New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce Regional Report by Chronogram

COMMUNITY

BUS I NES S

EDUCATION

NEW PALTZ

REGIONAL

CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE

TOURISM

REGIONAL

REPORT

WINTER 2010

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

DOMESTIC PRODUCT

IN THIS ISSUE

Enter the Era of Home-Based Business By Kelley Granger

Wellness in the Workplace

The Bottom Line

Establishing an Eco-Office

Member Profiles: Sustainable Businesses

ach day, more than 25 million people can be found working from home, whether telecommuting for a company or forging an entrepreneurial path of their own. The home office is no longer considered the strict domain of mom-and-pop-operations, hobbyists, or those less professional than their commercial-rent-paying peers. New research suggests that “homepreneurs,” the label given to these home-based business owners, have a critical role to play in the economy. Emergent Research, a consulting company based in California, examined a variety of data from sources such as the U.S. Census and Small Business Administration and chronicled survey responses from 1,500 companies to prepare a recent study. The results, in short: home-based operations account for more than half of all U.S. businesses and they’re shaping up to be a force to be reckoned with. Continued on p. 12

Making sure employees stay healthy not only benefits workers but is also a boon to a company’s balance sheet.

Gov. Paterson’s budget cuts, local affordable housing shortage, and more.

Green-living leaders weigh in with sustainability tips for the workplace.

Craig Thomas Pest Control, MyStudio Designs, Uptown Attic, Wallkill Valley Land Trust.

257 MAIN ST. NEW PALTZ, NY 12561 P 845 255 0243 F 845 255 5189 E INFO@NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG WWW.NEWPALTZCHAMBER.ORG

.com

The price of energy efficient lighting has been

SHAT TERED Rebates from Central Hudson cover up to 70 percent of the cost of efficient lighting equipment.

Call us at (800) 515-5353 to plan a lighting retrofit for your business.

Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation

Letter from JOYCE MINARD

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NATIONAL REGISTERED PROPERTIES

The glass may be half-empty or it may be half-full, but as we plan for the future we must also consider the size of the glass itself.

Michael Gold / The Corporate Image

inter is a time of beginnings and endings, when we consider the year that’s past and prepare for the year ahead. Preparing for the future means understanding the future of your business, assessing the tools you will need to achieve success, learning from the challenges you have faced, and ensuring you will have the resources required to meet the challenges of tomorrow. Putting one year to bed and embarking upon a new one provides an opportunity to hold both up together, to reflect upon and incorporate lessons learned into plans for next year’s success. The media has done a terrific job of reminding us every day that the business landscape has changed, perhaps irreversibly, as a result of difficult economic times. In fact, the phrase “in these difficult economic times” returns more than 17 million Google results, a few of which link to New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce publications. This catch-all phrase, which each of us can use accurately and honestly in explanation or defense of business decisions, begins to lose its meaning as it becomes increasingly apparent that “these difficult economic times” are part of our modern reality, requiring a rational approach. The glass may be half-empty or it may be halffull, but as we plan for the future we must also consider the size of the glass itself. The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce is using the short days and long nights of the winter season to assess its goals and ensure that it is serving its mission. Our mission statement is: The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce is organized for the purpose of advancing the business, industrial, agricultural and civic interests of New Paltz and the surrounding areas, and to promote integrity and good faith among all segments of the community; to encourage just and equitable principles in business; to acquire, preserve and distribute industrial, commercial and civic statistics and information of value; and to assist in representing New Paltz and the surrounding areas

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in the considerations and decisions of local, state and national agencies to make our area a better place to live and make a living. This mission defines the size of our glass and informs our planning efforts to fill it up. As always, we want to hear from you. We’re proud to serve the Hudson Valley business community, and want to know what membership in the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce means to you. We know that we cannot do all that we do without your support; we need to know your expectations and how we can help you keep your glass full to the brim. Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time with your questions and concerns, or to simply keep us in the loop on what’s new with your business. We look forward to serving you in 2010..

LoCated in the wine CeLLar of the depuy CanaL house reservations requested for a tabLe upstairs in one of our four romantiC firepLaCe rooms

Route 213, High Falls 845-687-7777 www.depuycanalhouse.com

Best,

40TH ANNIVERSARY

Joyce M. Minard President

1969 - 2009 REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2010

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS A&G Custom Made Furniture 4747 Route 209 Accord, NY 12404 (845) 626-0063 / fax (845) 626-3940 Contact: Alex Kambouris Email: AnGCustom@aol.com Website: www.agcustommade.com Category: Kitchen and Bath Specialist, Woodworking-Custom Design

Accord Plaza Feeds & Needs 4739 Route 209 Accord, NY 12404 (845) 626-7675 / fax (845) 626-4817 Contact: Bob Johnson Email: AccordPlazaFeeds@gmail.com Category: Pet Supplies

Androgyny House of Design/Gallery 5 Mulberry Street New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 256-0620 Contact: Sylvia Zuniga Email: androgyny2000@aol.com Category: Art Galleries, Hair Designer

Bare Furniture 4737 Route 209 Accord, NY 12404 (845) 626-0061 / fax (845) 626-0067 Email: BareFurniture@aol.com Website: www.BareFurnitureNY.com Category: Furniture-Unfinished, Kitchen and Bath Specialist

Center for International Programs— SUNY New Paltz 1 Hawk Drive New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 257-2903 / fax (845) 257-6903 Contact: Jeff Pollard Email: pollardj@newpaltz.edu Website: www.newpaltz.edu/iib Category: Educational Institutions

Coast to Coast Support 264 State Route 32 South New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-8744 / fax (845) 255-8744 Contact: Deb Albright Email: debc2c@live.com Website: www.c2cppm.com Category: Property Management & Maintenance

Darmstadt Overhead Doors 168 Cornell Street Kingston, NY 12401 (845) 331-0191 / fax (845) 331-0786 Contact: Ken Darmstadt Email: Ken@DarmstadtOverheadDoors.com Category: Contractors—Home Improvement 4

Deegan-Sanglyn Commercial Real Estate 325 Albany Avenue Kingston, NY 12401-3814 (845) 334-9700 / fax (845) 334-9100 Contact: David Kanney Email: David@DeeganSanglyn.com Website: www.DeeganSanglyn.com Category: Real Estate/Commercial

ED/M Strategic Solutions Plattekill, NY 12568 (914) 805-2554 Contact: Frank Ruggiero Email: Frank@EDMStrategic.com Website: www.edmstrategic.com Category: Consultant—Public Sector

Gaby’s Café 150 Canal Street Ellenville, NY 12428 (845) 210-1040 / fax (845) 210-1098 Email: Gabys.Cafe@yahoo.com Website: www.gabyscafe.com Category: Catering, Restaurant

Genesis Restaurant & Diner 401 Main Street New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-5075 / fax (845) 255-1420 Contact: Johnny & Jenny Gramatitos Website: www.GenesisRestaurantDiner.com Category: Restaurants

Gomen-Kudasai 215 Main Street New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-8811 Contact: Youko Yamamoto E-mail: gomenkudasainy@gmail.com Website: www.GomanKudasai.com Category: Restaurants

Hoover Architecture, PLLC PO Box 367 Gardiner, NY 12525 (845) 598-4762 Contact: Kimberly Hoover, AIA E-mail: kim@hoovarch.com Website: www.hooverarchitecture.com Category: Architecture

Kingston Nissan 140 Route 28 Kingston, NY 12401 (845) 338-3100 / fax (845) 338-1638 Email: tomg@kingstonnissan.net Website: www.KingstonNissan.net Category: Automobile Sales/Service

Mountain Skills Climbing Guides New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 853-5450 Contact: Doug Ferguson E-mail: dougamferguson@gmail.com Website: www.mountainskills.biz Category: Rock Climbing/Ice Climbing

Muddy Cup Coffee House 58 Main Street New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-5803 Contact: Josh Lown E-mail: jmlprecision@gmail.com, Website: www.muddycup.com Category: Coffee Houses

MyStudio 1 Hawk Hill Road New Paltz, NY 12561 (914) 204-4364 Contact: Shellie Pomeroy E-mail: shelliepom@hotmail.com Website: www.mystudiodesigns.com Category: Graphic Design, Sustainable Graphic Design

New Paltz Hostel 145 Main Street New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-6676 / fax (845) 255-6676 Contact: Andy Brooke E-mail: newpaltzhostel@yahoo.com Website: www.newpaltzhostel.com Category: Hotels/Resorts, Motels, Student Housing

New York State Department of Labor 601 Development Court Kingston, NY 12401 (845) 331-8920x3005 Contact: Madelene Knaggs Email: madelene.knaggs@labor.state.ny.us Website: www.labor.state.ny.us Category: Human Resources

Padgett Business Services 3743 US Route 9W/PO Box 344 Highland, NY 12528 (845) 452-3361 /fax (845) 425-3375 Contact: Shawn Shaughnessy E-mail: s_shaughnessy@smallbizpros.com Website: www.smallbizpros.com/s_shaughnessy Category: Tax Preparation

The Woods Retreat 28 Frankel Road Accord, NY 12404 (845) 658-9330 / fax (845) 658-9330 Contact: Donna Calcavecchio E-mail: donna@dmcdesign.net Category: Bed and Breakfasts, Cottages

Windham Mountain Windham, NY 12496 (518) 734-4300 / fax (518) 734-3045 Contact: Mike Pickett E-mail: mpickett@windhammountain.com Website: www.windhammountain.com Category: Outdoor Recreation

Members who joined as of November 15.

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CONTENTS

22 21

14 21

Domestic Product Enter the Era of Home-Based Business The home office is no longer considered strictly the domain of mom-and-pop operations. “Homepreneurs” are emerging as a potent force in the economy.

Wellness in the Workplace The Role of Employer-Supported Programs Making sure employees stay healthy not only benefits workers but is also a boon to a company’s balance sheet. According to a 2006 study, employee lifestyle choices accounted for almost 90 percent of health care costs. An inventory of wellness possibilities for employers.

Bottom Line Legislation & News Affecting Your Business Facing a budget deficit over $4 billion, Gov. Paterson tries to force lawmakers to pass a series of cuts; a breakdown of stipends New York State lawmakers receive for showing up to work; the Nation Association of Business Economists predict that job losses will bottom out in early 2010; a recent study notes a significant shortage of affordable housing for workers in the Hudson Valley.

Establishing an Eco-Office Protect the Health of the Environment and Your Employees Local green-living leaders weigh in with sustainability suggestions, from energy audits and large-scale infrastructure improvements (think solar panels) to simple fixes, like green cleaning products and telecommuting.

Member Profiles: Sustainable Businesses Regional Report checks in with some Chamber members who are doing their part to make their corner of the marketplace eco-friendly: Christie Ferguson of Wallkill Valley Land Trust, Craig Thomas of Craig Thomas Pest Control, Jodi Whitehead of Uptown Attic, and Shellie Pomeroy of MyStudio Designs.

Recent Chamber Events

Upcoming Events

Member Updates

Member Renewals

Membership Matters

Creating Wellness for Individuals & Businesses * Fun with Food! * Nutrition Counseling * Successful Weight Loss Programs * Corporate Wellness * Wellness Winner Health FairsTM * Group Classes * Professional Writing * Product Representation & Health Research

www.Nutrition-wise.com VKoenig@Nutrition-wise.com 7 Innis Avenue New Paltz, NY 12561 845.255.2398

September After-Hours Mixer at Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits

REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2009

NPRCoC BOARD AND STAFF Board Officers

2010 CORPORATE PARTNERS

CHAIR Ernie VanDeMark Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp.

LEADING PARTNER

Chris Drouin Beyond Wealth Management ND 2 VICE CHAIR Craig Shankles PDQ Printing and Graphics TREASURER Mindi Haynes Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell, LLP, CPAs FINANCIAL ADVISOR Jerry Luke Fox Hill B&B

Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp.

1 ST VICE CHAIR

LEGAL COUNSEL

Paul O’Neill Attorney at Law

Board of Directors

Frank Curcio Helen Gutfreund LMT Bodymind Massage Therapy Constance Harkin Ulster Savings Richard Heyl de Ortiz Historic Huguenot Street Kay Hoiby Free Fall Express/dba: Blue Sky Ranch Dr. David Ness Performance Sports and Wellness Kathleen Packard KathodeRay Media Diane Reeder The Queens Galley Shelley Turk Rocking Horse Ranch Susan Van De Bogart St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital Helise Winters SUNY New Paltz (CRREO) EMERITUS MEMBERS

Robert Leduc Mohonk Mountain House Rick Lewis Riverside Bank Margaret McDowell Bermac Home Aides, Inc. Ofc. Scott Schaffrick New Paltz Police Department Sue VanVoorhis M&T Bank Chamber Staff

Joyce Minard President Christine Crawfis Director of Marketing & Communications Cathy Hyland Membership Director Lucy Paradies Assistant Director of Finance & Membership Janet Nurre Communications & Programs Administrator Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz Board Members CHAIR

Kathy Ferrusi Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union

SECRETARY Joyce Minard New Paltz Regional Chamber

of Commerce TREASURER Sue VanVoorhis M&T Bank BOARD MEMBER Sally Cross SUNY New Paltz Foundation BOARD MEMBER Teresa Thompson Main Street Bistro 6

ASSOCIATE PARTNER

Brinckerhoff and Neuville Insurance Group SUPPORTING PARTNERS

Health Quest KIC Chemicals, Inc. Ulster Savings Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell LLP, CPAs The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce is a distinguished member of:

American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) Chamber Alliance of New York State (CANYS) The Business Council of New York State, Inc. (BCNYS) Mid-Hudson Pattern for Progress Southern Ulster Alliance Business Marketing Association—Hudson Valley Chapter New York’s Tech Valley Chamber Coalition Hudson Valley Regional Coalition (One Valley—One Voice) 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. The newly formed Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz aids and augments the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce’s current slate of successful educational programs. The Foundation envisions a comprehensive program of educational activities and scholarships, all geared toward educating and supporting the community. Regional Report is published quarterly by the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce. Information in this publication was carefully compiled to ensure maximum accuracy. 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. @2010 New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written permission of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce and Luminary Publishing is strictly prohibited.

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Photo Credits: 1,4,5 Images provided by NPRCoC; 2,3 Michael Gold/The Corporate Image

RECENT CHAMBER EVENTS 1

1 Attendees of the December Business Luncheon enjoy a gourmet meal at Ship Lantern Inn. 2 Joyce Minard of NPRCoC, Jeri Luke of Fox Hill B&B and Sue VanDeBogart of St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital “ooh” and “aah” over the menu at the Genesis Restaurant & Diner ribbon cutting. 3 Neighbors, friends, and NPRCoC board and staff gather to celebrate the grand opening of Performance Sports and Wellness. 4 Cathy Hyland of NPRCoC and Rosalyn Cherry of Organized & Clutter Free enjoy some time with Sammy the Bird at the October After-Hours Mixer, held at Ireland Corners Automotive Group. 5 Jason Crozier of September After-Hours Mixer host Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits prepares to pour a sample. REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2009

Teresa Horgan

UPCOMING EVENTS SAVE THE DATE FRIDAY, APRIL 24 4th Annual Gathering: Casino Night @ Mohonk Mountain House Our once-a-year members-only party featuring overwhelming hors d’oeuvres, an open bar, entertainment and lots & lots of games of chance—and The Great Raffle, of course! Sponsorship opportunities now available. Call 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org.

Tuesday, January 12

After-Hours Mixer @ Nu-Cavu, Wallkill Kick off a new year of networking at one of the region’s most exciting restaurants! Serving up Wallkill’s finest Italian fare with exciting dishes and unique ambiance, Nu-Cavu’s sensational menu and attention to detail create a truly enjoyable dining experience. Time: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Place: Nu-Cavu, 857 Plains Road, Wallkill Cost: Complimentary to members, $5 nonmembers Wednesday, January 20

Business Luncheon @ The Gold Fox, Gardiner, featuring Barry Henck of Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corp. Learn more about the Business Energy SavingsCentral program from Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation’s Barry Henck. The program for non-residential customers of Central Hudson with electric demand of less than 100 kilowatts— businesses, local governments, not-for-profits, private institutions, public and private schools, colleges and health care facilities— offers a free energy audit and a report detailing where efficiency measures can produce the most savings, the cost of installing each measure, the expected payback period for each installation, and rebates on up to 70% of the equipment cost of a qualified efficiency upgrade. Sponsor: MetroPool 8

Time: 12:00 noon – 1:30 p.m. Place: The Gold Fox Restaurant, 600 State Route 208, Gardiner Cost: Complimentary to Corporate Partners, $18 for members, $25 non-members Friday, January 29

Winter Business Card Exchange @ Wireless Zone, New Paltz Our winter business card exchange is a fantastic way to get going on a cold morning! This ultimate networking event for both new and long-standing Chamber members is always well-attended. Attendees are encouraged to bring an ample supply of business cards. Time: 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. Place: Wireless Zone, 83 N. Chestnut Street, New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to members, $5 nonmembers Wednesday, February 17

Business Luncheon @ the Terrace Restaurant, New Paltz, featuring Margaret Moree, Business Council of New York In the confusion of an often divisive battle over changes to the American health care system it can be difficult as citizens and members of the business community to get all the facts. At this topical luncheon, BCNY’s Margaret Moree tackles business issues surrounding health care reform. Sponsor: Ulster Savings Time: 12:00 noon – 1:30 p.m. Place: The Terrace Restaurant, SUNY New

Paltz campus, New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to Corporate Partners, $18 for members, $25 non-members Thursday, February 25

After-Hours Mixer & Pot-OGold Raffle Drawing @ Rocking Horse Ranch, Highland Do you have the $10,000 ticket? Find out while making new contacts and nurturing old ones at our February after-hours mixer! Delicious hors d’oeuvres will round out an exciting evening of networking, prize drawing and fun! Pot-O-Gold raffle tickets are $100 and may be purchased from any NPRCoC board member or at the Chamber office. Tickets may also be purchased during the first hour of the mixer. For more information, visit www.newpaltzchamber.org. Time: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Place: Rocking Horse Ranch, 600 Route 44/55, Highland Cost: Complimentary to members, $5 nonmembers Thursday, march 4

2nd Annual Progressive Dinner Warm up a chilly night as you amble among fabulous High Falls restaurants—including the Depuy Canal House and the High Falls Café—enjoying multiple courses of a sumptuous meal in support of Community Education Outreach. For more information, visit www.newpaltzchamber.org. Time: 5:30 – 9 p.m. Place: Restaurants in High Falls Cost: $75 per person; only 100 tickets sold For more details. see page 14.

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Tuesday, March 9

After-Hours Mixer @ Mark Gruber Gallery, New Paltz Invigorate your business with some latewinter networking—and check out the Mark Gruber Gallery—with our March after-hours mixer! Since 1976, the Mark Gruber Gallery’s carefully curated shows featuring original oils, pastels, watercolors and large format photography have bridged the traditional themes of the Hudson River School with the more fluid contemporary look of today. Time: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Place: Mark Gruber Gallery, New Paltz Plaza, New Paltz Cost: Complimentary for members, $5 nonmembers Wednesday, March 17

Business Luncheon @ Mohonk Mountain House, “Working Well” Workplace Wellness Challenge Kick-Off Event Join New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce, MVP and Brinckerhoff and Neuville’s workplace wellness challenge. More information coming soon! Sponsor: MVP and Brinckerhoff and Neuville Insurance Group, Inc. Time: 12:00 noon – 1:30 p.m. Place: Mohonk Mountain House, 1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to Corporate Partners, $18 for members, $25 non-members

Kimlin Propane

Wednesday, March 24

Professional Development Series Panel Discussion I, “Financing Issues for Small Businesses” @ SUNY New Paltz School of Business Learn more about financing issues faced by small businesses at this first panel discussion in the 2010 Professional Development Series. Panelists include Sue VanVoorhis, M&T Bank, Deborah Bailey Browne, CPA and David Scott, Pro Printers. Sponsor: Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz Time: 9:00 – 11:00 am Place: van den Berg Hall, room 110 SUNY New Paltz School of Business, New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to Chamber members; $15 non-members RESERVATIONS REQUIRED Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org

(845) 255-7324

Gardiner, NY Serving Ulster, Dutchess, and beyond

Our Friendly Service Is REAL! REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2010

A DIFFERENT KIND OF HEALTHY BUSINESS

WELLNESS IN THE WORKPLACE The Role of Employer-Supported Programs By Kelley Granger

ver the past couple of years, the Department of Health and Human Services and the American Institute for Preventative Medicine researched health issues affecting the average American worker. Out of every 100 employees, they found that 25 will have cardiovascular disease, 12 will be asthmatic, and 38 will be overweight. Forty-four will suffer from stress, 31 will use alcohol excessively, and 21 will smoke. Unless an area’s demographics were significantly different from the national average, this is the picture employers are likely to see among their staff members. Many employers provide health insurance but may not feel an outright obligation to intervene on behalf of the health and wellness of their employees otherwise. After all, it can get complicated—as a boss, how do you tactfully mention to someone on your team that he or she should lose weight, or eat healthier food? What business is it of yours what lifestyle they choose? In reality, it may have a lot to do with your business and the cost of national health care in general. Employee lifestyle choices account for 87.5 percent of health care claims, a 2006 study declared. A report 10

published last year by Trust for America’s Health, a health advocacy organization based in Washington, D.C., explained that a small investment in preventative wellness measures—just $10 per person, per year, in proven community-based programs—could save the country more than $16 billion annually after five years of implementation, with more than $9 billion of that being private payer savings. The Congressional Budget Office disagrees—director Douglas W. Elmendorf stated in a letter to the U.S. House of Representatives’ Subcommittee on Health that “researchers who have examined the effects of preventive care generally find that the added costs of widespread use of preventive services tend to exceed the savings from averted illness.” Even if that’s the case, research shows other benefits to employers, including increases in employee morale, productivity, and overall health as well as decreases in absenteeism, accidents on the job, and insurance premiums.

The Wellness Wave “I see this as not just the next wave of healthcare and wellness but the wave,” says Vicki Koenig,

MS, RD, CDN, a registered dietician who does individual and corporate nutrition and wellness programs through Nutrition-Wise in New Paltz. “It’s a place where it needs to be.” Koenig offers corporate clients a program that includes a group presentation followed by mini health assessments that include taking the employee’s blood pressure, doing a body fat measurement and a body mass index, and making an evaluation of the risk for diabetes. The assessment takes 15 minutes and can be done in a private setting, and each employee leaves with a report that details their state of health compared to established norms. “If you can create a situation and a program that offers wellness, you have a win-win situation,” Koenig says. “An employer gets a staff that’s healthier, with increased productivity, and the employee feels valued.” While Koenig says that wellness programs like hers have been common at large companies in metropolitan areas, the state of the economy and subsequent budget cutting took a toll on the momentum of the trend, especially for small businesses. “In a troubled economy, that can be the first thing that may be cut,” Koenig says. Smaller businesses and those who are on a budget can try teaming

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BREAKING DOWN THE BILL

Margaret Moree Talks Health Care Reform With

2,000 pages in the health care reform bill, it can be difficult to grasp the total impact it will have on us as citizens and as business owners. At a business luncheon at SUNY New Paltz in February, Margaret Moree of the Business Council of New York will address some of the issues that the Council feels affect the business community most. up with another company to host a program, something that two potential nonprofit clients of Koenig are considering. The fact is the more people that participate in programs like these, and the healthier the community becomes, the less it costs to insure the residents of that area. Jillian MacBrien, a senior account manager with MVP Healthcare in Fishkill explains that small group rates are based on the zip code as a community rate. “What MVP does, and what all the other carriers in the area do,” she says, “is look at the historical data from that zip code population and then the rates are based on the claims in that area.” So affecting the health of the local population is one way to bring insurance costs down in an environment where most businesses are considered “small group,” with less than 50 employees eligible for insurance coverage. Based on MVP’s large group statistics (companies of 50 or more insurance-eligible employees with rates based on their own claim history), insurance premiums have been shown to decrease after three to five years of implementing a wellness program on a consistent basis.

Work Well, Live Well The New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce is working on an initiative with MVP which will extend some benefit to all of its membership, regardless of if you have MVP insurance coverage or not. The program, Work Well, Live Well, will offer a variety of support areas, including personal health awareness, weight loss, smoking cessation, and mental wellness. MacBrien calls the program an “informational toolbox” that offers resources

for employers to provide to staff, from healthy living e-mail blasts to informational tent cards that can be placed on lunchroom tables. For Chamber members that are part of MVP’s insurance network, they can access a more comprehensive program that includes one-on-one coaching and monetary rewards. Through the WellStyle Extras program, participants earn $1 for every point they accumulate doing wellness tasks—for example, filling out an online health risk assessment or speaking with a lifestyle coach once a week about weight loss, tobacco, and other healthy living goals. MacBrien says MVP found that monetary rewards offered the most incentive for people to follow through with a wellness program, and up to $300 can be earned and redeemed through WellStyle Extras in the form of reward checks or gift cards for retailers or restaurants. Similarly, IBM ran financially motivated health and fitness courses for its employees between 2004 and 2008, and research has shown the company saved $80 million in reduced health insurance claims. The ability to reduce claims, potentially lower premiums, and enhance quality of life in and out of work is a strong case for wellness programs, and most of the country agrees—in November, a public opinion survey found that 71 percent of Americans favored an increased investment in preventative programs and that disease prevention was regarded as one of the most important parts of health care reform legislation. For ideas on how to start a wellness initiative in your workplace for low or no cost, visit the resource section of the Small Business Wellness Initiative website, www.sbwi.org.

“The topic of the federal health care reform has consumed Congress, it’s consumed a lot of ink and nightly news, and part of the conversation that I hope to be having with members of the New Paltz Regional Chamber really focuses around some of the things that may or may not have gotten into the press,” Moree says. “I really want to try to drill down on whether or not these bills offer the kind of reform that business interests have been looking for and look to our federal representatives to bring home.” “While there’s been a lot of conversation

around things like a public option or rationing of care, Moree says there’s been less of a conversation about provisions in the House and Senate bills that deal with insurance reform. “For many members of the business community, it’s a struggle to provide employer sponsored health coverage to their employees, and it’s particularly true for small and medium-sized companies that are in the community-rated market in New York State,” she says. “So we’re very interested in making sure that people are at least aware of what is and is not in those bills.” Join Moree and other local business owners on February 17 at the Terrace Restaurant, located on the SUNY New Paltz campus, from noon to 1:30 p.m. Reserve your place at the function by calling 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org.

REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2010

DOMESTIC PRODUCT continued from front cover A Growing Trend The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics first started recording information about the at-home workforce in 1985, when it attempted to gauge the size of the sector and determine how many hours per week people spent working from home. At the time, just 8.4 million people worked at home for eight or more hours during the week. By 1990, the Bureau had refined their research even more, releasing a study that showed the typical U.S. home worker as self-employed, white, and female. Nonstandard working hours from a rural location seemed to be the norm, and servicerelated occupations were most common. By 2004, after the Internet and its associated telecommuting potential changed the business landscape, work-at-home numbers grew to 20.7 million people, and two thirds of the seven million that reported themselves as self-employed had a home-based business. By this time, the statistics showed the use of the computer had outpaced the use of the telephone when it came to homebased communications. Over the years, the continued improvements in broadband technology and wireless services, as well as home office equipment, have further facilitated the expansion of the movement. Now the Emergent Research study is showing the magnitude of this sector’s contribution to the economy—more than six million home businesses generate at least 50 percent of the owner’s household income, with 35 percent of businesses bringing in more than $125,000 in annual revenue. Eight percent of them gross more than $500,000 annually. The diversity of local home-based businesses shows the breadth of the trend—around New Paltz, every industry from graphic design to nutrition, art, home organizing, and electrical work represents a home-based business. A variety of factors are making home-based businesses the model of choice for many, particularly in a shaky economy.

Raison d’être The home-based business sector is exploding for a number of reasons, first and foremost being advances in technology. The Internet 12

has forever changed the way business is done and has given instant access to a variety of communication and networking tools. “Right now, with the technology tools available, even if I were to have a physical office to go to I’d probably be collaborating with people

“Technology allows you to do something that once upon a time it took a whole roomful of people to do.” —Valerie Mehl via e-mail, conference calls, Net meetings, and things like that,” says Christina Bark, a home-based business consultant. “We probably wouldn’t be in the same location. It tends to be more cost effective for me to spend money on things like technology that will foster collaboration with people in various locations versus having office space.” Over the years, the increasing ability to access efficient office equipment at home has also streamlined the work process and made it more feasible to complete projects at home with minimal personnel. Valerie and Jeff Mehl rely on these tools to facilitate their day-to-day work at Daybreak Virtual Staffing, which provides the services of a virtual office staff and is managed from their home in Esopus. “Technology allows you to do something that once upon a time it took a whole roomful of people to do,” says Valerie Mehl. Technology has not been the only driver, though. Limiting overhead costs is among the top reasons that people either start from home or move their business there, especially in a recession. The decreased cost of operation is something that can make a competitive difference, especially if those savings can be passed on to the consumer.

Plus, tax benefits abound—a 2006 study by the Small Business Association even showed that home-based businesses that took a home business deduction gain a higher return on gross revenues compared with businesses that claim rent for a commercial space. For Eija Lindsey, an artist and jewelry maker who recently launched Eija Lindsey Studio from her house in New Paltz, cost is the only reason she keeps her studio there. “I don’t have a steady paycheck yet,” she says. “I might be spending 40 to 60 hours in the studio, and might not make money that week…I wouldn’t be able to afford a studio outside of my house at this time, but that’s a plan for the future. That would be ideal. Having a studio space outside of the home would be nice when things are more settled and orders are coming in regularly.” Mehl also cites decreased operating cost as the number one reason the business is managed from home, but adds that there are other benefits too, particularly for employees. At Daybreak Virtual Staffing, employees act as off-site office staff for the company’s clients, taking calls, scheduling appointments, and doing other administrative or accounting tasks from their own home. Mehl says this saves them money on gas and time commuting, as well as giving them flexibility for family responsibilities. Part of the turn toward home-based business is a lifestyle choice and a shifting away from corporate America in favor of something that’s more flexible and personally rewarding. “With less security, lower benefits, and often long and inflexible work schedules, working for a large company simply isn’t as attractive as it used to be,” reads the Intuit Future of Small Business Report prepared by the nonprofit forecasting group Institute for the Future. “As a result, large-company employment has fallen steadily for several decades. Today, less than 40 percent of Americans work for companies with more than 1,000 employees.” Today, those that choose to work in a homebased business are likely to do so because they value freedom and want to pursue their passions rather than observe the ordinary nine-to-five grind.

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Erica Chase-Salerno, owner of Wyld Acres, a home-based prenatal energy counseling studio, thinks the freedom to do what brings her happiness is essential. “Just the sheer benefit of being able to do this work outweighs anything,” she says. “The biggest benefit [of my home business] doesn’t have to do with tax deductions. It’s really been just a joy, the joy that I’m able to impart and also experience around other people. And the networking, the chance to learn more, to go deeper, and to try new things.” For Shellie Pomeroy, who operates MyStudio graphic design at home in New Paltz, family is paramount—even while she’s running a successful business. “My main priority at this time is my family, so having a home-based business allows the flexibility to put 100 percent into the home, family, and business.” When her kids go to bed, Pomeroy says that’s when she dives into her workload. But the work-at-home option doesn’t come without its challenges.

A Home Divided Pomeroy, like many other parents who operate businesses from home, notes that it’s not always smooth sailing with children—or spouses—around. “When I do have a deadline and have to do work, together we have to find a balance,” she says of her kids, who are ages 10 and 11. “I have to explain to them that I’ve left and gone to work.” Lindsey of Eija Lindsey Studio encounters similar challenges with distractions— she lives with a three-year-old, a boyfriend, and a relative she cares for. “Working out of the house can be difficult, because it’s a constant distraction not to be in an office,” she says. “I’m constantly reminded of other things I have to be doing, like laundry or answering the other phone.” Finding a work-life balance is crucial to success. It starts with setting up an area that is solely used for workspace. Chris Drouin of Beyond Wealth Management spends about 25 percent of his time working out of a home office he’s put together. “Home life creeps into the office and the office creeps into home life,” he says. “You need to be clear with work hours and I think a big thing a lot of people mess up on is that they don’t create a proper office. You need a real copier, storage space for reference materials, and a proper

workspace. A corner desk in your living room doesn’t cut it.” Sometimes the line between home and business is even more difficult to define, particularly when it comes to securing the financing necessary for a home-based business to acquire equipment and other items that require a significant investment. It can be a tricky situation since the process often entails a home business owner putting his or her house up as collateral. “Banks are very cautious but they’re extra cautious today,” says Drouin, who will be moderating a discussion on financing for small businesses in March at SUNY New Paltz School of Business. Trying to do too much is another risk when operating a home-based business. Both Drouin and Bark recommend that business owners inventory what they are and are not capable of doing. “The older I get the more aware I am of where my competency ends and where another’s begins,” says Drouin. “Make sure you’re not out of the scope of your abilities.” For that reason, Bark keeps a log of how much time she spends fixing computer issues and other tasks not directly related to the work she’s paid for. This way, she can find out if it’s feasible for her to learn and attempt to fix things on her own or if it’s better to engage a professional to take care of things that aren’t in her skill set. If it’s administrative work that’s eating away a home business owner’s time, both Bark and Drouin recommend looking into a service like Daybreak Virtual Staffing, which provides personnel for back office tasks. Having someone available to answer the phone, particularly if the business provides contracted services like construction or electrician work, can be the difference between getting a deal

or having the opportunity slip by, says Mehl. She says all employees at Daybreak are trained to each client’s specific business and are able to make appointments and answer customer questions, among other things. Not only that, but “we can make a business look larger and more professional,” Mehl says. A professional virtual office staff can polish the appearance of a home-based business that may only have one overextended owner running the show.

Taking it Home Home-based businesses now employ 13 million people nationwide, which is more than all the venture-backed companies employ combined. Given the factors that are propelling the trend—advances in technology, society’s reaction to economic conditions, personal lifestyle choices—it’s likely to keep blossoming. As the late political economist and author Peter F. Drucker once said, “Innovation is the specific tool of entrepreneurs, the means by which they exploit change as an opportunity for a different business or a different service.” Whether it’s seeing a silver lining in layoffs and utilizing the opportunity to establish a startup at home or simply following a dream that might otherwise be unattainable, home-based businesses are paving the way for the enterprise of the future. The workshop “Financing Issues for Small Businesses,” sponsored by the Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz, will be held on March 24 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the SUNY New Paltz School of Business in van den Berg Hall, Room 110. Reservations are required, call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org. REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2010

EVENTS SPOTLIGHT

2ND ANNUAL PROGRESSIVE DINNER

arm up a chilly night as Education Outreach. Only 100 you amble among fabutickets will be sold for the lous High Falls restaurants— dinner, which will be held 2nd Annual Progressive Dinner including the Depuy Canal on Thursday, March 4, from Thursday, March 4, 2010 House and the High Falls Café—enjoying 5:30-9:00 p.m. For tickets, call 845-255-0243 or multiple courses of a sumptuous meal in supe-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org. Visit port of the Regional Chamber of Commerce www.newpaltzchamber.org for more inforFoundation at New Paltz’s Community mation.

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earn more about financing issues faced by small businesses at this first panel discussion in the 2010 Professional Development Series on March 24 from 9 to 11 a.m. at van den Berg Hall, room 110, SUNY New Paltz School of Business, New Paltz. Panelists include Sue VanVoorhis, M&T Bank, Deborah Bailey Browne, Bailey Browne & Pryba Network

Alliance, CPAs, and David Scott, Pro Printers. Chris Drouin of Beyond Wealth Management will moderate the discussion.Sponsored by Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz. Complimentary to Chamber memembers; $15 for non-members. Reservations are required, call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@ newpaltzchamber.org.

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ickets are now on sale for the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce $10,000 Pot-O-Gold Raffle. In addition to the $10,000 first prize, ten $100 second prizes and ten $50 third prizes will be announced at the Chamber’s February AfterHours Mixer, Thursday, February 25, 2009. The Mixer will be held at Rocking Horse Ranch, 600 Route 44/55, Highland, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Winners will be announced at 7:00 p.m. PotO-Gold Raffle tickets are $100 each and may be purchased from any New Paltz Regional

Chamber of Commerce board member. Tickets will also be for sale during the first hour of the mixer. For more information, call the Chamber at 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org.

Proceeds of the Pot-O-Gold raffle support the programs, services and initiatives of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce, advancing Hudson Valley business, industrial, agricultural and civic interests for more than a century.

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MEMBER UPDATES GORDON FIRE EQUIPMENT GOES SOLAR Gordon Fire Equipment is now solarpowered. The new 5 kilowatt photovoltaic system was initiated on July 27 and provides nearly 100% of Gordon Fire Equipment’s electricity needs. In the last year, they also started an extensive recycling program, and most paper products have recycled content. For more information, call 845-255-5189. HARVEST MOON GOLF OUTING A SUCCESS The Arts Community’s first annual Harvest Moon Golf Tournament at the New Paltz Golf Course, raising funds for the “A Home for the Arts” project, was a success. The Arts Community has recently begun to offer classes for senior citizens at the New Paltz Community Center, and anticipates offering after-school programs soon. Sponsors and donors included Dedrick’s Pharmacy & Gifts, Bright Beginnings Preschool, Shapers of New Paltz, Tom’s Repair Shop, Ulster Savings Bank, P & G’s Restaurant, Apple Greens Golf Course, Turtle Creek at Garden Cathay and Wireless Zone. NEW TASTING MANAGER AT WHITECLIFF Stop into Whitecliff Vineyard and Winery at 331 McKinstry Rd., Gardiner and help welcome new Tasting Room Manager Colleen Todd. She will fit right in with Whitecliff’’s long tradition of friendly, knowledgeable people to help with your tasting. For more information, visit www. whitecliffwine.com or call 845-255-4613. ART EXHIBITS AT ULSTER SAVINGS Ulster Savings Bank featured the wonderful quilts of local artist Dolly Wodin

in its Gardiner branch in the months of September, October, and November and showcased the photography of Robert Goldwitz in the months of November and December. For more information on exhibits at the Ulster Savings Bank Gardiner branch, call 845-255-4262. ULSTER SAVINGS FOUNDATION DONATES TO MOHONK PRESERVE The Ulster Savings Charitable Foundation recently donated $7,500 to the Mohonk Preserve, to be used to enhance the Preserve’s “Seniors Project,” a multi-tiered initiative designed to improve seniors’ access to and interactivity with the Preserve and its senior-themed programs. Formed by Ulster Savings Bank in 2003, the Foundation assists the local community in areas of housing, economic development, education, and health and human services. ULSTER-GREENE ARC CELEBRATES 60 YEARS The Ulster-Greene ARC chapter of NYSARC, Inc., the largest parent-based organization in the nation serving people who have developmental disabilities, participated in a celebration walk and hosted two local barbecues in recognition of the organization’s 60th anniversary. For more information, visit www.ugarc.org. NEW HORIZONS ASSET MANAGAEMENT GROUP HONORED For the second consecutive year, New Horizons Asset Management Group, LLC has been selected for the 2009 Best of Newburgh Award in the Financial Advisory Services category by the U.S. Local Business Association. Nationwide, only 1.4% of 2008 award recipients qualified as 2009 award winners. For more information, call 845-567- 3930.

HOW TO SUBMIT ubmit items of general public S interest; no commercial sales announcements, rates, prices, etc. Items must be received no later than the 15th of November, February, 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, phone number, contact name, and your newsbrief (100-word maximum) to the Chamber office at info@newpaltzchamber.org or 845-255-5189.

JUAN WILLIAMS LECTURE AT OAKWOOD FRIENDS SCHOOL Distinguished alumnus, Juan Williams, Class of 1972, was the guest speaker for The Gillespie Forum Lecture hosted by Oakwood Friends School in October. Juan Williams is a multi-faceted TV panelist, reporter, author and political analyst. Known for his regular contacts with Washington insiders, Williams has interviewed Ronald Reagan and every President since. Williams’ lecture was titled “From King to Obama.” For more information, call 845-462-4200. STAFF ADDITIONS AT GORDON FIRE EQUIPMENT Gordon Fire Equipment welcomes Anthony Baxter of Gardiner as new shop and service technician, and Janet N. Hayton of Milton as Operations Assistant. To continue our tradition of training, Anthony and Janet have completed their Fire Extinguisher Service and DOT certifications. Additionally, Michael Hein, Daniel Oakley and Steve Zipkin attended a two day training seminar on Advanced Kitchen Fire Protection. For more information, call 845-255-5189. REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2010

MEMBER UPDATES DAY OF MUSIC AT OAKWOOD FRIENDS SCHOOL Annie Patterson & Peter Blood performed at Oakwood Friends School in October as part of Oakwood’s Day of Music. As creators of Rise Up Singing, Annie and Peter have been collecting songs and leading sing-alongs for over 20 years to encourage people to share and celebrate their lives and experiences through song. The Day of Music focused on Quaker history, ideas and testimonies. For more information, call 845-462-4200. METROPOOL BEST WORKPLACE FOR COMMUTERS MetroPool, Inc. was designated as one of the Best Workplaces for Commuters for meeting the EPA’s and U.S. DOT’s national standard of excellence in commuter benefits. For more information, visit www.bestworkplaces.org or www.metropool.com.

moved to its current site in Poughkeepsie in 1920. Ruth Craig’s career at Oakwood spanned 35 years as teacher, vice-principal, librarian and dorm parent. For more information, call 845-462-4200. TYRONE DAVIS PROMOTED AT ARNOFF mOVING & STORAGE Arnoff Moving & Storage is pleased to announce the promotion of Tyrone Davis to Commercial & Industrial Relocation Supervisor. Tyrone is a role model for the organization, showing self-initiative and commitment in growing with the company and working very hard to achieve this position, including completion of Supervisor/Leadership courses at Dutchess Community College. WILL HUNTING COMPLETES CONSULTANCY CERTIFICATION

Michael Turturro, CPA of Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell, LLP, CPAs was the keynote speaker for the SUNY New Paltz Business Consortium, where he spoke about tough economic times, how difficult it may be for graduating students to find a job right away, and stressed the importance of community involvement.

Will Hunting, Arnoff Moving & Storage Business Development Manager, has successfully completed the Certified Office & Industrial Consultant course provided by the American Moving & Storage Association, making Will the only Certified Office & Industrial Relocation Consultant in the Hudson Valley. Will’s efforts to reach this goal will highly benefit Arnoff’s customers and the services they require to relocate their business smoothly while continuing to operate their businesses throughout the relocation process. For more information, call 845-471-1504.

RUTH E. CRAIG CELEBRATED AT OAKWOOD FRIENDS SCHOOL

13TH ANNUAL KIDS DAY AT ULSTER SAVINGS

This fall, Oakwood Friends School celebrated the life of alumna Ruth E. Craig, class of 1909. Ruth Craig graduated from Oakwood Seminary in Union Springs in 1909, continued her education at Oneonta State Normal School and started her teaching career in East Orange, New Jersey, returning to Oakwood when the school

Ulster Savings Bank hosted its 13th Annual Kids Day Celebration, an exciting day of safe Halloween fun, at the 226 Main Street, New Paltz branch. The event included face and pumpkin painting, a costume contest, Child Safety ID program and “Laugh-A-Lot” the Clown. For more information, call 845-255-5470.

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STARS OF THE MONTH AT SLCH St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital announces Toni Crisci, RN, of Newburgh as its September Star of the Month and Aaron Kramer of Highland as its October Star of the Month. Known for leadership and compassion, Crisci is a 19-year employee who works at the Kaplan Family Center for Emergency Medicine at the Newburgh Campus; Kramer is a programmer/ analyst with the Information Technology Department at SLCH’s Newburgh campus and is known for his good nature and technical expertise.

ULSTER SAVINGS NAMED TOP PERFORMER Ulster Savings Bank is pleased to announce that it was chosen as one of PrimeVest Financial Services’ top performers in 2008 at PrimeVest’s National Planning Conference held in Minneapolis, Minn. PrimeVest Financial Services is a leading broker-dealer that serves financial institutions exclusively. For more information, call 845-338-6322.

CONFERENCE ROOM AVAILABLE AT WATER STREET MARKET Dennis Chaissan of Exit Realty Services has a conference room seating 10 to 12 people available for sublease at the Water Street Market on Main Street in New Paltz. For pricing, availability and scheduling, call 845-255-4663.

LITTMAN GIFT FOR SLCH CANCER CENTER At the St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital Gala, Gene, Elfie, David, and Connie Littman of Newburgh confirmed a major leadership gift for the hospital’s new cancer center, to be named The Littman

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Cancer Center. To join the Littman family and others supporting enhanced cancer care in our community, contact Sue Sullivan, Vice President, Development and Government Affairs, Executive Director, Foundation, at 845-568-2580.

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Pamela I. Anderson has joined Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson, Inc. as its new Chief Executive Officer. In her new role, Anderson will provide the vision and leadership to continue the integration of five legacy councils, covering seven counties throughout the lower Hudson Valley— Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester—into one high-capacity organization. For more information, call 914-747-3080 or visit www.girlscoutshh.org. WILLIAM KEARNEY OF VDDW WINS ORANGE COUNTY RISING STAR COMPETITION

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Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell, LLP, CPAs is proud to congratulate William Kearney, CPA on winning the Orange County’s Rising Star competition! William is a senior accountant working in VDDW’s Newburgh office. He has been with the firm for five years. SLCH NAMES DR. GURINDER “JUGGIE” MEHAR PHYSICIAN LEADER OF THE YEAR St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital has named Cornwall-based family practitioner Gurinder “Juggie” Mehar, MD its 2009 Physician Leader of the Year. The honor was bestowed October 20, at a reception in honor of Dr. Mehar’s outstanding service to the hospital and community. The hospital also paid tribute to Dr. Gerald Neri, a former Director of the SLCH Emergency Department and founder of MedExcel USA Inc., who lost his battle with cancer in May. REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2010

MEMBER UPDATES ANNNUAL THANKSGIVING FEAsT HELD AT BROOKSIDE SCHOOL Ulster-Greene ARC’s Brookside School held its annual Thanksgiving dinner on November 20. This annual traditional Thanksgiving feast brings together students, family members and neighbors, faculty, staff and friends to celebrate the many blessings we share throughout the year. The event is one of the most cherished and has grown in attendance each year. For more information, visit www. ugarc.org.

CRAIG THOMAS PEST CONTROL JOINS BEDBUGFREE NETWORK Craig Thomas Pest Control has become the first pest management firm in the Hudson Valley to be approved for bedbugFree membership, joining a network of companies across the nation committed to guidelines for safe and effective removal of bed bugs established by Bed Bug Central. All bedbugFree companies undergo a rigorous screening process overseen by research entomologists. Experts emphasize that public education and individuals educating themselves are an important process in bed bug prevention. For more information, visit www. callcraig.com.

CDHP RANKED TOP-RATED HEAlTH PLAN IN NEW YORK Underscoring its 25-year commitment to providing quality health care services at a reasonable cost, CDPHP was ranked as the top-rated health plan in New York State, according to the recently released U.S. News & World Report/NCQA America’s Best Health Insurance Plans 2009-10 . Five CDPHP plans were among the top 25 health plans in the nation encompassing commercial, 18

self-funded, and government programs populations across New York State. For more information, visit www.cdphp.com.

CORNWALL RADIATION ONCOLOGY SERVICES OPENS Cancer survivors, physicians, elected officials and other community members gathered in October to celebrate the opening of Cornwall Radiation Oncology Services (CROS), which brings advanced TomoTherapy cancer treatment technology to Orange County. The new center is located in the new $23 million Littman Cancer Center on the St. Luke Cornwall Hospital’s Cornwall campus. For more information, call 845-458-9000.

CLASSICS UNDER THE GUNKS CAR SHOW FUNDRAISER Nearly $8,450 in donations were recently presented to several local recipients in conjunction with the 2009 “Classics Under The Gunks” Car Show fundraiser. The donation ceremony was held at Ulster Savings Bank’s Gardiner branch. Ulster Savings Bank served as one of the sponsors of this year’s Car Show. For more information about the “Classics Under The Gunks” Car Show, please e-mail Dave Wingfield at davewing@ hughes.net or visit the show online at www.classicsunderthegunks.com.

ULSTER SAVINGS BANK HOSTS PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT The New Paltz Branch of Ulster Savings Bank hosted an opening reception for an art exhibit featuring the works of New Paltz photographer Joe Puglisi. The show will be available for viewing through Friday, January 15, 2010. For additional details, please call 845-255-5470.

ULSTER SAVINGS GIFT OF $150,000 TO ULSTER SAVINGS CHARITABLE FOUNDATION Ulster Savings Bank proudly announces a charitable gift of $150,000 as an additional endowment to the Ulster Savings Charitable Foundation. The Foundation was created in 2001 to provide funding to organizations and communities in Ulster, Dutchess, and Greene counties in the areas of education, housing, and health and human services. The long-term goal of the Bank is to fully endow the Foundation so it can sustain the philanthropic giving of the bank in perpetuity. For more information, call 845-338-6322.

SLCH OFFERS CHARCOTMARIE-TOOTH DISEASE SUPPORT GROUP St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital is proud to introduce the first Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) support group in Orange County. Meetings are held one Saturday every other month at 11 a.m. at the hospital’s Cornwall campus, 19 Laurel Avenue, Conference Room B. Upcoming dates are January 23, March 27 and May 22. CMT, the most common inherited neurological disorder, affects approximately 150,000 Americans. For more information, call Debbie Newman at 845-883-0580.

DEDRICK’s PHARMACY & GIFTS NAMED GIFTED RETAILER Gifts & Decorative Accessories Magazine has named Dedrick’s Pharmacy & Gifts one of 25 Gifted Retailers in the USA for 2009. Stores were evaluated based on their innovative approach to marketing and merchandising and how they make a difference in their community. For more information, call 845-255-0310, visit www.dedrickspharmacy.com or stop in at 190 Main Street, New Paltz.

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THE BOTTOM LINE LEGISLATION AND NEWS THAT AFFECTS YOUR BUSINESS Compiled by Kelley Granger Cuts and Budget Bruises Now facing a budget deficit that New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli estimates is as high as $4.1 billion, Governor David Paterson is still trying to get lawmakers to pass a series of budget cuts that he hopes will stabilize the state’s finances. The original proposal aimed to close a $3.1 billion deficit gap with more than 60 percent of the plan composed of cuts, mostly to education and health care, two sectors that account for more than half of the state’s budget of $131.9 billion. Paterson is now asking the Legislature to come up with just half that amount and find a way to reduce the debt by at least $1.5 billion. Paterson has even suggested an “Executive Option Proposal” that will grant him the “one-time authority to balance our current budget, preserve our credit rating, and keep New York afloat.” Though the option would allow lawmakers to avoid taking any blame for unpopular cuts, the state Senate has said that it will not approve the measure.

Economic Survey Says… Following up their October declaration that the “Great Recession” is over, the National Association of Business Economists (NABE) is predicting that job losses will bottom out in the first quarter of 2010 and that re-staffing should begin in the spring. “While the recovery has been jobless so far, that should soon change. Within the next few months, companies should be adding instead of cutting jobs,” said Lynn Reaser, president of the NABE. The association also foresees a housing rebound, rising stock prices, and low inflation, while they expect the consumer upturn to be more slow-moving.

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The House and Senate have both introduced bills that would expand Medicaid coverage and pass associated costs along to the state. The Senate bill passed in mid-November aims to expand Medicaid eligibility to those with incomes that fall at or below 133 percent of the poverty line, adding an estimated 15 million people to the program. The bill proposed by the House would increase coverage even more, making those with income up to 150 percent of the poverty level eligible. Medicaid is funded through a federal-state partnership that leaves Albany and counties each accountable for one quarter of the cost. Counties mostly pay their share through property taxes. The House bill does stipulate a reimbursement of 100 percent of the expanded coverage costs it provides that other states do not. If approved, legislators plan to combine the best of the two bills in a House-Senate conference that is yet to be scheduled as of mid-December.

The New York State Health Foundation and the Small Business Majority released a study that examines health insurance costs, employee wages, job impact, profits, and how insurance benefits might influence whether employees change jobs. Results indicate that if things stay as they are, small businesses will lose 10,000 jobs a year, $155.6 billion in health insurance costs, and $54.2 billion in lost wages through 2018. The study found a single payer plan would be 8.5 percent higher in cost than the current status quo, but found that switching to one of two very different approaches, either a market reform plan or a shared responsibility scheme, “significantly outperform continuation of the status quo,” according to David Sandman, a spokesman for the Foundation. A market reform plan would rely on bundles of tax credits and would place high risk members in a separate pool, thereby removing certain coverage

obligations and reducing insurance and lost wage costs as well as the number of jobs lost. Shared responsibility schemes, on the other hand, rely on public programs to cover those under the poverty level, require all children be covered, and offer tax credits to employers who offer coverage. The study found that this approach would also shrink costs for small businesses. According to the report, only 49 percent of businesses with three to nine employees offer health insurance, while those with 50 employees or more have a 95 percent rate of coverage.

Cost of Cutting Costs The special sessions to discuss ways to close the budget gap ended up costing taxpayers a grand sum in stipends to lawmakers. Just one day of discussions in November, which failed to result in any agreement, cost New York’s taxpayers more than $35,000 to reimburse lawmakers for their transportation, meals, and hotel accommodations. In spite of a gaping budget deficit, the state raised the per diem from $160 to $171 a day in October. Legislators who attended commented that the work could have been done in half the time and that the session was “irresponsible” and a “total waste of taxpayers’ money.”

Affordable Abodes A recent study by the planning departments of Ulster, Dutchess, and Orange counties with Economic and Policy Resources Inc. found a significant lack of affordable housing in the area. The Daily Freeman reported that Ulster County, for example, has just 21.3 percent of homes at or below the affordable mark with an affordable rent gap of $667 for median-income tenants. “Affordable housing” is defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as costing owners or tenants no more than 30 percent of their gross income on rent or a mortgage, utilities, insurance, and taxes. The study predicts that the problem will escalate over the next 10 years and states the issue is a hindrance to economic growth. REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2010

THE GREEN OFFICE

ESTABLISHING AN ECO-OFFICE Protect the Health of the Environment and Your Employees, Too By Kelley Granger

t’s January, the time of year when everyone resolves to concentrate on at least one goal for the next 12 months. This year, you can take care of two goals with one stone—make your workspace more healthy and comfortable for employees and more eco-friendly at the same time. A number of local green-living leaders weighed in to help compile a list of sustainable suggestions, some requiring a significant investment, others requiring just a bit of forethought. The environmental payback (and money saved) could be significant.

The One Audit You’ll Want Before doing anything else, Rick Alfandre of Alfandre Architecture recommends contacting an energy auditor to visit your business and evaluate your location’s performance. “If you own the building, I would have a building performance contractor do a full energy audit, which includes testing and prioritization of energy improvements,” he says. “When it’s done, there’s almost always health and safety analyses that go along with it and relate to water and moisture management, combustion appliance safety, and things like that. Because as we tighten up buildings and insulate them we create the possibility of unhealthy spaces due to moisture problems or combustion appliances leaking either gas 22

or combustion products into the building.” Alfandre recommends Integral Building and Design of New Paltz for these services.

their space without having to make a significant investment in someone else’s property.

See Fluorescents in a Different Light

Almost 40 percent of the carbon dioxide emissions in the U.S. can be traced back to the heating, air conditioning, and power that we eat up in offices. Using less is the simplest way to make a difference, and some products can make that easier—Alfandre recommends installing a digital thermostat to regulate temperatures throughout the workday and after hours when staff is gone. “A lot of these things are almost mundanely simple but are such a good thing to do, even from a comfort view,” he says. When you’re using heat or air conditioning, you’ll also want to make sure that any leaky areas of the office are sealed up. The historic homes and buildings that dot our regional landscape may be beautiful to the eye, but can perform poorly when it comes to shielding the indoors from outdoor temperatures. If you can’t replace old windows entirely, Alfandre suggests looking into interior storm windows, which can help preserve the indoor temperature. For quick, inexpensive fixes, purchase weather stripping or door sweeps to help insulate against the cold.

Richard Miller of Richard Miller Architecture and Alfandre both agree that altering your lighting can make one of the biggest benefits for the earth and in energy savings. “Energy efficiency is a potentially big thing that people can be implementing in any business location. It can be complicated or fairly simple depending on the nature of occupancy,” says Alfandre. “If we’re talking about an office space, for example, there’s a tremendous amount of available high efficiency, good quality lighting products for office spaces that are not that expensive to install.” Both architects highly recommend looking into fluorescent lighting. If the thought makes you cringe, it shouldn’t. According to Miller, new fluorescents aren’t manufactured with PCBs, like they were in the old days, and new fluorescent ballasts oscillate at an improved rate, so they shouldn’t cause eye fatigue the way old models did. Installing dimmers or light sensors can also reap huge rewards in energy savings. Not only do Miller and Alfandre feel lighting is one of the easiest and most significant changes a business can make, but it’s also a way for renters to improve

A Window to Energy Savings

Solar Powered For business locations that are owned instead

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A 70 Percent Incentive

Central Hudson’s Barry Henck Discusses the Savings Central Program

of rented or are run from home, renewable energy can provide multiple benefits and savings if you can afford the initial expense. According to Stephen Filler of Prism Solar in Highland, not only will you be generating a healthier power for your particular office and enjoy long-run savings, but you’ll be helping to stabilize the grid and mitigate a need for more power plants in peak periods. “This is all by way of saying there’s tremendous benefits to solar,“ he says. “For society, for the grid, for businesses. And it’s one of the reasons why it’s important to have programs to foster the use of it.” Luckily, a variety of programs offer subsidies that can help cover the cost, and according to Hudson Valley Clean Energy, up to 60 percent of the cost can be offset by grants and other incentive programs. Prism Solar is ramping up to introduce a holographic film to the market, which will make solar modules less expensive and also increase the energy output when compared to a standard module without Prism’s technology. The company is expecting its product to be available within the next year or so. “We expect that by 2012 our product will be at grid parity without subsidies,” says Filler, “meaning that someone can buy our modules and deliver electricity for less than what they would pay for electricity through the utility.”

A Green Clean The state of an employee’s personal work environment should be just as much of a concern as larger environmental goals. In his office, Alfandre uses green cleaning products instead of chemical cleaners, and recommends purchasing a HEPA filter vacuum to eliminate a huge percentage of potentially harmful airborne particles that can be brought into the office through dirty air ducts or muddy shoes. A simple way to

eliminate airborne particles and pathogens is to place a carpet in front of your entryway, Miller says. He recommends the carpet be at least six feet in length to properly trap dirt, and to keep another on hand so you can swap them out when it’s time to be cleaned.

Breathe Easy If office renovations and painting are part of your 2010 plans, Kate Dayton of Green Courage recommends using an earth-friendly wall treatment as opposed to standard paints. She carries a true zero VOC (volatile organic compound) paint called Mythic, which she says is a high quality without the off-gassing. Conventional paints, Dayton says, can contain urea formaldehyde, a toxin that can off-gas for years when ignited by temperature or moisture changes. But paint is not the only potential source of toxins or irritation in an office. Printers, photocopiers, and other machines that use ink and toner can emit ozone, toner dust, or other substances that can inflame the respiratory tract, at the least. Miller recommends that if possible, these machines be kept in a designated room that’s well ventilated.

Quit Coming to Work Don’t resign from your job, but see if you can arrange to telecommute, even if it’s just once a week. “A home office is definitely efficient; you’re not commuting and not building up the space, [so you could effectively] reduce the size of the facility,” says Miller. “Employees may already have an office in their home anyway, so that could be a valuable thing.” The smaller the space an office needs, the smaller its environmental impact. Not only that, but the amount of vehicle emissions that could be saved by working virtually would be staggering.

or business owners who are lookF ing to retrofit their existing facilities with energy efficient alternatives, Central Hudson’s new Business Energy SavingsCentral program could be of interest—it promises to provide a rebate of up to 70 percent for the equipment cost of a qualified efficiency upgrade. Barry Henck, a member of the company’s SavingsCentral energy efficiency team, will speak to business owners about the rebate program at a luncheon in January. B usinesses who want to participate in the program would be required to schedule a free energy audit with one of Central Hudson’s contractors. “We have a contractor that comes to do an on-site energy assessment and they write down all the areas where that business owner stands to see some savings,” says Henck. “There may be two or three areas where customers could save some money on their electric bill or it could be six or seven, it depends for each business. If that business owner follows through on the energy efficiency upgrade, we’ll give up to 70 percent of the equipment cost of the upgrade.” Customers could see rebates for anything from efficient lighting updates to the installation of a geothermal heat pump. Join Henck and other Chamber members on January 20 from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Gold Fox Restaurant, 600 State Route 208, Gardiner. The event is complimentary to corporate partners, $18 for members, and $25 for non-members. Please call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org to reserve a space.

REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2010

MEMBER PROFILES Sustainable Businesses By Kelley Granger Small changes can make a big impact when it comes to the environment, and just being a bit more mindful of the way in which products and services are provided can make all the difference in making eco-friendly purchasing decisions. The Hudson Valley is home to scores of companies that make saving the earth a top priority. While those that do obvious sustainable work, like solar and geothermal installers or organic farmers, may get most of the credit, sometimes seemingly unrelated industries are also doing their part to make their corner of the marketplace a more earth-friendly one.

MEMBER PROFILE

Wallkill Valley Land Trust I

n 1987, several members of the community came together with an interest in preserving the farmland and open space in southern Ulster County. Since that time, the Wallkill Valley Land Trust has worked with landowners to protect more than 1,500 acres, including natural habitats, farmland, and areas of historic and scenic value. “On a personal level, [the most satisfying aspect of my work is] being able to advocate for this area I’ve completely fallen in love with,” says Christie Ferguson, the executive director of the WVLT, who formerly lived in Miami. “I think it’s fair to extend that to the rest of our small staff but especially the board. It’s that passion for this place that really drives every one of us in speaking for conservation easements and getting people to understand what they are.” A conservation easement is a voluntary agreement between a landowner and a land trust that restricts certain uses of land in 24

order to preserve it. Contrary to what some people might think, there’s no transfer of ownership, and landowners can still sell or pass on the land as an inheritance—but future owners will be subject to the rules of the land trust. “Some people hear ‘conservation easement’ and they think, ‘Oh, you don’t want any development and you want all the zoning laws to prevent anything from ever happening’ and that’s not true,” says Ferguson. “We want smart growth and to protect what we have for future generations to come. There’s nothing more rewarding than that.” And it’s a reward that the whole community gets to enjoy. Not only does it help preserve the unique and magnificent scenery of the area, but the benefits go further—for instance, preserving Pine Hole Bog, according to the WVLT, is a service to neighboring towns because it filters water and helps prevent flooding and soil erosion. The trust also helps

support local agriculture by offering farmers (and all others who donate land to the trust) federal tax benefits that can help ease financial burdens on their business, while they still enjoy the right to harvest the land. For 2010, the WVLT is excited about new acquisitions, including land that will extend the current Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. The year will be busy cleaning up those new properties and hosting another year’s worth of the “On the Land” program, where the public can sign up for guided walks through protected properties. WALLKILL VALLEY LAND TRUST, INC. P.O. Box 208 New Paltz, NY 12561 845-255-2761 www.wallkillvalleylt.org

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MEMBER RENEWALS

Thank you! A Little Guest House A Victorian Knoll About Town Above & Beyond Cleaning Services Allspace Storage Allstate Insurance Company—

Richard Ostrander Agency

Arbor Bed & Breakfast Atlas Star, Ltd. Audrey’s Farmhouse Baker’s Bed & Breakfast MEMBER PROFILE

Craig Thomas Pest Control

raig Thomas grew up in the pest control business—his father, Jim, had started a career in pest management and founded Mid-Hudson Pest Control in 1956, and Thomas worked with him during high school and college. After earning a degree in natural resources and conservation in 1983, he began a job as a New York pesticide control specialist where he enforced regulations concerning the sale and use of pesticides. By the time he founded Craig Thomas Pest Control in 1996, he had a well rounded background coupled with a genuine concern for the environment. The company has been offering green alternatives to pest control since it was established as a business. “Truly it’s forming a partnership with clients,” says Thomas, “not only protecting their health and property against pests but also helping select a method of doing that.” For example, he says that in a lot of situations it’s much more effective to use an eco-friendly method than a pesticide. In the case of roaches, you get much better results with bait, sanitation, and inspections as opposed to using a fumigating fog. When it comes to bed bugs, Craig

Thomas Pest Control can steam mattresses with hot vapor and then encase them with a plastic so that nothing gets in or out, instead of using chemical options. The company also carries EcoSMART natural pesticides, a line of interior and exterior products made of botanical and essential oils that provides the same protection as traditional pesticides, even with residual effect, but without the potentially harmful ingredients. “You have to look at going green overall. You just can’t be a part of green washing,” says Thomas. “My industry is stereotyped as the typical dirty exterminator, but sustainability comes in many different forms, from product to material selection but also the way you operate your business from ink to billing. When it comes to going green, it’s a mindset. Everybody needs to buy in and be a part of that, customers too.” CRAIG THOMAS PEST CONTROL

1186 Route 9G Hyde Park, NY 12538 845-255-0161 www.callcraig.com

Barner Books Beek’s Auto Benefit Counseling Associates Berner Financial Services Bodymind Massage Therapy Brookfield Farm Buttermilk Falls Inn & Spa Capitol Electrical Contracting, Inc. Captain Schoonmaker’s B & B CDPHP-Capital District Physicians’

Health Plan

Chefs on Fire & Amici Sushi Clove Cottages Colonial Flower Shop Contract Design Associates, Inc. Cosimo’s Brick Oven Country Visions Realty Eastern Mountain Sports Enchanted Toys Exit Realty Services FirstCare Walk-In Medical Center Flint Mine Press (Publisher of Hudson

Valley Wine magazine)

Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits

REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2010

MEMBER RENEWALS Fox Hill Bed & Breakfast G. Steve Jordan Gallery Gardiner Reformed Church Hampton Inn—Kingston Hans Auto Service Highland Manor B & B Hudson Heritage Federal Credit

Union

Hudson Valley Cleaning Hudson Valley Dogwatch Hudson Valley Resort and Spa Ideal Cleaning Solutions Inn at Orchard Heights MEMBER PROFILE

Inn at Twaalfskill

Uptown Attic

Jai Ma Yoga Center Janne Dooley, LCSW Jingle Bell Bed & Breakfast John Conklin Construction, LLC John DeNicolo, CPA John J. Lease Realtors Highland Office LaBella Pizza Bistro Lawrence R. Trank, PLLC Lowe’s Home Improvement Luis General Contracting Main Street Bistro Man With A Van MapleStone Inn Marshall & Sterling, Inc. Michael Zierler, Scientific Editing Midas Mohonk Mountain Stage Co., Inc. Mountain Meadows Bed & Breakfast Nectar New Paltz Agway New Paltz Child Care Center New Paltz Community Foundation

lthough not all consignment shops market themselves as eco-friendly, there’s something inherently good for the environment when you consider it—it’s another life for clothes, shoes, handbags, and other items that can’t simply be dropped in the recycling bin. “If for one month people stopped buying new and regenerated the old, what an impact that would have on the environment,” says Jodi Whitehead, owner of Uptown Attic in Gardiner. “Anything you throw out creates waste. It’s got to go to the landfill just the same. “Whatever kind of material it is, it’s waste.” While she’s passionate about the sustainable side of her business, she’s also just as eager to introduce shoppers to a different side of consignment—a higher class experience that she compares to antiquing—all without that familiar thrift shop smell. “The biggest thing that makes my shop different is the overall appearance,” Whitehead says. “When people walk in they’re in awe of what it looks like, it’s not a consignment shop, it’s a boutique. I have a little bit of everything for every budget and every income, so there’s a lot of different values, names, and price points to choose from.” She makes sure that

she takes items in on a seasonal basis, so customers won’t be weeding through winter coats in June, and also accepts only high quality, brand name clothing that’s in perfect condition. “I have anything from an Old Navy sweater to a beautiful Coach satchel bag,” she says. “I have a lot of Eileen Fisher, and things that still have price tags on them for $300 because people didn’t use them.” Whitehead says that in this type of economic climate, she thinks consignment will grow even more in popularity since it gives people a chance to not only source budgetfriendly finds, but also to make a little extra cash by dropping off unused merchandise to be sold. And what she doesn’t win over in price or eco-commitment, she does by customer service. “Customer service is always my number one personal goal, going above and beyond to please the customer and making my environment at Uptown Attic a welcoming one,” Whitehead says. UPTOWN ATTIC 133 Main Street Gardiner, NY 12525 845-255-0093 www.uptownattic.net

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MEMBER RENEWALS NuMony Technologies, Inc. Paul’s Kitchen Paychex Pinnacle Learning Center Postage Inn Restaurant & Pub, Inc. Professional Computer Associates Rock Pile Development, Inc. Roots & Wings Rose and Kiernan, Inc. Stonegate Bed & Breakfast SUNY Ulster Tantillo’s Farm Market The Arts Community The Bywater Bistro MEMBER PROFILE

MyStudio Designs I

f your business is in the market for brochures, signage, invitations, or other materials that need to be designed, MyStudio is a one-stop sustainable shop. Owner Shellie Pomeroy takes her environmental obligations very seriously. “As a designer, I’m in the position to influence services and material use,” she says. “My goal is to be sure that service providers follow best practices and that materials are nontoxic and sourced responsibly.” Pomeroy says that a best case scenario for marketing materials are ones that are printed on FSC certified recycled paper (with post-consumer recycled content being the best) at a sustainable printer who uses low VOC vegetable- and soy-based inks instead of the petroleumbased products that are the industry norm at print shops. “MyStudio works to inform the client on how to lessen their impact on the environment and to quietly educate their customers to do the same,” Pomeroy says. “We are in a time where we are depleting our natural resources, and many companies are unaware of

the enormous impact their printed materials have on the environment.” During college, Pomeroy worked for Greenpeace and it was this experience that helped solidify a sense of responsibility for the environment, though she says it took a while before she connected the dots between concern for the environment and her design work. She graduated college with a BFA in graphic design from SUNY New Paltz and worked in the publishing industry for names like Price Stern Sloan, Lowell House, and Golden Books. She moved back to New Paltz from Los Angeles in 2007 to raise her family and start a freelance design career with sustainability in mind. “If I can do what I love and create positive change at the same time, what could be better?” she says. MYSTUDIO DESIGNS 1 Hawk Hill Road New Paltz, NY 12561 914-204-4364 www.mystudiodesigns.com

The Culinarian’s Home

Foundation, Inc.

The Great Lakes Bar & Restaurant The Groovy Blueberry Retail/

Wholesale

The Kiltmaker’s Apprentice The Sheeley House TVB Enterprises Ulster County Tourism Under the Magenta Moon Vanessa Hauss Vision Works, Inc. Water Street Market Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Wendie Reid Realty Westwood Metes & Bounds Realty,

LTD.—Sandra Reid

Whispering Pines Bed & Breakfast Wright’s Farm Yussel’s Place Judaic Art & Gift Gallery

Members who joined as of Nov. 15.

REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2010

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

LETS MAKE A DIFFERENCE TOGETHER A strong business community benefits the whole community. In this issue, the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce Marketing Department considers the value of member feedback.

lis·ten (lis- n) intr.v. To make an effort to hear something. To pay attention; heed. Source: The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition

hen planning programs, services and events, we always stress how important it is to hear our membership’s point of view, but that word—“hear”—does not do justice to the intent behind the statement. The right word, of course, is listen. One cannot listen passively. When truly listening, it is impossible to make 28

assumptions or presume to know what is coming next. Listening, as the definition above makes clear, requires one to make an effort and pay attention. We need a better basis for understanding your goals than our own expectations. Your input is essential as we seek to serve you and your business. We are a membership-driven organization; the success of our membership is the only true measure of our own success. When we ask you to tell us your expectations, goals and challenges, we genuinely want to know. Why? It’s simple: We cannot exceed your expectations, assist you in reaching your goals or help you overcome your challenges if we do not know what they are. We’re also interested in learning more about your Chamber experience, and helping you share that experience with your peers. Our monthly, small group, by-invitation-only Business Connection meeting is one way to facilitate this, as well as the new testimonial section of our weekly Event Reminder emails. Sharing with other Chamber members and listening to their stories is one way to learn how to maximize your own benefits while growing your business network. As we plan for the year ahead, we need to know which Chamber benefits and services

MEMBERSHIP SUCCESS COMMITTEE CHAIR Chris Drouin Beyond

Wealth Management

CO-CHAIR Patrick Turner Little Pond

Consulting Jason Beach Paychex Kristina Hidalgo Pine Haven B&B Cathy Hyland New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce Peter A. Ingellis Ideal Cleaning Solutions Jeff Mehl Daybreak Virtual Staffing Lucy Paradies New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce Amanda R. Potts Tress Olay

are important to you and which are not, which kinds of events you enjoy and which you are unlikely to attend, which topics for the Foundation’s Professional Development Series will best help you and your business and which topics you find less useful. Your answers to these questions drive our decision-making and help us tailor our programs, services and events to the specific needs of our membership. Call us. Email us. Stop in to see us. We are here to listen to you.

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REGIONAL REPORT WINTER 2010

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

2010 CORPORATE PARTNERS LEADING PARTNER

Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp. ASSOCIATE PARTNER

Brinckerhoff and Neuville Insurance Group SUPPORTING PARTNERS

Health Quest KIC Chemicals, Inc. Ulster Savings Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell LLP, CPAs

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