NNY Business January 2017

B

Y usIness // ANNUAL OUTLOOK ISSUE

JANUARY 2017 Volume 7 No. 1

nnybizmag.com

***

THE INTERVIEW Save the River’s

Lee Willbanks

$2.95

p. 32

/nnybusiness @NNYBusinessMag

// NORTHERN NEW YORK’S PREMIER BUSINESS MONTHLY //

2 | NNY Business | January 2017

January 2017 | NNY Business

|3

20UNDER40

BusIness

NORTHERN NEW YORK’S EMERGING LEADERS

NNY

MAGAZINE

Thanks its generous sponsors for making the 2016 20 Under 40 event a success!

PRESENTING SPONSOR:

GOLD-LEVEL SPONSORS:

BRONZE-LEVEL SPONSORS:

Jefferson County Economic Development

LEADERSHIP-LEVEL SPONSORS:

EVENT PARTNER

4 | NNY Business | January 2017

MEDIA PARTNERS

>>

Inside JANUARY 2017 44 14 24

22 |

COVER |

14 OUTLOOK 2017

A look at how the exchange rate affects the eceonomy in the tri-county region. |

BUSINESS BRIEFCASE |

24 TUG HILL SEASON STARTS STRONG

Increased snow fall brings tourism and economic growth to Lewis County business. |

SMALL BIZ STARTUP |

13 LITTLE FRIENDS VET

|

SMALL BUSINESS |

22 25 YEARS IN BUSINESS Stratton Hardware celebrates 25 years in business, thanks community support. |

BUSINESS FEATURE |

44 JUDGING WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB DOG SHOW Watertown breeder top judge after years of involvement. |

TOP TRANSACTIONS |

25 JEFFERSON COUNTY The top 10 property sales in Jefferson County in December 2016.

|

BUSINESS SCENE |

40 TELEMEDICINE USE SPREADING IN NNY Agency records more than 1,700 virtual visits from 3 counties in 3 years. |

ONLINE |

NNYBIZMAG.COM Connect with us online for daily updates, more photos and exclusive Web content.

January 2017 | NNY Business

|5

CONTRIBUTORS

BusIness www.nnybizmag.com

Chairman of the Board John B. Johnson Jr.

Editor & Publisher Holly C. Boname is a associate magazine editor for NNY Magazines.

Lance M. Evans is executive officer for the Jefferson-Lewis and St. Lawrence County Board of Realtors.

Rande Richardson is executive director of the Northern New York Community Foundation.

John B. Johnson

Co-Publisher

Harold B. Johnson II

Magazine Editor Brian Kelly

Magazine Associate Editor Holly C. Boname

Photography

Amanda Morrison, Stephen Swofford

Director of Advertising Jill Van Hoesen is chief information officer for Johnson Newspapers and a 28-year IT veteran.

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

Sarah O’Connell is an advisor for the New York state Small Business Development Center at SUNYJefferson.

Michelle Bowers

Advertising Sales

Teresa Cantwell, Justin Sullivan, Jill Halley, Laurie Denesha, Barb Loomis, Jim Homa, Katie Nelson, Cindy Aucter, Yvonne Houppert and Lori Coburn

Advertising Graphics

Brian Mitchell, Rick Gaskin, Heather O’Driscoll, Scott Smith, Todd Soules

Circulation Director Mary Sawyer

Joleene Moody is a freelance writer who lives in Pulaski with her husband and daughter.

Norah Machia is a freelance writer and veteran Watertown Daily Times reporter.

MARKETPLACE Community Health..................3 Advanced Business Systems 27 Blue Spruce Motel.................46 BOCES Adult Education........12 Clayton Dental.......................46 Coleman’s Corner.................46 Crouse Hospital.....................19 DL Calarco Funeral Home....36 Dr. Guitar................................46 Factory Direct Mattresses.....46 Fairgrounds Inn......................46 Fire & Ice.................................8 Food Bank of CNY.................27 Foy Agency Inc.....................23 Fuccillo Automotive...............8 Fuller Insurance.....................23 HD Goodale Co....................23

6 | NNY Business | January 2017

High Tower/Morgia Group....21 Hospice of Jefferson County..33 JCC Small Business...............33 Jefferson County Economic Development.........................25 LoFink Ford Mercury..............34 Nortz & Virkler.........................8 NNY Business..........................4 Overhead Door Company...46 Paradise Energy....................36 RBC Wealth Management...25 Robert D. Schonfield.............46 Sea Comm Federal..............35 Shred Con..............................36 Slack Chemical Co...............37 Snapshots Photo....................21 Tayloured Events...................33

Tunes 92.5..............................40 Wait Motor Sports..................19 Waite Toyota.........................40 Watertown Daily Times.........23 Watertown Industrial Development Corp................3 Watertown Local Development Corp...............43 Watertown Savings Bank.......2 Watertown Spring & Alignment............................8 TF Wright & Sons......................9 WWTI ABC50....................21, 47 Ziebart.....................................8

NNY Business (ISSN 2159-6115), is published monthly by Northern New York Newspaper Corp., 260 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601, a Johnson Newspaper Corp. company. © 2010-2017. All material submitted to NNY Business becomes property of Northern New York Newspaper Corp., publishers of the Watertown Daily Times, and will not be returned.

Subscription Rates 12 issues are $15 a year and 24 issues are $25 for two years.

Call 315-782-1000 to subscribe.

Submissions Send all editorial correspondence to keysaman@wdt.net Advertising For advertising rates and information in Jefferson and Lewis counties, email mbowers@wdt.net, or call 315-661-2345 In St. Lawrence County, e-mail blabrake@ogd.com, or call 315-661-2507 Printed with pride in U.S.A. at Vanguard Printing LLC, Ithaca, N.Y., a Forest Stewardship Certified facility.

Please recycle this magazine.

|

INTERVIEW

|

|

ABOUT THE COVER

|

28 PLAN 2014: SAVING A RIVER For Save the River executive director Lee Willbanks it’s a time for brief celebration as Plan 2014 was approved late in 2016. He discusses the impacts on wildlife, marinelife and residents. |

COLUMNS

|

32 NONPROFITS TODAY 34 BUSINESS TECH BYTES

|

DEPARTMENTS

8 9 10 12

35 AGRIBUSINESS 37 ENTREPRENEUR’S EDGE

|

EDITOR’S NOTE PEOPLE ON THE MOVE ECONOMIC SNAPSHOT BUSINESS BRIEFCASE

13 26 38 40

SMALL BIZ STARTUP REAL ESTATE ROUNDUP CALENDAR BUSINESS SCENE

For our annual economic outlook cover, NNY Business staff photographer Amanda Morrison captured American and Canadian currency, showing the differential between the exchange rate. This years cover would not have been possible without the continued support of Watertown Savings Bank, who opened their vault to allow Ms. Morrison to capture the cover image.

ATERTOWN DAILY TIMES

LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL SPORTS • LOCAL VIEWS

Call 315-782-1012 or (800)724-1012 for details on how you can get delivery started today!

January 2017 | NNY Business

|7

EDITO R’S N O T E

WATERTOWN SPRING & ALIGNMENT ASE CERTIFIED • HRS: M-F 8 TO 5

Offer: Shocks, CV Joints, Tune-Ups, NYS Inspections, Auto Trans. Service, AirConditioning Service, Alighments, Struts, Brakes, Oil Change w/Filter, Engine Repair, 21-pt Safety Check, Fuel Injection Service and More!

445 COFFEEN ST., WATERTOWN

788-6831 or 1-800-359-1210

NORTZ & VIRKLER, INC. 7468 State St., Lowville, NY 376-6594

Serving Lewis • Jefferson and Surrounding Counties for 97 Years - Serving You Since 1916!

RIDES FOR LESS!

Affordable Auto Rentals.

Daily & Weekly Rates.

Extended Terms Available.

MON. - FRI. 8AM-5:30PM, SAT. 8AM-2PM OR BY APPOINTMENT

FULL LINE FORD PRODUCTS QUALITY FIRST CLASS SERVICE & SALES

www.nortzandvirklerford.com

1-800-957-5748

• car audio • speedliner spray-on bedliner • leer truck caps • nerf bars • complete auto detailing • window tinting • bedliners • tonneau covers • grill guards • running boards • auto alarms • luggage racks • rust protection • sound barrier • paint protection • fabric protection • mud flaps • remote starter • fog lights • vent visors • bug deflectors 19101 U.S. Rte. 11 Watertown, NY 13601

315-785-0904

A

s any casual observer of Arsenal Street and Salmon Run Mall traffic can tell you, there are far fewer Canadian license plates to be seen in town in recent months in comparison with some past years.

As recently as 2012, the Canadian dollar was trading at or near par with the American dollar. Canadians poured over the international bridges in the north country to take advantage of cheaper gas, clothing and meals. Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties Brian Kelly all reported sales tax revenues that exceeded forecasts.

Fast forward to 2016, when the Canadian dollar traded at an average of 71 cents against the U.S. dollar, among the lowest rates in decades. Cross-border trips by Canadians dropped, according to tourism watchers, and sales tax revenue, particularly in St, Lawrence County, has felt the pinch.

In this issue of NNY Business, writer Marc Heller looks at the potential trend for the Canadian dollar in 2017. Some people are predicting a continued slide of the Canadian dollar, while others are calling for a slight rebound. Among the unknowns is the impact President Trump’s economic policies will have on the trade.

Sponsored by: WATERTOWN

DA I LY T I M E S

Receive A $10 Discount On Any Purchase Over $50!

EXIT 41 OFF ROUTE 81, ROUTE 11, ADAMS

232-3222 or 1-800-235-8037

8 | NNY Business | January 2017

Enjoy,

Tickets available at the Jefferson County Historical Society and are also available online at www.jeffersoncountyhistory.org.

$40 per person.

Tickets includes an evening full of Live Music, Fire Dancers, a complimentary drink from the Ice Bar and hors d’oeuvres.

Includes Parts or Labor. Offer ends 1/31/17.

(Cannot be used with any other offers.)

FUCCILLO AUTO MALLS

As Marc’s story points out, it’s not just large retailers and county governments that have a stake in the issue. Small business owners, hotel operators and tourist destinations will be keeping an eye on the exchange rate in 2017.

Also in this issue, Lee Willbanks, executive director of Clayton’s Save the River, answers questions about the potential environmental and economic impacts of Plan 2014, the basic strategy for regulating Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River water levels.

The plan, which already sounds somewhat outdated in 2017, took about 15 years to develop and Save the River was involved in its formulation from the beginning. Lee explains why the plan’s development took so long and why it then took more time for the United States and Canadian governments to formally adopt it, which occurred in early December.

This issue marks the beginning of the year for NNY Business and my first issue as editor of the monthly magazine. I’ve reported on local issues for the Watertown Daily Times for nearly 20 years, including a stint as the business reporter, and am looking forward to exploring matters that effect our shared regional commerce and pocket books.

Performing...

FEB. 11, 2017 • 7-11pm

Enjoy an evening of entertainment, ice sculptures and exhibits featuring the great storms and devastating fires that have hit Jefferson County.

The Ice Bar will be provided by Club 9.

2 2 8 WA S H I N G T O N S T R E E T, WA T E R T O W N

P E O P L E O N T H E M O VE

Pediatrician joins staff of Got business milestones? hospital in Potsdam n Share your business milestones with NNY BusiPediatrician Emily Smith has joined the medical staff at Canton-Potsdam Hospital.

Dr. Smith graduated from New York Medical College, Valhalla. She completed her residency in pediatrics at Upstate Galisano Children’s Hospital, part of University Smith Hospital, Syracuse.

During her residency she also volunteered at an independent, pediatric walk-in clinic providing medical care to Native Americans on the Onondaga Nation reservation.

Dr. Smith is now seeing patients from newborns up to 18 years of age. She is trained to follow children and adolescents through developmental stages. She observes and screens for developmental delays, problems relating to the development of the bones and muscles, nutrition and eating disorders, endocrine disorders such as growth hormone deficiency or diabetes, and behavioral issues. She also offers vaccinations and sports physicals.

Carthage Behavioral Health Introduces New Providers

Carthage Area Hospital is pleased to introduce, Jenna Evans, LMSW and Andrew Petersen, Psychotherapist, LMSW to their Carthage Behavioral Health team located at 3 Bridge St. in Carthage. Both providers are now seeing patients.

Kitchens, Bathrooms, Tabletops, Desktops, Workbenches and Coffee Tables.

Choose from our Granite & Marble Selections. We also offer a Selection of Stone Veneer.

ness. Email news releases and photos (.jpg/300 dpi) to associate magazine editor Holly Boname at hboname@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.

Ms. Evans, LMSW, originally from Cortland, NY, obtained her Masters of Social Work from the University of Southern California. She comes to us from the Community Clinic of Jefferson Evans County.

Mr. Peterson, LMSW, originally from Queens, NY, obtained his Bachelors of Arts in Philosophy and his Masters of Clinical Social Work from Touro Graduate School of Social Work in New York City. Mr. Peterson comes to us from the ChilPeterson dren’s Home of Jefferson County where he was a Pediatric Therapist.

River Hospital welcomes new orthopedic specialist

Orthopedic Specialist Dr. Russell LaFrance has joined the Ambulatory Surgery Units at River Hospital in Alexandria Bay.

Dr. LaFrance earned his medical degree at the University of Buffalo and completed his orthopedic residency at the University of Rochester Medical Center. While working at a clinic LaFrance in Los Angeles, he treated professional athletes from teams such as the Dodgers, Lakers, and Kings.

He will perform outpatient surgeries and hold office hours to see patients. Dr. LaFrance has experience in a range of orthopedic medicine, including sports medicine, knee ligament and rotator cuff repairs, arthroscopy, meniscus tears and more.

First female consecrated as CNY Episcopal bishop

First female Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Central New York, the Right Rev. DeDe Duncan-Probe, was consecrated at a ceremony in Liverpool.

The 11th Bishop of Central New York, the Right Rev. Duncan-Probe will lead the 13,000 member Diocese, including 86 local churches and chapels in Central New York and the North Country. Prior to her ordination and consecration, the Right Rev. Duncan-Probe was elected in August.

She previously served as rector of St. Peter’s in the Woods Episcopal Church in Fairfax Station, Va. She has four degrees, including a doctorate in philosophy in theology from Oxford University and a master’s in psychology from Pepperdine University.

Come down and discover the Traditional Quality & Craftsmanship that only T.F. Wright & Sons Granite Foundry can bring to your design application for monuments!

You Name the Countertop Type, We Can Do It Offering Cemetery Restorations & Monument Restorations Corner of Brookside Cemetery & Spring Valley 609 Adelaide Street, Carthage, NY 13619 & Watertown, NY 13601 (315) 785-8500 (315) 493-2963 • (315) 493-2965 Fax email: tfwrightgranite@aol.com or visit www.tfwrightgranite.com

OPEN: MONDAY-FRIDAY 8AM-5PM • SATURDAY 10AM-2PM

January 2017 | NNY Business

|9

November 2016 $1.46 October 2016 $1.62 November 2015 $1.56

6.4%

JANUARY BRIDGE CROSSING DATA NOT AVAILABLE DUE TO UNAVAILABLILTY OF FIGURES FROM OGDENSBURG BRIDGE & PORT AUTHORITY

Source: NYS Department of Agriculture

Average NNY price for gallon of regular unleaded gas

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

November 2016 $2.30 October 2016 $2.29 November 2015 $2.26

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

1.8%

$1.34 on Nov. 30, 2016 $1.34 on Oct. 31, 2016 $1.13 on Nov. 30, 2015

November 2016 $2.36 October 2016 $2.29 November 2015 $2.42

2.5%

1%

Source: Federal Reserve Bank of N.Y.

Average NNY price for gallon of residential propane

Nonagriculture jobs in the Jefferson-Lewis-St. Lawrence counties area, not including military positions

November 2016 $2.77 October 2016 $2.75 November 2015 $2.37

91,700 in November 2016 92,600 in October 2016 91,900 in November 2015

16.9%

0.2%

Source: NYS Energy Research and Development Authority

Source: NYS Department of Labor

Jefferson-Lewis Board of Realtors single-family home sales

St. Lawrence Board of Realtors single-family home sales

122, median price $125,600 in November 2016 138, median price $154,500 in October 2016 100, median price $137,400 in November 2015

66, median price $110,000 in November 2016 64, median price $94,000 in October 2016 61, median price $75,000 in November 2015

22%

8.6%

Sales

5%

Price

46.7%

Sales

Price

Source: St. Lawrence Board of Realtors Inc.

Source: Jefferson-Lewis Board of Realtors Inc.

NNY unemployment rates

5.0 November 2015

4.9 October 2016

4.6

United States

November 2016

4.9 November 2015

5.2 October 2016

5.9 November 2015

5.1

5.9

6.2 November 2016

New York State

October 2016

6.1 5.3 October 2016

5.6 November 2016

November 2015

Lewis County

November 2015

St. Lawrence County

6.5 5.7 October 2016

6.3

Jefferson County

November 2016

ECON SNAPSHOT

Average NNY price for gallon of home heating oil

10 | NNY Business | January 2017

(Percent gains and losses are over 12 months)

Average per-gallon milk price paid to N.Y. dairy farmers

November 2016

NNY

Economic indicators

Source: U.S. Department of Labor and New York State Department of Labor (Not seasonally adjusted. Latest available data reported.)

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

Economic indicators New automobiles (cars and trucks) registered in Jefferson County

Trucks Cars 111 in November 2016 318 in November 2016 135 in October 2016 492 in October 2016 271 in November 2015 94 in November 2015

17.3%

NNY

7.2%

Source: Jefferson County Clerk’s Office

Passengers at Watertown International Airport

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

2,983 inbound and outbound in November 2016 N/A inbound and outbound in October 2016 2,593 inbound and outbound in November 2015

2,244 in November 2016 2,253 in October 2016 2,290 in November 2015

13%

DBAs

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

DBA (doing business under an assumed name) certificates filed at the Jefferson County Clerk’s office Dec. 1 to Dec. 30, 2016. For a complete list of DBAs filed in past months, visit WWW.NNYBIZMAG.COM.

DEC. 30: Nier Racing, 35789 Jackson 2 Road, Carthage, Eric Nier, 35789 Jackson 2 Road, Carthage.

Gagnon Construction, 34795 Eddy Road, Theresa, Adam J. Gagnon, 34795 Eddy Road, Theresa.

DEC. 29: Murrays Woodrow Farm, 27055 County Route 57, Three Mile Bay, Kenneth B. Murray, 25995 County Route 57, Three Mile Bay. Whole Package Fitness, 11771 State Route 12E, Chaumont, Lisa M. Simard, 11771 State Route 12E, Chaumont.

DEC. 28: Piercings By B, 514 Factory St., Watertown, Brittany Tuburski, 10705 State Route 26, Carthage.

G & W Service Center, 31181 Route 11, Philadelphia, William B. Ray, Jr., 227 Winslow St., Watertown.

Fire Dog Water Delivery, 5764 County Route 97, Adams, David R. Ratigliano, 5764 County Route 97, Adams.

Napoleons House of Style II, 342 State St., Watertown, Kamryn N. Jones, 630 Emerson St., Watertown, Romero N. Jones, 630 Emerson St., Watertown.

DEC. 27: Mud Man Studio, 1407 State St., Watertown, Bryant D. Pignone, 1407 State St., Watertown.

1000 Islands Campground, 42095/42099 State Route 12, Alexandria Bay, Richard P. Gilbert, 7689 Morning Star Lake, Ontario, NY, Terrance J. Glidden, 3538 View Point Dr., Macedon.

DEC. 23: Swift Snow Removal and Property Management, 787 Pearl St., Watertown, Breanna N. Farr, 27634 State Route 283, Lot 53, Black River, Andrew W. Farr, 27634 State Route 283, Lot 53, Black River.

DEC. 22: Hollehan’s Roasted Nuts, 32377 State Route 12, Depauville, Thomas M. Brennan, 24 Killdeer Lane, Fairport, Julie A. Brennan, 24 Killdeer Lane, Fairport.

DEC. 20: Trophy Chasers Sportfishing Service, 19125 Caird road, Adams Center, Jason D. Chrissley, 19125 Caird road, Adams Center.

Anna Meas Antiques & Home Décor, 16 East Church St., Adams, Crystal A. Wilson, 16 East Church St., Adams.

Cozy Kitchen, 30092 State Route 3, Black River, Guy K. Carlisle, 411 West Mullin St., Watertown.

DEC. 19: Carter Creek Hop Farm, 33108 Carter Street Road, LaFargeville, Marcus A. Walldroff, 32836 Carter Street Road, LaFargeville.

DEC. 16: Upstate Snowplowing, Hunting St., Watertown, Christopher Netto, Huntington St., Watertown.

Nick’s Heating and Cooling, 146 Union St., Apt. 1, Watertown, Nicholas F. Esford, 146 Union St., Apt. 1, Watertown.

Sweet Confections By Latasha, 26005 Liberty Ave., Watertown, Latasha S. Moseley, 26005 Liberty Ave., Watertown, Rodney C. Moseley, 26005 Liberty Ave., Watertown.

DEC. 15: Jefferson County Auctions, 30105 County Route 4, Cape Vincent, Gerald Chapman, 30105 County Route 4, Cape Vincent.

DEC. 14: Riverside Farm, 32089 County Route 6, Cape Vincent, Carly W. Basinger, 32089 County Route 6, Cape Vincent.

DEC. 12: All Seas Trading, 17 North Main St., Adams, Kristi G. Rawlins, 17 North Main St., Adams, John E. Rawlins, 17 North Main St., Adams.

North Country Property and Home Inspections, 141 Maynard Ave., Dexter, James G. Gwise, 141 Maynard Ave., Dexter.

DEC. 9: Deka Properties, 15737 County Route 76, Adams Center, Dustin Clark, 15737 County Route 76, Adams Center.

Sunderland Transport, 12572 School St., Rodman, Christopher P. Sunderland, 12572 School St., Rodman.

DEC. 8: Northern New York Professional Photography, 918 Academy St., Watertown, Diane Simpson, 27094 Wilson Road, Theresa, Misty Ann Thomas, 918 Academy St., Watertown.

Woodguy, 25371 State Route 12 South, Watertown, Thomas P. Maguire, 17193 County Route 156, Watertown.

DEC. 7: Great Escape Mind Body & Soul, LLC, 44 Public Square, Watertown, Great Escape Mind Body & Soul, LLC, 14532 North St., Adams Center.

DEC. 6: Madic Cards Shops, 42810 Paynes Lake Camp Road, Theresa, Mary C. Dillion, , 42810 Paynes Lake Camp Road, Theresa.

A Bay Luxury Limousine, 42736 State Route 12, Alexandria Bay, Madelena M. Cappuccetti, 30344 Farrel Road, Evans Mills.

DEC. 2: Spoiled Child, 26853 Anabele Ave., Evans Mills, Arial L. Bauer, 26853 Anabele Ave., Evans Mills.

Bedrock Property Services, 37882 State Route 12E, Clayton, Timothy Doney, 37878 State Route 12E, Clayton.

Moon Lake Farm, 31947 County Route 22, Theresa, Christopher M. Trickley, 31947 County Route 22, Theresa, Michael C. Trickey 31947 County Route 22, Theresa.

Dell S. Heating Mics. Repairs, 43011 State Route 3, Natural Bridge, Dell J. Olley, 43011 State Route 3, Natural Bridge.

Joe Cipullo Mechanicals, 38814 State Route 12E, Clayton, Joseph C. Cipullo, 38814 State Route 12E, Clayton.

DEC. 1: Snyders Snack Shack, 231 East Main St., Brownville, Robert D. Snyder, 231 East Main St., P.O. Box 639, Brownville, Jennifer L. Snyder, 231 East Main St., P.O. Box 639, Brownville.

Save A Life, 662 Bronson St., #A, Watertown, Christina Moctezuma, 662 Bronson St., #A, Watertown.

TRANSACTIONS

Source: Jefferson County Board of Legislators

2%

January 2017 | NNY Business

| 11

BUSINESS BRIEFCASE Today’s Hair and Day Spa Donates $550 to Center for Cancer Care

Canton-Potsdam Hospital’s Center for Cancer Care recently received $550 from Today’s Hair and Day Spa through the United in Pink fundraiser.

“We raise money every year for the Potsdam Navigation Program to help those who need support during a challenging time in their lives. Our mission is to continue to help our local community with our fundraisers,” said Shelly Murray, owner, Today’s Hair and Day Spa.

CPH’s Foundation Receives Donation from St. Lawrence Federal Credit Union

Canton-Potsdam Hospital’s Foundation recently received the first installment of a generous multi-year pledge from St. Lawrence Federal Credit Union.

The CPH Foundation exists to raise funds for the sole benefit of the patients served by Canton-Potsdam Hospital.

River communities make 8th annual masquerade ball a success

The Thousand Islands Young Leaders Organization’s (TIYLO) 8th Annual Christmas Masquerade Ball, held Friday Dec. 2, at Bonnie Castle Resort was able to increase attendance as well as the amount raised this year.

Donations in an amount over $19,000 went directly to local families in need during the holidays in the 1000 Islands region.

In the past eight years, this community fueled event has been able to contribute over $60,000 to help local families. Donations were given to the Clayton Christmas Fund, Hearts For Youth Organization, the food pantries of Clayton, Depauville, Cape Vincent, Alexandria Bay, Redwood, Orleans and Hammond, the BackPack Programs of Alexandria Bay, Carthage, Hammond, Indian River, Lafargeville and to Thousand Islands Central Schools. In addition, TIYLO was able to contribute to a Leadership Scholar12 | NNY Business | January 2017

ship Fund through the NNY Community Foundation which is available to regional high school seniors who demonstrate leadership and excellence, as exemplified through academic achievement and extracurricular activities, including commitment to community service.

TILT appoints two new board of trustee members

The Thousand Islands Land Trust has appointed Sarah Compo and Todd Atkinson as their newest board of trustees.

Sarah Compo currently works for State Senator Patty Ritchie and serves as the Senator’s Deputy Chief of Staff. In addition, she also owns an event coordinating company, “Soirée!

NNY.” After graduating from SUNY Geneseo, she worked as a reporting assistant for NBC’s TODAY show Financial Editor Jean Chatzky. She returned to the North Country in 2010, and for over two years worked as a reporter and weekend anchor for WWNY/Channel 7 in Watertown.

Sarah spends her summer months at her family’s home on Point Vivian.

Todd most recently served as Executive Vice President of Valmont Industries, one of the world’s leading providers of engineered products and services for infrastructure, and irrigation equipment for agriculture.

Prior to that, he served as the Chief Executive of Delta plc, a London based industrial group with operations in Europe, Asia Pacific, North America and South Africa. Todd has also practiced corporate and tax law, eventually transitioning to corporate development and executive management. Last spring Todd retired from Valmont and spends his summers and free time at a family summer home in Clayton and on Carleton Island.

Hobble Gobble Prediction Run/Walk 2016 raises 14K

The Hobble Gobble Prediction Run/ Walk 2016 raised $14,000 for the Potsdam Holiday Fund and other local charities. The race has raised $151,500 to date and we are looking forward to the 20th Anniversary in 2017.

Jefferson-Lewis BOCES

Lifelong Learning

www.bocesadulted.com

SMAL L BU SIN E SS S TA RT UP

“My fiancé has been the most supportive and helpful in opening Little Friends,” — Liane Amaral, DVM, owner of Little Friends Vet

BUSINESS

Little Friends Vet THE INITIAL IDEA As a young girl Liane Amaral took an interest in animals, wanting to care for them and the science behind how she could help them. It was this combination that led her to the path of studying veterinary medicine and opening her new clinic, Little Friends Vet. Graduating from Kansas State University in 1996, Ms. Amaral, practiced at veterinary hospitals from small rural communities, multi-specialty practices, and eventually serving as Chief of Staff of a large emergency hospital.

“I felt I had developed a good knowledge of my practice and wanted to share that with the people in our community,” Ms. Amaral said. And in August of 2016 she opened her doors to the public in Lyons Falls.

TARGET CLIENTELE Little Friends Vet serves a wide variety of household pets ranging from small invertebrates to large dogs. Ms. Amaral said she doesn’t treat farm or food animals, not because she doesn’t want to but instead because, “There are plenty of wonderful large

animal vets in our area for that.”

Treating smaller animals is just fine for Ms. Amaral; she strives to provide gentle care to her patients, especially her favorite animal the housecat.

“I love cats. For their fierceness and cunning, as well as their gentle companionship and love,” she said. Because of her love for cats, Ms. Amaral has advanced training and experience in feline behavior and dentistry.

While pets are the main priority, Ms. Amaral works also for the caring pet owners of the community.

“My target clientele are the people of our small, Northern New York communities. It’s the families and working folks, retirees and young people who live in our town,” she said. “I want to offer the very best care for their pets.” Ms. Amaral works with passion to provide personal service to her clientele, offering at-home visits and she is on call throughout her work day.

An important part of Ms. Amaral’s business is also offering low-cost services to members of the community who otherwise couldn’t afford the expense. “I offer low spay and neuter services through a partnership with Spay Neuter Now, a non-profit organization,” she said. The clinic

offers this service to the community once a month.

THE JOURNEY Finding a location for Little Friends Vet was never a problem for Ms. Amaral, she knew exactly where she wanted the clinic to call home. “I had my eye on the location next to Bath and Doggy Works in Lyons Falls for several years” she said. And when the space became available, that was when she knew the time was right.

“My fiancé has been the most supportive and helpful in opening Little Friends,” Ms. Amaral said. It was with his help and community support that the new clinic was able to open.

Since the opening in August, business has been good for Little Friends Vet and is growing.

IN FIVE YEARS While still in the first year of operation, Ms. Amaral has thoughts of expanding the business, allowing the clinic to offer many more procedures in cases of emergency.

“I’d like to expand just a little to offer dental care and minor surgical services. We just added a small surgical area and anesthesia equipment, and would like to purchase a dental table and unit within the next year,” she said.

WHERE 6793B McAlpine St, Lyons Falls | OPENED August 2016 | WEB littlefriendsvet.com

January 2017 | NNY Business

| 13

COVER STORY

STEPHEN SWOFFORD / NNY BUSINESS Top: Gary DeYoung, executive director of the Thousand Islands International Tourism Council, stands in front of the Thousand Islands Bridge.

Bottom: View of freighter traveling under the Thousand Islands Bridge during summer shipping.

14 | NNY Business | January 2017

COVER STORY

ECONOMIC OUTLOOK 2017

Flux in Canadian dollar impacts NNY economy DESPITE EXCHANGE RATE IMBALANCE BETWEEN U.S. AND CANADIAN DOLLAR BUSINESSES MAINTAIN VISION TOWARDS CONTINUED ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

BY MARC HELLER | NNY BUSINESS

S

ome of Tom Cheney’s best customers at his tire store in Watertown are Canadians, drawn by lower prices on this side of the border. But a weak Canadian dollar has Cheney Tire looking closer to home for the coming year’s sales.

The Canadian dollar tumbled against the U.S. dollar in 2016, and analysts say they don’t expect much of a recovery this year as Canadian and U.S. economic policies favor a similar gap. Hotels and restaurants are bracing for a long stretch of diminished business, as are sellers of items such as tires that aren’t geared to tourism but are part of the cross-border economy all the same.

“It’s remarkable. All summer long, it’s been the same way,” said Cheney, president of Cheney Tire, on State Street in Watertown, whose business from north of the border was robust when the two countries’ currency was close in value. “I have a lot of customers and a lot of friends in Canada,” he said, but some have called to say they won’t be buying again soon.

The Canadian dollar has been trading at an average of around 71 cents for the past year. That’s well below the currency spread of five percent or 10 percent that Cheney said can cut into his business. The Canadian dollar was last at par with the U.S. dollar in 2012 and has sunk each year since.

“A plunge in the value of the Canadian dollar has shifted the economics of Canada-U.S. travel and purchasing power significantly,” said TD Bank in an analysis in the early part of 2016. “Facing a 35-40% higher price tag based on simple currency adjustment alone has led to a considerable pullback in the number of Canadians heading south, especially on a short-term basis.”

Tires are among a handful of items that Canadians have seemed to be able to buy for less in the U.S., and which may not be so attractive now, said Gary DeYoung, executive director of the 1000 Islands Tourism Council, a promotional agency that looks for ways to draw Canadian and other business to

January 2017 | NNY Business

| 15

COVER STORY

STEPHEN SWOFFORD / NNY BUSINESS Tom Cheney, owner of Cheney Tires, has seen a decline in tire sales to Canadian customers due to the declining Canadian dollar.

the region along the St. Lawrence River.

“There are certain things that are just a better deal in the U.S.,” DeYoung said. “Tires are a big deal for Canadians to buy.”

So are shoes, cheese and other dairy goods, DeYoung said. But Canadians’ diminished purchasing power makes all of these items less of a bargain, and it inevitably leads to fewer purchases of items such customers would buy coincidentally on a visit — if they even make the trip.

“If you can’t shop, it’s one less reason to show up in the first place,” DeYoung said.

Cross-border traffic bears out DeYoung’s concern. Fewer Canadians are visiting Northern New York than two years ago, for both extended stays and for trips of just a day or two, according to government tallies. The number of Canadians returning to Canada by car in the St. Lawrence region fell by 21 percent from 2014 to 2015, and by 26 percent in the JanuaryMay period of 2016, compared to 16 | NNY Business | January 2017

two years earlier.

The number of Canadians returning to Canada by car after staying one night in the U.S. fell by 45 percent from 2014 to 2015, and by more than half — 52 percent — in the January-May period of 2016 compared to 2014.

Length of stay has a financial impact on consumers, as well, because Canadian customs rules allow citizens there to bring back a higher value of goods if they stay in the U.S. for 48 hours, for instance, than if they make a day trip, to avoid certain customs duties. That’s the reason, DeYoung said, that a Canadian shopper in front of him at Sam’s Club once asked the clerk to hold onto two of the four tires he was buying, so he could come back another time and return home to avoid the customs fee.

Staying longer is one way to make cross-border shopping more economical, reported the Web site crossbordershopping.ca., which gives Canadians tips on buying goods in the United States. The

Web site recently published a list of tips for cost-effective shopping, adding that the potential to find deals in the U.S. is still a “resounding yes” with some planning, even with an unfavorable exchange rate.

Other tips included avoiding ATM machines, favoring credit cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees, buying gas in the U.S. — where it’s as much as 25 percent cheaper — and ordering goods online from U.S. retailers and having them shipped to U.S. addresses near the border that provide such services. That avoids the cost of shipping into Canada, according to the Web site.

When traffic from Canada wanes, Upstate New York especially sees the impact. The state typically accounts for about a quarter of all Canadian car trips into the U.S., the federal government reported.

If sales to Canadians drop off enough, county governments lose sales tax revenue, DeYoung said.

That, in turn, affects local governments; Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties pass along more than 45 percent of county sales tax revenue to local governments, one of the higher sharing rates in New York, the state comptroller’s office reported.

Sales tax collections in Jefferson County outpace the rest of Upstate New York on a per capita basis, according to figures DeYoung keeps and tracks. That’s a bright spot in the economy that shows the strength of tourism. It also reveals a vulnerability when shopping becomes less affordable for Canadians. Retail store sales account for about 30 percent of all taxable sales in the county, he said.

Jefferson County’s retail sales fell by 6 percent, or $35 million, between 2013 and 2015, said DeYoung, who blames at least part of the decline on the weakened

COVER STORY Canadian dollar.

If sales tax collections in the region dwindle, that would reverse a trend that had the north country increasing its sales tax collections faster than other regions. New York City and the north country saw collections increase at an average of 4.8 percent from 2003 to 2014, for instance, greater than the average of 3.6 statewide, the comptroller’s office said.

Exchange rates play into tax collections either positively or negatively, the Comptroller’s Office reported. In 2008, the comptroller’s office said in its annual report on sales taxes that some counties along the northern border were benefitting enough from a strong Canadian dollar at that time to cushion the effects of the broader economic downturn.

A weak Canadian dollar can dampen efforts to attract Canadians to north country museums, which may not be destinations so much as stopping points on broader trips. The Frederic Remington Art Museum in Ogdensburg only takes about an hour to see but attracts Canadians interested in the artist’s works, said the museum’s director and curator, Laura Foster.

That business has tailed off, Foster said, although the museum advertises to Canadians and sees great potential in the market to the north.

“We try very hard, in a financially conservative way, to attract Canadians to visit the museum because they’re an underserved audience, and there are so many of them,” Foster said.

Poor exchange rates can cut into the museum financially, Foster said. A Canadian supporter generously donated $25,000 to the museum in 2016 — but that came out to $18,500 in U.S. dollars when deposited at the bank.

And since Canadians don’t receive a tax credit for donations to U.S.

JUSTIN SORENSEN / NNY BUSINESS New York State Senator Rich Funke speaks at the Empire State Tourism Conference earlier in 2016 at the Harbor Hotel in Clayton.

charities, those gifts are especially precious, she said.

The museum keeps trying.

Foster said a partnership with the Brockville Arts Centre in Ontario lets visitors there learn a bit about Remington and the U.S. museum, and the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority let the museum put up displays for free at the Ogdensburg Airport, recently expanded to accommodate direct flights to Florida — an effort targeted at Canadians looking for a cheaper route south.

Canadian travel to Florida in the winter — the so-called snowbird effect — doesn’t appear to be hurt by the exchange rate, according to the TD analysis. Nor does the overall picture for other longer-term Canadian visits, even as day trips and other short excursions suffer.

With more favorable exchange rates and the right mix of promotion, Foster said, Canadians “can be convinced to go across the bridge and past Price Chopper” to visit the museum.

The future of the exchange rate in the next year or more will depend in part on the policies of the incoming Trump administration.

Although Trump has sent mixed signals, his campaign promises and the approach of congressional Republicans tilt toward a stronger U.S. dollar, reported FXCM Market Insights.

The dollar has strengthened at the beginning of past Republican administrations, the analysts said.

But the Republican party platform calls for a stable currency and proposes creation of a committee to investigate ways to set a “fixed value” for the U.S. currency.

For his part, the FXCM analysts said, Trump has spoken favorably of a weaker dollar, which would benefit U.S. exports and — depending on Canadian policies as well — possibly attract more shoppers south. But he and congressional Republicans also say they want to reduce the U.S. federal debt and allow interest rates to climb again from near-zero levels, and that favors a stronger U.S. January 2017 | NNY Business

| 17

COVER STORY

MELANIE KIMBLER-LAGO / WATERTOWN DAILY TIMES Gurinder Grewal, Ogdensburg looks at the mixed media “Glamour World” by Clifton-Fine student Ankine Demircian duringan annual middle school art exhibit opening reception at the Fredric Remington Art Museum.

dollar, the analysts said.

Trump has also called for revisiting U.S. trade agreements and seeking to reduce the U.S. trade deficit, would would tend to favor a stronger U.S. dollar, according to the analysis.

Pushing in the other direction is the sluggish pace of economic recovery, analysts said.

“This suggests that any change in monetary policy would have to be carried out in a gradual manner and that any corresponding strengthening would also be gradual,” the report said.

The analysis by TD Bank predicted further drop-offs in Canadian visits and spending in the United States, although the bank didn’t predict a deeper slide in the Canadian dollar.

In fact, as crude oil prices climb, the Canadian dollar could lift a bit, the bank said.

Internet shopping may play into to the picture as well, but detailed market information on cross-border Canadian e-commerce is hard to come by, TD said. Web sites advising Canadians on shopping in the U.S. tout the United States’s greater 18 | NNY Business | January 2017

variety of goods, lower prices and better service, and TD said the longer-term upside to e-commerce is impressive.

However, TD said, online sales probably are affected similarly by poor exchange rates, so those sales could decline, giving Canadian Web sites a chance to gain market share.

Business in the opposite direction is beginning to benefit, TD

said, as Americans are slowly drawn back into Canada. While U.S. travelers will spend their stronger dollars on trips domestically and on trips to Europe and other destinations, travel to Canada should recover from an all-time low in U.S. visits in 2014, the bank said.

In the north country, businesses that take Canadian money at face value hope to counteract the effect of the exchange rate — if Canadians will travel to the U.S. in the first place. The Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce lists 14 of its members that take Canadian money at par, though several accept only cash and require identification.

Businesses taking Canadian money at par include the Best Western hotel in Watertown, the Ontario Place Hotel in Sackets Harbor and Bonnie Castle Resort in Alexandria Bay. The Dry Hill Ski Area in Watertown does as well, calculating that the summer tourist season isn’t the only time Canadians will visit Northern New York.

Another business set to go that route is the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton, which opened two years ago amid hopes it could attract Canadian visitors. Canadian guests are still a “very small” part

AMANDA MORRISON / NNY BUSINESS Seasonal business owners attribute Clayton’s 1000 Island Harbor Hotel, seen here at sunset, with boosting tourism in the area. The hotel has begun taking Canadian money at par.

COVER STORY of the upscale hotels’ clients, although the vast majority of people who come by boat to the hotel’s restaurant in warmer weather are Canadian, said the general manager, Todd Buchko. The hotel is operated by Hart Hotels.

“We were thinking it’d be a very big part of our business,” Buchko said.

Now, Buchko said, the hotel will

begin taking Canadian cash at par.

Modeling other businesses in the region, the hotel won’t treat credit cards in that fashion, he said, as bank fees would make that a more complicated endeavor.

Buchko said he’s not worried about losing money on Canadian currency, since he’s looking to generate business in the slow winter season on the St. Lawrence River

and eventually convince businesses downtown to expand winter hours — an outcome similar to what happened when a sister hotel opened in Watkins Glen. “Our goal is we really just want to get people here to the hotel.” n MARC HELLER, a former Watertown Daily Times reporter, is a freelance writer based in Washington, D.C.

NEW YEAR’S

SALES EVENT! REBATES UP TO

3,000 3.99% APR $

PLUS FINANCING AS LOW AS

FOR 36 MONTHS

18014 GOODNOUGH ST., ADAMS CENTER, NY

315-583-5680

HOURS: MONDAY-WEDNESDAY 8-5, THURSDAY & FRIDAY 8-6, SATURDAY 8-2

WWW.WAITEMOTORSPORTS.COM

January 2017 | NNY Business

| 19

Telemedicine use spreading in NNY

Agency records more than 1,700 virtual visits from 3 counties in 3 years

CHARLES WAINWRIGHT - WAINWRIGHT PHOTO A doctor at St. Joseph’s Hospital Health Center in Syracuse communicates in 2016 with a patient using telemedicine technology. Use of the technology in the north country has grown exponentially over the past three years.

BY JEN JACKSON | NNY BUSINESS

M

ore north country patients than ever are accessing health care remotely through new “telemedicine” services.

More than 1,700 appointments in Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties were recorded over the past three years by the North Country Telehealth Partnership.

Through telemedicine, patients in rural areas can visit their local hospital or doctor’s office and speak with medical specialists elsewhere in the state. There are more than 90 hospitals and healthcare providers currently using the secure video-conference technology to provide services such as counseling, diagnostics, and neurological assessment.

20 | NNY Business | January 2017

The North Country Telehealth Partnership is an initiative of the Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization, and has grown exponentially since its 2014 inception.

The number of telemedicine appointments recorded through the North Country Telehealth Partnership has jumped from only 40 in 2014 to 315 in 2015, and more than 1,300 in 2016 so far.

“Patients are gaining access to the care they need, when they need it, and where it is most convenient for them.” David C. Johnson, North Country Telehealth Partnership program coordinator, said in a statement. “While questions about reimbursement and regulatory restrictions remain

challenges to the implementation of telemedicine, this is only the beginning of its success in our region. Telemedicine is becoming and will be an essential part of the standard way to deliver care.”

According to FDRHPO, healthcare providers using the technology see fewer missed appointments and greater efficiency - especially with patients seeking behavioral health care. Less than two percent of the 1,700 telemedicine appointments were considered incomplete.

FDRHPO quoted Dr. Steven L. Lyndaker, founder of Lowville Medical Associates, as attesting to its benefits. His practice was one of the first in the region to adopt telemedicine.

“Convenient access to highquality psychiatric care through our tele-psychiatry service has been the single most impactful FDRHPO initiative at Lowville Medical Associates over the past few years,” Dr. Lyndaker said.

“Numerous patients have received timely care, avoiding considerable delay from time of referral to time of consult and thereby, quite honestly, reducing their emotional suffering. I am so grateful to offer this option to some of the most vulnerable in our practice.”

As new technologies emerge and expand, so grow the capabilities of telemedicine to diagnose and treat remotely. According to Mr. Johnson, the region is in the process of securing a portable retinal camera for local diabetic retinopathy screenings.

January 2017 | NNY Business

| 21

F E AT U R E S

Mike Stratton Sr., left, and Mike Stratton Jr. are marking the 25th anniversary of Stratton Hardware on Washington Street across from Watertown High School.

JUSTIN SORENSEN| NNY BUSINESS

Community is their Business

T

Watertown Hardware store celebrates 25 years

he veins of family business run deep in Northern New York. It’s the familiar faces and the community bond of small business that continue to drive the economy. And for one business it brought merriment as they celebrated their 25th anniversary in November 2016.

Stratton Hardware, a True Value an independently owned company, is a staple for many in the Watertown community and they continue to thrive in a world of big box hardware stores because of the residents that visit regularly.

“We used to hand write our orders, now we do everything on computers. All the big chain stores and big box stores that have come, we are now dinosaurs in the industry and we are happy that we can continue in small business in our local town,

22 | NNY Business | January 2017

that means a lot to us,” Mike Stratton, Sr. said.

The store has seen many changes but most recently, in an effort to continue growing and competing with the bigger chain hardware stores they are moving towards online sales. While not in effect yet, Mr. Stratton Jr. said this is a new and exciting change for their sales model.

Stratton Hardware opened in 1991 after Olin Tremont sold State Street Hardware to Mr. Stratton. His son, Mike Stratton Jr., now partner in the business, was working at a sports shop next door to the hardware store and joined his father shortly after their opening.

“When I’m not here he is,” Mr. Stratton Jr. said. They work as a team with Mr. Stratton focusing on customer service and Mr. Stratton Jr. maintaining the banking end of the

business.

“What an experience and pleasure to work with my son,” Mr. Stratton said. “It’s been a treasure, really.

To work with family and now the grandsons are coming into help, I couldn’t have done it without them.”

When asked what it means to celebrate 25 years in business both Stratton’s smile and attribute it to their community and the dedication of family being involved.

“It means time flies. I guess it’s great that we had such a great location, a neighborhood place we have a lot of true customers and repeat sales,” Mr. Stratton Jr. said.

“We hope to grow and expand and continue serving the community for another 25 years.”

n HOLLY BONAME is a associate

magazine editor for NNY Magazines.

Contact her at hboname@wdt.net or 661-2381.

Protect Your Investment H.D. Goodale Co. INSURANCE

145 Clinton St., Suite 107 Watertown, New York 13601

(315) 788-4581

goodale@northnet.org

THIS SPACE

“Celebrating 67 Years” Deer River 493-2391

Croghan 346-6378

Lowville 376-2731

AVAILABLE!

“We are not like a good neighbor, we are your good neighbor.”

WATERTOWN

Thousands of Photos Available For Sale!

DA I LY T I M E S

January 2017 | NNY Business

| 23

B USI N E SS ACTIVITY

Chad Mudron of Pittsburgh, Pa., refuels during a trip to the north country to enjoy some snowmobiling Jan. 2 at the Montague Inn. ‘We don’t get much snow out there,’ he said.

STEPHEN SWOFFORD | NNY BUSINESS

Snow a joy for Tug Hill businesses wild week for snowmobiling Unlike recent years, weather brings patrons to the area in droves A thick blanket of snow gave Tug Hill businesses an early Christmas present: plenty of business over the Christmas/New Year’s holiday week.

“It definitely is a nice boost for everybody,” said Stephen M. Hennigan, whose family owns the Montague Inn. The week between Christmas and New Year’s has historically been a wild week for snowmobiling on Tug Hill - so long as there is snow on the ground, Mr. Hennigan said. However, that hasn’t been the case in recent years, including last winter when the snow didn’t really come until New Year’s Day, he said.

This season, trails have been open for the past few weeks, and the combination of good snow conditions here and lack of good riding in other areas led to a strong business for both the Montague Inn’s restaurant and on-site motel from the day after Christmas through Jan. 1, the final day of 24 | NNY Business | January 2017

schools’ Christmas vacation, Mr. Hennigan said.

“We haven’t had that in four or five years, at least,” he said.

Mr. Hennigan said he was also happy to hear that most everyone stayed safe despite all the snowmobile traffic throughout the region.

“It seems like everyone had fun out there,” he said.

Michael K. Leviker, the Lewis County Sheriff’s Department’s parks and recreation officer, said he and other members of the county Snowmobile Patrol were out in full force, and he was only aware of a couple of minor crashes, one in which the driver just went to the hospital by private vehicle to get checked out.

There was also a report of parts stolen from a snowmobile parked at the Milk Plant Tavern in West Leyden on New Year’s afternoon, with state police investigating that incident, Mr. Leviker said.

BU SIN E SS A C T I VI T Y Trails were in good shape throughout the past weekend, he said.

“It is already better than last year,” Douglas M. Dietrich, president of the Lewis County Snowmobile Association, said of sledding-related business.

“I think everybody did pretty well.”

Mr. Dietrich, owner of the Golden Shamrock Bed and Breakfast in Glenfield, said he’s had a number of lodgers thus far this winter and is off to a much better start than last winter, when unseasonably warm weather led to a short snowmobiling season.

Despite relatively high temperatures early this week, trails remain in fairly good shape, and colder weather and snow in the forecast for later this week should help to continue the strong season, he said.

“I think things will hold up pretty well,” Mr. Dietrich said.

Lorraine “Pixie” Bobela, owner of the West Wind Motel and Townhouses in Turin and vice president of the Turin Ridge Riders snowmobile club, said the area has been teeming with both snowmobilers and skiers and snowboarders at the nearby Snow Ridge Ski Resort.

“It was all great for all our businesses,” she said.

Mrs. Bobela said it’s been quite some time since the winter season has started off so well and she was particularly happy for Snow Ridge, since its first year under new ownership corresponded with a relatively snowfree winter.

“They had a great holiday,” she said. “The skiing was good.”

Jefferson County Economic Development 315 782-5865

How Can Help You?

Grow with Jefferson County.

n STEVE VIRKLER is a Johnson Newspapers staff writer.

January 2017 | NNY Business

| 25

R EA L E STATE ROUNDUP

National Radon Action Month, Realtors Give Back in Their Communities

T

he Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has designated January as National Radon Action Month. The EPA notes that “Exposure to radon is a preventable health risk and testing radon levels in your home can help prevent unnecessary exposure. If a high radon level is detected in your home, you can take steps to fix the problem to protect yourself and your family.”

Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that can seep into your home from the ground. It is the second most common cause of lung cancer behind smoking. Basements or any area with protrusions into the ground offer entry points for radon. Radon tests can determine if high levels are present.

The EPA suggests testing your home for radon during January.

You can purchase a kit and do it yourself or hire a professional. In New York state, the Department of Health (www.health.ny.gov) has a list of certified radon testers on their site. In addition, state residents can fill out a form and mail it with $11, to the department and receive a test kit in the mail.

There is other radon related information on the site also. n n n

During December, both the St. Lawrence County Board of Realtors

and the Jefferson-Lewis Board of Realtors raised money and awareness for local charities.

In the early part of the month, both held their annual holiday parties that included fundraisers for their respective community service funds.

On December 8, the St. Lawrence County Board distributed $2100 to the Neighborhood Centers in Canton, Gouverneur, Massena, Ogdensburg, 26 | NNY Business | January 2017

Potsdam, and Waddington. The Centers are overseen by the St. Lawrence County Community Development Pro-

gram. Each center has a food pantry and assists with food and other emergencies such as utilities, fuel, and shelter. They work with Lance Evans families in the area of family development, budgeting, education, and job search. Similarly, the funds raised from the Jefferson-Lewis Board’s event went to support the Salvation Army, the Watertown Urban Mission, and other area charities. In addition, offices served as collection points for toileteries, food, and clothing that were distributed to the Jefferson County Children’s Home, Salvation Army, and Urban Mission.

On the 13th and 14th of December, Realtor members from both associations assisted at several area events. The St. Lawrence County membership volunteered their time at the seventh annual “Lights on the River” in Lisbon on December 13th. While there, they collected donations of canned goods and cash and helped direct the visitors viewing the displays.

Contributions from the visitors go to about a dozen food pantries throughout the county. In its first six years, the event raised more than $100,000 and contributed approximately 28,000 pounds of food to area pantries.

December 14th saw JeffersonLewis Realtors brave the winds and snows to man some of the Salvation Army kettles in Watertown and LeRay. Members were

helping the Salvation Army reach its goal of $115,000.

As you can see, Realtors do more than just work with buyers and sellers. They live in the communities and give back to the communities too. In addition to these charitable efforts, Realtors work all year volunteering their time and energy with various charities and community organizations. n n n

During the respective holiday parties, the 2017 Board of Directors of each Association was installed. The role of the Board of Directors is to oversee the Association and set overall policy and direction.

The St. Lawrence County Board will be led by Debbie Gilson. Other officers will include Cheryl Yelle (Vice President), Doug Hawkins (Secretary), and Amanda Kingsbury (Treasurer).

Directors will be Gail Abplanalp, Joel Howie, and Richard J. Wood.

Rounding out the Board are Brittany Matott, State Director and Korleen Spilman, Immediate Past President.

Leading the Jefferson-Lewis Board will be Vickie Staie. The rest of the officers will be Alfred Netto (President-Elect), Britt Abbey (Vice President), Mary Adair (Treasurer), Nancy Rome (Recording Secretary), and Lisa Lowe (Corresponding Secretary). Directors include Tyler Lago, Elizabeth Miller, Gwyn Monnat, Cindy Moyer, and Randy Raso.

n LANCE M. EVANS is the executive officer of the Jefferson-Lewis Board of Realtors and the St. Lawrence County Board of Realtors.

Contact him at levans@nnymls.com. His column appears monthly in NNY Business.

R EA L E STATE / TOP TRANSAC T IO N S The following property sales were recorded in the Jefferson County Clerk’s Office in the month of November: $3,828,110: Nov. 10, City of Watertown: No acreage listed, Centennial Apartments, 1010 Washington St., Emma Schley Housing Development Fund Corp., sold to HKBBE Apartments Housing Development Fund Corp., Watertown. $2,764,901: Nov. 10, City of Watertown: No acreage listed, Henry Keep Apartments, 206 State St., Henry Keep Housing Development Fund, Watertown, sold to HKBBE Apartments Corp., Watertown. $2,714,222: Nov. 10, City of Watertown: 0.3 acres, Bugbee Apartments, 105 Washington St., Bugbee Housing Development Found Co. Inc., Watertown, sold to Watertown Family YMCA, Watertown, and HKBBE Apartments Housing Development Fund Corp., Watertown. $1,416,157: Nov. 10, City of Watertown: 0.132 acres, Court St., Brighton Apartments Associates Limited Partnership, Watertown, sold to HKBBE Apartments Housing Development Fund Corp., Watertown. $1,251,835: Nov. 10, City of Watertown: No acreage listed, Franklin St. at Armstrong Place, Olympic Apartments Associates LP, Watertown, sold to HKBBE Apartments Housing Development Fund Corp., Watertown. $624,500: Nov. 21, Town of Brownville: 3.3 acres, Baldwin Road, Homes For Our Troops Inc., Taunton, Mass., sold to Edward B. Guldin and Amanda L. Guldin, Adams Center. $480,000: Village of Clayton: 0.3 acres, Washington Island, Earl Sephton Jr., Clayton, and Thomas E. Sephton, Vestal, sold to Jill D. Denny Trustee for Jill D. Denny Trust, Syracuse. $450,000: Village of Alexandria Bay: 0.41 acres, Sisson St., CD Coffeen LLC, Alexandria Bay, sold to River Hospital Inc., Alexandria Bay. $310,000: Town of Clayton: 1.274 acres, Orchard Ave., Round Island, Richard P. Gilbert and Laura V. Gilbert, Ontario, sold to David B. Kirk, Lunterton, N.J. $305,000: City of Watertown: No acreage listed, State Street, Prime LLC, Alexandria Bay, sold to 1833 State Street LLC, Watertown.

January 2017 | NNY Business

| 27

20 QU E STIONS

AMANDA MORRISON | NNY BUSINESS

A

SAVING A RIVER

long-awaited and much-debated plan to regulate water levels on Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River was adopted by the U.S. and Canadian governments Dec. 8. Clayton’s Save the River was among the groups that pushed for nearly two decades for an updated regulation strategy. We sat down with the organization’s executive director, Lee Willbanks, to talk about the environmental and economic impacts of Plan 2014.

NNYB: What is Plan 2014?

LEE: Actually, it’s pretty simple. It’s just a plan to manage the way water is released or retained by the MosesSaunders dam.

NNYB: Why is the proper regulation of water levels on the St. Lawrence River so vital?

LEE: Well, I think you can see that by going to almost any bay on the river 28 | NNY Business | January 2017

n Plan 2014 seen as major win for St. Lawrence River dwellers

and thinking of where it was before the dam was built and where it is now.

I know a lot people don’t have that perspective, but over the 50-plus years since the dam has been built, we’ve lost approximately 64,000 acres of wetlands throughout the Lake OntarioSt. Lawrence River system. Okay, so what? A 70 percent decline in the northern pike population, a precipitous drop in terns. And all the species that depend on those open marshes that, because we kept water level static, or fairly static, they’ve been just covered in cattails. And so now northern pike that wants to spawn goes and bumps her nose on those cattails and her eggs are released in deeper water and lost.

That’s where we’ve gotten to with the

old plan. We realized, actually many people realized, about 30 years ago, that something was wrong and so this long-term effort started to get to a new plan that made more sense for the river and pretty much all the creatures, up to us, that depend on it being healthy.

NNYB: An updated plan for the regulation of the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario has been called for for more than two decades. What took so long?

LEE: I think it took so long because, one, you have to build a consensus around, is there a problem? You know, maybe the comparison is to some other diseases. It took us a while to realize

2 0 Q U E S T I O NS that something bad was going on and it wasn’t a natural process. I mean, there are natural evolutions to all water bodies, but beginning back in the 1980s biologists, fish biologists and wetland researchers began to realize something was happening. So then you have to build a body of literature and science to study it. I mean, the list of people who have been involved in this effort and contributed is quite large and there were lots of studies. So then you have to engage the political process, because, as you know, it’s an international body, our boundary. So you’ve got two countries, we’ve got lots of interest groups and we’ve got the political processes in both countries that sometime move in different directions. So, about 1999, Louis Slaughter and Congressman McHugh decided there was an issue and appropriated funds for the study through the IJC, the International Joint Commission, which regulates or has jurisdiction over all the boundary waters between the U.S. and Canada. And so, that process took time. And then you have to build a consensus and you have to get people on board. There’s 15 years of study and consultation and then there were public hearings. Quite frankly, the IJC got it wrong the first time, in 2008, when they proposed a plan that was worse than what we even had before then. So they had to go back to the drawing board. So I mean, you’re just talking about trying to move a tremendous number of people to the right conclusion and sometimes it’s exhausting and takes a long time.

NNYB: You’ve referred to the previous regulation strategy as “a slow-moving ecological disaster.” What does that mean?

LEE: I think it means what I referred to before. The gradual, almost frog-inthe-boiling pot of water kind of loss.

Again, it started in the 1960s really, early 60s, when 1958-D, go figure on the naming, came into effect and we began to hold the water levels in a very tight range and it just took years and years for that to have the effect it did, of causing the wetlands to lose the open water portions, the muskrat population to collapse. But yeah, it was definitely slow and creeping and every year we waited we’ve added to that 64,000 acre figure, so it takes a while sometimes for those changes to be recognized.

The Lee Willbanks file AGE: 58 JOB: Executive director, Save the River, Clayton; Upper St. Lawrence Riverkeeper FAMILY: Wife Judy Drabicki; two adult children Dana and Jordan HOMETOWN: Limerick the last 29+ years; grew up in Birmingham, AL; born in Coos Bay, Oregon.

EDUCATION: Bachelor of Arts in Urban Studies from University of Alabama at Birmingham; Masters in Public Administration from the Maxwell School, Syracuse University; Law degree from Syracuse University College of Law. CAREER: Circuit Rider for the Tug Hill Commission; Municipal and Land Use attorney in private practice; Environmental Counsel for independent power producer; Youth Development Educator at Cornell Cooperative Extension; Chief of Staff to State Senator Darrel Aubertine.

BEST BOOK YOU’VE READ AND WOULD RECOMMEND: “Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln” by Doris Kearns Goodwin.

NNYB: American Rivers has placed the St. Lawrence River on its list of the most endangered rivers in the United States. Is the adoption of Plan 2014 going to get the river removed from the list?

LEE: It absolutely will. The amazing thing about the American Rivers designation — and this was the second one for the St. Lawrence River — the first one came back when the IJC was contemplating a plan but had not yet recommended one. So this one came because the plan had been recommended, it was accepted as scientifically correct for the river and yet nothing was happening. It had been referred to the Canadian and U.S. federal governments June 17, 2014.

So in the beginning of 2016 it was like something needs to happen, we have to do something. The American Rivers designation is based on a couple of criterias and one is the kind of damage we’re talking about was being caused to the river. The second is, are you at a point where a policy decision could change that. It was like, absolutely, that’s where we are. So when we asked and talked with them about it, it was essentially a no-brainer. And because of that designation and the way it highlighted the sort of indecisive position both governments were in, I think

we got a lot more traction on the issue and December 8 we got the plan. So, it seems to have worked NNYB: How long will it take for positive changes to the river’s ecosystem, such as the restoration of wetlands, to begin?

LEE: I wish it was immediate, but it took us 50-plus years to get in this mess, it’ll take us a while to get out. I can say that for some of the interests the plan also benefits, like recreational boating, had the plan been in place this year, we would have seen higher waters through the fall. For the nonenvironmental segment of the riverloving public there would have been an immediate payoff. I think for the wetland clearing, you’re still going to see a slow, steady movement, but you know we’ve got to rebuild populations of muskrat, because that’s what helps us clear those wetlands. The anglers won’t see an explosion of northern pike next year. I’m sure they wished they would. You know, we’ll begin to notice, I think fairly immediately, that things are a little different.

NNYB: You talk a lot about the northern pike population, but is the muskie population in the same category? Are they affected by this?

LEE: They are. Their decline was unfortunately dramatically hastened by the introduction of the invasive VHS, Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia, which is still in the population, but doesn’t seem to be wreaking the damage and havoc that it did before. I think because the river ecosystem is very large and complex and has lots of species that are interdependent, when you have something like the water levels issue, and you’ve lost habitat for the top predator, like northern pike, those kind of impacts ripple through.

NNYB: What is the hope for the longterm environmental prospects?

LEE: I would love to to say that, jeez, we can close up shop, we’re done.

But sort of going back to your other question, how did we get here and how long will it take, I think we’re recognizing whether its Flint, Michigan, or places in Africa, heavily industrialized places, you can screw freshwater up in the blink of an eye. Just ask West Virginia, where you had a spill January 2017 | NNY Business

| 29

20 QU E STIONS and the capital city couldn’t drink the water. We continue to find ways to do that to ourselves and then the cleanup always takes so much longer than the screw up. So, I think because people are becoming more aware the longterm prospects are good, but I think we have to stay vigilant and really continue the process of educating people about how you can harm the water that we all rely on.

NNYB: Lana Pollack, chair of the U.S. section of the International Joint Commission, said in April that Plan 2014 was “being held hostage” by the shipping industry, which feared it could result in artificially low water levels.

Are the shippers’ concerns valid?

LEE: First, full disclosure, Save the River has always had a challenged relationship with the shipping industry. I will note that both Terrence Bowles of the Canadian Seaway Corporation and Betty Sutton on the U.S. (St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corp.) side issued statements saying that Plan 2014, as approved on December 8 was good for the environment and good for shipping. So, the shippers did okay NNYB: How about the concerns of residents along the south shore of Lake Ontario, who fear high water levels will lead to shoreline erosion?

LEE: I don’t want to minimize their concerns. I think I’ve said in the past that I get it, people have inherited property, they’ve built. I think there were some false assumptions perhaps, and things municipalities allowed, that come into play. One of the most vocal opponents, a woman who was featured on the first page of the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle, it appeared dire, her house is very near to the water and it looks threatened, but she received five variances from the local government to do that. Perhaps the most offensive one is her septic system is below the mean water line and that’s just wrong. So they’re sort of saying we’re orphans, we killed our parents, now we need some help. There’s also been a consistent overstating of what the plan does.

Depending on which forum they’re in, it’s either a high-water plan, which I get it — were it a high-water plan — because the river used to go much higher before the dam, that would be frightening, or if they’re talking to rec boaters or sailors, it’s a low-water plan and 30 | NNY Business | January 2017

they’re afraid people can’t get into the tributaries. But, point of fact, it really is that the highest the plan allows is less than a tennis ball in height and that’s as we know it on a dynamic system.

So, to say that it’s going to be feet higher and consistently higher is just wrong. So, I’m sympathetic, I understand the intensity because their homes are there, they’ve made an investment, but they’re living next to a very dynamic system and there’s no plan in the world that can be adopted that’s going to stop the wind from blowing, the rain from coming down and from the water occasionally coming up on shore. You build, you plan for that.

NNYB: How might the plan affect recreational boating?

LEE: Most years, we’ll have a slightly longer season, which has been one of the principal complaints along the river, that come the end of August, something magic happened and suddenly they had to release water at the dam. You know, in any given summer or spring, it’s going to be a complex interplay of what we have for snow cover that’s melting, how quickly it’s coming in, what the ice cover was, evaporation, and then the contribution from the upper lakes into Lake Ontario.

But it appears, the way the plan is modeled out will have occasional lows once every 10 or 11 years, but most summers it’ll be like we have it now.

We’ve had lows in the past and we’ve had highs in the past.

NNYB: Should the plan result in benefits to the area’s tourism?

LEE: Well, we certainly think so.

Worldwide, people are realizing just the value of healthy water or healthy waterways. It’s hard to put a dollar value on it, particularly in an area like ours, which is rural and smaller and doesn’t have a huge built up yearround tourist infrastructure, But we do know that we have some of the best fishing in the world. We know that with the 1000 Islands, kayaking — boating is a huge draw — when you’re named the best archipelago in the U.S. that means something. So, will we see the sudden South Florida-style tourism industry? I don’t think so, but what you’ll see is a shoring up of the sort of small-scale tourism economy that we have and you’ll see people coming to it to bird, to fish, to boat, whatever.

NNYB: Why should people who live far inland, outside the St. Lawrence River basin, care about the river’s regulation?

LEE: We were talking about this earlier. Twenty percent of the world’s fresh water flows by my door. We’re sitting on top of a very finite resource.

We effectively collected over 36,000 signatures (in support of Plan 2014). I would be hard-pressed to find 36,000 people between Massena and Cape Vincent. There are a lot of people who signed on to support Plan 2014 who come, not just from New York State, but from Pennsylvania and other places because they do want to come here and enjoy and appreciate fresh water.

This got the attention of people in other parts of the Great Lakes because these kinds of issues are just going to keep coming. This was a peaceful resolution of a boundary issue between two great nations, protecting a significant source of fresh water. So, if you don’t care about that, I don’t know what you would.

NNYB: What’s the plan to get Plan 2014 in front of the people that are coming to this area to visit, to experience the beauty of what we have here?

Is there a plan in place to help educate those that are visiting us?

LEE: I think what we’ll do, we’ll continue to do what we do, which is more to raise awareness just on the river, the value of the river as a freshwater habitat. We talked and wanted to support indigenous species, the muskie, the northern pike, those kind of things that draw people. We’ve had a problem even before the plan was adopted, and when you try to talk to people about something called Plan 2014, if you can’t grab it in a sentence or two they start to glaze over and it’s very complex. So, I think more than focus on a bunch of charts and graphs that say, if the water’s at this point and it’s raining this much, Lake Ontario will do this, we’ll just continue to reach kids and adults about how great it is to have this water body right here and available, and the need to protect it.

NNYB: There are perennial calls to “optimize,” or extend the Seaway shipping season, possibly to include winter navigation. What are the environmental concerns regarding this?

LEE: It’s a fight we’ve had and it’s a

2 0 Q U E S T I O NS fight that Save the River won, prior, but as we all know, these things can pop up again. I do take note that Canada just approved some new ice breakers for use on the Great Lakes and on the northern seas. Fortunately, I think economics worked to our advantage here because it’s costly. The river, hasn’t frozen really well in the last 10 years, and then we had two years where you could have probably built a highway across it. Shippers who are leaving Europe want certainty; they want to know that they can get through. So I think that sort of keeps it from going.

It doesn’t seem to make a lot of sense economically, we know it doesn’t make sense environmentally, so we hope common sense will prevail.

placed and appropriately sited. We have consistently said that we do have a firm position: that if you’re going to build projects in an area, particularly an area with the intensity and number they’ve proposed along the eastern shore of Lake Ontario, down the river, you can’t do it just project by project.

There’s a mechanism in New York State, called the generic environmental impact statement and that’s where you can look at multiple projects or multiple phases of a single project as if they were all done at one time. To us, that’s the only way to accurately assess what

sewage dump, one of the most offensive, obscene assaults on fresh water in this area in a long time. And while the river doesn’t flow backwards — it wasn’t going to impact us — it is the St. Lawrence River and for us, it stands for the billions of gallons that are being dumped from Lake Superior all the way down. That stuff eventually goes past our door.

NNYB: How did a municipal law attorney from the south become a champion of the St. Lawrence River ecosystem?

NNYB: The Vessel Incidental Discharge Act, which would have resulted in the U.S. Coast Guard, not the Environmental Protection Agency, having primary control over ballast water discharge regulations, was recently struck from the 2017 National Defense Authorization Act. Does that settle the issue?

LEE: No. I guess that means that I’m going to employed for life. There’s every prospect of that bill coming back and it is absolutely horrible. The Coast Guard does a fantastic job. They are responsible for the safety and efficacy of all of the equipment on a ship and they do that really well. I mean, they understand what the rigors of sea-faring life are on equipment. They are not an environmental agency, they don’t set standards and that’s why we have an EPA. If you take them out of it you lose that expertise. I think you would see immediate problems arising from that. So, yeah, it’ll come back and we’ll keep fighting.

NNYB: Save the River has neither come out in support of or in opposition to several wind projects proposed in the St. Lawrence River region. Does the agency anticipate taking a stance?

LEE: The last big project that was going through the Article 10 process, we did actually intervene, we were part of the PSC service list and when the company submitted their application we tore it apart. Part of that was because it was just horrible. I think we are supportive in general of energy that doesn’t come from carbon. However, we think it should be appropriately

AMANDA MORRISON / NNY BUSINESS Lee Willbanks sits in his office in downtown Clayton at the Save the River office. From here, Willbanks can view boat traffic and river conditions.

is going to happen if you build these out.

NNYB: With the adoption of Plan 2014, what’s the next big challenge for Save the River?

LEE: I think the next big challenge for Save the River is to, one, rebuild our energy. It was a long, tiring fight. Our mission statement is to preserve, protect and restore, so that’s a big challenge. I think we talked about oil shipments, we talked about invasives, but we didn’t talk about the other success we had recently, which is microbeads. Two and half years ago, almost three years ago we introduced the issue to the river community at our winter conference. Last December, the United States banned the introduction of microbeads — on a time scale, but it’s done. And Canada just did it.

You know we spoke about the Montreal

LEE: Very honestly, I think serendipity.

At any point in my previous, in the resume before Save the River, I probably wasn’t ready for this job. I’ve got to tell you, it’s the greatest job ever. The title of Riverkeeper is tremendous. It’s a little humbling, but I do think it was sort of a progression.

NNYB: Do you ever get out on the river just for fun?

LEE: Not as much as I ‘d like. I will say this, anytime I get out on the river, it’s for fun. I’m trying to think if I’ve ever had an unfun day on the river and I can’t think of one. You can be on a boat and close your eyes and be anywhere in the world and envision just total peace and quiet.

January 2017 | NNY Business

| 31

N O N P RO FIT S T O D AY

Nurturing and encouraging a community

O

ver the last several years, the Northern New York Community Foundation has continually looked for ways to extend its reach and scope to fulfill the true spirit and mission by which it was established in 1929. Moving beyond being a transactional grantmaker is a path we believe we should pursue, as making investments through grants and scholarships is really only part of the story. Those efforts have been well received, as the diversity and number of charitable funds and legacies administered on behalf of individuals, families, organizations and businesses has grown significantly. Also during this time, our service area extended to include St. Lawrence County, whose residents have responded positively, with many establishing permanent funds and others supporting the Foundation’s overall efforts to enhance the region’s quality of life. The experience of philanthropy should not belong to any one group or demographic and the options for expressing it should be as diverse as the community itself.

The Foundation, through the support of its donors, past and present, has been able to implement new programs which encourage and nurture community awareness, leadership and instill the interest and desire to give back across generations. This is most evident in our Youth Philanthropy and Next Generation LEAD Councils. We have also have been steadfast in our belief that one of the most important responsibilities we have is to be a resource to nonprofit organizations that provide both basic services and quality of life enhancements by offering additional tools to ensure

32 | NNY Business | January 2017

their ability to fulfill their mission for the long term. This has included helping build partnership endowments that serve to Rande Richardson both diversify revenue streams in good times and bad and also provide donors with a heightened level of structure and long-term stewardship when they choose to support the charitable interests they are most passionate about. This is powerful!

Because of these things, the Community Foundation reached a crossroads. Over a year ago, thoughtful discussion began regarding how to accommodate the increased reach and scope and ensure that we were properly positioned to continue to diversify the way we serve our community, the donors who support it and the organizations we are able to invest in. Moving simply to provide more office space was not reason nor visionary enough.

We continually ask organizations we serve to find ways to minimize duplication, find efficiencies of scale, and look for opportunities to share and collaborate when it makes sense. We needed to do the same. We looked inward and asked: “is this an opportunity for us to do better, in a more collaborative way, doing more, for our community, its organizations, donors and all those we strive to serve?”

The alignment of stars and months of due diligence provided even greater clarity on how to best enter the next chapter.

Following the lead of other community foundations across the state and country, we embraced the philanthropy center concept as a way to: • Create a sustainable model that will enable sharing and consolidation of resources (space, services, staff, ideas, technology) with other nonprofits in a synergistic setting while reducing operational costs for up to seven charitable organizations under one roof, including our own.

• Provide convening and collaboration space for nonprofit organizations and community groups.

• Provide additional space to expand and grow Youth Philanthropy, Next Generation LEAD and educational internship programs.

• Offer additional ways to tangibly celebrate, recognize and honor north country philanthropy, and those who have made, and are making, it possible, with the hope that others will be moved and inspired to perpetuate it.

The new space that we will share with others must be for and about our community. It will open the door to convenings and leadership opportunities and serve as a catalyst for specific and broad philanthropic activities.

The third floor will provide organizations the ability to develop a shared services model. All will benefit from the synergy of being united in a facility that promotes new thinking in regards to all ways that allow more charitable resources to go further. The Center itself will be both efficient and sustainable, as up to seven organin RANDE 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 every other month in NNY Business.

N O N P RO FIT S T O D AY zations (including the Community Foundation) share one home.

With the help of Purcell Construction, an historically significant building was preserved, restored and returned to community use, enhancing the other investments being made in the Downtown area. With over $2 million raised, the community expressed its will to make it happen, sharing the vision for the space and

its potential to broadly support all charitable organizations with contributions of various sizes.

In the end, the Philanthropy Center is a tool and will only be as valuable as the way it is used.

We take this responsibility seriously. We hope you share with us in celebrating this next chapter in community philanthropy that this collaborative venture represents, while honoring the past, celebrat-

ing the present and preparing for the future. It is the natural next step in realizing and building upon the same bold vision and mission that the founders of your community foundation had 88 years ago that you continue to embrace, and that enhances the quality of life for us, and those who will come after us.

oung Professional Speed Dating

Jan. 17, 2017 • 6:00pm Savory Downtown

Meet Up Group

Feb. 1, 2017 • 5:00 pm Jeff. Co. Historical Society

Check It Out

COMPASSIONATE PERSONALIZED QUALITY CARE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Hospice of Jefferson County delivers compassionate, personalized, high-quality care. Hospice is committed to comfort, privacy, dignity and control.

SERVICES AVAILABLE IN YOUR HOME OR AT THE HOSPICE RESIDENCE

January 2017 | NNY Business

| 33

B USI N E SS TECH BYTES

The perspectives of virtual reality shifting

W

elcome to 2017, I hope simulated CG VR can function very similarly to your holidays were bright reality; it can a 360° video if it is prerendered or you and merry. Did you hapbe created with can interact with it in real time like you pen to get caught up in real-world, do with a video game. There is also the Virtual Reality (VR) computer a third type of VR, which is a hybrid craze this holiday season? From TV generated or between 360° video and CG VR. This is commercials to the Samsung giveaway, a hybrid of very common in movies today, where virtual reality (VR) headsets had hoped both types of many times an immersive experience to be under everyone’s tree. Tractica, content. Virtual is created using a blend of real world a firm that specializes in technology reality (VR) is and computer generated content types. market research, had predicted “a total designed to Some of the most exciting virtual reality of 15.9 million virtual reality headsets replicate an content being created today is in this would be shipped in 2016, which broke environment class.

Jill Van Hoesen down to five million PC headsets, 1.7 you interact Is all this reality clear as mud? Hold million for the PS4, and 9.2 million for with. This is on as there is one more technology that mobile devices”. Where some of you why this technology has gained traction is also gaining popularity and that is may have dropped upwards of $1500 and the content viewing hardware, you augmented reality (AR). Augmented for a headset, many probably got what know those head-mounted displays reality is a live, direct or indirect view of they paid for if they thought the bar(HMDs), were all the rage during the a physical, real-world environment where gain came in the $5 to $50 dollar range elements are augmented by computerat your local drugstore. Prices aside, generated sensory inputs like video, “Augmented reality is a live, direct or if you bought the marketing message graphics, audio or even GPS data. coupled with the enormous and vary- indirect view of a physical, real-world Augmented reality overlays content ing availability you were part of the environment where elements are on the real world environment but it number predicted above. Sales teams part of it. The real-world conaugmented by computer-generated istentnotand were pleased with the results but are the computer generated conalready looking to what is expected sensory inputs like video, graphics, tent cannot interact; a good example to happen over the remainder of this of this is Google Glass. audio or even GPS data.” decade. Major growth in this technol Though hot this Christmas seaogy is foreseen as more virtual realityson, virtual reality (VR) will quickly enabled content becomes available 2016 Christmas season. become a thing of the distant past, as lessening the reliance on the specific But the technology does not stop at more and more augmented reality (AR) virtual reality (VR) headsets and PC virtual reality (VR); there is also 360° products are quickly being developed. components available on the market video. These are videos of real world These developments and the continued today. Tractica believes revenue from scenes that have been recorded in every sprawl of the Internet of Things (IoT) both virtual reality hardware and content direction at the same time. This gives at home and in the business world, will will reach almost $22 billion worldwide you, the viewer with the head-mounted continue to impact not only the informaby 2020, compared with only $110 mildisplay (HMD), the option to control tion technology industry but also your lion in 2014. the viewing direction during playday-to-day life.

Are still wondering what virtual real- back. This type of virtual reality (VR) n JILL VAN HOESEN is chief information ity (VR) is? Virtual reality (VR) is the content is only real world. This differs officer for Johnson Newspaper Corp. and a techno generic term for an immersive from computer-generated VR (CG VR) 25-year IT veteran. Contact her at jvanhoexperience. These experiences can be which is virtual reality (VR) content esen@wdt.net. Her column appears monthly immersive multimedia or computerthat is completely computer-generated. in NNY Business.

34 | NNY Business | January 2017

AG RIBU S I NE S S

Economics and agriculture in the future

I

couldn’t find a fortune teller with a crystal ball so I called two people who have a good grasp on what expectations are in the dairy industry for the coming year. They are members of the informal cadre of people I turn to for guidance on what is happening in agriculture. Ron Robbins is an owner of North Harbor Dairy Farm near Sackets Harbor, a 1,000-cow dairy operation.

Ron’s family owns Old McDonald’s Farm, an agricultural educational and entertainment destination. Ron has served on a variety of state, regional and national organizations and was the state executive director of USDA Farm Service Agency for New York for a number of years.

Bruce Krupke is the executive vice president of Northeast Dairy Foods Association based in Syracuse, serving dairy processors across eight states in the northeastern United States. Bruce also serves on many state regional and national committees. Both Bruce and Ron do a good job of keeping their finger on the pulse of the dairy industry.

Dairy farmers have been suffering through very difficult times for the past two years. The price they are paid for their milk, measured in units of one hundred pounds of milk shipped, or hundredweights (cwt), has been well below the cost of production. The average cost of production in Northern New York tends to run at $18 per hundredweight, or one hundred pounds of milk shipped.

Prices have dipped as low as $14 per hundredweight over the last two years.

At $14, if the price stayed that low the entire year, a 500-cow dairy with each cow producing an average of 90 pounds of milk per day per cow would lose approximately $657,000 for the year. That is a significant loss.

Mr. Robbins indicates that it is looking like prices will remain below cost

of production until halfway through 2017.

Why? According to Ron there is a tremendous supply of milk and milk products on the market. Even though demand is strong for dairy products, Jay Matteson the low milk prices over the last two years allowed manufacturers to build a tremendous inventory of products that now has to work its way out of the system. Ron indicates that even though U.S. production continues to be “on a tear” with cow numbers increasing and production per cow moving higher, world production is coming down. That could be very beneficial to U.S. dairy prices paid to the farmer. Mr. Robbins believes the last six months of 2017 will hopefully see farm gate prices finally cross the profitable threshold. Unfortunately, it will take many months for farms to recoup the losses they’ve incurred through this low price cycle.

Bruce Krupke indicates a similar trend, anticipating prices to gradually rise into 2017. Mr. Krupke heavily emphasized the importance of the world market for U.S. products. “This is where our future lies” Mr. Krupke said. World dairy prices are rising enough to bring parity with U.S. dairy prices allowing our industry to become competitive. Bruce indicated that we would benefit most if we could achieve a good dairy trade situation with our neighbor to our north. Canada is putting heavy tariffs on ultra-filtered milk products that are hurting two dairy plants in New York, one in Batavia and one in Cayuga County.

Bruce indicates concern that the situation will “back up” milk supply in the state.

I also asked both gentlemen about expectations for the impacts of the Trump administration on agriculture. Mr. Robbins said right now there is mixed expectations about President Trump. President Trump’s pro-business tendencies are welcomed in agriculture. The last several years of intense regulatory burden, rapidly increasing cost of business due to federal policies and heavily increasing tax burdens are expected to ease and that will be very welcome. Ron said there is a nervous anticipation within the industry at the same time. Agriculture, including the dairy industry, is heavily impacted by foreign trade. There is concern about the unknowns of the new president’s trade policies. Much work is being done behind the scenes to help the administration better appreciate the importance of trade to agriculture and our farms.

Bruce Krupke shared a very positive outlook for the business policies of President Trump. Mr. Krupke indicated he believes that the administration will be very business friendly and that should generate a positive outlook for dairy manufacturers. Bruce hopes that the president will improve our dairy trade opportunities with Canada which will especially benefit New York’s dairy industry.

Let’s hope that the expectations of both men are correct. Our dairy farmers need a light at the end of the tunnel. Prices have been too low for too long. If we can improve the business climate for our farms and manufacturers, the dairy industry can thrive. Should our business climate improve, perhaps more dairy or food manufacturing opportunities will come along. n JAY M. MATTESON is agricultural coordinator for the Jefferson County Local Development Corp. Contact him at coordinator@comefarmwithus.com.

January 2017 | NNY Business

| 35

WATERTOWN

DA I LY T I M E S

BRING MORE BUSINESS TO YOUR DOOR

Let us help create more traffic to your door.

Our experienced sales staff can assist you in effectively marketing your business.

Call The Times Advertising Department at an office near you:

Watertown 315-661-2310 Gouverneur 315-661-2511 Ogdensburg 315-393-1003 Massena 315-769-2451 Canton/Potsdam 315-661-2512

D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. 135 Keyes Avenue, Watertown, New York

315-782-4910

(315) 782-4910 • 1-800-772-4201 • Fax: (315) 785-8248 www.dlcalarco.com • francee@dlcalarco.com

Locally Owned and Operated ~ Mobile Shreds Onsite ~ Fast, Safe & Secure.

Call to set up free estimate or schedule service ~ Servicing Jefferson, Lewis, Oswego, St. Lawrence and parts of Franklin and Essex Counties ~ WE PROVIDE RELIABLE, TIMELY SERVICE, AND STAND BEHIND THAT. 36 | NNY Business | January 2017

E N T RE P RE N E U R’S E D G E

Take Action Everyday “Your life will never improve unless you start making daily improvements.” – Lewis Howes

I

’m a quote geek. I always have been. When I feel like the world is crashing down around me, I look for a quote that seems to fit exactly what I need to know in that very moment. Sometimes that quote shows itself to me.

My hope is that Lewis Howes’ quote just did that for you.

There are so many of us that have wants and desires but let those wants and desires sit on a shelf collecting dust because we don’t know what to do with them. We don’t know how to get to them. We may think they’re impossible to achieve or too hard to begin.

And you’re right. It may hard to begin. Which leads me to quote number two: “If we wait until we’re ready, we’ll be waiting for the rest of our lives.” – Lemony Snicket Very few people that start on the path to success know what they’re doing. It’s true. But it doesn’t matter to them because they know the answers will be revealed to them along the way.

They understand that taking action every day is the only way to live life. It’s the only way to

learn. There is no physical manual or blueprint that tells you exactly what you need to do to get started. But there is a soulful blueJoleene Moody print. And it lies within you.

You know what you want. So take a tiny step toward it today.

No matter what it is that you want to chase, there are a plethora of things you can do to start manifesting it right now.

Here is a list of things you can do to get started, no matter what it is you’re after: n Read a book. nAsk someone what book you should read if you don’t know. nAsk a question. nAsk a question of someone who is doing what you want to do. nWatch movies.

nAsk more questions. nRead more books. nBE CURIOUS.

When I wanted to be a public speaker, I took the time to ask a speaker that was visiting a local school what she did to get started.

She told me to buy a book on her website and begin there. She also invited me out to lunch and gave me an hour of her time to tell me more.

Those nuggets of information were pure gold. They got me started and took me to the next level. Once I reached that second level, I asked more questions of more people. Up and up I went.

So ask questions. Read books.

And don’t rush the process. But do begin now, before your dream gets so covered in dust, you won’t be able to find it. Which leads me to one final quote for you:

“Even if you are on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there.” - Will Rogers Better stand up and take action.

Your dream is waiting for you. n JOLEENE MOODY is a professional keynote speaker, author, and freelance writer who lives in Oswego County with her husband and daughter.

Contact her at joleenemoody.com. Her column appears monthly in NNY Business.

nRead some more. nTake a workshop.

ROBERT R. STURTZ, PRESIDENT

SLACK ISO 9001:2000

CHEMICAL COMPANY INC. Since 1944 Industrial - Municipal - Warehousing & Packaging Distributor

Products: Ice Melters • Dairy Chemicals • Pool Chemicals • Industrial Chemicals • Water Treatment Chemicals • Plating Chemicals • Waste Treatment Chemicals • Paper Chemicals • And so much more...

Equipment: Polymer Feed Systems • Tanks • Pumps • Totes • Melting Pumps • Drums • Test Kits

Serving the Northeastern United States

UL

CARTHAGE, CASTORLAND, and SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY • 1-800-479-0430

January 2017 | NNY Business

| 37

COMMUNITY / BUSINESS CALENDAR

ALEXANDRIA BAY FRIDAY, FEB. 3 TO SUNDAY, FEB. 5 Labatts-1000 Islands Pond Hockey Festival, Clayton Marina. This is a three-on-three hockey tournament with a maximum of four players per team. $400 entry fee. Family-friendly event includes youth skating and hockey and on-site food and drinks.

Six co-ed divisions with eight teams per group. Divisions include: 21-plus open, 21-plus recreational, 30-plus recreational, 40-plus open, 40-plus recreational. Registration closes Monday, Jan. 18. Mail checks payable to River Hockey Classic to: River Hockey Classic, LLC, P.O. Box 401, Clayton, NY 13624. Information: riverhockeyclassic.com or email: riverhockeyclassic@yahoo.com.

CARTHAGE SATURDAY, FEB. 11 18th annual Winterfest, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Carthage Park, Outer State Street. Event will be held with or without snow and includes pet photo contest, scavenger hunt, cardboard sled races, family games, raffles, food, drinks and more. Information: Carthage Area Chamber of Commerce, 493-3590 or carthageny.info

CLAYTON FRIDAY, JAN. 27 TO SUNDAY, JAN. 29 Labatts-1000 Islands Pond Hockey Festival, Clayton Marina. This is a three-on-three hockey tournament with a maximum of four players per team. $400 entry fee. Family-friendly event includes youth skating and hockey and on-site food and drinks.

Six co-ed divisions with eight teams per group. Divisions include: 21-plus open, 21-plus recreational, 30-plus recreational, 40-plus open, 40-plus recreational. Registration closes Monday, Jan. 18. Mail checks payable to River Hockey Classic to: River Hockey Classic, LLC, P.O. Box 401, Clayton,

38 | NNY Business | January 2017

NY 13624. Information: riverhockeyclassic.com or email: riverhockeyclassic@yahoo.com.

guest pass; at the door individual tickets, $20; at the door, family tickets $45. Info: lewiscountyhistory.org or 376-8957.

SATURDAY, FEB. 4

FRIDAY, FEB. 10 THROUGH SUNDAY, FEB. 12

Save The River’s 27th annual Upper St. Lawrence Riverkeeper Winter Environmental Conference, 9:30 to 4 p.m., 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel, 200 Riverside Drive. Event brings together more than 200 policymakers, scientists, elected officials, and residents to discuss the most critical issues facing the river. Registration and coffee scheduled for 9:30 a.m.; conference, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; cocktail reception with cash bar, 4 p.m. Cost: $50, includes coffee, lunch and cocktail reception with light hors d’oeuvers at reception. RSVP to Save The River

by Friday, Jan. 27, Information: Save The River, savetheriver.org or 6862010. Registration form at: blog.savetheriver.org/wp-content/uploads/ Website-Invite.pdf

THURSDAY, FEB. 16 TO SATURDAY, FEB. 18 Fire & Ice Extravaganza, 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel, 200 Riverside Drive. The charity event offers fireworks, music, food, drinks and an outdoor ice bar. This year’s charity recipient is Troopers Assisting Troops.

Information: 1000 Islands Clayton Area Chamber of Commerce, 517 Riverside Drive, 686-3771, info@1000islands-clayton.com or 1000islands-clayton.com.

LOWVILLE SATURDAY, JAN. 28 THROUGH SATURDAY, APRIL 8 2017 Black River Valley Concert Series, 7:30 p.m., Lewis County Historical Society, Blue Room, 7552 State St. Featuring Gwen Tracy, Matrix Duo, My Sweet Patootie, Loren and Mark, Jay Ungar and Molly Mason, and Potsdam Pitches. Cost: Individual season tickets, $110, includes one

McCauley Mountain Winter Carnival, Main Street, Old Forge. Parade Friday followed by an ice skating party. On Saturday, the corination of the King and Queen will be held at McCauley Mountain, followed by torchlight skiing, dare-devil jumpers & fireworks. After the fireworks, the community is invited to a dance in the chalet. Please check back for a full schedule of events. Cost: Free. Info: oldforgeny.com

FRIDAY, FEB. 17 THROUGH SATURDAY, FEB. 18 Annual Pink Ribbon Riders Snow Run, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The snow run is a two day event open to both men and women, including a welcome partym snowmobile rides, awards banquet and more. Info: pinkribbonriders.com/wp/13th-new-york-snowrun

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Chili Bowl Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., VIEW. Homemade meat & vegetarian chili, stews and soups prepared by local restaurants, will be served in handmade bowls from the Pottery Workshop at View as well as artists who deliver their bowls to View from towns nearby and as far away as Ithaca and Syracuse. The potters will be making many styles of bowls featuring a variety of surface decorations. Info: 369-3411 or viewarts. org/events/upcoming-events/11thannual-chili-bowl-luncheon

OGDENSBURG TUESDAY, FEB. 7 Wine, Beer, Cheese, Chocolate and Artisan Festival, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Frederic Remington Art Museum, 303

WATERTOWN WEDNESDAY, JAN. 18 January Business After Hours, 5 to 7 p.m., Commons at Fort Drum, Euphrates River Valley Road, Fort Drum. Join the Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce for a night of networking with local businesses.

Hosted by AUSA and FDRLO. Cost: $10 Pre-registered members; $12 unregistered members at the door; $15 non-members. Info: Greater Watertown North Country Chamber of Commerce, 788-4400 or watertownny.com.

THURSDAY, JAN. 19 2017 Not-for-profit Conference, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., Hilton Garden Inn, 1290 Arsenal St., Watertown.

The conference will help organizations navigate the challenges they are faced with. Information and learn about New Accounting Rules for NFPs, Payroll overtime rules, Uniform Guidance: Updating your policies and procedures, B&C Technology Services- Managed IT Services, and Grant Readiness- How to Improve for a Great 2017. Cost: Free to attend.

Info: Greater Watertown North Country Chamber of Commerce, 7884400 or watertownny.com.

FRIDAY, JAN. 27 THROUGH SATURDAY, JAN. 28 Snowtown Film Festival is a two-day film festival organized to foster appreciation for the art of film-making and to encourage the development of independently produced films that celebrate our legendary Northern New York winters. The Snowtown Film Festival offers official film selections, and a juried film competition in downtown Watertown. Cost: $25 VIP; $10 general admission. Information/register:

info@snowtownfilmfestival.com snowtownfilm festival.com.

or

THURSDAY, FEB. 2 64th annual Israel A. Shapiro Award Citizenship award dinner, 6 to 9 p.m., Hilton Garden Inn, 1290 Arsenal St., Watertown. Dinner and award ceremony for 2016 Israel A. Shapiro recipient Lt. Col. (Ret.) Gilbert H. Pearsall, Jr. Cost: $50 per person; $450 corporate table of 8. Info: Greater Watertown North Country Chamber of Commerce, 788-4400 or watertownny.com.

SATURDAY, FEB. 4 TO TUESDAY, FEB. 26 Snowtown USA, a 16-day festival with events around the city. Planned events include opening and closing ceremonies skating under the stars, a winter softball tournament, laser tag and a karaoke night. There will be a Thompson Park Day and an Alex T. Duffy Fairgrounds Day. Information: Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce, 788-4400 or chamber@watertownny.com.

TUESDAY, FEB. 7 Transitions for Families Workshop, 3 to 5 p.m., Watertown High School, NY Large Group Instruction Room, 1335 Washington St., Watertown.

This workshop focuses on three essential considerations for students with disabilities to achieve successful transition and career development.

This workshop will provide information about the transition process, importance of collaboration with schools, and options available after high school. Cost: Free. Info: North Country Parent Assistance Center, 785-9440.

sculptures and an ice bar provided

by Club NO 9. Tickets available for purchase at the museum. Cost: $40.

Info: Jordan Walker, director@jeffersoncountyhistory.org.

TUESDAY, MARCH 28 North Country PTAC Matchmaker 2017, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Hilton Garden Inn, 1290 Arsenal St., Watertown. The 2017 North Country Matchmaker is an opportunity to meet with prime contractors and representatives from local, state and federal goverment agencies in a series of one-on-one appointments. This annual event provides valuable networking opportunities with dozens of exhibitors and goverment contracting resources. Both government agencies and prime contractors are looking for qualified firms to buy products and services required to fulfill government procurement needs. Cost: $20 pre-registered; $25 at the door. Info: Greater Watertown North Country Chamber of Commerce, 788-4400 or watertownny.com.

FRIDAY, JAN. 27 2017 Economic Forecast, 8:30 to 11 a.m., Ramada Inn, 21000 State Route 3, Watertown. This annual event brings together influential speakers to share their perspective and insight on a broad scope of local/regional/national/global issues, such as political information, health insurance reform, strategic planning and an economic forecast of the region. Cost: $10 members; $15 non-members. Info: Greater Watertown North Country Chamber of Commerce, 788-4400 or watertownny.com.

COMMUNITY / BUSINESS CALENDAR

Washington St., Ogdensburg. Enjoy locally produced wine, beer, cheese and other goods. Cost: $5. Info: fredericremington.org/wine-beer-cheesechocolate-artisan-festival

SATURDAY, FEB. 11 Fire & Ice, 7 to 11 p.m., The Paddock Mansion, 228 Washington St., Watertown. Join the Jefferson County Historical Society for an evening event with entertainment, hors d’oevres, ice

 GOT A BUSINESS EVENT or calendar item? Email nnybusiness@wdt.net. Deadline is the 10th of each month for the following month’s issue. Visit us on Facebook at Facebook.com/NNYBusiness or nnybizmag.com for events calendar updates.

January 2017 | NNY Business

| 39

B USI N E SS S CENE NNY Business 6th annual 20 Under 40 Award luncheon

From left, Shane Simser, The Morgia Group at Hight Tower Advisors, receives his award from John B. Johnson, publisher of the Watertown Daily Times and NNY Business.

HOLLY BONAME PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

From left, AmberLee Clement, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Jeffesron County, receives her award from John B. Johnson, publisher of the Watertown Daily Times and NNY Business. On Dec. 10, NNY Business Magazine presented the 6th annual 20 Under 40 luncheon at the Hilton Garden Inn, Watertown, to recognize 20 of Northern New York’s emerging leaders under age 40.

40 | NNY Business | January 2017

From left, Kyle Hayes, Gram’s Diner, receives his award from John B. Johnson, publisher of the Watertown Daily Times and NNY Business.

HOLLY BONAME PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

From left, Jake Moser, Moser’s Maple, LLC, receives his award from John B. Johnson, publisher of the Watertown Daily Times and NNY Business.

BU SIN E SS S C E NE NNY Business 6th annual 20 Under 40 Award luncheon

From left, Korin Scheible, Mental Health Association of Jefferson County and her daughter Kathleen Scheible.

From left, David Adsit, Kinney Drugs, and his wife Andrea Adsit.

HOLLY BONAME PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

From left, Melissa Schmitt, Samaritan Medical Center Wound Care Center, and her husband Stuart Schmitt.

HOLLY BONAME PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

From left, Reginald “Reg” Schweitzer, and wife Hartley Bonisteel Schweitzer, Development Authority of the North Country.

OUTER WASHINGTON ST. WATERTOWN NY 315-788-6022

Let's Go Places

WaiteToyota.com

January 2017 | NNY Business

| 41

B USI N E SS S CENE 22nd annual Children’s Christmas Gift & Fund Drive

HOLLY BONAME PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

From left, Rick and Michelle Gefell, Mickey G. Lehman, BCA Architects & Engineers Sponsored by BCA Architects & Engineers and the Paul G. and Kathleen E. Carr Foundation, the 22nd annual Children’s Christmas Gift & Fund Drive was held at the Paddock Arcade, Watertown.

42 | NNY Business | January 2017

HOLLY BONAME PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

From left, Paul G. and Kathleen E. Carr of the Paul G. and Kathleen E. Carr Foundation.

BU SIN E SS S C E NE Clayton Chamber of Commerce Business With a Twist at 1000 Islands Museum

From left, Carol and Dan Thomas, Angel Rock Cottages, Cape Vincent.

From left, William Smith, WWTI ABC50, Watertown, Dan Mills, Prudential Investment, Clayton.

HOLLY BONAME PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

HOLLY BONAME PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

From left, Bobby and Kelly Cantwell, Cantwell & Associates, Clayton, The Clayton Chamber of Commerce held its December Business With A Twist at the 1000 Islands Museum on Dec. 15.

k

From left, Jenna Kraeger, Saint Lawrence Spirits, Clayton, Doreen and Jody Garrett, owners of Luck Star Ranch, Chaumont and Saint Lawrence Spirits.

Shovel Ready Lots Available in the City Center Industrial Park

k

CONTACT WLDC TODAY - GROW YOUR BUSINESS TOMORROW! 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 Watertown Local Development Corporation (WLDC) 82 Public Square Watertown, NY 13601

For help with expanding or relocating your business to the City of Watertown

Phone: 315.786.3494 Fax: 315.786.3495 email: don@watertownldc.com January 2017 | NNY Business

| 43

B U SI N E SS FEATURE

Judging Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show Watertown breeder top judge after after years of involvement

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANTHONY MACHIA Thomas H. Bradley III, talks to Flirt, his Border Terrier, at his home in Watertown.

E

BY NORA MACHIA | NNY BUSINESS

arlier this year, it was announced that Thomas H. Bradley III,, a lifelong dog breeder and owner in Watertown, would be selecting the “Best in Show” winner at the prestigious dog show’s final competition on Feb. 14 in Madison Square Garden.

As the head judge, Mr. Bradley will be making the final choice among seven dogs that other judges will have pared down as the best in their breed group from approximately 2,800 entrants. His job will be to pick the one dog that comes as close to “canine perfection” as possible.

Mr. Bradley has a long-time involvement with the Westminster Kennel Club. He joined the club in 1975 and has served as the club’s communications director and club chairman. Mr. Bradley was a co-breeder to a national title

44 | NNY Business | January 2017

winning dog (from the sporting group) in the 1989 competition, a Pointer known as Ch. Luftnase Albelarm’s Bee’s Knees.

He is also a founding member of a charitable organization, Take the Lead, which provides financial support to people involved in the show dog competition circuit who are dealing with life-threatening illnesses or emergency disasters.

In a recent interview, Mr. Bradley offered some colorful history and interesting facts about how America’s oldest dog show operates, and discussed a separate event that gives the public an opportunity to see some of the fourlegged competitors “up close and personal.”

BU SIN E SS F E AT UR E WHY IS IT CALLED THE WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB DOG SHOW?

IS THE HEAD JUDGE ALLOWED TO SEE THE DOGS BEFORE THEY ARE PRESENTED IN THE RING FOR THE “BEST OF SHOW” FINAL COMPETITION?

It’s named after a former hotel in Manhattan, where a group of hunters often met to brag about the accomplishments of their sporting dogs. These men eventually decided the best way to compare their favorite canines would be to organize an official dog show. They formed the Westminster Kennel Club to organize the event, and chose to name their club after the Westminster Hotel, their favorite meeting place.

Mr. Bradley will not attend any preliminary competitions prior to the final judging, nor will he mingle with any owners or handlers. He will not see the final seven competing dogs until the evening of the finals, when he will be picked up by a driver at his hotel and transported to Madison Square Garden to select the winner.

WHEN WAS THE FIRST SHOW, AND HOW MANY DOGS WERE ENTERED?

More than 1,200 dogs competed in the first show held in 1877 at Gilmore’s Garden, the site of the present-day Madison Square Garden. That first show was supposed to last three days, but a fourth day was added because it had generated such a large amount of interest. The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show remains the longest continuously held dog show in the United States.

HOW DOES THE “MEET AND COMPETE” EVENT WORK?

The “Meet” part of the event allows the public the opportunity to speak with representatives of different “Breed Clubs” who will have booths set up and be available to discuss the “pros and cons” of a particular breed. There will be dogs on display at these booths as well (but ask first before petting).

The “Compete” part refers to Westminster’s agility trial, which is separate from the actual dog show itself. During this competition, the dogs are required to be on display at an assigned area, or “bench” throughout the day, except when competing, being groomed, or taking care of business. The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is one of only a handful which offers a “benched” dog show event. This allows people a chance to see the various competing dogs “up close” and also speak with their breeders.

HOW MUCH MONEY DOES THE “BEST IN SHOW” WINNER RECEIVE?

There is no cash prize for the top dog.

The owner is presented with the prestigious Silver Cup and gets the honor of having won the highest award in the most popular dog show in the country. The “Best in Show” dog becomes an instant celebrity, and typically makes the rounds of the morning news shows the following day, along with other televised appearances. In some cases, sponsorships may

IS THE SHOW JUST FOR PUREBRED DOGS?

Thomas H. Bradley III, holds a photograph of himself judging a previous Westminster Kennel Club Show.

also be offered to the winning dog, and it will also gain a reputation for having high breeding potential.

WHAT ARE THE RULES OF THE COMPETITION?

The competition will start with approximately 2,800 dogs representing more than 200 breeds. They will initially compete against other dogs of the same breed, and the winners of the Best of Breeds competitions advance to the next stage – Group Competition. The show has seven specific groups: Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Sporting, Non-Sporting and Herding.

One dog will be selected as the winner from each of the seven groups. These seven dogs will advance to the final competition, where they will be presented to Mr. Bradley, who will make the final “Best in Show” choice. The show follows the rules of the American Kennel Club.

HOW WILL THE SEVEN FINALISTS BE JUDGED?

These seven dogs will not actually be judged against each other, but rather, they will be judged individually as to how close they meet the “standard of perfection” for their particular breed. There are written descriptions of the standards, which include body structure (for example, the neck length and tail carriage), along with features such the color of their coats and eyes. They will also be assessed on their performance that day, and in the mind of the judge, how close he can envision the dog doing the job it was bred to do.

The American Kennel Club does allow mixed breeds (loving referred to as “mutts” by some owners) into the agility course competition, where they leap over hurdles and zig zag through obstacles as fast as possible at Piers 92/94. They are also allowed to compete in the obedience portion of the show at Madison Square Garden. But only purebreds are allowed to compete in the traditional “conformation” portion of the show and to qualify for the “Best in Show” award.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO ENTER, AND HOW DOES A DOG QUALIFY FOR THE SHOW?

The entry fee for the Westminster Dog Show is $100. In order to compete in the show, a dog needs to have earned a major win of three, four or five points in previous dog show competitions. It takes 15 points to be designated as an AKC Champion, so both non-champion and champion classes are offered. Organizers also send out invitations to the top five dogs of each breed to ensure national ranked dogs will be entered into the competition.

HAS ANYONE EVER QUESTIONED THE FINAL DECISION?

In the 140-year history of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, there has never been an objection to the dog selected by the head judge as “Best in Show.”

The Westminster Kennel Club’s “Meet and Compete” event will be held in conjunction with the American Kennel Club on Feb. 11, 2017 inside Piers 92/94 at West 55th Street in New York City. The Westminster Dog Show’s preliminary and final competitions will be held Feb. 13 and 14 (daytime at Piers 92/94 and evenings at Madison Square Garden). Tickets for all events are available to purchase online. For more information, visit www.westminsterkennelclub.org

January 2017 | NNY Business

| 45

Delivery Available to Fort Drum 315-782-5226 freepowerbill@yahoo.com

watertownnymattress.com

865 Coffeen St., Watertown, NY (Across from the Fairgrounds)

126 Bellew Avenue, Watertown

315-788-0805

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME

www.docschonfield.com

Participating With United Concordia, Cigna, Delta Dental, Guardian, Metlife, NYS Teamsters, United Healthcare PPO and United Healthcare Community (Family Health Plus, Child Health Plus & Medicaid)

The Genuine. The Original.

Overhead Door Company of Watertown 25223 NYS Route 3, Watertown, New York

(315) 788-4390 www.ohdwatertown.com Watertown’s Oldest - and Newest - Irish Pub!

Open Daily at 11:00AM • Sunday at Noon

Family owned and operated since 1978 Happy Hour .......Monday-Friday 4-7pm

Gourmet Sandwiches, Pizza, Wings, Steaks, Chicken, Soups and Salads 852 COFFEEN ST., WATERTOWN • 315-782-7335

46 | NNY Business | January 2017

• Guinness On Tap! • Harp On Tap! • Offering Daily Specials!

• Take-Out Available!

849 Lawrence Street, Watertown, NY 782-6888 Serving Lunch & Dinner Monday-Thursday 11:00am to 10:00pm Friday & Saturday 11:00am to 11:00pm

January 2017 | NNY Business

| 47

BusIness

www.nnybizmag.com

260 Washington St. Watertown, NY 13601

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED