NNY Business September 2011 by NNY Business

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Building sector sees uptick, signs of recovery page 28

September 2011

n 20 Questions with Patrick Donegan Page 30

Plus:

n Biz Tech n NNY Snapshot n Business Scene n Real Estate

World-wide reach Region grows ties to foreign markets

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Northern New Yorkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premier Business Monthly Vol. 1 Issue 10 | www.nnybusiness.net

NNY Business | September 2011

September 2011 | NNY Business

C o n tr i b u t o r s

BusIness

www.nnybusiness.net

Publishers

John B. Johnson Jr. Harold B. Johnson II Howard Kelly is executive director of the Capital Corridor. He offers an inside look at his organization’s advocacy for U.S.-Canada trade and the importance of trade corridors. (p. 33)

Peter J. Whitmore is president and CEO of the Greater Watertown North Country Chamber of Commerce. He writes about the region’s many business connections to foreign markets. (p. 35)

Jay Matteson is the agricultural coordinator for the Jefferson County Agricultural Development Corp. He writes about the use of social media tools on the farm. (p. 36)

Sarah O’Connell is an advisor for the New York State Small Business Development Center at JCC. She writes about the need for businesses to have a disaster preparedness plan. (p. 38)

General Manager John B. Johnson

Executive Editor Bert Gault

Managing Editor Robert D. Gorman

Magazine Editor

Kenneth J. Eysaman

Editorial Assistant Kyle R. Hayes

Advertising Director Karen Romeo

Rande Richardson is executive director of the Northern New York Community Foundation. He urges north country nonprofits to challenge the status quo or risk their own survival. (p. 34)

Jill VanHoesen is chief information officer for Johnson Newspapers and a 25-year IT veteran. She writes about Quick Response Codes and how businesses can effectively use them in their media mix. (p. 37)

Lance M. Evans is executive officer for the Jefferson-Lewis and St. Lawrence County Board of Realtors. He writes about how to become a licensed real estate appraiser. (p. 27)

Lenka P. Walldroff is curator of collections for the Jefferson County Historical Museum. She writes about 20th century north country photographer and businessman Herbert R. Huested. (p. 48)

Advertising Specialists

Clarissa Collins, Katie Nelson

Circulation Director Cindy Werner

Photography

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

Ad Graphics, Design

Rick Gaskin, Julia Keegan, Brian Mitchell, Heather O’Driscoll, Scott Smith, Todd Soules Nancy Madsen is a Johnson Newspapers staff writer. In our cover story, she looks at the region’s ties to foreign markets. In real estate, she reviews construction activity in Watertown and Jefferson County. (p. 14, 28)

Norah Machia is a veteran Watertown Daily Times reporter who lives in Watertown. She examines the Jefferson County Public Health Agency Travel Vaccine Program and visits Woodruff Newsstand. (p. 21, 24)

Andrea Pedrick is a freelance writer and former television reporter who lives in Dexter. She visits Paula Biazzo, owner of Nana Rose Unique Gifts and Home Décor in Adams. (p. 25)

Justin Sorensen is a Johnson Newspapers staff photographer. For this month’s cover photo, he illustrates the world-wide reach of north country companies that have ties to foreign markets. (p. 1)

MARKETPLACE A.G. Netto Realty …........ 29 Allen’s Liquor & Wine ….. 21 Ameriprise Financial …... 17 Beardsley Design …........ 49 Bella’s Bistro ...............….. 42 Bradley’s Surplus …......... 18 Carthage Federal Savings and Loan .......….. 6 Cavallario’s Cucina ….... 47 Christensen Realty …...... 29 CITEC Manufacturing ….... 9 Clarence Henry Coach ... 19 Community Bank ….......... 7 Condino Realty …........... 29 Foy Agency Inc. …......… 21 H&R Block ….................... 17 High Tower Advisors .….. 32

Howard Orthotics …........ 34 Innovative Physical Therapy …........................ 35 JCJDC ….......................... 18 Key Bank ......................….. 2 Lofink Ford Mercury ..….. 44 Lori Gervera Realty …..... 29 Macar’s …....................... 13 NNY Business ….... 40, 46, 51 Northern Federal Credit Union …................ 20 Northwestern Mutual .….. 22 Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority ...........…... 52 Old McDonald’s Farm .… 41 Regional Medical Management ….............. 38

NNY Business | September 2011

SeaComm Federal Credit Union …................. 33 Slack Chemical Co. .….. 36 Spring Drive ….................. 37 St. Lawrence Federal Credit Union ..............….. 43 T.F. Wright & Sons …......... 21 Truesdell’s Furniture ...….. 26 Watertown Daily Times …....................... 25, 45 Watertown Local Development Corp. …... 27 Watertown Savings Bank …............................. 16 Westelcom ….................. 49 WWTI-50 …......................... 3

NNY Business (ISSN 2159-6115), formerly Absolutely Business magazine, is published monthly by Johnson Newspaper Corp., 260 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601. Copyright 2010, Johnson Newspaper Corp. All material submitted to NNY Business becomes property of Johnson Newspaper Corp., publishers of the Watertown Daily Times, and will not be returned.

Subscription Rates 12 issues are $15 a year for Watertown Daily Times and affiliate newspaper subscribers and $25 a year for non-subscribers. Call 315-782-1000 for delivery. Submissions Send all editorial correspondence to keysaman@wdt.net Advertising For advertising rates and information in Jefferson and Lewis counties, e-mail ccollins@wdt.net In St. Lawrence County, e-mail knelson@ogd.com Printed with pride in U.S.A. at Vanguard Printing LLC, Ithaca, N.Y. Please recycle this magazine.

>> Inside SEPTEMBER 2011

23 21

Cover

25 28

FeatureS

14 GLOBE TROTTING

21 OUNCE OF PREVENTION

ST. LAWRENCE COUNTY

23 FILLING A VOID

North country businesses are extending their brand across the world as more firms turn to foreign markets.

More north country businesses have been turning to county public health agencis to prep for overseas travel.

Two women have partnered to bring a newsstand — and fine TUTORING SESSION At Clarkson’s Reh cigars — to Watertown’s Public Square. Center for Entrepreneurship, students work to solve real problems for local businesses. It’s all PUTTING DOWN ROOTS After she part of the Fresh Ideas for Real Entrepreneurs nixed a plan to move her decor shop to Clayton, program that kicked off earlier this year. one woman is happy to call South Jeff home.

REAL ESTATE

HISTORY

48 PICTURE-PERFECT

BUILDING BOOM? A steady pace of construction in the north country just might be turning a corner and picking up.

With camera in hand, Herbert R. Huested captured many aspects of life in early Jefferson County.

September 2011 | NNY Business

Three Full Service Locations...

NNY Business | September 2011

INTERVIEW

30 BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE

When Patrick M. Donegan was in law school, he learned how to tackle complex problems. Now a real estate developer and hotelier, he says the best way for government to create jobs is to get out of the way.

COLUMNS GUEST ESSAY

ECONOMICALLY SPEAKING 33

AGRI-BUSINESS

NONPROFITS TODAY

BUSINESS TECH BYTES

COMMERCE CORNER

SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS 38

DEPARTMENTS Editor’s note

CALENDAR

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

BUSINESS SCENE

ECONOMIC SNAPSHOT

DINING GUIDE

BUSINESS Briefcase

BUSINESS HISTORY

REAL ESTATE ROUNDUP

WHAT’S HAPPENING HERE?

ON THE COVER North country businesses are turning to a mindnumbing number of foreign countries to succeed in a global economy. Our photo staff illustrates the region’s ties to foreign markets much like airline routes stretching across the planet. {Justin Sorensen photo illustration}

September 2011 | NNY Business

E D I T O R ’ S NO T E

ne thing that continuously amazes me about the north country is the depth of our business community. It’s a fact that I never truly appreciated as a child growing up in Northern New York. And while we can’t claim bragging rights like an Atlanta or Chicago as home to dozens of multi-national firms with thousands of employees, we do boast some impressive companies with an international range that touches nearly every continent on the planet. In this month’s cover story, business writer Nancy Madsen tells the incredible story of the north country’s world-wide reach, visiting with firms like Adams Center-based Hi-Lite Markings, which expects to grow its international business unit from 15 percent to 50 percent within the next five years. Like other north country businesses that have turned to foreign markets in search of new opportunities, HiKen Eysaman Lite is seeing the effort pay off. As the economies of our region, state and nation continue their slow climbs from recession, stories like Hi-Lite’s offer encouragement to others that success can be found through innovation, commitment and hard work. Perhaps more impressive than the business that Northern New York firms are doing overseas is their commitment to stay anchored in the north country. Indeed, it’s no secret that New York isn’t the easiest state in which to base a business, but for Hi-Lite, Car-Freshner and others, the willingness to stay true to their roots is another story that never ceases to amaze. n

BUSINESS SCENE — In this month’s Scene section, which begins on page 41, you’ll find 55 faces from nearly 40 different north country businesses and organizations. Early last month, we joined Lewis County General Hospital for its 80th birthday bash. (Since my mother and all three of my sisters were born there, it was an event I couldn’t miss.) In an age of uncertainty for many health care institutions, Lowville’s Lewis County General has managed to remain an independent community hospital since it opened its doors in 1931. Later in the month, we joined some wild animals for a little fun after dark at the New York State Zoo at Thompson Park for its third annual Bobcats, Bears and Brews event that benefitted the zoo. With food provided by Cam’s Pizzeria, Tilted Kilt, April’s Cake Shop, the Boathouse, Bob Evans and Texas Roadhouse and thirstquenching suds poured by AJ Missert, Doldo Brothers, Eagle Beverage, Middle Ages Brewery and the Hops

NNY Business | September 2011

Spot, the evening was a resounding success. Topping off the dog days of summer, we dropped by Highland Meadows Golf Club for the Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce business after hours. I encourage all who’ve never been out there to tee off for some great golf. The staff at Highland Meadows was very welcoming and put on a fun event. Thanks again to Carl A. and Shelley J. Lofberg, whose Papa John’s Pizza and Arby’s restaurants provided catering. n

CONGRATULATIONS — This month, the Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce will present Lisa A. Weber, CEO of Timeless Frames, Timeless Decor and Timeless Expressions, with the Athena Award. Mrs. Weber will receive the award at the chamber’s fall dinner on Sept. 15 at Ryan’s Lookout, Henderson. When we sat down with Mrs. Weber in March for a 20 Questions interview, she told us the company she purchased in 1999 with seven employees and less than $750,000 in annual revenue was on track to gross $28 million this year with a staff of more than 200. No doubt the Athena Award is very well deserved. It is with some sadness that this month we bid farewell to Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Peter J. Whitmore. Having worked with Peter since I came home to the north country last fall, I can honestly say that I will sincerely miss his contribution. He is the first person with whom I shared details of this magazine when we started planning our launch in October. During his tenure, Peter contributed much to the organizational success of the chamber. Now that he’s writing the next chapter in his life, I look forward continuing a valued friendship that was born from a professional partnership. With Peter’s departure comes the arrival this month of Lynn M. Pietroski as the new GWNC chamber executive. I am looking forward to renewing a friendship with Lynn that goes back more than 20 years to when we were students at Immaculate Heart Central High School. Her move to the chamber after more than a decade at the Children’s Home is one more example of how the north country boasts a cadre of talent that makes it such a great place. Yours in business,

P E O P L E ON T H E M O V E Duffany marks 30 years

Steven P. Duffany celebrated 30 years in the insurance business last month. Mr. Duffany started with Mutual of Omaha in August 1981 as an agent, and left in May 1987 as district manager. He started his own agency as a broker representing a wide Duffany range of companies, which he continues today. Before locating in the Paddock Arcade he was in the Chamber of Commerce Building on Public Square next to the Franklin Building. He lives in Watertown with his wife, Juanita. Together they have three grown children, Buddy, Steven and Rachel. Contact him at 788-1885.

TLS employee recognized

Mark Waterhouse, a case manager for Transitional Living Services, Watertown, was recently recognized by New York State’s Office of Family and Children Services for his work with the Protective Services for Adults Delivery Network. Mr. Waterhouse Waterhouse works with individuals with mental health issues and was nominated for the award by the Jefferson County Department of Social Services. “Mark has helped PSA work with some of our more challenging clients. I have never seen him lose his composure,” said Sharon Cahill, Jefferson County Adult and

Protective Services supervisor. “Clients who work with Mark seem to understand that he is a reliable and caring worker. He is a real asset to the community.” Mr. Waterhouse has worked for Transitional Living Services since March 2000. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from SUNY Brockport. He lives in Carthage with his wife and children. Transitional Living Services of Northern New York has served the north country since 1977, providing residential services for the mentally ill who are unable to live independently.

Named AmeriCU adviser

AmeriCU Services has named Mark Decilles a member financial adviser. Mr. Decilles is responsible for assisting members with all aspects of financial planning, including retirement and college planning. He can also help with Decilles personal insurance reviews. Mr. Decilles has been with AmeriCU for close to five years. AmeriCU Credit Union is a not-forprofit financial cooperative serving eight counties in Central and Northern New York.

Named museum director

David M. Kahn has been named executive director of the Adirondack Museum in Blue Mountain Lake. He will begin Sept. 5. A native New Yorker, Mr. Kahn will be coming to the Adirondack Park from

Got business milestones? n Share your business milestones with NNY

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

San Diego, where he is executive director of the San Diego History Center. Prior to that, he was executive director of the Brooklyn Historical Society, executive director of the Connecticut Historical Society in Hartford, and director of the Louisiana State Museum in Kahn New Orleans. Mr. Kahn earned both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in art history from Columbia University, New York City.

Hired by Extension

Vanessa McKinney has been hired by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Jefferson County as the regional coordinator for the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s North Country Energy $mart Communities Program. McKinney This program offers local, convenient, community-based access to NYSERDA’s energy-efficiency and research and development programs.

Please see People, page 26

September 2011 | NNY Business

ECON SNAPSHOT

NNY

Economic indicators Average per-gallon milk price paid to N.Y. dairy farmers July ’11 $1.88 June ’11 $1.82 July ’10 $1.42

32.4%

(Percent gains and losses are over 12 months)

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

Source: NYS Department of Agriculture

559,495 in July 2011 468,357 in June 2011 541,401 in July 2010

Average NNY price for gallon of regular unleaded gas

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

July ’11 $3.82 June ’11 $3.86 July ’10 $2.79

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

36.9%

Average NNY price for gallon of home heating oil July ’11 $3.73 June ’11 $3.75 July ’10 $2.84

31.3%

3.3%

$0.95 on July 31, 2011 $0.96 on June 29, 2011 $1.03 on July 28, 2010

7.8%

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

July ’11 $3.19 June ’11 $3.23 July ’10 $2.71

90,000 in July 2011 92,200 in June 2011 89,800 in July 2010

17.7%

0.22%

Source: NYS Energy Research and Development Authority

Source: NYS Department of Labor

Jefferson-Lewis Board of Realtors single-family home sales

Passengers at Watertown International Airport

109, median price $147,000 in July 2011 87, median price $148,400 in June 2011 73, median price $105,000 in July 2010

720 in-bound and out-bound in July 2011 599 in-bound and out-bound in June 2011 384 in-bound and out-bound in July 2010

49% Sales

40%

87.5%

Price

Source: Jefferson-Lewis Board of Realtors Inc.

Source: Jefferson County Board of Legislators

Jefferson County unemployment July 11

8.7%

June 11

8.9%

May 11

9.1%

April 11

Mar. 11

Feb. 11

Jan. 11

Dec. 10

10.0% 10.9% 11.6 % 10.3 % 10.0%

Nov. 10 Oct. 10 Sep. 10 Aug. 10 July 10

11.8%

9.0% 8.6% 8.3% 8.8%

Source: New York State Department of Labor (Not seasonally adjusted) Note: Due to updates in some “Econ. Snapshot” categories, numbers may differ from previously published prior month and year figures.

10 NNYBusiness Business| |April September 8 ||NNY 2011 2011

NNY

Economic indicators St. Lawrence county unemployment rates

Lewis county unemployment rates

10.5% in July 2011 10.7% in June 2011 10.8% in July 2010

8.4% in July 2011 8.7% in June 2011 8.0% in July 2010

0.4

0.3

Percentage points

Percentage point

Source: NYS Department of Labor (Not seasonally adjusted)

St. Lawrence Board of Realtors single-family home sales

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

48, median price $74,250 in July 2011 60, median price $78,000 in June 2011 45, median price $72,500 in July 2010

1,835 in July 2011 1,857 in June 2011 1,700 in July 2010

Sales

2.4%

7.9%

Price

Source: St. Lawrence Board of Realtors Inc.

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

Real estate sales

Turn to page 29 for a recent three-day look at real estate transactions in St. Lawrence County.

The following sales were recorded in the Jefferson County clerkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office:

town, sold to Lloyd E. Bedford III, Phenix City, Ala., $238,500

Aug. 4

n Boyd Street, Robert L. Johnson, Adams, sold to Joseph P. Watts and Sara B. Watts, Evans Mills, $214,000

Watertown city sales

n 0.38 acre, Bugbee Drive, Edward N. Powell, Watertown, sold to Joshua A. Adams and Sarah Adams, Columbus, Ga., $215,000

Aug. 3

n South Hamilton Street, Heidi M. Robinson Carr, Watertown, sold to Kevin J. Kelly, Watertown $149,500

Aug. 2

n 135 Francis St., Richard N. Degon and Carol A. Degon, Watertown, sold to Beneficial Homeowner Service Corporation, Brandon, Fla. $129,000

Aug. 1

n 0.08 acre, 132 Fairmont Ave., Marinelle E. Reese, Kernersville, N.C., sold to Benjamin R. Wiest, Watertown, $106,500

July 29

n 929 Arsenal St., Arsenal Street Fee Holding, LLC, Rochester, sold to Cole, W.G., Watertown N.Y., LLC, Phoenix, Ariz., $5,702,000

July 20

n 935 Gotham St., Christopher R. Saunders, Geneseo, sold to Christopher M. Van Brocklin, Watertown, $102,000

July 14

n Unit 1, Building D, Fairway West Townhouses, Michele S. Doherty, Watertown, and Shelley S. Thompson, Watertown, trustees, The Speno Family Trust, sold to Francine R. Petersen, Watertown $154,000 n Two parcels, 910 Gotham St., Calvin B. Rudd and Sharon B. Rudd, Rodman, sold to Scott M. Foley, Watertown $89,000

July 13

n Davidson Street, Donald J. Wilder, Watertown, sold to Juan A. Ramos, Fort Drum $135,000

n 0.138 acre, North Indiana Avenue, Daniel L. Ramirez and Amanda M. Ramirez, Watertown, sold to Jesse E. Short, Fort Sill, Okla. $135,000

n 916 Riggs Ave., Tammy Jo Parks, Watertown, executor, estate of Timothy S. Parks, late of Watertown, sold to James Warner, Watertown, $28,000

July 7

n Two parcels, 0.006 acre, no acreage given, Broadway Avenue West, Timothy L. Biondolillo and Susan B. Biondolillo, Watertown, sold to Atala U. Barker-Callender and Winslow N. Callender, Clarksville, Tenn., $234,000

July 6

July 19

n 308 Butterfield Ave., Sarah K. Conley, executor, will of Helen A. Blake, late of Watertown, sold to Laurie A. Regan, Watertown, $107,000

July 18

n Green Street, Bradley W. Amstutz and Julie D. Amstutz, Water-

transactions

6.7%

n Winslow Street, Matthew P. Flynn, Watertown, sold to Shawn D. McCormick, Watertown $147,000

n 0.23 acre, 712 Sherman St., Samara L. Pitre and Dewey M. Mathis, both of Watertown, sold to Garrett D. Ruud, Evans Mills $210,000

$8,095,500 City real estate sales recorded over a 29-day period, July 6-Aug. 3, 2011

September April2011 2011||NNY NNYBusiness Business||11 9

G u e s t E s s ay

Leverage cross-border partnerships

hen we envision the north country, there can be a tendency to identify the region as ending at the St. Lawrence River, our border with Canada. This view of our region’s boundaries excludes Southern Ontario and Kingston and limits the potential for economic development. The fact is that our neighbors in Canada can be an important economic driver for the entire north country, and our region can be equally important to Kingston and Southern Ontario. This year, along with Kingston Mayor Mark Gerretsen, I launched an effort to strengthen the ties between our two communities. We have been holding a series of meetings with key business and community leaders from both sides of the border. Participants realize the value of focusing on getting to know each other’s governmental structures and processes, differing cultures, current economic drivers and even our histories, including the fact that our region’s ancestors are often one in the same. Speakers at these meetings have provided enlightening presentations, which have resulted in a focus on several areas that are important to improving cross-border relations. The group has identified a variety of areas to address more comprehensively, such as health care, transportation, regional marketing, media relations and border and trade issues, just to name a few. Already there is collaborative work being done on War of 1812 200th anniversary commemorative events, as well as exploring whether we should leverage each other’s medical assets by integrating them into our respective planning efforts, such as emergency air medical transport between the two countries. How does this help to increase trade and export, one might ask? As our respective communities begin to meld into a

more unified region we can identify and address obstacles to economic development, as well as areas that offer unique and globally competitive opAddie Russell portunities. Our crossborder region can play an integral role in advocating for changes in federal policies to enhance trade and economic activ-

12 |

Practical steps to build our regional identity include examining inter-modal transportation issues and opportunities. The latest announcement of American Airlines flights from Watertown to Chicago is very important to travelers from Southern Ontario, as the new flights are less expensive and at an airport conveniently located less than an hour from their home. This asset has implications not just for the travel needs of our region’s residents, but also for existing businesses that need to be connected to their markets and other operations, as well as the potential to bring more visitors to our historical and natural attractions. It is our hope that these meetings become an ongoing mechanism for relationship building and issue identification and that the greater Watertown and Kingston communities continue to collaborate to unlock the potential of this cross-border region. I am committed to this process and I know Mayor Gerretsen is as well. We look forward to strengthening our cross-border relations and expect that this initiative will become a model for other communities closely situated along the St. Lawrence River.

Businesses looking to locate in upstate New York should be aware that locating their business in the greater Watertown area means that they are in the greater Kingston area. Canadian firms that Kingston is working to attract should also be aware of the greater Watertown area.

NNY Business | September 2011

ity and leverage economic development programs from both sides of the border to attract investment from around the globe. A key aspect of integrating our communities into a single identifiable region is to alter our marketing plans. As a result of our initial meetings, it has become clear that our respective marketing efforts should be more collaborative and should go beyond tourism marketing. For example, businesses looking to locate in upstate New York should be aware that locating their business in the greater Watertown area also means that they are in the greater Kingston area. Canadian firms that Kingston is working to attract ahould also be aware of the greater Watertown area. As our hospitals attempt to attract topnotch physicians, part of their marketing should mention the fact that the region includes Kingston, a vibrant city with diverse arts and cultural attractions, as well as a teaching hospital. This cross marketing enhances the appeal of the communities on both sides of the border.

n Addie Jenne Russell, D-Theresa, represents the 118th Assembly District, also known as the “River District,” which follows the St. Lawrence River from northeast Lake Ontario to Massena and borders Fort Drum and the Black River to the east. Mrs. Russell was formerly an attorney at Conboy, McKay, Bachman & Kendall, LLP, where she practiced in the areas of trust and estate administration, real estate, guardianships, elder law and estate planning. She was elected to the Assembly in 2009. She is chairwoman of the Assembly’s Subcommittee on Women Veterans and a member of the Committee on Agriculture, the Committee on Corporations, Authorities and Commissions, the Committee on Economic Development, Job Creation, Commerce and Industry, the Committee on Energy, the Subcommittee on Export Trade, the Committee on Local Governments and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. She lives in Theresa with her husband, James, son, Aaron, and daughter, Cora.

BUSIN E SS b r i e f ca s e

From left, Lisa Sergi, Sam Spagnolo, owner, with his grandson, Romano Sergi, and chamber board members Scott Smalling, Rob Bicknell, Dave Crowell and Fred Hanss, Potsdam Village Community Planning Office.

Sergi’s nominated

The Potsdam Chamber of Commerce Town/Gown Committee named Sergi’s Restaurant as a nominee for the Pride in Potsdam award. Sergi’s Restaurant, 10 Market St., was recognized in part for how they have enhanced the exterior of the restaurant with the hanging geranium baskets and the potted shrubs. Owners Sam and Carmela Spagnolo were also recently honored by the Rotary Club of Potsdam with the Service Above Self Award. Sergi’s joins the following seven monthly nominees for the award: Lobster House, Clarkson Inn, Hazen Enterprises (Maxfield’s), Misty Hollow, Little Italy, Eben’s Hearth and TJ Toyota. Four more businesses will be nominated, and one nominee will receive the 2011 Pride in Potsdam award at the chamber’s annual dinner in early November.

Otis wins award

Otis Technology, Lyons Falls, manufacturer of the world’s most advanced gun cleaning systems, is a recipient of the seventh annual Progressive Manufacturing 100 Award.

The Progressive Manufacturing 100 is the most prestigious awards program honoring manufacturing companies that have transformed themselves through the use of information technology. Every year, Managing Automation recognizes 100 ground-breaking manufacturing companies from around the world. This is the second consecutive year Otis has won the award. This year Otis was honored in the operational excellence category; in 2010, Otis was honored in the managing automation category. Otis’s goal of implementing such large scale initiatives is to ultimately achieve operational excellence. Aside from the introduction of an automated storage and retrieval system and ADAM automated vehicles, Otis has immersed itself in companywide lean philosophies and procedures. As a result, Otis has been able to make manufacturing and warehousing operations more efficient, decrease inventory levels, shrink lead times and create optimal flow in the warehouse. Otis was also featured on the April cover of the Modern Materials Handling publication. Otis Technology is a family-operated business that employs 170 people and has won various awards from the government and other agencies for its superior business ethics and high-quality products.

Seaway traffic up

Rising ship traffic on the St. Lawrence Seaway is reason for “cautious optimism” that the economy is continuing to rebound, according to the St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corp. Year-to-date total cargo shipments through July were 17 million metric tons, up 7.3 percent over the same period in 2010 due primarily to demand for bulk materials used in construction, salt, petroleum products and Canadian grain.

Year-to-date salt tonnage increased 46 percent over the same period last year to 1.2 million metric tons as North American cities continued to replenish their reserves for road salting next winter. Year-to-date stone shipments continued strongly at 286,000 metric tons. Iron ore saw a 7.7 percent increase in the month of July to just over one million metric tons. Canadian grain increased by 60 percent in July compared to the same month in 2010, pushing the year-to-date total to 2.7 million metric tons. U.S. grain shipments dropped in July to 85,000 metric tons. Petroleum products saw a surge of 141 percent to 1.5 million metric tons, more than double the 624,000 metric tons transported in 2010. One port that has benefitted from this surge is the Port of Green Bay.

Potsdam Chamber seeks nominations

The Potsdam Chamber of Commerce invites nominations for its annual Commitment to the Community Award, which is presented at the organization’s annual dinner in early November. The award reflects efforts of individuals or organizations that enhance the quality of life in Potsdam. Nominees should provide services to residents or improve the business environment by leaving a positive impact on our community. Such efforts may be voluntary or professional, individual or collective. To nominate a community member or organization, pick up a form at the chamber office, 24 Market St., from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays, or download it from www.potsdamchamber.com. Letters of support, testimonials or press clippings are encouraged. Fax forms to 274-9222, or mail them to the Potsdam Chamber, P.O. Box 717, Potsdam, NY 13676. Deadline is 4 p.m., Oct. 11.

MACAR’S • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Flooring • Lighting

161 Coleman Avenue

www.macarsinteriors.com

Watertown • 788-3732 September 2011 | NNY Business

| 13

C o ver s t o r y

competing in a

global market

By Nancy Madsen | NNY Business writer

When north country residents think international trade, they generally look to their neighbors across the northern border. But businesses from Adams Center to Massena are filling international needs for products and services. Goods from the north country, now more than ever, are travelling all over the globe. And some of the most established companies in the north country continue to thrive because of business in other countries.

Car-Freshner Corp. sends products to 195 countries — so it’s easier to name the countries that don’t have Little Trees available. From its Watertown location in the Jefferson County Corporate Park, the air fresheners have been sent to more than 100 countries, said Linda Frasher, director of international sales, in a statement. “International business is extremely important to CarFreshner Corporation,” she said. “In fact, over the past seven years, our international sales department has grown tremendously. Our team is fluent in various languages and travels all over the world to meet with current and potential customers as well as learn about various cultures, fragrance preferences and retail markets.” Where Little Trees were available only in automotive stores in the past, now they can be found in car washes, pharmacies, bookstores, dry cleaners and even in restaurants in some countries, Ms. Frasher said. Massena’s Alcoa plant also produces sheet aluminum for manufacturers in other countries, such as Italy, Germany, Spain and Mexico. “It’s not a huge amount of our business and it varies based on customer needs,” spokeswoman Laurie A. Marr said.

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NNY Business | September 2011

“We ship some of it to another forging plant in Mexico, where it’s used in the wheel business.” Aluminum is usually trucked to Montreal or New York City to be loaded onto ocean-going vessels, which makes the north country a good location for the Alcoa plant. “Alcoa has done business around the world for a long time,” Ms. Marr said. “At this plant, global growth is viewed as a definite opportunity. Experts predict global aluminum demand will double by 2020, which obviously will present many growth opportunities.” Knowlton Technologies LLC, at 213 Factory St., Watertown, ships about 40 percent of its product overseas, CEO Frederick G. “Rick” Rudmann said. Companies in Italy, China and Austria are among the most common destinations for the plant’s production of specialty paper products. He said the international market is definitely where the growth is. “We try and develop relationships with companies that have international presence and want to grow internationally,” he said. Canton’s Corning Inc. plant produces specialty glass for semi-conductors, aerospace applications and defense

A crew from Adams Center-based Hi-Lite Markings Inc. surveys a job site in Doha, the capital city of Qatar, United Arab Emirates. Hi-Lite has seen its international business grow from nothing three years ago to 15 percent today and expects it to reach as high as 50 percent in the next five years. All of the crew members on the Doha job were from the north country. SPECIAL TO NNY BUSINESS

systems, according to spokesman Joe Dunning. Those components, like Knowlton’s, are shipped to other manufacturers all over the world to be included in a final product. The Clearwater Paper plant in Natural Dam ships deep tone paper, such as red, dark blue and black, to customers in Trinidad, Mexico, Ecuador, Canada, Czech Republic, Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong, said Matthew Van Vleet, director of corporate communication and public affairs. “Natural Dam is one of two mills in North America that manufactures deep-toned tissue rolls,” a factsheet said. “These parent rolls are sold externally or converted internally to produce primarily specialty napkins, commonly used at parties, weddings and other special events.” Products from the plant include oneto four-ply bathroom tissue, pastel and deep-toned napkin stock, diaper carriers, medical gowns and masks, insulating tissue, barber towels and wiper tissue. Other businesses that produce goods that are shipped internationally include North American Tapes, Roth Industries and Morris’s Northstar Hatchery. But it’s not just products that are ex-

ported. Several local companies provide services to entities overseas. Staff members from Stream Global Services, 146 Arsenal St., Watertown, go to other countries to train new customer support professionals and managers. Managers can volunteer for different overseas assignments based on the contracts they work on. From Watertown, Jeffrey Maher, Lisa Finley and Trefor Williams have all gone to Manila in the Philippines to train others. Mr. Maher, a classroom team manager from Watertown, trained customer support professionals on a new account. “I had worked on the contract here and helped based on my experience here,” he said. Ms. Finley and Mr. Williams work on a business-to-business contract in Watertown and trained managers and staff on the particular contract. Mr. Williams, a native of Scotland, also trained staff in Dublin. “You have to adjust to the culture and bridge the culture gap,” said Ms. Finley, an operations team manager from Clayton. “There are different rules and regulations in the Philippines and different social expectations — the working

hours and rules are a lot different. Culturally, they want to agree with you, so I had to learn to phrase questions so they could admit challenges.” For the trio, they trained people who would be receiving calls from the U.S. during nighttime hours here. But they said the culture was far more similar than it was different. “Their television viewing is very similar to the U.S.,” Mr. Maher said. “American Idol is huge.” Mr. Williams, a subject matter expert, said, “I walked into Manila and said, ‘This is like New York City. It’s just like New York.’” Goods were cheap in the Philippines, so Stream employees stayed in apartments or five-star hotels and easily took sightseeing trips. The Stream office had sleeping lounges, a nurse’s office and locals who brought in lunches to sell. Stream Human Resources Manager Michael J. Hill said the new customer service agents go through 12 hours of cultural training to help them prepare to handle calls from Americans. The Watertown call center has sent over a dozen people to the Philippines. Others have gone to the Dominican Republic or domestically. September 2011 | NNY Business

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C o ver s t o r y “The company uses its resources,” he said. Hi-Lite Markings Inc., Adams Center, has seen its international business grow from nothing three years ago to 15 percent today and expects it to reach as high as 50 percent in the next five years. “Our business is unique — we specialize in airfield runways, very specialized maintenance for runways,” President John S. McNeely said. “We get requests for information regularly, mainly through the

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NNY Business | September 2011

website and we’ve made contacts so that people call us from all around the world.” International business quickly became a major focus for the company, owned by Richard C. Jr. and Linda A. McNeely, sons John McNeely and Richard Calvin McNeely III and his wife, Rhonda M. Due to the upcoming Olympics and World Cup competitions in Brazil, that country has become Hi-Lite’s biggest opportunity. “They have a lot of issues with airport

traffic — it’s increasing because of the economy there,” he said. “Our business there is going to trump everywhere else.” Hi-Lite has offices in Ecuador and Canada, on top of some other domestic offices. They’ve had contracts in Panama and Qatar, recently completing work at the new Doha International Airport. International business “is complicated — everything is exponentially more complicated,” Mr. McNeely said. “But if you’re willing to put in the effort,

C o ver s t o r y willing to travel and to deal with red tape, it’s a worthwhile adventure and will pay off.” He advised business people to go to classes on export to navigate the red tape, such as Department of Transportation sessions in Syracuse. The north country location makes traveling to Canada easier, but it’s also more difficult to get to South and Central America, where business is booming. “The difficulty is hiring people who have language experience and a willingness to travel,” Mr. McNeely said. “Still 25 percent of employees are from the north country. The crew in Doha all came from this area.” Trade with our closest neighbor is usually a first foray into international trade for north country businesses. And that’s the focus of a lot of programs for local economic development agencies. The Jefferson County Job Development Corporation and Capital Corridor initiative through the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority have worked to strengthen ties from Washington, D.C. to Ottawa. The two nations’ capitals sit on a direct road connection via Interstate 81 and Highway 401 in Ontario. “We encourage businesses that typically look more south and we’re helping them to look at the 360-degree surroundings,” said David J. Zembiec, deputy CEO of JCJDC. “They can take advantage of business across borders as well — there’s an opportunity for trade back and forth and not just trade, but also business advantage.” The model has changed from trying to entice businesses from Canada to come to the U.S. to helping businesses make connections. “Growth happens where commerce moves, so if we can get it moved, there will be growth on both side of the border,” he said. “For businesses interested in the U.S. market, there is an advantage we can offer them. We have access to the U.S. market and government contracts.” The corporation recently joined the Interactive Manufacturing Innovation Network, a Canadian organization. “We’re the only U.S. member of the group,” he said. “The idea is that they get manufacturers together and

AMANDA MORRISON | NNY BUSINESS

George Biber operates a forklift while loading a truck full of product for shipment in the packaging area at the former Chapin Watermatics. In 2006, India-based Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd. bought Chapin Watermatics and now operates the plant at 740 Water St., Watertown. Since Jain’s purchase, sales have spread from a dozen countries to 40. The Jain family of companies has sales in 160 countries.

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C o ver St o r y help them identify innovative ideas and ways to work with other manufacturers.” Through the network’s eastern Ontario steering council, members of JCJDC can post needs and government contracts on its website, as well as respond to requests on the site. JCJDC will host a network event Sept. 15 at the Rift Camp on Wellesley Island, owned by the bridge authority. “We will let the manufacturers get together, get to know what they can offer each other and lay some groundwork for some of these business relationships,” Mr. Zembiec said. “That often leads to the best type of innovation.” For example, a Canadian manufacturer who wants to reach the U.S. market could ship pieces to this country for assemblage. “There are a lot of opportunities for trade to work both ways,” Mr. Zembiec said. The corporation is updating its website to include a dedicated page for Canadian businesses, using Canadian terms and spellings. “It will roll out more of a red carpet for these Canadian businesses that might be interested in working here,” Mr. Zembiec said. And JCJDC will host workshops for those interested in doing business in the U.S. and for American banking, accounting and legal firms to become more attractive to Canadian businesses. Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd. is comfortable working internationally as it is based in India. It operates the Watertown Jain Irrigation Inc. plant, which was Chapin Watermatics, at 740 Water St. Since Jain bought the Chapin company in 2006, sales have spread from a dozen countries to 40. The Jain family of companies has sales in 160 countries. “We focus mostly on the Americas from here and on Europe and other places from other locations,” said Narinder Gupta, chief operating officer and vice president of international business for Jain. “But all of us are global players — we do not produce these products at other plants, so we supply it from here.” For example, Turkey has been a country offering a lot of expansion possibilities recently. “Particularly for Chapin, the growth is in international markets,” he said. About 80 percent of the product

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JUSTIN SORENSEN | NNY BUSINESS

C o ver s t o r y goes overseas. But that’s where the plant’s location can be a disadvantage. “We pay $1,500 to go to port,” Mr. Gupta said. “It’s hard to compete in the world market and $1,500 makes a difference. The plant’s already located in Watertown, so it makes sense to stay here, because we have a team that knows the product and is very good.” Because of the growing product demand, an expansion is possible, but Mr. Gupta said finding local workers who are committed through the training and are dedicated to the work is difficult. Distance is also a disadvantage for Advanced Blasting Technologies Inc., Watertown, because of shipping costs. “It takes longer for me to ship items from here against being from Syracuse,” said President Julie M. Pecori. “It has to go to another transfer site before Syracuse and that adds time and money onto the shipment.” The company stores much of its goods in Syracuse because it is cheaper there than in Watertown. “We transport things back and forth

Staff members from Stream Global Services, Watertown, travel to other countries to train new customer support professionals and managers. Lisa Finley, left, and Trefor Williams have gone to Manila in the Philippines to train others. SPECIAL TO NNY BUSINESS

because if we have a new customer, we want to get the product to them quickly,” she said. But she said the north country location can also be an asset. “We do something that can be done basically anywhere,” Ms. Pecori said. “Real estate is more economical than it would

be in other areas and I think, being in this area, that the economic development and agencies locally will always call back and try to assist you. In a larger area, you may not be able to get that attention.” Ms. Pecori said many small businesses are afraid to enter international markets because of the time to complete

September 2011 | NNY Business

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C o ver s t o r y On the Web / International firms Advanced Blasting Technology Inc. www.abtechinc.biz Alcoa Inc. www.alcoa.com Capital Corridor www.thecapitalcorridor.com Car-Freshner Corp. www.little-trees.com

Clearwater Paper www.clearwaterpaper.com Corning Inc. www.corning.com Hi-Lite Markings Inc. www.hi-lite.com Knowlton Technologies LLC www.knowlton-co.com

Interactive Manufacturing Innovation Network www.iminonline.ca Jain Irrigation Inc. www.jainirrigationinc.com Jefferson County Job Development Corp. www.jcjdc.net

shipping paperwork and fears of lack of payment. “The paperwork is very cumbersome and there are changes in the regulations quite frequently, but I’ve found that calling the agencies has been very helpful,” she said. “I’ve found that in some countries, it is critical to have the availability to pay with credit card, but almost all of the international accounts, I deal with a wire transfer with a bank.” She suggests using brokers to help clear customs in other countries. About 80 percent of the company’s business is overseas, primarily in South Africa, where gold mines are blasting new areas daily. Advanced Blasting Systems sends non-explosive products to those regions, markets primed by articles in trade journals about the goods, such as the patented RockLock stemming plugs for boreholes. “I had to be in five magazines before I started to get inquiries,” Ms. Pecori said. “The website is crucial.” With a Watertown-based team, CarFreshner is eagerly awaiting the coming American Eagle flights from Watertown International Airport, Dexter, to Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, as that will be an easy connection to the rest of the world. That will ease one challenge of being in the north country for business creation. But Ms. Frasher said that technology makes it easy to do international business from anywhere. “We can easily communicate with all of our customers via email and phone,” she said. “In addition, the Internet provides plenty of information about international markets and many other topics that we need to research.” While Watertown is close to Montreal, which allows for easy shipping to Europe, most shipping to South America goes through Miami, which adds time and cost for shipping. The company also encounters challenges for visitors. “(A) lot of people in other countries think we are in New York City,” Ms. Frasher said. “They will be visiting the city and call to ask for directions by subway or to give to the cab driver. They are always surprised to hear we are a good five-hour car ride away.” n NANCY MADSEN is a Johnson Newspapers staff writer. Contact her at nmadsen@wdt. net or 661-2358.

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R E G ION

Foreign travel requires vaccines By Norah Machia NNY Business

ore north country businesses have been turning to the Jefferson County Public Health Agency to prepare their employees for overseas travel. The agency offers numerous vaccines that are required and/or recommended for those planning to spend time in foreign countries. Public Health officials can also provide travelers with information about health risks in specific countries. When the agency’s Travel Vaccine Program was first established, the majority of people requesting vaccines were planning to travel overseas for missionary work or family vacations, said Patricia M. Barton, public health nurse. That statistic, however, has been changing over the past few years, she said. While the vaccine requests from missionaries have remained fairly stable, the agency has seen a decline in personal travel, but an increase in business travel, she said. “Many people can no longer afford to travel overseas for vacations,” Mrs. Barton said. But some north country businesses appear to be looking at international travel as a way to increase their profits, or at least, stay in business, she said. “I’ve had people tell me they have no choice but to travel overseas to look for work,” Mrs. Barton said. “They say there are fewer opportunities to bid on projects in this country.” Mrs. Barton is prohibited by public health law from disclosing the names of the businesses whose employees have received vaccines at the public health agency. However, she can name the types of north country businesses that have started sending people overseas in recent years. They include construction companies, highway paving companies, engineering firms and computer software businesses. “In the past three years, we have seen more local companies looking outside the country for work,” Mrs. Barton said. Some of the popular destinations for business travelers have been China, India and South Africa, she said. Jefferson County Public Health also provides vaccines for local civilian contractors traveling to Afghanistan and Iraq. The agency still vaccinates many people seeking to do missionary work overseas, primarily in African countries, she said. Approximately 400 vaccines were given to travelers through the program last year. Some needed more than one trip to the

International vaccines JEFFERSON COUNTY: 786-3720; appointments are available daily. ST. LAWRENCE COUNTY: 386-2325 LEWIS COUNTY: 376-5453

agency, due to the number of vaccines they required, she said. “In some cases, we weren’t able to give them all at once,” Mrs. Barton said. The agency provides some of the most common childhood vaccines as booster shots to adult travelers, who may have only received only an initial vaccine in the past. “Measles and polio have started to reoccur in some countries,” she said. There were 692 measles cases in the United States that were reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention between 2001 and 2010, and nearly half (about 44 percent) were determined to have been “imported” from other countries. In the past three years in New York State, 60 percent of the cases of “imported” measles have been identified in people who have traveled to Europe and Asia, according to the state health department. This includes developed countries such as the United Kingdom, France and Belgium. Vaccines for Hepatitis A and B are also routinely given to travelers, Mrs. Barton said. Meningitis and influenza vaccines are recommended as well. The Yellow Fever vaccine is required for travelers to nearly all countries throughout the world, she said. Then there are more specialized vaccines for travelers, depending on their destinations (such as the vaccines for typhoid, cholera and rabies). Jefferson County Public Health charges a one-time $30 consultation fee for its travel vaccine service. The cost of the vaccines themselves can range from $35 to $240 (the highest one is for rabies), but most will average less than $100 each. “We bill no insurance, but people can try to submit a claim directly to their insurance companies if they wish,” Mrs. Barton said. Anyone who wishes to obtain vaccines must call the public health agency in advance to schedule an appointment, preferably four to six weeks prior to their scheduled departure date, she said. n Norah Machia is a freelance writer who lives in Watertown. She is a 20-year veteran journalist and former Watertown Daily Times reporter. Contact her at nemachia@yahoo.com.

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September 2011 | NNY Business

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NNY Business | September 2011

F E AT U R E S

Newsstand fills downtown void n Women partner to offer patrons convenience, fine cigars on Square By Norah Machia

NNY Business

t was just over a year ago that Mary L. Slye and Sarah R. Sugden were looking over a vacant space inside the Woodruff Medical Building and trying to come up with a plan to open a new downtown business. Mrs. Sugden, owner of Watertown Audiology, P.C., had started her practice in the space back in 1999. When her business grew, she moved it to a larger office on the second floor of the Public Square building. Before she had set up her practice, the space in the Woodruff Building had been occupied by Grant’s Drugs for several years. Mrs. Sugden and Mrs. Slye, the manger of the Woodruff Building, had decided there was a void in downtown Watertown. There was no place to buy a bottle of soda, a candy bar, a lottery ticket or a newspaper, they said. “We decided to try a newsstand,” said Mrs. Sugden. “We jumped right into it.” In June 2010, they opened the Woodruff Newsstand, which has a large storefront window facing Public Square’s fountain. Initially, the newsstand was patronized by many of the nearly 70 people who worked in the medical office building, along with the estimated 330 patients who went through the building each day. But since that time, “we’ve had many more people from outside just stopping in here,” said Mrs. Sugden. The business also offers a variety of sandwiches for breakfast and lunch; along with assorted fruit, salads, coffee and drinks. There are some tables set up for those who want to eat inside. The shelves are filled with many grocery and personal care items that a person would find at a convenience store. Newspapers for sale include the Watertown Daily Times, the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times. Ice cream novelties, such as popsicles, are sold year-round.

AMANDA MORRISON | NNY BUSINESS

Mary Slye, left, and Sarah Grimshaw-Sugden own Woodruff Newsstand on Watertown’s Public Square.

Woodruff Newsstand HOURS: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on most Saturdays. STAFF: Two employees — Rebecca Wilson and Dara Roberts. PHONE: 782-2023. ONLINE: www.woodruffnewsstand.com.

But one unique feature of the Woodruff Newsstand is the large assortment of premium fine cigars that are stored and sold from two humidor cabinets, specialized humidity-controlled units. “If the humidity is not controlled, the cigars will dry out,” said Mrs. Slye. The hand-wrapped cigars range in price from approximately $3 to $20 each, depending on the brand. The newsstand carries about 10 different brands, including Acid, Cao, Monte Cristo and Gurkha cigars. They are supplied from a distributor based in Miami, Fla. “You can’t find these types of cigars anywhere in the county,” said Mrs. Slye. “The closest place is Syracuse.” Customers can also purchase accessories, including smaller size humidor boxes, to keep their cigars stored at home. The customers who buy the cigars are a

mix of older and younger men with a few women, along with Fort Drum soldiers and their family members, said Mrs. Slye. In fact, some spouses and significant others will purchase the cigars to send overseas to the deployed soldiers. Others buy them for business clients, as gifts, or just for themselves, she said. “This is a destination store,” Mrs. Slye said. “If you want to buy a fine cigar, you can come here.” It’s also been a sentimental project for Mrs. Slye. Her aunt and uncle, the late Bill Vecchio and his wife, Joan Vecchio, opened “Bill’s Tobacco Shop” in 1969 in the former Hotel Woodruff, which had occupied the same site as the medical building. The former hotel was built more than 100 years ago and was about twice the size of the current building. It was the centerpiece of downtown Watertown for many decades. The hotel closed its doors in 1973, a victim of the urban renewal era. It was taken down by a wrecking ball in 1976. Approximately 20 years later, the new Woodruff Medical Building was constructed. n Norah Machia is a freelance writer who lives in Watertown. She is a 20-year veteran journalist and former Watertown Daily Times reporter. Contact her at nemachia@yahoo.com. September 2011 | NNY Business

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F E AT U R E S

‘Home is where the heart is’ n Nana Rose plants roots in Adams plaza By Andrea Pedrick

NNY Business

aula A. Biazzo will tell you that doing business in Adams means doing business like family. Mrs. Biazzo is the proprietor of Nana Rose Unique Gifts and Home Décor, located in the South Jeff Plaza at 10924 U.S. Route 11. The plaza is an indoor mall that includes South Jefferson Physical Therapy, Northern Federal Credit Union, South Jeff Wine & Liquor and Rod’s Big M supermarket as neighbors to her store. She carries handmade HandCandy mittens and scarves, children’s corduroy jumpers and Anthony Lasagna aprons along with an assortment of furniture and home decor items. Earlier this spring, Mrs. Biazzo thought about closing her shop at the plaza and moving it to the river community of Clayton. She had even started collecting river decor to sell at her Clayton location. That location was half the size of her 1,000-square-foot store in the Adams plaza. She was OK with downsizing and excited about broadening her customer base to include summer residents and tourists. What was unexpected was her lastminute decision to stay in South Jeff Plaza. Over the summer, she increased the square footage of her store at South Jeff Plaza to make room for new collections. How did it get to that point? For Mrs. Biazzo, home is where the heart is. Finding her way home all started with voicing her ideas about moving away to friends and business leaders. Connie A. Elliott was one of the first people to tell her to stay. “We talked about the long drive to Clayton and the cost of gasoline,” Ms. Elliott, president of the South Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, said. “I talked about her regular customers and friends

and told her we would all miss seeing one another — that we were like family.” Ms. Elliott, along with several regular Nana Rose customers, even offered to volunteer time at the store to give Mrs. Biazzo a break from time-to-time. “I had an outpouring of people that wanted to work for nothing. ‘Are you crazy?’ I asked them,” Mrs. Biazzo said. “When Connie said that to me and the girls at the physical therapy office offered to help out — I told myself I needed to regroup.” She had always wanted a little shop that felt like home — specifically the home of her grandmother, Nana Rose, and that is exactly what she had created in Adams. Nana Rose had already provided the answer to the question of what she thought she was looking for. “There is a little bit of everything but I like to keep things vintage,” said Mrs. Biazzo. The recent success of the book “The Help” by Kathryn Stockett and the success of the television drama “Mad Men” on AMC has many people who are living in the age of the new millennium hungry for the nostalgia of the 1960s. They long for the vintage furniture and martini shakers or the dresses and fashions that defined the era. The television drama has received critical acclaim for its historical authentic-

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NNY Business | September 2011

AMANDA MORRISON | NNY BUSINESS

Paula Biazzo, owner of Nana Rose Unique Gifts and Home Decor, sits in the main section of her Adams store.

ity and visual style and catapulted its look and feel into today’s fashion retail market. The lure of the 1960s has broadened the Nana Rose customer base to include women in their 20s and 30s. Nana Rose customers have been known to purchase nightgowns from the 1950s, funky lamps and furniture. Mrs. Biazzo recently sold a set of cocktail trays from the 1960s that had an indentation to hold a cigarette and food. The stores eclectic appeal brings in regular customers who get a real thrill with the constant updating of what’s for sale. The goals Mrs. Biazzo had set for her location in Clayton were carried out in Adams by adding new dealers, like HandyCandy. When she decided to stay in Adams, she took the advice of her landlord and added six new dealers who were given their own space to sell items within her store. The new dealers have drawn their own followers to Nana Rose – which increased the overall foot traffic. And the new dealers are the ones that she calls on if needed to help out at the store. She got what she wanted without closing her Adams location. “I don’t know what I was thinking, I’m so glad I stayed,” Mrs. Biazzo said. n Andrea C. Pedrick is a freelance writer and former television reporter who lives in Dexter. Contact her at abrped@twcny.rr.com.

S T. L AW R E N C E C OUN T Y

CU students aid entrepreneurs

n Program lets undergrads help small businesses solve problems By GABRIELLE HOVENDON

A NNY Business

t Clarkson University’s Reh Center for Entrepreneurship, students are putting out fires for local businesses. This spring, the Reh Center established its Fresh Ideas for Real Entrepreneurs, or “FIRE Department,” program, in which Clarkson undergraduates partner with entrepreneurs to solve regional small-business needs. Through the program, students receive practical work experience and are rewarded with stipends when they accomplish specific objectives within a deadline.” We always see a need from local entrepreneurs for help in their businesses, and it’s important for us to give the students at Clarkson real, hands-on experience,” said Erin M. Draper, associate director of the Reh Center. “This was a way for us to partner real businesses with the needs our students have.” During the first semester of the program this spring, five students completed 18 projects with local entrepreneurs who previously had enrolled in the Reh Center’s My Small Business 101 classes. The students worked with entrepreneurs as diverse as contractors and soap makers in locations ranging from Potsdam to High Falls Gorge in the Adirondack Park. Through the program, the students were responsible for helping redesign websites, developing new marketing strategies and evaluating businesses’ strengths and weaknesses. According to Mary E. Hilton, owner of the recently opened Maple Run Emporium, the students also helped her determine the best inventory-tracking system for her new business. “They did a very thorough job. I did research on my own, but I was not familiar enough with those types of systems to make a decision, and they’re quite ex-

pensive to invest in,” Ms. Hilton said. “To have three people do a lot of research on it for a couple weeks, meet with me, find out what I needed and then do a thorough report really made me feel confident.” This fall, the Clarkson students will work on at least 12 projects with area businesses, including the Potsdam Food Co-op. According to Ms. Draper, Clarkson

program is supplemented by small success bonuses given to the students by the area entrepreneurs. While the students do not receive academic credit through the program, they must undergo a selective application process and are paid a wage for participating. “We see great success. We’ve started to track the business owners’ satisfaction with the program and the projects, and we’ve had great feedback from them,” Ms. Draper said. “From the student perspective, the experience they’re getting has been invaluable for them.”

This fall, Clarkson students will work on at least 12 projects with area businesses, including the Potsdam Food Co-op. Clarkson hopes to expand the program to 20 projects and eight students per semester in the near future. hopes to expand the program to 20 projects and eight students per semester in the near future. Funded in part by a recent $1.5 million endowment from the Reh family, the

n GABRIELLE HOVENDON is a Johnson Newspapers staff writer based in Canton. Contact her at ghovendon@wdt.net or 661-2517.

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pe o ple o n the m o ve People, from page 9 Mrs. McKinney will work to educate homeowners, community leaders, business owners and the public on the benefits of energy efficiency and renewable resources. Additionally, she will help organizations and businesses build opportunities and create jobs by providing access to job training and recruitment for local business partners, and provide assistance to energy-related businesses and entrepreneurs through initiatives that increase awareness of local and NYSERDA business assistance services available to early-stage, clean-energy businesses.

Surgeon recertified

North Country Orthopaedic Group surgeon Dr. Perry T. Shuman has been recertified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons. To maintain certification, the surgeon must go through a recertification process every 10 years that includes a review of credentials as well as oral and written testing. Dr. Shuman will be certified to practice orthopaedic surgery through 2022. Dr. Shuman received his medical degree from the University of Wisconsin at Whitewater and completed his orthopaedic training at SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse. He is Samaritan Medical Center’s chief of surgery. Dr. Shuman is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Completes course

Linda Disalvatore, Watertown, has

completed a course in personal property appraisal at the Certified Appraisers Guild of America, St. Louis, North America’s largest trainer of personal property appraisers. Ms. Disalvatore is a principal in Sisters Antiques along with her sister, Jane Sylvester. They have been buying and selling collectibles and antiques and conducting estate sales for more than 10 years.

Hospital VP named

Susan M. Hodgson joined Canton-Potsdam Hospital on Sept. 4 as vice president of quality and performance improvement. Ms. Hodgson brings more than 13 years of qualityfocused experience in the health care industry. Most recently she Hodgson served as corporate vice president of quality, patient safety with the Greater Hudson Valley Health System. She has also served as director of quality support services at the Saratoga Hospital, and quality management and patient safety specialist at St. Peter’s Hospital, Albany. Ms. Hodgson received her master’s degree in health services administration at St. Joseph’s College in Maine. In addition, Ms. Hodgson recently completed the Patient Safety Executive Program at the Institute for Health Care Improvement in Cambridge, Mass. In her role as vice president, Ms. Hodgson will provide oversight and management of quality management, infection prevention, case management, perfor-

mance improvement, patient satisfaction, clinical documentation and the anesthesia and hospitalist departments. She will serve as a senior leader reporting to the president and CEO and will support the Board of Directors Quality Improvement and Patient Safety Committee.

Chamber CEO hired

The Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce has named Lynn M. Pietroski its new CEO and president. Mrs. Pietroski, of Sackets Harbor, succeeds Peter J. Whitmore, who has been in the position since May 2010 and announced his resignation for personal reasons earlier this year. Mrs. Pietroski has been the associate director of the Children’s Home of Pietroski Jefferson County, where she has worked for 11 years. “Jefferson County is growing, and growing in a positive way,” Mrs. Pietroski said. “I am looking forward to promoting the benefits the chamber provides and to help get people to see what’s out there.” David J. Malone, chairman of the chamber’s board of directors, said about 25 people submitted applications for the position and the five-member search committee interviewed six to select Mrs. Pietroski. Mrs. Pietroski, a Watertown native and 1992 Immaculate Heart Central graduate, began work on Sept. 6. Mr. Whitmore will stay on during a transition period of an undetermined term.

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NNY Business | September 2011

R E A L E S TAT E R OUN D U P

Appraisers require state licensing

ast month, I looked at how someone becomes a Realtor (by becoming licensed and joining a Board of Realtors) and how someone gets licensed to list and sell real estate in New York through classes and a state test and application. This month I will look at the process to become a licensed or certified appraiser and next month I will explore ways that, once licensed, a person keeps his or her licenses through continuing education. Often overlooked in talking about Realtors and real estate licensees are appraisers. Like real estate salesperson and brokers, appraisers are regulated by the Department of State. Becoming a licensed or certified appraiser is a process that combines education and experience. Real estate appraisal is the process of valuing real property and finding its market value or worth. Because every property has unique features or characteristics, the market value for similar properties can be different based on location, features, condition, etc. An appraiser usually provides a written report on this value to his or her client. These reports are used as the basis for mortgage loans, for settling estates and divorces, for tax matters and so on. Sometimes the appraisal report is used by both parties to set the sale price of the property appraised. According to the Department of State, there are three basic requirements for an appraiser’s license/certification: n Education is required of all applicants and is based on the category of license/ certification for which you are applying. n A written examination is required. n Experience is required of all ap-

plicants and is based on the category of license/certification for which you are applying. Applicants not meeting the experience requirements may be eligible for an appraiser Lance Evans assistant license. There are four different types of licenses or certifications that the Department of State issues. Before you can earn one of them, there are certain requirements beyond the education. n State Licensed Real Estate Appraiser requires 2,000 hours of experience over a period of not less than 24 months. Of this, 75 percent, or 1,500 hours, must be residential property appraisal. n State Certified Residential Appraiser requires 2,500 hours of experience over a period of not less than 24 months of which 75 percent, 1,875 hours, must be from residential property appraisal. Eighty percent, 1,500 hours, of a candidate’s residential work will be in single family appraisal, 10 percent, or 187.5 hours, in multi-family properties, and the remainder in another area of residential, like vacant lot or farms. n State Certified General Appraiser requires 3,000 hours of experience over a period of not less than 30 months. Of this, 75 percent (2,250 hours) is in appraisals of general properties, like multi-family, commercial/industrial or other types like land,

manufacturing and institutional. One of the above categories must account for 60 percent (1,350 hours) of the experience with each of the other two making up 20 percent (450 hours each) of the experience. n An appraiser assistant can get licensed when he or she meets the minimum education requirements of a State Licensed Real Estate Appraiser and files an appraiser application. He or she must be supervised by a New York State licensed or certified appraiser who must cosign any appraisal report involving a federally-related transaction over a certain level, and must utilize the same Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice as a state licensed or certified appraiser. As you can see, it takes a lot to become licensed or certified to appraise real estate. All appraisal licenses or certifications last for two years and application and renewal fees range from $275-$325 (exclusive of education costs). All are required to take at least 28 hours of continuing education every two years, which must include the seven-hour National Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice update course. Like those who list and sell real estate, most are self-employed and rely on reputation to make their livelihood. So now that someone is licensed or certified to sell or appraise real estate, what education do they need to renew? I will explore that next month. n LANCE M. EVANS is the executive officer of the Jefferson-Lewis Board of Realtors and the St. Lawrence County Board of Realtors. He has lived in the north country since 1985. Contact him at levans@nnymls.com. His column appears monthly in NNY Business.

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September 2011 | NNY Business

| 27

R E A L E S TAT E

Building sector eyes recovery

n City of Watertown steady since ’07, activity up this year By NANCY MADSEN

T NNY Business

he city of Watertown is under construction, both with new building and renovations of the old. The city has seen wide swings in the value of construction in recent years, but the number of building permits, which cover everything from a new porch or garage to a new hotel or hospice center, have remained pretty stable. “It’s been steady right along,” said Shawn R. McWayne, city code enforcement supervisor. “It’s fast-paced up here right now, which is good for us.” And that pace, many agree is because of Fort Drum, has held steady for several years. Building permits are an indication of what upcoming construction is going to be, as those who obtain them have six months to use the initial one, which can also be extended. The big-ticket items, such as retail development and hotels, caused the roller-coaster of figures over the last several years, but there have been a steady number of repairs and smaller projects. “The past five to six years, we’ve had a very steady stream of work due to Fort Drum,” said Terry M. Petrie, executive director of the Northern New York Builders Exchange Inc. Members of the exchange generally work on commercial or government projects from Jefferson County to Franklin County. “We see a little bit of everything throughout Jefferson County,” he said. “It was slow this spring but we’re seeing good signs this summer. A lot of members are picking up work.” That evaluation is backed up by the value declared in the building permits. The first quarter of 2011 was much lower than the last two years. The second quarter rebounded and is much higher than the past two years. Residential projects continue as homeowners and city organizations try to improve their homes. “It’s a necessary aspect of a community’s revitalization,” said Gary C. Beasley, executive director of Neighbors of Water-

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NNY Business | September 2011

town Inc. “The city’s downtown facade, image and pedestrian friendliness — that’s what makes Watertown attractive to businesses contemplating relocating here. ‘Is it a pleasant community, a community that takes pride in itself?’ Assuming all other aspects are positive, if they’re looking at a community that is blighted, that would be a turn-off.” The city has used Neighbors as the nonprofit to utilize the Community Development Block Grant as owner-occupied rehabilitation for houses and now for upper-level apartment creation downtown. “It was a collaboration on the city’s part, our part — we all agreed to try and revitalize the upper floors,” Mr. Beasley said. “It’s part of the streetscape vision.” This year, the façade and upper floors of Wing Wagon were renovated. Contractors are now working on apartments above Rent-A-Zone and in the Cahill Building. Those two projects will receive $165,000 in low-interest loans from the Community Development Block Grant program, $165,000 in grants from that project, plus $60,000 in grants from state’s HOME Program, $30,000 from the NY Main Street

grant program and $100,000 from the Watertown Local Development Corp. That is on top of the owners’ contributions. The two projects total more than $1 million. “The cost is higher, the number is less, but it’s well worth it and will make an impact downtown,” he said. Other businesses have already had the facades renovated or are planning upperfloor apartments. “Public Square doesn’t exist in any other community,” Mr. Beasley said. “Our buildings are in good shape, basically. You can’t replicate it with new construction. They’re masonry structures and form an entire streetscape of buildings, which makes the downtown district what it is.” But Neighbors hasn’t forgotten about the neighborhoods around Watertown and wants to return to revitalization programs. “We want to certainly continue that work,” he said. “We have a long list of families who would like to have some help revitalizing.” n NANCY MADSEN is a Johnson Newspapers staff writer. Contact her at nmadsen@wdt. net or 661-2358.

R eal e s tate / s t. lawre n ce c o u n t y St. Lawrence County

The following property sales were recorded in the St. Lawrence County clerk’s office

July 1

n Village of Canton: Unknown acres, being Lot 10 in Section 4, Kyle B. Hannon, Canton, sold to Nicholas C. Kocher, Canton $121,000

June 30

ton, sold to Karen M. Thompson, Massena $35,000

n Village of Potsdam: Unknown acres bounded by Castle Drive, Lawrence L. and Chikako Robinson, Potsdam, sold to Piergiovanni Marzocca and Lin Tian, Potsdam$108,000 n Village of Potsdam: 0.26 of an acre more or less, bounded by Pierrepont Avenue, Derry R. and Eileen G. Loucks, Potsdam, sold to Shelly A. Tramposh and Celena R. Haase, Potsdam $97,000

n Town of Fine: 0.096 of an acre more or less, being a part of Lot 47, bounded by Swiss Point Road, Mary Sherman (trustee), Mary Sherman Living Trust, Star Lake, sold to Steven and Anne Marie Sanders, Berwick, Ontario $30,000

June 29

n Village of Canton: Unknown acres, bounded by Riverside Drive, Kerri A. Benedict (executor) Helene Mellon, Canton, sold to Karen E. Butler, Matthew R. Butler and Sonya Butler, Canton $107,000

n Town of Pierrepont: Four parcels,1) 26.13 acres more or less, 2) 25 acres more or less, 3) 25.33 acres more or less, 4) 25 acres more or less, all bounded by the Ore Bed Road, Thomas J. and Bonnie J. Yacobacci, Colton, sold to George A. Miller III and Debra Miller, Needville, Texas $155,000

n Village of Canton: 0.05 of an acre more or less, bounded by Miner and Main Streets, Conmar Enterprises LLC, Canton, sold to Topaz Development LLC, Watertown $200,000

n Town of Lawrence: 50 acres more or less, bounded by County Route 52, Irvin and Ruth Ann Martin, North Lawrence, sold to Starr E. Rudolph, Syracuse $156,600

n Town of Pierrepont: 0.32 of an acre more or less, bounded by Post Road, Thomas P. and Courtney L. McGowan, Norwood, sold to Louis P. Spataro, Colton $85,000

n Village of Canton: 0.67 of an acre more or less, bounded by Miner and Main Streets, MSMGAS Inc., Canton, sold to Topaz Development LLC, Watertown $400,000

n Town of Russell: Three parcels,1) 7 65/100 acres more or less, 2) 0.36 of an acre more or less, and 3) 0.29 of an acre more or less, all are parts of Lots 12 and 14, bounded by East Road, James O. and Silka D. J. Stein, Russell, sold to Mackay et al, Star Lake $35,000

n Village of Massena: Unknown acres, known as Lot 12 in Block 105, bounded by Alden Street, Cheryl Hoisington, Longmont, Colo. and Joanne Mathieson, Newton Grove, N.C., sold to Robert J. Perras, Massena $35,000

n Town of DeKalb: Two parcels,1) 165 75/100 acres more or less, Parcel 2) 7.65 acres more or less, both being a part of Lots 150, 151 and 159, also bounded by Rock Island Road, Abey J. Hadfield Jr., Gouverneur, sold to Martin and Julianne Spilman and Blake Spilman, Gouverneur $48,000

n Town of Brasher: 0.708 of an acre more or less, bounded by Pike Road, Max R. Barney, Brasher Falls, sold to Colleen E. Hallahan, Potsdam $102,800 n Village of Gouverneur: 0.25 of an acre more or less, bounded by Barnes Street, Earl A. Kilander III and Jennifer L. Kilander, Gouverneur, sold to Cory A. Denesha and Kimberly C. Hayden, Gouverneur $136,000 n Town of Fowler: Unknown acres, bounded by Country Club Road and Lamb Road, Christopher J. and Trudy A. Ellis, Gouverneur, sold to David P. King, Edwards $71,000

n Village of Massena: Unknown acres, being a part of Lot 48, bounded by Bridges Avenue, Lisa M. Horton, Massena, sold to Robert G. and Asia A. Babcock, Massena $92,000

n Village of Canton: 0.33 of an acre more or less, being a part of Lot 4, bounded by Canterbury Lane, Marylou T. Scott, Canton, sold to James H. Wilkinson and Jean Laidlaw Wilkinson (trustees), Wilkinson Revocable Living Trust, Canton $195,000

n Town of Macomb: 0.845 of an acre more or less, bounded by Brown’s Lot, David and Rita Bergquist, Brewerton, sold to Francis L. Goodridge Jr. and Kathleen M. Goodridge, Marion $240,000

$2,449,400

n Village of Massena: Unknown acres, known as Lot 17 in Block 46, North Country Savings Bank, Can-

County real estate sales recorded over 3-day period, June 29-July 1, 2011

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| 29

20 questions

Charting W

ith a 2010 payroll that topped $1 million at his Watertown Holiday Inn & Suites hotel, real estate developer and entrepreneur Patrick M. Donegan is sincere about creating jobs in the north country. His best advice for politicians on how to do the same: government just needs to get out of the way and let the private sector do the work.

NNYB: What family members are you in business with and what is it like working for a family business? DONEGAN: My dad started in the real estate development business. He operated the Riveredge for 24-25 years, so the hotel business was in my blood. I then started my own company, which he helps me with. I pretty much work by myself with my dad’s assistance, of course. It’s been great; I’m a glutton for punishment.

NNYB: What attracted you, with a law degree, to this business? DONEGAN: Mostly the people, I like being around a lot of people. I don’t like being by myself. The hotel business gets you in touch with a lot of people, people who visit, and the team here. We’re going to have about 125 employees between the two hotels.

NORM JOHNSTON | NNY BUSINESS

the right

n Entrepreneur Patrick Donegan eyes job creation through sustainable development ter solution. I was a young kid playing with older gentlemen in the real estate business and it wasn’t always easy to get in the door as a young 25- or 26-year-old kid. But when they find out you have a law degree they realize you must have something going for you.

NNYB: You’re putting a lot of people to work and taking a risk in this kind of economic climate. Why now? Why take this risk? DONEGAN: I look at the downtime as an opportunity. There are a lot of people out there looking for jobs, like contractors. If you wanted to build a house right now, now’s the time to do it. There are guys out there looking for work, whereas three or four years ago, if you tried to build your house, it might have cost you 30 or 40 percent more. Now is an economical time to build things. There are guys looking for work and they’re more aggressive on their pricing.

NNYB: Is there any reason, over another, why you chose the Hilton brand?

DONEGAN: One good thing law school teaches you is complex problem solving. Sometimes a problem can be so big or appear so big that you get overwhelmed. A law school background teaches you how to break it down into smaller problems and come up with a mas-

DONEGAN: The Holiday Inn Express and Hilton brands were two of the top brands available in the market. Right now they are very popular brands in the marketplace. I built the Holiday Inn Express in 2006 originally because there were no new hotels built in Watertown in the last 25 years. I think the newest place built in Jefferson County was my dad’s Riveredge back in the day, and that was 27 years old when I

30 |

NNYB: How does a law background help with your business?

NNY Business | September 2011

course built this. The Hilton brand is more full-service. The Holiday Inn Express has 115 rooms, the Hilton has 136.

NNYB: Given the competitors going in off Gaffney Drive, did you kind of start a trend here? DONEGAN: Sounds like it. I’m trying to stay the nicest place in town. To be the nicest place in town, you can’t be the cheapest place. I think some of these guys, like the Fairfield, will try and attack the Holiday Inn Express brand. I assume they’re going to attack me in price. You need a certain price point, because it will cost you $70 plus just to put someone in a room, between taxes, lights, mortgage payments, the food that you serve, the staff. You have to have a little bit in there to repair things. If I see a dent in the wallpaper, I will replace it immediately. If the carpet is worn, we replace it. A lot of these guys will beat them and beat them and that’s where you see some of those Days Inn brands come about. When a lot of the upper brands got old and they wouldn’t renew their franchise agreements, that’s where a lot of these brands like the Days Inn came in and picked up the second and third generation hotels and set the price a little bit lower and the standards a little bit lower. I try to be a perfectionist. It’s hard to be a perfectionist, but I try. NNYB: How has real estate development

20 questions

changed since you got your start? DONEGAN: There has been more competition and the competition has become smarter. It’s a smaller world we live in now. In the real estate business in particular, a Florida developer can get on Google Earth and look at Arsenal Street and say ‘Oh my God, there’s a green spot there that’s not developed,’ and they’ll look on property tax records and come and compete with me. Whereas 10 years ago the guy that lived here knew his neighborhood so well that when a big tenant came into town he would look up a local person. Now they can hire someone from anywhere to do work for them. It has allowed me to drift over to Vermont, so it goes both ways. The hotel market has gotten tough, once that one opens and mine opens, we are more than adequately roomed up in town here. You’ll see some sort of shake out in the next few years. You’ll see some rate pressure first and then you’ll see quality decline in a couple of them because they’re not bringing in enough revenue and then they’ll go into the death spiral from there.

NNYB: What challenges have you encountered? DONEGAN: Making sure you have the right people in the right place. It’s like a football team, if you have a guy that’s a good quarterback, you can’t put him at wide receiver. Sometimes we hire people based on personality and their skill set. Personality is the most important, because you’re dealing with people. You can’t train personality. Unless they come in, you have to find something they excel at and then move them into that.

NNYB: What’s the best business advice you have ever followed? DONEGAN: What my dad has always told me: Remain humble. I don’t care if you’re Donald Trump or Warren Buffet, we’re all the same, we’re all in this together and we’re going to end up in the same box. Don’t let your head swell out, you have to remain humble. I don’t care if you’re rich, poor, whatever, we’re all the same. We all have to live together. Whenever you drive down this road, think of all of the people that are behind it, you can’t think you’re alone.

NNYB: It was mentioned that you tried to get Wegmans to come up here, is that true? DONEGAN: Yeah, and there’s no way. The guy told me to stop calling. They’re heading south to bigger markets. Everyone does their demographic study here and realize how nice the place is. But then they do their circle of here, and they see downtown and a three mile stretch. They don’t look at Canada, they just look at the raw demographic and the five mile circle around this spot. It only shows 34,000 people making X amount of dollars and to them they can go to Fairfax, Va., with 750,000 making $65,000 a year and have a better chance at making more money. That’s how they make

NORM JOHNSTON | NNY BUSINESS

Patrick M. Donegan, Hilton Garden Inn owner and real estate developer, talks about his many projects in the great room of his Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Watertown’s Stateway Plaza. their location decisions.

NNYB: Are there specific things you look at when developing businesses? DONEGAN: We try to keep the mix good. We try to do different things here; we’ve gotten the breakfast coffees, the Starbucks, the phone service, three different types of restaurants with different types of food, two different types of hotel and a bank. There will be a little overlap, with Five Guys being a little like Ruby Tuesdays, but we’re trying to get new things to the area.

NNYB: Where do you see your industry trending in 5, 10, 20 years? DONEGAN: Approvals are getting harder and harder, government approvals are becoming very difficult, becoming a very hard part of developing real estate. A lot of the existing stuff, the value gets better because it’s existing because you don’t have to go through the process of getting approvals. The drainage studies are getting worse, traffic studies are getting worse, building codes are getting worse. It’s a lot different than it was 12 years ago. Some of it is good; some of it is overdoing it.

NNYB: What would you change if you could, in terms of the governmental process? DONEGAN: Some of the people dictating things haven’t walked a mile in those shoes. We have a very reactionary governmental style. One thing goes wrong and all of a sudden they pass two laws. What happened to being proactive and thinking ahead and getting ahead of the curve and not being so knee jerk? Some of it, I think, they rush to do something because they feel the need to come up with an immediate resolution, instead of thinking it through.

NNYB: From your point of view, how does innovation play into your business? DONEGAN: Innovation is some guy that is

The Patrick M. Donegan file Age: 42 Job: Hotelier / real estate developer Hometown: Alexandria Bay Family: Wife, Laurie, daughters Presley, 9, Kendal, 4, and Mattea, 3. Education: Bachelor’s degrees in science and arts, Boston University School of Management, and juris doctorate, Albany Law School. Professional: Entrepreneur. Owns Vision Development, Rocklyn Companies, 81 Land Co., Hotel 45 Inc. and Millennuim Development. LAST BOOK READ: “A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail” by Bill Bryson.

working on something and says ‘I wish there was an easier way to do this’ and he designs or implements a tool or an idea or method to do that task easier and then takes it out to the market and becomes the millionaire guy. A lot of stuff has been created out of necessity. The guy that created the Holiday Inn chain stayed at a lot of roadside motels and saw a lot of inconsistency, so he came up with an idea to create a chain and have everything the same, just like McDonalds, you can get the same tasting burger here or in France. Innovation to me is someone who comes up with a way to solve a problem they may have and make money off of that solution. You always want to have a few more dozen whistles than the other guy. If you were look at Hotel A and Hotel B and they were within $10 or $20 of another and one had something that really caught your eye, you might pay the extra to go there because of that. Innovation puts you ahead of the other choice. September 2011 | NNY Business

| 31

20 Questions

NNYB: If you could land one top retailer in this market, who would it be? Who would you like to see? DONEGAN: That’s kind of a trade secret. Costco would be nice. Wegmans would have been nice. Costco would do well because it’d draw a lot of people from Canada. Even the Bass Pro shops would do alright here, but we already have Gander Mountain. They want a million people within five miles, though, I tried. I went to Bass Pro shops and Cabela’s. I own all the way up to Covidien and where the Ontario Village Apartments are. We own from the State Way Plaza up north. I have a big box for someone eventually.

NNYB: We’re not headed toward a big recovery yet, but where do you see the future of this area going? DONEGAN: This area is always behind the rest of the world by a couple of years, which is one of the things I love about the north country. You can go to Florida and have a vacation and see a new idea four years before it gets here. We saw some of the chains we work with developing up the coast and called them and courted them to work with them. I think I am going to settle down for a while. I’ve been running out flat for 12 years. I’ve had a good run and I think I’m going to concentrate on doing a good job running these places and doing a few

real estate development deals in other places. If you go to the craps table a lot, you’re going to crap out.

NNYB: With the credit crunch, how has obtaining financing affected you and your business? DONEGAN: My dad always taught me if you can’t buy it, don’t buy it. I had tons of friends in high school and college go out and buy an ATV or a car and they’d say ‘Oh I can finance it, I have a payment book; this is great.’ The one thing I’ve done is only finance what I have to finance, versus a lot of guys will literally take everything the bank will give them, and I think that’s part of why we got into trouble. I only took what I had to, and that’s what’s gotten me through this downturn. By not overleveraging, you’re strong.

NNYB: At the Hilton Garden Inn you have a sizeable conference center. That’s a business within a business, what will that bring to the area? DONEGAN: It will bring a state of the art facility for things like trade shows and weddings, we should be able to hold 200-300 people and have smaller breakout rooms. We have all the new technology; Big Apple helped us with drop down televisions and wireless technology. Some of the older hotels never upgraded and couldn’t afford to upgrade because of the financial environment and how they ran their business. That’s part of the reason we went with this brand, is to have the conference center. We got a lot of calls for people looking for function space.

NNYB: Is there a food and beverage portion to the Hilton brand? DONEGAN: The chain will have a Garden Café, a restaurant that comes with the place. There’s a certain portion of the menu that is dictated and they let us pick the rest. There is a bar to go with it, restaurant with breakfast, lunch and dinner. That’s the hardest part of the business, the food and beverage. You can keep your rooms clean, keep everything perfect and provide a consistent product. With food, there are so many variables, the cook could be tired, you just don’t know anymore. That’s why chains have been successful; they’ve learned kind of a robotic system.

NNYB: What advice would you give to someone getting into the business? DONEGAN: Surround yourself with good people; pay the extra money for good people. You get what you pay for in life, whether it’s a room or a team member. [The Holiday Inn Express] alone was well over a million dollars in payroll last year. You can’t run this place by yourself; you need a good group of people. — Interview by Ken Eysaman. Edited for length. Know a good 20 Questions candidate? Email the editor at keysaman@wdt.net.

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NNY Business | September 2011

E c o n o m i cally s peak i n g

Trade corridors vital to success

ne of the key components to successful international trade is viable trade corridors. The Capital Corridor plays a significant role in regional economic development, education, information exchange and technology transfer. But this is not a new phenomenon. The Silk Road was one of the first trade corridors to join the eastern and western worlds. The route dates back to the Han Dynasty starting in 202 B.C. and joined the Yellow River valley in China with the Mediterranean Sea. The first Chinese traders of silk began collaboration with the central Asian tribes to exchange precious stones for silk. Indians would ultimately trade silk with the Roman Empire. Along the silk roads, technology traveled, ideas were exchanged and friendship and understanding between east and west occurred for the first time on a large scale. Just as the Silk Road evolved into an important trade route for different countries, bi-national corridors like the Capital Corridor exist primarily because of the importance of the trading relationship between Canada and the United States. This relationship is a trillion-dollar partnership. In addition to the nearly $600 billion trade in goods, there is an additional $67 billion trade in services and $470 billion in foreign direct investment in each other’s countries. Often overlooked is the fact that Canada is the largest supplier of foreign oil, nuclear fuel, electricity and natural gas to the U.S. What makes our trading relationship so unique is that it consists not only of the trade of finished goods but also trade as a part of an integrated supply chain. At least one third of Canada-U.S. border shipments represent intra-firm trade, that is, things we make together. Almost a quarter of our merchandise trade is in automobiles, trucks

and parts. This commerce is one of the world’s largest integrated industrial value chains. This trading relationship is not just limited to border states. In fact, 35 of the 50 states list Canada as their Howard Kelly most important export market. States as far south as Georgia, Mississippi, Arkansas and North Carolina all look to Canada as their No. 1 trading partner. The importance of this relationship cannot be underestimated as it supports about 8 million U.S. jobs and more than 3 million Canadian jobs. Corridors are an important component of countries’ economic development activities. The Canadian government has recognized the importance of international trade and is spending considerable sums to establish Canada as a logistics hub for North America. The Canadian government’s goal in working to establish Canada as the logistics hub between Asia and North America is to develop world-class transportation systems for future economic growth in international trade. Canada’s modern ports on its east and west coasts are not only closer to Asia and Europe than seaports in the U.S., they also have a great deal of capacity to move goods inland into the North American economy. This east-west movement ultimately moves south through bi-national trade corridors like the Capital Corridor. Such trade corridors are clearly a vital component of the integration that defines the North American economy. Increasing the north-south flow of goods, technologies

and people along defined bi-national trade corridors, will enhance future international trade into North America. The importance of international trade to our region was one of the main reasons for the creation of the Capital Corridor. The Capital Corridor is a trade and tourism initiative funded by the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority and the Federal Bridge Corp. Ltd., a Canadian Crown Corporation. The corridor initially was projected to connect the two nation’s capitals of Ottawa and Washington, D.C. However, collaborations with other economic development groups have sparked geographic expansion of the Capital Corridor along highway 401 in Canada and down Interstate 81 all the way to Tennessee. Our goal is straight forward — remove parochial considerations while helping other organizations understand the importance of being part of a larger, integrated region. From the perspective of the Capital Corridor, all economic development along the corridor is positive. Some of our key objectives are fostering relationships, leveraging the strengths of our stakeholders, and facilitating a positive and timely exchange of information among stakeholders along the corridor. We strive to be a resource for interested parties on both sides of the border, heightening awareness of trade, travel and tourism issues, and supporting the flow of information, goods and people. Visit www.thecapitalcorridor.com to learn more about the Capital Corridor.

n Howard Kelly is executive director of the Capital Corridor. A native of Canada, Mr. Kelly holds Canadian and U.S. citizenship. He has worked in the nonprofit and manufacturing sectors on both sides of the border. He lives in Watertown with his wife. Contact him at howard kelly@thecapitalcorridor.com.

September 2011 | NNY Business

| 33

NON P R OFI T S T O D AY

Challenging status quo never easy

he nonprofit sector continues to face the realization that operating with a businessas-usual philosophy may mean going out of business. North country nonprofits are most often recognized for their role as stewards of the community’s health, quality of life and well-being. Presently, though, they often have their hands full continuing being good stewards of their own survival and well-being. At the Northern New York Community Foundation, we frequently see requests to fund infrastructure improvements as well as ongoing maintenance. Requests to help pay for furnaces, electrical work, roofs, windows, painting and structural repairs appear almost monthly. For many years, this organization has been pleased to be able to assist organizations with some of these important endeavors. Projects like these often make the fulfillment of the respective organizations’ missions possible. We have traditionally seen this as a way to lend a helping hand where others can’t or won’t. Some projects, such as historic preservation, have merits simply in preserving a community treasure for future generations. However, as we all continue to operate under the “new normal,” funders and donors have begun to even more carefully scrutinize each and every dollar that is given. This should come as no surprise. I might suggest for a moment, however, that, when it comes to funders investing in infrastructure, our ability to be a longterm catalyst for change is diminished

when already scarce resources are devoured before the mission even gets a chance to take a bite. For the purposes of this discussion, I wonder if Rande Richardson there might be opportunities for many of our nonprofit organizations to benefit from being in one building, with one roof, one furnace, one parking lot and one set of expenses to go with them. There are hundreds of shared space “nonprofit centers” across the country that have been gaining recognition for helping nonprofits become more efficient and effective in surviving during these unstable economic times. Is there also an additional meaningful benefit to having an array of community services located in a common physical location? Besides providing adequate, cost-effective space, there is the opportunity to minimize redundancy, improve operations, and share knowledge, back office resources and networks within a quality nonprofit workspace. It could be a place for nonprofits to gather and grow rather than spending so much energy on ensuring infrastructure resources. They can be hubs for community organizing and economic development as well as overall increased vis-

ibility. It can be mission-enhancing rather than mission-detracting. If we all believe in our missions as much as we profess to, why not look for savings in areas that least impact the ability to change and shape lives? Why not explore creative ways to use shared space as a collaborative engine? Today’s competitive reality from all funding sources may require it. This may not be practical or even prudent for all nonprofits, but I would expect that some form of a “onestop-shop” concept could work here. The buzzword often used in the nonprofit sector is outcomes. As the “third sector” (for-profit and government being the first two) continues to rediscover and reinvent itself, it would be beneficial to be ahead of the curve. We have the intellectual leadership and passion to get us there. A decade from now, let’s not say we sat on the sidelines while several critical issues facing us left our collective heads spinning while our missions took a back seat. Are we willing to think seriously about these issues and take action to address them head on? We can have the leadership to bring a mandate for real change or we can remain satisfied with the status quo. Challenging traditional practices is never easy. As it’s sometimes said, it is better to be at the table than on the menu.

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

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NNY Business | September 2011

C o mmerce c o r n er

Think globally, even as a small biz

he thought of anything international may seem foreign (no pun intended) to many of us. I think we need to look closely at our own market to realize how relevant international business is to all of us. While your company may not do business in an international market, we all need to think and act more globally. We can reference some of our local companies that actually conduct business internationally, Car Freshner, Jain Irrigation, Airbrake, Roth Industries to name a few. We also have several companies that do business with Canada or are subsidiaries or affiliates of foreignbased companies. There may be opportunity in simply supplying goods or services for a domestic company that does business globally. The Capital Corridor is one agency specifically dedicated to this function. We have Drum Country Business, the Development Authority of the North Country, and other great agencies that try to help create international opportunities in both directions. I also think we underestimate the influence of multinational companies’ broad reach. We have learned from industry giants such as General Electric, IBM, Pepsi, P&G and others. We have all benefitted from global corporate program models for example Six-Sigma training, ISO 9000, human resource programs, proprietary software programs and other good business practices that have been scaled down for use by small business.

Let’s be honest, if you are a small business and the reality is that you won’t be going global, please consider the importance of the international community as your Peter Whitmore customer. We are so fortunate to experience the cultural diversity of Fort Drum. We have soldiers, spouses and

again someday as a private businessman), I enjoy it and it has been a privilege. I want to say a final thank you to all of the truly great people I have been blessed to meet over the past 14 months. I want you to know, the chamber will have a whole new energy with Lynn Pietroski as its new CEO. She will hit the ground running and asks all the right questions, I am excited about the organization’s future. I want you to also know how lucky we are to live here. I can’t begin to tell you how proud I am of our community. I have traveled a lot, and I can honestly say I am happy we stayed here. It’s not perfect, no place is, but on my checklist, our natural beauty, the warmth of our neighbors, the opportunities for those who want to work, people who give their time, money and kindness, my list is complete. I want you to know, most of us are living the dream in Northern New York and I will miss the chamber more than you can imagine, but my decision to leave was right for me and my family. I don’t have any profound words other than you get one life and it can be tragically short, don’t waste a minute. Thank you for all your support and friendship see you around the world.

Consider the importance of the international community as your customer. We are so fortunate to experience the cultural diversity of Fort Drum. families who come from the four corners of the world. As a small business, think about your product or service and see how it might adapt to other cultural communities. I continue to push for multilingual information at your business or hiring a more diverse work force. We all have heard, “work local, think global” and it makes sense. I encourage all of you to take a trip and try something truly international. n

In closing, I want to say a few final words. This is my last column as CEO of the Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce (I hope the editor is desperate enough to ask me to write

n Peter J. Whitmore is immediate past president and CEO of the Greater WatertownNorth Country Chamber of Commerce. He is a longtime small business owner and Jreck Subs franchisee who also is active with the Fort Drum chapter of the Association of the United States Army.

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September 2011 | NNY Business

| 35

A gr i - b u s i n e s s

Social media a tool for farmers, too

frequent complaint in agriculture is that we need to tell our story better. People outside of farming do not understand the changes that have occurred the last 50 years. We’ve gone from the red hipped-roof barn to the large open-sided free stall barn. Why? Is it good or bad? Too many think their food comes from a grocery store. Most of our population is now two to three generations removed from farming. People don’t recognize farming as a business, or as having an impact on their own well-being, financially, and otherwise. Many in agriculture continue to use the old standards; newsletters, news articles, mailings and flyers. But, however reluctantly, farmers and the rest of agriculture are learning how to use the Internet and social media to get their message out and market their products and business. In an industry based on soil, water and sunlight, this is significant. Recently, I had the opportunity to meet the owners of Two Chicks Alpaca Farm in Rodman. Located on Heath Road, it’s somewhat off the beaten path. The farm was receiving its Thousand Islands Ag Tour (www.agvisit.com) road sign from me. While talking with owners Colleen Masterson and Mary Dealing, I asked how often they had people visit the farm. A portion of their business includes tours and selling products made from Alpaca wool. I was curious as to how successful they were in attracting visitors. To my surprise, they enthusiastically informed me that the farm has a Facebook page, (/TwoChicksFarmAlpacas). Earlier that same day, a family who found them on Facebook contacted them for a visit. The family had already made

the stop and toured the farm before I arrived. Mary and Colleen indicated their Facebook page was very helpful to them in getting word out. They are now building a website, www. Jay Matteson twochicksfarmalpacas. com to help market their products. This is a great example of using social media to market your business. Social media also is a great place to tell the story of farming. A number of dairy farmers in Jefferson County regularly use Facebook. While most of the farm users are set up as personal accounts instead of business pages, the purpose is still served. The farmer posts updates, many times from their cell phone in the cab of the tractor, about the challenges they face. This spring you could read posts about trying to get corn planting done between rainstorms. Once the rain stopped, posts included how well the corn was looking or how neighborhood deer were hitting soybean crops. A couple unusual posts detailed the impact of crows on young corn. Through these farmers on Facebook, hundreds of people had the chance to reconnect with a business many are not familiar with and develop a little better appreciation for it. Unfortunately, many of our farmers and agri-businesses are not seeing the advantages of using social media. The Jefferson County Agricultural Development Corp. has helped a number of farms with

retail operations set up Facebook pages. Some, like Cross Island Farms on Wellesley Island, embraced the opportunity and are using it well, while others have not. Besides their Facebook page, Cross Island Farms uses an extensive email list. If you are on their list, you look forward to an email from the farm each week, providing information about crops and livestock and available products. While not as popular locally as Facebook, the use of Twitter is growing in the ag community nationwide. Hundreds participate in forums each week talking about ag issues. A popular national forum for those interested in ag issues is #AgChat. In addition to Twitter, YouTube features some fantastic and creative on-the-farm videos and short movies about agriculture. BASF produced a YouTube video we use frequently in our presentations called One Hungry Planet. Whatever the means, agriculture needs to tell its story and use every vehicle possible to market its products. Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, websites and email lists all can serve well if kept updated and interesting. And just in case you are wondering, you can learn more about the Jefferson County Agricultural Development Corp. at www.comefarmwithus.com, on Facebook at Jefferson County Agricultural Development Corporation, on Twitter @HomeGrownShow, and on LinkedIn at Jay Matteson.

n Jay M. Matteson is agricultural coordinator for the Jefferson County Agricultural Development Corp. He is a lifelong Northern New York resident who lives in Lorraine. Contact him at coordinator@comefarmwithus.com. His column appears monthly in NNY Business.

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NNY Business | September 2011

BUSIN E SS T E C H BY T E S

QR codes: Digital age marketing

uick Response Codes, or QR codes, seemingly still a novelty in the United States, is another mobile business technology that will greatly help you market and advertise your business. QR codes have been the rage in Japan since the early 1990s and are now quickly gaining popularity through convenienceoriented applications aimed at the consumer and their smartphones. QR codes, or mobile barcodes, are two-dimensional matrix barcodes that can hold thousands of alpha-numeric characters of information. One north county business, Proforma Products, has been leveraging this latest innovative technology to grow its existing customer base since 2010. Tom Peck and his staff have talked to countless Northern New York businesses about the marketing potential of QR codes. “A lot of people in the north country aren’t really aware of what a QR code is yet, but once we explain it, everyone wants one,” said Mr. Peck, president of Proforma Products. “They are appealing, as they can come in virtually any color and cost no more to include on promotional materials. Nothing should leave your office without a QR code on it.” Proforma presently works with Clarkson University and the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, and is actively creating QR codes to be included on everything from business literature and postcards to T-shirts and lapel pins. Where could you use QR codes to market you business and expand your reach to the consumer in the digital age? Is your marketing material catchy enough to get

them to pull out their smartphone? Your success with QR codes depends on the seamless interaction between the code that is scanned and its online destination. “If your QR code takes them Jill Van Hoesen to a non-mobile friendly site that doesn’t interact with the customer or is hard to read on a mobile de-

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vice, then it won’t serve any purpose,” said Robert Blakely, Echo Communications. To avoid some common pitfalls, as you embrace this latest advertising craze, be sure to test your QR code to ensure it takes the consumer to its intended URL. A URL, or Uniform Resource Locator, specifies the global address or resource on the World Wide Web. Make sure the URL is a mobile Web-friendly environment. Pushing the consumer to a non-mobile website that is nearly impossible to navigate on a smartphone will be frustrating to the consumer and can damage to your business’s reputation and bottom line. Remember that a QR code is just another link to your

marketing message. The best way to approach QR codes is to put yourself in the shoes of your target audience. Where would you want to go? What do you want to see or receive? Special offers or a coupon, free downloads, instant-win contests, exclusive time-sensitive access to media, video or photos? These are some of the offers that make up persuasive and compelling marketing campaigns. You need to reward your customer who has just scanned your QR code. Joel Rubinson, president and founder of Rubinson Partners, has this advice: “The use of QR codes not only allows the advertiser to offer the tactile engagement of print and benefits of digital all at the same time, but it is not too late to gain a marketing advantage over competitors.” QR codes could make the content digitally sharable, create real-time readership metrics and turn advertising within the print edition into something digital without having to buy an e-reader. A comScore report found that 58 percent of users will scan QR codes at home with 49.4 percent scanning a print source like a magazine or newspaper. Product packaging is next with 35.3 percent followed by 27.4 percent who scan QR codes on websites, while 23.5 percent will scan a poster or flyer in a kiosk, followed by business cards and brochures at 13.4 percent. Storefronts and TVs are lesser used sources at 12.8 percent and 11.7 percent, respectively. How many ways could you market your business with a QR code? The potential could be limitless. n Jill Van Hoesen is chief information officer for Johnson Newspapers and a 25-year IT veteran. Contact her at jvanhoesen@wdt.net. Her column appears monthly in NNY Business.

September 2011 | NNY Business

| 37

S M A L L BUSIN E SS SU C C E SS

Preparedness critical for small biz

hen my son was young and I’d make him wear his bicycle helmet before he headed out, he’d say, “Mom, I’m not going to fall and get hurt.” I’d tell him, “Of course you’re not planning on falling. That’s why they call them accidents, kiddo. ” Many small business owners take the same attitude with being (un)prepared for disasters. Thankfully, the north country seems to be pretty safe from tsunamis, mudslides and hurricanes. However, we’ve experienced some serious ice storms, blizzards and microbursts that have seen businesses from Syracuse to Massena close for several days. Then there are the mini-disasters that affect only a few businesses — the fire on Court Street a few years ago, the more recent one in Carthage. Even individual businesses may experience a business-interrupting event — a single-room fire, a burst pipe or vandalism. The small businessperson can’t be protected from every piece of bad news to come down the block. Being prepared for a disaster covers a lot of territory. There are obvious steps to take: Have a fire extinguisher, an alarm system, flashlights and surge protectors. Hopefully you also have good property insurance to cover any physical property that might be lost. But you should also have a disaster plan in place for protecting two of your most important assets: your informa-

tion and your pocketbook. Imagine losing all your customer records, your financial receipts, your supplier contacts, etc. Is that information even possible to replace? How Sarah O’Connell much time will it take before you can be up and running again? Nowadays, most businesses have

while you’re closed and sometimes even temporary location costs. For wide-scale disasters, the U.S. Small Business Administration at times provides direct disaster loans. Physical Disaster Loans cover rebuilding and replacing physical assets, while others are Economic Injury Disaster Loans to replace lost income or refinance loans (for example some parts of northeastern New York are eligible due to the severe flooding this spring). The SBA also provides a great deal of practical information about disaster preparedness practices on its website, www.sba.gov/prepare and through a partnership with Agility Recovery Solutions at www. preparemybusiness.org. September is National Preparedness Month (www.ready.gov). The SBDC is co-sponsoring an event presented by Servpro of Jefferson County on Saturday, Sept. 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Jefferson Community College. Admission is free and the event is open to agencies, businesses, individuals and families. For more information, or if you own a business and wish to reserve exhibit space, contact Rafael Yanouri at Servpro, 777-8377 or rafael. servpro@yahoo.com.

Just as with your homeowner’s insurance, you want to make sure your business is adequately covered. You can obtain business interruption insurance coverage. this information on an in-house computer or computers. But are you backing it up daily or at least weekly? Computer experts recommend that you don’t just use an internal backup hard drive but also have your information stored off-premises, either with a portable drive or on an Internet storage location. Then there’s the financial aspect of overcoming a disaster. Just as with your homeowner’s insurance, you want to make sure your business is adequately covered. For example, you can obtain business interruption insurance coverage that may include profits you would have earned (based on financial history), business expenses that continue to occur even

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

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NNY Business | September 2011

Pierrepont Manor

Saturday, Sept. 17

Thursday, Sept. 15

n Wine Festival and Farmers Market, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Boldt Castle. New York State wineries and agricultural producers. Food, drink and live music. Regular castle admission applies. Cost: $7; children ages 6 to 12, $4.50. Information: www.boldtcastle.com.

Friday, Sept. 30

n 2011 Jefferson Leadership Institute KickOff Dinner, 6 to 8 p.m., Riveredge Resort. Cocktails begin at 6 p.m., dinner and program begin at 7 p.m. To register, contact the Greater-Watertown North Country Chamber of Commerce at 788-4400, chamber@watertownny.com or visit www.watertownny.com.

Saturday, Oct. 1

n Business After Hours, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., the Manor House, 15580 State Route 193. Sponsored by the South Jeff Chamber of Commerce, Creative Imaging, Elliott Realty, HSBC and MacIlvennie Brown Insurance. Cost: $5; non-members, $7. Contact: 232-4215.

Redfield Tuesday, Sept. 20

n Business After Hours, 6 p.m., Crossroads Inn, 4760 County Route 17. Register: 2982213. Information: info@pulaskieasternshorechamber.com or www.pulaskieasternshorechamber.com.

n 8th Annual Oktoberfest, noon to 8 p.m., Thousand Islands Winery. Pig roast, wine and beer, grape crushing demonstrations, grape stomp competitions, hay rides, farmers market and live music, including Enzian German Oompah Band and Bavarian Dancers. Admission: $4. Information, tickets: 482-9306.

Syracuse

Canton

n National Postal Customer Council Day, 10 a.m., Syracuse Post Office, Taft Road. Celebrating 50 years of PCC with a presentation by Albany District Manager Edward Phelan and complimentary lunch during live broadcast from Postmaster General Pat Donahoe. Reservations: Natalie Dolan, 452-3408 or www.cnypcc.org.

Saturday, Sept. 24, and Sunday, Sept. 25

n Local Living Festival, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, Cornell Cooperative Extension Learning Farm, 2043 Route 68. Speakers, workshops, performances, demonstrations, children’s programs, vendors and food. Admission: $5 per person, per day; ages 16 and younger, free. Information: www.sustainableliving project.net or 347-4223.

Henderson Thursday, Sept. 15

n Annual Athena Award Presentation and Dinner, cocktails, 6 p.m., dinner and program, 7 p.m., Ryan’s Lookout. Reservations: 788-4400. Cost: $40 per person; $425 per table.

Malone Saturday, Sept. 17

n Harvest Festival, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Franklin County Fairgrounds. Sponsored by Malone Chamber of Commerce and Cornell Cooperative Extension of Franklin County. To become a sponsor or vendor, contact the chamber at 483-3760.

Old Forge Saturday, Sept. 24, and Sunday, Sept. 25

n Stems and Steins: Wine, Beer and Food Festival, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, George T. Hiltebrant Recreation Center. Sponsored by Arts Guild of Old Forge. Select producers and marketers of New York State wine, beer and food. Information: 369-6411.

es to educate about preparedness in case of emergency or disaster. Free. Information: Rafael Yanouri, 767-1954, Rafael.Servpro@ yahoo.com or Mark Zegarelli, 777-8377.

Thursday, Sept. 22

n September Business After Hours, 5 to 7 p.m., Watertown Daily Times, 260 Washington St. Sponsored by Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce. Must register by noon Wednesday, Sept. 21. Cost: $8; non-members, $12. Register: www.water townny.com.

Wednesday, Oct. 5

n Interview Skills Workshop, 5 to 8 p.m., Jefferson Community College, Extended Learning Center. Learn the basics of interviewing for a job or promotion. Cost: $40. Register: 786-2438.

Thursday, Oct. 6

Wednesday, Sept. 21

n Speed Networking, 7:30 to 10 a.m., Centerstate CEO Headquarters, 572 S. Salina St. Cost: $10; non-member, $20. Register: www.centerstateceo.com or 470-1997.

n Small Business Accounting Workshop, 6 to 8 p.m., Jefferson Community College, Extended Learning Center. Basic bookkeeping, income tax filing, in conjunction with the SBDC Entrepreneurial Training Course. Cost: $40. Register: 786-2438.

Monday, Oct. 10

Watertown

n 8th Annual Business of Women Networking Conference, Jefferson Community College. Created by Sarah O’Connell, Watertown SBDC, and Jennifer Huttemann-Kall, Community Bank, to address professional networking needs of all women. Keynote speaker: Joleene DesRosiers. For more information or to join the event mailing list, visit www.facebook.com/businessofwomen.

Friday, Sept. 9

Thursday, Oct. 13

n 15th annual North Country Cup Challenge Golf Tournament, 11:30 a.m. registration, 12:30 p.m. start, Willowbrook Golf Club. Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce vs. Fort Drum Garrison. Fourman captain and crew, $37 per person. Entry fee paid at clubhouse on tournament day, includes green fees, golf cart and buffet dinner. Register: www.watertownny.com. Information: Terry Roche, 493-2446.

Thursdays from Sept. 15 to Oct. 27

n Entrepreneurial Training Course, 6 to 9 p.m., Small Business Development Center at Jefferson Community College, 1220 Coffeen St. In partnership with Jefferson County Industrial Development Agency, Watertown Local Development Corp. and M&T Bank. Developing and expanding a new or existing business plan. Those who complete the course are eligible for low-interest, microenterprise loans. Cost: $195. Registration and course fee payment are required by Monday, Sept. 12. Register: 782-9262.

Saturday, Sept. 17

n National Preparedness Month Expo, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Jefferson Community College. Sponsored by Servpro, JCC, FEMA and the Ready.gov campaign. Exhibitors include American Red Cross, Jefferson County Emergency Management and local business-

n Insurance Options for Small Business, 6 to 8 p.m., Small Business Development Center at Jefferson Community College. Learn the types of insurance, what is required by law or contract and what is deemed necessary. Taught by John Gould. Cost: $40. Register: 786-2233.

Wednesday, Oct. 19

n Business Networking Expo, Dulles State Office Building. Sponsored by the Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce. Information: www.watertown ny.com.

Wellesley Island Saturday, Sept. 17

n Fourth annual Golf-O-Rama, 8:30 a.m. registration, 10 a.m. start, Thousand Islands Country Club. Benefits the River Hospital Foundation. Mixed teams and men’s teams. Cash prizes. Information, register: River Hospital Foundation, 482-4976.  GOT A BUSINESS EVENT or calendar item? Email editor Ken Eysaman at keysaman@wdt.net. Submission deadline is the 10th of each month for the following month’s issue. Visit us on Facebook at www.face book.com/NNYBusiness for updates to our business events calendar.

COMMUNITY / BUSINESS EVENTS CALENDAR

Alexandria Bay

September 2011 | NNY Business

| 39

chambeR / WEB directory

NNY CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

649-3404, www.chaumontchamber.com

393-3620, www.ogdensburgny.com

 Clayton

 Old Forge

 Greater WatertownNorth Country

 Potsdam

517 Riverside Drive, Clayton, NY 13624; 686-3771, www.1000islands-clayton.com

 Alexandria Bay

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

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

 Boonville

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

 Gouverneur

 CaNTON

60 Main St., P.O. Box 369, Canton, NY 13617; 386-8255, www.cantonnychamber.org

 Henderson Harbor

 Sackets Harbor

 Lewis County

 Carthage Area

 Massena

7576 S. State St., Lowville, NY 13367; 376-2213, www.lewiscountychamber.org 50 Main St., Massena, NY 13662; 7693525, www.massenachamber.com

 Centerstate CEO

 Malone

 Chaumont-Three Mile Bay

 Ogdensburg

572 S. Salina St., Syracuse, NY 13202; 470-1800, www.centerstateceo.com P.O. Box 24, Three Mile Bay, NY 13693;

BIZ Web DIRECTORY CITEC Manufacturing & Technology Solutions www.citec.org

Clarkson University Center for Entrepreneurship www.helpmysmallbusinesstoday.com www.facebook.com/CUEntrepCtr www.twitter.com/CUEntrepCtr

Development Authority of the North Country www.danc.org

Lewis County Industrial Development Agency

 Pulaski

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

175 N. James St., P.O. Box 482, Cape Vincent, NY 13618; 654-2481, www.capevincent.org 120 S. Mechanic St., Carthage, NY 13619; 493-3590, www.carthageny.com

1 Market St., Potsdam, NY 13676; 274-9000, www.potsdamchamber.com

214 E. Main St., Gouverneur, NY 13642; 287-0331, www.gouverneurchamber.net P.O. Box 468, Henderson Harbor, NY 13651; 938-5568, www.hendersonharborny.com

 Cape Vincent

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

497 East Main St., Malone, NY 12953; 1(518) 483-3760, www.visitmalone.com 1 Bridge Plaza, Ogdensburg, NY 13669;

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

 South Jefferson

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

 St. Lawrence

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

 Tri-Town

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

Jefferson County Job Development Corp.

St. Lawrence River Valley Redevelopment Agency

Procurement Technical Assistance Center

U.S. Small Business Administration

www.jcjdc.net

www.northcountryptac.com

Small Business Development Center at SUNY jefferson

www.slrvra.com

www.sba.gov www.facebook.com/SBAAtlantic www.twitter.com/SBAAtlantic

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

Watertown Local Development Corp.

St. Lawrence County IDA / Local Development Corp.

Watertown SCORE

www.slcida.com

www.watertownldc.com

www.scorewatertownny.org

www.lcida.org

40 |

NNY Business | September 2011

BUSIN E SS S C E N E Lewis County General Hospital 80th birthday celebration

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

Top, from left, Barbara N. Maresca, and husband, Dr. Michael Maresca, St. Lawrence Radiology, and Dr. Daryl S. Henderson, radiologist, Lewis County General Hospital. Above, from left, Col. Mark W. Thompson, M.D., commander, U.S. Army Medical Department Activity, Fort Drum, and wife, Kathleen. On Aug. 4, Lewis County General Hospital celebrated its 80th birthday at its Lowville campus.

Top, from left, Katie D. O’Brien, Lewis County General Hospital Foundation, Tina M. Schell, laboratory technician, Lewis County General Hospital, Kathy M. Millard, director of education, LCGH, Cathy E. Lewandowski, clinical coordinator, LCGH. Above, from left, Dr. M. Lynn Pisaniello, family physician, Lewis County General Hospital, and Karen S. Borawski, audiologist, LCGH.

OPEN MAY-OCTOBER

Spend The Day on the Farm!

n VISIT NNY BUSINESS ON FACEBOOK at www. facebook.com/ nnybusiness to view more than 300 additional Business Scene photos from events across the north country since December.

Visit and learn about 1000 animals! Tour a modern dairy on the Moo Town Trolley!

PUMPKINS FOR A PURPOSE! All pumpkins are donated to Garrett’s Fund! Open Daily 10:00am • Sackets Harbor • 583-5737

www.OldMcDonaldHasAFarm.com

September 2011 | NNY Business

| 41

BUSIN E SS S C E N E 3rd Annual Bobcats, Bears & Brews at the New York State Zoo at Thompson Park

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

Top, from left, Kris M. Austill, David W. Cean, Harbor Marina, Dr. Melanie A. Parker-Geurtson, D.V.M., Cow Calls Inc., and husband, David B. Geurtson, Conboy, McKay, Bachman & Kendall, LLP, Watertown. Above, from left, Reg J. Schweitzer, Neighbors of Watertown, Rod H. Voss, Fort Drum Environmental Division, and wife, Jen L., Jefferson County Planning Department, and E. Hartley Bonisteel, Jefferson County Planning Department. The New York State Zoo at Thompson Park hosted its 3rd Annual Bobcats, Bears & Brews event to benefit the zoo on Friday, Aug. 12. The fundraising event featured food and beer from local vendors.

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

Top, from left, Michelle K. Davidson, art teacher, Watertown City School District, and husband, D. Eric, Davidson Automotive Group, Watertown Center. Above, from left, Tom Laney, Fort Drum, and wife, Heather.

Bellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Clayton - 315-686-2341

Serving Breakfast & Lunch Daily 8am to 4pm

Fine Dining On The River Thursday-Monday 5pm to 8pm Web: bellasonlinenow.com

42 |

NNY Business | September 2011

Email: mringerhardy@yahoo.com

BUSIN E SS S C E N E 3rd Annual Bobcats, Bears & Brews at the New York State Zoo at Thompson Park

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

Top, from left, Lauren Sischo, Rodman, Lori Cobb, Adams, and Lynn Sischo, Rodman. Above, from left, Rudy J. Rodriguez, HSBC, Watertown, and Susanne M. Brodeur, HSBC, Watertown.

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

Top, from left, Jenn. J. Danielsen, and father, Frank G., Consumer Credit Counseling, Watertown. Above, from left, Jim R. Brooker, Otis Technology, and wife, Aimee P., Otis Technology, Brittany C. Williams, Otis Technology, and husband, Nick O., vice president of engineering, Otis Technology, Lyons Falls.

September 2011 | NNY Business

| 43

BUSIN E SS S C E N E GWNC Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours at Highland Meadows Golf Club

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

Top, from left, Melanie I. Upson-Rafferty, president, Cortel Improvement, Black River, and Kenneth R. Piarulli, financial advisor, Ameriprise Financial, Watertown. Above, from left, Joe Natali, branch manager, Tracey Road Equipment, Adams Center, Paul Luck, partner, Rivershore Associates Inc., and wife, Mary, Clayton. Highland Meadows Golf and Country Club hosted the Greater WatertownNorth Country Chamber of Commerce August Business After Hours at its Watertown clubhouse.

44 |

NNY Business | September 2011

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

Top, from left, Eric Sharlow, employee benefit specialist, Stephen C. Foy Inc., Kim Peterson, Knowlton Technologies, Rebecca Stone, assistant vice president, Farm Credit East, and Amanda E. GatesShult, mortgage specialist, Country Living from Farm Credit East. Above, from left, Audrey A. Sargent, Hi-Lite Markings, Adams Center, Dennis Baeslack, vice president, member benefits, Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce.

BUSIN E SS S C E N E GWNC Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours at Highland Meadows Golf Club

KEN EYSAMAN PHOTOS | NNY BUSINESS

Top, from left, Cindy M. Sawyer, Jefferson County Airport, Jim Lawrence, Jefferson County Airport, and Kelly E. Reinhardt, director of business development and community relations, Bernier, Carr and Associates, Watertown. Above, from left, Shelley J. Lofberg, and husband, Carl A., owners, Papa John’s Pizza & Arby’s Restaurant, Watertown and Evans Mills.

Top, from left, Kristy J. McCormick, First Command Financial, Evans Mills, and Rebecca M. Mabry, AmeriCU Credit Union, Watertown. Above, from left, Mallory B. Davis, Kimberly R. Soto, and Christina M. Cunningham, all of Papa John’s Pizza & Arby’s Restaurant, Watertown and Evans Mills.

September 2011 | NNY Business

| 45

D ININ G G UI D E Brownville Diner 114 W. Main St., Brownville (315) 786-8554

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bernardo’s Pizzeria 702 Coffeen St., Watertown (315) 782-9500

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

Hops Spot 214.5 W. Main St., Sackets Harbor (315) 646-BEER (2337)

B J’s Grill 610 Mill St., Watertown (315) 782-8126

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

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

Black River Valley Club 131 Washington St., Watertown (315) 788-2300

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

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

Blue Heron 12050 Route 12E, Chaumont (315) 649-2240

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

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

Boathouse 214 W. Main St., Sackets Harbor (315) 646-2092

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

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

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

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

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

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

Full-service restaurants 1025 Ruyi Japanese Steak House 1025 Arsenal St., Watertown (315) 405-4501 1844 House “An American Bistro” 6885 U.S. Route 11, Potsdam (315) 268-1844 2000 Chinese Restaurant 22070 U.S. Route 11, Watertown (315) 788-2000 Arbor Restaurant 10700 U.S. Route 11, Adams (315) 232-4842 A & J’s Diner 455 Court St., Watertown (315) 777-4811 Andy’s Caribbean Cuisine 302 Court St., Watertown (315) 777-8658 Apollo Restaurant 1283 Arsenal St., Watertown (315) 788-3569 Art’s Jug 820 Huntington St., Watertown (315) 782-9764 Bella’s Bistro 602 Riverside Drive, Clayton (315) 686-2341

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

Lloyd’s of Lowville 7405 S. State St., Lowville (315) 376-7037 Lucia’s Italian Restaurant 11613 U.S. Route 11, Adams (315) 232-2223 Maggie’s on the River 500 Newell St., Watertown (315) 405-4239 Mariano’s Pizza 981 Waterman Drive, Watertown (315) 788-8088 McCarthy’s Restaurant 5821 U.S. Route 11, Canton (315) 386-2564 Midway Ice Cream 891 Coffeen St., Watertown (315) 405-4996 Mo’s Place 345 Factory St., Watertown (315) 782-5503 Morgia’s Pasta 22560 Fisher Road, Watertown (315) 788-3509 Mr. Sub Sandwich Shop Public Square & Mill St., Watertown (315) 782-1760 NuPier 13212 State Route 3, Sackets Harbor (315) 646-3312 Italian Pizza 222 N. Massey St., Watertown (315) 786-0000 Papa Tino’s Pizzeria 716 Mill St., Watertown (315) 782-7272 Pete’s Restaurant 111 Breen Ave., Watertown (315) 782-6640

46 |

NNY Business | September 2011

D ININ G G UI D E Pizza Shack 12699 State Route 3, Sackets Harbor (315) 646-2267 Rainbow Shores Restaurant 186 Rainbow Shores Road, Pulaski (315) 298-5110 Rajit 262 Arsenal St., Watertown (315) 782-5513

Read the reviews

 Log on to www.watertowndaily times.com to read restaurant reviews by Watertown Daily Times restaurant critic Walter Siebel.

Get on the list

Ramada Inn 21000 State Route 3, Watertown (315) 788-0700

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

Riccardo’s Market & Deli 710 Holcomb St., Watertown (315) 782-7810

Shuler’s Steak & Seafood 802 Mill St., Watertown (315) 782-1429

Riverhouse 4818 Salina St., Pulaski (315)509-4281

Soluri’s Pizza 526 Factory St., Watertown (315) 782-2888

Roberts Family Pizzeria 839 State St., Watertown (315) 786-2006

Stonefence Resort 7191 State Route 37, Ogdensburg (315) 393-1545

Roma Restaurant 19 Bridge St., Carthage (315) 493-0616

Stone Jug Pizzeria 104 Bartlett Road, Sackets Harbor (315) 646-1008

Romalato’s Gourmet Deli 450 Gaffney Drive, Watertown (315) 681-6653

Suk Hui Hi’s Korean 1301 State St., Watertown (315) 785-9740

Ryan’s Lookout 9290 State Route 3, Henderson (315) 938-5151

Super Wok Chinese Restaurant 20991 State Route 3, Watertown (315) 788-5389

Sackets Harbor Brew Pub 212 W. Main St., Sackets Harbor (315) 646-2739

Teriyaki Experience 21852 Towne Center Drive, Watertown (315) 785-9254

Sandy’s Luncheonette 5 Public Square, Watertown (315) 782-2935

Thailand Thai Restaurant 1857 State St., Watertown (315) 788-6688

Savory Café 1511 Washington St., Watertown (315) 785-6464

The Place 1612 Ford St., Ogdensburg 315-393-3080

Savory Downtown 300 Washington St., Watertown (315) 782-8000

Tico’s Mex Mex Grill 65 Public Square, Watertown (315) 836-4778

Sboro’s Restaurant 836 Coffeen St., Watertown (315) 788-1728

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

Shorty’s Place 1280 Coffeen St., Watertown (315) 782-7878

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

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

Clueless 545 Arsenal St., Watertown (315) 782-9006 Crazy Legs Saloon 536 Arsenal St., Watertown (315) 777-8333

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coffee Houses

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

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

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

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

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

Coffee Shop Carbone Plaza, Watertown (315) 782-0450 Danny’s Coffee 21181 Salmon Run Mall, Watertown (315) 782-7057 Paddock Coffee House 4 Paddock Arcade, Watertown (315) 836-1508

Pewter Mug 1120 Gill St., Watertown (315) 782-0200 Seth’s Pub 558 State St., Watertown (315) 681-6645

Bars / drinking establishments

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

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

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

Cucina Cavallario’s Italian Kitchen with a Difference 133 N. Massey Street Watertown • 788-9744

Accepting Reservations Now for

Mayor’s Ball Dining

Also, Book Your Special Holiday Festivities in our Private, Beautifully Decorated Dining Room – Seats up to 40! Fresh Seasonal Local Vegetables and Herbs, Wild Caught Fresh Seafood, USDA Prime and Choice Cuts of Aged Beef, Traditional & Signature Italian Fare. Serving Lunch Monday through Friday, 11:00am-3:00pm – Serving Dinner Monday through Saturday 4:30pm • Closed on Sunday

September 2011 | NNY Business

| 47

BUSIN E SS H IS T O R Y

A man about town

n Huested a prolific photographer, businessman, historian By Lenka Walldroff

Jefferson County Historical Society

erbert R. Huested was a prolific local photographer who captured many aspects of life in early Watertown. His photographs of storefronts, businesses, adults, children with their pets, even farmers in their fields, have added to our understanding of what life may have been like in Watertown during the first half of the 20th century. The very first Huested studio was opened by Herbert Huested’s father, George P. Huested, and his brother, Ralph W. Huested. The Huesteds were traveling photographers who came to the Mannsville area in 1873, setting up their first photography studio on a horse drawn wagon. In later years, the Huested brothers worked out of more permanent studios in Belleville, Adams, Sackets Harbors, Ellisburg, Camden and Orwell; their business offices were set up in Sandy Creek and Lacona. Herbert Huested was born to this entrepreneurial family in May of 1874. Herbert Huested learned the photography trade from his father, as well as the art of capturing people’s personalities on film, often traveling with his father between the family’s various studios in Mannsville, Adams and Sandy Creek. Those familiar with the Huested Studio think of the famous Watertown location at 119 Stone St. Herbert opened this studio with his father in 1904, but soon after bought out his father’s share in the

48 |

JEFFERSON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

business. In 1919, Huested moved his studio to 241-243 Washington St., which was at that time located just south of the Flower Memorial Library. He operated from that building until he closed the business in 1943. Looking through the Huested catalogue, Herbert Huested seems to have photographed almost all of Watertown’s citizenry, from well-known individuals like Emma Flower Taylor and Orville Hungerford to ordinary people. Being photographed by Huested was a special occasion and Huested, in turn, photographed many occasions. Listed among his catalogue are pictures of

NNY Business | September 2011

Top, 20th century photographer Herbert R. Huested’s studio at 119 Stone St. Above, a portrait of Herbert R. Huested. Right, a portrait taken by Mr. Huested of Mrs. Frederic Huntington with her dogs.

On exhibit n The Jefferson County Historical Society, 228 Washington St., exhibits the stories and artifacts of many founding settlers and businesses of the north country. The newest JCHS exhibit, “Our Towns — The Originals,” highlights the 11 original towns of Jefferson County and some of the people and businesses from the 1800s. For museum hours and program updates and to learn more about the Jefferson County Historical Society, visit www.jeffersoncountyhistory.org.

brides and grooms, baptized children and funerary photographs. After Herbert Huested’s death in 1944, the Jefferson County Historical Society acquired more than 15,000 of his glass plate negatives that spanned four decades. The Huested Collection is available for researchers of our local history. Contact the Jefferson County Historical Society for an appointment and to discuss the subject of research. Reprinted copies can be created for purchase. n Lenka P. Walldroff is curator of collections for the Jefferson County Historical Museum. She is a former museum specialist and conservator at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.

N E X T M ON T H

n our October cover story, we examine the impact of nonprofits on the north country with an eye toward their future. Also coming next month: n RICARDO’S MARKET & DELICATESSEN is Watertown’s only Italian import store. Its staff dishes up homemade Italian specialties made fresh daily. We go behind the doors to learn some of the secrets that makes this business a hit. n TAUNY at 25 Canton-based nonprofit Traditional Arts in Upstate New York hits a major milestone this year. We visit with its founder to see what’s made his effort endure. n BELLEVILLE’S BARLEY PUB is the latest venture for a family that also owns two other popular businesses in the heart of this small town. We a look at a serious commitment to small business. n PLUS: NNY Snapshot, Economically Speaking, Commerce Corner, Nonprofits Today, Business Tech Bytes, Small Business Success, Real Estate, Agri-Business, Business History, Business Scene and more. n FOLLOW US ON Twitter for daily updates at @NNYBusinessMag and visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/nnybusiness.

September 2011 | NNY Business

| 49

W H AT ’ S H A P P E NIN G H E R E ? The Lodge at ives Hill Location: 1201 Ives St., Watertown COST: $3.5 million SIZE: 13,721 square feet with 10 studio units and eight one-bedroom units OWNERS: Individual assisted-living facility at Ives Hill Retirement Community ESTIMATED COMPLETION DATE: Nov. 30. LOCAL JOBS: Several dozen construction jobs; about a dozen residential health care jobs including an administrator, receptionist, licensed practical nurses, personal care aides, dietary aides and housekeepers. GENERAL CONTRACTOR: Purcell Construction Corp., Watertown Architect: GYMO Architecture, Engineering & Land Surveying, Watertown PROJECT FINANCING: Watertown Savings Bank

AMANDA MORRISON | NNY BUSINESS

RESIDENT LIVING COST: $4,000 to $5,000 a month, self-pay

Construction on the Lodge at Ives Hill Inc. continues off Ives Street in Watertown. The $3.5 million assistedliving facility is expected to be complete by Dec. 1. With 10 studio and eight one-bedroom units slated for occupancy, residents can expect to pay between $4,000 and $5,000 a month for a spot in the facility.

— Compiled by Ken Eysaman

b u i ld i n g perm i t s n Second-quarter 2011 building permits issued in the city of Watertown (April 1-June 30, 2011)

ALTERATIONS APRIL

1, Rear drive over-hang 434 Flower Ave., $5,000 4, Unspecified, 116 Haley St., $200 4, Interior second/third floor, 213 Factory St., $251,856 6, Interior, 826 Washington St., Suite 302, $43,750 14, Unspecified, 585 Rand Drive $100,000 15, Unspecified, 327 Indiana Ave., $500

MAY

2, Demolition/alteration, 200 Willow St., $1,808,000 3, Demolition/alteration, 156 Clinton St., $10,000 20, Platform, 616 LeRay St., $1,700 23, Unspecified, Bugbee Drive, $8,600 23, Duplex, 146 Central St., $2,000 24, Unspecified, Monroe Ave., $3,000 26, Unspecified, Parker St., $75,000

JUNE

3, Deck, 933 LeRay St., $5,000 7, Industrial center, 800 Starbuck Ave., $6,000 8, Unspecified, 417 Washington St., $1 15, Roof system, 114 Highland Ave., $1,200 20, Demolition/abatement, 1425 Washington St., $326,300 27, Installation, 719 Washington St., $20,000 28, Unspecified, 363 Brainard St., $9,300 28, Unspecified, 156 Bellew Ave., $15,000 30, Unspecified, 212 Hamilton St., $5,000

ADDITIONS APRIL

566 Coffeen St., $55,000 8, 20-by-22 addition, 277 Ontario Drive, $29,940 15, Extend rear porch, 419 Ten Eyck St., $7,000 20, 8-by-20 front deck, 227 Eastern Blvd., $470 28, Addition, 1180 Commerce Park Drive, $26,580

MAY

11, 12-by-20 rear deck, 137 Bishop St., $2,000 17, 12-by-16 storage shed, 847 Cooper St., $1,100 26, Wood frame, 1316 Sherman St., $1,000

JUNE

2, Extension, 746 Ball Ave., $10,000 2, Deck, 721 Davidson St., $4,890 8, Door, 357 Rutland St., $500 10, Side and rear addition, 123 Division St., $44,000 21, Addition, 561 Burdick St., $1,200

NEW CONSTRUCTION APRIL

DEMOLITIONS APRIL

12, Demo four buildings, 215 Maywood Terrace, $864,000 14, Demo barn, 391 Hunt St., $500 18, Demo garage, 351 Colorado Ave., $400 19, Demo front porch, 1015 Ferguson Ave., $500 21, Demo garage (fire), 906 Franklin St., $500

MAY

1, New administration building, 1398 Gotham St., $2,508,073 6, Storage shed, 318 Hamilton St., $5,850 12, 20-by-20 garage, 663 Burchard St., $12,000 15, Demo garage and build 8-by-14 shed, 148 Park Ave., $2,500 20, Install 14-by-24 garage, 610 Grant St., $4,500 28, 10-by-10 shed, 639 Olive St., $2,100

11, Demo pool shed, 341 Moffett St., $500 19, Demo, 424 Vanduzee St., $1

MAY

9, Install 12-by-24 garage, 322 Ten Eyck St., $15,860 26, Variance, 148 Park Ave., $27,500 31, Garage, 615 Hamilton St., $19,985 31, 24-by-28 garage, 207 Cedar St., $18,200

JUNE

1, Office storage and mechanical,

2, Assisted living, 1201 Ives St., $2,050,000 2, Demo-replace store, 1255 Arsenal St.,

50 |

NNY Business | September 2011

$925,000 6, 1611 Columbia St., $18,000 7, Storage shed, 1338 Richards Drive, $4,362 8, Storage barn, 186 Boon St., $4,419 9, Barn, 616 Lansing St., $2,800 16, Swimming pool, 172 Palmer St., $7,600 17, New house, 126 Lynde St., $70,000 20, Pre-fab, 489 Barben Ave., $4,785 21, Shed, 311 Hamilton St., $1,000

JUNE

6, 814 Pearl St., $460 13, Demo, 853 Emmett St., $450 27, Demo garage, 135 Colorado Ave., $500

CONVERSIONS 26, Conversion, 821 Arsenal St., $19,763

Repair/maintenence

n 140 permits issued totaling $676,060

$10,149,255 Total declared construction value

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