Regional Report - Spring 2009

Page 1

REGIONAL SPRING 2009

Courtesy Hudson Valley Film Commision

A QUARTERLY BUSINESS NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Splinterheads director Brent Sersen filming on location in High Falls.

THE REEL HUDSON VALLEY FILMMAKING AS ECONOMIC ENGINE

By Kelley Granger

ccording to the New York State Governor’s Office for Motion Picture and Television Development, our state provides the backdrop to more than 250 feature films every year. When these films are combined with other projects, ranging from independent films and television productions to commercials, billions of dollars are annually injected into state and local economies. If you ask one of the many local industry veterans, they’ll tell you that the New Paltz region is well positioned to accommodate the production process and that there are a number of ways local businesses can reap financial benefits by becoming active in the film community.

A

Continued on p. 12

IN THIS ISSUE

10

All the Right Marketing Moves Professional Development Series Workshop on May 29

20

Mouse in the House

22

The Legacy of Woodstock

24

Dog and Pony Show

World-Renowned Leadership Program at Mohonk in June

Q&A with Wade Lawrence of the Bethel Woods Museum

Pet-Related Business Profiles

124 MAIN ST. SUITE 8 NEW PALTZ NY 12561 845 255 0243 FAX 845 255 5189 EMAIL INFO@NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG


Running a business is hard work. Why not get a checking account that makes it a little easier…

Now you can deposit your checks online! Introducing DepositNow

®

from Empire State Bank, a convenient, easy, secure and fast way to make deposits from your desktop or laptop PC

For more information stop by your local branch

Business Checking Plus was designed for the Business Owner in mind + No minimum balance required + No monthly transaction fee + Free Online Banking and Bill Pay + Free Business Debit Card + Merchant Card processing at preferred rates + Business / Commercial Loans and Lines of Credit + Cash Management / Sweep Accounts …and much more DepositNow is a registered trademark of BServ.Inc. Eligibility for DepositNow® is subject to Bank approval. Funds may not be available for immediate withdrawal. *Please refer to our Funds Availability Policy and your Remote Deposit Agreement for additional information.

NEW PALTZ 275 Main Street 845.256.0003 NEWBURGH 68 North Plank Road 845.561.0003 STATEN ISLAND 1361 North Railroad Avenue 718.351.0590

www.esbna.com MEMBER FDIC


LETTER FROM JOYCE MINARD Michael Gold / The Corporate Image

elcome to the first issue of our new quarterly business-tobusiness magazine, Regional Report. With the launch of this new publication, we are getting back to fundamentals—our mission to advance the business, industrial, agricultural, and civic interests of the Hudson Valley region and to promote integrity and good faith among all segments of the community. Regional Report is an instrument of that mission, and helps us achieve it by providing our members with timely and compelling content; inspiring business profiles; constructive information about membership benefits; a Who’s Who of new and renewing members; and, of course, our popular Member Updates, keeping you informed of what’s new with your Chamber peers. While the launch of Regional Report may provide some novelty, the motive for the transition is by no means novel. The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce has dedicated itself to the success of its membership and the Hudson Valley region for more than 100 years. In that time, we have always done what is necessary to grow with the times—accommodate the expansion of our region and diversification of our membership, take advantage of technology that has become steadily more accessible, and adapt to swiftly changing business climates. Regional Report is a different kind of publication, something altogether new, envisioned to reflect our understanding of the current era of business and the high level of service you have come to expect from your Chamber. For detailed information on upcoming Chamber events we have already begun to rely more heavily upon our established and vastly more cost-effective electronic tools: weekly Event Reminder e-mails, frequent Twitter notifications, and Facebook event postings. Here you will find globally useful material and indepth coverage of specific issues affecting the Hudson Valley business community, made possible by our partnership with Luminary Publishing. Our partnership is a true one, defined by mutual cooperation and responsibility; this magazine combines the Chamber’s editorial initiatives and commitment to your success and the success of the Hudson Valley region with Luminary’s commitment to editorial excellence. Luminary has provided us with a vessel for our voice. But perhaps it is easiest to let the thing speak for itself. We are proud to unveil this inaugural issue of Regional Report, to open a new age of communication for your Chamber. To enter with us, you need only turn the page.

W

Best,

JUNE 13-14 40TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION with a New Paltz Chamber ribbon cutting by Congressman Maurice Hinchey. Please e-mail chef/proprietor John Novi at jnovi@hvc.rr.com to receive full information about that weekend and an invitation.

NATIONAL REGISTERED PROPERTIES

3 Restaurants

Under One Roof

DEPUY CANAL HOUSE FINE DINING

ECLECTIC BISTRO AT CHEFS ON FIRE.

AUTHENTIC FARE FROM JAPANESE CHEF MAKIO IDESAKO. Route 213, High Falls 845-687-7777 for hours

www.depuycanalhouse.com Joyce M. Minard REGIONAL REPORT SPRING 2009

3


UPCOMING EVENTS FRIDAY, MAY 1

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20

Spring Business Card Exchange

Business Luncheon

Antiques Barn at Water Street Market, New Paltz

Mohonk Mountain House, featuring Wade Lawrence, Director, Museum at Bethel Woods: The Story of the Sixties and Woodstock

Time: 7:30–9:00 a.m. Place: Antiques Barn at Water Street Market, 10 Main St., New Paltz Cost: Complimentary for Chamber members, $5 for non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org

MONDAY, MAY 4 New Member Breakfast Terrace Restaurant, SUNY New Paltz Campus Sponsor: Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation Time: 7:30–9:00 am Place: Terrace Restaurant, SUNY New Paltz campus, New Paltz Cost: Complimentary Invitation-only, reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org.

Special Joint After-Hours Mixer with Pine Bush Area Chamber of Commerce Catholic War Veterans Hall, Pine Bush Time: 6:00–7:30 p.m. Place: Catholic War Veterans Hall, 161 Center St., Pine Bush Cost: Complimentary Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org

TUESDAY, MAY 12 After-Hours Mixer and Pot-O-Gold Raffle Drawing Joe’s East-West, New Paltz Do you have the $10,000 ticket? Find out at our May After-Hours Mixer! Enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres and add to your business network in this iconic New Paltz venue. Pot-O-Gold tickets may be purchased from any NPRCoC board member, and will be for sale in the first hour of the mixer. Time: 5:30–7:30 p.m. Place: Joe’s East-West, 254 Main Street, New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to Chamber members; $5 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 to RSVP or for more information about the Pot-O-Gold raffle.

Museum director Wade Lawrence explores the unique experience of the Woodstock festival, its significance as a culminating event of a decade of radical cultural transformation, and the legacy of the Sixties today as preserved in the films, interactive productions, photographs, artifacts, video testimonies, and oral histories that make up the Museum at Bethel Woods’ permanent collection. Sponsor: Brinckerhoff and Neuville Insurance Group, Inc. Time: 12:00 noon–1:30 p.m. Place: Mohonk Mountain House, 1000 Mountain Rest Rd., New Paltz Cost: Complimentary for NPRCoC Corporate Partners; $18 for members; $25 for non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org

FRIDAY, MAY 29 Professional Development Series, Program 2—“Stop Selling and Start Communicating” SUNY New Paltz School of Business, van den Berg Hall Room 110, New Paltz Panelists Kathleen Packard, president and creative director of KathodeRay Media, Inc.; Frank J. De Raffele Jr., CEO of the ProActive Leadership Center; and Marcus Guiliano, entrepreneur and chef-owner of Aroma Thyme Bistro, will discuss topics designed to help you focus your market, sales, and customer interactions to drive up profits and speed up your sales process. Chris Drouin, NPRCoC 2nd Vice Chair and president of Beyond Wealth Management, will serve as moderator and facilitate this panel discussion. Sponsor: Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz Time: 9:00 a.m–11:00 a.m. Place: SUNY New Paltz School of Business, van den Berg Hall room 110, New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to NPRCoC members; $15 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org

THURSDAY, JUNE 11 After-Hours Mixer Frank Guido’s Little Italy, Kingston Our late spring mixer in the heart of historic Kingston. Make connections and enjoy the bounti-

ful hospitality of Frank Guido’s Little Italy, a traditional Neapolitan restaurant inspired by the dishes enjoyed by family and friends for generations. Time: 5:30–7:30 p.m. Place: Frank Guido’s Little Italy, 14 Thomas St., Kingston Cost: Complimentary to NPRCoC members; $5 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org

TUESDAY, JUNE 16 Disney Institute “Keys to Excellence” Program Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz Disney Institute is bringing the “Disney Keys to Excellence” program to the Hudson Valley. This event will give area professionals an opportunity to experience the business behind the Disney magic–proven strategies and best practices that are easily adaptable to their organizations. See pg. 20 for more details. Sponsor: Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz Time: Registration begins at 7:30 a.m.; program runs from 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Place: Mohonk Mountain House, 1000 Mountain Rest Rd., New Paltz Cost: $359 per person for Chamber members, $399 per person for non-members. Group rates available. Registration fee includes all course materials and breaks, continental breakfast and gourmet lunch at Mohonk Mountain House. Reservations required. Call 245-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24 Business Luncheon 36 Main Restaurant and Wine Bar, featuring Dr. Ronald J. Tatelbaum Senior Vice President of Medical Affairs, Health Quest Health Quest Senior Vice President of Medial Affairs Dr. Ronald J. Tatelbaum will discuss current health issues. This luncheon will also feature 2009 Foundation Scholarship awards presentation. Sponsor: MVP Time: 12:00 noon–1:30 p.m. Place: 36 Main Restaurant and Wine Bar, 36 Main St., New Paltz Cost: Complimentary for NPRCoC Corporate Partners; $18 for members; $25 for non-members Reservations required. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org

4 WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


CONTENTS

1

Economic Engine: The Reel Hudson Valley

10

In the Know: All the Right Marketing Moves

20

The “Disney Keys to Excellence”

Many filmmakers—including Steven Spielberg and Mary Stuart Masterson—have chosen the greater New Paltz region to shoot their movies. Find out how your business can tap into filmmaking as a revenue source.

Need More Space?

“Stop Selling & Start Communicating,”part of the Foundation’s ongoing professional development series, will be held at the SUNY New Paltz School of Business on May 29.

“Experience the Business Behind the Magic.” The Disney Institute showcases the best business practices and philosophies used at Disney Destinations worldwide.

21

Legislation & News Affecting Your Business

22

Event Spotlight: Wade Lawrence

24

Member Profiles: The Pet Industry

Utility rate hikes, proposed changes to direct mail requirements, state tourism marketing budget cuts, new COBRA conditions, the Legislature says no to wine in supermarkets.

For all storage needs

SUPER LOW RATES 24/7 ACCESS Month to Month Rentals

845-883-7057 1718 Rt. 44-55, Modena, NY 12548

Regional Report talks with the director of the Bethel Woods Museum about the legacy of Woodstock. Lawrence will be the featured speaker at the Chamber Business Luncheon at Mohonk Mountain House on May 20.

Regional Report checks in with Lucky C Stables, New Paltz Animal Hospital, Pussyfoot Lodge, and Hudson Valley Boundaries about the business of animals.

My Choice. My Credit Union. 7 Recent Chamber Events 8 New Members 15 Member Updates 25 Member Renewals 28 Membership Matters

845.463.3011 | hvfcu.org Beacon | Fishkill | Hopewell Junction | Hyde Park | Kingston Middletown | Newburgh | Pleasant Valley | Poughkeepsie Wappingers Falls

REGIONAL REPORT SPRING 2009

5


NPRCoC BOARD AND STAFF Board Officers Chair Robert Glemming TotelNet Logistics

The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce is a distinguished member of: American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE)

1st Vice Chair Ernie

Chamber Alliance of New York State (CANYS)

VanDeMark Central Hudson

The Business Council of New York State, Inc. (BCNYS)

Gas & Electric Corp. 2nd Vice Chair Chris Drouin

Mid-Hudson Pattern for Progress

Beyond Wealth Management

Southern Ulster Alliance

Treasurer Sue VanVoorhis M&T Bank

Business Marketing Association—Hudson Valley Chapter

Financial Advisor Jerry Luke Fox Hill B&B

New York’s Tech Valley Chamber Coalition

Legal Counsel Paul O’Neill Attorney at Law

Hudson Valley Regional Coalition (One Valley— One Voice)

Board of Directors Frank Curcio Clear Channel Radio of the Hudson Valley Helen Gutfreund LMT Bodymind Massage Therapy Jerry Kerr Stop & Shop Supermarket Giselle Malone John J. Lease Realtors Dr. David Ness Certified Chiropractic Sports Practitioner Diane Reeder The Queens Galley Craig Shankles PDQ Printing and Graphics Aislinn Smith Edible Arrangements

Who We Are The New Paltz Regional Chamber, organized in 1900, is an active and trusted voice in the regional business and residential community that forges strong relationships between businesses and residents and promotes growth, prosperity, a sense of local pride, and a high quality of life in the Hudson Valley region.

Susan Van De Bogart St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital

The newly formed Regional Chamber of Commerce

Helise Winters SUNY New Paltz (CRREO)

Foundation at New Paltz aids and augments the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce’s current slate of

Emeritus Members

successful educational programs. The Foundation envisions a

Robert Leduc Mohonk Mountain House

comprehensive program of educational activities and schol-

Rick Lewis Riverside Bank

arships, all geared toward educating and supporting

Margaret McDowell Bermac Home Aides, Inc.

the community.

Ofc. Scott Schaffrick New Paltz Police Department

Chamber Staff Joyce Minard President

Regional Report is published quarterly by the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with Luminary Publishing.

Christine Crawfis Director of Marketing & Communications Cathy Hyland Membership Director

@2009 New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Lucy Paradies Assistant Director of Finance & Membership

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part

Janet Nurre Communications & Programs Administrator

without the written permission of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce and Luminary Publishing is

Information in this publication was carefully compiled to ensure maximum accuracy.

strictly prohibited.

However, the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce cannot guarantee the correctness of all information provided herein. Readers noting inaccurate information should contact the Chamber with corrections and updates.

6 WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


RECENT CHAMBER EVENTS 1

2

3

4

1 Radio personality Joe Daily welcomes members to his studio at the Winter Business Card Exchange hosted by Clear Channel Radio of the Hudson Valley. 2 Noel Crotone (left) and Patrick Paul (right) of the Anderson Center for Autism are toasted by NPRCoC president Joyce Minard (center) at the NPRCoC November After-Hours Mixer, held at Mariner’s on the Hudson, Highland. 3 Rich Librizzi with Shari Kanner of Exit Realty and Michael Gold of The Corporate Image at the March After-Hours Mixer, held at Van Buren Gallery, New Paltz. 4 Ulster County and New Paltz officials celebrate as New Paltz Town Supervisor Toni Hokanson cuts the ribbon to formally open the New Paltz Loop Bus. REGIONAL REPORT SPRING 2009

7


WELCOME NEW MEMBERS 1-2-Tree 1007 Old Post Road New Paltz, NY 12561 845-416-3618 Contact: Neil Struber Category: Firewood

Alpine Builders 57 Jansen Road New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 797-0142 Contact: Marty Irwin E-mail: marty@alpinebuilders.biz Website: www.alpinebuilders.biz Category: Construction Consulting Services

Always There 107 Greenkill Ave. PO Box 1850 Kingston, NY 12401 (845) 339-6683 / fax (845) 339-7863 Contact: Deborah L. Glassey E-mail: dglassey@alwaystherehomecare.org Website: www.alwaystherehomecare.org Category: Home Care Agency

Angus MacDonald 27D Colonial Drive New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 527-9792 Contact: Angus MacDonald E-mail: angus@pitgeeks.com Category: Computer Consultants

Chez Grandmere 24 Tinker St. Woodstock, NY 12498 (845) 679-8140 Contact: Misty Lucas Category: Gift Shops

Eija Lindsey Studio 103 N. Ohioville Road New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 901-2725 Contact: Eija Lindsey E-mail: eija@eijaindseystudio.com Website: www.eijalindseystudio.com Category: Artists, Jewelry-Custom Design

Genartworks 295 Main Mall, 4th Floor (Studio) Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 (845) 337-8793 cell Contact: Angelo Franco E-mail: genartworks@optonline.net

Website: www.angelofranco.com Category: Artist - Professional Development

Genworth Financial 12 Park Drive Woodstock, NY 12498 (845) 679-7017 / fax (845) 679-7017 Contact: Louis Werbalowsky E-mail: lwerbalowskyltc@aol.com Website: www.louiswerbalowskyltci.com Category: Insurance Services — Long-Term Care

GunxCrossFit 680 Albany Post Road New Paltz, NY 12561 (908) 433-9155 Contact: Peter Nathan E-mail: info@GunxCrossFit.com Website: www.GunxCrossFit.com Category: Health/Fitness Center

Kniffen Builders 27 S. Chestut St. New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-6363 / fax (845) 255-6366 Contact: Floyd D. Kniffen E-mail: fkniffen@msn.com Website: www.kniffen.com Category: Contractors - General

LaRocca Branding & Advertising, Inc. 503 Primrose Hill Road Rhinebeck, NY 12572 (845) 876-1550 Contact: Mark LaRocca E-mail: Mark@ LaRoccaBrandingAdvertising.com Website: www.LaRoccaBrandingAdvertising.com Category: Advertising/Marketing

MetroPool 550 Route 299 Suite 209 Highland, NY 12528 (845) 321-8037 / (845) 321-8038 Contact: Tami Herendeen Rice E-mail: trice@metropool.com Website: www.metropool.com Category: Transportation

Monkey Boy Industries, Inc. 74 Marakill Lane New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 901-6285

Contact: Eric Weigeshoff E-mail: moneykboyindustries@me.com Website: www.monkey-boy-industries.com Category: Advertising/Marketing

My Best Friend’s Closet 1450 Route 208 Wallkill, NY 12589 845-895-7673 Contact: Janette Burgess E-mail: mybestfriendscloset@live.com Website: www.mybestfriendsclosetny.com Category: Consignment Shop

Provident Bank (845) 651-7512 / cell (845) 608-2492 fax (845) 651-4995 Contact: Steve Williams E-mail: williams@pbcpny.com Website: www.providentbanking.com Category: Banks

Pussyfoot Lodge PO Box 381 Stone Ridge, NY 12484 (845) 687-0330 Contact: Bonnie Greene E-mail: PussyfootLodge@yahoo.com Website: www.PussyfootLodge.com Category: Pet Sitting

RCM Biomedical VisCom LLC 1 Little Pond Lane Wallkill, NY 12589 (845) 252-1559 Contact: Rachel Monticelli E-mail: rachel@rcmbiomedicalvis.com Website: www.rcmbiomedicalvis.com Category: Graphic Design

Seabrook House, Inc. 133 Polk Lane Seabrook, NJ 08302 (800) 455-7575 Admissions, (908) 217-5745 Contact: Lindy Judd E-mail: ljudd@seabrookhouse.org Website: www.seabrookhouse.org Category: Rehabilitation Services

SealTECH 22 Woodland Circle Hyde Park, NY 12538 (845) 454-6511 Contact: Kraig Kallmeyer E-mail: kraig@sealtechsealcoating.com

8 WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


Website: www.sealtechsealcoating.com Category: Asphalt Sealcoating

The Clark House Bed and Breakfast 3292 Route 23A PO Box 465 Palenville, NY 12463 (518) 678-5649 Contact: Christine & Michael Clark E-mail: theclarkhousebb@yahoo.com Website: www.catskillsbb.com Category: Bed and Breakfasts

Ulster County Development Corporation 5 Development Court Kingston, NY 12401 (845) 338-8840 Contact: Lance Matteson E-mail: lmatteson@ulsterny.com Website: www.ulsterny.com Category: Economic Development

Upstate Light 3 Water St. New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-3155 Contact: J. Gilbert Plantinga E-mail: jgp@upstatelight.com Website: www.upstatelight.com Category: Photography - Fine Art, Art Reproduction

Wallkill Valley Land Trust PO Box 208 New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-2761/fax (845) 306-5447 Contact: Amy Poux E-mail: amyp@WallkillValleyLT.org Website: www.wallkillvalleylt.org Category: Environmental Products and Services

Fire Extinguishers & Fire Suppression Systems Service • Sales Installation • Education 845-691-5700 www.gordonfire.com

Westchester Medical Center 110 Executive Offices Valhalla, NY 10595 (914) 493-7711 Contact: Isabel Dichiara E-mail: dichiarai@wcmc.com Website: www.worldclassmedicine.com Category: Hospitals

Mohonk

Mountain House

New members who joined between November 16, 2008 and February 15, 2009.

A Victorian Castle Resort Featuring an Award-Winning Spa, World-Class Dining, and Memorable Meetings . . . All Right on Your Doorstep! Call 845.255.1000 or visit www.mohonk.com

REGIONAL REPORT SPRING 2009

9


IN THE KNOW SMARTER MARKETING MOVES By Kelley Granger

As part of the Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz professional development series, the workshop “Stop Selling & Start Communicating,” will be held on May 29 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the SUNY New Paltz School of Business, in van den Berg Hall, Room 110. Chris Drouin of Beyond Wealth Management will moderate and facilitate the discussion. Speakers will include Kathleen Packard, president and creative director of KathodeRay Media, Inc., Frank J. De Raffele Jr., CEO of the ProActive Leadership Center, and Marcus Guiliano, entrepreneur and chef-owner of Aroma Thyme Bistro. n business, what you don’t know can hurt you. That’s why Chris Drouin, president of Beyond Wealth Management, believes one of the most integral facets of doing business today is knowing how and who to market to, and then making sure that your sales pitches are congruent with those efforts. “If you’re marketing to the right people and your sales process is appropriate, you should be able to speed up client acquisition and bring in the right types of people,” Drouin says. And it’s all about bringing in the right types of people. At the recommendation of Kathleen Packard, the president and creative director of KathodeRay Media Inc., Drouin began using focus groups consisting of his ideal clients to discover what he’s doing right and wrong, and what mes-

I

sage is coming across in his marketing efforts. “They basically give me my sales language,” he says of the focus groups. “I use what [the clients I want to replicate] say about why they hired me. That’s what I incorporate in my marketing materials, and it works.” Marcus Guiliano, the owner and chef of Aroma Thyme Bistro in Ellenville, has similar advice that begins with looking toward your current pool of customers. “The key of marketing is to talk to people who have already bought from you,” he says. “You’ve baited and caught them, now they’re back in that pond. It’s a much easier catch than going to a new pond with the same bait and not knowing who’s fishing in there.” Using post-meal and online surveys, Guiliano has built a database of customers 4,000 strong over the last five

years. “Our database is our pot of gold,” he says. Using that information, Aroma Thyme stays in touch with past patrons through e-mails that offer updates and health tips, and via birthday gift certificates that are mailed out to customers. Since last year, the restaurant has been using certificates with barcodes to track returning customers, and business is up 40 percent over 2008, Guiliano says. While getting people in the door may be the goal, businesses should remember that not every customer is an ideal customer. Drouin suggests also using marketing as a tool to turn away business that you don’t want—your sales process should eject people that aren’t appropriate for you quickly, but respectfully. For example, he purposely chose the words “wealth management” in his business name because

10 WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


TIPS OF THE TRADE Determine how effective your online marketing is (i.e. Google Analytics for websites). Take advantage of free social networking and media tools to promote and brand yourself. Tailor marketing efforts to attract the right clientele, and deter incompatible customers. Home in on the right demographic by talking to existing clients to find out what it is that draws them to your business. Create a customer rewards program that attracts the desired demographic. Talk to existing clients and make sure they’re hearing and interpreting your promotion efforts as you wish.

the term tends to turn off people that merely want a product provider—just investments or just insurance. “[The name is] more attractive to people who want a trusted advisor to coordinate their affairs,” Drouin says. “People who don’t want that relationship don’t really like that term.” It’s also crucial to make sure that you’re making smart marketing choices by spending your time and money wisely. At Aroma Thyme, Guiliano says he’s analyzed his highprofit items and how seats generate income. While an opportunity to do a cooking demonstration for kids might

look like a great chance to promote his business, he’s not interested in actively pursuing that market — children take a seat away from another guest who might spend more, and it usually involves more clean-up for his staff. While he’d never say no to serving children, having an abundance of young guests doesn’t create a positive economic situation, so they’re not a targeted client, he says. Instead, Guiliano is more interested in marketing opportunities specifically geared toward the clients he wants—like putting a couple of tickets to a wine event in an envelope, and sending it to a high-end wine store. An easy marketing outlet is the Internet, which provides boundless opportunity for business promotion, often at no cost. Packard says she is connected via many of the social networking mediums, Plaxo, LinkedIn, Twitter, and more. As a professional dedicated to helping businesses find marketing and branding solutions, these tools have allowed her to promote herself as an expert in the field, keep in touch with colleagues and clients, and influence public perception of her company. Guiliano is connected to the online community as well, and posts blogs daily on his website and utilizes Facebook for business promotion, too. “We’re constantly putting things out there on the Internet be-

cause its an amazing business tool,” he says. “Don’t even open your doors until you’ve got a presence on the Internet.” After applying some of these ideas, Packard recommends getting familiar with a web-tracking service like Google Analytics or WebTrends to survey how your website is faring. If marketing strategy or Internet communications are beyond the scope of your business prowess, Drouin puts it simply: “Do what you do well, and outsource the rest,” he says. “Rely on other experts. If you’re not a good salesperson, get a good training consultant in, or hire a marketing company, and ask other business owners what they’re doing to be successful.” Packard, Guiliano, and Drouin will be joined by Frank J. De Raffele Jr. at the panel discussion on May 29, where they’ll present more ideas and advice in an engaging interactive setting. STOP SELLING & START COMMUNICATING

Friday, May 29, 9–11 a.m. SUNY New Paltz School of Business, Room 110 van den Berg Hall. Sponsored by the Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz. Reservations required. Complimentary to NPRCoC members; $15 for non-members. 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org.

REGIONAL REPORT SPRING 2009

11


Jeff Economy

REEL HUDSON VALLEY continued from front cover

Mary Stuart Masterson on the set of her directorial debut, The Cake Eaters.

Nicole Quinn is one of these veterans. An actress, screenwriter, and filmmaker, she shot her first feature film, Racing Daylight—starring two local Academy Award nominees, David Strathairn and Melissa Leo—in several local locations, including Kerhonkson and her own property in Accord. Quinn believes this region of the Hudson Valley is especially conducive to filmmaking not only because of its proximity to New York City, which she calls a “major artery” to world-class equipment and actors, but also because of the artistic community that calls the area home—a wide selection of cast and crew members can be hired from within the local economy, and often for less than transplanting staff from farther reaches.

But the actors and crew aren’t the only ones who benefit from filming. Every type of business can potentially benefit from a film project, from hotels and restaurants to less obvious commerce including transactions with local lumber yards, office supply stores, coffee shops, and more. While filming Racing Daylight, the cast was put up at the Inn at Stone Ridge and local massage therapists were even hired to take care of any on-set tension. “The whole economy is impacted,” Quinn says. “It’s like a small corporation that forms, dumps a lot of money into the community quickly, and then disappears without a trace.” BIG MONEY, SMALL FOOTPRINT

Bill Stitt of Catskill Mountain Pictures, which has provided location services

for regionally shot films such as War of the Worlds and Patch, agrees. “It’s a way to bring a kind of money into the community that has very little footprint,” he says. “When 30, 40, 50, or even 70 people come to stay a week or two to make a film, they pump anywhere from $500,000 to $5 million into the environment that they’re working in. It’s not like other businesses that might come to town on a temporary basis and have some kind of effect on the local environment that’s lasting.” Stitt, who helped provide location services for the recently filmed Fighting Fish, says that the film called for a pet store scene, and they called on Sue’s Zoo, a strip mall pet shop in New Paltz, to provide a set. Not only did the pet shop make a few

12 WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


Courtesy Hudson Valley Film Commision

On the set of Human Footprint, filmed in the Hudson Valley.

extra bucks from five days of filming, but the surrounding businesses also benefited when the crew made an arrangement with nearby shops to provide a space for the actors to relax while off the set. Even businesses that think they may have nothing to offer a filmmaker should reconsider. Stitt gives an example of a gun shop owner he contacted because a PBS picture they’re currently working on needed a weapons expert to care for and protect the firearms on site. “He didn’t know that was another potential revenue stream, so what we’ll do after this production is over is tell him about the Hudson Valley Film Commission website and hopefully when other people come to town they’ll go to the production guide and get his information,” Stitt says.

This is the principal piece of advice Stitt and Quinn have for businesses interested in promoting their property as a set location or their services for cast and crew—list themselves with the Hudson Valley Film Commission. The HVFC is a nonprofit organization that promotes filmmaking in the region and offers a comprehensive list of resources for productions in the area. CINEMATIC CONNECTIONS

The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce can also provide numerous opportunities for businesses and film professionals to promote themselves, network, and create relationships. Quinn was the featured speaker at the March Chamber luncheon and as a result of that appearance made

a couple of new contacts—one with Robert Miller, an internship coordinator at SUNY New Paltz who will be placing interns with her production company, and Chris Drouin of Beyond Wealth Management, who will now be providing financial planning services for her company. The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce is often one of the first places that local film professionals will look to fulfill their needs. The chamber directory is where Bob Fagan, the proprietor of USIA Video in New Paltz, turns to find local talent, and it’s helped get his name out there too. “I used to work exclusively in New York City, and I’ve gained a good half a dozen clients up here now,” Fagan says. “When I ask how they found me, it’s usually through the Chamber.” Fagan’s business specializes in video for educational, corporate, and small business clients and he provides services for about 20 to 30 productions per year. Aside from a good Internet presence, he recommends businesses join the Chamber to fully reap the other benefits of membership. “I feel very strongly about being a member of the [New Paltz Regional] Chamber of Commerce because we’re a small area here and it helps to network,” he says. “The Chamber offers a lot of events and avenues for advertising that I take advantage of and they’re great for networking within businesses.” The Dutchess County Arts Council is another entity that supports filmmaking in the Hudson Valley through funding for various projects and events like the Woodstock Film Festival, which it helped sponsor last year. Benjamin Krevolin, the president of the council, says that it also provides a weekly e-mail update that offers local venues and filmmakers promotional and funding opportunities, audition notices, REGIONAL REPORT SPRING 2009

13


Courtesy Hudson Valley Film Commision

REEL HUDSON VALLEY calls for crew, location searches, and other listings relevant to the industry. Sean Marrinan, a local actor with a recurring role on the television show “30 Rock,” says he explores opportunities in the area from his home in Rosendale—scouring Internet message boards like those on the HFVC’s website, Craigslist, and more. He got his role in War of the Worlds by replying to a newspaper ad a friend had sent him. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

For those interested in having their property considered by location scouts as a potential filming ground, Stitt says there is no common denominator that can really help make that property appealing to a filmmaker, as a dilapidated building can be just as desirable as a five-star luxury property, depending on the movie. The property or business owners themselves, however, can improve their chances of being selected if they appear to have a good sense of humor, don’t panic, and are good with people, he says. These traits come in handy when the production crew needs to make changes to the existing property to make it fit the film. Nina Smiley, the director of marketing for Mohonk Mountain House, was on site during the filming of The Road to Wellville, which was shot at the resort in the 1993. She says the chief stipulation the property had before going ahead with the shooting was that everything be returned to the way it was before filming began. One of the scenes required an entrance that did not exist, and the crew cut through balconies and banisters to make it happen, but did a beautiful job restoring the area afterward, Smiley

On the set of Fighting Fish, directed by Annette Apitz.

says. Aside from flexibility concerning construction projects, she also says it was important to be flexible and communicative during the entire filming process. “We found that it was important to be as flexible as we could. Although they had a schedule they were on and they had to make things happen, there were still a lot of last-minute changes,” she says. “Communication is the key issue, and making sure that you stay absolutely current with their needs,” she says. Mohonk responded to this necessity by assigning one person as a liaison to anticipate the crew’s concerns and be quick to react. Mohonk found the experience as a film location to be positive. It avoided guest issues by informing visitors prior to arrival that there would be filming, allowing them to make alternate reservations if they desired. The resort benefited from the production but New Paltz also profited—several

hundred extras were hired from the area and many of the film’s staff explored the town’s offerings. Since the filming of The Road to Wellville, Mohonk has hosted a number of catalog and magazine photo shoots, and is open to providing a location for future movies. “We’d be delighted to have another film shot here but it’s very competitive since they’re scouting nationally,” Smiley says. “Their vision of a place has to match perfectly with what we have to offer.” The state also has to think about what it has to offer—the HVFC just lobbied to temporarily restore a 30-percent tax incentive for belowthe-line costs to help lure filmmakers to New York. Signing up for the free listing on the HVFC’s website (www.hudsonvalleyfilmcommission. org) and becoming active through the Chamber is a great way to show support of this lucrative industry and get your business recognized.

14 WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


MEMBER UPDATES Highlight on Sushi Amici Sushi and Chef Makio Idesako were featured in the March issue of Hudson Valley Magazine, highlighting Idesako’s authentically presented and delicious sushi served up in his restaurant in the basement of the DePuy Canal House. Read the article at www. hv.mag.com. For more information about Amici Sushi, visit www.depuycanalhouse.net/ sushimenu.html or call 845-687-7700.

CPA Certification for Jason Puckett Jason Puckett of Walden, New York has received his certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) as of March 2009. Jason is an In-Charge Accountant in the Client Service Department working out of the Orange County office of Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell, LLP, CPAs.

New Head of Behavioral Health at CDPHP CDPHP announced the appointment of Robert A. Holtz MA, MBA, LMHC, as vice president, behavioral health services. In his new position, Holtz will oversee, modify, and administer behavioral health operations. Bob served as behavioral health director with MVP Healthcare and held behavioral health management capacities for Conifer Park, Kaiser Permanente, and Community Health Plan (CHP). He holds a master’s degree in business administration from SUNY Albany; a master’s degree in psychology from SUNY Plattsburgh; and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Boston University College of Liberal Arts. Bob is licensed as a NYS Mental Health Counselor and Certified Addiction Specialist.

New Head of Health Promotion and Wellness Programs at CDPHP CDPHP announced the appointment of Fran Zoske, MSN, RN, as director of its health promotion and wellness programs. Zoske brings more than 30 years of nursing and management experience to her new post. Zoske served as associate professor and curriculum coordinator for Empire State

College Nursing Program and was founder and director of Faith Community Nursing, a nationally acclaimed nursing network for Seton Health/St Mary’s Hospital. She holds a MS in nursing/organizational development from Arizona State University and a BS in nursing from Winona State University.

Green Cleaning for Daycare Centers Ideal Cleaning Solutions has implemented Green Cleaning in two Daycare Centers in Dutchess County. Green Cleaning is not only effective and cost efficient, but it is a safe alternative to conventional cleaning techniques. For more information, visit www.ideallyclean.com or call Ideal Cleaning Solutions at 845-522-2226.

HOW TO SUBMIT Submit items of general public interest; no commercial sales announcements, rates, prices, etc. Items must be received no later than the 15th of Nov., Feb., May, and August to meet the quarterly deadline for the upcoming issue. The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce reserves the right to edit all material. E-mail or fax your information, including company name, address, and phone number, contact name, and your newsbrief (100-word maximum) to the Chamber office via e-mail at info@newpaltzchamber.org, or fax us at 845-255-5189.

SUNY New Paltz Receives Science Research Award

more information, contact the SUNY New Paltz Foundation at 845-257-3238.

The biology and chemistry departments at SUNY New Paltz received a Merck/ American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) 2009 Undergraduate Science Research Program Award. The award provides $20,000 per year over three years for joint use by the biology and chemistry departments. The award provides stipends for four students at SUNY New Paltz to work full time during the summer on interdisciplinary projects under the guidance of two faculty members (one in chemistry and one in biology). The students will present the results of their research projects at a fall symposium.

New Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at SUNY New Paltz

Creation of Freda Heinz Scholarship A scholarship for education students at SUNY New Paltz has been created in honor of Freda Heinz, who graduated from the college in 1930. Freda Heinz died in 2002. The scholarship was established by Freda’s husband, Oscar Heinz, who died in 2005. It was his wish that a renewable recruitment scholarship be created in his wife’s memory to support students pursuing an education degree. Heinz bequeathed more than $175,000 to the SUNY New Paltz Foundation for an endowment. The income earned will be used to provide funding for the scholarship. For

SUNY New Paltz announces the appointment of Donald P. Christian as the college’s new provost and vice president for academic affairs. Dr. Christian is currently dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and a professor of biology at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. In addition to serving as Provost, Christian will hold tenure in the Biology Department. Christian will replace David K. Lavallee, who is stepping down as provost at the end of May 2009, and who served as provost and vice president for academic affairs for 10 years. He will continue to teach in the Chemistry Department.

New Dean of Fine and Performing Arts at SUNY New Paltz SUNY New Paltz announces the appointment of Mary Claire Hafeli as the new dean of the School of Fine and Performing Arts. Hafeli is currently the director and professor of the Master of Arts in Teaching Program at Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) in Baltimore and is a former associate dean of the School of Fine and Performing Arts REGIONAL REPORT SPRING 2009

15


MEMBER UPDATES (2003-2005) and director of the art education program (1999-2003). Hafeli replaces Kurt Daw, who served as dean for five years before accepting a position at San Francisco State University in California as dean of the College of Creative Arts.

SUNY New Paltz Students Looking for Internships Students in the Communication and Media Department at SUNY New Paltz are currently seeking internship placements for summer and fall in the areas of journalism, public relations, radio and TV production, and management, and in positions requiring organizational and interpersonal communication skills. For more information about the Internship Program, please contact Robert Miller, Internship Director, Communication and Media Department, SUNY New Paltz at miller@newpaltz.edu or 845-257-3462.

Dr. Keqin Li Appointed Distinguished Professor The SUNY Board of Trustees has appointed Dr. Keqin Li, professor in the Department of Computer Science at SUNY New Paltz, to the position of Distinguished Professor, the State University’s highest faculty designation. Li is an internationally recognized expert for his prolific research and exemplary scholarship in the development of parallel and distributed computing theory—the means by which computational resources are optimized. Dr. Li earned his Ph.D. in Computer Science in 1990 at the University of Houston and his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in 1985 from Tsinghua University in Beijing, China.

Bradford Graves Exhibit “Bradford Graves: Selected Works” is now on exhibit through June 14 at the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art located on the SUNY New Paltz campus. Working with the generous cooperation of the artist’s estate, the museum has organized a selective exhibition of Graves’ large- and medium-scale sculptural works and several sets of his works on paper. For more information, call 845-257-3844, e-mail sdma@ newpaltz.edu, or visit the Dorsky’s website: www.newpaltz.edu/museum.

Professional Development for Westwood Metes & Bounds Realty Twenty Westwood Metes & Bounds Realty Associates recently graduated from the nationally recognized Floyd Wickman Real Estate Training Program, a seven-week training regimen that focused on providing the best possible professional service to clients.

Demystifying Autism Conference Ulster-Greene ARC presents the conference “Demystifying Autism, What Is it Like to Have Autism?: An Inside-Out Perspective” by William Stillman on Monday, May 18, from 8 a.m.–4 p.m. at the Kingston Holiday Inn. William Stillman, an adult with Asperger’s Syndrome, will answer questions regarding autism, including what it’s like to have autism and how to support other people’s communication, sensory sensitivities, mental health, and movement differences. For more information or to register, call Janine Prisco at 845-338-1234 x721 or e-mail janinep@ugarc.org.

Ulster-Greene ARC Seeks Volunteers Ulster-Greene ARC is seeking volunteers from Ulster and Greene counties who are willing to serve as guardian advocates for adults with autism and other developmental and intellectual disabilities. Volunteers undergo orientation and advocate in matters including health, general care, and life decisions such as housing and employment. Ulster-Greene ARC serves as guardian advocate for people who do not have family or friends to assist in their decisions. Guardianship is administered through the agency’s parent organization, NYSARC, Inc. which serves as guardian. For volunteer information e-mail melissas@ugarc.org or call 845-331-4300 x249. For service information contact Deb Seche, Intake Coordinator, at info@ugarc.org or 845-331-4300 x707.

St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital Launches Community Ambassador Program St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital has launched a new Community Ambassador Program to reflect the enhanced involvement of volunteers in areas of patient care, advocacy, and community outreach. Community Ambassadors include working professionals, retirees, and students. They share a strong desire to help their friends, neighbors and community hospital. SLCH is enhancing its 200-member Community Ambassador program and opportunities are being developed and tailored for persons with diverse talents and interests. To learn more, call 845-568-2391 or e-mail lbaldwin@slchospital.org.

SLCH’s New to You Boutique Adds Designer New to You Boutique, known for its selection of gently used designer clothing, will now add the fashions of local designer Anthony Sicari to its offerings. Sicari recently made a generous donation of men’s ties, ladies knits, dresses, and day-to evening suits, silk, denim, and fragrances. Proceeds of New to You Boutique, located in New Windsor, go toward enhancing care and services at St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital. For more information call 845-569-0014. To donate new and gently used clothing and furniture, or to volunteer at the boutique, call 845-569-0014 or e-mail jditullo@slchospital.org.

SLCH Receives $25,000 Donation for Cancer Treatment Center St. Luke’s Cornwall Health System Foundation has received a $25,000 donation from Price Chopper Supermarkets’ Golub Foundation to support development of the Cancer Treatment Center presently under construction at the SLCH’s Cornwall campus. For more information about giving opportunities, contact the SLC Health System Foundation at 845-568-2580, or visit www.stlukescornwallhospital.org.

16 WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


Ambulatory Surgery Center Awarded Maximum Accreditation

HEALTH LIFE DISABILITY LONG-TERM CARE

Eastern Orange Ambulatory Surgery Center (EOASC) has been awarded the maximum accreditation of three years by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). EOASC has offered quality and convenience to thousands of same-day surgery patients since opening in 2007 at the St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital Cornwall Medical Pavilion, 21 Laurel Avenue, Cornwall. For more information on the services provided call 845-458-7800.

Your Chamber’s Benefits Administrator

St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital Awarded $5,000 for Youth Mentoring

Tammy Baumbach Joins New Horizons Asset Management Group New Horizons Asset Management Group recently hired Tammy Baumbach of Walden

A SEASONAL GUIDE TO THE MID-HUDSON VALLEY

Suggested Itineraries & Day Trips Events Guide to the Best of the Region Where to Eat, Shop, Hike, & Stay

Sojourn: seasonal guide to the region

NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.newpaltzchamber.org

A seasonal tourism magazine highlighting the abundant opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and education for visitors. Deadline for summer issue is 5/1.

BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS

St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital is proud to announce Lucia Florio as its March Star of the Month. A 20-year employee, Florio is a phlebotomist at the laboratory’s Hudson Valley Imaging site in New Windsor. She is best known for her gentle care and dedication to patients. SLCH employees are nominated for the Star of the Month award by their co-workers, patients, physicians, and/or visitors, based on Stellar Service Standards. These standards focus on making customers feel comfortable and important, providing timely and orderly service, and improving communication with patients and staff.

3 distinct publications for 3 unique markets Sojourn

MEMBERS RESOURCE

Lucia Florio Named SLCH March Star of the Month

39 Market Street Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 845-471-8200

VACATION & LOCAL RECREATION

St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital was recently awarded a $5,000 grant from Key Foundation to support the hospital’s youth mentoring program. The key objectives of the program are to encourage students to contribute their time and talents to their community, to offer an opportunity to experience varied career opportunities in the health care industry, and to assist personnel in providing quality care to our patients and their families. For more information on becoming a community ambassador at SLCH, call 845-568-2391 or e-mail lbaldwin@slchospital.org.

Regional Report: b2b magazine The Chamber’s quarterly Regional Report is dedicated to news and in-depth coverage of activities, events, and regional issues, and the people behind the businesses in the greater New Paltz area. Deadline for summer issue is June 1.

membership directory This annual comprehensive membership directory features a complete list, including crossreference by category, of the New Paltz Regional Chamber membership and has a 12-month shelf life. Deadline for annual issue is May 1.

advertising opportunities: To place an ad in any of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce’s family of publications, contact Maryellen Case at (914) 953-3202 or mcase@chronogram.com.

REGIONAL REPORT SPRING 2009

17


MEMBER UPDATES as a Group Benefit Administrator to assist in servicing business clients. She will coordinate processing of employee benefits, enrollments, termination, and changes. New Horizons, member NASD, is an investment management firm that also specializes in group employee benefits. For more information, please call Steven Gleason at 845-567-3930.

Amateur Photography Competition in New Paltz For the Quadricentennial, tulips were planted throughout New Paltz—the “Welcome to New Paltz” sign, Historic Huguenot Street, SUNY New Paltz campus, Town Hall, and the garden at Main and Chestnut Streets. All amateur photographers, including students of all ages, are invited to submit photos of these red and yellow tulips on public property. Maximum two entries per person. Submit two 5 x 7 photos for each entry and include Name, Address, Phone, E-mail, Title (if applicable), and School/Grade (if appropriate). Deliver photos to the CIT mailbox in Town Hall or mail to Community Improvement Team, P.O. Box 550, New Paltz, NY 12561 by May 22. Photos will not be returned. Photos will be on display at Old New Paltz Day, May 30, where they will be judged and awarded prizes.

KathodeRay Media Publishes Be Clutter Free E-book KathodeRay Media will be publishing an e-book version of Be Clutter Free, developed by Rosalyn Cherry of Organized and ClutterFree. This is a motivation-based action plan to empower those with too much stuff to start to let go by developing the de-clutter muscle. Everything learned about this process is out of experiences in helping a wide variety of clients. If you have tried to de-clutter without success, or want to know how to successfully clear clutter from your home, office or garage, visit the website at www.beclutterfreebook.com.

Ulster Savings Gardiner Branch 2009 Art Exhibit Schedule Ulster Savings Bank announces its 2009 Art Exhibit schedule at its 2201 Rt. 44/55,

Gardiner branch. The public is invited to attend. Light refreshments will be served from 12:00–2:00pm on the opening day of each exhibit. The continuing 2009 exhibit schedule is: Jean Tansey (botanical photographer), through May 21; Debra Lahm (photographer), May 22–July 2; Myrna Socol (painter), July 3–August 13. Ulster Savings Bank features artwork from local artists at several of its branch locations. For more information about artist receptions, please contact Kathy DeLano, Gardiner Branch Manager, or Cindy Dates, Branch Supervisor, at 845-255-4262.

Michael Shaughnessy of Ulster Savings Appointed to Freddie Mac Board Michael Shaughnessy of Woodstock, executive vice president and chief lending officer at Ulster Savings Bank, was appointed to the Freddie Mac Community Lending Advisory Board. The advisory board’s mission is to provide a forum for dialogue between Freddie Mac and its customers. For more information about Ulster Savings Bank, visit www.ulstersavings.com.

Provident Bank Donates to Home Aides The Provident Bank Charitable Foundation donated $12,500 to Home Aides of Rockland Inc. in New City, in support of the organization’s reduced-rate home care program. The program addresses the growing need for affordable home care services that will assist Rockland County’s lowincome, homebound residents. For more information about Provident Bank, visit www.providentbanking.com.

Forty Under 40 Congratulations to New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce members who were named one of the “Forty under 40” by the Greater Southern Dutchess Chamber of Commerce: Jeanne Campbell, manager of rehabilitation, St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital; Christopher Rottkamp, director of engineering, Vassar Brother’s Medical Center, a Health Quest affiliate; Michael Valentino, sales department associate, Hudson Valley Federal

Credit Union; and Greg Zurawik, corporate communications manager, St. Francis Hospital and Health Centers.

Summer Programs for Kids at Unison Unison Arts and Learning Center presents four summer children’s programs: Summer Arts Program for children ages 5-7, with Jill Olesker & Staff, Monday-Friday, July 6 to July 31, 9am-1pm; Galumpha Gang performing arts summer program for children ages 7-14, Monday-Thursday, July 6 to 16, 9am-3pm, at the New Paltz Middle School; Phillies Bridge Farm Camp for ages 6-11, Monday-Thursday, 9am-2pm, July 27-August 13; and Wayfinder Experience for ages 8-16, Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm, August 3-August 21. For more information about these summer programs, visit www. unisonarts.org, e-mail info@unisonarts.org or call Unison at 845-255-1559.

Mohonk Mountain Stage Company June Performances Mohonk Mountain Stage Company continues its 15th Anniversary Celebration Season with two anticipated June productions at Unison Art and Learning Center, 68 Mountain Rest Rd., New Paltz. A program of new works by playwright Nina Shengold will be held on June 12 and 13 at 8:00 p.m. and on June 19 and 20, MMSC presents Kimberly Akimbo by David Lindsay-Abaire. For more information about Mohonk Mountain Stage Company and its upcoming productions, visit www.mmstageco.com.

BMA-HV Marketing Leadership Awards Event The Business Marketing Association of the Hudson Valley (BMA-HV) will hold its third annual Marketing Leadership Awards Event on June 4, at the Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz, at 7:30 a.m. The recipients of this year’s awards are the directors of tourism for Orange, Ulster, and Dutchess counties: Susan Hawvermale-Cayea, Rick Remsnyder and Mary Kay Vrba. The award ceremony

18 WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


will be followed by a presentation from each of the recipients on the state of tourism in his or her county. For more information or to RSVP, visit www.bma-hv.org, or contact Rebecca Jones at rjones@mccm.com or 845-486-6813.

NPFD Car Show & Flea Market The New Paltz Volunteer Fire Department will hold a giant car show and flea market on Saturday, May 16 from 8 a.m.–5 p.m. at New Paltz Fire Station #2, South Putt Corners Rd. Great bargains, food, hot rods, and more! Vendor space may still be available. For more information, call 845-255-1520.

Arnoff Moving & Storage Certified ProMover Arnoff Moving & Storage, locally-owned and operated since 1924, has been officially certified as a ProMover by the industry’s trade group, the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA). AMSA provides ProMover certification only after the designated company has passed a background check of its operations and has agreed to abide by a set of honorable business practices and AMSA’s Code of Ethics. The certification authorizes Arnoff Moving & Storage to display the bold capital “M” logo, which is the mark of a ProMover, in its advertising, marketing materials, and website. Please visit www.arnoff.com or call 845-790-0761 for more information.

Ideal Cleaning Solutions offers full service commercial cleaning. We specialize in professional office cleaning, new construction clean up as well as carpet and floor services. We want to clean your commercial building to our high standards so that you can focus on doing your job in a clean and healthy environment. Ideal Cleaning Solutions will clean your building so well that you might just take us for granted, we will take that as a compliment.

We offer •

Commercial Cleaning Service-Two, Three or Five days a week

• • •

Project Cleaning New Construction Clean Up Floor Care Services

• •

Support Services And More

1439 State Route 208, Wallkill NY, 12589 | www.ideallyclean.com | 845.522.2226

Kimlin Propane

Oakwood Friends School Volunteers in New Orleans 16 senior students, one alumnus, and three faculty members from Oakwood Friends School spent a portion of their spring break volunteering in New Orleans, spending four days helping to rebuild a home in the Upper Ninth Ward and one day with students at Benjamin Banneker School. They also toured the levee breach sites and met with locals who remained in New Orleans after Katrina. Upon returning, the group held a Creole fundraising dinner, raising approximately $500 for relief organizations in New Orleans, and hosted the 3rd Annual Race to Rebuild on April 18th. For more information, call Julie Okoniewski at 845-462-4200, x 445.

(845) 255-7324 Gardiner, NY Serving Ulster, Dutchess, and beyond

Our Friendly Service Is REAL! REGIONAL REPORT SPRING 2009

19


!" # $ !! # % & ' ( ) * )#

DISNEY INSTITUTE AD

01&% / / # 1%% / / //////////////////////////// 23 4

1%% / / # 51&% / / ////////////////////////////6 7 + * (%1%% / / # ((1&% / / ////////////////////////) + * ((1&% / / # (1%% / / //////////////////////////6 (1%% / / # $1&% / / ////////////////////////////* + * &1%% / / # !1&% / / ////////////////////////////6 + * 9 ! " # $% & ' ( ' )

!"#$""#%$!&'

($! ) * + *

+ , ($"-( . /

20 WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


THE BOTTOM LINE LEGISLATION AND NEWS THAT AFFECTS YOUR BUSINESS Compiled by Kelley Granger

Rising Utility Rates? Take a Hike Central Hudson Gas & Electric Co. has proposed rate hikes for delivery of natural gas (8 percent) and electricity (2.5 percent). In response to the company’s anticipated increases, which would see an additional $35.4 million in electricity delivery revenue and $14.7 more in gas delivery for Central Hudson for the year starting July 1, the Public Service Commission is urging the company to reduce the increases by more than half. Ulster County Executive Michael Hein told the Mid-Hudson News Network that “no rate increase is affordable in these economic times.” Consumers can expect a final resolution in June.

Direct Effect If you mail postcards, flyers, or other direct mail to build business with current or prospective customers, you may be subject to new requirements if a bill concerning unsolicited advertisements is passed. The bill—A.3191 (Pheffer)— which says it will help protect personal privacy and prevent identity fraud, would require businesses sending materials to inform the recipients of the advertisements of the right to decline future contact. Businesses would also be required to keep a list of those customers who opted out, and would be subject to penalties for violations. The Business Council of New York State opposes the bill, which it describes as a threat to the most “affordable, effective, and efficient” way for small businesses to advertise.

We thank them for saving our stores and our jobs.” Across the country, it’s legal to sell wine in grocery and convenience stores in 35 states.

I Love New York, But Not as Much…

Wine, Not In

the controversial bill that did not make it onto this year’s budget, Gov. Paterson proposed that grocery and convenience stores that currently sell beer be allowed to offer wine if they pay a franchise fee. Over three years, the governor’s office estimated the legislation would add $150 million to state coffers. The Business Council of New York State supported the legislation, saying that it would generate new revenue, create more markets for New York wineries, and offer convenience and savings for consumers. Liquor stores (which number 2,600 in the state) opposed the bill, citing that the increased competition from 19,000 retail establishments would result in debilitating decreases in business and job loss. “Big box chains have put butchers and bakeries out of business, and have forced more and more independent hardware stores and pharmacies to close their doors,” Jeff Saunders of the Retailers Alliance Foundation said in a statement on www.laststoreonmainstreet. com. “But because we are regulated by the state, the Legislature—not the big box stores—had the power to save or shutter our stores and they chose to keep our small businesses open.

Catchy advertising campaigns known the world over have helped make New York a titan of a tourist destination, but with the outcome of the state’s final executive budget, we may not be able to rely as heavily on government-funded promotions. According to the budget, backing for tourism and marketing programs, including “I Love New York” Tourism, Local Tourism Matching Grants, International Trade, Explore New York, and Business Marketing will be reduced or eliminated by $10 million for 2009-2010 and 2010-2011. After those cuts are made, there will be $17 million that will continue to advocate the state through tourism and marketing agendas.

New COBRA Conditions As a result of the recently passed federal stimulus bill, employers should be aware of the changes to COBRA health coverage. While employees will have a reduction in premiums for involuntary termination through a 65-percent subsidy paid by the government, employers will have to pay the subsidy up front, and will then be reimbursed through a tax credit. Employers are also required to update or provide supplements to their COBRA notices. For date details and more information, visit www.dol.gov/ebsa/cobra.html. REGIONAL REPORT SPRING 2009

21


Shirt and poster photos: Adam Chandler / Hard Rock International

EVENT SPOTLIGHT

THE WOODSTOCK LEGACY AN INTERVIEW WITH WADE LAWRENCE OF THE BETHEL WOODS MUSEUM By Kelley Granger he Museum at Bethel Woods opened last June as part of the more than $100 million Bethel Woods Center for the Arts project designed to bring economic development to the area and reinforce its rich history of arts and culture. Wade Lawrence, the museum director, will be speaking at a May 20 chamber luncheon sponsored by Brinckerhoff and Neuville Insurance Group about civic tourism, the mission of the museum and its role in helping to revitalize the economy and business community of the area. Lawrence brings more than 20 years of experience in realms like historic preservation and heritage tourism to the Museum at Bethel Woods. Before assuming his new position

T

in New York, he was most recently the director of Glensheen, a historic house museum in Minnesota. He says he was drawn to the job at Bethel Woods because he was fascinated by the sound and film footage captured at this historic event, which makes it unlike any other preservation task he’s been involved with. “I’m a child of the ‘60s myself,” Lawrence says. “I lived through the era and it shaped who I am today.” Here, he discusses his own favorite museum artifacts, what we can expect from new exhibits, and more. There are 20 films that are part of the experience of the museum’s permanent exhibit. Which of these are you most drawn to and why?

There’s a film called Woodstock: The Music. It’s 21 minutes of the best of the musical performances and we use the original film footage from the Warner Brothers documentary (which won best documentary for 1970) that’s been re-edited and repurposed, and we added interviews from performers commenting on their own performances and on others’ performances. Carlos Santana comments on Jimi Hendrix, and his comments are absolutely stunning. The first time I saw the film I saw it in our theater all alone, and in that darkened room watching those 21 minutes, tears streamed down my face and at the end I had to stand up and applaud. I think I’ve seen that movie probably a hundred times now and it’s still moving.

22 WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


Courtesy Museum at Bethel Woods

Opposite: Shirt worn by rock and roll legend Sly Stone. Above (left to right): Original Woodstock poster that advertises Wallkill instead of the Bethel location; exterior of the Bethel Woods Museum.

What role does technology play in the experience of the museum? The most obvious to our visitors are a number of interactive exhibits where the visitor can control what the exhibit does. Behind the scenes technology plays an immense role because the films, interactives, and lighting are controlled by a central control room that’s fed by miles of fiber optic. The technology really does make the museum hum, but obviously technology without content is shallow and we’re very proud of the fact that we have a great story to tell that’s told intelligently and factually. The museum houses more than 300 artifacts. Which do you think is the most peculiar and what’s the story behind it? We’ve borrowed some artifacts from some local collectors and [have] this collection of notes that festival attendees left for each other. There’s a paper plate from a guy named Dan who is trying to get in touch with Cindy, who he met at the festival and according

to the note, he was too “untogether” to remember to ask for her address. These are charming artifacts, the original thing, and it reminds us that Woodstock happened at a time when there were no cell phones, instant messengers, or pagers, and if you wanted to connect with somebody in a crowd of half a million people, you tacked a note on a paper plate on a tree and hoped that person would read it. What can we expect from the new Rock Heroes exhibit? Rock Heroes is a collection of 16 objects loaned to us by Hard Rock International that was owned by Woodstock performers. There were only a couple of things that were actually at Woodstock, like Pete Townsend’s smashed guitar. We also have a very rare, wonderful Woodstock poster that’s the original first printing and advertises the festival when it was located at Wallkill instead of Bethel. It’s the iconic poster but it’s got the wrong city on it. [A second exhibit, “Old School,” also debuted featuring a

`60s-style chopper motorcycle crafted by Orange County Choppers.] Why do you think people continue to be fascinated by and connect with the Woodstock festival? It’s been embraced by the world and I think what connects people to Woodstock is a sense of freedom, selfexpression, and an optimism for the future. Right now, the way the world economy is and with the violence and the wars, people want to have some optimism that the world can be a better place, and Woodstock represents that to a lot of people. Business Luncheon featuring Wade Lawrence Wednesday, May 20, 12–1:30 p.m. Mohonk Mountain House, 1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz Sponsored by Brinckerhoff and Neuville Insurance Group, Inc. Reservations required. Complimentrary for NPRCoC Corporate Partners. $18 for NPRCoC members; $25 for non-members. 845-255-0243; info@newpaltzchamber.org.

REGIONAL REPORT SPRING 2009

23


MEMBER PROFILES Pet Industry By Kelley Granger

Paul Mitchell, Origins, and Harley Davidson are just a few of the brand-name businesses that are sniffing out sales opportunities in the pet industry, and with good reason—this year, Americans are expected to spend a whopping $45 billion on their pets, a number that’s climbed steadily higher for the past 15 years. From high-end shampoo to high-tech identification tags, 71 million U.S. households are pampering their pets to the top degree. Here in the New Paltz area, there’s no shortage of businesses that cater to differing realms of the animal kingdom.

MEMBER PROFILE

LUCKY C STABLES usan Clark jokes that her enthusiasm for horses is a genetic defect, but it’s one that saw her all the way from the hobby horse of her childhood to qualifying for world championship quarter horse competitions. The same passion also led her to Missouri, where she enrolled in an equine studies program and found another love, her husband Gary. By 1987, the Clarks had moved back to the New Paltz area and started Lucky C Stables on a small five-acre farm. When housing development forced them to move, they found a parcel of land on Yankee Folly Road that provided the space to let their business blossom. At five years old, Lucky C had 10 horses and 15 students taking riding lessons.

S

Today, with an indoor and outdoor riding arena, 13 paddocks, and 29 stalls, Lucky C houses more than 40 horses and teaches about 100 riding lessons every week, in both English and Western disciplines. The stable is also home to Ulster County’s largest 4-H horse group, where about 40 local children (who may or may not take riding lessons) get to learn equine care—how to groom, clip, exercise the horses, and more. Lucky C is also the backbone of the SUNY New Paltz Equestrian Team, an ever-growing group of students that have an opportunity to compete on a regional and national basis. This year, the team of 20 won reserve champion for the region, with a few riders moving on to higher-level competition. Aside from

the horses, having this interaction with the kids of the community is something the Clarks take pride in. “Riding teaches personal strength, perseverance, courage, and responsibility—this is a living animal that depends on you to take care of it,” Susan Clark says. “We try to teach kids good values, and it’s like we’re an extension of their family. Many kids feel like we’re their second parent, or at least we’re a support mechanism if they should need it.” Lucky C Stables 31 Yankee Folly Rd. New Paltz, NY 12561 845-255-3220 www.luckycstables.com

24 WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


MEMBER RENEWALS Thank you!

MEMBER PROFILE

NEW PALTZ ANIMAL HOSPITAL n an area as eclectic as Ulster County, the New Paltz Animal Hospital certainly does a good job of reflecting the unique nature of the region and its pets. For one, it has recently introduced service for animals beyond the ordinary cat and dog, and now provides care for birds, reptiles, and “pocket pets” (a hamster or guinea pig, for example). In addition to the standard exams, diagnostics, surgery, and injury care that the clinic offers, the New Paltz Animal Hospital also has a holistic care veterinarian on staff who can provide acupuncture, electric stimulation, and chiropractic services. Alison Soscia, the chief of staff at the hospital, says the holistic vet is also able to consult with pet owners about different herbs and neutraceuticals that could be of benefit. She estimates that more than 45 percent of the hospital patients partake in the holistic services that are available.

I

The New Paltz Animal Hospital is part of VetCor, a network of animal hospitals with more than 40 locations across the country. Being part of a group like this helps ensure the hospital has up to date medications and technology, and it helps absorb some of the costs of operating rather than passing them on to the clients, Soscia says. She’s quick to add that belonging to a corporate structure doesn’t force the hospital to conform to a cookie-cutter model—the clinic maintains autonomy in how it practices veterinary care. Beyond that, Soscia says staff members go out of their way to provide a fun, relaxed environment for pets and their owners (and they strive to not smell like a veterinary office). New Paltz Animal Hospital 230 Main St. New Paltz, NY 845-255-5055 www.vetcor.com/newpaltz

Abbott & Mills, Inc. Acadia HR Adair Vineyards Adirondack Trailways ADS Funding Corp. American Pool Players Association Ann Barber Consulting Apple Hill Farm Aroma Thyme Bistro Autumn Sky Development Co. Baldwin Vineyards Barnaby’s Restaurant & Bar Beuf and Bowe Renovation and Remodeling Blatchly & Simonson, P.C. bluecashew Kitchen Pharmacy Campus Auxiliary Services, Inc. Celtic H.V.A.C. Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation Clear Channel Radio of the Hudson Valley CMS Consulting Services Coldwell Banker Currier & Lazier Realtors College Diner Commonwealth Advisors Ltd. Coupart Construction Co., Inc. Craig Thomas Pest Control, Inc. David K. Gordon, Esq. Dedrick’s Pharmacy & Gifts Donald L.Grumbine, CSW Dressel Farms DS Electric Econolodge Motel Edward Jones Empire State Bank, NA Family of New Paltz Foster & Schmalkuche, P.C. Four Seasons Sunrooms Foxx Pools By Charles Burger Handmade & More Harriet Forman Barrett Harvest Café, Restaurant & Wine Bar HeritageLaceOutlet.com Heritagenergy Hudson Valley Contractors, Inc.

REGIONAL REPORT SPRING 2009

25


MEMBER RENEWALS Hudson Valley Internet In Living Color J.T.S. Design, Inc. Jacqueline Dooley Internet Marketing Jenkinstown Antiques JoAnne M. Boehm, CPCU Jonathan R. Sennett, P.C. JR Electric Service Inc. Justino Chiropractic & Wellness Center K & W Carwash KathodeRay Media, Inc. KEM Landscaping LLC Kids Klub Childcare Center, Inc. Kim Petro McCrum Consulting LeFevre House Bed & Breakfast Lifebridge Sanctuary Linda Kimlin Living Art Landscapes Inc. Lopane & Co., CPA’s, PC M & T Bank M.J. Posner Construction Co., Inc. Manny’s Art Supplies Mark Gruber Gallery Mark L. Parisi, PhD. McDonald’s Mid-Hudson Acupuncture Mohonk Mountain House Mountain Laurel Waldorf School Mountain Tree Care Mountview Realty, Inc. Natural Synergies, Inc. New Horizons Asset Management Group, LLC New Paltz Central School District New Paltz Karate Academy New Paltz Rural Cemetery New Paltz Travel Center New Paltz Wine & Spirits Paul T. O’Neill Pegasus Footwear Outlet PianoSummer (SUNY New Paltz) Poughkeepsie Journal PPA Hudson Valley, Inc. Precision Care Software Present-Day Products Queens Galley Quiznos Sub

MEMBER PROFILE

PUSSYFOOT LODGE he Pussyfoot Lodge has graced the pages of Hudson Valley Connoisseur, Cat Fancy, and other publications. What owner Bonnie Greene has dubbed a “bed and breakfast for kitties” lives up to that motto—boarding is provided in spacious eight-foot square, threelevel rooms with features that include windows, aquariums, and adjoining rooms for large cat families. Greene serves meals each day and says she caters the stay to the personalities of her guests; whether they’d like to hang out with the B&B owner or have time to themselves to explore. Each room is made of materials that are completely washable and able to be sanitized to protect the next guest. This also makes the experience more comfortable for the cat, who might otherwise be disturbed by traces of scent left by a previous visitor. Greene takes special precaution to keep cats

T

contented and safe, using only disposable items and encouraging cat owners to bring their own blankets, beds, or toys so their pet will have something familiar while they’re adjusting to their new surroundings. Greene has been providing boarding services at the Pussyfoot Lodge for more than 30 years, after an experience leaving her cats in cages at a veterinary office spurred her to devise a better way of boarding. She also performs in-home pet-sitting services. The lodge’s clients range from vacationers to the elderly, who sometimes permanently board their pet at the Pussyfoot if they’re no longer able to take care of it. Pussyfoot Lodge PO Box 381 Stone Ridge, NY 12484 845-687-0330 www.pussyfootlodge.com

26 WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


MEMBER RENEWALS Radiance Day Spa Ridgeline Realty Rino’s Pizza Inc. Riverside Bank Robert Waltke & Son, LLC Rock Da Pasta Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art Sara Gast Floral Designs Schreiber Orchards, Inc. Sedore & Company, CPA’s Skytop Sound Smith Barney MEMBER PROFILE

HUDSON VALLEY BOUNDARIES, INC. ave Wingfield is the proprietor behind Hudson Valley Boundaries, but he’s probably better known as DogWatch Dave. He and his wife Sharon have become a staple in the celebrity canine circuit of the Hudson Valley, having installed invisible boundary systems for the pets of stars like Mary Tyler Moore and William Hurt. On a regular basis, Wingfield and his employees head out to properties sized at a tenth of an acre to 200 acres to set up hidden fence systems, traveling 100,000 miles per year to service customers. Wingfield made a move from a career as a service manager for Toyota to DogWatch invisible fence sales in the ‘90s after an experience of trying to install an invisible fence system to contain his black lab, Chance. “I bought a system and put it in myself, but I did it wrong and didn’t get much support from the manufacturer with the problems I was having,” Wingfield says. Coming from a background with Toyota, he says he valued warranties and eventually found DogWatch, a system that provides a great warranty and reliability. Wingfield has won a slew of dealer awards from the DogWatch manufacturer, including

D

“Top Dog,” for being in the top 10 sellers in the country, and dealer of the year, which is based on outstanding customer service and sales. Hudson Valley Boundaries can install outdoor invisible fencing to contain pets and also offers indoor options that can be placed on a countertop, behind a garbage can, or in any room where you’d want to deter the pet’s entry. The systems work with a collar that emits noise followed by a mild stimulation when the pet gets close to the boundary, and indoor and outdoor systems can be synched to work together. For Wingfield, the reward of his business is seeing how the product he sells helps change dogs for the better. “It’s peace of mind for the owners and freedom for the dog, psychologically and physically you’re gonna have a better dog,” he says. “You give them freedom and the chance to have a little fun and you will see a changed animal.” Hudson Valley Boundaries, Inc. 450 McKinstry Road Gardiner, NY 845-255-3126 www.dogwatchdave.com

Smitty’s Body Shop of New Paltz, Inc.

Southside Terrace Apartments St. John Bosco Child & Family Services SUNY New Paltz SUNY New Paltz CRREO SUNY New Paltz Foundation SUNY New Paltz School of Fine & Performing Arts Super 8 Motel of New Paltz Tantillo’s Farm Market Terry Austin, Cartoonist The Bicycle Rack The Big Cheese The Great Lakes Bar & Restaurant The Kempner Corporation The Susie Reizod Foundation Town of New Paltz Tri-County Planning Services, Inc. True Value of New Paltz Tuthilltown Spirits, LLC Ulster Bed & Breakfast Alliance Ulster Insurance Services, Inc. USIA Video Vail & Sutton, Inc. Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell LLP, CPA’s Viking Industries, Inc. Vision Works, Inc. Woodland Pond at New Paltz Wyld Acres Yussel’s Place Judaic Art & Gift Gallery Members who renewed between November 16, 2008 and February 15, 2009.

REGIONAL REPORT SPRING 2009

27


MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

LETS MAKE A DIFFERENCE TOGETHER A strong business community benefits the whole community. We will use this space in each issue to help you understand how the benefits of Chamber membership may be used to your advantage. For this inaugural issue, we’ll try to answer two basic Chamber-related questions.

What is a chamber of commerce? According to Wikipedia, a chamber of commerce is a local organization of businesses whose goal is to further the business interests of the community. This rather dry definition is adequate, but fails to capture the breadth of a modern chamber’s mission. The American Association of Chamber Executives (ACCE) handles matters more vigorously in the About Us section of its website: “Today’s chambers of commerce, rather than being narrowly focused on one particular industry, issue, cause, or activity, focus on a broad range of activities and support for both businesses and communities.” It is this broad focus that differentiates chambers of commerce from smaller, more centralized business associations or industry-specific trade associations. ACCE goes on to call attention to the common misconception that chambers of commerce are agencies of local, state, or federal government—we are not. Chambers generally, and your Chamber specifically, do work with government

agencies on business, tourism, and community initiatives and help their members connect with government officials, but we are incorporated as a private, not-for-profit business.

What does a chamber of commerce do? Chamber board, staff, and members work together to strengthen the business community and make their region a better place to work, visit, worship, and call home by providing enriching professional development workshops and effective networking opportunities, access to affordable group health benefits, cost-effective marketing tools, and information on tourism and the regional business climate to attract visitors and recruit new businesses. The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce also produces large public events, including Taste of New Paltz, which attracts more than 8,000 visitors to the Hudson Valley each year, and provides leadership on issues including health care, education, transportation, and workforce development.

Chamber membership demonstrates a commitment to the health of your business and to the region’s economic health and quality of life. Long before it became a slogan of the sustainability movement, chambers of commerce had employed the Think Local First principle to advance local business interests, grow the regional tax base, preserve regional character, create jobs, and promote economic development, competition and diversity. Members gain an advantage from the simple fact of membership. According to the ACCE-sponsored 2007 Shapiro Group study “The Real Value of Joining a Local Chamber of Commerce,” chamber members enjoy an increase of 44% in consumer favorability over non-members, 55% in consumer awareness, 57% in local reputation, and 63% in the likelihood of future patronage overall. It is truly your Chamber, and we encourage you to contact us by phone or e-mail, or stop in at our office and Visitor Center, to discuss questions, ideas, and points of view. We are proud to offer our help and services, and look forward to working with you into a bright future.

28 WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


$ '\QDPLF &RUSRUDWH :HOOQHVV &ROODERUDWLRQ 7UHDWPHQW DW WKH ZRUNSODFH 3ULYDWH FRQVXOWDWLRQV x :HLJKW ORVV GLDEHWHV KHDUW KHDOWK SURJUDPV x ,QGLYLGXDO JURXS LQFHQWLYHV 2QOLQH SODQV x ,PSURYHG SURGXFWLYLW\ UHGXFHG VLFN WLPH x 6DYLQJV RQ LQVXUDQFH SUHPLXPV

9LFNL .RHQLJ 06 5' &'1 ZZZ QXWULWLRQ ZLVH FRP ,Q 1HZ 3DOW]

0LG +XGVRQ $FXSXQFWXUH :LOOLDP :HLQVWHLQ 0 6 / $F

0,1,0,=,1* 3$,1 ,6 285 0,66,21 &RUSRUDWH :HOOQHVV 6HUYLFHV ,QGLYLGXDO 7UHDWPHQW x *URXS VWUHVV PDQDJHPHQW ZLWK DFXSXQFWXUH x *URXS VPRNLQJ FHVVDWLRQ 1HZ 3DOW] 0DQKDWWDQ ZZZ PKDFX FRP

%ULQJLQJ EHWWHU KHDOWK WR WKH ZRUNSODFH REGIONAL REPORT SPRING 2009

29


OUR CORPORATE PARTNERS

O

ur Corporate Partners, at the highest level of membership, play an exclusive and vital role in the important work of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce.

2009 CORPORATE PARTNERS Associate Partner

As a premier member at the corporate partner level, they enjoy the advantage of exceptionally valuable benefits, in addition to those included in the standard NPRCoC membership. Exclusive opportunities to deliver your message to over 30,000 public event attendees, over 800 active Chamber members, and countless Hudson Valley residents, including a full 12 months of visibility in every Chamber publication, communication, and event. Customized personal service from the Chamber’s expert staff, including communications designed exclusively to keep you informed.

Brinckerhoff and Neuville Insurance Group Supporting Partners

Health Quest Ulster Savings

We invite you to choose from four elite Corporate Partner membership categories: Principal, Leading, Associates and Supporting.

CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS Quality • Care • Craftsmanship RENOVATIONS • ADDITIONS NEW CONSTRUCTION

ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDING 46 N. Chestnut Street, New Paltz, NY

845.255.5988 www.seakill.com 30 WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


Frost Valley YMCA Enjoy the Catskill Mountain High Peaks

Families Groups Teambuilding (845) 985-2291 info@frostvalley.org

FrostValley.org 2000 Frost Valley Road, Claryville, NY 12725

REGIONAL REPORT SPRING 2009

31


124 Main St., Suite 8 New Paltz, NY 12561

SHE BAKES WITH LOCAL INGREDIENTS. AND SHE BANKS WITH THEM TOO. OUR BUSINESS SOLUTIONS Your one-stop financial resource t Business

Kristin Frisina, owner of the Village Market & Bakery in Gardiner, relies on homegrown ingredients to satisfy her customers. And for financial support, she trusts her hometown bank - Ulster Savings.

checking t Business insurance t Loans and lines of credit t Investing and 401(k) t Commercial mortgages t Merchant services t Tax preparation and planning t Bookkeeping

Contact US today for our competitive rates!

1-866-440-0391

sbenz@ulstersavings.com

Free gift with every appointment!

Member

FDIC

*Bookkeeping, Investment, Tax, Payroll and Insurance products and services available through Ulster Insurance Services, Inc. and Ulster Financial Group, Inc., subsidiaries of Ulster Savings Bank, are NOT FDIC INSURED.


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.