Sullivan County Business Edge Dec. 2019 by Sullivan County Democrat/Catskill-Delaware Publications

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

INSIDE: The push for a third lane on Route 17 continues

To the People: Closing out the year page 2E Fairfield Inn and Suites coming to Monticello page 3E County of Sullivan IDA Update page 4E 2019 an exciting year for Sullivan Catskills page 7E The year just past… the year ahead page 10E

FRED STABBERT III | DEMOCRAT

Local officials and lawmakers are continuing to push for the addition of a third lane on Route 17 in Sullivan and Orange Counties. Several miles of the highway, like this stretch looking west near exit 113 in Wurtsboro, already have three lanes. BY JOSEPH ABRAHAM

conomic development growth has caused increased traffic on Route 17 in Sullivan and Orange Counties. Now local officials and lawmakers are hoping to get the green light on funding for a project that would make it easier to travel to and from the neighboring counties in the state’s upcoming budget. In August 2018, 17-Forward-86 –– a coalition comprised of more than 200 members of economic development groups, construction trades, tourism groups and energy companies who support expanding the capacity of Route

17 –– was established. Last Wednesday, State Senators Jen Metzger, James Skoufis and Tim Kennedy (chairs the Committee on Transportation), joined local elected officials and members of 17-Forward-86 in Woodbury for a press conference advocating for the addition of a third lane on Route 17. The Senators discussed the necessary funding of $100 million per year needed in the Department of Transportation’s 2020 five-year capital plan to add a third lane to expand Route 17 to Interstate 86. “The prosperity of the region I represent requires efficient and convenient transportation between New York City and our Mid-Hudson and Catskills com-

munities, whether it’s our residents getting to work, our farmers getting their produce to market, or the many thousands of visitors that come to enjoy the tourist attractions and extraordinary beauty of our region,” Metzger said. “We face an immediate and urgent need to invest in the Route 17 expansion to accommodate the renaissance the region is experiencing and allow for future growth.”

What’s been done The New York State Department of Transportation released a thirteen-monthlong study on the Route 17 Transporta-

Please see RT. 17, page 12E

Growth and commitment highlight Chamber's year page 14E Real Estate market remains strong page 16E Sonny Patel joins Hudson Valley EDC page 17E Providers promoted at GHVHS page 18E Focus Media welcomes new VP Renee Bulla page 19E

BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2019

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Closing out the year on an upward trend To the People: As we close out 2019 all indicators point to the beginnings of a trend. That is, the steady transition of the Sullivan County economy from one that was cemented in seasonality, to more of year-round stability. Once again, we lead the Hudson Valley and are at the top in New York State in job growth at 10.6%, with unemployment remaining under 4% deep into the year. Where traditionally we would see double digit unemployment we are now experiencing 3.6% unemployment figures. This pattern looks to remain, going into 2020 with projects currently under construction and those yet to come providing fuel to support this trend moving forward. The challenge, however, is finding people to fill in the demand for the jobs we have created. Our latest migration research indicates we will need to attract more people in order to support the growth. Some of that will happen organically, but an effort

spearheaded by the Sullivan County Chamber dubbed “Welcome Home to Sullivan County” will be reaching out to promote the county as a great place to live and raise a family. Already plans are underway to reach out and target groups in the tri-state area CEO/President Marc Baez seeking to transition out of the more challenging urban environment to that of a more family friendly one. We now have more job opportunities to make the case. Hospitality continues to drive the economy with over 40% of all new jobs created in this sector. With the overwhelming success of the Sullivan Catskill Dove Trail and events centered around the 50th anniversary of Woodstock, the Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association is still experiencing state leading visitation numbers and working hard to target the trending media channels to continue to increase traveler activity and spending in Sullivan County. The Partnership will focus on diversifying the economy to bring varied industry sectors here. The effort to develop shovel-ready sites continues with the Old Route 17 corridor and the County’s landfill site slated to take a big

leap in 2020 toward becoming market ready. The IDA continues to put complex financial deals together utilizing its expansive incentive programs critical to supporting much needed business activity in areas where doing business is difficult. At a recent Community and Economic Development committee meeting, Chairman Ira Steingart expressed it best when he said, “As Sullivan County businesses, residents, economic development organizations and government, we should all be proud of what we have accomplished collectively over the past few years. If we can continue to work together this way, the future looks bright for Sullivan County …”. I can’t think of a better way to put it. May 2020 bring happiness and prosperity to all of Sullivan County. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! Sincerely,

Marc Baez President, Sullivan County Partnership Published by Catskill-Delaware Publications, Inc.

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New Castle Hotels & Resorts selected to manage Fairfield Inn and Suites N

ew Castle Hotels & Resorts (NCH) announced today that it has been selected to manage the 109-room Fairfield Inn in Monticello, with construction planned to begin the first quarter of 2020. The Fairfield Inn will be developed by Vasco Ventures in conjunction with Trodale Developers Inc. operating under the name 66 EB Partners, LLC, in the historic village of Monticello. In addition to managing the hotel upon completion, New Castle will provide industry expertise during the construction phase of the project. “New Castle is a great fit for our organization,” said Ephraim Vashovsky, president and co-founder of Vasco Ventures. “From the very beginning, they were tremendously helpful and accommodating. They will be able to offer valuable input and brand expertise during the development phase and we feel confident that they will operate our hotel as if it were their own, once we are open.” “We are honored that Vasco Ventures

has chosen us for their inaugural endeavor in the franchise hospitality sector,” said Julian Buffam, partner New Castle Hotels & Resorts. “The Fairfield brand is exactly the right choice for this project because it allows for localization and flexibility in design specifications that will enable us to create a sense of place and accommodate the unique needs of the market.” The Fairfield Inn Monticello will be located at 66 East Broadway, Monticello, in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains. The village is the county seat of Sullivan County and is undergoing a concerted redevelopment of its downtown since the 2018 opening of the $900 million Resorts World Catskills Casino. A rural vacation destination for generations, Sullivan County is home to Bethel Woods Center for the Arts and a host of ecotourism destinations including the Basha Kill Wildlife Refuge and Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River, which is a National Park.

This artist’s rendering shows the new hotel to be built at 66 East Broadway in Monticello.

Unique to the brand, the Fairfield Inn Monticello will offer 3,500 square feet of meeting/event space to capitalize on the area’s popularity as a rural escape and

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BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

County of Sullivan IDA Update By Jennifer Flad Executive Director County of Sullivan Industrial Development Agency

began work at the County of Sullivan Industrial Development Agency (IDA) in June 2013, and from my perspective the timing was great. Summer was the “quiet” season at the IDA, so I had plenty of time to become acquainted with the Agency before the busy winter season, when our administrative workload is most intense: development and approval of budgets; calculation, collection, and distribution of our projects’ payments in lieu of taxes; and preparation and submittal of numerous annual reports and filings. I was glad to have the summer to settle in, but I am very happy to report that in the years since, those “quiet” summer months have become a distant memory as the IDA has worked to keep pace with Sullivan County’s economic growth and development. Please read on for some highlights.

DEMOCRAT FILE PHOTO BY ISABEL BRAVERMAN

Catskills Food Hub Executive Director Cat Wilson, left, and Industrial Development Agency Executive Director Jen Flad stand outside the hub after the ribbon cutting ceremony in April.

Tax Incentives At its core, the IDA provides tax incentives to eligible businesses seeking to locate and expand here in the County.

The number of IDA tax abatement projects has risen from just over 50 in 2013 to approximately 65 at present. More significant has been the increase in

DECEMBER 2019

the value of the payments in lieu of taxes (PILOTs) we collect from our projects and distribute to Sullivan County, its towns, villages, and school districts. In 2013 the IDA distributed $4.1 million in PILOTs, rising to almost $6.5 million in 2019. Of course, our projects produce community benefits not limited to tax revenues. IDA projects reported approximately 2,515 full-time equivalent jobs at the end of 2013, increasing to approximately 4,990 at the end of 2018. From small medical offices to high-tech manufacturing facilities to landmark tourism destinations, the companies doing business with the IDA make a significant contribution to the County’s tax base, employment figures, and overall economic health. The IDA always works to adapt to economic development trends. In recent years we have supported the County as it has emerged as a leader in sustainable economic growth and development. Three years ago the IDA adopted a new tax incentive program to assist small and medium-scale solar companies. Since that time, we have approved ten community solar projects, and we anticipate more in 2020. Through these projects, Sullivan County residents and small businesses can buy

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Loan and Lease Financing Loan financing has long been an important component of the IDA’s suite of business incentives. We have provided loans to scores of Sullivan County businesses since the inception of our first revolving loan fund in 1985, and in recent years we have augmented and diversified our offerings. Since 2009 we have secured over $1.8 million in grant funding from the US Department of Agriculture Rural Development. We use these grant funds to purchase equipment which is then leased to local food and agriculture-related businesses. Through their lease payments, these businesses capitalize the IDA’s AgriBusiness Revolving Loan and Lease Fund. We currently have sixteen lease agreements in place, with three more anticipated in 2020, and approximately $270,000 available in the Agri-Business Revolving Loan and Lease Fund.

Community Economic Development After six years of planning and develop-

ment, the Catskills Food Hub opened its doors in early 2019. The IDA began the effort to develop a local food distribution hub back in 2013, and over the years the project has evolved and taken on a life of its own. A not-for-profit organization based in the Village of Liberty, the Catskills Food Hub (www.catskillsfoodhub.org) provides a brick-and-mortar facility and an online marketplace to connect buyers and sellers of fresh, local, healthy farm and food products. We are thrilled to see the project come to fruition and provide these much-needed services for our farmers, food producers, and food buyers.

Looking Ahead As we move into 2020, the IDA looks forward to Sullivan County’s continued economic growth. Our tourism businesses have generated a great deal of attention as large-scale facilities have come online, creating jobs, drawing visitors, and generating tax revenues. Together with our partners, we anticipate a continued emphasis on tourism as well as agriculture, manufacturing, light industrial, healthcare, and other sectors, as we seek to further diversify and strengthen Sullivan County’s economy. Here’s to a very busy year ahead!

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BUSINESS EDGE

A reflection… the year in Review 2019 was an exciting year for the Sullivan Catskills 2

019 was a very exciting year for the Sullivan Catskills – 50 doves flew into town, Woodstock celebrated 50 years, The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark opened its doors and 5 million travelers chose us as their preferred destination. Visitors continue to choose the Sullivan Catskills because of its authentic experiences, peaceful settings, extraordinary views and our Delaware River. We have abundant wildlife, and award-winning craft beverages, farm to table culinary delights and a budding arts & culture scene. Visitors embrace our celebrated past and welcome our emerging future as they create family memories. There is a special quality of life that is re-emerging in our quaint villages and hamlets. Main Streets are bustling with boutiques, restaurants, inns and specialty shops creating a sense of place and pride. These community characteristics are what visitors are looking for. They are looking to have a true Americana getaway by experiencing local culture and flare. We have this in abundance in the Sullivan Catskills! The SCVA wants to continue to preserve our history, beauty and partnership collaboration into 2020. Working together, we can attract more visitors, encourage more spending, beautify our main streets and raise the profile of the Sullivan Catskills as a unique travel destination offering memorable experiences.

More than 200 people attended the SCVA Holiday Party at the Kartrite Indoor Water Park in Monticello, including from the left: SCVA board member and Villa Roma Resort and Conference Center General Manager Paul Carlucci, SCVA Board Member and Lander River Trips owner Rick Lander, SCVA President and CEO Roberta Byron-Lockwood and Kartrite Marketing Manager Christopher Lockwood.

Attending the SCVA Holiday Party last week were Sullivan County Manager Josh Potosek, Deputy County Manager John Liddle and New York State Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther.

2019 Successes

Liberty Supervisor and SCVA Board Secretary Brian Rourke and Jennifer Shampine of Brian P. Rourke, P.C. in Liberty attended the SCVA Holiday Party.

• The Dove Trail was one of the marketing initiatives that brought a significant amount of recognition to the Sullivan Catskills. Generating an estimated 1.5 million dollars into our local economy, the project employed over 50 local artists, fostered community collaboration and outside visitors who returned multiple times to complete the trail. We even have edu-

cators working the Dove Trail into their curriculum and encouraged young artists to design their own doves which were displayed in galleries. The trail exceeded expectations and was a tourism driver for the county – excitement spawned from creativity, love, peace and community pride.

Please see SCVA, page 8E

BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2019

SCVA, from page 7E

It was a packed house as more than 200 guests attended the SCVA Holiday party at the Kartrite Resort and Indoor Waterpark on December 5 in Monticello. coverage in Condé Nast Traveler, The NY Times, Shape Magazine, Surface, AARP, Parents Magazine, The Telegraph, AFAR, and Saveur - just to name a few; and • Invested in co-op marketing initiatives which showcased the Sullivan Catskills at the World Travel Market in London and ITB Berlin in Germany. We also wrapped a Coach USA Bus and added electronic signage at Stewart Airport.

Additional successes • A partnership with SUNY Sullivan, announcing the Catskill Hospitality Institute - a combination of credit-bearing academic degree programs, community learning enrichment courses, professional development training and much more. A unified goal to prepare students who are passionate about the service industry so they may grow into outstanding hospitality managers, culinary arts leaders, eco-

adventure, and food-tourism experts. Actor Lawrence Fishburne will host several segments on PBS about this initiative and commercials will be airing throughout major cities in the Northeast; • Three distinguished awards – thanks to our marketing communications partners at Fisher-Mears Associates, with over 18,000 entries combined, our beautiful dove trail poster won an American Graphic Design Award; and our travel

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• Woodstock weekend went off without a hitch! From Roscoe to Wurtsboro, we celebrated our legacy through music, art, food and some very special events. We sang along with Melanie, Santana, Arlo Guthrie, Ringo Starr, and John Fogerty spiking peace signs along the way. The event received media coverage bringing a global spotlight on the Sullivan Catskills. • The SCVA team along with supporting partners: • Attended a variety of industry and tourism tradeshows - International Pow Wow, American Bus Association, New York City Receptives, The New York Times Travel Show, I Love NY Media Nights and several major outdoor, attraction and golf shows – exposing us to thousands of future visitors; • Presented our very first Sullivan Catskills Media Night in NYC with over 50 members of the press in attendance. We networked, shared stories and debuted our traveling dove to promote the Sullivan Catskills Dove Trail. A marketing opportunity we plan to expand in 2020; • Hosted over 50 press trips. Tour operators, influencers, and members of the media came from Australia, Germany, Austria, the UK, Ireland, China, Russia, Scotland and the continental US. These familiarization tours led to some amazing

DECEMBER, 2019

BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

The figures tell it all… tourism is pumping dollars into the Sullivan County economy.

County would have to pay an additional $2,238 annually to maintain the same level of government services.

What is next for the SCVA and the Sullivan Catskills? The SCVA’ strategy for 2020 is to expand to include television commercials, increased digital marketing, influencer outreach, and more doves! Through market research and assessment, we will work to create new strategies that are innovative, create economic stability, increase tourism visitation and spending and expand our reach to untapped markets. Our team and Board will work with Berkeley Young, of Young Strategies, to create of roadmap for success for next year and beyond. We’ll also soon welcome Kenoza Hall, a new boutique hotel from Foster Supply Hospitality and The Eldred Preserve project. There is more development in the mix - so stay tuned! Our new travel guide will also be available in late December, last year we distributed over 100,000 copies and expect to increase distribution next year.

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guide was awarded the Gold Hermes Creative Award (for the 7th time). We were also awarded NYSTIA’s Tourism Excellence Award for Marketing; • We hit over 618 million impressions in national publications like Fodor’s Travel, Forbes, USA Today, Men’s Journal, and NY Family Magazine thanks to our hardworking PR Team, The Door; • The Catskills region was the recipient of Lonely Planet’s 2019’s 2nd Best Region to visit, featuring Sullivan Catskills experiences. We were the only region in the United States to receive this honor; • Our social media following has grown organically from 25,000 in 2018 to 51,000 in 2019 (a 52 percent increase). Thanks to our social media partners, True Food Collective, we continue to have the highest social following in the Catskills/Mid-Hudson Regions; reaching over 3 million people; and • Most notably, visitor spending grew to $515 million dollars in 2018 – a 14.5 percent increase from 2017. Were it not for tourism-generated state and local taxes, the average household in Sullivan

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SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

Catskill Hudson Bank will be opening up its newest branch in 2020 – across the street from where the bank was born in 1993. Located on Route 42 North, Monticello, the state-of-the-art branch is the bank’s largest office by volume, handling nearly 20% of the business.

By Fred Stabbert lll

y most accounts 2019 seemed to be a very good year to be in business in Sullivan County. And while “20-20” is usually reserved for hindsight, the Business Edge asked some of Sullivan County’s business leaders what their forecast was for the upcoming year.

Scott Samuelson One of the most anticipated openings in 2020 will be the Eldred Preserve. “It’s massive,” Chief Operating Officer Scott Samuelson said of the building project, which is located at 1040 State Route 55, just north of downtown Eldred. “People will not believe it when they see it. “Dan Silna has spared no expense – he really wanted to build an impressive resort,” Samuelson said. “From the exterior, to the fixtures to the furniture, everything is top of the line. Samuelson said the $30 million project opening will be in late Spring, early Summer 2020 and will feature a restaurant, lodging and event space. “The restaurant will be named the Old Homestead at Eldred Preserve and will have windows overlooking the pond,” Samuelson said. The Old Homestead at Eldred Preserve will have seating for up to 180, including the outdoor seating in season. The main

DECEMBER 2019

PATRICIO ROBAYO

One of the more spectacular projects of 2020 will be The Eldred Preserve, located on Route 55 in Eldred. The $30 million project will include a restaurant, event space and 28 luxury rooms. It is set to open in late spring, early summer.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

The year just past... the year ahead

bar will have seating for up to 90 patrons, including the outdoor seating. The event space, which can accommodate up to 125 people for a sitdown formal dinner, will be called the Eldred Preserve. It will host everything from cabarets, comedy shows, event celebrations, weddings or any other event needing a great space. The cabaret or show performance seating will come in at 120 while the event space can hold up to 215 for a theater performance. The lodging part of the business will be called Bradstan Boutique Hotel at Eldred Preserve. Ed Dudek will be the General Manager of the hotel, which will have 28 luxury rooms. “It [the total project] is going to be a lot of fun and a really cool thing for the area,” Samuelson said. “We are exited and will have a lot of people coming on board. “We will have between 25-30 full-time employees and, if you add in part-timers, we will be in the 40-50 employee range,” he said.

“We will have two kitchens at the Old Homestead – one for a la carte and one for catering – plus a host of employees for housekeeping, front office and many other positions.” That doesn’t even count the many contractors which will be needed for lawn maintenance and many other tasks. “If you know a good window washer, you have a customer ready and waiting,” Samuelson laughed. “We really want people to come and enjoy themselves and make this their second home,” he said. “It is so beautiful and comfortable.”

Phil Vallone President of Rolling V Bus Corp. and The Roscoe Beer Company, Phil Vallone said he is “Optimistic about the economy in 2020 – but we are always optimistic.” Vallone said every business comes with its own unique set of challenges and day-to-day headaches but in the end it’s how you deal with these challenges and respond to the changes in the

economy that make the difference. In 2019, Rolling V moved into new headquarters in Liberty and Vallone said that investment showed how much his company values its employees, the community and how you can take a stagnant property and make it a useful part of your business and the community. “The building is dynamic and a statement property for our company which shows how much we care,” Vallone said. “At the Roscoe Beer Company our mission statement is to be an economic driver for our community and I think we have done that.” Vallone said that he has some plans on the drawing board for 2020 in Roscoe which will enhance the properties around the Roscoe Beer Company. Stay tuned.

Randy Resnick “We had a phenominal year in 2019,” Randy Resnick, owner of Bernie’s Holiday Restaurant and The Sullivan in Rock Hill said. “We earned it.” Resnick said his host of companies try and stay on top of local, state and national trends and adapt their businesses as quickly as possible. “You need to be smart and stay on the front line,” Resnick said. “[As a businessperson] you need to recognize what is going on and change and adapt for it. “I’ll give you an example. Our future is

with millenials, who are going to be our customers for the next 20 years,” Resnick said. “They are more about the experience rather than the product or service. We are changing to adapt to that.” In 2020 Resnick sees Sullivan County continuing to grow and that is why he has invested in opening a new grocery market in Liberty. “We are looking for more growth,” he said. Resnick and his brother, Daniel “Butch” Resnick are involved in many businesses, including Daniel Resnick Rentals, Crust Italian Eatery, Brew, The Sullivan, Supermarket Parts Warehouse, Real Steel, Rock Hill Trading Post, Resnick Energy, Res-Bear Propane, Downtown Mountaindale Development, BHR and Sullivan Fabrication.

George Kinne Jeff Bank President and CEO George Kinne said, “Jeff Bank was pleased to continue to support the community in 2019 with a variety of products and serv-

BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2019

ices to assist our customers with their financial needs. “We proudly financed new businesses and those businesses that sought expansion. We financed new home purchases for individuals and families throughout the areas we serve in Sullivan and Orange Counties, among other areas in the Hudson Valley,” he said. “Our staff and their families supported many local events, parades, fundraisers, non-profit charities and a variety of organizations that benefit our communities. “We have fortunately had a solid year thus far financially and look forward to a prosperous year in 2020. As a banking institution, we closely monitor and are directly impacted by changing interest rates and broader economies,” he said. “2020 will likely be an interesting year given some national economic uncertainty, political elections, among other items. We expect to continue to be a staple of the Sullivan and Orange County business community, providing a safe place for individuals and businesses to bank.”

Foster Supply Hospitality is coming off a dynamic 2019 which saw much growth for the company. Its newest project, Kenzoa Hall, located in Kenoza Lake, will be opening very soon. It is located at the former John and Kathy Quirk farm overlooking Kenoza Lake.

Kevin McLaren “Our new branch on Route 42 North in Monticello is coming great,” Catskill Hudson Bank CEO Kevin McLaren said. “We are probably looking at a February [2020] opening with a Grand Opening in the Spring. “Everything is buttoned up and now we are working on the tile, painting and all the finer points,” he said. “It will obviously be spectacular when it’s done. It is our biggest branch – representing 20 percent of the bank – so we had to go big. “I see Sullivan County as having a lot of momentum with continued growth,” McLaren said. “Our bank is fortunate to be there and the continued investment is great for everybody.”

Sims Foster “For Foster Supply 2019 was a growth year in revenue for sure,” Sims Foster, Co-Founder of Foster Supply Hospitality, said. “All our properties saw more revenue

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Year over Year and we continued to welcome more guests to Western Sullivan county,” he said. “What is interesting is to see the repeat guests come back over and over again. That is a very important sign that our area is not just a ‘one and done’ destination. “It is becoming a place where visitors are coming back to again and again. In 2020 I think we are going to see the foundational guests continue to support our growth and also a whole new layer of people who are going to ‘find’ us as well,” Foster said. “It will be a great year for Sullivan County.” Foster Supply Hospitality’s properties include The DeBruce, The Arnold House Tavern, The Bar Room & Restaurant at The North Branch Inn, Piccolo Paese Ristorante Italiano, The Cabin at Hessinger-Lare, and Nine River Road. The company will soon be opening Kenoza Hall, a new boutique hotel in Kenoza Lake.

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BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

By Fred Stabbert lll

DECEMBER 2019

PATRICIO ROBAYO

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

The year just past... the year ahead

George Kinne Jeff Bank President and CEO George Kinne said, “Jeff Bank was pleased to continue to support the community in 2019 with a variety of products and serv-

BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2019

Sims Foster “For Foster Supply 2019 was a growth year in revenue for sure,” Sims Foster, Co-Founder of Foster Supply Hospitality, said. “All our properties saw more revenue

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SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2019

RT. 17: Expansion Continued from front page tion Corridor in May 2013, recommending that a general use third lane be added in each direction. The study was funded with $1 million secured by U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer. The report found that existing congestion and delays on Route 17 will worsen over the near-and long-term and that an additional lane would alleviate the segment of the corridor that is projected to experience the highest levels of congestion. In 2018, Senator Skoufis worked with his legislative colleagues to secure $5 million to advance the environmental and design activities related to the construction of a third travel lane along the Route 17 corridor in Orange and Sullivan counties, a critical first step in the process of the expansion. This past May, the DOT issued a request for expressions of interest for an engineering firm to begin a scoping and preliminary review process and in October selected the firm WSP. “Bringing Senate Transportation Committee Chairman Tim Kennedy to our region this week to get a first-hand view of our transportation needs and meet with

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

New York State Senator Jen Metzger discussed the importance of a third lane on Route 17 in Sullivan and Orange Counties at a press conference last week in Woodbury. stakeholders was just a first step,” Metzger told the Sullivan County Democrat on Thursday. “We will be working with the

Majority Leader and Senator Kennedy to press for the Route 17 expansion as part of the final Five-Year DOT Capital Plan,

which must be approved by the Legislature and the Governor as part of the 2020-21 State budget. I plan to invite Senator Kennedy (D-Buffalo) back to our region to hold a public hearing on the proposed DOT Capital Plan so that our residents, businesses, and local and county governments can weigh in on it. Other priorities of mine for this capital plan include increasing CHIPS funding for local governments to maintain local roads and ramping up investments in public transportation in upstate communities.” NYS Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther has also been pushing for the project. Gunther said that a third lane on Route 17, “Is going to be a necessity.” She noted that the area depends on tourism and in order for people to be happy they have to be able to get where they want to go as quickly as possible. Gunther said she plans on continuing to work together with fellow elected officials to lobby the executive branch for the DOT funds. She added that sometimes these projects take a really longtime, but with all the economic development in Sullivan and Orange Counties that has occurred and will continue, it is important to increase the capacity of our roadways.

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BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

Sullivan County Government is one of the members of the 17-Forward-86 coalition and Luis Alvarez, Chairman of the Sullivan County Legislature, is also in favor of a third lane on Route 17. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sullivan County has long been supportive of a third lane on Route 17/future I-86 from our border with lOrange County to our border with Delaware County,â&#x20AC;? Alvarez said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But even if that third lane only spanned Bloomingburg to Monticello or Liberty, it would relieve significant d traffic flows on summer Fridays and Sundays, and also during increasing amounts of largescale events at our major attractions along and beyond that corridor. As far as Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m concerned, the sooner, the better.â&#x20AC;? Someone who has been pushing for a third lane since fall 2017 is Sullivan County Partnership for Economic Development President/CEO Marc Baez. He noted that heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fighting

for the third lane to go from Harriman to exit 100 in Liberty. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen tremendous growth in Sullivan County the last several years, most of which is in hospitality and tourism, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s increased visitation significantly,â&#x20AC;? Baez said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In order to address this proactively, we need to offer that traffic relief for people to get here.â&#x20AC;? Baez added that as the local economy becomes more diverse, a third lane will also help those new businesses get things in and out of the county. Additional benefits that Baez referenced was the project would make Route 17â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eventual transition to Interstate 86 easier because the process of developing the third lane is being engineered and designed to bring the highway to interstate standards. It will also help address any discovered safety issues with any of the exits involved. â&#x20AC;&#x153;At this point weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re seeing good signals,â&#x20AC;? Baez said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I hope it gets done.

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BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

Growth and commitment highlight Chamber’s year By Jaime Schmeiser President & CEO Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce

s the Sullivan County business community grows, so does the Sullivan Chamber of Commerce. Our membership is more dynamic, innovative and focused on the strength of the collective business community than ever before. 2019 was an exciting year. New faces, new initiatives coupled with our objective to make lasting contributions to the social, cultural and economic well-being of Sullivan County has garnered attention and increased in momentum. The Chamber has taken on a more prominent role in national, state and local advocacy organizations to represent our businesses and communities at a higher level. We have also spearheaded new initiatives; added more learning opportunities and worked diligently to improve the benefits and resources that the Chamber

DECEMBER 2019

Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce & Industry 2019 Membership Highlights 565 Members

provides to bring value and drive results. From veteran’s affairs to legislative affairs and economic development to education, the Chamber’s work represents the activities of one incredible office Manager, Claudia Chaiet, more than 24 volunteers and me, deeply committed to strengthening Sullivan County through business engagement. I am proud of the work of the Chamber and thank the 2018-2019 Board Chair, Brad Rutledge, and the Board of Directors for their vision, leadership and ongoing support of this vital organization. While the close of our year allows for assessment and perspective, the start of a new year brings with it a new hope of what can be. It allows for enhancing and expanding the efforts of the previous year and for a run at new initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life and business atmosphere of Sullivan County and our region. I am confident in the continued growth of our county and communities and am excited about what’s ahead. It is truly an honor and a privilege to partner with

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Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Jaimie Schmeiser addresses the more than 225 people who attended The Pride Awards Gala in October at The Eagle’s Nest in Bloomingburg. and represent you as the collective voice of business in Sullivan County. Best wishes for a joyous holiday season and a prosperous new year.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER, 2019

BUSINESS EDGE

15E

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• U.S. Congressman Antonio Delgado Small Business Task Force appointment, Rural Broadband issues • Main Street America • The National Main Street Center – Revitalization of downtown corridors • Sullivan County Workforce Development – Addressing barriers to employment locally, attracting and retaining new talent • Destination Development Association – Addressing quality of life issues • Sullivan County Complete Count 2020 – Assisting the County in getting a complete and accurate count for the next census • Sullivan County Community and Economic Development – Advocating for

our businesses at the county level • Sullivan County Sneak Peek 2020 – Quality of life issues • Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Council – Assisting member businesses with CFA grant applications • Local Chambers of Commerce and Business Associations – Keeping our county connected in partnership • Local Municipalities – Advocacy for revitalization efforts, issues that affect member businesses • Civic Organizations – Civic and quality of life issues • Youth Groups – Civic and quality of life issues • Senior Citizens Groups from the County – Quality of life issues

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It was a full house in October for the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce’s Pride Awards Gala at The Eagles Nest in Bloomingburg. Business and community leaders from throughout Sullivan County were honored.

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16E

BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2019

Sullivan County real estate market remains strong By Cathleen Breen President Sullivan County Board of Realtors

ith shorter days and colder temperatures, it appears that winter is indeed here! Although winter arrives officially on December 21st, we are surely readying to celebrate the holidays, closeout the calendar year, and prepare for a new year – 2020! And while it is cold out, there is heart-warming good news for real estate in Sullivan County: The housing market continues to stand firm. Housing inventory may be lower statewide; however, the trend in Sullivan County appears promising. Sales data comparing housing inventory from October 2018 to October 2019 showed a slight uptick. During this same period, new listings were relatively the same but sold at a greater rate and a higher median sales price. For homebuyers looking to get a mortgage, there continues to be good news when it comes to interest rates. According to the New York State Association of Realtors, mortgage rates continue to remain low. Mortgage rates currently sit at 3.75%, according to Freddie Mac’s most recent numbers – nearly a 1% difference from the monthly average a year ago. Fannie Mae predicts rates will clock in between

3.5% and 3.6% throughout the next year. With less competition, it’s a great time for prospective buyers to house hunt. That means it is a great time to showcase your house and ready it to sell. Low-cost and straightforward steps are cost-effective and easy to implement without straining the wallet or purse, especially at this time of year. For instance, fresh coats of paint go a long way and remember to keep windows clean and clear out cluttered closets. Given the days are shorter, be sure to have adequate outdoor lighting so your house can shine and keep walkways clear of snow and ice. Buying or selling real estate is a big undertaking, and working with a Realtor can make all the difference. Realtors must abide by a strict Code of Ethics, so you know you are getting a dedicated professional. So, enjoy this month with all the festivities and bustle and get out the hot chocolate and your warmest boots, winter is a great time to sell and buy real estate, especially in Sullivan County! DEMOCRAT FILE PHOTO BY SARAH CLARK

Cathleen Breen is a Licensed Real Estate Salesperson at Eagle Valley Realty in Narrowsburg and President of the Sullivan County Board of Realtors.

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BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER, 2019

17E

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York-registered beer in its stores. It also has a Growler Club at each location where customers can choose from more than a dozen craft beers on tap for growler fills. “We are excited to welcome Sonny Patel and Beer World to the HVEDC Board of Directors,” said Mike Oates, President and CEO of HVEDC. “Sonny has grown his business into an empire in the Hudson Valley, so he will no doubt be able to provide excellent insight into building and growing a business in the region. He will be a tremendous asset to our team.” “I am honored to join HVEDC as a member of its board of directors,” Patel said. “I am looking forward to collaborating with the board of directors as we work together on regionwide projects to continue to improve the business community of the Hudson Valley.”

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udson Valley Economic Development Corp. (HVEDC) announced the addition of Sonny Patel, owner of Beer World, to its board of directors. Beer World has locations in Catskill, Chester, Kingston, Liberty, Monroe, Monticello and now Middletown, where it recently hosted a grand opening celebration at 590 Route 211. The event was well attended, with beer tastings of more than 30 different beers and hard ciders. According to Patel, Beer World’s mission is to serve its customers with the greatest selection of beer, with great prices and customer service that is second to none, 365 days a year. The beer superstores carry one of the most diverse full selections of craft beer, domestic, imports and kegs – from around the world and around the corner. Beer World strives to have all New

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Sonny Patel of Beer World joins HVEDC

18E

BUSINESS EDGE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2019

Providers promoted within the GHVHS Medical Group T

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Aamir Gilani, MD, MPH, FCCP Center (ORMC) since 2018. Dr. Gilani holds Board certifications in Critical Care, Internal and Pulmonary Medicine. He received his medical degree from the Army Medical College in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. He earned an MPH in Health Policy and Outcomes Management from The Dartmouth Institute in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Eric Martin, MD, FAAOS

(Orthopedics) has been promoted to Medical Director for Surgical Specialties within the GHVHS Medical Group. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Martin will oversee the Surgical Specialty physicians and Advanced Practice Providers within the GHVHS Medical Group. These Surgical specialties include General surgery, Orthopedics, Vascular surgery, Urology, Thoracic surgery, Trauma and Trauma Orthopedics. In this new role, he will report to Medical Group’s Chief Medical Officer, Izabela Nowosielski, MD, MBA. Dr. Martin has been a member of ORMC and Catskill Regional Medical Center Medical Staff for over 15 years. After joining GHVHS Medical Group in 2015, he assumed the leadership role of Chairman of Department of Orthopedics at ORMC and has played an active role in developing the Bone and Joint Program at ORMC. Dr. Martin is Board-certified in orthopedics by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons and is also a Fellow of the American Academy of

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Eic Martin, MD, FAAOS Orthopedic Surgeons. Dr. Martin received his medical degree from New York University. He also completed a reconstructive joint surgery Fellowship from Rush University/St. Luke’s Medical Center and Central DuPage Hospital in Chicago, Illinois. For more information including office hours visit orangeregionalmedicalgroup.org or catskillregionalmedicalgroup.org.

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he Greater Hudson Valley Health System Medical Group is pleased to announce the following promotions: Aamir Gilani, MD, MPH, FCCP (Pulmonary/Critical Care) has been promoted to Medical Director for Medical Specialties, GHVHS Medical Group. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Gilani will oversee the Specialty Physicians and Advanced Practice Providers within the Greater Hudson Valley Health System Medical Group (GHVHS). These Specialty services include Rheumatology, Gastroenterology, Cardiology, Infectious Diseases, Pulmonary/Critical Care, and Hematology/Oncology. In this new role, he will report to the Medical Group’s Chief Medical Officer, Izabela Nowosielski, MD, MBA. Dr. Gilani has been an employee of the GHVHS Medical Group since 2015. In the last four years, in addition to building his clinical practice, he has championed multiple Quality Improvement Initiatives and served as a Director of Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program at Orange Regional Medical

DECEMBER, 2019

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

BUSINESS EDGE

19E

Focus Media welcomes Renée Bulla to the team as Vice President 65960

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Renée Bulla

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

honored by the Orange County Chamber as Volunteer of the Year in 2012. “Renée is a seasoned marketing professional with a wealth of experience and an outstanding understanding of the Hudson Valley market,” said Focus Media President and CEO Josh Sommers. “She’s also a leader in our community, with a track record of service and volunteerism. Her background makes her a perfect fit for Focus Media, and I’m confident our clients will benefit from her expertise.” Bulla grew up in Maryland and attended the University of Maryland. She now lives in Orange County with her husband of 22 years - between them, they have a teenage daughter in college, three adult children, one son-in-law, one grandchild and two rescue dogs!

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enée Bulla has joined Focus Media – the Hudson Valley’s largest and award-winning, full-service public relations and marketing firm – as a Vice President. Bulla brings 22 years of advertising agency experience to the firm. In her position, Bulla supervises and manages key client relationships, serves as a liaison between the client and the administrative and creative teams, and communicates the details of each project and campaign. She is actively involved in directing, obtaining and analyzing the market research and media analysis that is used to produce each client’s strategic marketing plan. Bulla is a member of the Board of Directors for both the Orange County Chamber of Commerce and Abilities First and is a former board member of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce. Renée is in her eighth year of cochairing the Orange County Chamber’s Marketing/PR Committee and has been the co-chair of their Snow Ball committee for the past five years. Bulla currently serves as a member of Abilities First’s Advancement Committee and is also a member of their Signature Event Committee. Bulla is a regular speaker for the SCORE Business Institute where she conducts a business seminar and workshop on media and marketing. She was honored in 2008 as an Athena Award nominee. The Athena award recognizes outstanding business and professional individuals for excellence in their chosen field, for providing valuable service to their community, and for actively assisting women in their attainment of professional goals and leadership skills. Bulla was also

20E

GIFT GUIDE II

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

DECEMBER 2019

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