NNY Business February 2011

B

Y usIness February means peak for floral industry, p. 20

February 2011

Keep more of your cash

NNY tax professionals on making tax time pay n The decade in jobs numbers Page 10 n Couple living dream with B&B Page 19

Plus:

n Biz Tech Bytes n NNY Snapshot n Business History n Real Estate $2.95

Northern New York’s Premier Business Monthly Vol. 1 Issue 3 | www.nnybusiness.net

One of the area’s leading banks in mortgage lending.

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NNY Business | February 2011

Inside February 2011

14

COVER

14 MAXIMIZING RETURNS

The region’s tax professionals share some tips on how businesses and individuals can keep more cash at tax time.

18

HELP IS HERE For many, navigating the waters at tax time requires more than a life boat. Rest assured, help is there for those who need it most.

20

SPECIAL

10 A DECADE IN JOBS

Unemployment in Northern New York tops 10 percent. A report from the state’s Department of Labor examines what industries saw the most dramatic changes in the past 10 years.

FEATURES

19

LIVING A DREAM Marlene Norfolk always dreamed that she’d run a bed and breakfast. Honeyville Manor is more than a dream come true.

20 A RUN ON ROSES

Valentine’s Day is the busiest single-sale day of the year for NNY florists. Despite the stress, it’s worth putting smiles on so many faces.

22 PROFITS IN A BOTTLE

Empty wine bottles are filling up with green for one Gouverneur woman who has launched a new niche business.

19

February 2011 | NNY Business

|3

CONTRIBUTORS

BusIness

www.nnybusiness.net

Publishers

John B. Johnson Jr. Harold B. Johnson II Donald C. Alexander is chief executive officer of the Jefferson County Industrial Development Agency.

This month he writes about the impact of globalization on local economic development efforts. (p. 29)

Peter J. Whitmore is president and CEO of the Greater Watertown North Country Chamber of Commerce. He writes about balancing employee relations with business needs and how to reward employees. (p. 31)

Jay Matteson is the agricultural coordinator for the Jefferson County Agricultural Development Corp.

He writes about how dairy farmers raise calves while managing a safe, healthy herd for business. (p. 32)

Sarah O’Connell is an advisor for the New York State Small Business Development Center at Jefferson Community College.

She writes about lessons learned from poor customer service. (p. 34)

General Manager John B. Johnson

Executive Editor Bert Gault

Managing Editor Robert D. Gorman

Magazine Editor

Kenneth J. Eysaman

Editorial Assistant Kyle R. Hayes

Advertising Director Karen Romeo

Rande Richardson is executive director of the Northern New York Community Foundation. He writes about tools for people considering donations to nonprofits. (p. 30)

Jill Van Hoesen is the information security officer for Johnson Newspapers and a 25-year IT veteran.

She writes about potential tax savings for businesses upgrading technology. (p. 33)

Lance M. Evans is the executive officer for the Jefferson-Lewis and St. Lawrence County Board of Realtors. He takes a look at the impact changing tax laws may have on real estate. (p. 23)

William G. Wood is executive director of the Jefferson County Historical Society. He tells of some business connections between NNY and former U.S. presidents. (p. 44)

Advertising Specialists

Clarissa Collins, Katie Nelson

Circulation Director Cindy Werner

Photography

Norm Johnston, Justin Sorensen, Jason Hunter, Melanie Kimbler-Lago, Amanda Morrison

Ad Graphics, Design

Rick Gaskin, Julia Keegan, Brian Mitchell, Scott Smith, Todd Soules, Linda Zimmer

Norah Machia is a freelance writer and retired Watertown Daily Times staffer who lives in Watertown. She shares some options for those who need tax help the most. (p. 18)

Susan Mende is a Johnson Newspapers staff writer based in St. Lawrence County.

She discovered a Gouverneur woman who has turned empty wine bottles into profits. (p. 22)

Sarah Haase is a Johnson Newspapers staff writer. She goes behind the scenes of the region’s floral industry as florists prepare for the busiest single-sale day of the year. (p. 20)

Andrea Pedrick is a freelance writer who lives in Dexter.

She visits Honeyville Manor where a bed and breakfast is a dream come true for one north country couple. (p. 19)

MARKETPLACE Carthage Savings & Loan ...................... 2 HighTower Advisors ................................. 5 Fuller Insurance ....................................... 7 RBC Wealth Management ....................12 Village Office Supply ............................13 Watertown Savings Bank ......................16 H&R Block ............................................... 17 Gray & Gray CPA .................................. 17 Andrea Doane CPA .............................. 17 Exford & Exford Financial ...................... 17 Ameriprise Financial ............................. 17 Watertown Daily Times .......................... 18 NBT Bank ................................................ 21 NNY Business ................................... 22, 43 Watertown LDC ...................................... 23 UPS Store ................................................ 26 Westelcom ............................................. 27 Northern Federal Credit Union ............. 28

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NNY Business | February 2011

St. Lawrence Federal Credit Union ...... 29 Innovative Physical Therapy ............... 30 Regional Medical Management ......... 31 Slack Chemical Co. Inc. ........................ 32 Computer Doctor .................................. 33 Northern New York Community Foundation ........................ 34 Lofink Ford Mercury .............................. 36 Creg Systems .........................................37 Clarence Henry Coach ........................ 38 Truesdell’s Furniture ................................ 39 Howard Orthotics .................................. 40 Mixed Company ................................... 41 Johnny D’s Bistro 108 ............................ 42 GWNC Job Expo ................................... 45 Sea Com Federal Credit Union ........... 46 Subscriber Savings ................................ 47 Jefferson County IDA ............................ 48

NNY Business (ISSN 2159-6115), formerly Absolutely Business magazine, is published monthly by Johnson Newspaper Corp., 260 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601.

Copyright 2010, Johnson Newspaper Corp.

All material submitted to NNY Business becomes property of Johnson Newspaper Corp., publishers of the Watertown Daily Times, and will not be returned.

Subscription Rates 12 issues are $15 a year for Watertown Daily Times and affiliate newspaper subscribers and $25 a year for non-subscribers.

Call 315-782-1000 for delivery.

Submissions Send all editorial correspondence to keysaman@wdt.net Advertising For advertising rates and information in Jefferson and Lewis counties, e-mail ccollins@wdt.net In St. Lawrence County, e-mail knelson@ogd.com Please recycle this magazine.

24

INTERVIEW

24

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE When the north country’s Morgia Group left Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, the move made news in Chicago and on Wall Street. Managing partner P.J. Banazek talks about his firm’s biggest business decision.

COLUMNS ECONOMICALLY SPEAKING 29

AGRI-BUSINESS

32

NONPROFITS TODAY

30

BUSINESS TECH BYTES

COMMERCE CORNER

31

SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS 34

33

DEPARTMENTS EDITOR’S NOTE

6

CALENDAR

35

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

7

BUSINESS SCENE

37

ECONOMIC SNAPSHOT

8

DINING GUIDE

42

BUSINESS BRIEFCASE

10

BUSINESS HISTORY

44

REAL ESTATE ROUNDUP

23

WHAT’S HAPPENING HERE?

46

ON THE COVER

Cash pours from a wallet into Uncle Sam’s top hat in a photo illustration

by Johnson Newspapers staff photographers Jason Hunter and Melanie KimblerLago.

February 2011 | NNY Business

|5

EDITOR’S NOTE

W

hat a difference a month makes. On this challenging road to economic recovery, it appears that time is both our enemy and our friend. At least that much was clear to nearly 100 Northern New York business leaders recently.

On Jan. 21, NNY Business, along with the Watertown Daily Times and Carthage-based Slack Chemical Company, Inc., joined the Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce to sponsor NNY Outlook 2011. This year’s forum included a talented three-person panel with members who delivered perspectives on the economy from distinct points of view. Rob Simpson, president and CEO of Syracuse’s CenterState Center for Economic Opportunity, Greg Ken Eysaman Gardner, associate professor of business at SUNY Potsdam and Jay Matteson, Jefferson County agricultural coordinator, told of some bright spots since last month’s NNY Business reported the north country’s 2011 economic outlook.

Most notable was an uptick in the projected price of milk. With milk now expected to fetch $18 per 100 pounds, dairy farmers might be able to end the year in the black, or at least get what Jay called “a decent price.”

That’s one more slice of good news on the region’s economy I hope will come to pass. As for real reforms in Albany that can foster economic prosperity in the Empire State? Let’s hope that Gov. Andrew Cuomo also gets better with time.

n

n

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THIS MONTH IN NNY BUSINESS — Speaking of things that get better with time, we are very excited to see support for NNY Business growing since our December launch. From a surge in advertising, (thanks in no small part to the efforts of Advertising Specialist Clarissa Collins) to positive feedback from readers across the north country, we are thrilled to deliver a 48-page issue this month with more business news and content from across Jefferson, St. Lawrence and Lewis counties.

In addition to local columnists writing about agriculture, small business, nonprofits, economic development, real estate and business technology, you’ll find more news about north country companies in Business Briefcase. That’s where you’ll read about business happenings like ribbon cuttings, corporate giving, openings, closings and business activity not associated with individual promotions or achievements. For the latter, keep turning to People on the

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NNY Business | February 2011

Move. In a special report on pages 10 and 11 this month, you’ll find a by-the-numbers look at our region’s last decade in jobs. It paints a telling portrait of which sectors of our economy are doing well and which ones are not.

We also visit with P.J. Banazek for 20 questions. P.J. is managing director and partner at the Morgia Group, a 42-year-old investment firm and family business that his father in law, Tony Morgia, founded in 1968 right here in the north country. P.J. shares the story of what was likely the biggest business decision he and his partners Tony and Michael Morgia have ever made. n

n

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BUSINESS SCENE — Don’t miss this month’s Scene section, which starts on page 37. You will find 54 faces from nearly 30 different north country businesses and organizations. We joined folks at events like the 19th Annual Bridal Show at the Dulles State Office Building and a welcome reception for Fort Drum’s new senior commanders, Brig. Gen. Harry E. Miller and Col. Noel Nicolle, sponsored by the Fort Drum Regional Liaison Organization and NNY-Fort Drum Association of the United States Army. We also visited Lewis County professionals at the Lewis County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours in the beautiful new custom-built home of Dr. Howard and Jennifer Meny. The home was expertly crafted by Dean Case and his crew from longtime Boonville firm Adirondack Builders. n

n

n

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR — We are pleased to begin accepting letters to the editor for publication on any businessrelated topics as they pertain to Northern New York. You may send letters by, mail, fax or e-mail to: NNY Business, ATTN: Letters, 260 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601; 315-661-2522; keysaman@wdt.net.

n

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NNY ECONOPOLY — A number of people commented on

last month’s “NNY Econopoly” board. At least one business whose logo appears on the board is buying one for her boss to hang in his office. Anyone else who might want to order a board should drop me an e-mail or give me a call. I know the great folks at AVL Signs will appreciate your business.

As always, if you have any business news to share, drop me a note or call me at 661-2399. I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours in business,

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE Pharmacist honored

Kinney Drugs, Gouverneur, has named Jack Kriesick, supervising pharmacist at Watertown’s Route 11 Seaway Plaza store, recipient of Kinney Drugs “My Favorite Pharmacist” award for outstanding patient care.

Mr. Kriesick was selected based on customer voting at all 91 Kinney Drugs pharmacies in Central and Northern New York and Vermont. He received a plaque, an appreciation check and a monetary gift of equal value to donate to a charity of his choice.

Mr. Kriesick graduated from the University at Buffalo School of Pharmacy in 1987 and began his career with Kinney Drugs.

He has worked in several stores in Watertown and the surrounding communities.

Mr. Kriesick resides in Watertown with his wife, Jessica.

Banker promoted

KeyBank has promoted Steven M. Pierce, Adams Center, to senior vice president and senior relationship manager for the Central New York District.

He had been vice president and relationship manager.

In his new position, Mr. Pierce serves as senior account executive and adviser for Pierce commercial banking clients and manages all aspects of client relationships in Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence, Franklin and northern Oswego counties. He is working out of the bank’s 200 Washington St. office in Watertown.

Mr. Pierce earned his bachelor’s degree in economics from St. Lawrence University, Canton.

He serves on the board of directors for Samaritan Foundation of Northern New York and on the executive leadership team for North Country HeartWalk. He also serves on the board of directors and is treasurer for Seaway Trail Foundation and is account executive and past board treasurer for United Way of Northern New York.

Hired by bank

L. Anthony Constantino III was hired

by Community Bank System Inc., DeWitt, as a vice president and commercial loan officer for Jefferson and Oswego counties.

Mr. Constantino has more than 10 years of banking and relationship management experience, most recently with the business bankConstantino ing segment at HSBC Bank USA. He is a member of Financial Industry Regulatory Authority Inc., an association that regulates its member firms through the adoption and enforcement of rules and regulations governing business conduct. He is also a member of the Northern New York Builders Exchange scholarship committee.

Mr. Constantino resides in Clayton with his wife, Sharon, and son, Carter.

Got business milestones?

n Share your business milestones with NNY

Business. E-mail news releases and photos (.jpg/300 dpi) to editor Ken Eysaman at keysaman@wdt.net. The deadline for submissions is the 10th of the month for the following month’s issue. Photos that don’t appear in print may be posted on our Facebook page.

director of sales.

Ms. Harper was a fundraiser and researcher for SUNY Potsdam’s Department of College Advancement. She also held positions with the Northern Area Health Education Center Inc., Canton.

Ms. Harper will be working to build relationships with local health care facilities and physicians and educating the public about services offered by HSNNY. HSNNY provides home health services, including short term/acute care and longterm assistance, in St. Lawrence County.

Promoted at Penski

Penski Staffing has promoted Kim Stiles, Ogdensburg, to branch manager of its Ogdensburg office.

Ms. Stiles, previously senior staffing coordinator at Penski, has years of customer service and human resources experience.

She will lead the branch in recruiting, sales and customer service functions.

Penski Staffing has been aiding regional employers with their staffing, payroll and training needs for more than 30 years.

Joins the ‘Elite’

Attorney Martin J. Rothschild has been certified as a member of Elite Lawyers of

Named to sales post

Health Services of Northern New York, Potsdam, has appointed Taylor P. Harper

Please see People, page 13

Offering 30 years of service to our neighbors Aaron F. Fuller, Michael C. Gillette & Adam J. Fuller

110 South School St., Carthage, NY Insurance for businesses, public entities and non-profits.

A variety of products for all your insurance needs.

February 2011 | NNY Business

|7

8|

Average per-gallon milk price paid to N.Y. dairy farmers Dec. ’10 $1.37 Nov. ’10 $1.48 Dec. ’09 $1.30

(Percent gains and losses are over 12 months)

Vehicles crossing the Thousand Islands, OgdensburgPrescott and Seaway International (Massena) bridges

5.4%

Source: NYS Department of Agriculture

366,799 in December 2010 396,910 in November 2010 330,341 in December 2009

Average NNY price for gallon of regular unleaded gas

Source: T.I. Bridge Authority, Ogdensburg Bridge & Port Authority, Seaway International Bridge Corp.

Dec. ’10 $3.21 Nov. ’10 $3.05 Dec. ’09 $2.81

U.S.-Canadian dollar exchange rate (Canadian dollars per U.S. dollar)

14.2%

16.0%

Source: Federal Reserve Bank of N.Y.

Passengers at Watertown International Airport

Average NNY price for gallon of residential propane

540 in-bound and out-bound in December 2010 381 in-bound and out-bound in November 2010 460 in-bound and out-bound in December 2009

16.6%

17.4%

Source: NYS Energy Research and Development Authority

Jefferson-Lewis Board of Realtors single-family home sales

Source: Jefferson County Board of Legislators

77, median price $135,000 in November 2010 109, median price $139,000 in October 2010 102, median price $107,870 in November 2009

Nonagriculture jobs in the Jefferson-Lewis-St, Lawrence counties area, not including military positions 89,500 in December 2010 90,100 in November 2010 90,400 in December 2009

24.5% Price

Source: NYS Department of Agriculture

Jefferson County unemployment Dec. 10

Jefferson County sales tax receipts

10.4 %

Nov. 10 8.8%

Sep. 10

8.2% 7.9%

July 10

Jun. 10 May 10

8.3%

bugeted

7.7%

Mar. 10

Feb. 10

11.0%

Jan. 10

Q1 2010

Q2 2010

Q3 2010

10.8%

0.5%

$9.6M

Lewis collected share

10.4%

9.4%

Source: New York State Department of Labor (Not seasonally adjusted)

7.6%

$19.5M

9.3%

Dec. 09

bugeted

St. Lawrence collected share

8.4%

Apr. 10

$28.8M $19.6M

8.1%

2010 sales tax totals $31M Jefferson collected share

6.6%

Oct. 10

$16.8M

9.9%

$15M

Source: Jefferson-Lewis Board of Realtors Inc.

Aug. 10

1.0%

$18M

Sales

9.1%

25.2%

$16.3M

Dec. ’10 $3.37 Nov. ’10 $3.16 Dec. ’09 $2.89

4.8%

9.1%

Dec. ’10 $3.34 Nov. ’10 $3.15 Dec. ’09 $2.88

11%

$1.00 on Dec. 30, 2010 $1.03 on Nov. 30, 2010 $1.05 on Nov. 30, 2009

Average NNY price for gallon of home heating oil

Q4 2010

ECON SNAPSHOT

NNY

Economic indicators

$8.2M bugeted

17.0%

*Quarterly data are year over year comparisons and include cities.

*2010 figures represent county’s share it keeps.

City shares not included.

Source: Jefferson County Treasurer

Source: County Treasurers

Note: Due to updates in some “Econ. Snapshot” categories, numbers may differ from previously published prior month and year figures.

NNY Business | February 2011

NNY

Economic indicators St. Lawrence county unemployment rates

Lewis county unemployment rates

10.5% in December 2010 10.2% in November 2010 9.9% in December 2009

10.0% in December 2010 9.2% in November 2010 9.6% in December 2009

0.4

0.6

Percentage points

Percentage points

Source: NYS Department of Labor (Not seasonally adjusted)

Source: NYS Department of Labor (Not seasonally adjusted)

St. Lawrence Board of Realtors single-family home sales

Open welfare cases in Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties

53, median price $94,300 in December 2010 44, median price $79,690 in November 2010 56, median price $67,275 in December 2009

1,825 in December 2010 1.808 in November 2010 1,767 in December 2009

Sales

40.2%

3.3%

Price

Source: St. Lawrence Board of Realtors Inc.

Source: Social Service Depts. of Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties

Real estate sales

Watertown city sales

The following property sales were recorded in the Jefferson County clerk’s office. All sales are city of Watertown.

Jan. 11, 2011

Equity Loan Trust series, Irving, Texas, sold to George Bearup and Bonnie Bearup, Watertown $45,000 n 414 Fairview St., Helen M. Loveland, by Martha A. Loveland, attorney in fact, Watertown, sold to Ann M. Hinkelman, Glassboro, N.J. $65,000

n 0.250 acre, 412 Brainard St., Freddie L. Chatman Jr. and Symphonie Z. Chatman, Watertown, sold to Robert Kinzel III, Fort Lewis, Wash. $131,000

n 0.239 acre, South Ontario Drive, Yurii Borshch and Elena Petkova, both of San Antonio, Texas, sold to Christopher M. Hague and Kelley Hague, Andover, Kan. $230,000

n Central Avenue, Glen A. Wyeth, Spring Hill, Fla., sold to Kevin Converse, Watertown $25,000

n 0.73 acre, 262 Arsenal St., EPS Properties LLC, Rochester, sold to Rajit Inc., Watertown $400,000

Jan. 10, 2011

Dec. 29, 2010

n Two parcels, 1) 107 and 109 N. Meadow St.; 2) 0.03 acre, 510 Arsenal St., Anne M. Delaney, Watertown, sold to Aaron A. Netto, Rodman $30,000

Dec. 23, 2010

n 409 Seward St., Dustin A. Anderson and Melinda S. Anderson, Watertown, sold to Adam Michael Brooks, Fort Drum $130,000

n 0.16 acre, intersection California Avenue and Columbia Street, Richard W. Mooney and Linda Barker Mooney, Adams, sold to Leo A. Anzalone and Linda M. Anzalone, Watertown $150,000

Jan. 7, 2011

n 1008 Huntington St., Thomas O’Riley, Watertown, sold to Jerry J. Vecchio, Watertown $33,000

Jan. 4, 2011

n Four parcels, 1) 804 Bradley St.; 2) and 3) 810 Bradley St.; 4) 816 Bradley St., Josephine L. Doldo, trustee, Doldo Family Revocable Living Trust, Watertown, sold to AM Service Tech LLC, Watertown $365,000

n 0.20 acre, intersection Bowers and Myrtle Avenue, George C. Ronson and Helga Toper, successor co-trustees, Irene K. Snyder Trust, Clayton, sold to Jeremy R. Briggs and Lindsey L. Briggs, Watertown $123,000 n 237 E. Main St., Angel M. Medina Sr., Waynesboro, Pa., sold to Wendell Woodruff and Inga Davey, Lowville $35,000 n Two parcels, Grant Street and R666 Grant St., Michael Hohs, Watertown, sold to Jason M. Kemp, Watertown $147,500 n Frontenac Street, Jennifer L. Williams, Watertown, sold to Michael S. Minch, Calcium $108,000 n Flower Avenue West, Jacob S. Johnson, Watertown, sold to Sean P. Brett and Jennifer L. Brett, Watertown $275,000 n Academy Street, Jason Stauffer, Watertown, sold to John Robert Bashaar and Jessica Ann Bashaar, Chester, Va. $154,500

n 800 Bradley St., Josephine L. Doldo, Watertown, sold to AM Service Tech LLC, Watertown $55,000

n 119 N. Pearl Ave., Federal National Mortgage Association, Philadelphia, Pa., sold to Thomas A. Vickery and Julie W. Vickery, Dexter $57,000

n 0.37 acre, Mechanic Street, Michael McCarthy and Kelly R. McCarthy, Topsham, Maine, sold to Robert D. Connell, Watertown $53,000

Dec. 22, 2010

Dec. 30, 2010

n Two parcels, Lots 20 and 18, no addresses given, James Peter Nolan, executor, will of Timothy Robert Nolan, late of Watertown, sold to John F. Peebles and Karen A. Peebles, Adams, and Aaron D. Naklick, no address given $82,000 n 0.115 acre, 1200-1 Bronson St., U.S. National Bank Association, trustee, certificateholders, asset-backed Securities Corporation Home

TRANSACTIONS

5.4%

0.332 acre, Broadway Avenue West, Victor R. Leon and Frances M. Leon, Watertown, sold to Jennifer Williams, Watertown $180,000

$2,874,000 City real estate sales recorded over 21-day period, Dec. 22-Jan. 11, 2011

February 2011 | NNY Business

|9

NNY

Jefferson County share of total nonfarm jobs by employment supersector 2000 and 2010 29.3% 29.5%

Government Trade, transportation and utilities

20.7% 20.5% 13.8% 14.3%

Education, health

DECADE IN JOBS

Leisure, hospitality

10 |

8.7% 9.3%

Professional, business services

5.1%

6.4%

Manufacturing Natural resources, mining and construction

3.1%

5.2%

4.1% 4.0%

Other services Financial activities

3.8% 3.3%

Information Source: New York State Department of Labor (Data average of January-June job count)

9.7%

5.5%

2000 2010

2.0% 1.7%

0.0

5.0

10.0

15.0

20.0

25.0

30.0

35.0

St. Lawrence County share of total nonfarm jobs by employment supersector 2000 and 2010 28.1% 28.7%

Government Trade, transportation and utilities

21.8% 15.0% 14.6%

Education, health Leisure, hospitality

6.8% 7.1%

Professional, business services

6.0%

Manufacturing

3.9% 4.8%

Natural resources, mining and construction

4.1% 4.5%

Other services

4.4% 3.3%

Financial activities Information Source: New York State Department of Labor (Data average of January-June job count)

NNY Business | February 2011

28.0%

12.3%

2.7% 3.3%

2000 2010

1.0% 0.8%

0.0

5.0

10.0

15.0

20.0

25.0

30.0

35.0

Jefferson County employment levels by supersector, 2000 and 2010 Employment level Change Supersector 2000 2010 Net Percent Total nonfarm 39,200 42,000 +2,800 +7.1% Total private 27,700 29,600 +1,900 +6.9% Natural resources, mining and construction 1,200 2,200 +1,000 +83.3% Manufacturing 3,800 2,300 -1,500 -39.5% Trade, transportation and utilities 8,100 8,600 +500 +6.2% Information 800 700 -100 -12.5% Financial activities 1,500 1,400 -100 -6.7% Professional and business services 2,000 2,700 +700 +35.0% Educational and health services 5,400 6,000 +600 +11.1% Leisure and hospitality 3,400 3,900 +500 +14.7% Other services 1,700 1,700 +0 +0.0% Government 11,500 12,400 +900 +7.8%

Source: New York State Department of Labor (Data average of January-June job count)

St. Lawrence County employment levels by supersector, 2000 and 2010 Employment level Change Supersector 2000 2010 Net Percent Total nonfarm 41,300 39,700 -1,600 -3.9% Total private 29,700 28,200 -1,500 -5.1% Natural resources, mining and construction 1,800 1,300 -500 -27.8% Manufacturing 5,100 2,400 -2,700 -52.9% Trade, transportation and utilities 6,200 5,800 -400 -6.5% Information 400 300 -100 -25.0% Financial activities 1,100 800 -300 -27.3% Professional and business services 1,700 1,800 +100 +5.9% Educational and health services 9,000 11,100 +2,100 +23.3% Leisure and hospitality 2,800 2,800 +0 +0.0% Other services 1,600 1,900 +300 +18.8% Government 11,600 11,400 -200 -1.7%

Source: New York State Department of Labor (Data average of January-June job count)

Lewis County employment levels by supersector, 2000 and 2010

Employment level Change Supersector 2000 2010 Net Total nonfarm 6,700 6.400 -300 Total private 4,300 3,800 -500 Natural resources, mining and construction 300 200 -100 Manufacturing 1,500 1,100 -400 Trade, transportation and utilities 1,000 800 -200 Information 100 100 -0 Financial activities 100 100 -0 Professional and business services 300 200 -100 Educational and health services 300 400 +100 Leisure and hospitality 500 500 +0 Other services 300 400 +100 Government 2,500 2,600 +100

Percent -4.5% -11.6% -33.3% -26.7% -20.0% -0.0% -0.0% -33.3% +33.3% +0.0% +33.3% +4.0%

Source: New York State Department of Labor (Data average of January-June job count)

February 2011 | NNY Business

| 11

BUSINESS BRIEFCASE New website for Ogdensburg chamber

Bank gives to United Way Watertown Savings Bank recently donated $27,000 to the capital campaign of the United Way of Northern New York.

From left, Jayn Graves, chief professional officer of the United Way of Northern New York, and Mark R. Lavarnway, president of Watertown Savings Bank.

OGDENSBURG — The Greater Ogdensburg Chamber of Commerce will unveil a new, more informative website later this month.

The present site at www.ogdensburgny. com hasn’t been changed in three years.

The new site will feature more photographs and connect users to other websites of local interest, such as the Frederic Remington Art Museum site, www. fredericremington.org.

The chamber board also is entertaining the idea of hosting paid advertisements on the new website in hopes of raising money to avoid a budget deficit in the new year.

The chamber has made the decision not to raise membership dues for 2011.

at Eben Holden Dining Hall, St. Lawrence University.

James E. and Pamela A. Rose, owners of Boyden Brook Body Works, will be honored for their civic spirit and contribution to the chamber and the Canton community.

Boyden Brook Body Works helped refurbish Canton Central School’s Golden Bear mascot by donating time and materials to repair the bear. The business also gave the Canton Pavilion Zamboni a new paint job and is an avid contributor to area sports programs, community centers and Canton Winterfest.

Boyden Brook, a 9,000-square-foot building at 159 Meade Road, employs 10 full-time employees and has been in business since 1985.

Boyden Brook garners honor for civic spirit

CANTON —The Canton Chamber of Commerce will recognize Boyden Brook Body Works as the 2010 chamber Member of the Year at its annual celebration dinner

Donation aids museum

The St. Lawrence Federal Credit Union, Ogdensburg, recently donated $250 to the Frederic Remington Art Museum, Ogdensburg, in response to reduced city funding. From left, Todd Mashaw, CEO and treasurer of the Ogdensburg branches of the credit union, and Debbie Ormasen, senior accounting and finance manager of the museum.

Postal Council hosts seminars for mailers

The Central New York Postal Customer Council will host two workshops for local mailers. From 8:45 to 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 15, a seminar on the Business Customer Gateway will take place at the Taft Road post office in Syracuse. Mailers who use permits or are planning to convert to the Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMB) must use the Business Customer Gateway.

The gateway is an online application through www.usps.com that provides up-to-the-minute information for mailers, streamlining the mailing process.

Please see BRIEFCASE, page 28

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NNY Business | February 2011

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE People, from page 7 America. Admission is limited to lawyers who have won multimillion-dollar verdicts.

Mr. Rothschild, of the Rothschild Law Firm, East Syracuse, concentrates his practice in personal injury, construction and vehicle accidents and product liability. He is a 1971 graduate of Watertown High School.

Earns certification

Melinda M. Gault, executive director of the Community Action Planning Council, Watertown, has earned the “certified community action professional” designation.

The credential recognizes individuals who have refined their skills to help low-income people achieve economic stability.

Gault Mrs. Gault was appointed executive director of CAPC in 2002 after serving as deputy director for 10 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Clarkson University, Potsdam, and serves on the board of directors of the North Country Council for Social Agencies, the New York State Community Action Association and the New York State Weatherization Directors Association.

The Community Action Planning Council of Jefferson County is a private, nonprofit, multiservice agency.

distribution services to approximately 300,000 customers in Ontario, Canada, and 15,500 customers served by Enbridge St. Lawrence Gas in Northern New York.

James P. Ward has been promoted to the position of assistant general manager. Mr. Ward, a 27-year veteran of the company, has held successive Ward management positions with Enbridge St. Lawrence Gas. He is a Massena native and a SUNY Plattsburgh graduate. In his new position, Mr. Ward will assume responsibility for managing day-to-day operations.

Wins scholarship

Timmy J. Lashomb, Massena, is the first recipient of the North Country Scholarship for Real Estate Salespersons from the Professional Institute for Real Estate Training. The scholarship covers his 75-hour salesperson qualifying course offered by PIRT. Mr. Lashomb will begin working with Cheryl Yelle, Massena,

licensed real estate broker.

Mr. Lashomb, an Air Force veteran, was director of the Massena Soap Box Derby and was a production team leader with GM Powertrain, Massena.

Joins CPA firm

Fust Charles Chambers LLP, a certified public accounting firm in Syracuse, has hired Diana Missert as an audit associate.

Ms. Missert was a staff auditor with Deloitte & Touche for two years before relocating from Philadelphia. She earned a Master of Science degree in accounting from the Whitman School of ManageMissert ment at Syracuse University and has experience in the nonprofit, college and universities, manufacturing, retailing and financial services industries.

Ms. Missert is a 2003 graduate of Immaculate Heart Central High School, Watertown.

Changes at Enbridge St. Lawrence Gas

Enbridge St. Lawrence Gas, Massena, has announced two management changes.

Richard Campbell, president and general manager, will take on additional responsibilities as general manager of the Eastern Operations Region of Enbridge St. Lawrence Gas’ parent company, Enbridge Campbell Gas Distribution Inc. He will continue to be based in Massena. Enbridge Gas Distribution’s Eastern Operations Region provides natural gas

February 2011 | NNY Business

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COVER STORY TAXES 2011

Easing the tax burden

n Congress passed a new round of tax relief in 2010.

NNY tax experts tell us what it could mean for you.

I

By Ken Eysaman | NNY Business editor

IN DECEMBER, PRESIDENT Barack Obama signed into law the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010 (2010 Tax Relief Act). The new tax law extends for two years the Bush-era tax cuts, including extension of present, lower individual tax rates and capital gains, and dividend tax rates.

up the nation’s economy.

“This tax package affects almost every taxpayer. It was an $800 billion tax reform effort,” Mr. Bowie said. “Many people can start maximizing their tax savings now.”

Bowie cautioned filers who want to take advantage of many of the new incentives as the Internal Revenue Service is still catching up with the changes the president signed into law just two months ago.

Despite a flurry of criticism that a lame-duck Congress “Many people who can benefit from a lot of these changes won’t be able to file until mid-February,” he said. was scrambling to address tax reform, an issue that “It’s taken the IRS some time to update its forms.” many charge should take more careful crafting, the new John J. Gray Jr., a certified public tax law is the largest piece of federal accountant and partner in the Canton tax legislation in more than a decade. accounting firm Gray & Gray Certified It also includes a temporary estate tax Public Acountants, encouraged business compromise, extension of many popular business and individual tax incentives, Perhaps the biggest owners in positive cash situations to invest their infrastructure. The recent federal a two-year alternative minimum tax fix, deal about this whole in tax legislation, he said, greatly expands tax 100 percent bonus depreciation for busipackage is extension benefits on capital expenses. nesses, and a one-year 2-percent reduction in the employee’s share of the Social of the Bush tax cuts. “They really created opportunities for Security payroll tax. businesses to make good investments,” he — Jacob Navarra, certified public said.

The changes are by no means small. accountant and partner, Many tax professionals urged business To best understand the sweeping tax Stackel & Navarra owners to review their tax situation with law changes, NNY Business asked north an accountant to maximize their returns. country tax professionals for some easy “Perhaps the biggest deal about this whole package is to-understand highlights. The following is compiled from the extension of the Bush tax cuts,” said Jacob Navarra, a interviews with these professionals and from information sent to NNY Business. certified public accountant and partner with the Watertown firm Stackel & Navarra. “That by itself is huge.”

BONUS DEPRECIATION — Businesses can use bonus deprecia Thomas E. Bowie, a certified public accountant and part- tion to immediately write off a percentage of the cost of dener in the Watertown firm Sovie & Bowie, CPA, agreed preciable property. The new law provides 100 percent bonus that the 2010 tax changes were significant, despite coming depreciation for qualified investments made after Sept. 8, 2010, in an eleventh-hour effort on the part of Congress to shore and before Jan. 1, 2012. It also continues bonus depreciation, 14 |

NNY Business | February 2011

“

COVER STORY albeit at 50 percent, on property placed in service after Dec. 31, 2011, and before Jan. 1, 2013. There are special rules for certain longer-lived and transportation property. Additionally, certain taxpayers may claim refundable credits in lieu of bonus depreciation.

IRS CODE SECTION 179 EXPENSING — Along with bonus depreciation, the new law also provides for enhanced Code Sec. 179 expensing for 2012. Section 179 dollar and investment limits are presently at $500,000 and $2 million, respectively, for tax years beginning in 2010 and 2011. The new law provides for a $125,000 dollar limit (indexed for inflation) and a $500,000 investment limit (indexed for inflation) for tax years beginning in 2012 (but not after). Otherwise, those caps would have dropped to a $25,000/$200,000 level.

ESTATE AND GIFT TAXES — Beginning in 2011, the estate tax

had been scheduled to revert to its pre-2001 levels of a 55 percent tax rate and a $1 million exclusion. For 2010, estates were subject to no federal estate tax but heirs had to take inherited property under a modified carryover tax basis regime.

The new law revives the estate tax through 2012, but at a reduced maximum estate tax rate of 35 percent and a $5 million exclusion. The revived estate tax applies to estates of decedents dying in 2011 and 2012. However, for 2010, the new law gives estates the option to apply the estate tax at the 35 percent/$5 million level, with a stepped-up basis, or to elect no estate tax but with modified carryover basis. The law also allows “portability” between spouses of the maximum exclusion (for a combined $10 million benefit) and extends some other taxpayerfriendly provisions originally enacted in 2001.

JUSTIN SORENSEN | NNY BUSINESS

Beginning in 2011, the estate tax had been scheduled to revert to its pre-2001 levels of a 55 percent tax rate and a $1 million exclusion. Tax legislation signed into law in December delays the move for two years.

INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX RATES — Among the most valuable tax breaks for individuals in the new tax law is a two-year extension of individual income tax rate reductions. The new law retains the current 10 percent, 15 percent, 25 percent, 28 percent, 33 percent, and 35 percent individual tax rates for two years, through Dec. 31, 2012. If Congress had not passed this extension, the individual tax rates would have jumped significantly for all income levels.

The new law also extends the full repeal of the limitation on itemized deductions and the personal exemption phaseout for higher-income taxpayers, through Dec. 31, 2012.

CAPITAL GAINS/DIVIDENDS — The new law extends reduced capital gains and dividend tax rates for two years, through Dec. 31, 2012. For 2011 and 2012, individuals in the 10 percent and 15 percent rate brackets can continue to take advantage of a 0 percent capital gains and dividend tax rate.

Individuals in higher rate brackets will enjoy a maximum tax rate of 15 percent on capital gains and dividends, as opposed to a 20 percent rate on capital gains and ordinary income tax rates on dividends.

MARRIAGE PENALTY RELIEF — Married couples filing jointly will benefit from provisions designed to provide relief from the marriage penalty. For 2010, the standard deduction for a married couple filing a joint return is twice the single taxpayer’s amount.

The 2010 Tax Relief Act extends the increased standard deduction for married taxpayers for two years, through December 31,

JUSTIN SORENSEN | NNY BUSINESS

Workers will see more money in their checks through the end of this year as a result of a one-year 2 percent payroll tax cut for employees. The employee share of the OASDI portion of Social Security taxes was reduced from 6.2 percent to 4.2 percent, up to the taxable wage base of $106,800.

2012. The 2010 Tax Relief Act extends the expanded 15 percent rate bracket for married couples filing a joint return for two years, through Dec. 31, 2012.

PAYROLL TAX CUT — A payroll tax cut for employees is effective for calendar year 2011. The employee share of the OASDI portion of Social Security taxes is reduced from 6.2 percent to 4.2 percent, up to the taxable wage base of $106,800. Self-employed individuals will get an equivalent tax break, paying 10.4 percent on self-employment income up to the wage base (reduced

February 2011 | NNY Business

| 15

COVER STORY from the normal 12.4 percent rate). The payroll tax cut replaces the Making Work Pay credit that was in place for 2009 and 2010, but generally offers a much higher benefit. Unlike the Making Work Pay credit, the payroll tax cut does not exclude individuals based on their earnings. Thus the payroll tax cut can provide significantly higher benefits — a maximum payroll tax reduction of $2,136 on wages, compared to a maximum $800 Making Work Pay credit for married couples filing jointly and $400 for unmarried individuals.

ALTERNATIVE MINIMUM TAX PATCH — The law now provides an Alternative Minimum Tax “patch” for 2010 as well as 2011 at higher exemption amounts. The 2010 Tax Relief Act raises the exemption amounts for 2010 to $47,450 for individuals, $72,450 for married taxpayers filing joint returns, and $36,225 for married taxpayers filing separately. For 2011, the amounts are increased to $48,450 for individuals, $74,450 for married taxpayers filing jointly, and $37,225 for married taxpayers filing separately.

ENERGY TAX BREAKS — One of the most valuable energy incentives for businesses is the IRS Code Section 1603 cash grant in lieu of tax credits. This incentive encourages development of alternative energy sources, such as wind energy.

Other business energy incentives the new law extended include excise tax and other credits for alternative fuels and percentage depletion for oil and gas from marginal wells.

Individuals who made energy efficiency improvements to their homes in 2009 or 2010 can benefit from the IRS Code Section 25C energy tax credit, which rewards individuals who install energy efficient furnaces, add insulation, or make other similar improvements to reduce energy usage. The new law extends the credit through 2011 but reduces some of its benefits.

On the Web / Taxes New York State Department of Taxation and Finance www.tax.ny.gov Internal Revenue Service www.irs.gov Social Security Administration www.ssa.gov Small Business Administration www.sba.gov

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NNY Business | February 2011

COVER STORY HEALTH CARE DEDUCTIONS — Self-employed individuals can now deduct their health care premiums from their income tax and from self-employment tax.

Extended tax incentives for 2010-2011 Individuals

n $1,000 child tax credit n Enhanced earned income tax credit n Adoption credit with modifications n The enhanced dependent care credit n Deduction for certain mortgage insurance premiums

EDUCATION — The following popular education tax breaks were extended for two years, through Dec. 31, 2012: The American Opportunity Tax Credit (previously the Hope education credit); student loan interest deduction; exclusion for employer-provided educational assistance; Enhanced Coverdell education savings accounts; special rules for certain scholarships and the higher education tuition deduction (through 2011).

NO PERSONAL EXEMPTION PHASEOUT — Higher-income individuals and families will also benefit from the ability to claim an unreduced personal exemption. Before 2010, taxpayers with income over certain amounts were subject to phaseout of their personal exemption.

However, under the 2010 Tax Relief Act, personal exemptions are not reduced, for

The new law also extends retroactively some other valuable tax incentives for individuals that expired at the end of 2009. These incentives are extended for 2010 and 2011 and include: n State and local sales tax deduction n Teacher’s classroom expense deduction n Charitable contributions of IRA proceeds n Charitable contributions of appreciated property for conservation purposes

Businesses

n Research credit. Congress extended the research tax credit for two years, for 2010 and 2011 n 100 percent exclusion of gain from qualified small business stock n Transit benefits parity n Work Opportunity Tax Credit (with modifications) n New Markets Tax Credit (with modifications) n Differential wage credit n Brownfields remediation n Active financing exception/look-through treatment for CFCs n Tax incentives for empowerment zones n Special rules for charitable deductions by corporations and other businesses

Source: Sovie & Bowie, Certified Public Accountants, P.C.

an additional two years through 2012.

EXPANDED CHILD TAX CREDIT — Extends the $1,000 child tax credit for two years, through Dec. 31, 2012. The child tax credit can be claimed for each quali-

fying child under age 17 (at the close of the year) that the taxpayer can claim as a dependent. However, the amount of the credit is reduced as a taxpayer’s income increases.

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February 2011 | NNY Business

| 17

COVER STORY

Volunteers ease pain at tax time

n Preparers net $2m in refunds for clients in ’10

By NORAH MACHIA

G

NNY Business

isele C. Young, a volunteer tax preparer, recalled one of her most rewarding experiences with a client.

“A couple had brought old tax returns from three years prior and, after reviewing them, we were able to get them $18,000 in refunds because they had not taken all the exemptions and deductions they were entitled to take,” she said.

Mrs. Young, one of 14 trained volunteers in the Community Action Planning Council’s Free Tax Assistance Program, started with the program about five years ago after her husband retired from the United States Coast Guard.

“You have to go into a lot of details to make sure you give the proper exemptions,” said Mrs. Young, Ellisburg.

“Because we get to know our clients very well, they will talk to us. They know we respect their privacy.”

The CAPC program serves taxpayers who earn less than $49,000 a year. Most clients are from low- to moderate-income households and have turned to the program for help because they are unfamiliar with the tax codes or don’t have the money for professional tax preparation services.

But it’s not just taxpayers who benefit, Mrs. Young noted.

“The refunds that we help people obtain result in money being put back into the community,” she said.

It’s a program that supports the north country’s economy by providing people with more financial resources to spend at stores, restaurants and other businesses.

Last year, CAPC volunteers helped prepare 904 returns that resulted in $818,500 in total refunds and $388,724 in earned income credits for households in Jefferson County, according to Sherry Rafferty, CAPC tax program manager.

Those dollar figures are even larger when combined with numbers from a second tax assistance program in Jefferson County.

The Jefferson County Department of Social Services also provides free tax assistance for households that earn less than $49,000 annually.

Eight volunteers helped process tax returns through the agency’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program in 2010.

Clients didn’t have to be enrolled in a social services program to receive help.

Program volunteers processed 615 tax returns, resulting in more than $1.2 million in refunds and $448,399 in earned income tax credits, said Kimberly A. Leonard, managed-care specialist, Jefferson County DSS. Both Jefferson County tax assistance programs receive support and training through the Internal Revenue Service.

The tax preparation volunteers are certified by the IRS to prepare taxes and must complete training programs that cover federal and state tax preparations, as well as electronic filing.

The test for volunteers includes three sec-

To learn more n Community Action Planning Council offers several sites for tax assistance in Watertown, Adams and Carthage. Call 782-4900 to schedule an appointment. n The Jefferson County Department of Social Services provides assistance in both Watertown and Carthage. Some sites allow walkins, while others require appointments. Contact 785-3104 for more information. n In Lewis County, free tax assistance through the VITA program is offered at Lewis County Opportunities. Call 376-8202 for help. n St. Lawrence County residents can receive help from volunteers with the county’s AARP Chapter 2831. There are 20 volunteers who can meet with clients in Massena, Potsdam, Canton and Ogdensburg. Call program coordinator Philip W. St. Amand at 769-5736. n Those who request free tax preparation services should bring all income statements (including W-2, unemployment and 1099 forms), original Social Security cards for all people listed in the tax returns, photo identification and bank routing numbers for direct deposits.

tions of basic, intermediate and advanced questions, and they must pass with at least 80 percent in each section, Ms. Rafferty said.

The free tax assistance services, however, are not available to business owners, landlords or corporations.

The volunteer opportunity seemed like a natural one for Peter J. Benson, who started working with the CAPC program four years ago after hearing about it by wordof-mouth.

Mr. Benson, Natural Bridge, is retired from Jefferson County’s auditing department, where his job responsibilities included ensuring that purchases made by county officials from different vendors met all the required legal guidelines.

“I’ve been involved with numbers all my life,” Mr. Benson said.

After his retirement, he decided to join the CAPC program because it would enable him to “do something to help people out,” Mr. Benson said.

“I really like the fact that this is a program that doesn’t cost people a nickel,” he said. “We’re not out for anything other than to help them.” n NORAH MACHIA is a freelance writer who lives in Watertown. She is a 20-year veteran journalist who retired from the Watertown Daily Times in 2007 to work as a project manager with her husband, Tony, owner of Capital Construction and Development, 646 Coffeen St. Contact her at nemachia@yahoo.com.

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NNY Business | February 2011

F E AT U R E S

B&B brings dream, ‘richness’ to life n Honeyville Manor offers tranquil retreat for all occasions, guests

By ANDREA C. PEDRICK

F

NNY Business

or Marlene A. Norfolk, it began on a crisp fall day while riding on the back of her husband’s Harley Davidson Road King. It was nearly a year after her mother-in-law, Grace Burns Norfolk, died and that day would have been her 83rd birthday.

“We were on this sentimental journey and we stopped on the corner [of Fuller Road and Route 177] and I said to my husband: ‘Wouldn’t it be great to own a bed and breakfast,’” Mrs. Norfolk recalled. “We turned the corner and this beautiful property was for sale. Now we are sharing it.”

More than 10 years and thousands of hours of hard work later with her husband Frederick J., a retired Watertown City Police patrolman, Adams Center’s former Dutch Hill Day Care Center on Fuller Road is the sprawling Honeyville Manor Bed and Breakfast, billed as a serene retreat for rest and relaxation — anytime of the year.

“I always wanted a B&B so I could use the other side of my brain, the more creative side,” said Mrs. Norfolk, who in 2004 retired from a 36-year career that was topped off with her appointment to Watertown City Assessor in 1992 — the first woman to hold the job.

Nestled against the 111-acre Honeyville Wildlife Management Area, guests feel removed, but still close to home with access to hiking, fishing and bird-watching.

“The lodge is four miles from Café Mira in Adams. In the summer you can be in Sackets Harbor in 15 minutes,” Mrs. Norfolk said.

For far-from-home guests, the splendor of New York’s Adirondacks is just 90 minutes away.

A recent visit to the Adirondack-style lodge on a snowy day in January was the

JUSTIN SORENSEN | NNY BUSINESS

Honeyville Manor owners Frederick J. and Marlene A. Norfolk sit near the common area of their lodge on Fuller Road in Adams Center.

first impression needed to make an indelible impression.

The lodge sits on 120 acres of natural beauty. A pond spans the length of a football field, and a trail offers opportunities for walking or cross-country skiing.

An outdoor fireplace and sitting area along the trail aid in relaxation as guests observe nature, sip hot chocolate or enjoy snacks the owner provides, just one of Mrs. Norfolk’s many “personal touches.”

For those who prefer the indoors, the main lodge area features cozy seating near a wood-burning fireplace. Guests can curl up in an overstuffed chair with a book and take in postcard-perfect views.

In warmer months, guests can enjoy the scenery on one of the outdoor decks.

The lodge has a family-friendly feel.

Keeping with that theme, the party room is called Maddi G’s and named after Mrs. Norfolk’s granddaughter. The three bedrooms are named after her grandsons.

The Rowen, Frederick and Lincoln Loft each have a private bath. Mrs. Norfolk and her husband confided that they will welcome another grandchild in April, joking that they may need to add to the lodge to keep the tradition of naming rooms after grandchildren alive.

The lodge has been open for nearly six years. In that time, it has proven to be a

welcomed addition to the Adams area.

“Our community is very limited for overnight accommodations, so having a place such as the lodge is wonderful,” said Connie A. Elliott, a family friend and president of the South Jeff Chamber of Commerce. “It really has become quite a perfect little getaway winter or summer.”

Deborah M. Clark, Adams Center, agreed. Once a month, she and nine of her friends escape to the lodge for a miniscrapbooking retreat.

“The fireplace is warm and cozy. The blankets on the beds are snuggly. It doesn’t look like a hotel. It is our home away from home,” Mrs. Clark said. “It is a woodsy destination where no one can bother you. They make you feel you are the most important person – like you are family.”

Other times guests arrive to find chocolate-dipped strawberries and champagne welcoming them to their pampered retreat. Mrs. Norfolk strives to ensure guests leave with a lasting impression.

“You don’t get rich on a bed and breakfast, but our richness is new friends and the fulfillment of sharing this beautiful property,” Mrs. Norfolk said. n ANDREA PEDRICK is a freelance writer and former television reporter who lives in Dexter.

Contact her at abrped@twcny.rr.com.

February 2011 | NNY Business

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F E AT U R E S

Gray’s Flower Shop Floral Designers Lori Krupp, front, and Lorie Greene, put together arrangements. with Valentine’s Day fast approaching, florists across the north country are preparing for the busiest singlesale day of the year this month.

A

for run the roses JUSTIN SORENSEN | NNY BUSINESS

n NNY florists all in for biggest sales day of the year eeks before Valentine’s Day, north country florists begin preparing for the busiest, one-day rush of the year.

“Valentine’s Day is a nail-biter,” said Scott A. Gray, owner and president of Gray’s Flower Shop, with locations in Watertown, Clayton and Carthage. “It’s a very high-stress holiday but it’s still pretty fun for all the people who work here.”

The reasons are many, with everything

from weather, time and quantity adding to the high stress. But it’s something common among north country flower shops.

Hundreds of orders pour in days, even weeks before Feb. 14. Some shops hire extra help to ensure that all sweethearts get their bouquets.

“It’s the busiest day of the year because [all] deliveries have to be made that day,” said Kelly K. Keleher, owner of the Village Florist, Potsdam. “No one wants their flowers the day after Valentine’s Day.” Mr. Gray said that one day is typically 10 times as busy as a normal day.

“It’s a bit of a challenge to manage,”

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By SARAH HAASE

W NNY Business

NNY Business | February 2011

he said.

To help his shops, Mr. Gray calls for backup.

“We hire some seasonal people that can help with our sales and process orders.

Our delivery staff will be up exponentially.”

Gray’s fleet increases from four to 20 trucks that deliver nonstop for the day.

Suanne G. Hallett, owner of Halletts' Florist & Greenhouse Inc., Adams, said she hires about a half-dozen people for seasonal help.

“I’ll usually hire three extra drivers, extra girls to prepare the flowers and

F E AT U R E S a couple of extra designers,” Mrs. Hallett said. “I’ll also rent an additional van or two to help with deliveries.”

For Mrs. Keleher, planning for Cupid’s holiday adds even more stress.

“You spend a ton of money for all the supplies and then you hope to God you break even,” she said. “Flowers are so costly and the prices always change. I’m afraid to order too much because then you get stuck with the product. You can’t compare your numbers from year to year.

It’s always a guess.”

“

Find your flowers n The Village Florist, 167 Market St., Potsdam, 265-5212: 1/2 dozen roses, $30; 1 dozen roses, $60. Popular rose alternative: Arrangements with a lot of variety and color, including irises, tulips, snapdragons. n Halletts’ Florist & Greenhouse, 8883 Route 11, Adams, 232-4721: 1/2 dozen roses, $45; 1 dozen roses, $70. Popular rose alternative: A vase arrangement with mixed flowers and a single rose. n Gray’s Flowers, 1605 State St., Water-

town, 788-8441: 1/2 dozen roses, $44.50; 1 dozen roses, $79.50. Popular rose alternative: Stargazers or lilies in a keepsake container. n Sherwood Florist, 1314 Washington St., Watertown, 785-9996: 1/2 dozen roses, $31.99; 1 dozen roses, $87.99. Popular rose alternative: An arrangement with three carnations and a rose. n Emily’s Flower Shop, 17 Dodge Place, Gouverneur, 287-9677: 1/2 dozen roses, $40; 1 dozen roses, $69.95. Popular rose alternative: Basket arrangements with an assortment of flowers.

I love it. It’s one thing where everyone is doing something nice for someone else.

— Kelly K. Keleher, owner, Village Florist, Potsdam

Prices do rise in the winter because the colder months are not conducive to growing flowers. Even on the West Coast, Mr. Gray said.

But Mrs. Hallett and Mr. Gray said they can rely on past records to help plan.

“We keep really good records of what we’ve ordered and sold in past years,” she said. “We can pretty closely average what we are going to need.”

Mr. Gray said one thing shops can’t plan on is the weather.

“We sit on pins and needles,” he said.

“We can’t move product when it’s deep into negative numbers outside. The flowers would freeze in an instant. The freezing cold and the snow eat up a lot of time.”

Mr. Gray said drivers must make two trips to locations. One to make sure the recipient is home and a second to bring in the arrangement.

Despite the sleep-deprived days and stressful moments, Valentine’s Day makes a lot of people happy.

It’s a boom for suppliers and sellers and a little bit of happiness for the public.

Mrs. Keleher said the flower business is right for her.

“I love it. It’s the one thing where everyone is doing something nice for someone else,” she said. n SARAH HAASE is a staff writer for Johnson Newspapers. Contact her at shaase@wdt.net or 661-2371.

February 2011 | NNY Business

| 21

F E AT U R E S

Empty wine bottles uncork profits n Entrepreneurial

spirit alive and well in St. Lawrence County

Judy M. Wood makes cheese-cutting boards from wine bottles she melts in her kiln at her Gouverneur home. The process is called slumping.

B

By SUSAN MENDE NNY Business

oxes filled with empty wine bottles in Judy M. Wood’s basement aren’t headed for the family’s recycling bin. Their destination is Mrs. Wood’s ceramic kiln, where they’ll be heated to 2,000 degrees and melted down for their next life as cheese boards, wall hangings and other decorative items.

The colorful glass boards are selling swiftly at area craft shows and by word of mouth, creating a successful home-based business for Mrs. Wood and her husband, Richard A., both retired.

“They are definitely conversation pieces,” Mrs. Wood said. “Everyone wants to know how to do it and where I get the glass bottles. Our sales are going really well. I can’t complain.”

A table in the couple’s village home at 33 McKean St. displays a variety of cheese boards and other items for sale, varying in color and size and decorated with beads and metal wiring. Popular glass colors include green, blue, amber, clear and frosted. Key racks, wind chimes, tree ornaments and other novelties also can be made from the melted bottles.

During the St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce’s December craft show at Clarkson University, Potsdam, Mr. and Mrs. Wood sold about 100 of the cheese

JASON HUNTER | NNY BUSINESS

boards, which go for $15 each. They also sell packages for $20 that include the glass cheese board, a fabric wine bag, a spreader knife and locally made cheese.

“People think it’s a really cool gift,” Mrs. Wood said, noting that one customer bought 19 before Christmas. “They also like the idea that we’re recycling.”

Wine and liquor bottles are given to the couple by area restaurants, which in turn save on disposal costs. The couple’s major expense is paying for electricity to heat the kiln.

The couple plans to develop a website and cultivate a distribution relationship with retail outlets.

The Woods became interested in the idea about three years ago, when they saw cheese boards made from wine bottles while visiting an outdoor flea market in Connecticut.

“I just decided it was something that

was kind of cool that I could market a little bit,” Mrs. Wood said. “We’ve always made things — sewing, woodworking — all kinds of crafts.”

The idea made sense because they already owned a kiln that they purchased several years ago for their son, who was interested in pottery. Purchased new, Mrs. Wood said, the kiln would cost about $2,500.

The process of melting glass is called “slumping” and requires gradually increasing the temperature of the kiln over a span of three to four hours. The heat is raised every hour until it reaches 2,000 degrees.

The kiln is large enough to fit eight wine bottles at a time. After the melting is complete, it takes up to 10 hours for the glass to set and cool.

It took some practice to get the process running efficiently.

“We had some broken bottles, but that doesn’t happen too often anymore,” Mrs. Wood said. “You get some funky-looking ones. A lot of people don’t care if it’s not quite perfect.”

As long as sales continue, the Woods will keep collecting wine bottles and heating up their kiln.

“I’m always looking at bottles and wondering what would that look like if I melted it down,” Mrs. Wood said. n SUSAN MENDE is a staff writer for Johnson Newspapers in St. Lawrence County. Contact her at smende@ogd.com or 661-2519.

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NNY Business | February 2011

R E A L E S TAT E R O U N D U P

Tax changes likely to have impact

N

ews reports in the past few months have included several different real estate-related tax issues that are bound to impact homeowners as well as the real estate industry.

On the positive side is Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo’s call to cap property tax at 2 percent or the rate of inflation, whichever is lower. Realtors support his effort to make it a reality and will work to convince state legislators that they must pass tax cap legislation.

A property tax cap is only the first step to achieve meaningful tax relief. Other steps include meaningful tax cuts, decreases in unfunded local mandates, structural reforms to the tax code and government consolidation. Not only will these actions help homeowners who suffer under a crushing tax burden, these changes also will assist our economic recovery, as the Empire State will become more attractive to businesses.

It is an encouraging sign that Gov. Cuomo has announced his creation of a “Mandate Relief Redesign Team.”

Composed of representatives from private industry, education, labor and government, the team will review unfunded and underfunded mandates imposed by the state government on school districts, local governments and other local taxing districts. It will look for ways to reduce the costs of mandated programs, identify mandates that are ineffective and

outdated and determine how school districts and local governments can have greater ability to control expenses.

The other tax news has not been so positive, however.

Lance Evans There have been calls on the federal level to diminish or eliminate the federal mortgage interest deduction, or MID. In 2008, 38.5 million taxpayers claimed a deduction for mortgage inter-

in the United States would be 17 percent.

This would be a disaster for homeowners and the real estate industry.

The three levels of the Realtor organization (local, state and national) will continue to watch and monitor these two items as well as a host of other legislative initiatives that could have a positive or negative effect on the American dream of home ownership. n

n

n

The 2011 president of the New York State Association of Realtors, Nicholas Gigante, visited the tri-county area on Jan. 11 and 12. He spoke to the membership of the Jefferson-Lewis Board of Realtors, the Noon Rotary Club in Watertown and at the installation dinner of the St. Lawrence County Board of Realtors.

At the latter event, he installed the 2011 leadership. The association’s officers are Norene Randall, president, Jennifer Stevenson, vice president, Gail Abplanalp, treasurer, and Doug Hawkins, secretary. Directors are Debbie Gilson, William Lacy and Shirley Robinson. The immediate past president, Michael Kassian, and Korleen Spilman, the board’s state director, also sit on the board of directors.

If the mortgage interest and real estate tax deductions were eliminated, it wouldn’t be a one-year event. The present value of these lost savings could total $3.2 trillion. est. They were able to deduct a total of $470 billion from their taxable incomes for a total tax savings from the MID of $117 billion.

If the mortgage interest and real estate tax deductions were eliminated, the loss would not be a one-year event. Homeowners would lose out on these potential savings each and every year. The present value of these lost savings could total $3.2 trillion.

If the lost tax savings are fully capitalized into the price of houses, the average decline in the value of residential property

n LANCE M. EVANS is the executive officer of the Jefferson-Lewis Board of Realtors and the St. Lawrence County Board of Realtors. He has lived in the north country since 1985. Contact him at levans@nnymls.com. His column appears monthly in NNY Business.

CONTACT WLDC TODAY - GROW YOUR BUSINESS TOMORROW! THE WLDC EXISTS TO HELP move your strategic business plans forward.

Financing options and incentives through the WLDC:

■ Fixed - interest loans for real estate, machinery and equipment ■ Working Capitol financing ■ Leasehold improvement financing ■ Assists in securing primary financing through commercial banks

For help with expanding or relocating your business to the City of Watertown Contact: Donald W. Rutherford CEO

Watertown Local Development Corporation (WLDC) 82 Public Square Watertown, NY 13601

Phone: 315.786.3494 Fax: 315.786.3495 email: don@watertownldc.com

February 2011 | NNY Business

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20 QUESTIONS

Investing

I

n December, longtime Watertown investment firm the Morgia Group ended its relationship with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, opting to affiliate with Chicago-based HighTower Advisors. Managing director and partner Phillip John “P.J.” Banazek talks about one of his most difficult decisions.

1

NNYB: What drove you and your firm to make the decision to break away from Morgan Stanley Smith Barney?

BANAZEK: The process started about three years ago in the midst of the financial crisis when major banks were teetering on bankruptcy.

Our company, Smith Barney, was owned by Citigroup when its stock fell from 50 dollars a share to under a dollar. My senior most partner, Tony [C. Anthony “Tony” Morgia], came in to Mike [Michael A. Morgia] and me and was nervous about the company. He said we needed a plan.

We started to look around and discovered that outside what’s commonly referred to as the wire houses there are viable alternatives, especially for the type of business that we ran. Then Citigroup took somewhere in the neighborhood of $45 billion in government TARP [Trouble Asset Relief Program] money to shore up its balance sheet and capital. Smith Barney was subsequently sold by Citigroup, or large interest in it was sold, to Morgan Stanley, and we decided we were going to let the new Morgan Stanley Smith Barney show us how they did business.

After a year or so we decided the path Morgan Stanley Smith Barney was on wasn’t for us, that some alternatives out there felt better for us and for our business. Morgan Stanley is still a great place; with 18,000 advisers they wouldn’t have that if they weren’t good. Just for the way we ran our business, there were better options for us.

We really wanted to go independent, we wanted to make our own decisions and didn’t want to be dependant on a large corporate bureaucracy.

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NNY Business | February 2011

JUSTIN SORENSEN | NNY BUSINESS

for a new

financial future

n Morgia Group partner P.J. Banazek talks about his firm’s affiliation with Chicago’s HighTower The downside to being independent is that you need to have your own compliance folks; you need to get licensed and registered, which is a burdensome process. That’s where HighTower comes in. There are about five or six large aggregators similar to HighTower out there. They provide us a back office solution; manage compliance, licenses we need to operate and such.

2

NNYB: What was unique and appealing about HighTower versus other groups to affiliate with?

BANAZEK: HighTower is a registered investment adviser. They’re in the business of providing advice to the end client. They do that through groups like ours. So HighTower is not in the business of managing money. A lot of their advisers are in the business of managing money.

Our clients aren’t having folks in Chicago manage their assets; it’s all being done at a local level. HighTower is relatively new, about two and a half years old. They happened to be starting up about the same time the world was going through the financial crisis.

3

NNYB: Your decision made news on some of the financial newswires in Chicago, London and on Wall Street. Why was this such big deal that it was reported in Chicago and in England?

BANAZEK: There is a trend in the industry that’s relatively new. It used to be difficult for a larger team to leave a wire house. If a larger team were to leave a wire house they would typically have to go to another wire house or start

on their own. It used to be long periods of time where you’d hear a team leaving a wire house that wasn’t going to another wire house. Now it’s happening at a higher level of frequency. I think what’s driving that is the wire houses have gotten so big that if you’re a team that does business a certain way you don’t necessarily need all of the services that a wire house provides.

The structure can restrain you. They supervise 18,000 advisers. The best way to describe it is: Tony sat at one desk for all those years working for a company and, no matter how many times the name changed, he was always part of the surviving company and that company had a very strong entrepreneurial spirit. You decide how you want to run your business and we will build the structure around it. Morgan Stanley seems to want a little bit more control at the corporate level from what we were seeing.

4

NNYB: Some of the reports said you were managing a portfolio of close to $500 million. Is that common for a firm your size?

BANAZEK: In our business, for a team of advisers to manage that size of portfolio, that’s considered a large group of clientele. No doubt.

We’re different than the typical adviser team that manages $500 million. If you’re in Chicago or New York City or Silicon Valley, you might be able to manage $500 million in assets with less than 100 clients. You can’t do that in the north country. You have to provide services to a lot of different people. That’s how our team is built.

Tony started the business in 1967 and he’s

20 QUESTIONS always operated under the guise that if the client needs help, help that client. In the end it will work out for you. If you look at our structure, we will have three times the accounts than someone in New York City. At Morgan Stanley they were changing their structure, [almost] discouraging you from working with small accounts. A lot of our larger investors were our smaller investors for 30 years or more with Tony who had their money grow to larger pools of assets.

5

NNYB: A good share of your firm’s business over the years has been built on the backs of small, everyday investors, like schoolteachers and small business owners with $50,000 in investable assets. Were there any concerns related to caring for smaller investors that drove you to the decision to join HighTower?

BANAZEK: It didn’t drive the decision, but it was part of it. It was definitely a factor. The nice thing about this structure right now is they’re not dictating how we run our business. What they looked at when they decided to bring us on board was what type of business folks we are, how we run our business; do we run it organized, do we run it in a way that limits the risks to HighTower, are we a good risk? From that point, all they wanted to do was provide us the structure to run the business. If we need access to certain technology, they’d go out and find that technology and negotiate the best price.

6

NNYB: Was there a sense that it was too big for individual investors to feel comfortable with a large bureaucracy, that you lose a personal touch?

BANAZEK: It can lose the touch, but for a smaller adviser that structure is going to be good. Smith Barney or Morgan Stanley will vet for you all the investment ideas you have and provide you the things to sell. The key difference here is that it’s more go and sell. Tony built the business over 40 years; we have a strong idea of how we want to help our clients invest their money. We don’t necessarily need those sales ideas; we need to be able to do the things we’re doing and have an environment where it’s easy to do those things. I think that’s what HighTower provides. We have a way we run our business and we can limit what we pay for to the items we need to run that business.

7

NNYB: What is the difference between managing portfolios of individuals versus institutions in terms of customer service?

BANAZEK: What we’re already starting to see is some advantage from day to day in the way we manage money. For individual clients, nothing is going to change. We will still carry out the same philosophy that we’ve carried out for a number of years, the same research; all of those things will be identical. On the institutional side, we are seeing a little difference. When we were at Morgan Stanley, and any large brokerage house would have this same thing, your inventory of certain fixed-income products are limited to what they’re going to buy and put into inventory. Here we don’t have that; we have an agreement with our firm to work among 40 different fixed-income desks across Wall Street.

JUSTIN SORENSEN | NNY BUSINESS

Phillip John “P.J.” Banazek talks about his investment firm’s future in his office at 171 Clinton St.

The Phillip J. “P.J.” Banazek file AGE: 45 HOMETOWN: Syracuse EDUCATION: West Hill High School, Syracuse; bachelor of science in accounting, Le Moyne College, Syracuse; certified public accountant licensure PROFESSIONAL: 13 years as a CPA; joined the Morgia Group in 2000 PRESENT JOB: Managing director and partner.

FAMILY: Wife, Jen; children Joel, 13, Drew, 10, and Katie, 7

So when I’m looking for inventory for our institutional fixed-income client I’m shopping 40 desks.

I’m not limited to Morgan Stanley. That has been a huge advantage already. It’s not changing the philosophy of how we invest, it’s changing the product that we have access to.

8

NNYB: Your father-in-law started the business in 1967 and here you are 44 years later; that’s kind of a rare thing with the changes and evolution in the industry. What philosophy has enabled you to endure for so long?

BANAZEK: A lot of people would think it’s because you’re the best at picking investments.

That’s not the key. The key is helping make your clients make the right financial decisions.

Investment choice on a list of importance for our average client is probably number one, which I understand; but in the grand scheme, it’s probably number four or five. The key is starting by making sure you have the right client and identifying what you need to meet your goals. Then it’s keeping people on that plan. The other thing is to avoid the big mistakes. Every decade, and the last decade had two of them, has major, major mistakes. In the 1970s it was the oil and gas

partnership; they were hot investments at the time and ultimately people lost a lot of money. The tech bubble lost us a lot of money. Most recently, the real estate trend lost people a lot of money.

If you can avoid those mistakes with your investment process, over time you’re going to end up a lot further ahead. So it’s not just knowing what investments to buy, but knowing what investments to avoid, which I think is the key. Tony has a saying: “The fear of the downside has to be greater than the greed on the upside.” When you invest that way it does help you avoid some of the really bad down drafts.

9

NNYB: Your business is built on trust. As we continue to hear reports of people like Bernie Madoff, how do you build trust?

BANAZEK: Trust is our number one asset.

It’s important for any adviser to have that trust relationship. How do you do it? I think you have to always be honest with your clients. We’ve had a lot of conversations with clients where we tell them that they’re not on track to meet retirement goals or they’re making a poor decision to purchase something. Your clients might not necessarily want to hear that, but in the end they appreciate the honesty. I think that’s the way you have to be. We’ve lost clients to delivering bad news. But I can live a lot easier knowing I was honest with that person than I could knowing that I convinced them to invest in something and they ran out of money at age 72.

10

NNYB: It seems like anyone can hang a shingle nowadays and sell insurance and manage money. How do you compete with that?

BANAZEK: It’s the toughest thing to do, by far.

It’s not tough for us to separate from the pack, personally, because we’re not looking to sell things. We’re not looking to make short-term money. We’re looking to create a relationship with a person and have them be a client of ours for a very long time. That’s been the trend February 2011 | NNY Business

| 25

20 QUESTIONS we’ve had. We’ve been fortunate with that. The majority of our new business comes from the referral from other clients. There’s room for all of those people out there. A State Farm agent or the banks selling investments, all of those vehicles are good in a lot of cases because it gets people to do the things they need to do.

The key is that any individual who gets involved in buying an investment product doesn’t buy it because someone tells you to. It should be because you understand it, because you trust that person that’s offering it to you, that it’s the most appropriate thing for you. If anyone does that, no matter what they’re buying or investing, they will succeed.

11

NNYB: How has personal saving and investing changed?

BANAZEK: A hypothetical cutoff of 60 right now is that generation that has always been a good saving generation. They have been phenomenal savers. Under that it is a little bit more, not quite up to the same savers as that last age. We watched our parents grow up with great pensions and they didn’t have to be savers and they buy without saving a lot of money.

The generation under 60, they are way more dependent on their 401(k) plans. A lot of them didn’t realize it until too late in life that they need to be investing. That’s hurt them. Now it’s late in life and they’re trying to catch up but it’s almost

too late to catch up. The younger generation has started to recognize that they need to be savers.

If we buy that vehicle, it doesn’t matter where we buy it from: we have to ask ourselves, are we saving or are we making an investment to save that money, that’s the important thing. The earlier you start, the better.

12

NNYB: Are we seeing the beginning of sustainable economic recovery? Are things indeed turning around?

BANAZEK: I think the seeds are planted for economic recovery, just not at the pace the previous economic recoveries have had. There are a lot of issues out there that need to be dealt with in our country and abroad. There is a tremendous amount of debt on the balance sheet in governments, including the United States. At this point in time we need stimulus, we need the government to spend more than we take in to get the economy back up and running. At some point that has to reverse. Just from the corporate profit standpoint, profits have been good. In any environment with corporations making money it will lead to economic growth.

13

NNYB: Breaking up is hard to do. You left a close-knit, multigenerational office with the Morgia Group and the Couch Group. I’m sure there was a lot of camaraderie and it was a very emotional decision. What has gone well and

what has been challenging?

BANAZEK: It was a difficult decision to leave because they’re all my friends. The rules are such that we had to go about the way we left the way we went about it. We couldn’t legally do anything any differently. So I still think we have a good rapport with those folks. We’ve heard stories from different channels on our end how, when an adviser leaves or leaves a wire house like that, that there is a lot of fighting that goes on. We haven’t had that. There was a lot of camaraderie and we are friends, so we think nothing but the best of those folks. If I wasn’t in this business, there are people over there that I’d trust with my own personal money. There’s enough business in this town; it’s not like there’s a limited amount of business. It doesn’t make it any easier, but I do think they understood how that decision had to unfold. The only thing that’s been challenging is how fast our clients wanted to get their stuff done and move over. We had a guy come down here within 15 minutes of unlocking the door and fill out his paperwork.

An e-mail alert went out and he was reading his e-mail and he called Tony and he wanted to get down here. If there’s been a challenge, it’s been processing that paperwork; it’s a lot of paperwork. All of our systems are new to us, which is always challenging. You look at a computer screen a certain way, in Tony’s case for 40 years, and now it’s different.

14

NNYB: There appears to be a shortage of class A office space in the north country. Where do you think your firm will end up?

BANAZEK: It actually was a surprise to us, and we thought finding office space would be relatively easy and in fact it wasn’t; there was not a lot of very good space. Some of it has to do with the growth of the hospital. The hospital has acquired a lot of space and occupying that.

I think there is just a lack of proper inventory.

We are looking at every viable option. This option, we like the location and it’s a location we’re going to look very closely at. I don’t have an answer as to where we’re going to be. For now we’re focused on moving our clients over.

15

NNYB: Your family is very dedicated to Watertown. Why have you made the choice to invest in your community and stay in the north country?

BANAZEK: I think it’s a great place to live.

Both my wife and I have lived in New York City.

When we first got married we lived in Syracuse, which is another great city. When we made the decision to move up here it was not that difficult of a decision because of the lifestyle. There are so many things this community has to offer that makes it a great place to live. We’re a fairly outdoors family; we spend winters skiing and we spend summers on the lake. All of that is in close proximity. I think if you’re rooted in a community — I mean Tony has lived on the same corner since he was a baby — I think it’s important to do everything you can to help that community exist and continue to grow.

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NNY Business | February 2011

16

NNYB: Have you seen a flight of high-net-worth clients leaving New York state to go to lower-tax jurisdictions?

BANAZEK: We see it with our retirees. One, it’s the weather. We do have a lot of conversations with retirees who may temporarily go to Florida, for example, because of no income tax. They originally are going to go just for the winter, then they realize how much they save on the tax rate and they quickly change down to the South, which is unfortunate. We haven’t seen it so much with business clients; they’re here and they’re here for a reason. One may be because they’re doing all of their business here.

Or, they’re deeply rooted in the community; if they’re doing business elsewhere, their family and kids are here.

17

NNYB: This is a family business. What is it like to work with family?

BANAZEK: I personally think it’s a great experience. Let me go back: I spent 13 years as a CPA in a regional firm where virtually every client we had was a family business, a family that started a business and some that was just a husband and wife, some that had their kids involved. I saw success and values on all levels.

From families that got along great but couldn’t necessarily manage the business aspect and the business failed. Families that got along great and their business succeeded. To families that got along horrible but the business succeeded because they knew the business. And families that got along horribly and the business failed.

Managing a family business is always challenging. I’m fortunate enough to be married into a phenomenal family. We do a good job with separating our business life from our family life.

When we have business decisions to make that are difficult, we sit down and talk them through and we make good decisions. When we go over to my mother-in-law’s house every Sunday night to have dinner, the conversation never reverts back to those decisions. It’s always about what’s going on with the kids and it’s real, family conversations, which is great. We separate it very well. I get to work with a great family and I get to work with two great business partners and that’s just as important. They’re not just related, but they’re good partners to have.

20 QUESTIONS hearing so many people who were buying real estate and turning it around in a very short period of time and selling and making 15, 20 percent profits and in some cases more. That can only go on for so long. Eventually real estate prices come back into “normal,” which is usually based on affordability index, an index of what people can afford. During the real estate bubble it got away from the normal affordability index. What caught us off guard is how complicated the large financial institutions made the mortgage industry. By creating new instruments for individuals and hedge funds to invest in, that gave the appearance of being high-quality investments. In the end, we found out it was actually a low-quality investment it was all based on payments coming from real estate that was turning a profit or an investor or purchasers of a piece of real estate that couldn’t afford that real estate. There’s no doubt there was a real estate bubble; there was no doubt it caused a collapse. The average investor couldn’t see clearly by reading the generally available public information to determine the risks on the balance sheets of the large financial institutions.

There were a few, and a limited few, less than a handful, of very astute investors who made a lot of money on the collapse. When you can count those people on less than one hand, it gives you an indication of how complicated it

was and how limited real information necessary to make those decisions was.

19

NNYB: What is the most profound change you have seen in the 22-plus years your firm has been in business?

BANAZEK: It’s probably as simple as the rollout of the 401(k). When I first started in the business it was a new concept and now probably 95 percent of the people that invest — 95 percent is probably high but a huge number of people — are investing in their 401(k). They’re not saving and investing in stocks; otherwise they’re investing in the stock market simply through the 401K.

20

NNYB: What is the last book you read?

BANAZEK: “Again to Carthage” by John L. Parker Jr., the author of “Once a Runner.” I’m an avid runner; I’ve run a couple marathons, an ultra marathon. It’s a great book.

— Interview by Ken Eysaman. Edited for length.

 DO YOU KNOW someone in business who is a good candidate for our 20 Questions feature? E-mail NNY Business Editor Ken Eysaman at keysaman@wdt.net. 20 Questions appears monthly in NNY Business.

18

NNYB: What economic factors drove the collapse of 2008-2009? Was it a real estate bubble?

BANAZEK: Oh, yeah, there’s no doubt the real estate bubble was the straw. Actually, seeing the real estate bubble coming was the easy part. Going back to the tech bubble, you could pick any tech stock and in a couple weeks they were making 30, 40, 50 percent on your investment. You know you’re in a bubble, and those can go on for a period of time. And that’s what was happening with real estate. You were

February 2011 | NNY Business

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BRIEFCASE, from page 12 The second seminar will focus on IMB in relation to businesses that currently receive automation discounts for bar-coding mail. This seminar will be from 8:45 to 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 15, at the Taft Road post office in Syracuse.

CNYPCC meets monthly at the Syracuse main post office and provides seminars throughout the year to keep mailers abreast of changes and updates from the Postal Service, such as the IMB, which will be required in May. Those interested in attending workshops

or learning about how this group can help should contact Natalie Dolan, customer relations coordinator, USPS, at 452-3408.

South Jeff Chamber seeks Citizen of the Year nominations

ADAMS — The South Jefferson Chamber of Commerce seeks communityminded individuals for its 2011 Citizen of the Year award.

To nominate an individual, send their name and the reason for the nomination to the chamber at info@southjeffchamber.

org or mail to P.O. Box 167, 14 E. Main St., Adams, N.Y. 13605. Deadline for nominations is Thursday, March 31.

Civic duty is the primary criteria for being nominated. A group of two or three chamber board members will select the winner based on volunteer work done by an individual to promote the community in which they live. The winner will be honored at a flag raising ceremony on Arbor Day, have a tree planted in their name and will be asked to participate in area parades for the remainder of the year.

Contact the chamber, 232-4215, to learn more.

CASEY QUINLAN | JOHNSON NEWSPAPERS

Beaver River Family Health Center opens

BEAVER FALLS — The new Beaver River Family Health Center, located on Main Street, is now open to patients and offers comprehensive family health care.

A grand opening for the latest branch of Lewis County General Hospital was Jan. 22. Dr. Shirley Tuttle-Malone, Dr. Thomas Birk and Dr. David F. Rosner are seeing new and existing patients there. From left, Dr. David Rosner, Lewis County General Hospital CEO Eric Burch, New York State Sen. Joseph Griffo and Lewis County Legislators Phil Hathaway and Rick Lucas.

Traveler’s checks no longer available at NFCU

Northern Federal Credit Union, based in Watertown with branches in Adams, Gouverneur, Lowville and West Carthage, no longer will issue traveler’s checks, effective Tuesday, Feb 1.

Member feedback was used to determine that the use of traveler’s checks was becoming less convenient and that the demand for the checks had greatly reduced.

Northern Federal Credit Union continues to offer money orders and VISA gift cards that are more versatile and convenient.

Call the credit union, 1 (866) 310-6328.

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NNY Business | February 2011

E C O N O M I C A L LY S P E A K I N G

Globalization means big competition

T

here are roughly 88,000 municipalities in the United States, probably 1,000 times that number around the world. These communities all share one vital interest: the need for economic and community development. If communities are to continue to grow and prosper, revitalization through economic stimulus is essential.

Further, since economic engines — companies that employ our citizens — are clearly a limited and highly prized commodity, we are, by nature, in competition with all other communities that seek the same prize.

While the basic location identification process of any company remains largely unchanged over many years, the playing field has changed dramatically, bringing with it complexities unheard of 50 years ago. We now compete on the world stage and the competition is intense.

In the early days, when formal economic development activities began, it was understood that many companies were largely driven by their proximity to markets. Big cities flourished. While that underlying concept remains valid, the very definition of “market” has changed dramatically. Many north country companies, like their brethren throughout the U.S., now consider the world their market. That said, if they want to be closer to their market, it might require a move to Shanghai or Hong Kong, Dubai or Addis Ababa.

Our community now competes with hundreds and hundreds of other communities across the world for those precious jobs. In order to maintain what we have and to entice others to locate in our area, we must offer strong economic incentives.

When using the word incentives I’m not just referring to tax breaks, I’m talking about an overall environment that will enable a company to compete more effectively here than in any Don Alexander place else in the world.

Incentives should be more broadly defined as: n A skilled, educated and motivated workforce to help drive a company to the pinnacle of world-class activity. n An educational system dedicated to producing individuals with essential skill sets and fully prepared to adapt to everchanging skill requirements. n Modern infrastructure including highways, rail, fiber optics and telecommunications. n Abundant clean water and other natural attributes. n A development system designed to encourage economic activity, rather than impede it through overlapping and burdensome government. n Devices designed to reduce the overall startup and sustained costs for a company. n Manageable energy and health care costs and a host of other key elements that will be carefully evaluated and competitively analyzed by any company.

Incentives really speak to an overall competitive environment designed to

encourage investment and attract jobs. It’s a never-ending process of evolution composed not of one incentive but, in a broader sense, a community-wide condition that attracts development activity of all kinds.

Intellectual John Donne (1572-1631), pondering his religious beliefs, wrote that “no man is an island.” His message suggested that none of man’s activities are done in isolation.

His observation has never been more current than it is in today’s world of economic development. Those of us in our beloved north country must not only learn to stay in the game at the local level but on a global stage — not only to compete but to ultimately win. The prize is economic vitality.

When I played sports many years ago, I liked to think of myself as competitive.

Winning was the name of the game. As I age, I realize that communities are like that. We need to be competitive and we need to win if we are to survive.

The prize in this game is a refined and vibrant community that will attract our sons and daughters to return home to an economic environment where good jobs can be found and the quality of life for our families is exceptional.

In the most basic of terms, the goal in this competitive game is the American Dream. Batter up. n DONALD C. ALEXANDER is chief executive officer of the Jefferson County Industrial Development Agency, the Jefferson County Local Development Corp. and the Jefferson County Job Development Corp. He is a lifelong NNY resident and former broadcaster. Contact him at dcalexander@jcjdc.net. His column appears monthly in NNY Business.

“ Where People Are Worth More Than Money” 800 Commerce Park Dr. Ogdensburg, NY 13669 (315) 393-3530

333 State St. Ogdensburg, NY 13669 (315) 394-7532

11 Court St. Canton, NY 13617 (315) 379-9380

Become a St. Lawrence Federal Credit Union member today! To learn more about the advantages of becoming a member visit our website at www.stlawrfcu.com

February 2011 | NNY Business

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N O N P R O F I T S T O D AY

Giving goes beyond tax deductions

C

ommunity foundations serve three primary groups. If any one of those is not being properly cared for, our mission cannot be effectively fulfilled. In addition to the community and nonprofit organizations, we take very seriously the tools we provide to donors looking to support the work of those groups.

While studies show that tax benefits are not the primary motivator for giving, thoughtful giving can create a win-win situation for both the donor and the charitable organization.

A 2008 study reported that 85 percent of Americans have a more positive image of a company when it supports a cause they care about. At the same time, businesses often feel overwhelmed by the volume of requests they receive to support community projects and organizations. We occasionally receive inquiries from businesses or families who are contemplating establishing a private foundation to help provide a more uniform process for evaluating requests and determining the best route to most effectively benefit the community. It represents a more holistic approach to giving.

Because of the many considerations involved in establishing a foundation, most advisers suggest that a minimum $1 million investment is required to justify even contemplating the move. A recent study indicated that foundations with assets of $5 million to $9.9 million make the least efficient funding organizations. That’s because, in addition to the initial capital required, there are significant invest-

ments of time and financial resources both in the legal formation and subsequent administration of such an entity.

A private foundation must go through a Rande Richardson lengthy process to obtain taxexempt status, form a separate board, acquire director and officer liability insurance, pay excise taxes and concede to lower overall tax deductibility. The annual reporting requirements, which include detailed information regarding finances, specific grants made, investment fees paid and staff salaries, all become part of the public record. The organization must also be prepared to distribute at least 5 percent of the foundation’s net asset value each year to avoid penalty taxes.

Despite this, for some, a private foundation remains a viable option. However, as nonprofit, public charities, community foundations provide a similar tool to businesses without all of the time, expense and overall administrative hassle. Named donor advised funds provide a simple, convenient, powerful and flexible way for a company to demonstrate its local commitment and build a higher awareness of its efforts. They provide maximum tax advantages, while still maintaining a level of control and involvement similar to

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that of a private foundation. The foundation handles all of the administration and reporting requirements. While remaining actively involved and focused on the issues you care about most, grants are issued in the name of your business. Grants can also be made anonymously, if desired.

All of these same benefits are available to individuals or families, including those who have just recently sold a business and wish to have a portion of those proceeds qualify for maximum tax advantage.

With essentially no administrative overhead, this can mean more dollars being given. It enables donors to maintain a consistent or increased level of giving over time. Donor advised funds offer the flexibility to make grants at any future date in a fully informed way, not just under the pressure of the end of the tax or fiscal year.

The deduction occurs when gifts are made to the fund. The decision can then be made to pool the resources for future gifts when the business’s discretionary dollars may be fewer, or to concentrate on making larger gifts to support capital projects or to establish scholarship programs.

The bottom line is that you can focus on the thoughtful giving rather than the administration. You can take every charitable dollar further and respond to community needs in a better, more consistent way. It’s just good business.

n RANDE S. RICHARDSON is executive director of the Northern New York Community Foundation. He is a lifelong Northern New York resident and former funeral director. Contact him at rande@nnycf.org. His column appears monthly in NNY Business.

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NNY Business | February 2011

COMMERCE CORNER

Win with positive employee relations

M

ost of us are familiar with the old saying, “happy employees, happy customers.” As old as it might be, it still rings true and is a very important ingredient in business success.

I refer once again to the difficulties in the fast food industry; it really is a great training ground. The employee demographic is largely entry-level, unskilled labor, which ironically is the face of many national and regional companies. The challenge is: how do you take entry-level employees and make them the “cheerleaders” for your brand?

I don’t have any quick fixes; I can only tell you what has seemed to work, and not work, in my experiences over the past 25 or more years.

(I must first qualify this by saying that it has been the hard work of my operational business partners that has led to whatever degree of success we have enjoyed. I have been involved at the “big-picture” level, but it is people like my business partners and many others like you out there who fight this battle daily.)

This is not endemic to entry-level workers. I see the same in large-format operations because it is a human issue.

The single factor that seems to stand out with our five-store operation is recognizing that our employees are human and that our success is directly linked to their attitude and performance. This all sounds cliché, but what we try to do is engage them at many levels.

This includes, at significant cost to us,

closing our stores during the holidays and for a day in July to have an employee party where we recognize their service with a bonus and a new “goodie” (a beach towel, Peter Whitmore sweatshirt, etc., with our company logo, of course). We also have in-store reward programs that are directly tied to sales. It

We have an employee base that has had challenges and many other industries have dismissed them. I am so proud of many of the people I’ve worked with.

I am so fortunate with the staff at the chamber; as anyone in the nonprofit world can tell you, no one is getting rich. It really is the little things — maybe leaving the office early in bad weather or pitching in when someone else is down — ­ that matter. to employees. It is the belief that employees are part of something, a sense of belonging.

I imagine that gets more difficult as organizations get bigger. That’s all the more reason to have events, recognition and rewards that are consistent and engaging.

We still work hard every day to figure out a better way to keep employees motivated and empowered. It all matters; the cost of re-training high turnover far exceeds going the extra mile for your existing employees. No matter how challenging your life seems, remember your employees’ lives are just as challenging to them. Do the right thing, take time to listen and maybe next summer we’ll see you at our employee beach party.

The cost of re-training high turnover far exceeds going the extra mile for your existing employees. No matter how challenging your life seems, remember your employees’ lives are just as challenging to them. Take time to listen. makes the suggestive selling real. As sales increase so does the bonus. We listen to them and also have training at the store level. I am not saying we have any magic formula; it really is in the execution. It’s pretty difficult to ask them to maintain a standard if you aren’t willing to invest the time yourself. I will occasionally hand an employee a $10 bill when I see something extraordinary (it’s when they think I am not watching them, by the way). I find it isn’t so much the reward, but the acknowledgement that they have done something special that keeps them going.

n PETER S. WHITMORE is president and CEO of the Greater Watertown North Country Chamber of Commerce. He is a longtime small business owner and Jreck Subs franchisee who is also active with the Fort Drum chapter of the Association of the United States Army. Contact him at ceo@watertownny.com His column appears monthly in NNY Business.

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February 2011 | NNY Business

| 31

AGRI-BUSINESS

Calf care critical for farm success

H

ow does a farmer take care of a newborn dairy calf?

We assume that it is simple.

Give the calf milk and water, put her into a barn and she will take care of herself. On a dairy farm, it’s more involved than that. Taking care of calves is a job critical to the success of the farm and starts long before the calf is born.

So what does it really take to raise calves? Most cows are artificially inseminated instead of being bred directly with a bull. Artificial insemination is easier on the cow and much less dangerous for farm employees.

The herdsman or owner will work with a company that carries different lines of bull semen. They’ll select qualities that are “proven” from cows already produced from the bull, such as milk production, ease in calving and udder health. These decisions may make the difference between cows producing 50 pounds of milk a day and those producing 90.

Critically important to calf care is where they’ll be kept. Farms take special care of calves to keep them healthy. Holstein calves are very susceptible to lung problems. A cool, dry and well-ventilated environment is best for preventing respiratory illness.

You may notice little hutches that look like extra large dog pens when driving by some farms; those are calf pens.

They are one way to provide a safe and

healthy environment for calves. Many farms build special calf barns engineered to provide ventilation, with floors that drain away waste to keep the area dry Jay Matteson and clean.

By now, a few people may ask if the calf is separated from its mother at birth and why. Yes, the calf is separated from its mother. Farmers learned that it is better to provide a clean, dry environment than to let calves onto the main barn floor.

The calves are immediately fed the mother’s colostrum at birth, helping their immune systems. Then they are usually placed on milk replacer or on pasteurized milk from the farm. Raw milk from the cow’s udder may contain bacteria, until it is pasteurized, and the calf’s mouth may introduce bacteria to the mother’s udder.

In every instance, the farmer wants to maintain the high quality of the milk going into the storage tank and protect the health of the calf.

On some farms, cows reproduction cycles are timed so cows give birth on a certain day, allowing the farm to dedicate staff to monitor the cow’s birth process

and provide assistance, should she need it. Many farms have a maternity ward where the girls go to give birth.

Once born, calves are kept in their age groups so they begin identifying with other ladies their same age. They’ll usually be kept with these ladies during their life on the farm.

Impressed with the care of the calves yet? Even feeding calves is managed to guarantee the best health possible. When the temperature drops from 50 degrees into the twenties, a young calf may require one-third more energy to maintain bodyweight and core temperature.

A farmer wants calves to grow at an average of 1.8 pounds per day, reaching double their birth weight by weaning.

The farm herdsman alters the diet of the calf to protect its health as the weather changes.

Calf care goes beyond what we’ve discussed. It starts before the calf is born and continues until the day the cow leaves the farm. Good care is important for the calf, the farm and the consumer.

[Some information used in this column was obtained from the January 2011 issue of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Jefferson County’s “Ag News and Classifieds” publication.] n JAY M. MATTESON is agricultural coordinator for the Jefferson County Agricultural Development Corp. He is a lifelong Northern New York resident who lives in Lorraine. Contact him at coordinator@comefarmwithus.com. His column appears monthly in NNY Business.

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NNY Business | February 2011

BUSINESS TECH BYTES

Tech upgrades may hold tax savings

N

ow that we are past the whirlwind of holiday activities, I hope we have all been propelled with positive momentum into the next season: tax time. It’s a bean counter’s dream and not something an “IT geek” thinks too much about.

However, with cell phones, laptops, web hosting, Internet access and desktops, of course you want to deduct all of the technology-related expenses you incur; and your tax adviser will be in agreement, but only to a point.

Is 2011 a time for an IT investment, especially if you can get tax breaks? Did your business benefit from the latest upswing in the economy? Will your business needs necessitate a major investment in your information technology infrastructure?

Whether you bought computer equipment last year or you have budgeted for it this year, you can choose to depreciate the purchases over their useful life expectancy or take advantage of U.S. Tax Code Section 179.

Depending on your answer to that and other questions your tax adviser will pose, Section 179 may benefit your small- to medium-sized business. Section 179 allows you to write off the total expense of business equipment in a tax year, encouraging investment in eligible business equipment now rather than later.

Did you purchase new computer software last year? Do you need a software upgrade in 2011?

Your choices could lead to a Section 179 deduction, but your business will have to meet a few guidelines. Most of the off-theshelf software that is readily Jill Van Hoesen available to the general public will qualify, as long as you have not substantially modified the programming and do not hold an exclusive license.

Though Section 179 has been around for years, it received substantial enhancement last year with the passage of the Hiring Incentive to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act of 2010.

For the 2010 tax year, Section 179 is designed to make available the full amount of the purchase price of equipment procured and put into service during the 2010 calendar year.

How you choose to use the Section 179 deduction depends on many things: what do you expect your income to be? What are your expenses going to be moving forward?

If you use the Section 179 deduction, you will have less to deduct next year and in years after. The economy is showing encouraging signs, so you may want to lower your profits to minimize your tax

liability. Fortunately, Section 179 also benefitted from the Jobs Act of 2010 (HR 5279). Section 179 limits were raised substantially under HR 5279; couple that with the reinstatement of bonus depreciation, and this tax deduction could be very important to many business owners.

Section 179 can also provide many less apparent advantages, such as lowering your earned income, which could possibly increase your earned income credit. Section 179 will lower your adjusted gross income, allowing your business to qualify for other deductions that are based on adjusted gross income.

As with any tax deduction, there are limits to keep in mind when considering Section 179; most importantly, you can’t deduct more than the taxable income you will report.

IRS Form 4562 is used for the Section 179 deduction and may be used for the calendar tax year, Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, when the eligible property was purchased. Be sure to check with your tax adviser, as state tax laws will treat your purchases differently than Section 179 does.

Please remember the above tax information is brought to you by an “IT geek,” not a bean counter. Contact your tax adviser or visit www.irs.gov to learn more about Section 179 or other tax information. n JILL VAN HOESEN is the information security officer for Johnson Newspapers and a 25-year IT veteran. Contact her at jvanhoesen@ wdt.net. Her column appears monthly in NNY Business.

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SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS

Time to tune your customer service

I

’m sure every reader has bad customer service stories to share. I could probably write every column about them, but I hope that none of them come from your business.

It’s said that when someone has a good customer service experience they’ll tell another person or two, but when they have a bad one, they’ll tell 10 people or more. And now with the Internet, you can probably multiply that number by a hundred. Is there anything about that statement that doesn’t strike fear into the hearts of every business owner? If it doesn’t, it should. In today’s economy we can’t afford to turn off customers.

Here’s another axiom: “The customer is always right.” I know from when I owned my own business that it’s not always true. I also know that sometimes we have a customer who won’t be satisfied by anything we do. But that doesn’t give us the right to treat our customers poorly. It is not about us; it is all about the customer. That is the only reason a business can exist. And if we don’t take that to heart, our competitor is likely getting our (former) customers.

I propose three causes of poor customer service. One is that the business owner just doesn’t realize that every –– and I mean every –– facet of their business reflects their service relationship with their customers, thus creating a good shopping experience or a bad one. Good experience equals good word of mouth and the customer returns. Bad experience equals, well, you get the picture.

The second cause is that the business owner gets so caught up in the minutiae of running a business –– and yes, there is a lot of paperwork, employSarah O’Connell ee scheduling, inventory, etc.

–– that once again, they forget that the whole point of all this busy-ness is business — in other words, keeping the customer happy, satisfied and loyal.

The third cause –– and this is the one that really makes my blood boil –– is sheer arrogance. How many times have you walked out of a business feeling, “This guy really does not care –– not about me and not about the customer next to me.” The message I get from that kind of treatment is, “Fine, take your business elsewhere.” Or “I’m the only show in town, so you have to take whatever bad treatment or high prices or attitude I offer.”

Well, you know what? I know many people who now drive to Syracuse or order online because they won’t take that kind of treatment anymore and they tell

34 |

NNY Business | February 2011

their friends, coworkers, the teller at the bank, the cashier at the grocery store and so on.

Two other points: first, studies have shown that in many industries people will rate good customer service more important than price. So instead of trying to get more customers by lowering your prices, and thus cutting profits, we can invest a little time and energy to provide better customer service and make more money.

That sounds like a no-brainer to me.

The other point is that good customer service is the best tool the small business owner has to compete against much larger chain stores. We know our area, we know our people, we know other small business owners and we know our product. Now we just need to share all that knowledge in a timely and gracious manner with our customers and we’ll keep them coming back and telling everyone they know.

So this was the bad and the ugly. In my next column, I’m going to share good ways business owners can tune up their customer service policies for the New Year.

Good customer service is the the best tool the small business owner has to compete against much larger chain stores.

n SARAH O’CONNELL is a certified business advisor with the New York State Small Business Development Center at Jefferson Community College. She is a former small business owner and lifelong Northern New York resident. Contact her at soconnell@sunyjefferson.edu. Her column appears monthly in NNY Business.

SYRACUSE

 THURSDAY, FEB. 17

 TUESDAY, FEB. 15

Business After Hours, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Lucia’s Italian Restaurant, 11613 Route 11.

Sponsored by South Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, Lucia’s, Nana Rose, Widrick Construction and Green Thyme. Cash bar.

Cost: member, $5; non-member, $7.

CARTHAGE  SATURDAY, FEB. 12

WinterFest 2011, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Carthage Park, 2 Park Drive. Sponsored by Carthage Area Chamber of Commerce. Magic shows, balloon artist, fruit cake toss, sled races, contests and food. Call 493-3590.

FORT DRUM  SATURDAY, MARCH 26

Samaritan Auxiliary’s One Night, One Diamond event, 6:30 to 11:30 p.m., the Commons on Fort Drum. Cost: $150 per couple, includes hors d’oeuvres, dinner, drinks, dessert and music from Atlas. Chance to win a half-carat diamond from Waterbury Fine Jewelers. Information, tickets or sponsorship: Irene, iccrph@twcny.rr.com.

MALONE  SATURDAY, FEB. 12

Winter Carnival Masquerade Ball, 8 p.m. to midnight, Adirondack Room at Mo’s Pub and Grill, 3357 Route 11. Benefits Malone YMCA. Light show and music by Lucid. Cost: $30 per person, includes hors d’oeuvres and desserts.

OGDENSBURG  SATURDAY, FEB. 19 AND SUNDAY, FEB. 20

Winter Battle of Ogdensburg, 1:30 p.m. both days, Lighthouse Point, Route 68 and Commerce Street. War of 1812 re-enactors defend the city against a British invasion on the St. Lawrence River. Narrated event with cannon fire and troop drills.

Refreshments follow.

 TUESDAY, MARCH 1

Shanghai Circus, 7:45 p.m., Ogdensburg Free Academy, George Hall Auditorium, 1100 State St. Part of Ogdensburg Command Performance Series. Admission: $12 to $30. Tickets: 393-2625 or www.ILove Theatre.org.

POTSDAM  FRIDAY, FEB. 18

Bridget Hart, COO of Kinney Drugs, presentation, 1 to 2:30 p.m., Clarkson University Student Center. Sponsored by Clarkson Women in Business. Free and open to the public.

Business Customer Gateway seminar, 8:45 to 10 a.m., United States Post Office, Taft Road. Presented by CNY Postal Customer Council. Mailers using permits or planning to convert to Intelligent Mail Barcode will be introduced to the Business Customer Gateway, an online application through www.

USPS.com. Call Natalie Dolan, 452-3408.

 THURSDAY, FEB. 17

Human Resources Compliance for Small Businesses, 8 to 10 a.m., CenterState CEO headquarters, 572 S. Salina St. Kathy Barany of Strategic Management Solutions presents about state and federal HR regulations small businesses are required to comply with. Cost: member, $40; non-member, $50. Register at www.centerstateceo.com.

 TUESDAY, MARCH 15

Intelligent Mail Barcode seminar, 8:45 to 10 a.m., United States Post Office, Taft Road. Presented by CNY Postal Customer Council. For customers presently receiving automation discounts for barcoding your mail. Call Natalie Dolan, 452-3408.

 THURSDAY, MARCH 24

Centerstate CEO Business Show 2011, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., New York State Fairgrounds Toyota Exhibition Center. More than 300 exhibitors showcasing products and services to 7,000 attendees. Exhibitor booth registration and fees available at www.centerstateceo.com.

WATERTOWN  SATURDAYS, FEB. 12, FEB. 26 AND MARCH 12

Society for Human Resource Management Essentials of Human Resource Management Certificate Program, noon to 5 p.m., Jefferson Community College. Fifteen-hour introduction to human resources. Topics include employment law, selecting qualified employees, compensation, orientation and training and the employee performance process. Cost: $550. Register: JCC Continuing Education Dept., 786-2438.

 WEDNESDAY, FEB. 16

Business After Hours, 5 to 7 p.m., Jefferson Concrete, 22850 Murrock Circle. Register by noon Tuesday, Feb. 15, 788-4400 or www.watertownny.com. Cost: members $8; non-members, $12.

 THURSDAY, MARCH 3

2011 Job and Career Fair Expo, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Dulles State Office Building, Washington Street. Presented by Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by WWTI ABC 50, Stephens Media Group, Watertown Daily Times, WWNY 7 News/Fox 28, Time Warner Cable- Your News Now, Community Broadcasters and Newzjunky. com. Contact: the chamber, 788-4400 or events@watertownny.com.

 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23

Social Media – How Can I Use It to Promote My Business? 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Jefferson Community College. Learn what Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter can do for your business. Cost: $35. Register: JCC Continuing Education Dept., 786-2438.

 TUESDAY, MARCH 29

Selling To the Government Matchmaking Event, 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Jefferson Community College, 1220 Washington St. Small Business Development Center presents a matchmaking event for businesses to meet face-to-face with purchasing representatives from federal, state and local agencies, colleges, corporations and prime contractors. Cost: $25 if registered by Monday, March 14; after March 14, $35. Registration required by Thursday, March 24. Register: Robin or Ann, sbdc@sunyjefferson.edu or 782-9262.

 THURSDAY, MARCH 31

22nd Annual Local Government Conference, Jefferson Community College. Sponsored by Tug Hill Commission. Early bird registration, postmarked by Wednesday, March 9, $50; postmarked by Wednesday, March 16, $75; received after March 16, $100. Register: 785-2380.

OLD FORGE  SATURDAY, MARCH 12, AND SUNDAY, MARCH 13 SnoFest 2011, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, North Street Recreation Center. Ski-Doo, Yamaha, Polaris and Arctic Cat premiere their 2012 models and gear with demo rides, weather permitting. Free admission. Contact: Old Forge Visitor’s Center, 369-6983, or www. snofestUSA.com.

DOWN THE ROAD  SATURDAY, APRIL 30

Arbor Day Festival, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., South Jefferson High School, 11060 Route 11. Sponsored by South Jefferson Chamber of Commerce. Vendors, crafts, food, educational information. 232-4215.

 FRIDAY, APRIL 1 AND SATURDAY, APRIL 2

46th Annual Antique Show and Sale, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dulles State Office Building, Washington Street. Benefits the Credo Community Center. Antiques and collectibles. Coffee, tea and light desserts available Friday; food available for purchase on Saturday. Free parking in the parking garage. Accepting new vendors. Contact Sherry M. Wilson, 782-8356. Admission, good for both days: $4.

 GOT A BUSINESS EVENT or calendar item? E-mail editor Ken Eysaman at keysaman@wdt.net. Submission deadline is the 10th of each month for the following month’s issue.

COMMUNITY / BUSINESS EVENTS CALENDAR

ADAMS

February 2011 | NNY Business

| 35

CHAMBER / WEB DIRECTORY

NNY CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE  ALEXANDRIA BAY

7 Market St., Alexandria Bay, NY 13607; 482-9531, www.visitalexbay.org

 BOONVILLE

122 Main St., P.O. Box 163, Boonville NY 13309; 942-6823, www.boonville chamber.com

 CAPE VINCENT

175 N. James St., P.O. Box 482, Cape Vincent, NY 13618; 654-2481, www. capevincent.org

 CARTHAGE AREA

120 S. Mechanic St., Carthage, NY 13619; 493-3590, www.carthageny.com

 CENTERSTATE CEO

572 S. Salina St., Syracuse, NY 13202; 470-1800, www.centerstateceo.com

 CHAUMONT-THREE MILE BAY

686-3771, www.1000islands-clayton.com

393-3620, www.ogdensburgny.com

 GREATER WATERTOWNNORTH COUNTRY

 OLD FORGE

1241 Coffeen St., Watertown, NY 13601; 788-4400, www.watertownny.com

 GOUVERNEUR

214 E. Main St., Gouverneur, NY 13642; 287-0331, www.gouverneurchamber.net

 HENDERSON HARBOR

P.O. Box 468, Henderson Harbor, NY 13651; 938-5568, www.henderson harborny.com

 LEWIS COUNTY

7559 S. State St., Lowville, NY 13367; 376-2213, www.lewiscountychamber.org

 MASSENA

50 Main St., Massena, NY 13662; 7693525, www.massenachamber.com

 MALONE

3140 Route 28, P.O. Box 68, Old Forge, NY 13420; 369-6983, www.oldforgeny.com

 POTSDAM

1 Market St. Potsdam, NY 13676; 2749000, www.potsdamchamber.com

 PULASKI

3044 Route 13, P.O. Box 34, Pulaski, NY 13142; 298-2213, www.pulaskiny chamber.com

 SACKETS HARBOR

304 W. Main St., P.O. Box 17, Sackets Harbor, NY 13685; 646-1700, www. sacketsharborchamberofcommerce.com

 SOUTH JEFFERSON

14 E. Church St., Adams, NY 13605; 232-4215, www.southjeffchamber.org

 ST. LAWRENCE

101 Main St., 1st Floor, Canton, NY 13617; 386-4000, www.northcountryguide.com

P.O. Box 24, Three Mile Bay, NY 13693; 649-3404, www.chaumontchamber.com

497 East Main St., Malone, NY 12953; 1(518) 483-3760, www.visitmalone.com

 CLAYTON

 OGDENSBURG

330 Ford St. #8, Ogdensburg, NY 13669;

907 Route 11 C, P.O. Box 297, Brasher Falls, NY 13613; 389-4800, www. tritownchamberofcommerce.com

BIZ WEB DIRECTORY

JEFFERSON COUNTY JOB DEVELOPMENT CORP.

ST. LAWRENCE RIVER VALLEY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY

PROCUREMENT TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE CENTER

U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

517 Riverside Drive, Clayton, NY 13624;

CITEC MANUFACTURING & TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

www.jcjdc.net

CLARKSON UNIVERSITY CENTER FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP

www.northcountryptac.com

www.citec.org

www.helpmysmallbusinesstoday.com www.facebook.com/CUEntrepCtr www.twitter.com/CUEntrepCtr

DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF THE NORTH COUNTRY www.danc.org

LEWIS COUNTY INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AGENCY

 TRI-TOWN

www.slrvra.com

SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER AT SUNY JEFFERSON

Syracuse district office: www.sba.gov www.facebook.com/SBAAtlantic www.twitter.com/SBAAtlantic

www.watertown.nyssbdc.org www.facebook.com/WatertownSBDC www.twitter.com/nys_sbdc

WATERTOWN LOCAL DEVELOPMENT CORP.

ST. LAWRENCE COUNTY IDA / LOCAL DEVELOPMENT CORP.

WATERTOWN SCORE

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NNY Business | February 2011

BUSINESS SCENE / COMMUNITY 19th Annual Bridal Show

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

Top, from left, Suanne G. Hallett, owner and florist, Kim R. Graves and Anne C. Varno of Hallett’s Florist and Greenhouse, Adams.

Bottom, from left, Julie L. Butler, Barbara J. Yerdon and Michelle R. Parks LaBrake of Mary Kay Cosmetics, Watertown.

Corrections

n A photo caption in January’s Business Scene section on page 31 incorrectly transposed Jumana McManus and Joan Gerni. n A photo caption in January’s Business Scene section on page 31 incorrectly spelled Kris Dimmick’s name. n NNY Business strives to deliver an accurate magazine. If you spot an error of fact, contact Editor Ken Eysaman at keysaman@wdt.net or 661-2399.

Top, from left, Melissa R. Aulet-Ortiz, account executive with Tunes 92.5 FM, Michele Scanlin, owner of Sposa Bella formal wear, Canton, and Alex Hansen, account executive with Tunes 92.5 FM. Mrs. Aulet-Ortiz and Ms. Hansen modeled gowns from Sposa Bella for the 19th Annual Bridal Show. Bottom, from left, Peggy M. Kelley, owner and cake designer, Laura L. Kimple, Amber M. Netto and Candace J. Kimple of Peggy’s Sweet Creations, West Carthage.

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February 2011 | NNY Business

| 37

BUSINESS SCENE / COMMUNITY 19th Annual Bridal Show

AUSA / FDRLO welcome reception

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

Top, from left, Judith Mead of Far View Images, Laura J. Miranda, Stella V. McCabe and Kristen E. Ingison. Mrs. Mead was the event producer for the 19th Annual Bridal Show, which had 172 registered brides, the show’s second-highest number since it began in 1992. Mrs. Mead estimated close to 750 people attended the event on Sunday, Jan. 9, at the Dulles State Office Building on Washington Street. Bottom, from left, Marybeth Longo, Nicole T. Samolis and Cindy H. Ormond of The Wedding Studio, Syracuse.

38 |

NNY Business | February 2011

Top, from left, Fort Drum Senior Rear Commander Brig. Gen. Harry E. Miller Jr., and Deborah G. Neher, NNY-Fort Drum Association of the United States Army board member and Hampton Inn general manager.

About 150 members of the north country community welcomed Gen. Miller and Fort Drum Garrison Commander Col. Noel T. Nicolle in a Jan. 20 reception at the Best Western Carriage House Inn sponsored by NNY Fort Drum AUSA and the Fort Drum Regional Liaison Organization. Bottom, from left, Michelle S. Simerly, Northern Federal Credit Union regional manager, Maria L. Riddle, Fort Drum, Trese A. Bannister, Fort Drum, and Nellie J. Mathous, Northern Federal Credit Union marketing business development manager.

BUSINESS SCENE / AUSA-FDRLO AUSA / FDRLO welcome reception

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

Top, from left, Jennifer K. Frank, an attorney with Menter, Rudin & Trivelpiece Counselors At Law, Watertown, Julie Terry, wife of 10th Mountain Division Commander Maj. Gen. James L. Terry, 3rd Brigade Combat Team 10th Mountain Commander Col. Patrick D. Frank. Bottom, from left, World War II Marine Corps veteran and Fort Drum Regional Liaison Organization board member Alvan A. Taylor, Clayton, his wife, Patricia H.C., and Brig. Gen. Harry E. Miller Jr., Fort Drum Senior Rear Commander.

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

Top, from left, Fort Drum Garrison Commander Col. Noel T. Nicolle and his wife, Tamara M. Bottom, from left, Fort Drum Garricon Command Sgt. Maj. John F. McNeirney, hid wife, Violet C., and Mary M. Parry, a 42-year member of the United Service Organization, longtime north country volunteer and Fort Drum advocate.

February 2011 | NNY Business

| 39

BUSINESS SCENE / AFTER HOURS Lewis County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

Top, from left, Jennifer A. Meny and her husband, Dr. Howard T., of Lewis County General Hospital. Bottom, from left, Linda A. Yousey, of Relationship Advocates, her husband, Tom J. Yousey and Carmen A. Sweet of the Butterscotch House Bed & Breakfast, Lowville. Dr. and Mrs. Meny hosted the Jan. 20 Lewis County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours at their new home in Watson, which was built by Boonville-based Adirondack Builders.

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

Top, from left, Erin E. Williams of Griffith Energy, Lowville, and Joy M. Burker of Key Bank, Lowville. Bottom, from left, Dean E. Case of Boonville-based Adirondack Builders and his wife, Susie J.

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NNY Business | February 2011

BUSINESS SCENE / AFTER HOURS Comfort Inn & Suites Business After Hours

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

Top, from left, Carol L. Kolceski, senior account executive with Village Office Supply, Syracuse, and Kelly E. Reinhardt, director of business development and community relations for Bernier, Carr & Associates, Watertown. Bottom, from left, Claire E. Seiferth, program manager for the Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC), Watertown, and Stephen M. Barr, also of PTAC. Comfort Inn & Suites hosted the Jan. 26 Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours.

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

Top, from left, David McCaw, home lending manager for Northern Federal Credit Union (NFCU), Brian Caird, people development manager for NFCU, and Sara L. Bulger, a home lending professional for NFCU. Bottom, from left, Katie M. Skinner, marketing and advertising manager for the Mustard Seed Natural Food Store, Watertown, and Lori S. Randazzo of Coyote Moon Vinyards, Clayton.

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February 2011 | NNY Business

| 41

DINING GUIDE Cajun Cafe & Grill Salmon Run Mall, Watertown (315) 779-8169

Fiesta Mexicana 566 State St., Watertown (315) 779-7577

Ives Hill Restaurant 435 Flower Ave. W., Watertown (315) 775-4837

Cam’s Pizzeria 25 Public Square, Watertown (315) 779-8900

Fireside at Partridge Berry Inn 26561 State Route 3, Watertown (315) 782-8401

Jean’s Beans 259 Eastern Blvd., Watertown (315) 788-7460

Candlelight Restaurant and Lounge 380 S. Railroad St., Parish (315) 625-4005

Flaming Wok 431 E. Hoard St., Watertown (315) 788-9928

Joey’s at the Thousand Island Club 21952 Club Road, Alexandria Bay (315) 482-9999

Cavallario’s Cucina 133 N. Massey St., Watertown (315) 788-9744

Fung Hing Chinese 225 State St., Watertown (315) 785-9689

Johnny D’s 1 Public Square, Watertown (315) 782-6108

Cherry Tree Inn 8541 State Route 3, Henderson (315) 938-7281

Gary’s Restaurant 5424 Shady Ave., Lowville (315) 376-6612

Johnny D’s Bistro 108 108 Court St., Watertown (315) 755-2333

China City 1125 Arsenal St. Suite 2, Watertown (315) 788-8289

G&F Italian Pizza and Restaurant 2972 E. Main St., Parish (315) 625-7177

Karen & Jasper’s Bar & Bistro 1322 Washington St. Plaza, Watertown (315) 788-4110

Church Street Diner 107 Church St., Carthage (315) 493-0997

Gold Star Deli 343 Arsenal St., Watertown (315) 782-6155

King Star Food Oriental 22265 U.S. Route 11, Watertown (315) 786-0246

Coleman’s Corner 849 Lawrence St., Watertown (315) 782-6888

Goodfellos 202 W. Main St., Sackets Harbor (315) 646-3463

Korean Grill 525 W. Main St., Watertown (315) 681-4226

Cowlick 25649 State Route 3, Watertown (315) 785-9948

Gram’s Diner 13 Main St., Adams (315) 232-4881

Lake Ontario Playhouse 103 W. Main St., Sackets Harbor (315) 646-2305

Crossroads Diner 22474 U.S. Route 11, Watertown (315) 782-9591

Great Wall Chinese 300 Arsenal St., Watertown (315) 788-7668

Leanna’s at the Manor Store Route 11, Pierrepont Manor (315) 465-4400

Crystal Restaurant 87 Public Square, Watertown (315) 782-9938

Harby’s Hots Outer Washington Street, Watertown (315) 788-2250

Limerick Hotel 16331 State Route 12E, Limerick (315) 639-6804

Daily Buffet (Chinese) 1283 Arsenal St. Stop 8, Watertown (315) 786-8598

Herrings Inn 35802 State Route 3, Carthage (315) 493-9829

Lloyd’s of Lowville 7405 S. State St., Lowville (315) 376-7037

Boondocks Restaurant and Bar 3950 State Route 12, Lyons Falls (315) 348-4040

Dano’s Pizzeria and Restaurant 24411 State Route 971V, Felts Mills (315) 773-3266

Highland Meadows Country Club 24201 State Route 342, Watertown (315) 785-0108

Lucia’s Italian Restaurant 11613 U.S. Route 11, Adams (315) 232-2223

Brookside Diner 1873 State St., Watertown (315) 782-9824

Depot Café 13449 Depot St., Adams Center (315) 583-6555

Home Deli Pizza & Subs 305 W. Main St., Watertown (315) 782-6340

Maggie’s on the River 500 Newell St., Watertown (315) 405-4239

Brownville Diner 114 W. Main St., Brownville (315) 786-8554

Erin’s Isle Restaurant 928 State Route 11C, Brasher Falls (315) 389-4100

Hot Diggity Dogs Salmon Run Mall, Watertown (315) 788-4844

Mariano’s Pizza 981 Waterman Drive, Watertown (315) 788-8088

Café Mira 14 Main St., Adams (315) 232-4470

Fairground Inn 852 Coffeen St., Watertown (315) 782-7335

India Palace 1196 Arsenal St., Watertown (315) 788-8457

McCarthy’s Restaurant 5821 U.S. Route 11, Canton (315) 386-2564

n A directory of independent coffee houses, bars and restaurants.

Full-service restaurants 1025 Ruyi Japanese Steak House 1025 Arsenal St., Watertown (315) 405-4501 1844 House “An American Bistro” 6885 U.S. Route 11, Potsdam (315) 268-1844 2000 Chinese Restaurant 22070 U.S. Route 11, Watertown (315) 788-2000 Adams Country Club 10700 U.S. Route 11, Adams (315) 232-4842 A & J’s Diner 455 Court St., Watertown (315) 777-4811 Andy’s Caribbean Cuisine 302 Court St., Watertown (315) 777-8658 Apollo Restaurant 1283 Arsenal St., Watertown (315) 788-3569 Art’s Jug 820 Huntington St., Watertown (315) 782-9764 Bernardo’s Pizzeria 702 Coffeen St., Watertown (315) 782-9500 B J’s Grill 610 Mill St., Watertown (315) 782-8126 Black River Valley Club 131 Washington St., Watertown (315) 788-2300

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NNY Business | February 2011

Ph. 315-755-2333 Fax. 315-755-2739

Live Music Tuesday to Saturday!!

DINING GUIDE Midway Ice Cream 891 Coffeen St., Watertown (315) 405-4996 Mo’s Place 345 Factory St., Watertown (315) 782-5503 Morgia’s Pasta 22560 Fisher Road, Watertown (315) 788-3509 Mr. Sub Sandwich Shop Public Square & Mill St., Watertown (315) 782-1760 NuPier 13212 State Route 3, Sackets Harbor (315) 646-3312 Original Italian Pizza 222 N. Massey St., Watertown (315) 786-0000 Papa Tino’s Pizzeria 716 Mill St., Watertown (315) 782-7272 Pete’s Restaurant 111 Breen Ave., Watertown (315) 782-6640 Pizza Shack 12699 State Route 3, Sackets Harbor (315) 646-2267 Rainbow Shores Restaurant 186 Rainbow Shores Road, Pulaski (315) 298-5110 Rajit 262 Arsenal St., Watertown (315) 782-5513 Ramada Inn 21000 State Route 3, Watertown (315) 788-0700 Riccardo’s Market & Deli 710 Holcomb St., Watertown (315) 782-7810 Riverhouse 4818 Salina St., Pulaski (315)509-4281 Roberts Family Pizzeria 839 State St., Watertown (315) 786-2006 Roma Restaurant 19 Bridge St., Carthage (315) 493-0616 Romalato’s Gourmet Deli 450 Gaffney Drive, Watertown (315) 681-6653

Read the reviews

 Log on to www.watertowndaily times.com to read restaurant reviews

by Watertown Daily Times restaurant critic Walter Siebel.

Get on the list

 Call NNY Business advertising specialist Clarissa Collins at (315) 661-2305 or e-mail ccollins@wdt.net to have your restaurant or bar listed in our monthly dining guide today.

Shorty’s Place 1280 Coffeen St., Watertown (315) 782-7878 Shuler’s Steak & Seafood 802 Mill St., Watertown (315) 782-1429 Soluri’s Pizza 526 Factory St., Watertown (315) 782-2888 Sonora’s Authentic Mexican 300 Washington St., Watertown (315) 782-8000 Stonefence Resort 7191 State Route 37, Ogdensburg (315) 393-1545 Stone Jug Pizzeria 104 Bartlett Road, Sackets Harbor (315) 646-1008 Suk Hui Hi’s Korean 1301 State St., Watertown (315) 785-9740 Super Wok Chinese Restaurant 20991 State Route 3, Watertown (315) 788-5389 Teriyaki Experience 21852 Towne Center Drive, Watertown (315) 785-9254 Thailand Thai Restaurant 1857 State St., Watertown (315) 788-6688 The Place 1612 Ford St., Ogdensburg 315-393-3080 Tico’s Mex Mex Grill 65 Public Square, Watertown (315) 836-4778

Tilted Kilt 1050 Arsenal St., Watertown (315) 782-5458

Clueless 545 Arsenal St., Watertown (315) 782-9006

Tin Pan Galley 110 W. Main St., Sackets Harbor (315) 646-3812

Crazy Legs Saloon 536 Arsenal St., Watertown (315) 777-8333

United China Restaurant 144 Eastern Blvd., Watertown (315) 782-4432

Edge of the River Pub 519 W. Main St., Watertown (315) 788-0695

Violi’s Restaurant 209 Center St., Massena (315) 764-0329

Fat Boys 743 Huntington St., Watertown (315) 779-0087

Village Inn 8208 Main St., Harrisville (315) 543-9382

Fort Pearl Inc. 557 Pearl St., Watertown (315) 786-3333

VV’s Mexican Kitchen Noble Street, Evans Mills (315) 629-4652

Hitchin’ Post Tavern 404 Court St., Watertown (315) 782-9656

Walsh’s Pub & Grill 101 E. Main St., Brownville (315) 782-6065

Hotel Adams 4 W. Church St., Adams (315) 232-3000

Watertown Golf Club Grill and Bar 1 Thompson Park, Watertown (315) 782-5606

Joe’s Tavern 548 Coffeen St., Watertown (315) 782-9709

Willowbrook Golf Club 25075 State Route 37, Watertown (315) 782-8192

Kicker’s Lounge 498 Factory St., Watertown (315) 785-9392

Wing Wagon 71 Public Square, Watertown (315) 836-3205

Mick’s Place 204 Factory St., Watertown (315) 786-1992

Coffee Houses Brew Ha Ha 468 Coffeen St., Watertown (315) 788-1175

Paddock Club 5 Paddock Arcade, Watertown (315) 786-6633

Chrissy Beanz Bakery 105 W. Main St., Sackets Harbor (315) 646-2330

Pappy’s Bowlmor Lanes 227 E. Orvis St., Massena (315) 769-9877

Coffee Shop Carbone Plaza, Watertown (315) 782-0450

Pewter Mug 1120 Gill St., Watertown (315) 782-0200

Danny’s Coffee 21181 Salmon Run Mall, Watertown (315) 782-7057

Seth’s Pub 558 State St., Watertown (315) 681-6645

Paddock Coffee House 4 Paddock Arcade, Watertown (315) 836-1508

Bars / drinking establishments

Shootie’s Bar 504 Pearl St., Watertown (315) 782-9724

Artie’s Tavern 329 High St., Watertown (315) 782-9616

Time Warp Tavern 302 State St., Watertown (315) 782-9784

Ryan’s Lookout 9290 State Route 3, Henderson (315) 938-5151 Sackets Harbor Brew Pub 212 W. Main St., Sackets Harbor (315) 646-2739 Sandy’s Luncheonette 5 Public Square, Watertown (315) 782-2935 Savory Café 1511 Washington St., Watertown (315) 785-6464 Sboro’s Restaurant 836 Coffeen St., Watertown (315) 788-1728

February 2011 | NNY Business

| 43

BUSINESS HISTORY

Letters planted seed for ag, business n Jefferson wrote early city leaders, urged support for agrarian society

By WILLIAM G. WOOD and BONI SHAFER

T

Jefferson County Historical Society

homas Jefferson’s letter of June 19, 1819, from his home in Monticello, Va., was sent to corresponding secretary Micah Sterling of the newly formed Jefferson County Agricultural Society. Sterling, along with LeRay de Chaumont, Jacob Brown, Ethel Bronson, Daniel Talcot, D. Hungerford, and E. Ten Eyck, were officers of the society in 1819.

Jefferson wanted to support America as a republic and as an agrarian society.

He was able to accurately depict many Americans as subsistence farmers who farmed, or found labor to farm, their own land in order to support themselves and their family.

Jefferson was favorable toward subsistence farmers and the agricultural society of America because he was less than trusting of capitalism. Many agricultural societies and community fairs started in the country supporting President Jefferson’s ideas to promote agriculture and domestic manufacturing. The north country’s Jefferson County Fair would become the longest continuously running fair in the United States.

The fair, first organized by the Jefferson County Agricultural Society in Watertown on Oct. 25, 1817, was inspired by an event prior to that, which showed the first act of encouragement for agricultural interests and manufacturers in the county.

On April 8, 1808, a competition was scheduled for anyone who lived in the county to prove who could produce the best woolen cloth of texture and quality not less than 30 yards long. James D. LeRay, having imported some fine sheep, provided the material. Specimens were produced by Hart Massey and Noadiah Hubbard that were so nearly alike in quality that the premium was divided.

44 |

NNY Business | February 2011

JEFFERSON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY | FOR NNY BUSINESS

In an 1819 letter to corresponding secretary Micah Sterling of the then-newly formed Jefferson County Agricultural Society, former U.S. President Thomas Jefferson shows his support for agriculture and manufacturing. An exhibit of presidential documents begins Feb. 11 at the Jefferson County Historical Society Museum, 228 Washington St.

Martin Van Buren

Martin Van Buren, the eighth United States president, served from 1837 to 1841.

Among his political distinctions are many firsts — he was the first president born an American citizen and the first president to hail from New York State.

In a letter on display at the Jefferson County Historical Society’s “Presidents” exhibit, Van Buren’s thoughts are on the upcoming election of 1828, considered by many modern historians to be one of the nastiest in American history as well as the catalyst for our present day two-party political system.

John Quincy Adams and Andrew Jackson ran against each other in the election of 1824, which Adams won. In 1827, Jackson was nominated once again to run against Adams, then the incumbent. Van Buren recognized the potential of Jackson as a presidential candidate early on. He became one of the well-known managers of the Jackson campaign and one of his most outspoken supporters. The election of 1828 would eventually end in a land

slide victory for Jackson.

Written in February 1827, this letter was probably addressed to Watertown native Perley Keyes, whom Van Buren befriended while they both served in the New York State Senate. In the beginning of his letter, Van Buren references his recent victory in the United States Senate and the Adams administration’s dismay at his re-election, particularly by such a large margin.

He correlates his strong support base in New York, which delivered him a landslide Senate victory, to the likelihood of Jackson winning the state in the 1828 election. Van Buren speculated that if reports were circulated of New York as a body supporting Adams, it might negatively impact Jackson’s chances of winning the state; however, he should have no problem acquiring enough votes to win New York’s electoral votes.

The “Presidential Documents and Historic Papers Exhibition” is on display Friday, Feb. 11, through Monday, July 4, at the Jefferson County Historical Society

Museum, 228 Washington St., Watertown.

The exhibit showcases more than 25 documents bearing original signatures from 14 presidents, artifacts and other historic documents related to Jefferson County, including the two noted above. George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and others will be live “hosts” of visitors to the museum on selected dates. “Save the Presidents” is the theme for a fundraising campaign to assist with the JCHS operations and conservation costs. n William G. Wood is executive director of the Jefferson County Historical Society. He is a 25year corporate and retail business veteran with more than a decade of leadership involvement in nonprofits and, until 2008, a small business owner. Contact him at director@jeffersoncounty history.org. n Boni Shafer is a researcher and volunteer who aids the Jefferson County Historical Society’s collections curator and other north country historical societies and nonprofit organizations. n For museum hours and program updates and to learn more about the Jefferson County Historical Society, visit www.jeffersoncountyhistory.org. Business History appears monthly in NNY Business.

NEXT MONTH

I

n our March cover story we visit with Northern New York women in business for our first look at women-owned and operated businesses in the north country.

Also coming next month: n EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS — Late in January, Jefferson County Job Development Corp. honored north country businesses with its Business of Excellence Award and Business Venture Award. We take you behind the doors of the businesses that garnered top honors. n HEALTHY WOMEN — A special 10-page report featuring stories about women’s health. Don’t miss advice from Northern New York medical professionals who share tips for busy women on staying healtly in an ever-demanding workplace.

JOB & CAREER EXPO brought to you by the

Greater Watertown North Country Chamber of Commerce & The Workplace

is currently accepting registration for employers to represent their companies! Get the change to recruit employees and gain exposure for your business!

Over 1,000 job seekers expected!

MARCH 3, 2011 DULLES STATE OFFICE BUILDING 10:00AM – 4:30PM For registration materials or more information, please contact Greater Watertown North Country Chamber of Commerce, 1241 Coffeen Street, Watertown, NY 13601 Phone (315) 788-4400 Fax (315) 788-3369 Email events@watertownny.com

Sponsors:

n 20 QUESTIONS WITH Lisa A. Weber, chief executive officer and president of Timeless Frames, Decor & Expressions. In 1999, Ms. Weber bought a small picture frame manufacturer that had a staff of seven. Twelve years later, her company employs more than 200. n PLUS: NNY Snapshot, Economically Speaking, Commerce Corner, Nonprofits Today, Business Tech Bytes, Small Business Success, Real Estate, Agri-Business, History, Business Scene and more.

February 2011 | NNY Business

| 45

W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G H E R E ?

REGAL CINEMAS SALMON RUN STADIUM 12 LOCATION: Northwest entrance of Salmon Run Mall, outer Arsenal St. SIZE: 51,000 square feet, including 12 auditoriums, 2,100 seats and a 362-space ancillary parking lot west of the cinema beyond the existing ring road.

COMPLETION DATE: Late spring.

Site work began last May. Former 8-screen theater was demolished last summer.

LOCAL JOBS: Several hundred construction jobs; up to 50 fulland part-time jobs when open.

COST: $12 million CONTRACTORS: Blalock Building Co., Trussville, Ala., Time Cap Development Corp., Syracuse

AMANDA MORRISON | NNY BUSINESS

Construction continues at the Regal Cinemas Salmon Run Stadium 12 expansion, 21182 Salmon Run Mall Loop, Watertown. The expanded theater will feature digital projection, more RealD 3-D projection systems, digital surround sound, stadium seating, a computerized box office and automated ticket kiosks.

BUILDING PERMITS n Fourth-quarter 2010 building permits issued in the city of Watertown (October—December)

New construction

n 10/07 14-by-24 garage, 1640 Ohio St., $10,200 n 10/12 28-by-32 garage, 250 Breen Ave., $21,000 n 11/01 New home, 924 Ives St,. $300,000 n 11/02 Demo/add new building, 268 Arsenal St., $299,939 n 11/04 Phase I foundation IHCR, 1200 Jewell Drive, $1,842,583 n 11/04 Phase I Hospice, 1398 Gotham St., $0.50 n 11/08 10-by-14 shed, 180 Palmer St., $2,500 n 11/12 10-by-14 shed, 643 Hamilton St., $1,950

46 |

n 11/18 Install 10-by-20 shed, 438 Newell St., $2,823 n 11/29 20-by-20 shed, 759 Starbuck Ave., $4,000 n 11/19 8-by-12 shed, 1149 State St., $1,000 n 11/29 4-story hotel, 1290 Arsenal St., $5,614,000 n 12/15 14-by-28 shed, 1057 Arsenal St., $950

Additions

n 10/06 14-by-16 carport, 409 Coffeen St., $2,000 n 10/06 Single dormer, 317 Iroquois Ave., $10,000 n 10/26 Phase I foundation, 652 Arsenal St., $30,000 n 10/29 Kitchen only, 192 Bellew Ave., $50,000 n 10/29 Foundation only,

NNY Business | February 2011

192 Bellew Ave $0.50 n 11/02 7-by-7 shed, 612 Sherman St., $399 n 10/26 Handicap ramp, 1371 Sunset Ridge, $1,500 n 11/23 Unspecified addition, 135 Keyes Ave., $8,000 n 12/01 14-by-20 addition, 1011 Waterman Drive, $22,000 n 11/24 Unspecified addition, 652 Arsenal St., $470,000 n 12/07 10-by-10 laundry room, 1050 Arsenal St., $11,000 n 12/15 Interior, floor-level add, 121 Washington St., $100,000

Alterations

n 10/28 Enclose rear deck, 360 Brainard St., $11,500 n 11/04 Install deck and ramp, 919 Academy St., $8,500

n 11/05 Corridor with passway, 830 Washington St., $14,900 n 11/16 Unspecified alteration 800 Starbuck Ave., $30,000 n 11/17 Unspecified alteration 144 Eastern Blvd., $50,000 n 11/17 Unspecified alteration 1662 State St., $80,000 n 11/03 Unspecified alteration 918 Arsenal St., $80,000 n 12/13 Interior alteration, 616 LeRay St., $250,000 n 12/27 Interior alteration/nail salon, 1283 Arsenal St. $35,000 n 12/27 Interior alteration, 340 Arsenal St., $7,000

$9,702,745 New city permit activity

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