Business Edge December 2020 by Sullivan County Democrat/Catskill-Delaware Publications

DECEMBER

2020

Sullivan County Partnership for Economic Development uSullivan County Industrial Development Agency uSullivan County Chamber of Commerce uSullivan Catskills Visitors Association uSullivan County Democrat

Apple Ice looks to Sullivan County INSIDE: for new, hot market President’s message: Adapt and be prepared page 2E 2020: A look at the year that was page 4E Sullivan Catskills: Optimistic for 2021 page 6E

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Apple Ice trucks will soon be seen travelling the roads of the Hudson Valley – including Sullivan County – as they open operations at 33 Plaza Drive in Monticello with their new distribution center. At right, R. J. Katz Realty owner Bruce Reynolds, left, inspects the new warehouse/distribution center with Apple Ice owner Cono Cimino.

Seven X Motors has faith in Sullivan County page 10E Keep assessing your business & workplace page 12E

STORY AND PHOTOS BY FRED STABBERT III

pple Ice may be a new name to Sullivan County residents and business owners, but the Long Islandbased company and its owner, Cono Cimino,will soon be a household name to many. Based in Deer Park, the company will soon be operating out of Sullivan County, having recently purchased a building at 33 Plaza Drive in Monticello, which Apple Ice plans on using as a warehouse and distribution center. The building, which sits behind Monticello Professional Car Wash, was once used by Sullivan County ARC. Currently under renovations, the warehouse already has tons of rock salt on pallets inside, ready to be delivered to Apple Ice customers.

Real Estate Market performs strong in 2020 page 8E

News on electric rate changes going forward page 14E

Once completely renovated, Apple Ice will also be able to lease out part of the 20,000-square-foot warehouse to another business. Apple Ice owner Cono Cimino said, “I want to send a special thank you to the Partnership for Economic Development, which has been helping me throughout the year. Without the help of Marc, his staff and some key members I would

not have been able to get established here. They have been a Godsend…” Apple Ice’s move into Sullivan County was also facilitated by R. J. Katz Realty owner Bruce Reynolds. “I just stumbled across this opportunity,” Cimino said. “I was looking for months – in Newburgh or Middletown –

Please see APPLE ICE, page 3E

Get ready for Renaissance page 15E Hybrid learning in Fallsburg Central page 16E SUNY Sullivan remains strong during COVID-19 page 18E

BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2020

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Adapt and be prepared To the People:

As we end 2020, a year we all would like erased from our mind to one degree or another, we must take away valuable lessons we can use in the coming year and beyond. One of them stands out to me and that is to adapt and be ready for almost anything. We can no longer operate businesses with complacency, thinking that booms in the economy can last forever and that with no signs of structural deficiencies, the economy cannot be overwhelmed by external forces that turn our world upside down. Certainly, no one saw the pandemic coming, though history tells us, (from SARS, Ebola, H1N1 and others) it was a matter of time before something got out of hand. Pandemics are not the only external forces to be leery of; politics is another area that has immediate and long-lasting impacts on businesses. It cannot be argued that the country is now more

polarized than it has ever been, at position your business for a better outcome. least in my lifetime. We are reminded While there are things beyond your control, to daily as the news media beats it into the extent that you can prepare, you will see a our head. better outcome. I do remember when news covered Whether that is cutting costs, developing new all kinds of stories. Now, a newscast ways of production, new products, new efficient focuses mostly all of its stories on poli- CEO/President Marc Baez ways of marketing, or teaming up with a comtics regardless of who is in office. petitor you would never think could occur, the It’s more opinion than facts on both sides of the ability to be flexible and adapt will help businesses aisle. Today, business leaders must be attentive and survive and thrive once the pandemic and the politeducated on the issues more so than at any other ical season finally subside. time period. We at the Partnership are here to help in any way The statement “elections have consequences …” we can. Do not hesitate to call with any questions has never been more real. So, anyone running a you have. We will work with you to help you adapt business has to be up to speed on all issues as they and be ready. will certainly have an impact on the bottom line. Sincerely, Be prepared. Forecast what could happen if someone is elected or a policy push is imminent. As this contentious national, and in some cases regional, election unfolds, on top of the uncertainty Marc Baez with the pandemic, be ready to adapt to all possiPresident, Sullivan County Partnership bilities you may think could happen and you will

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Publisher: Fred Stabbert III Designer: Rosalie Mycka Advertising Director: Liz Tucker Assistant Advertising Director: Barbara Matos Advertising Representatives: Susan Panella Production Manager: Petra Duffy Production Associates: Elizabeth Finnegan, Nyssa Calkin, Katey Dnistrian, Jessica Roda Business Manager: Sue Owens Distribution: Anthony Bertholf, Phil Grisafe, John Fischer

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SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2020

APPLE ICE From front page to expand my business into the Hudson Valley when I stopped for lunch with Bruce earlier this year.” Reynolds remembered the ARC building was for sale and then one thing led to another. “The biggest thing was he needed sewer and water,” Reynolds said. Now Cimino is getting ready to build an ice plant capable of producing 400 tons of ice per day. “Once we build the plant we plan on having at least 30 people employed,” Cimino said. “We will have 8 to 10 employees, full and part-time, working out of the warehouse.” Cimino said he hopes to have the ice plant up and running “within a year, God willing” but knows how long the process can take, from start to finish. “My long range plan is to build an industrial park for other businesses,” Cimino said.” Sullivan County Partnership President and CEO Marc Baez said, “Our ability to take a property that had not been on the tax roles for many years and make it productive once again is at the core of what the Partnership does on a daily basis.

area,” Cimino said. Reynolds said a friend of Cimino’s also purchased property in Liberty. “They really like Sullivan County,” Reynolds said.

Apple Ice owner Cono Cimino stands outside the new warehouse/distribution center in Monticello. He plans to build an ice plant across the street. “Working with the Sullivan County IDA, without which this project would not occur, we have able to assist Apple Ice even in the midst of a pandemic. “We look forward to helping Cono with his production facility which will introduce yet another large tax ratable and new jobs to the area.” Baez said. Not done yet Earlier this month, Cimino purchased

the former law offices of Robert and William Rosen at 504 Broadway, Monticello. “He has one tenant, Upstate Abstract, and will have several other offices for rent,” Reynolds, who also negotiated that sale, said. “the offices upstairs will be converted into 2 two-bedroom apartments upstairs for possible use by his employees or to rent out.” “I’m trying to put money into the

Open for Business “We have a fleet of trucks ready to deliver what you need,” Apple Ice Assistant Gina Morris said. “Residential or business, we have what you need, from dry ice to all different kinds of ice cubes, to ice sculptures.” The company features blocks, cubes, crushed and dry ice, snow, ice sculptures, ice melt and firewood. And if you need to melt the ice, Apple Ice can help with that, too. They sell many ice melt products, such as rock salt, calcium chloride, and an organic eco-friendly alternative. Their products are available as bags or by the pallet. With nearly two decades of experience, Apple Ice is New York’s No. 1 distributor of bagged ice, producing 800,000 pounds of crystal clear ice per day. They will service retail and restaurant locations, and campgrounds to backyard barbecues with dependable service. “The whole thing about Apple Ice is our great customer service,” Morris said.

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Personal coverage Business coverage

BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

2020

A look at the year that was

STORY AND PHOTOS BY FRED STABBERT III

020 dawned 349 days ago as a year with great promise, high hopes and a bright future. Nearly 12 months later, it’s a year many of us wish we never saw. However, while COVID-19 was certainly the lead story on nearly everyone’s radar, there were a few bright spots along the way and a forecast that 2021 will be a year when we can all strive to get back to normal. “It was a crazy year,” Sullivan County Partnership President and CEO Marc Baez said recently. “But the Sullivan County Partnership has a lot to be proud of. “Being able to raise funds in a rural county is very difficult,” Baez said, referring to his staff’s mission of attracting new members. “[But] We have been able to hold the line.”

Baez said the Partnership nearly doubled its fundraising efforts, thanks in large part to new staffer Jen Cassaro. With a membership approaching 150, Baez said it was also important to keep in touch. “Cluster meetings turned out well,” he said. “Everyone stayed safe… and we got really good feedback [from our members].”

A new initiative of the Partnership is “In the Know,” a print and digital newsletter designed specifically as a bonus to members. “The quality, design and layout is some of the best stuff we’ve done,” Baez said. “It’s important to bring value to the organization. [In the Know] is a really big success and our goal for the next one is 50 pages.” Baez also noted that economic

DECEMBER 2020

Seminary Hill Cidery in Callicoon is nearing completion and is looking forward to an active 2021.

development did not stop because of the pandemic. “To score net new projects is phenomenal. It’s spectacular that it happened during this environment,” he said. Besides job creation, Baez said that increasing the tax base is also a plus for the residents of Sullivan County. In fact, the Partnership contracts with the County of Sullivan to conduct special economic development activities. “For every $9 of real property tax dollars that is received by the county [in direct relationship to the Partnership’s efforts], we get one dollar,” he said. “They pay us $1 and they get $9.” Baez noted that this return on the county’s contract with the Partnership was important to demonstrate that economic development generated tangible results. “On top of that we took tax free property and put it back on the tax

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SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2020

Do Good Spirits, formerly known as Prohibition Distillery in Roscoe, has adapted to the pandemic with outdoor seating and also producing hand sanitizer to help fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

estate market which is seeing increased home prices as inventory evaporates and demand increases. “The third quarter real estate numbers are spectacular,” he said. “And our unemployment is not bad either – at 6.9 percent – compared to over 13 percent in July. Baez said the New York State Association of Realtors are reporting that homes for sale in Sullivan are down 23.8 percent, which “creates

demand in the market.” And while the average supply is down 43 percent, the new listings are up 22.8 percent. Closings were also up 47 percent. “And the median sales price from 2019 to 2020, during the 3rd quarter, rose from $148,450 to $199,600,” Baez noted. “All these things point to construction [of homes] taking off.” “2020 could have been a lot worse,” he said.

DEMOCRAT FILE PHOTO BY AUTUMN SCHANIL

Works in Progress Baez is hoping the new presidential administration will focus on rebuilding America’s infrastructure. “I anticipate a massive infrastructure program which would be good news for the 3rd lane project on Route 17,” Baez said.

He also noted how building projects are proceeding throughout the county including the Hampton Inn in Monticello, Seminary Hill Cidery in Callicoon, Marshall’s in Monticello, the future Apple Ice and Chatwell Lodges in Chapin Estates. Real Estate still hot And one unintended consequence of the pandemic was a boiling real

Eldred Preserve owner Dan Silna, left, and Chief Operating Officer Scott Samuelson spent much of the summer and fall overseeing construction of the $30,000,000 resort.

Proud d to Supp port

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rolls, including a site near the former Apollo Plaza,” he noted.

IINSPIRING DESIGN. ENRICHING COMMUNITIES.

BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2020

Sullivan Catskills optimistic as 2021 approaches I

n reflection, 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone. The travel industry has been hit the hardest by the pandemic, affecting numerous businesses and its tourism workforce. The Sullivan Catskills is the most reliant on the hospitality industry for employment within the Catskill Region. Our county, in many ways, is holding its own and the SCVA anticipates recovery faster than other destinations in New York State for several reasons. “The Sullivan Catskills tourism industry is resilient. Due to its resourcefulness, tenacity and ingenuity, it has afforded many of our businesses to remain open during the pandemic. Some businesses have even reported growth, over 2019, despite being closed for a few months earlier this year,” stated Roberta ByronLockwood, President/CEO of the

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Enjoying the beautiful outdoors is a big attraction, especially during the winter. At right, Canal Towne Emporium in Wurtsboro is a great place to shop, and don't miss "The Dance of the Lights," held every night at 7 p.m. through Christmas eve.

homes or seek weekend refuge at small inns and B&Bs. These former city dwellers want to shop, eat out and partake in outdoor adventure to experience some bit of normalcy that we have all lost. Those businesses that quickly adapted to changes are weathering out the storm, and in some cases thriving. To keep the momentum going to encourage proper social distancing

Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association (SCVA). Weathering the storm Part of this reason is New Yorkers desire to flee city’s volatility and they now have the ability to work remotely. Many have purchased second

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travel, as well as to help spearhead economic recovery efforts, the SCVA teamed up with Bethel Woods on the “Peace, Love & Light Show.” This is a mile-long light spectacular that families can enjoy in the comfort of their own vehicles from now until January 3, 2021. While here, visitors can attend events like Dinner with Santa and live caroling and a Holiday Market during

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2020

the weekends, visit www.bethelwoodscenter.org for ticket and schedule information. Keeping the ball rolling “There is so much to do in the Sullivan Catskills in addition to this amazing light show, stated ByronLockwood. “To keep in the spirit of the Holiday Season alive and to showcase us as 4-season destination, we created a Winter Campaign that will entice the traveler to stay here longer and spend more money in our communities. “It is all about rebuilding our wealth and quality of life for all – and we are optimistic based on current activity,” Byron-Lockwood said. The SCVA campaign is multi-faceted in order to drive visitors here; and is flexible to adapt to new COVID guidelines and regulations. It includes commercials, social media posts and website highlighting overnight packages, outdoor adventure activities and dine and drink specials – all crafted to create an outstanding getaway for the winter traveler and to showcase that this is an authentic mountain getaway like no other.

People are finding their way here and wanting to return because it is a hidden gem within the Catskill Mountain Region. Slowly people are discovering why it is an award winning destination – featured in 2019 as one of the best places to visit by Lonely Planet, Fodor’s Travel and in 2020 by Harper’s Bazaar. Its eclectic array of restaurants, authentic American main streets, superior art galleries, distinctive attractions, one-of-a kind boutique shops and award-winning beverage trail, makes the Sullivan Catskills truly the place to be.

Sullivan County has plenty to see this time of year, including decorated Doves and a nightly light show at Bethel Woods, which runs through Jan. 3, from 5 to 10 p.m. nightly. Wednesdays opens at 6 p.m. As 2021 approaches, there is a beacon of expectation. Expectation that will once again be the fastest growing county in New York State for tourism spending. For two consecutive years (2018, 2019), Sullivan County experienced rapid growth of tourism spending at 26.7% and was expected to continue for 2020. These numbers and the unique experiences that are in the county, is why the SCVA is confident

BUSINESS EDGE

that the tourism industry will recover here faster than anywhere else. The SCVA, the official tourism promoter for Sullivan County, is a multiaward-winning organization for its marketing and leadership initiatives. Visit www.sullivancatskills.com for more information on its attractions, restaurants, lodging and events. The SCVA created the Catskill’s Confidence campaign. This program encourages businesses to implement enhanced sanitation protocols recommended by state and local governments and health agencies to make visitors and residents feel confident that their well-being is put first. To learn more https://sullivancatskills.com/new-catskills-confidence/

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DECEMBER 2020

Real estate market continues its strong performance in 2020 JENNIE L WALIGROSKI PRESIDENT SULLIVAN COUNTY BOARD OF REALTORS

hat a year 2020 has been! According to the New York State Association of Realtors, low mortgage rates helped maintain the strong housing market. In October, Freddie Macâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 30-year fixed mortgage fell to 2.83 percent. This is the eleventh consecutive month the average monthly rate has decreased.

Robust closed sales in New York State jumped 16.6% and pending sales skyrocketed to 38.8% from 2019. The Sullivan County local market update through October 2020 provided by HGAR shows Closed Single Family homes up 57% and Days on Market down 22.1% from 2019.

Overall, 2020 has been a very busy time for Realtors. Sullivan County NY continues to be a very sought after location, chosen for its adorable towns, indoor and outdoor recreational activities with fantastic eateries and breweries, to name just a few. Known as the Sullivan Catskills and

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DECEMBER 2020

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

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BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER, 2020

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER, 2020

BUSINESS EDGE

11E

Seven X Motors has faith in Sullivan County; continues to grow STORY AND PHOTOS BY FRED STABBERT III

s there anything that can slow down the dynamic duo of Faith and Eric Alleva? Well, the sister-brother team didn’t let a year-long bridge replacement project right in front of their door stop them. And COVID-19 provided them the inspiration to work smarter, attracting new business through technology and smart advertising. And now, as we turn the calendar on 2021, the 20-yearold business is getting ready for its biggest expansion yet, putting up a new showroom across the street from their current 954 State Route 17B location, finishing a new service garage and expanding Seven X Motors’ offerings from 100 to 400 used cars and trucks. “It’s going to be a very exciting year,” Faith, who runs the front office for the company, said. “The whole COVID thing hit everybody, but we never closed, we are essential. “I love what I do,” she said. “The best part of what I do is building relationships. At the end of the year, when we start putting away files, I begin remembering all of our customers – it’s heartwarming.” Sullivan County Partnership for Economic Development President and CEO Marc Baez said, “Faith and Eric, utilizing their own resources, are investing heavily in their business utilizing local vendors. “This expansion project, particularly during a pandemic, rivals bringing any new business of similar size in that it has a direct positive impact on our local economy,” Baez said.

Customer care The Allevas, who are the children of Seven-X founder Eric Alleva Sr., feel that their hard work, attention to detail and caring for their customers will pay off in the long run. With the car auctions closed, Faith said, “Eric does hours of research to find the right cars. Bringing cars in now is an art. “Eric can get you whatever you want,” she said. “He is so attentive to detail he spends hours picking and choosing. “We are buying the cars, sight unseen. [But] when our drivers go to pick them up they give them the once over.”

Keeping their vehicles running “Another thing that is really big is that we completely and fully service the car when we sell it,” he said. “New brakes, rotors, inspection and a minimum of a one-year warranty. “Nobody does that,” he said. “We do all that for free, before it leaves [our lot].” The Allevas know how important transportation is, especially in rural Sullivan County. “People can’t miss work, they can’t be late,” Eric said. “And we don’t want our customers to have a car payment and car repair bill.”

3 CONTRIBUTED GRAPHIC

4. Eric Alleva, left, is happy to have Frank DiConstanzo on the Seven X team, meeting customers and selling cars.

Expanded service area By expanding their service area with three new service bays, Eric said they will be better served to handle more customers, especially those who don’t have a Seven-X vehicle. Sometimes Seven-X got so busy handling their own customers, they could not fit in people who brought their cars to them for something as quick as putting on snow tires. The new addition is 35 by 95 feet and the Allevas are proud that much of the work and supplies are provided by local businesses. “We bought all the material for the building locally, including Schmidt’s Wholesale, Fallsburg Lumber, E. Tetz, Wyde Lumber, Silverman Mechanical and a local concrete company. “That building will be complete by January – February at the latest,” Eric said. “Right now, 90 percent of the vehicles we service are the ones we sell,” he said. “We are trying to accommodate other people because if we service more vehicles we become a staple of the community.” “Now we will have the infrastructure to handle that,” he said. Seven-X currently has three full-time mechanics and one yard person and will need to add another two to three full-time people to handle the extra work. They also hired salesperson Frank DiCostanzo to help Eric handle the increased customer base. “We are very blessed to have him here,” Eric said. “He’s a tremendous asset. Before we had Frank, if someone needed attention it was hard.”

New showroom “We bought the property up the road so we could build

5. Much of the sitework for the new showroom has been completed and is awaiting the buildout – and cars.

6. Eric Alleva stands in front of the new 35-by-90 foot service department expansion which will add three bays to help the busy department keep up with customer demand.

a full showroom up there. Our appearance is really critical,” Eric said. “The new showroom building is on order and should be up by early Fall, 2021,” he said. “The Town of Bethel has been fantastic, helping us with everything we needed. They’ve been there for us.” That’s one reason the Allevas didn’t move to Middletown, although they had an offer on a building there. “It’s really important to keep the revenue here,” Eric said. He said their $10 million company pays a lot of sales tax in addition to all the property taxes the buildings and property generates. “We are the Town of Bethel’s 1st business,” Eric laughs, explaining that Seven-X Motors is the first business you hit once you cross the town line from Thompson to Bethel on Route 17B. And with their exciting plans for 2021, they hope to keep it that way.

1. Eric Alleva believes in getting his customers what they need – dependable transportation at a fair price. 2. Faith Alleva said she and her brother Eric literally “grew up here,” referring to spending time with their father, Eric, in their early years at the business they now own. 3. This rendering of Seven X Motors’ new showroom will be a reality next Fall. The showroom will be located just west of Seven X’s current location on Route 17B in Bethel.

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BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER, 2020

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER, 2020

BUSINESS EDGE

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Seven X Motors has faith in Sullivan County; continues to grow STORY AND PHOTOS BY FRED STABBERT III

3 CONTRIBUTED GRAPHIC

4. Eric Alleva, left, is happy to have Frank DiConstanzo on the Seven X team, meeting customers and selling cars.

New showroom “We bought the property up the road so we could build

5. Much of the sitework for the new showroom has been completed and is awaiting the buildout – and cars.

6. Eric Alleva stands in front of the new 35-by-90 foot service department expansion which will add three bays to help the busy department keep up with customer demand.

12E

BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2020

Keep assessing your business and workplace to get the most out of your day

BY JAIME SCHMEISER PRESIDENT & CEO SULLIVAN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

he past several months have presented tremendous challenges for individuals, businesses, and governments. But amidst the chaos, we have also found opportunities as we have been forced to reimagine our collective future. The Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce has developed and continues to develop a vision and recommendations on how we can harness these opportunities and shape a future that supports the longterm well-being of our communities. In strong collaboration with businesses, key economic stakeholders, roundtable participation at the local, state and federal levels, the Chamber is building and preparing for eco-

We are open for business and helping everyone get back to normal! Of course, we are taking all of the appropriate current safety precautions, and we ask that all customers wear a mask and to stay 6 feet apart. We are ready to supply you with all your office, home office and computer needs.

nomic recovery. We are committed to ensuring that our county and our region come back stronger than ever. With this in mind, there are several things that you could be doing in your business that may help you out in the post-Covid time. Thanks to our friend Christina R. Metcalf for the following suggestions: You’ve learned what your time is worth In every business, there are things that are worth your time and things that aren’t. If you busy yourself with the things that aren’t, you will always feel underpaid and overworked. Instead, make a list of the things that you should be farming out to others.

Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce Membership and Operations Coordinator Geri Neumann, left, and President and CEO Jaime Schmieser recently hosted the Pride Awards at the Villa Roma Clubhouse in Callicoon. It may seem counterintuitive to pay others to do things you could be doing but everything has a cost. For instance, if you are the primary person bringing in sales for your company but you’re also handling the landscaping and cleaning up the office, you’re losing money. The time you’re spending landscaping and cleaning is time not spent bringing in sales. If you know that for every 5 people

you try to sell to, one will buy from you and you know your average sale is $400, and you can reach 5 people in an hour, then you can expect – on average – a sale an hour. So, every hour you’re spending doing something else is costing you a sale. It’s a lot less expensive to hire someone to do the landscaping and cleaning so you can concentrate on bringing in sales than it is for you to do those tasks yourself.

• Bryan & Barbara are ready and waiting for you at the front counter and by the phone or computer to take your orders. • Our copy shop is open again and Jessica has all of your art supplies and framing in the Art Shoppe. • If you need a copier or computer or even a commercial vacuum, Gene and Ryan are anxious to speak with you. We service every item that we sell and we never charge for delivery.

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BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2020

13E

your knowledge in a particular area. For instance, if you offer marketing content for businesses, learning more about SEO may help you command a higher hourly or project fee. Now is an excellent time to look at educational options. There have never been so many affordable options.

Liberty Rotary member Gary Siegel accepted the Distinguished Service Award on behalf of the Rotary for Operation Feed. You’ve picked up a new skill From webinars to online classes, there’s an educational pursuit for every interest and budget. Consider your interests but also think about what will improve your “employability” of your business. Think about complementary services you might offer if you improved

You’ve learned when you work best With working from home situations, some businesspeople have had to get creative with their work hours. If you’ve done this, hopefully you’ve learned what your most productive hours are. If you have, don’t waste them returning emails. Whatever is your “freshest” part of the day, you should use that to tackle new projects, bring in new accounts, brainstorm ways to grow your business, and other things. Leave administrative tasks, like email, for later parts of the day. It will make you more productive. COVID has forced us to re-examine where we work and how we do it. If you haven’t already, think about ways you might invest in making your business stronger post-COVID than it was before.

DEMOCRAT FILE PHOTOS BY JOSEPH ABRAHAM

The Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce’s recent Pride Awards honored businesspeople and community volunteers who have made a difference during the COVID-19 pandemic. Chamber thoughts The Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce continues to advocate firmly for our businesses. We will continue to be a strong and engaged voice for business and a productive partner to our economic development partners. We continue to be here to assist

businesses to start up, scale up, and compete, which in turn enables Sullivan County to benefit from a high quality of life and participate in building a strong, resilient county. Join us today. Together we will shape Our Future. For more information on joining the Chamber please call 845-791-4200 x4.

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14E

BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2020

MINDING OUR BUSINESS

After fighting proposed NYSEG Rate Plan, Sen. Metzger welcomes PSC changes he NYS Public Service Commission (PSC) released an Order in the rate case of New York State Electric and Gas Company (NYSEG), which significantly reduces the proposed rate increase from nearly 25 percent over three years to less than six percent (two percent in the first year, 1.95 percent in the second year, and 1.99 percent in the third year). The decision to modify the Joint Proposal agreed to by the rate case

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parties this summer came after significant criticism by Senator Metzger in comments to the Commission and in the press about raising rates amidst a pandemic and severe economic downturn that have left many of her constituents struggling to pay their bills. The PSC Order further requires that NYSEG provide emergency relief in the form of $100 in bill credits to vulnerable residential and small business customers. In addition to fighting the enor-

Serving Sullivan County Since 1953

Metzger was disappointed, however, that the PSC approved an increase in customer fixed charges from $15.11 to $17.00 per month, which disproportionately burdens customers who use less energy. Senator Jen Metzger serves on the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee. Prior to entering the State Senate in 2019 she served as Director of Citizens for Local Power, a nonprofit organization that fights unfair utility rates and practices..

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mous rate hike alongside the Public Utility Law Project and AARP, Senator Metzger has also been advocating for increased investment to improve grid reliability, especially in Sullivan County, where power outages are frequent. Moreover, the rate plan includes $1.6 billion for grid upgrades, including replacing the notorious Yulan circuit in Sullivan County that is responsible for hundreds of power disruptions a year, according to local officials.

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BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2020

15E

MINDING OUR BUSINESS Get Ready to Renaissance!

Sullivan Renaissance Virtual G2R Winter Symposium to be held on January 13

ullivan Renaissance will host the G2R Virtual Winter Symposium – Get Ready to Renaissance! on Wednesday January 13 at 5:30 p.m. via Zoom. This symposium will present information on grants for community beautification, business assistance, neighborhood revitalization, municipal partnerships and explore volunteer opportunities. This is the kick-off event of the 2021 grant season for anyone looking to apply for project funding. Grant applications will be available online January 1. Create a remote watch party with a friend or two, and learn what is new at Sullivan Renaissance in 2021.

Learn about grants for your community and business. Sullivan Renaissance Program Managers will speak about how their grants and programs can enhance public spaces and help to make businesses more welcoming. Denise Frangipane says, “Beautification is a marketing tool for towns, and for businesses. We are more than just flowers. Coming together over a common goal as simple as a garden leads to larger conversation and greater ideas, while helping to forge friendships and collaborations within a community. We have seen over twenty years how some of these conversations become so impactful as to have policy put in place to make sure the effort is continued.” Sims Foster, Co-founder of Foster Supply Hospitality and Chair of the Sullivan County Visitors Association will be talking about why he decided to invest in Sullivan County and how anyone can make an impact in

their own community through volunteerism. Not only is Mr. Foster proprietor of several local lodging and restaurant establishments, but he is also the founder of A Single Bite, an organization that gained recognition with the pandemic. A Single Bite joined forces with Operation Feed and is helping to feed thousands of people throughout the county. “Through the past decades, it could be said that Sullivan County has followed a classic gardener’s saying about the growth of a plant; Sleeps, Creeps, and Leaps. It’s a fitting comparison, especially when we think about Sullivan Renaissance, its founding, its commitment, and its perseverance to its communities. Through it all, the foundation of putting “We before I” has been a guide and a beacon that so many have responded to,” remarks Sims. Interns speak about their experience with Sullivan Renaissance and

how it has shaped their views on community service, in a short video directed and produced by Arly Marin-Leon. Arly is a former Sullivan Renaissance Intern, Steering Committee Denise Frangipane Member, and scholarship recipient. The evening will also feature an open forum for chat, as well as question and answers with grant program managers. The event is free but registration is required. A log-in link that can be accessed by smartphone, phone, tablet or computer will be sent prior to the event date. To register visit www.SullivanRenaissance.org or call the Sullivan Renaissance office at (845) 295-2445.

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16E

BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2020

MINDING OUR BUSINESS

Beginning of the hybrid model of teaching in FCSD: One observer’s view CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

on the welcoming faces of custodians, cafeteria workers and administrative staff. They were so glad to be where they longed to be. Virtual classes are just not the same as being in a live classroom. Even with masks on, you could see the smiling faces of the young children, their parents and school personnel. Welcome to the Hybrid Model at FCSD. How long it will last is uncertain because the Covid Virus is unpredictable. Now is a new beginning with the support of so many parents, so many educators, so many children, who have missed the comradery of being with their peers and being embraced emotionally by their teachers, staff and caring mentors. Ribbons, balloons and bright signs welcomed students back to the second home, the school

building. Cold and rainy weather were no obstacle for all the warm hearts aglow on the road to and

in the halls of Benjamin Cosor Elementary. Joy reigned throughout the day.

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beautiful feeling of excitement arose as parents in cars and bus drivers in their yellow vehicles returned to Fallsburg’s Benjamin Cosor Elementary School to drop off their precious cargoes of children wearing masks and warm coats on a chilly November morning. The day was the first day of inschool classes after almost nine months of closed school buildings, without children and their teachers enjoying each other’s company. Everyone had been experiencing a sense of loss, loss of structure, loss of companionship, loss of close connection that a normal school day creates. The so-called “new normal” was challenging and uprooting in so many ways. On November 30, one could see the smiles on the teacher’s faces,

70571

Ribbons, balloons and bright signs welcomed students back to the second home, the school building as did this stuffed Bee with its mask on to greet the students.

DECEMBER 2020

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

BUSINESS EDGE

17E

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18E

BUSINESS EDGE

ne for the history books. A year to remember. Unprecedented. Mishandled. The words and phrases that have been used to describe the shared experience of 2020 all point to what has seemingly set this year apart from those that came before. It would be crazy of me to say that this is not true, but I also believe strongly that while these challenges might be new or may be overwhelming, at SUNY Sullivan, we tapped into our past experience to rise to the occasion and stuck to our mission. A great option Community colleges are a community resource. They provide access to affordable post-secondary education opportunities for students to start college or train for a career and for adult learners to change careers or learn new skills to help them perform better in their current job. Community colleges also provide important access to their community for life-long learning opportunities to learn things that are of personal interest and well-being. Finally, they enrich their communities through the arts and entertainment. In short, community colleges model what is possible, they motivate and support their communities. What we accomplished As we approach the holidays and the end of 2020, I reflect on the last nine months. As has been noted in these pages, SUNY Sullivan was able to focus our effort in three main areas: continue to provide the mission-centered educational opportunities, keep our faculty, staff and students safe and sound; and finally, to provide support to the larger community in response to the pandemic. Increased educational opportunities Now, more than ever, healthcare is recognized as critically important to our community. In order to ensure that Sullivan County has well trained healthcare workers, SUNY Sullivan partnered with Empire State College to established three new program-to-program specific pathways. They are:

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SUNY Sullivan remains strong during a year of challenges BY JAY QUAINTANCE SUNY SULLIVAN PRESIDENT

• Associate of We made sure Applied Science that staff and facDegree (A.A.S.) in ulty could work Respiratory Care from home as to a Bachelor of much as possible Science Degree and we distributed (B.S.) in Allied laptops to students Health; who had to transi• Associate of tion to learning at Applied Science a distance. Degree (A.A.S.) in For those staff Medical Assistant and students who to a Bachelor of had to be on camScience Degree pus for classes or (B.S.) in Allied work, we institutDEMOCRAT FILE PHOTO BY KATHY DALEY ed a screening Health; • Associate of Applied Science mechanism and reduced access to the Degree (A.A.S.) or Associate Degree building to limit the possibility for (A.S.) Nursing to a Bachelor of exposure. Science Degree (B.S.) Nursing This fall, we began testing students Students who complete their proon a bi-weekly basis. To date, none gram at SUNY Sullivan will be able to of these tests has been positive. enroll in Empire State College and Big impacts complete the Bachelor Degree without When we surveyed our students we having to leave Sullivan County. found that the pandemic didn’t just We worked with The Center for impact them by moving the majority Discovery, New Hope Community, of instruction to distance modes. and ARC of Sullivan County to launch Students and their families were a new Direct Support Practice impacted directly by losing family Certificate Program. members to the disease, by losing These agencies are partnering with jobs and by suffering financial hardNY State to turn this program into a ship. We were able to move to using registered apprenticeship program so technology to provide personal counthat students will earn money to cover seling services to our students. the cost of college while they are In partnership with the Community learning new skills. We also began a Foundation of Orange and Sullivan new program that leads to certification the SUNY Sullivan Foundation was as a Credentialed Alcohol and able to start a Food Insecurity Fund to Substance Abuse Counselor. provide money to students to purSupporting our faculty, chase groceries. staff and students We also held a food drive to assist The COVID-19 pandemic presented with Thanksgiving meals for students challenges to our college community. and their families. We are currently Working with NY State, SUNY System raising money for a Holiday Gift Administration and community partFund. ners we were able to meet many of Using funds provided from the first those challenges in creative and supFederal CARES Act, we have been portive ways. able to make monetary awards to stu-

DECEMBER 2020

dents who have need that was caused by the pandemic. To date, these efforts collectively have provided more than $300,000 in assistance to students. Community Support Sullivan County is fortunate to have a culture of community support. We were able to partner with organizations like Sullivan 180, Garnet Health (formerly Catskill Regional Medical Center), New Hope Community, Sullivan County government and others to support their work. We leveraged our Community Learning platform to provide access to wellness programming provided free of charge by Sullivan 180 Community Health Champions. And Sullivan 180 volunteers worked with our Liberty Partnership Program to support student achievement. Our Nursing and Respiratory Therapy programs provided much needed medical supplies and Ventilators to the local hospital at the start of the pandemic, and our students from these programs assisted with patient care at the Sullivan County Care Center. Most recently we loaned a steam table from one of our kitchens to the Care Center when their’s failed. Our partnership with New Hope Community, the Hope Farm, continued to grow more than 10,000 lbs of high quality produce for New Hope’s residents. Additionally, the farm donated more than 1,000 lbs of produce to local food banks. Looking to the future While 2020 will not be soon forgotten, and we take time to reflect on all that was difficult and mourn our losses, we should also take time to celebrate the good. Our faculty, staff and student rose to the challenges as they arose in a way that truly makes us #SUNYSullivanStrong! If you would like to join us as a student, our Winter Term starts on December 22, 2020, and the Spring Semester starts on January 21, 2021. Registration is open. For more information go to www.sunysullivan.edu or contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@sunysullivan.edu.

BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2020

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BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2020