiby Email: GAB@gardinernybusiness.com Website: www.gardinernybusiness.com Business Associations Gray Owl Gallery 10 Main Street Water Street Market New Paltz, NY 12561 845-518-2237 Contact: Patty Lott Email: grayowlgallery@gmail.com Website: www.grayowlgallery.com Art Galleries Key Bank 82 North Plank Road Newburgh, NY 12550 845-456-9901 Contact: Susan Lyke-Cooper Email: susan_lyke_cooper@keybank.com Banks Little Explorers Nursery and Daycare 304 Rte 32 North New Paltz, NY 12561 845-256-2299 Email: Jhoneybuns@aol.com Child Care/Preschool Mando Books 188 Main St. New Paltz, NY 12561 845-633-8311, 845-633-8872 Contact: Gabe McNaughton Email: gabe@mandobooks.com Website: mandobooks.com Bookstores MarkJames & Co. 199 Route 299 Suite 103 Highland, NY 12528 845-834-3047 Fax: 845-475-1914 Contact: Mark McAniff Email: mjm@markjames.co Website: www.markjamesandco.com Kitchen and Bath Specialist

NYC Getaways 723 Springtown Rd. Tillson, NY, 12486 845-658-3129 Contact: Shaun Johnston Email: shaun@nycgetaways.com Website: www.nycgetaways.com Travel Peaslee Design 2 White Oaks Lane New Paltz, NY 12561 845-594-1352 Fax: 845-255-4560 Contact: Clark Peaslee Email: clark@peasleedesign.com Website: peasleedesign.com Home Furnishings Quality Inn & Suites 114 State Route 28 Kingston, NY 12401 845-339-3900 Fax: 845-338-8464 Contact: Bipin Patel, General Manager Email: bpin@hoteldetail.com Website: www.choicehotels.com/hotels/ny4306

Hotels/Resorts Raleigh Green Inc. 557 Broadway, 4C Port Ewen, NY, 12466 917-687-5373 Contact: Raleigh Green Email: raleigh@raleighgreeninc.com Website: www.raleighgreeninc.com Advertising/Marketing, Web Development Scrub-a-Dub Car Wash 13 North Main St. Ellenville, NY 845-338-9373 Contact: Anne Kleeschulte Email: kleeschulte5some@hvc.rr.com Website: www.kleeschulte5some@hvc.rrcom Automobile - Car Wash Solomon L. Melamed, CPA, PC PO Box 505 Route 209 Kerhonkson, NY 12446 845-626-4518 Fax: 845-626-2418 Contact: Solomon Melamed Email: cpassol@hvi.net Accountants

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REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2011

HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT Jim Smith Photography

Mohonk Mountain House

THE BUSINESS OF CULTURE The Unique Draw of Our Region, and Its Limitless Potential By Greg Schoenfeld

hoose a hundred random area residents and ask them how and why they have come to be a neighbor. Chances are, you’re bound to discover some common themes. Some may be natives to the Mid-Hudson Valley who left the region only to discover that, in order to be where they wanted to be, no travel was required after all. Still more might have been onetime SUNY New Paltz students who, after some years within the community, found that going home meant staying put. Perhaps others may have taken a random jaunt, a hike, a family getaway at some point in their lives, and upon departing, just felt that indescribable sense that they were going in the wrong direction. For more than a century, the singular and diverse beauty, convenient location, and the inherent aura of this region have brought droves of people for adventure, for a fresh start, or simply a change of scenery. There is an ongoing story here that people want to know more about. Once they arrive, they become a part of shaping the tale. The root of that appeal, however, is both powerful and equally difficult to name. Is it the majesty of the Shawangunk Ridge? Of course. Is it the historic spirit of New York’s first 10

capital, Kingston? Absolutely. Is it the fabled hospitality of the Mohonk Mountain House, the Rondout Valley’s prized sweet corn, the prized collection of artwork at the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art? Yes, yes, and yes. Generations of freethinkers, artists, and performers have found their inspiration here, though neither a guitar nor an improv act is required to be an integral part of the region’s small-town feel and supportive community. And one final detail, sometimes overlooked, is this: The culture of the Mid-Hudson Valley makes for good business. Culture Shaping Destiny

Jason Stern, Co-Founder and Publisher of Chronogram Magazine and Luminary Publishing (publisher of the Regional Report), has made celebrating the culture itself his life’s work. “Here, everything a business is flows from this culture,” Stern says. “Every dish, every publication, any product originates from the culture. It is the vital heart of business. Everything else is simply details.” The culture, the environment, and the economy are all key components that are mutually supportive in this region, Stern goes on to explain. It is what creates a sustainable reality for business, as well as what

draws both visitors and those who wish to relocate here. “Success here is based upon our relationships,” says Stern. “Employees are part of the community, customers are part of the community. The beauty is in the interconnectedness. A local economy is the defining aspect in the service we provide, and everybody is invested in sustaining and nourishing the cultural life of the MidHudson Valley.” For the proprietor of New Paltz’s G. Steve Jordan Gallery, the wellspring of our natural environment has helped shape both his work and his success. Jordan is a rock-climbing enthusiast who, like so many, fell in love with the area and made it his own. He traded in his Washington, DC activist life for a camera, with which he captures and shares the wonders of the local landscape. “The beauty is different for every person,” says Jordan. “I think it’s important that it’s not an intimidating landscape—rather, it’s an accessible one.” Jordan is constantly touched by the recognition that his customers have for the value of the valley region. “People see themselves in my photos—they see what they feel, what speaks to them,” Jordan explains. “They really do know what a great treasure this place is. Isn’t that amazing?”

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“Every dish, every publication, any product originates from the culture. It is the vital heart of business. Everything else is simply details.” —Jason Stern, Publisher, Luminary Publishing

The Land That Sustains Us

The bounty of the land is also a focal point for Chef Marcus Giuliano’s connection with the culture, though it is the fruits (and vegetables and meats, for that matter) of local agriculture that speak loudest to him. Born and raised in Ulster County, Giuliano traveled the U.S. and Europe before he and wife Jamie decided to return to Ellenville to make a home for their family, and open their Aroma Thyme Bistro in 2003. Giuliano’s menu is a showpiece for organically grown whole foods and features fresh, local products in every dish. “It’s amazing to me as a chef to be part of the history here,” Giuliano exclaims. “The farm scene, the relationship to our land, our food. Wherever you go around the country the Hudson Valley is a known quantity among chefs.” It is exactly our unique culture that makes the experience special, he believes, and it is the members of the community that, in turn, sustain its impact. “There are certain places across the country that get it, and in the Hudson Valley, its just happening. The consciousness is at a different level. Supporting locally, buying locally, eating locally. A lot of our businesses cater to that pride and mutual support.” In order to preserve the potential that the culture provides the community, says March Gallagher, Ulster County Deputy Director for Economic Development, it must be properly cared for. Gallagher’s business is making sure that our culturally based economy is successfully communicated, so that it can, in fact, sustain the region. “Because of its natural beauty and its proximity to New York City, the area has always attracted a wide talent base, one that continually furthers its appeal,” explains Gallagher, “but, like anything, it needs sun and water necessary to make it flourish. The more awareness we can create about the many choices we have to offer, the more success it will mean for the community.”

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BEYOND THE BOTTOM LINE

Here in the Mid-Hudson Valley, we may well have a better business model to offer. On a local and regional level, business owners and members of the economic community leadership consistently provide examples of an approach in which prosperity goes hand in hand with an ethical underpinning. “You can’t separate doing what’s right for altruistic reasons from doing what’s right for personal reasons if what you want is sustainable growth and success,” says Chris Drouin, Board Chair of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce, and owner of Beyond Wealth Management financial planning company. The Chamber, Drouin reminds, is a business in and of itself; its clients are the members that it represents, and the integrity with which it regards them is elemental to collective success. “Within the organization, there is a cross-accountability. We all do our part,” Drouin explains. “It’s all about that trust, and those relationships. The Chamber must deliver on what it says it’s going to do, and in turn the members further the Chamber’s ability to continue to serve its community.” 12

continued from front cover

“It isn’t just about the dollar you make today, it’s about the lasting trust you build with your customers.” — A. J. Jamal, Owner, Royal King Cleaners

Drouin also applies those same standards to his own work, asserting the necessity of balancing careful consideration with practicality, especially when helping clients plan for their financial future. “It may be easy for me to keep you happy with a quick turnaround today, but I’m going to have to answer to you years from now. My honesty is essential if you’re going to trust that I’m acting in your best interests.” Kathleen Packard, owner of KathodeRay Media, firmly asserts that accountability— both to her clients, and to her staff—are intrinsic to the company’s continued success. In an economic climate where profit margins are dwindling and inexpensive

labor, in almost any field, is readily available, Packard remains devoted to the high standards that have gotten her to this point. Rather than downsizing, she has consistently been adding members to her team. “More and more, I operate by one basic rule: I treat people how I want to be treated,” says Packard. “I’ve found that if you have happier employees, they’ll work harder for you. I ask a lot, but I make sure people are treated and compensated appropriately. From a karma standpoint, from a team standpoint, it’s just the right thing to do—and honestly, I’ve been a lot more successful the past few years as a result. It translates to the service we provide our clients.”

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A. J. Jamal, owner of Royal King Cleaners in New Paltz and Stone Ridge, concurs that adhering to one’s own high standards and long term success are inseparable. “It isn’t just about the dollar you make today, it’s about the lasting trust you build with your customers,” says Jamal. “The people that come to you are a part of your community, and to be successful here, that’s the respect you should give them.” Jamal has been serving customers in New Paltz since he was 14, working for his father at Chestnut Petroleum Distributor, Inc. (New Paltz’s Mobil station on Main Street) before opening his own business. “My father taught me to treat each customer as if they were the most important one,” adds Jamal. “That’s the secret to longevity.”

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Building the Better Businessperson

There could scarcely be a more essential place to instill a commitment to quality business ethics than at the educational level. At the SUNY New Paltz School of Business, no standard is more integral to their approach. Dr. Hadi Salavitabar, Dean of the School of Business, cannot stress enough how fundamental ethics are to the curriculum and the character of the school itself. “We cannot just give students the tools and a lesson about operating with the highest ethical standards,” insists Dr. Salavitabar. “We cannot have them feel we are just telling them what to do. It must become a part of the mindset, one that literally makes them a better person.” Salavitabar explains that, in order to instill a long-term ethical outlook, ethical training must be consistent with finance education. Among other practices, the school has each student undergo computerized ethics testing, as well as affixing the school’s comprehensive Ethics Statement to each and every curriculum document. The mission statement’s closing paragraph exemplifies the school’s dedication to this purpose: We, the members of the SUNY New Paltz School of Business community, are committed to practicing the highest standards of ethical behavior and demonstrating integrity in all we do. We practice these standards and expect them to be demonstrated by others not only in our business dealings, but in all our relationships. Ours is a culture

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REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2011

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of integrity. For us, ethical behavior means adhering to certain standards in both public and private. Does Salavitabar believe that poor business ethics is a new problem? No, he maintains there is simply greater awareness now, and along with it, greater responsibility. “Unfortunately, it has always been the case. Now we just know better—look at Enron, look at junk bonds, the evidence is plentiful. Our students learn that every one of us is affected—the magnitude doesn’t matter, the behavior does.” Answering to a Higher Power

The region also boasts an organization that operates at the pinnacle of exemplary principles: as New York State’s largest member and visitor-supported nature preserve, the Mohonk Preserve prides itself upon a long heritage of adherence to the highest ethical standards in all areas of its operations. The Preserve, explains Director of Communications Gretchen Reed, is honorbound in its stewardship of the land which is such an essential part of the region’s identity, as well as representing a make-or-break portion of its tourism economy. “We like to say we answer to a higher authority,” says Reed. “The environment itself.” Mohonk Preserve Executive Director Glenn Hoagland explains that to properly maintain and protect over 7,000 acres of open space and wildlife requires operating with far more than good conscience. Among the rules and laws the Preserve complies with are the Principles for Good Governance and Ethical Practice developed by the Panel on the Non Profit Sector; the standards of the National Council on Planned Giving and the Association of Fundraising Professionals; the regulations, rules, and guidelines of the U.S. Department of the Treasury; and the charity laws of all states. The depth of the Preserve’s commitment, and its success, is evidenced in every preserved acre, the depth of its programs, and the many communities it serves. That the Preserve continues to achieve its goal, which, as Hoagland explains, is “to protect the Shawangunk Mountains by inspiring people to care for, enjoy, and explore the natural world,” serves as an inspirational benchmark.

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MEMBER UPDATES Santora Bequest for SUNY New Paltz Foundation The SUNY New Paltz Foundation received a gift of nearly $200,000 from Olga Santora, retired professor of elementary education who passed away in May 2010. The gift will benefit graduate students in the School of Education who are pursuing a master’s degree or a Certificate of Advanced Studies. Santora’s bequest creates the Foundation’s largest endowment for graduate students, and is the largest gift the college has received from a current or former member of the faculty. For more information, visit www.newpaltz.edu/foundation or to speak with a gifts officer call 845-257-3239.

Mark Motler Joins Arnoff Moving and Storage Mark Motler, former Executive Director of the New York State Movers & Warehousemen’s Association, has joined Arnoff Moving and Storage as Director of Operations, where he will be responsible for the continuing improvement of Arnoff’s operations servicing clients throughout the Northeast and globally. Hudson Valley-based Arnoff Moving and Storage is a five-generation family owned and operated transportation company specializing in handling executive and family relocations, office and industrial moves, rigging and complete turnkey logistic services for facility changes. For more information, visit www. arnoff.com.

Donation of Teddy Bears to SLCH St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital (SLCH) pediatric patients received a donation of 72 teddy bears from Teddy’s Love Children (TLC) of the Orange, Rockland District Masonic Association. SLCH is the first organization in the United States to receive these TLC teddy bears. SLCH, a Clinical Affiliate of the Mount Sinai Hospital, is a not-for-profit community hospital with campuses in Newburgh and Cornwall. The hospital is dedicated to serving the health care needs of the Hudson Valley and aspires to excellence in the delivery of quality, compassionate healthcare services.

Christina Bark and Joan Lonergan Join Business Advisory Council The SUNY New Paltz School of Business announces the addition of Christina M. Bark, J.D., Business Advisor and Strategy Professional at Christina Bark & Associates; and Joan

Lonergan, Principal Broker/Owner, Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty to its Business Advisory Council. The Business Advisory Council, which consists of 40 senior executives from the business community, provides input to the School of Business to ensure that students are taught the skills, knowledge, and ethical behaviors required for successful and satisfying business careers. For more information, visit www.newpaltz.edu/schoolofbusiness.

Riverside Bank Rated 5 Stars by BauerFinancial Riverside Bank has been recognized as a superior 5-Star rated bank by BauerFinancial, Inc., the nation’s leading bank rating and research firm. To earn this rating Riverside Bank reported impressive capital levels and an enviable loan portfolio with negligible levels of delinquent loans. Riverside Bank has earned this 5-Star Superior rating for the last eight consecutive quarters. Riverside Bank has been effectively meeting the needs of its local communities for 23 years. It currently operates through four conveniently located offices in Fishkill, Newburgh and Poughkeepsie, and can also be found online at www.riversidebankhv.com.

Craig Thomas Pest Control Raises $30,000 for Diabetes Research Approximately 80 people per day are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in the U.S. according to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). In September, Craig Thomas Pest Control partnered with Cumulus Broadcasting for the 28th Annual Craig Thomas Pest Control Roof-a-thon, raising $30,000 during the three-day event. Craig Thomas Pest Control offers residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional pest management services, structural repair and nuisance wildlife services to Dutchess, Putnam, Orange, Sullivan, Ulster, Columbia, Greene, and Rockland Counties. For more information, call 800-255-6777 or visit www.callcraig.com.

CDPHP Adds Products for 2012 CDPHP announces innovative products and enhancements for 2012 that add value with new ways to save groups money, innovative methods to engage with and keep members healthy, and more ways to work with them to meet their unique health plan coverage needs, including new insurance designs, a new $365 deductible plan, Rx for Less program, lifestyle and low-cost prescription drugs riders, easier

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.

administration and use of health reimbursement arrangements, and enhanced ecommunications/member engagement tools. For more information, visit www.cdphp.com.

CDPHP Receives High Marks in Health Insurance Rankings The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) has released its 2011-2012 Health Insurance Plan Rankings, and several CDPHP health plans have again placed among the top health plans in New York State. CDPHP Select Plan (Medicaid) is the top-ranked plan (#5 nationally); CDPHP Medicare Choices HMO remains ranked #2 (#16 nationally); CDPHP HMO was ranked #2 (#22 nationally) and CDPHP HMO/POS was ranked #3 (#27 nationally). For more information about the rankings, you can visit www.ncqa.org/rankingsinfo.

HVFCU Opens New Branch in Montgomery Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union (HVFCU) announced the opening of its newest branch location at 30 Hawkins Drive, Montgomery, just north of the intersection of Route 84 and Route 208 at exit five. With approximately 5,000 square feet of space, the branch offers six teller windows, two driveup teller windows, six offices for financial services representatives, one drive-up ATM and one walk-up ATM, as well as a fee-free coin machine. HVFCU is a full service, not-forprofit financial cooperative serving more than 248,000 members. For more information, call 845-463-3011 or visit www.hvfcu.org. REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2012

Richard Heyl de Ortiz named director of CASA Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA) has appointed Richard Heyl de Ortiz as executive director. CASA’s highly trained advocate volunteers are appointed by family court to be a caring presence for abused, neglected and abandoned children, serving as the child’s voice in court to achieve CASA’s ultimate goal: a safe, permanent home for every child. Heyl de Ortiz was an advocate volunteer from 2002 to 2004 and was CASA’s co-director from 2005 to 2008. He and his partner are parents to a child formerly assigned to CASA, whom they adopted in 2003. For more information, visit www.casaulster.org or call 845-339-7543.

ulster savings bank recognition breakfast Over 125 non-profit agencies across the Hudson Valley were recognized at Ulster Savings Bank’s 11th Annual Community Recognition Breakfast, held in October at Wiltwyck Golf Club in Kingston. Andrea Reynolds, President and CEO of Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley, served as guest speaker at the breakfast. Michael Shaughnessey of Ulster Savings Bank also noted the work of the Ulster Savings Charitable Foundation, formed in 2003 to assist the local community in areas of housing, education and human services, and the volunteer efforts of Ulster Savings Bank’s employees. For more information, visit www.usltersavings.com.

Hoover Architecture

Attends Stormwater Seminar Kim Hoover, principal of Hoover Architecture PLLC in Gardiner, recently participated in a seminar on managing stormwater through the use of source control. Green infrastructure such as green roofs, rain gardens, vegetated swales, and permeable paving are just a few of the elements New York State is now encouraging the use of in managing on-site stormwater to reduce runoff and erosion. For more information, visit www. HooverArchitecture.com or call 845-598-4762.

50,000th Patient at FirstCare In October, FirstCare Walk-In Medical Center celebrated its 50,000th patient visit when Oliver Fisher came in for a flu vaccine. FirstCare, owned by doctors Herbert and Stephen Weinman as well as family member Virginia Leitner, RPA-C, has been operating for almost four years, currently has over 19,000 16

registered families, and includes Urgent Medical Care, Family Practice, Physical Therapy, Essence MediSpa for cosmetic dermatology and the Heart Center. For more information, visit www. FirstCareMedCenter.com or call 845-691-DOCS.

Megan Mastowski and Robert Wilson Join VDD&W CPAs Megan Mastowski and Robert Wilson have joined Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni and Weddell, LLP, CPAs as Junior Accountants in the Newburgh office. Megan is a graduate of Pace University and an active member in her community. Robert is finishing his Associates Degree from Axia University of Phoenix with plans to transfer to SUNY New Paltz. He is NCRA and Experian Compliance Certified. Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell, LLP, with offices in Newburgh, Tarrytown, and Wappinger’s Falls, provides accounting, auditing, tax and business consulting services. For more information, visit www.vddw.com.

Irene Berner Runs NYC Marathon for Charity Irene Berner, CFP, of Berner Financial Services, completed the ING NYC Marathon on November 6. Irene ran with Team NY Rotary and raised close to $3,000 for the Ronald McDonald House and other New York Rotary Foundation charities. She ran the race in memory of her longtime friend, Joe Reinhold, who passed away last year from cancer. Berner Financial Services, established in 1996, is a New Paltz based financial planning firm offering Financial Planning and Professional Asset Management. For more information on Berner Financial Services or the NYC Marathon experience, contact Irene at 845-256-1950.

Nicholas P. Bona of Sedore Hudson Valley CPAs Receives CPA License Sedore Hudson Valley CPAs accountant Nicholas P. Bona has received his Certified Public Accounting license. Bona joined Sedore as a staff accountant in July 2010 and specializes in serving municipal and non-profit clients. Bona graduated cum laude with a BS in Accounting from SUNY New Paltz, where he was also a volunteer tutor and a member of the Accountant & Finance Association. Sedore Hudson Valley CPAs, with offices in Poughkeepsie, Fishkill and Port Jervis, is a full service financial provider including general accounting, tax, audit, valuation and planning and consulting. For more information, visit sedoreco.com or call 845-485-5511.

HVFCU Goes Tobacco Free Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union (HVFCU) officially became a tobacco-free organization on November 17, 2011 to coincide with the American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout. In recognition of this milestone, HVFCU ceremoniously removed the smoking gazebo from its headquarters. HVFCU employees and board members were joined by representatives from the American Cancer Society, Smoke Free Dutchess/TFAC of Ulster County, and CAPE. For more about the Great American Smokeout, visit www.cancer.org. To learn more about HVFCU, visit www.hvfcu.org.

Ekaterini Vlamis of Edgewood Consulting & Services Publishes Master’s Thesis Ekaterini Vlamis of Edgewood Consulting & Services has published her Master’s thesis research in the Journal for Experiential Education, a peer-reviewed academic journal. It was a life-long goal, and something she dreamed about doing since graduating with an MS in Kinesiology from the Outdoor Education Department at the University of New Hampshire in 2002. The title and abstract may be viewed online at aee.metapress.com/ content/y45j260j31g1v7r3. This publication speaks to Ekaterini’s credibility and qualifications to lead effective adventure programs to better serve her clients. For more information about Edgewood Consulting Services, visit www.edgewoodcs.com.

Kevin D. White Joins SLCH Board of Trustees St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital (SLCH) has named Kevin D. White, Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Newburgh, to its Board of Trustees, which oversees hospital operations and guides its mission to serve the health care needs of this community. White is also a professor at SUNY Orange in Newburgh, where he teaches courses on Social Sciences. For more information, visit www.stlukescornwallhospital.org.

SUNY New Paltz Gala at Mohonk Mountain House SUNY New Paltz proudly celebrated Jeffrey and Joanne Fredenberg and Barbara Scherr as the guests of honor at the ninth annual Gala Celebrating New Paltz, held at Mohonk Mountain House in November. The Fredenbergs and Mrs. Scherr were recognized for their significant and sustained commitment to volunteerism in the Hudson Valley. Event sponsors included Campus Auxiliary Services, The Kempner Corporation, Health Alliance of the Hudson Valley,

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Empire State Bank, M&T Bank, Mohonk Mountain House, Viking Industries and Woodland Pond at New Paltz. For more information, visit www.newpaltz.edu/gala.

Ulster Savings Names Lisa Marie Cathie President and CEO Lisa Marie Cathie was named President and CEO of Ulster Savings Bank. A lifelong resident of the Hudson Valley, Cathie served most recently as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Orange County Trust Company, where she directed the overall operations of the organization, including branch administration, information technology, business development and loan servicing. She is a graduate of the Stonier Graduate School of Banking at the University of Pennsylvania, Marist College and Dutchess Community College. For more information about Ulster Savings Bank, visit www.ulstersavings.com.

Karen Nelthrope and Charles D’Alessio Join Sedore Hudson Valley CPAs Sedore Hudson Valley CPAs has hired Karen Nelthrope, CPA as Senior Accountant and Charles D’Alessio as a Senior Tax Accountant. Nelthrope brings extensive experience in auditing, with a concentration in construction accounting, along with consulting and tax preparation experience for partnerships, municipalities, corporations and individuals. D’Alessio specializes in complex tax services for high net worth individuals and has experience in providing tax compliance and consulting services for construction and manufacturing corporations and financial and tax services for partnerships, estates and non-profit organizations. For more information, visit sedoreco.com or call 845-485-5511.

Gail Yonnetti of Ulster Insurance Awarded CPIA Designation Ulster Insurance Services, Inc., a subsidiary of Ulster Savings Bank, is pleased to announce that Gail Yonnetti, Senior Account Manager, Commercial Lines, was recently awarded the designation of Certified Professional Insurance Agent (CPIA) from the American Insurance Marketing and Sales Society. In addition to this latest certification, she holds the Certified Insurance Service Representative designation. She joined Ulster Insurance Services in 2003. For more information about Ulster Insurance Services, Inc.’s numerous personal and business insurance products and services, please call Ulster Savings at (845) 338-6000 or visit www.ulstersavings.com. REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2011

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REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2011

THE BOTTOM LINE LEGISLATION AND NEWS THAT AFFECTS YOUR BUSINESS Compiled by Gregory Schoenfeld New York Buys In

A day after announcing income tax shifts, Governor Cuomo’s office announced that the Mid-Hudson region will get $67 million in state grants for job creation. The money is to be spread over 61 projects in seven counties. Some examples include Ceres Technologies in Saugerties, which will get $1 million to advance thin-film solar technology, and another $8 million to be invested in various manufacturing firms. More than $3 million will go toward infrastructure investments for local municipalities, and upward of $30 million will be given to bolster housing development and to community revitalization throughout the region. Cuomo announced that he, Senate Republican leader Dean Skelos, and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver are planning another round of competitive grants next year as well. The governor said the new program is needed after decades of losing jobs statewide to other states and nations.  You Can Only Choose One

A new study, conducted by the Brennan Center for Justice at the New York University Law School found that up to 60,000 votes cast in New York state elections last year were voided. The problem: voters unintentionally cast their ballots for more than one candidate; and, according to the New York Times, mislaid votes predominantly affected districts with larger percentages of minority voters. Inadequate instructions and software used with new electronic voting machines appear to be the culprit. Based upon the study, acting Director of Brennan’s Democracy Program Lawrence Norden projects that, without significant improvements, over 100,000 votes could be miscast in next year’s presidential election. The New York State Board of Elections has agreed to provide clearer instructions for electronic voting machine usage before next November. 20

Love Thy Neighbor

A new Siena College study finds that, despite pressing economic difficulties, New Yorkers still highly esteem the concept of being a good neighbor. The 2011 New York Civic Health Index found that despite high unemployment and troubled household finances, people remain committed to the ideals of contributing to their communities: whether by volunteering, participating in local government, or simply helping their neighbors. According to the study, volunteering remains important to 80 percent of New Yorkers. “New Yorkers feel that volunteering changes lives,” said Don Levy, director of the Siena Research Institute. The study did find, however, that though New Yorkers would like to volunteer their time, they are not sufficiently informed about where to direct their energies: despite their high standards, only 39 percent actually work with volunteer organizations. “New Yorkers are a charitable and altruistic people who require additional structure,” Levy said. Rebalancing the Tax Burden

In early December, the New York State Senate voted 55-0 and the Assembly 1308 to implement its second major income tax increase in two years; yet this time it will charge millionaires more, but give 4.4 million middle-class residents a rare

break, worth $200 to $400 a year. The plan, backed by Governor Andrew Cuomo, will introduce tax savings to most households with annual earnings of $40,000 to $300,000, or single filers making $20,000 to $150,000 a year. Those reductions will be paid for by increasing taxes for households making over $2 million, or single filers making $1 million, from 6.85 percent to 8.82 percent. “This was a function of an economic reality and deteriorating economic conditions,” Cuomo said after the Senate vote. The goals are to stimulate job growth and reduce the state deficit. Additionally, the tax increase will supplement a break in Metropolitan Transit Authority payroll tax for small businesses and $50 million in flood aid to upstate communities. The funding is also expected to put off another year of cuts to education and health care. A High-Stakes Bid for Revenue

Governor Andrew Cuomo announced in a recent Op-Ed piece that he plans to pursue legalizing casino gambling in the state. Cuomo said he supports “a comprehensive gaming plan—recognizing the reality that New York is already in the gaming business—and create destination gaming locations.” Speculation about how this might be applied includes either letting the state’s racetracks add table games (something the racetrack owners are heavily lobbying for), or designating certain areas of the state, such as the Catskills, as developable by privately owned casinos. The earliest the legalization of casino gambling could take place is 2013, theoretically after the State Legislature approved changes to the state constitution, and then put the matter in front of voters. Seneca Nation of Indians President Robert Odawi Porter warned, however, that the state should be cautious about going forward with casino gambling, stating that the Senecas have exclusive gaming rights in Western New York through their compact in 2001.

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• Feed • Fertilizers • Shavings

• Fencing • Pet Food & Supplies • Lawn & Garden Supplies

WARM F R O NT W O O D P E L L E T S A R E IN S T OCK ! !

Phone | (845) 255-0050 Fax | (845) 255-7845 145 Route 32 North, New Paltz, NY 12561 (GPS: 145 North Chestnut Street)

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EVENT SPOTLIGHT

Do You Have The Golden Ticket?

After-Hours Mixer And 5th Annual $10,000 Pot-O-Gold Raffle

ne of the favorite New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce events has come around again: the March After-Hours Mixer and Pot-OGold Raffle. Combining great food, relaxed networking, and a chance for the big $10,000 prize, the Chamber once again hosts this entertaining annual affair at Highland’s Rocking Horse Ranch (600 Route 44/55) on Tuesday, March 13, from 5:30pm– 7:30pm. All are encouraged to join friends, colleagues, and community members to talk, taste, and test their luck. Admission is complimentary for Chamber members,

though non-members are encouraged to join in as well for a $15 entrance fee. Only 300 tickets will be sold for the Pot-OGold drawing. At a cost of $100 each, tickets will be available prior to the event from any Chamber Board member or at the Chamber office, at 257 Main Street New Paltz. Tickets will also be available during the first hour of the Mixer. In addition to the $10,000 top prize, 10 second-place prizes of $100 will be awarded, as well as 10 third-place $50 winning tickets. Beyond a shot at the big money, ticket holders can also use their tickets to enjoy the valuable discounts at five terrific

local restaurants, including A Tavola and LaBella Pizza Bistro in New Paltz, the Toad Holly Pub in Tillson, Cosimo’s Brick Oven in Poughkeepsie, and Tuthill House at the Mill in Gardiner. Though ticket holders need not be present in order to win, there are certainly plenty of reasons to be in attendance. Among them are the additional, enticing prizes that will be available in the Silent Auction, the 50/50 Raffle, and the Fisherman’s Raffle at the event. Reservations are required, and can be attained by calling the Chamber at 845-255-0243, or emailing info@newpaltzchamber.org.

Paying It Forward

Foundation Announces Launch Of Joyce Minard Scholarship

his past December 31 marked a monumental change for the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce, as celebrated President Joyce Minard retired her position. Minard’s career and tenure with the Chamber has been characterized by a commitment to expanding business potential and enhancing education and opportunity throughout the larger Mid-Hudson Valley community. In honor of Minard’s tireless efforts, the Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz is pleased to announce the launch of a new scholarship in her name. The Foundation is currently seeking donations to the scholarship fund, and hopes to award its first Joyce Minard Scholarship in June, 2012. The Regional Chamber of Commerce

Foundation at New Paltz is an organization that works to further the efforts the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce’s current slate of successful educational programs. The Foundation seeks to continue the spirit of Minard’s work with the addition of this new scholarship. As Ulster County Executive Mike Hein asserts, “Joyce has always managed to forge connections between our talented young people and our area’s vibrant businesses,” and the advent of this award is yet another step in the Foundation’s efforts towards expanding those possibilities. Foundation Scholarships provide opportunities for graduating high school seniors, students pursuing post-secondary degrees or accreditations, and adult, non-traditional

learners to accomplish their professional goals and promote a dynamic quality of life in the region. “The new Joyce Minard Scholarship joins the Foundation’s annual Educational Scholarships and Special Merit Awards and will stand in tribute to Joyce’s tireless work to materially improve the quality of life in the Hudson Valley by providing our region’s business people, key employees, job seekers, and students with opportunities to learn new skills and integrate into the local employment and entrepreneurial climate,” said Foundation Chair Kathy Ferrusi of Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union. The Foundation envisions a comprehensive program of educational activities and scholarships, all geared toward educating and supporting the community. REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2012

MEMBER PROFILES Equal-Opportunity Leadership By Gregory Schoenfeld NOTHING EXEMPLIFIES A HEALTHY BUSINESS COMMUNITY like the diversity

of its business owners, and the Mid-Hudson Valley boasts an ever-expanding melting pot par excellence. These women-owned-and-operated businesses are a testament to the distinctive and multi-dimensional quality of the region, one that encompasses every facet of our business collective. Some might say we have come a long way, but the truth is: we’re exactly where we should be.

MEMBER PROFILE

Moxie Cupcake

h, the sweet smell of success…and the sweet taste, too, for that matter. The New Paltz business landscape got a whole lot richer last year, when Jazz singer Josie Eriole decided to share her passion for baking. Last summer, after years of traveling and singing, an episode of the Food Network’s program “Cupcake Wars” provided Eriole with inspiration. “I was complaining about there not being anywhere, locally, to get a truly gourmet cupcake—like the ones we all see on TV,” explains Eriole, “and a light bulb went off.” After perfecting a couple of original scratch baked recipes and coming up with a name and logo, she sold her first batch of cupcakes to Cafeteria on Main Street in New Paltz by the end of that same month.

By the next weekend, Eriole had received her first order. (The name “Moxie,” Eriole explains, comes from a favorite saying of her husband’s grandfather, and the fact that she herself possesses a great deal of it.) As more and more customers discovered they loved what they were tasting, Eriole made the leap to a retail shop and officially opened the doors to Moxie Cupcake Bakeshop & Café in August of 2011. Her rapid success has been a testament to her true and infectious enjoyment of her craft, and a deep dedication to a satisfied customer. “I strive to make each visit an experience, and I love the outcome,” says Eriole. “I feel like the proud hostess every time someone walks out of my shop with a smile on their face and a warm home-baked feeling in their

bellies.” Moxie Cupcake will be expanding to a second location in the Water Street Market this February. Eriole is also a proud member of the community, and a committed advocate of giving back to it. “I, and therefore Moxie, are avid supporters of many charitable organizations, such as Family of New Paltz and Flood Aid,” says Eriole. “Those contributions, over the past few months, have probably been my proudest.” MOXIE CUPCAKE

215 Main Street New Paltz, New York 12561 845-255-2253 Josie Eriole

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MEMBER PROFILE

KathodeRay Media, Inc.

athleen Packard is glad to claim her place among the myriad transplants for whom the Mid-Hudson Valley’s call was too powerful to resist. “As a child, I had a great vacation in Upstate New York,” Packard recalls, “and upon moving to New York City I found that I would come up here often on weekends. And I basically fell in love with the Hudson Valley and Catskills.” She is equally proud of the quality of business she brought with her to offer the larger community. The independent spirit that launched Packard’s KathodeRay Media in 1996 is indicative of the kind of resolve that powers the success of the region’s businesses. Suspect of the indulgent nature characterized by the 1990’s dot-com boom, Packard chose to apply her School of Visual Arts background

and committed work ethic in her own way. As her marketing company grew, Packard turned her focus northward, seeking a better and freer environment for both herself and her business. In 2004, joined by husband and creative director, Wells Packard, she and KathodeRay Media made the move to their Greenville facility in Greene County. With ever-expanding design and branding services—a plan for a dedicated “small business” division is in the works for 2012—Packard’s dedication to her clients has helped grow her business to a team of 10 employees. And, as with so many of the region’s business leaders, she and her company also set community contribution at a high premium. Case in point: KathodeRay Media’s involvement in supporting fellow

businesses and families that were devastated during the recent storm season. “I am very proud of growing my company in the Hudson Valley region,” explains Packard. “I may have started it in New York City, but my success has been here. I enjoy bringing up my kids in a small town where they are creating lifelong friendships, and it is great to be amongst business owners that are supportive of myself and others.” KATHODERAY MEDIA, INC.

20 Country Estates Road Greenville, NY 12083 (518) 966-5600 Fax: (518) 966-5629

Kathleen M. Packard www.kathoderay.com

REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2012

MEMBER RENEWALS THANK YOU!

36 Main Restaurant & Wine Bar A Little Guest House A Victorian Knoll Allstate Insurance Company Richard Ostrander Agency Antiques Barn at Water Street Market Barnaby’s Restaurant & Bar Bermac Home Aides Inc. Berner Financial Services Bodymind Massage Therapy Brykill Farm C. T. Male Associates Captain Schoonmaker’s B & B Catskill Corn Maze Charmed Places Clove Cottages Colucci Shand Realty Linda Majetich Hansen Coupart Construction Company, Inc. Daybreak Virtual Office Solutions Devine Insurance Agency, Inc. Donald L. Grumbine, CSW Dr. Peter Kaplan Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits Freefall Express, dba Blue Sky Ranch Frog Hollow Farm Genco Dental Lab George Tukel Glen F. Kubista & Associates Healing Mind Psychiatric Care Hoover Architecture, PLLC Hudson Valley Cleaning Hudson Valley Resort and Spa Indian Ridge Preserve Jacobs Music Center Jeff Tisman Photography Jingle Bell B and B

MEMBER PROFILE

Berner Financial Services

s is often the case with so many local residents, the beauty and expansive draw of the greater New Paltz community was eventually the deciding factor that brought Irene Berner—and her business—to the region. As a longtime visitor, Berner always sensed that the captivating quality of the Mid-Hudson Valley would compel her and her family to become full-time residents. “I’ve always loved this area, and came up on weekends from the city many times when my kids were younger,” explains Berner. “I knew that eventually I’d move to the Hudson Valley.” When her daughter came to study at SUNY New Paltz, she knew the time had come. “I wanted to live and work in a great community, and New Paltz was it.” Berner brought both her appreciation for the area and her considerable finance expertise to the area from New York City in 1997. A commitment to a higher standard of living—for her family, and her clients—has played a pivotal role in the choices that have shaped Berner’s professional and personal life. She began her career in finance with a small Brooklyn brokerage firm in 1986, quickly discovering a passion for the industry and the finer details of the stock market. Berner joined finance giant Shearson

Lehman in the late `80s, but eventually became frustrated by the limitations of service that come with big business. “I didn’t like being told what I should recommend to my clients,” says Berner, “I wanted to be able to do the right thing for my clients and put their best interests first.” She formed her independent company in 1996, shortly before her move north. After earning her Certified Financial Planner designation in 1999, Berner added financial planning for her clients to her asset management services. Her commitment to her clients is matched by Berner’s dedication to her community. Involved with the New Paltz Rotary Club since 1999, Berner has also run two marathons and two half-marathons to raise money for charities. “I love being a part of this community,” Berner asserts. “Living in New Paltz and having a business here—it just doesn’t get any better than that.” BERNER FINANCIAL SERVICES

7 Maplebrook Lane New Paltz, NY 12561 845-256-1950 Fax: 845-256-1952 Irene Berner, CFP www.lpl.com/irene.berner

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MEMBER RENEWALS John De Nicolo, CPA John J. Lease Realtors Highland Office K & W Car Wash LaMirage Restaurant Laubach Insurance Agency/ Nationwide Insurance Lowe’s Home Improvement Main Street Bistro MapleStone Inn Mark L. Parisi, PhD. Masseo Landscape Inc. MEMBER PROFILE

Blue Stone Cottage Bed and Breakfast

ou would be hard-pressed to find a business course on how to harness magic; yet that is exactly what lies at core of Blue Stone Cottage Bed and Breakfast owner Heidi Racioppo’s business model. A student at SUNY New Paltz in the 1970s, Racioppo’s trip from to the campus from her home in High Falls—known to many as “The Center of the Universe” for reasons that, though palpable, are just as ethereal— led her daily past a cottage in the shadow of the Mohonk Mountain House that spoke to her. “I never forgot that cottage. It was as if it was made for me back in the 1930s,” says Racioppo. As luck—or something more powerful—would have it, ten years and a small family later, that cottage on the hill became hers. The house that was her home for the next two decades is now a singularly welcoming bed-and-breakfast that Racioppo lovingly touts to visitors as “Your Home in the Hudson Valley.” Home and community—and that special magic—has been the driving force behind Racioppo’s life’s work. “From the moment I walked into the High Falls post office in August of 1971, I was overwhelmed by this feeling that I had arrived at a predetermined destination—that I was home,”

Michael Zierler Scientific Editing Minard Law Mohonk Mountain Stage Co., Inc. New Horizons Asset Management Group New Paltz Auto Center

says Racioppo. True to form, her home was always the center of large gatherings, living room concerts and parties overflowing with friends. Five years ago, she put her penchant for hospitality to the test. “My father always said, ‘Take what you do best and capitalize on it,’ and now here I am,” smiles Racioppo. Her handmade bluestone garden, eclectically appointed rooms, and newly built outdoor pavilion are striking examples of this labor of love. “I like to think of myself as a good-time facilitator,” Racioppo adds, though it is hard to know where she finds the time. She adds business owner to her many other titles: mother, grandmother, 26-year kindergarten teacher at Marbletown’s Rosendale Elementary School, committed community activist, and Mohonk Mountain House employee (“I’m a good-time facilitator there, too,” she adds.) All in a day’s work at the Center of the Universe BLUE STONE COTTAGE B&B

Perfect Computer Solutions Present-Day Products Professional Computer Associates Robert Waltke & Son, LLC Rocking Horse Ranch Ronnee Barnett Textiles Roots & Wings SUNY Ulster Super 8 of Highland Tantillo’s Farm Market Terry Austin Cartoonist The Lace Outlet TVB Enterprises Van Vliet Orthodontics VanBuren Photography & Digital Media Lab Wallkill Valley Land Trust

440 Mohonk Road High Falls, NY 12440 845-687-7717 Heidi Racioppo

Water Street Market

www.bluestonecottagebandb.com

Members who renewed as of December 1, 2011.

Westwood Metes & Bounds Realty, Ltd. Wine Worldwide, Inc.

REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2012

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE TOGETHER In this issue, we address ways to capitalize on your Chamber membership.

he New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce serves as an important resource for you and your business by providing opportunities to connect, communicate and collaborate. Your membership here unlocks a lot of doors, but it’s up to you to push them wide open and seize the success behind them. While our networking events and business luncheons are great ways to build your unique networks and nurture your contacts, we understand that not all of you can attend them. Luckily, there are a pack of other advantages to membership that can help you achieve your networking goals. Here are just a few: Bro, Sure!

Representing the entire Hudson Valley, our Visitor Center is a valuable and heavily utilized asset for a community that is profoundly focused on the Think Local First principle. As a member of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce, you are invited to display your brochures and business cards 28

here, as well as offer token giveaways (brandemblazoned pens, key chains, etc.), building your business’s top-of-mind awareness. Finders Keepers

Stopping into our Visitor Center also presents an opportunity to learn more about your Chamber peers by collecting their brochures and business cards. Do you find yourself frequently referred by or referring to a certain kind of business? Chances are good you’ll find members here that can help you.

online membership directory (searchable by category and keyword), or our printed 2011/2012 Membership Directory to form new connections. Do you have questions or suggestions about how best to capitalize on your Chamber membership? Please give us a call, or, even better, stop in to see us at 257 Main Street, New Paltz. We are here to help you, but we can’t know what you need unless you tell us. Thank you, as always, for your loyal support. We look forward to seeing you soon!

A Laurel… and Hearty Handshake

You can also build your network by contacting new Chamber members to introduce yourself and your business. A personal note is a brilliant first step on the path to establishing a professional relationship. We encourage you to use the contact information for new members you’ll find in each quarterly issue of Regional Report to reach out with a warm welcome, and to use our

MEMBERSHIP SUCCESS COMMITTEE

CHAIR Patrick Turner Little Pond

Consulting Matt Rockett Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union Nancy Rafter Arrow Promotions John Sorlie Empire State Bank Nancy Thomas-Finn Recycle Depot

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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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