2019 Sky’s the Limit
JANUARY 2019
DUTCHESS COUNTY REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
See page 14
Bottom Line
Economic report unveiled at Contact Breakfast
Contact Breakfast sponsored by
sponsors. The Fiscal Policy Institute (FPI) is an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit research and education organization committed to improving public policies and private practices to better the economic and social conditions of all New Yorkers. Founded in 1991, FPI works to create a strong economy in which prosperity is broadly shared. FPI works to increase public and governmental understanding of issues related to the fairness of New York’s tax system and the stability and adequacy of state and local public services. Dr. Shaende will discuss the economic outlook for New York State and the Hudson Valley for 2019, including the Fis-
Dr. Shaende cal Policy Institute’s new report, “The State of Working New York.” Our January Contact Breakfast is sponsored by Rondout Savings Bank. Established in 1868, Rondout Savings Bank is a statechartered, mutual banking and financial services provider head-
quartered in Kingston. As of 2017 Rondout Savings Bank had over $351 million in total assets and is committed to investing a percentage of their annual profit back into the community each year. They have provided financial services to thousands of businesses and households throughout the Hudson Valley area. Rondout Savings Bank has seven locations in Kingston, West Hurley, and Hyde Park, and operates divisions in asset management, personal banking and business banking. Give them a call at 845.331.0073 or visit them at rondoutbank.com. Chamber members and guests will need to pre-register for the January Contact Breakfast by visiting dcrcoc.org or calling 845.454.1700 x 1000. Tickets are $25 for members, and $35 for non-members.
Business After Hours heads to Shadows on the Hudson
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oin us for our monthly Business After Hours on Wednesday, January 23 from 5 – 7 PM for networking, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar. This month we head to Shadows on the Hudson located at 176 Rinaldi Boulevard in Poughkeepsie. Shadows on the Hudson is an award-winning waterfront restaurant perched above the Hudson River. Enjoy their one-of-a-kind views of the Mid-Hudson Bridge to the north and miles of open river to the south. Shadows on the Hudson is an integral part of the Hudson Valley community, hosting both public and private events. This event is complimentary to attend thanks to our generous spon-
sors Quint Investments and Insurance, and Residential Home Funding Corp. Registration is required in advance. To RSVP, visit dcroc.org or call 845.454.1700 x 1000. Quint Investments and Insurance is dedicated to providing risk and investment management in conjunction with strategic wealth planning for individuals, families, and
businesses. Simply put, they function as a trusted advisor for clients. As an insurance agency and registered investment advisory firm, Quint Investment and Insurances primary focus is to provide unbiased opinions that are designed to achieve long term results. For more information, please visit quintii.com. Residential Home Funding Corp. offers a wide array of mortgage products, competitive rates and some of the most talented and dedicated employees in the industry. Operating for over 16 years, their experience enables them to fund all types of mortgage transactions, including basic residential purchases, refinances, investment properties, renovation loans, mixed
Firmbach & Firmbach Certified Public Accountants
CHAMBER WINTER WEATHER POLICY: In the event of inclement weather, visit the Chamber’s website and Facebook page by 6:30 AM for updates regarding events and committee meetings. The status of afternoon meetings, ribbon cuttings and events will be posted accordingly.
Message from the Chair ............................ 2 Small Business Partner ............................. 2
use, and more. They are one of the largest lenders in the country, licensing direct lenders in 13 states. At Residential Home Funding Corp. each customer is taken care of, and treated like family. For more information, please visit rhfunding.com.
Message from the Chamber President ............ 4
Business After Hours sponsored by
Member News .......................................13
Upcoming Events .................................... 5 New Members ....................................... 8 Ribbon Cutting Celebrations ......................10 Chamber Foundation ..............................12
Workforce Development Center ..................15
A Family Accounting practice Our family has been serving the Hudson Valley’s Accounting needs for the last 50 years.
Call and ask for Karl or Rudy 845-454-5440 w w w . F i r m b a c h C P A s . c o m
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he Chamber’s January Contact Breakfast will feature keynote speaker Dr. Jonas J. N. Shaende, Chief Economist from the Fiscal Policy Institute, on Wednesday, January 16 at 7:30 AM at the Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel & Conference Center. Chamber President and CEO Frank Castella, Jr., will also provide brief State of the Chamber remarks, looking ahead to plans and initiatives in 2019, and recognizing new Board members and corporate
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Take a moment to be thankful Officers Jennifer Dunn, Chair ................State Farm Insurance - The Jen Dunn Agency, Inc. William Francis, 1st Vice Chair..............................Fortress Financial Advisory, LLC Scott Pawenski, 2nd Vice Chair...................................................Branding Pros Lauren Gillett, Treasurer ............................................ The Chazen Companies David Bova, Secretary.....................................Millbrook Vineyards & Winery Jeffrey B. Senft, Past Chair ...........................S&O Construction Services, Inc. Stephen E. Diamond, Of Counsel ......Stenger, Roberts, Davis & Diamond, LLP Directors Valerie Belton ...................................................................UIster Savings Bank Philip Bronzi ......................................................................... Rhinebeck Bank Evelyn Constantino .......................................Royal Carting Service Company Filomena Fanelli .................................... Impact PR & Communications, Ltd. Joline Frey .......................................................MidHudson Regional Hospital Freddimir Garcia ...................................................................... Marist College Lawrence Holzapfel ............. Quality Environmental Solutions & Technologies Susan L. Howell CPA ............................................................. RBT CPAs, LLP Maureen Kangas...................Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel & Conference Center Vincent Lemma............................... Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency, LLC Michael Mullaney............................................. Hudson Cadillac Buick GMC Stewart Petrovits .................................................Blacktop Maintenance Corp. Michael Samuelson.....................................................................Health Quest Catherine Secor ................................................................................ TD Bank Frank Smith ..................................................... Marshall & Sterling Insurance Mike Spinelli ................................................................................... TaxBrakes Denise Doring VanBuren .................. Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corp. Mary Kay Vrba ............................................................Dutchess Tourism, Inc. Tina Walz ................................................................................... M & T Bank Stephen A. Whalen..........................................................Whalen Architecture Gregory White ..............................................................Adams Fairacre Farms Associate Board Members Geoff Brault ..........................................................Walkway Over the Hudson Julia Pagones ................................................................... CareMount Medical Chamber Staff Frank Castella, Jr. ................................................................ President & CEO Audra B. Gerty .............................................Executive Vice President & CFO Rich Kleban .................................................... Senior Vice President & COO Steve Bleier .....................................Membership Development Representative Nancy DeWitt.....................................................Director of Business Services Hannah Early ................................................ Community Relations Specialist Joshua Galow .................................Membership Development Representative Jean Harris .........................................................................Director of Events Ayla Rector..................................................... Marketing & Communications Angela Signor-Brown ..............................................Director of Media Design Chelsea Schwarze ................................................. Member Relations Director The Chamber Foundation Nicholas Shannon .............................................................. Executive Director Lisa Niosi ............................................................................ Business Manager Workforce Development Center Anne De Muro ...................................................Workforce Program Manager Workforce Connections Program Joe Flores.............................................Workforce Connections Case Manager Meredith Madden .................................................Program Data Coordinator Dee Watkins ........................................Workforce Connections Case Manager Youth One Stop Jessica Vitolano.................................................. Youth One Stop Coordinator Rosemary Grabowska ..........................Youth One Stop Assistant Coordinator Danica Pierre-Louis .........................................Youth One Stop Case Manager John Pierre-Louis .............................................Youth One Stop Case Manager Career Action Center Katrina Gobins .............................................Director of Career Action Center Nancy Herrera...................................................Career Action Center Mentor
The Bottom Line is a monthly publication of : The Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce One Civic Center Plaza • Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 845.454.1700 • Fax: 845.454.1702 The Bottom Line • Volume 36 • Number 1 Annual Chamber membership includes a 1-year subscription to The Bottom Line POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce, One Civic Center Plaza, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Online at www.dcrcoc.org, developed by Design Intervention Studio
G
ratitude… If I were to choose just one word to bring in the New Year, it would be “gratitude.” I am humbled and honored to be your Chair for the upcoming year. I have been a small business owner in our community for over a decade and I bring 31 years of experience in the insurance and financial services industry to our community. The Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce has been an integral part of my business’ success and the Chamber’s membership and staff stand out as what I am most grateful for. Throughout the years there has
Message from the Chair:
Jennifer Dunn always been one of our members there to help, whether it was to provide guidance, share an idea, or just a warm welcome. Today, as I reflect on 2018, I am reminded all too well, “the days are long, but the years are short” and I am thankful for each and every moment. Often we spend our time looking for ways
to improve, to grow and to adapt to the changing world, that we forget to take inventory on the present. So for a moment, I ask you to join me in taking a moment to truly think about what you are grateful for as we enter a new year together, and find ways to acknowledge these most precious gifts. Happy New Year! I look forward to a strong and prosperous year for our members, and I hope to see you soon. Jen Dunn – State Farm Agent, is the Chamber’s Board of Directors Chair for 2019. Reach her at (845) 471-3531 or jen.dunn. pwl3@statefarm.com.
Michael Spinelli, Owner
10 Kenneth Drive, Putnam Valley | 845.526.2943 | taxbrakesny.com TaxBrakes provides Tax Preparation Services to individuals and small businesses throughout the Hudson Valley and coast to coast, since 1975. The Chamber’s Small Business Partner of the Month offers small businesses with 12 employees or fewer direct advertising to members and the community through print, electronic, and radio media. If you are interested in this program, contact Josh at 845.454.1700, x 1029.
MEMBERSHIP REFERRALS Refer a new member today! CALL THE CHAMBER AT
845-454-1700 EXT. 1029 CALL THE CHAMBER 845.454.1700 X 1029
THE BOTTOM LINE
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JANUARY 2019
January event targets referrals, connections and opportunity
T
he Chamber’s Network, Present & Refer event (NPR) is a targeted networking event offering a unique opportunity for members to share information with their peers who are other, non-competing profes-
Network, Present & Refer sponsored by
sionals and business owners. NPR returns at 3:30 PM on Wednesday, January 23 at Shadows on the Hudson. Attendees will exchange information on their organization or company—such as a brief business description, promotion of an upcoming event, and sharing brochures and/or business cards—in a roundtable setting. Judelson, Giordano and Siegel, CPA, PC sponsors this event
packed with opportunity to make meaningful connections. One randomly selected attendee will be invited to take 8-10 minutes to present an overview of their organization. The representative from the event sponsor will likewise have the opportunity to present. Guest presenters will be chosen at random from attendees registered at least one week in advance. In order to diversify these
events, members are limited to attending a maximum of two and presenting at one NPR event per year.
Thanks to our generous sponsor, this event is complimentary to attend, but registration is required. Call 845.454.1700 x 1000 to RSVP.
Blacktop Maintenance is now a second-generation company
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
cently the company adopted a GPS surveying service led by Dana’s husband, Scott Wiehe. While Stew concentrates on
the field, Dana manages office operations. The company offers services within a 100-mile radius of Poughkeepsie. It’s small enough to compete with the local contractors but still take on million-dollar contracts. When the great recession hit, BTM managed to keep their team employed by taking a hard look at costs and making operational
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Flavor of the Month features the best of the Hudson Valley. If you would like your favorite place to be featured, call 845.454.1700, x 1029.
pex costs. BTM knows that today’s complex machines mean that dealer service agreements will probably play a larger future role in the company’s fleet maintenance. But for now BTM’s brand is known for their elite machinery and the integrity they display with any project they take on. Last year, BTM was recognized by Equipment World magazine as a top 12 finalist in the Contractor of the Year award. This recognition is a testament to the dedication to detail and service on their projects.
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ave Petrovits started Blacktop Maintenance (BTM) in 1973 focusing on sealing driveways. Stew Petrovits, his son, began working at BTM by mopping floors, and eventually working on crews and returning summers while getting a management degree in college. Daughter, Dana Wiehe currently manages BTM inside operations. She also got her start at BTM working as a flag person while she got her college degree. BTM has diversified over the years, moving into dirt work and paving, which led to the purchase of a sand and gravel operation in the late 1980s. Since the siblings have taken over, BTM has also diversified into recycling and pavement milling. Their services also include excavation, drainage, utility work and concrete paving. Re-
Decorated Apparel • Promotional Products Recognition Awards • Signs & Banners Trade Show Displays BrandingPros.com
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JANUARY 2019
Message from the
Chamber President Frank Castella, Jr.
Take full advantage of Chamber online resources
A
s the New Year begins, I like to take time to reflect back but also to look ahead. It has been a privilege and pleasure to serve as President & CEO of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce, and I cannot wait for this coming year and all of its potential. From proven networking opportunities to encouraging our members to take full advantage of all the tools the Chamber offers to market and promote themselves, 2019 promises to be exciting. We strive to provide our members with resources that support their growth and development. This year as always, remember to Think Local First by visiting our online business directory, as well as our Chamber Events calendar. We continue to work hard to ensure our members are prepared for new federal and state laws, such as the prevention of sexual harassment in the workplace. We have a model policy for employers currently online, and we will be offering training to members that satisfies New York State law. Visit the “Business Resources” page on our website for more information on policy information, our government guide, and other resources pertinent to business owners and employees. This Chamber is part of a winning team of business owners and organizations who together do great things. Moving into 2019, we will remain strong, working with elected officials on behalf the business community. I encourage you to visit our Legislative Action Committee page online for more information on all of our ongoing efforts. I’d like to thank the Board of Directors, the staff, and especially our members, for your continued support. Here is to another great year!
DCRCOC.ORG
Lunch to learn about benefits
W
hether you’re a new member or finally getting around to realizing your benefits, a great way to launch your efforts is by attending our next Master Your Membership Lunch event on Wednesday, January 9 from 11:30 AM -1 PM in the Chamber’s boardroom. Attendees will meet Chamber staff and learn how the departments of membership, events, and communications work together, as well as how The Chamber Foundation and Workforce Development Center operate for the benefit of members. Information about all the services included with your dues
Master Your Membership Lunch sponsored by
will be provided, so this will be a great opportunity to ask questions. Master your Membership Luncheon is a complimentary event thanks to our sponsor, Branding Pros. Special thanks to Myrecipe4life, LLC for providing lunch. Branding Pros continues to be the premier “go to” for local professionals when it comes to putting your logo on just about anything. When they say local, they mean it. Their in-house capabilities include embroidery, screen-printing, direct to garment printing, laser engraving, banner printing and more. More
than 85% of business is customized right in their facility by your neighbors in the community. Understanding their customers’ needs and doing everything they can to satisfy those requirements is what makes them successful. As their slogan says: “Imagine your logo everywhere… Let’s make it happen.” For more information about Branding Pros, please visit brandingpros.com. Please note, because of space limitations, only one representative per company may attend. Phone or email reservations only, call 845.454.1700 x1000 or email frontdesk@dcrcoc.org.
HVYP Toy Drive brings cheer to local children
Sincerely,
Frank M. Castella, Jr., President & CEO
Thank you to everyone who contributed to the Hudson Valley Young Professionals' Toy Drive and to our volunteers for helping to bring all of the toys to Hudson Valley Community Services. Special thanks to the sponsors Foam & Wash and Guardian Self Storage.
THE BOTTOM LINE
UPCOMING
EVENTS Wednesday, January 9
Master Your Membership Lunch 11:30 AM - 1 PM Chamber Conference Room 1 Civic Center Plaza, 4th Floor Poughkeepsie Meet the Chamber staff and learn how the departments of membership, events, communications, The Chamber Foundation, and Workforce Development Center operate for the benefit of members. Information about all the services included with your membership dues will be provided and this is a great opportunity to ask questions. Please, only one representative per company. Call 845.454.1700, x 1000 or email: frontdesk@dcrcoc.org Sponsored by: Branding Pros
Monthly contact breakfast featuring Jonas J.N. Shaende, Ph.D, Chief Economist, Fiscal Policy Institute to discuss the economic outlook for New York State and the Hudson Valley for 2019, including the Fiscal Policy Institute's new report, "The State of Working New York." Sponsored by: Rondout Savings Bank
Wednesday, January 16
1RQSURŵW 3DQHO HR Best Practices 9 - 11 AM Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel & Conference Center 40 Civic Center Plaza Poughkeepsie
The Nonprofit Committee presents a panel discussion focused on finding and hiring the right employees and volunteers. This event will be freeflowing and allow for ample Q&A. Sponsored by: Thrivent Financial and Gilday Creative, Inc.
Wednesday, January 23
Chamber Network, Present & Refer
Wednesday, January 16
3:30 - 5 PM Shadows On The Hudson 176 Rinaldi Boulevard Poughkeepsie
7:30 - 9 AM Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel & Conference Center 40 Civic Center Plaza Poughkeepsie
Targeted networking event, limited to 25 Chamber members, one person per industry. Attendees will exchange information on his or her organization or company such as a brief business description, promoting upcoming events, and
Contact Breakfast
5
JANUARY 2019 sharing brochures and/or business cards in a roundtable setting. Sponsored by: Judelson, Giordano and Siegel, CPA, PC
Wednesday, January 23
Business After Hours
5 - 7 PM Shadows On The Hudson 176 Rinaldi Boulevard Poughkeepsie Monthly networking event. Sponsored by: Quint Investments and Insurance, and Residential Home Funding
Tuesday, January 29
HVYP Unwind Networking Event
delicious cuisine, decadent cocktails, delightful company and dance the night away to celebrate some of the best in local business. Our annual gala is a premier black-tie event, featuring extended cocktail hour, full three course dinner, premium open bar and great music. For sponsors and more info, visit dcrcoc.org/gala
UPCOMING
RIBBON CUTTINGS SPONSORED BY
CHAMBER COMMITTEES ARE HARD AT WORK
Tuesday, January 15
Farmers and Chefs
STAY CURRENT AND GET INVOLVED.
Noon 40 Albany Street Poughkeepsie
GO TO DCRCOC.ORG & CLICK “COMMITTEES” TO SEE UPDATES
5 - 7 PM Tiki Temple 206 Main Street Poughkeepsie
Join us in celebrating the new location.
DCRCOC
Join the Hudson Valley Young Professionals for an Unwind networking event. Complimentary appetizers and a cash bar will be available. Sponsored by: Talex Media LLC
Check out
dcrcoc.org/radio-shows d for links to the Chamber radio shows each week!
Saturday, February 2
For info, call 845.454.1700 x 1000 or frontdesk@dcrcoc.org
6N\ V WKH /LPLW *DOD 5:30 - 11 PM The Grandview 176 Rinaldi Boulevard Poughkeepsie
CR Properties Group, LLC
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JANUARY 2019
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Nominations due for awards A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR
2019 Corporate Sponsors CORPORATE LEADERS:
CORPORATE PARTNERS:
Bonura Hospitality Group DCH Wappingers Falls Toyota Hudson Valley Audio Visual | iHeartMedia Integrated Enterprise Solutions, Inc. M & T Bank | Poughkeepsie Galleria Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel and Conference Center Poughkeepsie Journal Media | RBT CPAs, LLP Rose & Kiernan, Inc. | Royal Carting Service Company CORPORATE SUPPORTERS
Adams Fairacre Farms | Branding Pros D'Arcangelo & Co., LLP Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union Marshall & Sterling Insurance | N & S Supply Quality Environmental Solutions & Technologies, Inc. Rhinebeck Bank Riverside Bank - A Division of Salisbury Bank and Trust Company
S & O Construction Services, Inc. ServiceMaster Restore by Nest Stenger, Roberts, Davis & Diamond LLP - SRDD Law TEG Federal Credit Union | Tompkins Mahopac Bank COMMUNITY PARTNERS
CareMount Medical, P.C. | Fortress Financial Advisory LLC Greystone Programs, Inc. | Hudson Cadillac-Buick-GMC Judelson, Giordano & Siegel, CPA, PC Mackey Butts & Wise, LLP | Meyer Contracting Corporation MidHudson Regional Hospital Mobile Life Support Services, Inc. | Rondout Savings Bank The Arc of Dutchess | Ulster Savings Bank MEDIA PARTNERS
ABC Go Digital, LLC | Oldies 98.9 | Fox 103.1 Radio Woodstock 100.1
S
ubmissions currently open until January 9th for the Forty Under 40 Mover & Shaker awards! This honorable award is bestowed annually to 40 individuals under the age of 40 who show a strong commitment to the Hudson Valley. A selection committee comprised of former honorees, judge nominations on professional and community
achievements. They score each nomination independently of each other and the Chamber. The scores are tallied to determine the Top 40. Neither the Chamber staff nor any sponsors or partners influence the judging in any way. The awards ceremony—open to the public—is a celebration of these individuals and their accomplishments. You may nominate
more than one person, including yourself. Please submit your nominations by visiting: dcrcoc. org/40Under40 and clicking the red banner.
Sustainable health changes for the New Year Here are some sustainable health changes for the New Year from our Health & Wellness Committee: In creating sustainable changes to your health, start with small, doable things which lead toward creating a habit that will bring you closer to your health goals. Identify areas during your day where you have been falling short on healthy living, and change one thing about that behavior. Drink one less cup of caffeinated beverage, switch from soda to flavored seltzer, drink one more glass of water during the day, brush your teeth instead of having that sweet treat, get up and walk around the block once per day, substitute "junk" snacks with fruit or veggies and yogurt dip, find fun, instead of fault, use positive language when describing yourself, focus on what you want, not on what you don't want. These, and other small changes done daily, will lead toward creating sustainable healthy habits, which will bring positive results in your wellbeing. ~ Bill Linacre, Linacre Family Chiropractic Health and Wellness
Sustainable changes for the New Year: Start by making small adjustments. Pick a few days of the week that you want to eliminate something from your diet or add something into your daily regimen. Tell your friends, family, co-workers because promises to yourself are often unfulfilled; by telling others your goals, it holds you more accountable. Once you are successful with your new changes, you can
add something else! For example Xylitol is a 100% natural, safe and effective substitute for sugar that has less calories and carbohydrates. It is commonly found in gums, candies, toothpaste, and even baked goods. The use of xylitol has many nutritional & dental benefits over traditional sugar and other substitutes. Try swapping some Halloween candy this year with xylitol candies. Visit xylitol.org for additional information. You can purchase xylitol and xylitol products in many grocery stores and on line. Drjohns.com has delicious treats! P.S. xylitol products are NOT safe for dogs. ~ Ashley Witkiewicz, Valley Pediatric Dentistry
I am a firm believer that small changes add up to big results! From a nutritional perspective, there are a variety of things that I recommend daily but if I had to pick my top 2, I would suggest that we up our water intake and get more sleep. They seem so simple but are so very powerful. Shoot for half your body weight in ounces a day and at least 7-8 hours of sleep a night. ~ Alyson Chugerman, Attain True Health
Heart health: A well balanced diet and a daily dose of prayer do wonders for the heart. It keeps the heart pumping efficiently and keeps the spirit alive within. ~ Susanne O’Neil, Dutchess Tourism
THE BOTTOM LINE
JANUARY 2019
7
Elected officials discuss priorities
T
he Chamber’s Legislative Action Committee presented a discussion with the regional state delegation, sponsored and hosted by Health Quest and Vassar Brothers Medical Center. Board members and company representatives were able to have a dialogue with our
elected officials to hear about initiatives and priorities for the coming year. In attendance were State Senators Sue Serino and Pete Harckham, and State Assembly members Didi Barrett, Kieran Michael Lalor, and Jonathan Jacobson. Kevin Cahill was out of town and unable to attend.
Own A Business? FIVE YEAR Cable/TV
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ANNIVERSARIES ONE YEAR Bookstores
Gifts of Love - Books and More Entertainment and/or Amusement
Hearing Aids
HK Consulting
10 YEAR Consultants
Robert C. Watson Educational Consultants Nonprofits
Focolare Movement – Mariapolis Luminosa
Cloud NYne Music
Convention Centers
Fitness Clubs and Services
Body Be Well Pilates
Mid-Hudson Civic Center
Human Resource Management
Physical Therapists
CR Meter Group Inc. Manufacturers
Woodstock Chimes E Z Clean Energy LLC
Visit: RondoutBank.com/CreditCard
Center for Physical Therapy Nonprofits
Community Action Partnership for Dutchess County
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JANUARY 2019
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Contact: Caroline Bergelin Craft brewery and taproom in downtown Poughkeepsie. We feature beers of all style, which are all signature recipes by the brewmaster.
WELCOME NEW
MEMBERS
EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES & SERVICES
ARCHITECTS
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Elan Architectural Services 2 Red Barn Road Hyde Park, NY 12538 845.625.3161 Email: elanarchitectural@ gmail.com Contact: Brett Huttman Elan Architectural Services is a full-service architectural firm, licensed in NY and CT. We can provide design services for all of your commercial and residential architectural needs.
82 Washington Street, Suite 203A Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 845.433.0700 Fax: 845.433.0701 Email: mercy@ smartstaffinggroup.com Web: smartstaffinggroup.com Contact: Mercy Turugh Staffing firm that focuses on identifying and recruiting top talent for various industries.
FLORISTS & FLORAL DECORATORS Flowers by Angel
BEER MANUFACTURING King's Court Brewing Company 40 Cannon Street, Suite 1 Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 917.697.3030 Email: cgbergelin@gmail.com Web: kingscourtbrewing company.com
2 Raymond Avenue Poughkeepsie, NY 12603 518.577.8131 Email: flowersbyangel.ny@ gmail.com Web: www.flowersbyangel.com Contact: Tyler Keeno High end florist and event designer specializing in weddings and corporate events.
GIFTS/ GIFT BASKETS <Y^^g\adk ?a^l K`ghh] 1600 Main Street Pleasant Valley, NY 12569 845.723.5077 Email: lynnvaruzzo@gmail.com Web: daffodilsgiftshoppe.com Contact: Lynn Varuzzo Treat yourself and those you love. We carry Brighton Jewelry, Papyrus Greeting Cards, S'Well, essential oils, handbags, accessories, and more.
MUSIC STORES & SERVICES Darkside Records 611 Dutchess Turnpike Poughkeepsie, NY 12603 845.452.8010 Email: justin@darksiderecords.com Web: darksiderecords.com Contact: Justin Johnson We're an independently owned and operated record store, specializing in records, CD's, tapes, electronics, and more.
PHOTOGRAPHERS & PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIOS Orr Media Company 3896 Route 9W Saugerties, NY 12477 845.853.5794
SPREAD THE WORD ...
POST YOUR EVENTS TO OUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR DCRCOC.ORG
Email: create@ orrmediacompany.com Web: orrmediacompany.com Contact: James Orr Digital media production company - video, audio, 3D animation, photography, illustration, web design
RESTAURANTS Tiki Temple 206 Main Street Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 845.345.9458 Email: jphillips81@hotmail.com Web: tikitemplepk.com Contact: Jeremy Phillips An Asian Fusion restaurant with a tiki cocktail program that offers some of the most unique food and drink combinations
TRANSPORTATION/COURIER/ DELIVERY SERVICES Albany Airport Transportation Services 2064 New Scotland Road Slingerlands, NY 12159 518.888.6449 Email: info@albany-airporttransportation.com Web: albany-airporttransportation.com Contact: Patrick Baynes Airport transportation/shuttle service to or from Fishkill, Poughkeepsie, Beacon, Red Hook, Rhinebeck, Amenia, and the surrounding areas. Safe, Affordable, 24 Hours! Credit cards accepted.
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Testimonial:
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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Being an active member of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce has been instrumental in growing my agency in the Hudson Valley. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a local business looking to build business, look no further. From networking events to on-site assistance and tools, every entrepreneur and rising executive stands something to gain by aligning with the Chamber. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m proud to have such a robust resource in our community.â&#x20AC;? ~ Filomena Fanelli, CEO/Founder, Impact PR & Communications
THE BOTTOM LINE
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JANUARY 2019
Panel to discuss HR Best Practices for nonprofits and supporters
Gaye Mallet
Christopher R. Pels
at the Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel & Conference Center, following the Chamber’s monthly Contact Breakfast. Thrivent Financial and Gilday Creative sponsor this event. Thrivent Financial helps their customers make the most of their financial journey. Working together building a solid financial plan that suits each individual, and their family. From retirement planning to long-term care needs, Thrivent Financial provides personalized recommendations plus a variety of financial solutions and
Theresa Sanchez
services. For more info visit: thrivent.com Gilday Creative is a digitally forward, independent website and graphic design agency based in the Hudson Valley. They passionately craft strategy and design that goes beyond the expected. Their work helps brands become icons and tells stories that are smart and interesting. For more info visit: gildaycreative.com There is no charge to attend; however pre-registration is requested. To RSVP, visit dcrcoc.org or call 845.454.1700 ext. 1000.
Pay attention to privacy By Jaime M. Butler
T
he first of the year is the great opportunity to update your privacy settings. Location is everything in real estate, but it’s certainly not something you need to share every time you use a mobile device such as a laptop or tablet. While it may be convenient at times for third-party apps to access your location, it doesn’t always have to be switched on. It is easy to store a default location for apps that require a location to work. Windows 10 allows you to sync your account, including passwords across other devices that you sign into with the same account. If you turn this feature off, you’ll need to enter your password manu-
ally when using your Microsoft account on other devices. Why is this helpful? Should you have another device that ends up in the wrong hands, you don’t want them to be able to access your account if you sign in from a desktop. If you end up disabling the syncing feature across your devices, then you can also skip using your Microsoft account to log into your PC. A local account will suffice and doesn’t require an email. This way Microsoft doesn’t collect additional information about you. You’ll only need your Microsoft account if you plan on buying apps from the Windows store or need to sync files with services like OneDrive. Locking your screen on your tablet or PC is always a good secu-
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rity feature. That said, you should make sure your locked screen isn’t giving information away. You want to check your settings to make sure you don’t have notifications on when your screen is locked. It’s also a good idea to turn off Cortana when your machine is locked, so she doesn’t reveal personal information while you have stepped away. Jaime Butler, business development specialist at Integrated Enterprise Solutions, Inc., contributed this article. For more information about IES, visit ies-ny. com or call 845.226.9983.
CALL THE CHAMBER 845.454.1700 X 1029
Home Health Care & Companion Agency, Inc. EOE
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www.darcangelo.com Income Tax Estate Planning
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Poughkeepsie 845-473-7774 | Millbrook 845-677-6823
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Nonprofit Seminar sponsored by
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he Chamber’s Nonprofit Committee will present a complimentary panel discussion featuring Gaye Mallet of Adams Fairacre Farms, Christopher R. Pels of Family Services Inc., and Theresa Sanchez of Walkway over the Hudson as they focus on finding and hiring the right employees and volunteers. Attendees will gain insight for making better-informed decisions in the year and years ahead. The event will take place at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, January 16
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JANUARY 2019
Golden Corral
DCRCOC.ORG
Ribbon Cuttings
SPONSORED BY
R.J. Haug Agency, Farmers Insurance
Congratulations to Golden Corral on their grand opening. Stop in at 2345 South Road in Poughkeepsie.
Congratulations to R. J. Haug Insurance Agency, Farmers Insurance on their one-year anniversary. Stop in at 1083 Route 9, Unit #23 in Fishkill.
The Salt Therapy Room
Pellegrino Healing Center
Congratulations to The Salt Therapy Room on their grand opening. Stop in at 301 Titusville Road, Suite 100 in Poughkeepsie.
Congratulations to Pellegrino Healing Center on their grand opening. Stop in at 4307 Albany Post Road in Hyde Park.
Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center, Inc.
Morgan Strategic Wealth, LLC
Congratulations to the Cunneen Hackett Arts Center on celebrating 135 years. Check them out at 12 Vassar Street in Poughkeepsie.
Congratulations to Morgan Strategic Wealth LLC on their grand opening. Stop in at 200 North Drive, i.Park, Suite 103 in Hopewell Junction.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Save the Date
Business Education Seminar Thursday, February 7 7:30 - 9 AM Location to be announced Register at dcrcoc.org Sponsored by:
SAVE THE DATE
JANUARY 2019
11
Young Professionals to Unwind
T
he Hudson Valley Young Professionals’ Unwind Networking Event will be hosted at Tiki Temple, a craft cocktail lounge and seasonal restaurant located at 206 Main Street Poughkeepsie, on January 29 from 5-7 pm. This event is complimentary to attend thanks to our generous sponsor, Talex Media LLC. Talex
Media provides their clients with high quality, engaging, and emotionally driven narrative content. Visit their website for more information at talexmedia.com. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar will be available. Registration for this event is required in advance. For more information and to register please visit hvpy.org or call 845.454.1700 x1000.
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Student entrepreneurs create their own company This month, Youth Leadership students begin selling their products at various Chamber events. This article was written by the students about the program. The program is a great opportunity for the students to practice their public speaking skills while selling their products. Thank you for supporting Youth Leadership students as they hone their leadership skills and step outside of their comfort zones.
O
rganization, communication, and leadership skills are essential for professional success. Students do not always have the opportunity to develop these skills. To address this growing need, The Chamber Foundation administers the Youth Leadership Program. The program gives students the space to grow and discover their abilities as young leaders. Program students divide into two separate tracks, each with their own area of focus. Track one students build and flex their entrepreneurial skills,
Youth Leadership Students with Track One Lead, Jennifer Pawenski, selling stock at the Chamber’s Business Expo. while track two students focus on identifying their academic and career goals. We are currently participating in track one. Students are acting as a classroom-based company with the goal of creating and selling a product for profit. Our company consists of five student-run
THE CHAMBER FOUNDATION OFFICERS Amy Dittmar, Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp. Maureen Kangas, Vice Chair. . . . . . . . Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel & Conference Center Barbara E. Ostrander, Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . RBT CPAs, LLP David Wise, Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mackey Butts & Wise LLP Stephen E. Diamond, Of Counsel . . . . . . . . . . Stenger, Roberts, Davis & Diamond, LLP DIRECTORS José L. Carrión . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wappingers Central School District Staci Cussick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Liberty Mutual Insurance Tina Hawkinson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Red Cap Cleaners Kim Kenyon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Gold's Gym Matthew Mullaney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hudson Cadillac-Buick-GMC Jennifer Pawenski. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Chazen Companies Jessica Pecchia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Poughkeepsie Galleria Michael Roe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dutchess Community College Al Torreggiani . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Key Construction Services, LLC Robyn Williams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union FOUNDATION STAFF Frank Castella, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . President Audra Gerty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vice President Nicholas Shannon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Executive Director Anne De Muro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Workforce Development Center Program Manager Lisa Niosi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Business Manager YOUTH ONE STOP STAFF Jessica Vitolano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Youth One Stop Coordinator Rosemary Grabowska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Youth One Stop Assistant Coordinator Danica Pierre-Louis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Youth One Stop Case Manager John Pierre-Louis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Youth One Stop Case Manager
departments: Business Development, Marketing, Finance, Production, and Human Resources. As part of this process the students sell stock in their company to raise capital. They design the
branding for their product, select a manufacturer, and sell enough of the product to repay shareholders and earn a profit. Currently the students’ company manufactures and sells “PopSocket pockets,” a new and useful phone accessory. This product sticks to the back of any cell phone acting as a pocket for money, as well as a phone stand. The company name is BOSS – Business of Spectacular Students! Within each department of the company students have the ability to put forth ideas, make decisions, and develop skills that they can utilize for going forward. The Youth Leadership program provides a productive space for ambitious young leaders to step up, learn the value of their voice, and cultivate leadership skills. Thank you for your support!
SCHOLARSHIPS OPEN JANUARY 1
Calling local students!
APPLY ONLINE ChamberFDN.org
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Monday, June 17, 2019 8:30 AM - 5 PM Trump National Golf Club - Hudson Valley
Call Nick at 845.454.1700 x 1026 for more info
ChamberFDN.org
THE BOTTOM UNI
JANUARY 2019
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MEMBER NEWS - POWERED BY INTEGRATED ENTERPRISE SOLUTIONS, INC.
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MEMBER NEWSUNE Rondout Savings Bank's 150 Ways of Giving In celebration of a century and a half of philanthropy and service, Rondout Savings Bank is mark ing their 150-year celebration with a Calendar of Giving pro gram. A different non-profit orga nization is featured each month, fostering community engagement and financial support. In each of the bank’s locations, donation drop-offs are featured in the lob bies keeping the spirit of philan thropy alive throughout the year. This momentous year will include many events recognizing and thanking the community. For the month of October, col lections were made of cozy blan kets for the Office for the Aging in Dutchess County—they plan, coordinate, and provide an array of community based services to the elderly in an effort to promote independence, dignity, and qual ity of life. In early November, the bank dropped off their collected blankets to Todd N. Tancredi Director of Dutchess County Office for the Ag ing and Brian Jones, Outreach Co ordinator, Dutchess County Office for the Aging. The bank was able to collect 43 blankets to donate, in cluding some handmade blankets! For more info, visit rondoutbank.com.
Millbrook Pharmacy works to combat opioid crisis In order to win the war on opioids, Millbrook Pharmacy is aligning with opioid prescribers on a collaborative care approach using cannabinoids, such as CBD, that is proving to significantly reduce opi oid use in their pain patients. According to Dr. Sonny Shah,
RPh, PharmD, the Pharmacistin-charge at Millbrook Pharmacy, “We know that pharmacists are the last line of defense between the patient and the prescription. If we can educate our patients and our physicians on the research that’s out there, it shows that can nabinoids, such as CBD, are sig nificantly reducing the amount of opioids that a patient may need.” Shah is referring to two groundbreaking studies on can nabinoids and pain reduction. The Boehnke Study shows that adding cannabinoids, such as CBD, re duced opioid use by at least 60%. In the Reiman Study, 80% of patients felt that cannabinoids relieved their pain better than opioids. According to Shah, “We’re do ing a community outreach to phy sicians to let them know that there is something else out there other than opioids that’s non-addictive, and that works. I have chronic pain patients come in after trying Ananda Professional CBD prod ucts who are amazed at the results they are seeing.” For more details, please visit themillbrookpharmacy.com.
SolarKal moves headquarters, expands team and territory SolarKal, a commercial so lar energy advisor and brokerage, announces that their NYC head quarters has relocated to down town Manhattan. This comes at a time of rapid growth for the firm, with new brokers coming on board and the addition of sat ellite offices in Florida and Mas sachusetts. SolarKal works with businesses, property owners and managers nationwide on navigat ing the transition to solar energy. With these additions, SolarKal boasts the largest commercial and industrial solar brokerage teams in the commercial solar industry. This more strongly positions So larKal to help businesses on the conversion to solar and energy savings, and take advantage of tax and financial incentives at the state and federal level. SolarKal strengthens its sales
force with the addition of two solar brokers, Iftach Mutai and GP Caminiti. Iftach launches SolarKal’s Florida presence and GP is a new Senior Solar Broker cover ing New Jersey. SolarKal was also recently accepted into Massachu setts’ Greentown Labs, the largest clean technology incubator in the country. For more info, visit solarkal.com.
Impact PR elevates Delia to account manager and adds digital In recognition of her con tributions since joining Impact PR & Communications, Ltd., an award-winning Hudson Val ley public relations and market ing agency, Kristin Delia has been promoted to account manager. Delia came to the firm as a senior account executive and has suc cessfully managed a number of the firm’s strategic communica tions campaigns in the hospitality, food and beverage, lifestyle and not-for-profit industries. “Over the past year, Kris tin has demonstrated leadership skills, alignment with our agency’s core values and an ability to regu larly secure top-tier media results, foster creative brand partnerships and nimbly manage social media for our partners,” said Filomena Fanelli, CEO and founder of Im pact PR & Communications. Delia is part of Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce’s (DCRCOC) Leadership Dutchess Class of 2019, serves on committees with The Arc of Dutchess and will present before DCRCOC’s Youth Leadership group this month. A lifelong Dutchess County, New York, resident, she has volunteered with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in the Hudson Val ley and the National MS Society in Western New York Delia graduated magna cum laude from Niagara University's College of Hospitality & Tourism with a degree in tourism and a concentration in event man agement. In other news, Impact PR & Communications, Ltd. announces the addition of a digital communi
READ & SUBMIT NEWS AT DCRCOC.ORG/NEWS
cations division to address the in creasing need for strategic digital so lutions in the marketplace. Impact’s new digital arm offers a range of ser vices to enhance and complement its work on the media relations and marketing side. Capabilities include SEO analysis, customized social me dia trainings, content creation (so cial media content calendars and key message development), social media management, social media audits, and more. “As we embark upon our fifth year in business, and are observing how much our clients and the market at-large can benefit from smart digi tal strategies and solutions, adding a division dedicated to such practices seems like a natural and necessary next step for our agency” said Filo mena Fanelli, CEO and founder of Impact PR & Communications. For more info, visit prwithimpact.com.
Grants Conference to be held Jan. 9 The 2019 Choice Words Grants Conference will be held on Wednesday, January 9 from 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM in Hudson Hall at Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh. The conference offers grant seekers at all levels pragmatic
insights from both successful Hudson Valley fundraisers and the funders themselves, and will relate winning real-world strategies for raising funds through grant writing. Resources for businesses, nonprofits, and municipalities will be offered. Presenters to include: Meghan Taylor, Hudson Valley Regional Director, Empire State Development Corporation March S. Gallagher, Esq., President and CEO, Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley Elizabeth Rowley, CFRE, President and CEO, Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan Jen Drake, Senior Program Officer, Dyson Foundation Suzanne Holt, Esq., Director, Ulster County Office of Economic Development Julie Pacatte, Municipal Funding Specialist, The Chazen Companies Chris Round, AICP, Senior Principal, Vice President of Planning Services, The Chazen Companies Mike Oates, President and CEO, Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation Visit choicewordspr.com/ conference for more information and to register.
60 Hour Entrepreneurial Training Program Create your roadmap to success! Classes start February 13, 2019 Wednesday evenings from 6 to 9, ONLY $300
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JANUARY 2019
DCRCOC.ORG
Community leaders to be honored at Gala
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joint marketing initiatives with United Way of Dutchess & Ulster Counties, established a succession plan for subsequent campaign chairs, and guided a needs assessment and evaluation process within the County's Emergency Services. The Community Spirit Award, given to an individual who visibly embraces the community in order to make it a better place to live and work, will be presented to Linda G. Campbell, Director of Marketing and Employment Services at The Arc of Dutchess. Linda is driven by her passion for people, which has guided her to be a fierce advocate engaging the community in collaborative Linda G. Campbell efforts to cultivate employment, educational, and volunteer opportunities for the people The Arc supports. Linda is very active and involved on The Arc’s Events Committee for Partners at Work, Evening of Discovery, and Celebration of Stars, and is a member of The Arc’s Outreach Committee. The Visionary Award is awarded to a business with a strong vision of the future and which embraces the community in order to make it a better place to live and work. Honorees Jim and Gina Sullivan have been
ky’s the Lim S e h
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eservations are now being accepted for the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce’s 2019 Gala, themed “The Sky’s The Limit.” The Gala will take place on Saturday, February 2 at The Grandview in Poughkeepsie. Attendees of the Gala will walk in the clouds, be mesmerized by shooting stars, beams of light, and lunar décor while feasting on a heavenly dinner menu of delicacies. Guests will dance the night away to entertainment from Cloud NYne, and will have the opportunity to win an array of prizes. At the Gala, the Community Service Award, given to an individual who selflessly gives of their time and talent to improve the community in which we live, work, and thrive, will be Tom Weddell presented to Tom Weddell, who recently retired from RBT CPAs. Tom has made a career at boosting the financial expertise and accountability of nonprofits. He spearheaded several successful nonprofit fundraising campaigns, including reshaping the Leadership Dutchess educational program, the Orange County United Way's Woman's Leadership Fund and the Orange Open Golf Outing. He was also instrumental in
Jim and Gina Sullivan renovating and restoring some of the most blighted buildings in the City of Poughkeepsie since 2009. 40 Cannon Street is their largest and most rewarding project to date. Over the past two years, this building was transformed and restored into a state-of-the-art mixed-use space with the hiring of over 60 people from the City of Poughkeepsie. The Sullivans consider themselves the luckiest landlords, as their tenants are what they call some of the nicest, most generous, and community minded people.
Joseph, Domenico, and Daniel Lepore The Next Generation Awards are conferred upon businesses that have survived the test of
time and been passed successfully from generation to generation. LCS Facility Group is a family owned business founded in 2001 by Joe and Maria Lepore, parents of Daniel, Joseph and Domenico. Beginning with nothing more than a dream and an old-world work ethic, the Lepore family have made LCS into a dynamic, fast-growing full-service commercial cleaning, facility management, landscape and construction business employing over 400 employees in New York, California and Texas.
2019 Sky’s the Limit
GALA SPONSORS P L AT I N UM
BA N D
40 Cannon Street C O C K TA I L
Riverside Bank
A Division of Salisbury Bank and Trust Company
DE S SE RT
Rhinebeck Bank AWA R D
De’S Jewelers DA NC E
DCH Wappingers Falls Toyota D’Arcangelo & Co., LLP DÉ C OR
Adams Fairacre Farms Marshall & Sterling Insurance THEME
Steven O'Brien and Britney NeJameO'Brien Another Next Gen. Award goes to NeJame Pools, the newest force behind the old-est family-owned swimming pool business based in the Hudson Valley. The husband-wife team of Steven O’Brien and Britney NeJameO’Brien, have contin-ued tradition through their third generation business, and hope to one day have their twin boys carry forward the family business. For more info about the Gala, visit dcrcoc.org/gala.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2 THE GRANDVIEW, POUGHKEEPSIE
TICKETS AT
DCRCOC.ORG/GALA
S & O Construction Services, Inc. Stenger, Roberts, Davis & Diamond LLP - SRDD Law Tompkins Mahopac Bank G OL D
Integrated Enterprise Solutions, Inc. LCS Facility Group M & T Bank, Hudson Valley Division N & S Supply RBT CPAs, LLP Ulster Savings Bank CENTERPIECE
Blacktop Maintenance Corporation Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation DocuWare Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union Rose & Kiernan, Inc. SI LV E R
CareMount Medical, P.C. PKF O’Connor Davies Hudson Cadillac-Buick-GMC NeJame Pool Specialists, Inc. Poughkeepsie Galleria Royal Carting Service Company ServiceMaster Restore by Nest VA L E T
2019
Foam & Wash Car Wash P HOTO
Poughkeepsie Journal Media PRIZE
Zimmer Brothers
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT CENTER
JANUARY 2019
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Workforce program goes the extra mile By Joe Flores, Workforce Connections Case Manager
The Workforce Connections Program comprises both education/training services and staffing resources. These organizations are often multi-faceted and offer several programs that help with both existing and future employees. The Workforce Connections Program is made possible thanks to a partnership with the Dutchess County Department of Community and Family Services and the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce.
D
avid Virgil is a participant of the Chamber’s Workforce Connections (WFC) program. At 54 years old he perseveres through freezing temperatures as he commutes to his new job at The Pines Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation. With no current means to drive, he commutes on his bike up from Red Oaks Mill to the center of Poughkeepsie, six days a week, to prepare special diet meals for medically fragile elders and patients recovering from surgery. David was referred to WFC by the Dutchess County Department of Community & Family Services, because he was struggling to secure a steady job. His resume had
substantial gaps in employment due to a lifetime fight against addiction and substance abuse. After working hard to build a substantial support network, he’s now several years sober and celebrating his commitment to recovery. After earning a ServSafe certificate from a local culinary program (The Professional Culinary Academy) and completing an externship, he was given an opportunity with Chamber member, The Pines. Professional attire was arranged through Suited for Success, a program operated by Dutchess Community Action Partnership, which provided him with a week’s worth of clothing donated by the community. At least once a week, Mr. Virgil meets with his WFC case manager to receive post-employment men-
Youth One Stop is a comprehensive education and job-training program utilizing local resources to benefit at-risk youth in Dutchess County. The program is open to income-eligible youth, ages 14-24 who are facing obstacles inhibiting them from completing school, finishing their HSE or gaining employment. Youth One Stop is made possible thanks to a partnership with the Dutchess County Workforce Investment Board and The Chamber Foundation, Inc.
toring in the form of constructive feedback and referrals to additional supportive services. Together, David and his case manager plan action items and next steps to reach his personal and career goals, which include buying a used car and getting his own place. David is the embodiment of what it means to endure despite lifelong challenges. Keep up the good work David!
Career Action Center mentors are stationed in Poughkeepsie High School to provide students with the necessary skills to identify and pursue their career interests and/or obtain employment. Mentors also facilitate an intensive job and career readiness mentoring program to 50 juniors and seniors at Poughkeepsie High School. The Career Action Center is made possible thanks to a partnership with the Poughkeepsie City School District and the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Mayor attends holiday party
Youth participants speak up at summit By Rosemary Grabowska Youth One Stop Assistant Coordinator
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ver 80 students from around Dutchess County gathered recently at the Dutchess Community College “Path to Promise” Youth Leadership Summit, organized by the Department of Children & Family Services. Three participants from Youth One Stop joined the summit. The aim of the event was to allow participants to be able to freely talk about what their wants and needs without adult guidance. Discussions focused on family and adult relationships, material needs, physical health, mental health, safety, and learning. The three YOS participants: Davell, Wanya, and Gabriel agreed that the summit was an important opportunity. They are used to having discussions in this format as they participate in Youth
One Stop’s Peer Mentoring activities. “I enjoyed it because we got a chance to express our voice on issues that we feel aren’t being dealt with properly,” said Wanya. “It was
a good experience,” agreed Gabriel. “I like that we were able to talk about what we need.” “If what they say is true and our opinions do matter, then I feel this process is a great way to go about it,” stated Davell. These activities provide a space for youth in the program to meet and talk about their experiences, challenges, and goals. Peers learn from one another, and give each other advice that might be taken as more relevant than coming from an adult. Besides assisting one another, they are able to forge strong social networks through mentoring, and forming friendships that last long after they have completed the program. Youth One Stop is made possible thanks to a partnership with the Dutchess County Workforce Investment Board and the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Poughkeepsie Mayor Rob Rolison visited the Career Action Center’s annual holiday party at Poughkeepsie High School. The event featured a hot chocolate station and a cookie-decorating workshop. Juniors and seniors from the high school were in attendance as well as Anne DeMuro, Katrina Gobins and Nancy Herrera from the Career Action Center.
TO ADVERTISE IN THE BOTTOM LINE, PLEASE CALL THE POUGHKEEPSIE JOURNAL 845.437.4783
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Watch your business soar with the Chamber!
%HQHŵWV RI &KDPEHU PHPEHUVKLS • Advocacy • Business education • Community involvement • Employment portal • Marketing opportunities • Media exposure • Member discounts • Networking events • Sponsorship opportunities
SCHEDULE A MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MEETING TODAY! CALL NANCY AT 845.454.1700 X 1012 Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce One Civic Center Plaza, Poughkeepsie NY 12601
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