COMMUNITY
BUS I NES S
EDUCATION
NEW PALTZ
REGIONAL
CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE
TOURISM
REGIONAL
REPORT
FALL 2009
A QUARTERLY BUSINESS NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
THE NEW NORMAL The Changing Customer-Business Paradigm By Kelley Granger
T
he way markets consume products and services is being profoundly changed by a convergence of influences. While the economic hardships of the past year have played a large part in the transformation of our collective behavior as customers, innovative uses of communications technology and a growing eco-consciousness are also among the catalysts spurring change. Perhaps, at the root of this revolution, our ideals are changing. We aren’t just looking to save a buck, we’re looking for true value and an authentic relationship. We’re seeking businesses that have a bigger picture of social and environmental responsibility in mind. We want integrity and candor from our merchants and salespeople. We want to be smart about how we spend our money—we’ll stretch each dollar as far as it can go and expect that business will still provide us with above-average service and options. In order to stay relevant, businesses will have to accept these terms as a “new normal,” a restructured set of customer expectations that will shift business interactions in a new direction. Continued on p. 12
IN THIS ISSUE
10
A Good Incentive
21
The Bottom Line
22
Decanting Wine Wisdom
24
Member Profiles: Self-Improvement
The CPAs of Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell offer tax tips at the business luncheon on November 18.
Part-time unemployment, Sen. Gillibrand pushes for federal funds for manufacturing, and more.
An interview with Kevin Zraly, founder of Windows on the World Wine School.
Lifebridge Sanctuary, Jai Ma Yoga, be clutter FREE, Vicki Koenig
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