PRIDE 2015 Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce Proudly Recognizing Sullivan County Pride for Twenty-four Years A Special Section of the Sullivan County Democrat
Business Family of the Year
Jan, Alyce and Eli Van Etten Van Etten Oil
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Story and Photo By Matt Shortall t all started 75 years ago, when Richard Van Etten relocated from Kingston to Monticello as an employee of the Texaco Oil company. Four years after that, in 1944, Richard went into business for himself. He set up shop with one truck and had an office along the O&W Railroad on St. John Street, where he could From left, Alyce, Jan and Eli Van Etten with “Eagle.” receive oil delivery via the railway. Nowadays, the railway is gone, but the and has risen to the rank of vice presiVan Etten family name remains. dent. Since then, Eli has expanded the Richard’s son, Jan, has kept the business VEO brand to cover propane sales, as going strong for the last 44 years. He well as oil and gas. expanded VEO to include a chain of gas “Business has gotten so good that our stations and convenience stores. He is propane sales have doubled every year,” also known for his community involvesaid Eli, who was named the “Man of the ment as president of the Monticello Year” in 2013 by the Hudson Valley Oil Rotary Club. Heat Council. Jan was president of VEO through some For the Van Ettens, family has always tumultuous years of economic booms and been inseparable from business. Eli’s recessions. Through all that time, wife wife, Jennifer, owns and operates a Alyce has always been by his side. pilates studio, “Pilates Body” on the Their son, Eli, came onboard in 1991 second floor of the VEO building.
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Congratulations to the Van Etten Oil Family on receiving the Pride Award for Business Family of the Year!
457 Broadway, Monticello, NY 845-791-4303 2 P R I D E AWA R D S
Pride2015 Published by Catskill-Delaware Publications, Inc., publishers of the Sullivan County Democrat, in cooperation with the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce. Publisher Fred Stabbert III Editor Frank Rizzo Design and Layout Rosalie Mycka Display Advertising Director Liz Tucker Advertising Sales Cecilia Lamy, Barbara Matos & Tera Luty Advertising Design Petra Duffy Business Manager Sue Owens Production Tracy Swendsen & Ruth Huggler
2015
The Van Ettens have extended that sense of family to their customers, which is the reason some of them have kept coming back for decades. “When Cathy Paty called and told us we had won a Pride Award, I was completely taken by surprise,” said Jan of the Chamber of Commerce president/CEO. Indeed, the employees working at Van Etten Oil must feel like they’re part of an extended family. Without the skill and dedication of their tradesmen and technicians, the family business wouldn’t have thrived all these many years. It’s people like Mike Foster, VEO’s Propane Operations manager, and Service Manager Patrick McGar that keep things running smoothly. “Mike and Pat both have a tremendous level of expertise,” said Eli. Thanks to this legacy and ongoing success, the Van Ettens will be among the top awardees during the Pride Awards
brunch at the Villa Roma on May 3 as the “Business Family of the Year. “We’re having all of our employees come with us to the awards brunch at the Villa Roma,” said Jan, “because they’re as much a part of the award as we are.” The invitation includes all 13 of them, as well as their spouses. After a long and cold winter of providing desperately needed heat and fuel to customers, it’s time for some much deserved celebration. “We’re pleased and very humbled to be chosen for this award,” said Eli, “but the honor truly belongs to our employees who work so hard, as well as all the customers who have kept their business with us for years.” “They’re truly an upstanding family and represent everything that good business should be,” said Town of Thompson Supervisor Bill Rieber, who nominated the Van Ettens.
Congratulations Van Etten Family & All the Pride Winners!
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Congratulations to Glenn Pontier, Executive Director of Sullivan Renaissance, on your award for Distiguished Service.
Your friends at Sullivan Renaissance are proud!
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We appreciate your enthusiasm, commitment and dedication to the betterment of Sullivan County.
2015
Distinguished Service
Glenn Pontier Sullivan Renaissance Story and photo by Fred Stabbert lll t’s easy to win a Distinguished Service award when you have the whole county working for you,” Sullivan Renaissance Executive Director Glenn Pontier said, spinning an old Will Rogers’ quote. Pontier said the success of Sullivan Renaissance is due in large part to the vision and inspiration of founder Sandra Gerry as well as the hard work and dedication of hundreds – if not thousands – of volunteers. Sullivan Renaissance is a county-wide beautification program which was started 15 years ago and has grown to include every community in Sullivan County. “Clearly I had a role to play and played it well,” Pontier said. “If Sullivan County didn’t look good I wouldn’t be winning this award. That’s success.” Pontier noted that Gerry, a former schoolteacher, has taught the Sullivan Renaissance staff to look at things from a different perspective. Not one to rest on past laurels, Gerry has continually challenged Pontier and his
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Sullivan Renaissance is celebrating its 15th Anniversary in 2015, and Glenn Pontier has been its only Executive Director.
staff to reach out to various sectors of the community, including the Hasidics and Hispanics and second homeowners. And while some Renaissance projects are just getting started, many communities throughout Sullivan County “have graduated” the program. “Roscoe has been through college, graduate school and beyond,” Pontier said, referring to the high level of success the community has had in recent years. “I’m as proud as any teacher could be,” he said. “Does the teacher get the credit? Maybe the credit for unlocking the potential and educating [the students].” A long-time Sullivan County resident – CONTINUED ON PAGE 6
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Congratulations Glenn!
2015
You are an inspiration to many people, but mostly to your family... you’re the best! Love Ari, Zac & Emily, Bryan & Jane, Chris & Alanna, Elena, Nicole, Gregg & Deborah, Sharon, Clara & Percy, and all the rest.
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but not a native – Pontier points out how peoples’ pride in their communities has played a major role in the program. Communities like Grahamsville/Neversink, Kauneonga Lake and Hurleyville (with help from The Center for Discovery) also stand out as huge successes. He also recalls his days as editor of The River Reporter when one of his reporters, David Hulse, invented the idea of Litterpluck, a county-wide clean-up effort which focused on picking up trash. The River Reporter handed the program over to then-Sullivan County Clerk George Cooke, who widened its focus to the entire county. Pontier said that when he joined Renaissance 15 years ago, “I was never thinking you could take it [beautifying the county] so much further. “I had not seen the beauty part of it and creating beautiful spaces,” he said. “By planting gardens we were appealing to
peoples’ sense of beauty. “I’m an organizer,” he said. “I’ve done it all my life. First as an anti-war organizer during the Vietnam War. “Back then war was like gravity… it was everywhere,” he remembered. “Many of my friends went into the service and I respect their choice.” The son of a minister, Pontier eventually would spend time in jail for his decision not to fight. Today he still stands by his decision and believes America has never done enough for its veterans. “You can’t ask them to go to war and not give something back to them,” he said. “We owe our veterans forever.” This sense of fairness and balance in his life has served Pontier well during his 69 years and he is certainly proud of his latest effort at community organizing – Sullivan Renaissance. “That I’m connected to all these people, it’s easy to look good,” he said.
Congratulations to all the Honorees.
You are the Pride of Sullivan County 369 Broadway Monticello, NY www.kristt.biz 845-794-6639 16497
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Les Kristt & Gene Kelly
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Distinguished Achievement
Charles Degliomini Empire Resorts, Inc. Story and photo by Matt Shortall
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CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 2015
Charlie Degliomini was the celebrity “First Caster” at Roscoe’s Junction Pool in the annual ceremony to mark the opening day of trout season.
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harlie Degliomini may have grown up in the city, but he’s got the country in his heart. Degliomini has been the Executive Vice President of Governmental Affairs and Corporate Communications at Empire Resorts Inc. since February 2008. Empire Resorts is a partner in building the Montreign Casino at the site of the former Concord Resort Hotel. It is expected to open in 2017. Outside of Empire Resorts, Degliomini is a director in several organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club of Wallkill (which has a strong component in Sullivan County), the New York State Gaming Association, and the Hudson Valley Economic Development Committee (HVEDC). The best part of Degliomini’s job is, without a doubt, the people he gets to meet. Degliomini immediately noticed Sullivan County’s small town charm. “I have met the most fantastic people,” said Degliomini. “People who have never given up on Sullivan County and who have taken me under their wing. People like Alan and Sandra Gerry, Phil and Donna Vallone, Steve Vegliante and Dali Levy, Ira and Ruby Gold. All the families who have, and continually look
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other places with more money don’t. Degliomini looks at what we have to for, opportunities to help improve offer and sees untapped potential. everyday life in the county. During the “Whether it’s the rivers running through time I have worked here, this entire Roscoe, the lakes, golf courses, skiing at community has welcomed me with open Holiday Mountain, hiking, boating and arms. For that, I am eternally grateful.“ kayaking – Sullivan County has four Degliomini has high hopes for what seasons of outdoor experience for Empire Resorts can do for Sullivan visitors and guests,” said Degliomini. “It’s County. “There’s a lot an amazing overall of interest in this area,” amenity that we plan on “I have met the most said Degliomini. “We’re vigorously promoting.” committed to investing Degliomini, who holds fantastic people, people in this $1 billion project a degree in political that’s expected to drive science from Queens who have never given up over four million peoCollege, is also a family ple to Sullivan County on Sullivan County and man. He and his wife, every year.” Nidya, have two chilBut Sullivan County who have taken me under dren, Eric, 22, and has something that Nicole, 17. their wing.”
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Young Emerging Leader
Melinda Meddaugh CCE, Sullivan County Planning Melinda KetchamMeddaugh in her element – a greenhouse at Cornell Cooperative Extension in Liberty.
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2015
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Story and Photo by Allison Ruef
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hrough her role as Agriculture and Natural Resources leader, Melinda Ketcham-Meddaugh provides a basic and essential function to agricultural industry and production in Sullivan County: Coordination. A shared position between Cornell Cooperative Extension and the County of Sullivan, Meddaugh can be found working with agricultural educators, students and farmers to provide training, implement new projects and help grow businesses through diversification and preservation. She was instrumental in helping create
the county’s new Farmland Protection Plan, designed to evaluate the current state of agriculture in Sullivan County and outline initiatives to further promote and enhance it. Working with members of the new Agriculture Task Force, Meddaugh helps guide a planning, zoning and the prioritization of strategies in the plan for agricultural economic development throughout the county. Meddaugh is a co-founder of the Rock Hill Farmers Market and is president of the Rock Hill Business and Community Association, an organization that works to encourage new business and foster community through annual events, concerts and beautification projects through the Rock Hill Renaissance. She is also a member of the Town of Thompson Planning Board.
Melinda,
The Rock Hill Fire Department 10 P R I D E AWA R D S
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Thank you for all you do for Rock Hill.
2015
“If you want things to
The Board of Directors and staff would like to congratulate
change and you want good
things to happen, you have to
Melinda, Congratulations on all your accomplishments. We are so proud of you! 27904
A graduate of Sullivan County Community College, SUNY Purchase and the Vermont Law School, where she earned a Master’s in Environmental Law and Policy, Meddaugh and her husband Josh reside in Rock Hill. According to Meddaugh, the key to change starts with two things: involvement and optimism. “If you want things to change and you want good things to happen, you have to go for it,” she says. “It starts with a single action. That action inspires others and can ultimately have a huge impact. It’s important for young people in Sullivan County to be involved and be active in their communities. With involvement and a sense of optimism, we can and will make change happen.”
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go for it”
Congratulations Melinda on being awarded as the Sullivan Pride Young Emerging Leader
Mom, Dad, Robin & Mark
Rock Hill Business & Community Association 2015
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We are grateful you are our leader!
Cheers to all the other Pride Winners! P R I D E AWA R D S 1 1
Dr. Jamie,
PEACE. LOVE. ARTS. YOU!
...YOU’RE THE
We are very proud of you.
CONGRATULATIONS,
Barbara, Pat & Carrie
INSPIRATION...
Bethel Pride Winner: Dr. Jamie Noeth & Young Emerging Leader: Melinda Meddaugh
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PRIDE AWARD RECIPIENTS! YOU INSPIRE US ALL TO REACH HIGHER.
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cultural organization that inspires, educates, and empowers individuals through the arts and humanities.
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BethelWoodsCenter.org
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2015
Bethel
Dr. Jamie Noeth Body, Mind & Spirit Wellness Center
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Story and Photo by Matt Shortall
r. Jamie Noeth has been working in holistic chiropractic care for nearly 23 years, 19 of them based at Body, Mind & Spirit Wellness Center, 12 Plank Road in Mongaup Valley. When Jamie was young, her mother suffered from severe asthma and spent many years undergoing hospital visits and medical treatment. With few options left she turned to chiropractic. Within a matter of months, she was off all of the prescribed pills and showing signs of being completely cured. Dr. Noeth was so inspired by her mother’s transformation that she decided to dedicate herself to helping others in the same fashion. Noeth graduated from Monticello High School in 1984 and then pursued her dream of becoming a chiropractor. She graduated from Adelphi University in 1988 with a Bachelor’s of Science in biology/pre-med. She was awarded a Doctorate in 1992 from Life University in Atlanta, Georgia, well renowned for its innovative research in chiropractic care. After completing her internship in Florida, Noeth returned to Bethel to open up her own practice and to breathe in the fresh air of the Catskills once again. Body, Mind and Spirit Wellness Center offers a wide range of services, including Yoga, massage therapy, psychotherapy, homeopathy, vitamins, herbs and aromatherapy products. “It’s a great local business for Bethel,” said Supervisor Daniel Sturm. “I’ve been into Dr. Noeth’s store before for orthopedic shoes 2015
Dr. Jamie Noeth practices holistic chiropractic, incorporating nutrition, herbs, homeopathy, acupressure and massage. The aim, she said, is “to get your body back into balance and functioning at its optimum.”
that are good for your back. They actually work, and most medical insurers will cover the cost of them.” “It’s not just something I do for a job,” said Noeth. “It’s the way I live my life.” That doesn’t simply stop at holistic treatment, of course. It begins with good preventative care. That means exercising regularly and eating healthy natural foods. “We are lucky that we live so close to a lot of farms where we can get fresh, locally sourced, healthy, organic food,” said Noeth. “That’s one of the many benefits of living in Sullivan County.” When she’s not healing the bodies, minds and spirits of Sullivan County, Dr. Noeth takes a hands-on approach to community enrichment. She’s been involved with the Sullivan County Renaissance since the beginning, helping to build the gazebo in White Lake. Noeth is also an AYSO soccer coach, a Sullivan County Child Care Council board member, and is currently working on organizing a 4-H club in Bethel. Jamie has three children: daughter Katyna attends Rutgers University, son Alexander attends Franklin University Switzerland, and son Jack is a first grader. Noeth proudly describes herself as a product of Sullivan County. “A lot of people go away to school and don’t come back,” she said. “I really wanted to come back and make a difference here.” P R I D E AWA R D S 1 3
Callicoon
George & Tammy Shakelton Shakelton Auto Parts
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Story By Matt Shortall
Contributed Photo
George and Tammy Shakelton have reason to be proud of their chain of stores.
he opened a parts store in his father’s garage. He partnered with NAPA, beginning an association that has lasted to this day. Seven years later he sold that location and bought a different store in Roscoe. At that point, George and Tammy tried their luck with two locations. “We were
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eorge and Tammy Shakelton are proof that fulfilling the American dream is still possible. Married for 36 years, George and Tammy have built up a chain of auto parts stores with nearly a dozen locations in Sullivan, Orange and Pike (Pa.) counties. George and Tammy are originally from Hancock, where his grandfather and father owned a garage. George was put to work there at an early age and found he liked the parts end of the business most. In 1983,
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delivering a lot to the Jeffersonville area,” said George. “When it got to the point that 40-50 percent of our business was delivering in Jeffersonville, we decided to put a store down there.” After seven years operating both his Roscoe and Jeffersonville locations, George bought what is now Shakelton Auto & Truck Center on Pleasant Avenue in Monticello. With three locations, business began to pick up, and George and Tammy were able to buy NAPA Auto Parts stores in Liberty and Port Jervis. What made the difference for the Shakeltons was the range of advanced services they offered, especially in Jeffersonville. At that location they did much business delivering parts for farm vehicles. “If we can offer a higher level of service to the construction companies and farms around here, that’s really going to set us apart from our competitors,” said George. Outside of his auto parts franchise, George was a track and cross country coach for many years at Sullivan West. “Not only did I love doing that 100 percent,” said Shakelton, “it’s a great way to meet a lot of families and really become local.” In fact, Shakelton would often recruit his athletes as part-time summer employees in his auto parts shops. Shakelton just retired from coaching two years ago. “When we opened our fourth location it just became too much to leave at 2:30 every day,” Shakelton laughed.
George and Tammy are very proud of their three children; Jonathan, Joy and Jennifer, as well as their 11 grandchildren. “He won’t tell you himself, but he’s won a lot of awards for quality and sales,” said Tammy. Indeed, out of 3,500 NAPA Auto Parts stores nationally, Shakelton Auto Parts has won five-star ratings for 13 years in a row. There are only three other NAPA Auto Parts stores in the country with a similar record. Among their honors, Tammy and George were guests of the NAPA Racing Team at Dover International Speedway for the Nascar AAA 400. NAPA recognized George as a recipient of the Honorary Pit Crew Member program. “It’s been quite a ride, looking back all these years,” said Shakelton. “We’re proud to have served this community and raise our family here, and we’ll continue to do just that.”
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2015
www.coombebender.com Email: pcoombe@coombefinancial.com P R I D E AWA R D S 1 5
Cochecton
Peter & Norma Pierce Cochecton Oil
Story and Photo By Guy Charles Harriton
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n a time and place where you can still buy fresh farm eggs, and where all the neighbors are congenial towards each other, Cochecton Oil fits in perfectly. “When people call us, they know they’re talking to an owner rather than an employee,” Peter Pierce says proudly. As if on cue, the phone rings and Norma Pierce helps a customer with politeness mixed in with a knowledge of the oil delivery business. Cochecton Oil has been operating since 1959 and was started by Melvin and Henrietta Pierce, Peter’s parents. His father worked as a rural postal carrier part time and ran the oil business part time. When the advent of propane delivery, the company was transformed into a fulltime operation. “We incorporated and took over in 1993,” explained Peter. Norma runs the office and Peter wears many hats, from “dispatching to deliveries and everything else.” The company’s two employees fit in with the philosophy of Cochecton Oil. Between them, James Mosher and Todd Jay have 48 years experience with the local, but highly touted company. The customers know who they are dealing with, and feel comfortable enough to let them in if a stove needs repairs, said Peter. “We have a four-wheel drive vehicle. When some area oil companies can’t make 16 P R I D E AWA R D S
Peter and Norma Pierce took over Cochecton Oil from his parents Melvin and Henrietta. It was started in 1959.
it up a snowy driveway, they’re directed to call Cochecton Oil. So that’s a little niche we have for ourselves,” Peter said. Both Peter and Norma are experts in the field. However, even they cannot predict the market which Peter describes as “volatile.” “It used to be you knew the prices would go down in the summer and up in the winter. In the last 10 years that phenomena has fallen by the wayside,” he said. “The prices now are low compared to last winter. Any international event can escalate the prices. The prices are not consistent.” He went on to say that what happens in the Middle East impacts prices on the global market. When the prices get very high, it becomes economically feasible for the United States to get oil out of the ground. “When the price of a barrel of oil hits $100, the companies will make money; below the threshold of $50 a barrel, the companies break even,” Peter said. Norma is particularly proud of her two sons – Michael is in the Army, based at Fort Campbell, Kentucky with his wife Regina. Patrick attends SUNY Sullivan and plays on the Generals’ baseball team. 2015
Congratulations to all the
Pride Award Winners & Honorees, Sullivan County’s Finest!
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Congratulations Henry and Eric! Thank you for your dedication towards helping your family, friends, Kohler Lumber and our surrounding communities! Love you guys!
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Mom and Dad, Liz, Jared, Melissa, Kevin and Lila, Aimee and Ethan, Cody and Jordan, Bea, Gary and the Kids, Nicole, Andy and Aurora, Anna, Kristen and Amanda, Pat, Ciara, Vincent and Scarlett.
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The Kubenik Family Rte. 52, Jeffersonville, NY 12748
P.O. Box 252, Loch Sheldrake, NY 12759 (845) 434-7839 • Fax: (845) 434-1199
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Delaware
Henry & Eric Kubenik Kohler Lumber Story and Photo by Frank Rizzo
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wo families only have operated the lumberyard on Route 52 which has been an integral part of Kohlertown since 1907: the Kohlers, who founded Kohler Lumber, and the Kubeniks, who have been running the lumber, hardware and building supply company since 1975. Henry and Eric Kubenik will represent Delaware at the Pride of Sullivan County Awards on May 3. They will also represent their family – after all, Kohler Lumber is the epitome of a family business. Family patriarch Henry occasionally shows up for work, as does his wife of 67 years, Anna, who kept the books until recently. Sons Henry and Eric manage the business and get help from Bea, the oldest daughter, who designs kitchens, and youngest daughter Anna, a CPA, who does the accounting. Younger Henry’s son Jared and Patrick Hammett, a close family friend, are also part of the firm. It’s no secret as to how Kohler Lumber and other such firms has survived while many mid-sized chains and “mom and pop” hardware stores have been decimated by the rise of a certain box store chain. “Because of our service and the knowledge that comes from 41 years in the business,” said Henry. The firm caters to a diverse clientele, from experienced contractors to week2015
Brothers Henry “Hank” and Eric “Kubbie” are the second generation of Kubeniks to operate Kohler Lumber. The business was founded by William Kohler in 1907 and then run by Percy Kohler until he sold it to Henry Sr. and Anna Kubenik in 1975.
end residents working on “do it yourself” projects. Since September 11, noted Henry, “we’ve seen a lot of new people” as the county became a second-home magnet. The series of floods and hurricanes during the past decade have also introduced new customers to the business. The rough winter that just ended has created demand for roofing and decking materials. Kohler Lumber continually surprises those who venture in. “They don’t realize how much we have,” said Henry. “We have a bit of everything,” said Eric. The Kubeniks contribute much to their community and especially St. George’s Church in Jeffersonville. Avid golfers all, they will play most Sundays at the Villa Roma course nearby before gathering at Henry Sr. and Anna’s house for dinner. P R I D E AWA R D S 1 9
Fallsburg
Zane Morganstein Associated Mutual Insurance
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By Allison Ruef y the time this journal is published, Zane Morganstein, president and CEO of Associated Mutual Insurance company, will have cleaned out his desk and turned over the reins to incoming President and CEO Robert Wong. “While I am honored to be nominated, it’s rather misguided,” he explained. “As a cooperative, our business isn’t about a single person – it is about the policyholders, the staff and Board of Directors. They are directly responsible for the success of the company.” Although modest in discussing his personal accomplishments and contributions to his community, Morganstein is an unabashed champion of the company he has been a part of for the past 42 years. “Associated Mutual, as a cooperative, has served Sullivan County for 102 years, so by its very essence, it isn’t about an individual. It was here before me and will be here after me. The organization is better than a single person – by our very nature we are about community – neighbors helping neighbors, working together to solve a
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problem.” This philosophy is ingrained deep in the roots of the company, which was formed by Jewish immigrant farmers who had difficulty obtaining insurance and accessing banking services. What began with insuring farms, bungalow colonies, hotels and other small businesses has grown and expanded as times and needs change. Today, the company has stayed true to its mission and works with small business owners, many of whom are 21st century immigrants. Businesses served by Associated Mutual include restaurants, bakeries, independent retailers, distilleries, breweries, boutique/value-added farm products and of course, farms and agribusinesses. “We do good work, provide good jobs and our bottom line is the greater good. Our customers, staff and our Board of Directors truly deserve this recognition. Without them, we wouldn’t exist, so we gratefully accept this honor on their behalf.” “Zane is a good, community-minded guy, and this honor is more than justified,” said Town of Fallsburg Supervisor Steve Vegliante. “The company has been helping people for a long time, and with Zane’s [pending] retirement, it was just the right time.”
2015
Forestburgh
Justin Evans The Hartwood Club
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By Charles Guy Harriton
oy, if the walls at the Hartwood Club clubhouse in Forestburgh could talk. Question anyone in this bucolic hamlet about this private hunting and fishing club and the stories abound – “the one that got away,” or the slight exaggeration about the size of the trout caught in the lakes. Perhaps Justin Evans, recipient of the Pride of Forestburgh Award, knows more about and takes great pride in this venerable club founded in 1893. But this isn’t just any hunting club. Like everything in Forestburgh it’s classy, but in a decidedly woodsy way. Consider its dimensions: 7,000 acres with three lakes for swimming and fishing, deer and bird hunting. And, oh yes, the magnificent clubhouse set back amongst coniferous trees that blends in harmoniously with the homes that are on park grounds and you have a way of life understood perhaps only by Forestburgh residents. It’s been said, some men fish there whole lives without realizing it’s not fish their after. It has always been about the camaraderie, and bonding that lasts a lifetime. However, the Hartwood Club takes it one step further, noted Evans: “In addition to deer and bird hunting at the club, which has three lakes, and nature observations, the members logged in over 3,000 hours of volunteer forest management work on their woodlot last year.” Again, what sets the Hartwood Club apart is activities such as hosting wood walks for other forest landowners to view forest management projects. 2015
Matt Shortall photo
One of the three lakes at the Hartwood Club, a private hunting and fishing preserve, has been awarded for the stewardship of its acreage.
Perhaps what Evans is most proud of has nothing to do with fishing or hunting, but that last year the club was named the New York State Outstanding Tree Farmer of the Year. “We regenerate hardwoods, which is so hard to do around here because the deer eat the saplings,” said Evans. “Also, we let the DEC do some training on our grounds.” According to Forestburgh Supervisor Bill Sipos, Evans was a shoe-in as the town’s Pride pick because of the hard work as the club’s forester. The Hartwood Club, he said, was noted for its efforts to enhance and sustain their forest and for spreading the practice of sustainable forestry. Paul Kowalczykop, who is a tree farm inspector and the Hartwood Club consulting forester, thanked the club for developing a land ethic for both timber and wildlife resources. The 50 families who make up the club, Evans noted, enjoy outdoor living which is compatible with both wildlife and timber management. P R I D E AWA R D S 2 1
Fremont
Fred Sherman & Debbie Kazmark Long Eddy Hotel & Saloon
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Story and Photo By Matt Shortall sk around Fremont about the Long Eddy Hotel and Saloon and you’ll hear the same resounding opinion – they’ve got the best food and drinks within 50 miles. Fred Sherman and Debbie Kazmark have run the Long Eddy Hotel as partners for the past 15 years. “I’ve known Fred and Debbie for a very long time” said Fremont Supervisor George Conklin. “Fred’s quite the chef, and he’s very active in the community as a Fremont Fire Commissioner.” The building that houses the Long Eddy Hotel was built around 1850 and was originally used as a blacksmith’s shop. Then Steve and Carrie Porter bought the building and converted it into a hotel and saloon. Back then, the locals knew the place as “The Pig’s Foot,”
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Fred Sherman and Debbie Kazmark have kept the tradition of running a hotel/saloon in a building that dates back to 1850.
because the Porters served pickled pigs’ feet at the bar for free. As the hotel’s success grew, more renovations were made and it became attached to the surrounding buildings. Following in the footsteps of that success, Fred and Debbie have made some renovations of their own, while maintaining the building’s classic saloon atmosphere. They’ve added additional dining space, as well as a new game room. “They’ve done great work, especially with the game room,” said Conklin. “It’s a great place for the kids around here to hang out.” Fred and Debbie attribute their success to hard work and the loyalty of their regular customers. “We have great neighbors and townsfolk here,” said Debbie. “The same people come in every week for something to eat or just to catch up.” “There’s not a whole lot of other businesses around here,” said Fred, “so if you treat people to a good time once, they’ll probably come back.” 2015
Contributed Photo Tannis Kowalchuk directing the NACL’s Weather Project last summer.
Highland
Tannis Kowalchuk North American Cultural Lab By Kaitlin Carney
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he North American Cultural Laboratory (NACL) brought the Weather Project to over 700 residents and friends of the Town of Highland through a culminating event at the Yulan Ballfield last summer. The community play featured actors, singers, dancers and stilt walkers in a performance highlighting the necessity of honoring the earth and recognizing the many threats to its health and sustainability. The project was truly a community event, explained Tannis Kowalchuk, co-founder and artistic director for NACL. “Supervisor (Andy) Boyar was such a big part of the Weather Project. And the Yulan Fire Department was so open to working with us. It was a big deal for the community to accommodate us, from electric at the ballfield, traffic control, space, rehearsals. It was a great community experience.” This year Kowalchuk and NACL will be honored as the Pride of Sullivan County for the Town of Highland. “We were really, truly honored. We heard that we were nominated…it was a really nice surprise and a great honor,” Tannis explained. The project helped NACL bring theatre to the community, but also brought many in
the community to their theatre, based in Highland Lake. NACL, now celebrating its 15th anniversary, started as a summer program. A native of Canada and graduate of the University of Winnipeg theatre department, Tannis has created and performed in over a dozen NACL productions, including “Struck.” The latter was a multi-media presentation, staged in NYC and Cleveland, based on a stroke she suffered in 2011. Kowalchuk co-founded NACL with Brad Krumholz and works with Brett Keyser as production manager and “Zoot” from Woodstock Stage and Screen as technical director. They are developing another community production for the upcoming summer, dealing with the idea of courage and social justice. She and husband Greg Swarz own Willow Wisp Organic Farm in Abrahamsville, Pa., and are the parents of Simon, 6.
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Liberty
Donald & Jeanne Tulp Lazy Pond Bed & Breakfast
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Story and Photo By Allison Ruef onald and Jeanne Tulp hadn’t planned on becoming proprietors of a bed and breakfast, but what began as “a few projects” soon became a way of life. The owners of the Lazy Pond Bed and Breakfast in Liberty, the Tulps opened for business in 2000 and haven’t looked back. There wasn’t always a pond at Lazy Pond. According to Jeanne, “It was all Don’s idea. We purchased the adjacent parcel and with family cleared it and dug the pond. It was lovely to relax in the paddle boat or gazebo. But soon we felt a bit lazy, so the next project began. Basically it’s a hobby that got out of hand!” Renovating the house on the same parcel came next, and Lazy Pond was born. Donald (who is not at all lazy) continued to build – adding rooms, purchasing and renovating the house that is now the main house (the West Wing), building a log cabin and cottage for a A Beautiful Country Setting in the Heart of the Catskill Mountains
Innkeepers Jeanne & Don Tulp
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79 Old Loomis Rd • Liberty, NY 845.988.7061 www.lazypond.com
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Jeanne and Donald Tulp have kept busy and been anything but lazy at their Liberty bed and breakfast.
total of 28 rooms. “We try to do something each year,” says Jeanne. “We enhance the rooms, add something new. We have a lot of repeat customers, so we try and keep things fresh.” Active in their community, the Tulps are members of the Chamber of Commerce, the Sullivan County Visitors Association, the Greater Liberty Chamber of Commerce and are supporters of Bethel Woods. “There is something magical about the mountains. They keep our guests coming back,” says Jeanne. “Sullivan County is beautiful. We are honored to be chosen for this award because we are truly proud to live here.” Married for 21 years, The Tulps are delegating more tasks to their son Matt, who is the bed and breakfast’s general manager. “Matt has been great. This gives us more time to do what we originally intended to do – be lazy!” says Jeanne. 2015
Christine Smetaniuk Color Tek Designs
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By Kaitlin Carney hristine Smetaniuk was introduced to Lumberland as a vacationer, and she and her husband Igor relocated to Glen Spey full time in 1987. There they raised daughter Alana, now a student at Syracuse University. Since then, they have been active and involved in the Ukrainian enclave of Glen Spey and the Town of Lumberland as a whole in varied capacities. Christine owns and operates Color Tek Designs in Glen Spey. She is creative director and designer, with a client base spanning the tri-state area. “Color Tek Designs is a creative art, design and screen printing studio I founded. I design screen prints, brochures, programs, posters, event flyers and other design-related materials,” Smetaniuk explained. She also often volunteers her talent as an honorary member and publicist of the Town of Lumberland Cultural Series, and annually decorates the Town Hall for the Christmas and winter holidays. During the summer, she is the art counselor for the Town of Lumberland Youth Program, a position she looks forward to every year. Christine is also secretary of the Town’s Zoning Board of Appeals. “I love living in Lumberland and I’m very proud of our town. Some people say that I wear many hats in the community and that’s because I try to give back when I can. Whether it is decorating or promoting an event or running the Children’s Christmas tree decorating or a Christmas Concert 2015
Contributed Photo Christine Smetaniuk is a small business owner with a deep commitment to her community.
among others… I’m there,” she said. “It is hard work, it takes time, but my efforts are always appreciated and that is rewarding to me in the end!” As a woman of Ukrainian heritage, Christine has deep ties to the large community in Glen Spey. She is a member of the Ukrainian Women’s League of America Branch No. 62 , a group that coordinates fundraisers and help people in need. “Our efforts have been focused in Europe with the war that has been going on for a year after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. There are thousands of displaced men, women, and children who have lost everything… many of us have family there. It is a very sad and tragic situation,” she said. Christine’s community involvement, both professional and volunteer, led to her nomination and honor as the Pride of Sullivan County for the Town of Lumberland. “I was surprised by the honor. I never even thought of it as a possibility! I am honored and humbled….it is gratifying to think that people appreciate what you do,” she said.
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Mamakating
Paul Deninno BashaKill Vinyards
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Story and Photo By Dan Hust
Congratulations! Paul Deninno hoists a glass of Sullivan County grown and bottled wine.
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aul Deninno wasn’t satisfied with being the first full-fledged commercial vineyard in Sullivan County. No, the Wurtsboro entrepreneur decided it was about time BashaKill
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Congratulations on your achievements!
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trance. Vineyards expanded “We just got our farm Paul couldn’t be beyond wine’s delihappier about wincate flavor into beer’s brewing license. We’re ning the Pride of Sullifull-bodied taste. van County Award in So once again, he’s the first winery in the his home Town of ahead of what’s beMamakating. come a crowded pack. Hudson Valley to hold “I wish my grandfa“We just got our ther were alive to see farm brewing both licenses” it,” he mused, speaklicense,” Paul affirmed ing of longtime town earlier this spring. councilman Phil Sicuro. “We’re the first winery in the Hudson He’s happy to carry on his grandfaValley to hold both licenses.” ther’s local legacy. Not that he’s giving up the wine“It’s a really nice community,” Paul making that’s brought fame, accolades remarked. “The people are really and visitors to the Bashakill Valley for friendly!” more than five years. Thanks, surely in some degree, to “I just planted another acre of a red the fine spirits to be found within hybrid from Cornell [University] called BashaKill Vineyards ... ‘Arrindel’,” he said, bringing the total acreage in production to just over four. Nearly 8,000 pounds of grapes are harvested annually by Paul and crew, who then press them and age the juice in barrels stored in a wine cave built into the slope of the Shawangunk Ridge. BashaKill Vineyards’ red and white wines can be found for sale in various restaurants and stores throughout the region, but a visit to the winery itself is a treat. “It’s definitely a beautiful spot,” said Paul. “I love working outside, and I love the area.” He shares that love with people from around the world, who drive and bike down South Road to visit the vineyards, viewable from the parking lot, the winery’s back patio, and a deck perched atop the wine cave’s en-
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Neversink
Ben Knight Blooming Green Lawn & Landscape Services
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Story and Photo By Allison Ruef
ou would think Ben Knight’s thriving landscape and firewood business, Blooming Green Lawn and Landscape Service, would be enough to fill his days, but according to Knight, “I like to keep busy.” Keeping busy includes Ben Knight, center, with sons Brady, 6 (left) and Briar, 11 (right).
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Ben Knight
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recently planting 12 acres of Christmas trees, raising honey bees and chickens and making maple syrup. “Those are just hobbies, really,” he explains, modestly. Knight began his business shortly after college, part time at first, while working at the prison-run farm at Eastern Correctional Facility and at Tri-Valley Central School District. He then decided to make Blooming Green his full time job, and twenty years later, he has no regrets. “I’m incredibly lucky to have the career, clients and support that I do. Most of my work is in the Town of Neversink, and working locally, in my community, is amazing. I look at each property I take care of as a work of art, and I’m proud to create something beautiful.” The 1992 Tri-Valley CS graduate
attended Sullivan County Community College, majoring in Environmental Studies. It was there that he met his wife of 15 years, Elena, kindergarten teacher at Liberty Elementary School. Together they have two sons, Briar, 11 and Brady, 6. In addition to his business and hobbies, Knight enjoys fishing and playing soccer with his boys. He is also an active member in Neversink Renaissance and is on the Board of the Neversink Agricultural Society, the force behind the annual Little Worlds Fair, now in it’s 136th year. Working outside can have its downside, but you’d never hear about it from Ben. “I love it,” he explains. “It keeps me healthy. I am grateful to be able to live, work and be active in my home town. It’s truly an honor to have been chosen to receive this award.”
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Contributed Sims and Kirsten Foster have ambitious plans for The Arnold, an inn, tavern and bar atop Shandelee Mountain.
Rockland
Sims & Kirsten Foster The Arnold House
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By Dan Hust
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839 Shandelee Road, Livingston Manor (845) 439-5070 thearnoldhouse.com 30 P R I D E AWA R D S
Named after Sims’ grandfather, The Arnold remains faithful to the good-times gathering spot its predecessor Lanza’s perfected, but it also has infused a fresh sense of modernity to an unapologeti-
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ess than a year in, The Arnold House sits atop Shandelee Mountain as one of Livingston Manor’s top attractions. “We’ve been tremendously excited by what we’ve seen,” says Kirsten Harlow, who with husband Sims Foster operates the inn, tavern and spa. “We’re very encouraged,” adds Sims, whose family has made fine hospitality a tradition in the Town of Rockland.
Washers Refrigerators Cooking Ranges Freezers Lawn Mowers Mattresses Window Air Conditioners Dryers Dishwashers Microwaves Vacuums Tractors Tools Fitness Equipment Lawn & Garden
2015
cally rustic locale. That merging of city and country has tapped into a tourist market eager to experience the Catskills all year long. “There are people we’ve found who are attracted because of the winter, not in spite of it,” marvels Sims. “There really is the potential for four-season business in northern Sullivan County.” Spring promises a return to outdoor dining, to the beginnings of a garden that will supply the tavern with outstanding menu choices, to memorable activities for guests – from picking ramps (a delicious wild onion) to partaking in the birth of lambs at a nearby farm. Summer will bring with it concerts in an airy barn next to the inn, showcasing the talents of local groups. And fall, in addition to a bountiful garden harvest, will witness several
weddings amidst the greenery of The Arnold’s expansive back field. The inn itself has been expanded with a three-bedroom suite, conveniently located above the spa and designed to accommodate the growing number of people falling in love with the area. “We’ve probably helped sell a handful of houses,” says Kirsten. The couple is proud to play a role in a hospitality trend both new and longestablished, thanks in part to people like Sims’ late father Barry, who was a primary welcoming force in Livingston Manor. “It feels good to keep that going,” Sims nods. “He’d be proud of you,” Kirsten tells him. As is an entire county ...
Congratulations Kirsten & Sims!
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The staff of the Sullivan County Democrat would like to Congratulate all the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce Pride Award Winners on a fantastic job. Your Commitment to our Communities makes Sullivan County a great place to live. From all your friends at the
With Offices in Callicoon & Monticello 32 P R I D E AWA R D S
845-887-5200
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2015
Congratulations to all the Pride Award Winners!
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Tusten
Paul Nanni & Marla Puccetti The Heron Restaurant
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By Dan Hust
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ou fall deeply in love with a restaurant for more than its food, delicious as it is. You become a regular, a true aficionado, when you feel welcomed – even embraced – time after time, when every visit is cause for celebration, reconnection, and warm gestures of friendship. The Heron has made its mark on Narrowsburg and the surrounding Town of Tusten with just such an approach, thanks to owners Marla Puccetti and Paul Nanni. Three years after joining the Main Street
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Contributed Photo
Marla Puccetti and Paul Nanni have made The Heron a must-visit destination in the riverside hamlet of Narrowsburg.
renaissance, The Heron has become a cherished meeting spot, not simply for the locally-sourced food amidst the cozily relaxed interior but for the friendliness and warmth radiated by Marla, Paul & their employees. “We value the fact that we live and work in the same town,” says Paul. “It’s not just about us,” adds Marla. “It’s about the county.” Indeed, they want to do more than invite people to visit The Heron. They encourage one and all to return and visit the other Main Street businesses, the other downtowns, the other attractions, even the other restaurants throughout Sullivan County. “There is a lot to do, and people need to be aware of that,” says Marla. “There is always something going on.” And they’re leading the way, as The Heron is preparing to open a brand new lounge later this year. Close to 750 square feet of what was The Heron’s basement is being renovated into a flexible space for performances, conversations, drinks and small-plate meals. With a deck overlooking the Delaware River, it will be the perfect spot to wait for an upstairs table for dinner, or just to come and listen to local musicians, poets and filmmakers. 2015
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