Certify CNY Inaugural Issue

Vol. 1 Issue 1 2020

In This Issue:

CERTIFY CNY

Welcome: The Debut Issue Lane Change: DBE LStacks Trucking Access Granted: Access Global Enterprises New York State MBE Donai Inc. NYS MWBE Interior Innovations CERTIFIED CNY DIRECTORY

WE MEAN BUSINESS COVER PHOTO BY SMARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

The Official MWBE Directory of Central New York

Certify CNY is an Online Directory of Central New York based Minority and WomenOwned Business Enterprises The Official MWBE directory of Central New York was founded with the express intent to leverage the largest MWBE community in the region. This publication will give a voice and a platform to marginalized businesses in Central New York, specifically, minority and womenowned businesses, with one objective in mind; to raise the status quo up. We have worked hard throughout the region to represent you by advocating fiercely for support to build and increase MWBE capacity in CNY. By sharing your stories, shaping your narratives and harnessing

the power of your MWBE network, you share in our efforts to shed light on the economic capabilites within the CNY MWBE community.

Our vision? To increase MWBE capacity in the CNY region by 30% in the next four years. Currently, less than 5% of eligible black and brown-owned businesses in the region are certified to compete for New York State contracting opportunities contributing to the widening disparity gap that exists for MWBE's. In order to address that we must do three things; Qualify.

Certify. Compete.

Rickey T. Brown PRINCIPAL

NYS MBE DIVERSIFY-NY, LLC

PAGE 1

PAGE 2

LEAD WRITER DIANA CLARK

Teacher by day, writer by night, Wonder Woman always.

Diana Clark is a leader with over fifteen years of experience as an educator, writer, and presenter. She is proud to have been born and raised in Syracuse. She holds a BA in Hispanic Language & Literature from Boston University, an MPA from Syracuse University, and a MST in Secondary Education from LeMoyne College.

Diana is bilingual in Spanish and English. She is the proud mom of a beautiful son and a dope cat.

"Where we are born into privilege, we are charged with dismantling any myth of supremacy. Where we are born into struggle, we are charged with claiming our dignity, joy, and liberation." -Adrienne Maree Brown

DOT CONNECTOR RICKEY BROWN

Father, businessmen, activist. founder and dot connector. Rickey Brown fights passionately for economic justice in his hometown Syracuse, NY. "WE USED TO FIGHT FOR BUILDING BLOCKS. BUT NOW, WE FIGHT FOR BLOCKS WITH BUILDINGS THAT MAKE A KILLING." JAY Z

Rickey majored in Finance at the Whitman School of Managment at Syracuse University.

He holds several board seats including The Syracuse Industrial Development Agency, Onondaga Community College, Housing Visions, and Home Headquarters Inc. PAGE 3

ONPOINT INTERNS M I L L I O N

N E G A S H

Thanks to the generosity of OnPoint For College, we have enjoyed a number of interns from culturally rich and diverse backgrounds, like Million Negash. Million is a first generation immigrant to the United States and spent the summer helping us prepare marketing, funding requests and graphic design work. Million recently celebrated his 22nd birthday. He is a senior attending SUNY Potsdam where he majors in Mathematics with a double minor in communications and fitness. He's keeping it OnPoint.

OUR MISSION CERTIFY CNY

We are a multi-platform media publication with a primary focus on increasing MWBE utilization and engagement in Central New York. Our Mission?

TO IDENTIFY, CREATE, AND PROMOTE OPPORTUNITIES THAT SUPPORT THE ADVANCEMENT OF MINORITY AND WOMENOWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES(MWBE).

Syracuse native Dakoro Edwards vividly captures the essence of our efforts to raise the capacity of our regional Minority and Minority Women, and Women-Owned businesses in canvas work titled, "In This World."

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THE OFFICIAL MWBE 01 DIRECTORY OF CENTRAL NEW YORK

CERTIFY CNY FEBRUARY 2020

THIS ISSUE FIRST IN CLASS. THESE ENTREPRENEURS ARE TRAILBLAZERS IN CNY.

FEATURE In this special Black Hi s t o r y Mo n t h E d i t i o n we f o l l o w f o u r c o mp a n i e s a n d t h e i mp a c t o f certifcation on their bottom lines.

LSTACKS TRUCKING Meet the only minority-owned DBE certified trucking company in the five county area of Central New York.

Find out how DBE certification paved the way for his company's growth.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH EDITION

For this debut issue we took a small sample of four moderately sized Central New York based Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises, all a FIRST in the history of their respective professions and families, to deomonstrate the economic prowess of our MWBE capacity in Central New York.

The estimated economic impact of these firms represent not only the potential for our regional economy, but also the capabilities of our MWBE's to perform. Thank you to the individual businesses that trusted in our vision to reflect the very best of Central New York. We hope you enjoy our bimonthly publication and look forward to your support!

Published by: PAGE 5

ONONDAGA COUNTY’S FIRST CHIEF DIVERSITY OFFICER

PHOTO COURTESY MONICA WILLIAMS

MONICA WILLIAMS BUILDS A NEW LEGACY The Onondaga County Legislature voted unanimously to approve former County Legislator, Monica Williams(D) as new Chief Diversity Officer. Williams was tapped by Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon to serve in her new role which falls under the department of economic development. Williams will serve as the first Chief Diversity Officer in Onondaga County history. Amir Gethers, pictured, will serve as a compliance officer within the department and is among her first hires. Williams brings a wealth of legislative and political experience to the position. Williams has also been a staunch advocate for the marginalized and disenfranchied in Onondaga County. Certify CNY wishes to congratulate Ms. Williams in her new position and for being a trailblazer in Onondaga County History. A Black History Month first!

CHECK OUT OUR DIRECTORY LISTINGS! Attention Procurement Professionals! The highly anticipated debut of our Certified CNY Directory Pages is here! Check out these digitized records that are searchable by name, commodity code, or trade. These easily digestable subscrioption-based pages will offer free listings for certified Minority and Women-Owned Businesses residing in Central New York. Increase your MWBE engagement and untilization with the OFFICIAL MWBE DIRECTORY of Central New York, Certify CNY! Diversify-NY, LLC is a New York State certified MBE.

ACCESS DENTAL The nation's first black-owned dental lab is set to open in Syracuse, NY in 2020. We speak with husband and wife Todd Reid and Dr. Shanelle Benson Reid.

INTERIOR INNOVATIONS Laura Cueva, President of Interior Innovations, a New York State dually certified company (MBE-MWBE), takes us for a tour of her new 51, 000 Sqft building and it's planned renovations.

THE DIRECTORY Access Global Enterprises, AdminOn-Call, Donai Inc, Dreissig Apparel, Gwen Inc, Gomez Mechanical, Heat and Cool Solutions, Interior Innovations Inc, NJ Jones Plumbing LLC, R.H. Fire LLC, Sekou Cooke Studio PPLC PAGE 6

Profiles In Excellence

BY DIANA CLARK Perseverance. Preparation. Legacy. When Larry Stackhouse started as one of CENTRO’s first African American mechanics back in 1981, he had no idea that one day he’d be another first – the President and CEO of the first Minority DBE trucking company based in Central New York and the only between Albany and Rochester.

Over a 36-year career at CENTRO, Larry worked his way up from mechanic to foreman and eventually became the Senior Director of Fleet Maintenance. His career was filled with perseverance and preparation as he learned the ins and outs of the transportation industry. It was also filled with a legacy of providing quality training, a strong sense of dignity and respect for all, and a desire to diversify the workforce. When it was time to retire, Larry brought all of that to his new business, L Stack’s Construction Co. LLC.

Meet CNY's Sole DBE Certified MinorityOwned Trucking Company LARRY STACKHOUSE PRINCIPAL, LSTACKS TRUCKING

With technical assistance from Diversify, NY, Larry set to work quickly. He created a business plan, purchased a dump truck, and began bidding for jobs. He went through the process of applying for and becoming a DBE Certified Minority Business Enterprise through an application process with the New York State Department of Transportation. Then he began to seek contractual opportunities.

That work included attending pre- and post-bid meetings, monitoring NYS websites for job opportunities, bidding on jobs, and learning the business himself from the ground up as a dump truck driver. His business model for the first two years has included not taking a salary and reinvesting all revenue he has received.

Like many small business owners, this work is a team effort. Larry’s wife, Lorraine, contributes by doing the bookkeeping and helping him research bidding opportunities for the business through the New York Contractor Reporter’s website.

PHOTOS COURTESY L.STACKHOUSE

P PA AG GE E7 5

FEB. 2020 • ISSUE NO. 1

MINORITY-OWNED DBE CERTIFIED HOW DBE CERTIFICATION CHANGED THE TRAJECTORY OF ONE TRUCKING COMPANY

DBE CERTIFIED

BY DIANA CLARK

“IT’S A BLESSING TO BE

Just eighteen months in,

Larry’s hopes for the long-

ABLE TO PUT A PLAN

Larry’s business is expected to

term future of his company

TOGETHER AND MAKE THAT

turn a profit thanks to several

include acquiring his own

COME INTO EXISTENCE.”

new contracts he has landed.

facility to house his offices

He hopes to hire five truck

and fleet of vehicles.

drivers and two office

Eventually, he also hopes to

managers by the end of this

train African American truck

year. When he started out, he

drivers to get their Class B

sought out as many bidding

Licenses. His advice to

opportunities as he could.

aspiring MWBEs? “Follow your

Now, he has noticed a

dream. Follow your passion

significant increase in bid

and make it come to light.”

opportunities as municipalities begin to approach him. “It’s a blessing to be able to put a plan together and make that come into existence.”

PAGE 8

NATION'S FIRST BLACK-OWNED DENTAL LAB TO OPEN IN CNY ACCESS DENTAL LABORATORIES TO OPEN $2.8 MILLION PROJECT IN SYRACUSE, NY

ACCESS GRANTED Q&A WITH TODD REID, CO-FOUNDER ACCESS DENTAL LABORATORIES

What inspired you to open Access

execute my vision. We met at

Dental Laboratories?

Destiny USA some years ago. I

The feeling of not being beholden

guess you can say this is all divine

to a check. I didn't like the feeling

intervention.

NYS MWBE CERTIFIED ACCESS GLOBAL ENTERPRISES TODD REI D AND WI FE, DR. SHANELLE BENSON- REI D

of my job security being taken away if that ever happened. So

You've been successful obtaining

ten years ago, I began to focus on

capital for your new project in

an exit plan.

the early phases-what's the secret?

Your wife is also your business partner-tell me about that

Being true to our brand. We have

chemistry and how you've been

had to navigate new circles both

so successful as a team?

socially and politically, but we are

My wife and I have complimenting

always mindful not to take

talents. Administratively, she is a

everything heard in those rooms

Godsend. She was able to help

to heart. There are a lot of good

me

leaders in the community.

PAGE 9

CONTINUED

SMARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

DEC. 2020 • ISSUE NO. 9

ACCESS GRANTED

Where do you see your company in 3-5 years?

As being a conduit to other black businesses. Effectively, we plan to extend the hand we've been dealt to other smaller Black-

CONTINUED

owned businesses and in turn, hope that they do the same.

Why did you choose the S.

Being the first is always something to be proud of, but we also

Salina St. location in Syracuse,

have to experience things that others before us never have, so,

NY to open your business?

it's a balance. My wife and I are very proud to be here.

We want to be the start of Black Wall Street on the South Salina St. corridor. We sincerely believe this project will be transformative for the South Side of Syracuse.

"WE WANT TO BE THE START OF BLACK WALL STREET ON THE SOUTH SALINA ST. CORRIDOR." CO-FOUNDER TODD REID

Access Dental Laboratories plans to build a new $2.8 million facility in the heart of Syracuse along the South Salina St. Corridor. The investment will create 50 new jobs for area residents. continued

"Is there a new Black Renaissance In Syracuse?"

ACCESS GLOBAL ENTERPRISES

PHOTOGRAPH BY TRULIA.COM

By Diana Clark Todd and Dr. Shanelle Benson Reid are betting on themselves, and on our city. They are on a mission to build Syracuse’s Black Wall Street by tackling one project after another. Each is accomplished independently, but together they are a force. Originally from Southern California, Dr. Shanelle Benson Reid is a consultant, coach, author, and professional speaker. Her expertise is in the areas of educational and employment equity, cultural competency, social awareness, entrepreneurship, community and individual empowerment.

After teaching for several years, Dr. Benson Reid decided to pursue her doctorate in Organizational Leadership and later start her consulting company, ACCESS Global. She met her husband, Mr. Todd Reid, here in Syracuse. A seasoned professional himself, Mr. Reid has built a career as an expert in the dental field. He has over twentyfive years of experience in the industry and specializes in full-mouth reconstruction. Recently, the couple decided to build their own dental laboratory, ACCESS Dental Laboratories, the first and only black-owned, full-service dental laboratory in the United States. Together, Shanelle and Todd now run the ACCESS Global Family of Companies.

ACCESS Global Enterprises has several projects in development, from recently gaining site-control of a 16,000 square-foot building from the Syracuse Landbank to designing a state of the art curriculum and training program for the laboratory employees.

“I’M A MOVEMENT BY MYSELF BUT A FORCE WHEN WE’RE TOGETHER.” –NEO

CONTINUED

PAGE 11

ACCESS DENTAL LABORATORIES

Continued

Once complete, the four-story building will include childcare, office rental space, a café and a fitness center, the ACCESS Dental Laboratory and the ACCESS Dental executive offices. At capacity, the Reids anticipate hiring 50 people from the Southside of Syracuse. The couple has been intentional about locating their business in the city, getting community buy-in, and being a cornerstone in the rejuvenation of Syracuse’s south side. They understand it will require a lot of work, but they are ready and willing. This project is the culmination of a two-year process that included, late nights, numerous meetings, unexpected expenses, yet here they are, ready to transform a community. For Shanelle, this desire to impact a community comes from within and knowing that her beginning does not dictate her ending. “People see all the accomplishments.

However, I’m no different from anyone. I was a teen mom. I had two children before I was twenty-one years old. I grew up in poverty. But I knew there was more to my life.” For Todd, this commitment to serving the Southside community comes from acknowledging that it was someone who took a chance on him over 20 years ago, and that opportunity changed the trajectory of his life.

“Someone bet on me right out of high school and I feel obligated to do the same.”

If you ask them, Todd and Shanelle will candidly share, “We knew it would be great, but we had no idea how great. We are in awe of the community support. We are focused and driven but we feed off of their energy, as well. We love Syracuse, but we especially love the Southside.”

They continue to “take the next best step, make the next right move and know it will be great, a mustard seed of faith.” Their advice for aspiring MWBEs? Always be willing to bet on yourself. the hard work, the paperwork, the fees, the attention to detail.

PAGE 12

CERTIFIED CNY

A Directory of New York State Certified MWBE'S in Central New York

QUALIFICATIONS:

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE:

We are a Family of Companies! ACCESS Global Group creates specially-designed, programs for academic communities and professional organizations in the areas of cultural competency, social awareness, leadership development and employment / educational equity. ACCESS Dental Laboratories are full-service facilities that specialize in dental restorations.

Dr. Shanelle Benson-Reid

CONTACT DETAILS

NAICS: 611710 - EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANTS NIGP 91838 - EDUCATION AND TRAINING CONSULTING NIGP 92405 - ADVISORY SERVICES, EDUCATIONAL

ACCESS Global Enterprises, LLC 422 David Drive North Syracuse, NY 13212-1929 info@accessglobalenterprises.com www.accessglobalenterprises.com

OTHER PROJECTS: The C.L.E.A.N. Corporate Training Method:Cultural Competency, Social Awareness and the Impact of Equity on Employee PerformanceThe C.L.E.A.N. Corporate Training Program is based on perception and performance.

The CARDS Professional Development Method:Cultural Competency, Social Awareness and the Impact of Equity on Student SuccessThe CARDS Method is an equity-based, individualized approach to education.

Published with Support from:

COMPANY BACKGROUND Educational / Corporate Consultant NEW YORK STATE MBE, WBE MAY 2018 - MAY 2023 Educational and Corporate Consultant

Designs cultural competency, social awareness, educator enrichment, student empowerment and leadership development programs for academic communities.

CERTIFIED CNY

A Directory of New York State Certified MWBE'S in Central New York

QUALIFICATIONS:

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE:

We provide cost effective administrative business services on an as-needed basis. Perfect for busy Professionals, Sole proprietors, home based businesses, large and small business owners.

Eileen Collins, Principal

COMPANY BACKGROUND Office Administrative Services NEW YORK STATE MBE MAR 2018 - APR 2023 Administrative Services

CONTACT DETAILS Ms. Eileen L Collins 209 Elk Street Syracuse, NY 13205 315-760-9377 FAX 315-474-1405 adoncallny@gmail.com www.adminoncallny.com

SERVICES: Admin-On-Call:•Is your office manager on the go. We take care of all the typical office work so you don't have to. We provide all office administrative services that save you time, money, and satisfies your administrative needs. We manage your day-to-day affairs and rid you of the cumbersome details of running your back office.

Published with Support from:

NAICS: 561110-OFFICE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES We provide cost effective administrative business services on an as-needed basis. Perfect for busy professionals, sole proprietors, home based businesses, large and small business owners.

NYS MWBE NOW 5 YEARS Certification Period Extended from Three (3) to Five (5) Years for all Currently Certified NYS MWBEs.

NYS Updates MWBE Program By: Rickey T. Brown The New York State Department of Economic Development, Division of Minority and Women's Business Development (DMWBD), pursuant to Article 15-A of the Executive Law, has extended the certification period from three (3) to five (5) years for all currently certified NYS MWBEs. To obtain your updated MWBE Certificate and Approval Letter, please follow the instructions below:- Go to https://ny.newnycontracts.com/Log into your account with your username and password- On the left navigation menu, click View >> My Certifications- Under the "Current Certifications" section, click on "View" next to the certification- Scroll down to the "Letters & Certificates" section, then Click "View as PDF"If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to the DMWBD helpdesk at mwbecertification@esd.ny.gov and/or 212-803-2414. Additional information about the MWBE program can be found on the New York State MWBE website at https://esd.ny.gov/MWBE.html PROGRAM PARTIALLY FUNDED BY:

DIVERSIFY NY, LLC TO BECOME MEMBER OF COMMONSPACE

What Do DiverCities Have In Common?

Commonspace is a purveyor of inclusion and a curator of inspiration.

Diversify-NY is proudly joining the team at CommonSpace! Located at 201 Jefferson St, CommonSpace is centrally located in downtown Syracuse, NY and offers a variety of amenties to fit our client needs, but more importantly, offers an inclusive environment conducive to MWBE's! Find out more here: https://www.commonspace.com/

PAGE 15

CERTIFY CNY Regional Effort to Expand MWBE Businesses Underway

Diversify-NY, LLC Receives Second Major Award

THE OPPORTUNITY ZONE:

Want to Reach More MWBE'S?

By: Rickey T. Brown Thanks in large part to a gift from the Central New York Community Foundation, New York State certified MBE Diversify-NY, LLC will now offer FREE monthly NYS certification assistance workshops in order to address the disparity in Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise contracting opportunities in New York State contracts. Cosponsors Cooperative Federal Credit Union and Syracuse University also see the importance of supporting MWBE micro-enterprises as critical to the growth of our regional economy.

Under the Alliance for Economic Inclusion, an antipoverty initiative, Diversify-NY, LLC was selected as an award recipient among more than 70 applications submitted for the second round of funding. The project, CERTIFY CNY, will directly address barriers in New York State contracting for regionally-based minority and women-owned business enterprises. The award will be administered by Onondaga County.

County Executive Ryan McMahon made the announcement at his state of the county address.

Gov. Cuomo announced news of the award on 2/12/20.

More can be found here: https://on.ny.gov/2SWZKo3 To Register for our workshops: https://bit.ly/2VlNJuf (315) 403-5693 certifycny@gmail.com www.diversify-newyork.org LinkedIn.com/in/diversifynewyork 201 E. Jefferson St, Syracuse, NY 13203

Place Bids Here!!

Diversified Bid Listings!

Attention procurement officers!

Diversify-NY, LLC network is a Certified list of Central New York MWBE's located in CNY. Reach hundereds of area MWBE's for distribution of bid opportunities, receive the latest MWBE developments and access to the Certified CNY Directory. As a NYS MBE, Diversify-NY can help automate your MWBE utilization process. and count towards your MWBE goals!

Sponsored By:

PAGE 16

CERTIFIED CNY

A Directory of New York State Certified MWBE'S in Central New York

QUALIFICATIONS:

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE:

Donai Inc. a NYS Certified MBE firm that installs, roofing, siding, masonry, drywall, carpentry and roofing services. Our company was established in November 2017. Building your dreams., one home at a time.

Donai Inc. Adriel and Eustacious Donai

COMPANY BACKGROUND General Construction Services NEW YORK STATE MBE OCT 2019 - OCT 2024

CONTACT DETAILS Donai Inc. 2806 Midland Avenue Syracuse, NY 13205 315-928-9075 315-863-8100 donaiinc@gmail.com

PREVIOIUS PROJECTS Contact certifycny@gmail.com Directory listing includes online and limited print edition copies. $99 Annual listing includes free 1/4 page ad for a limited time.

Published with Support from:

NAICS: 236118 - REMODELING AND RENOVATING GENERAL CONTRACTORS, 238160 - ROOFING CONTRACTORS NIGP 90923 - BUILDING CONSTRUCTION, RESIDENTIAL, APARTMENTS, ETC. NIGP 91473 - ROOFING AND SIDING General construction services including roofing, siding, masonry, drywall, carpentry, and painting

DONAI INC. WITH A QUIET RESOLVE, THIS FATHER AND SON HAVE SET OUT TO CONQUER THE AMERICAN DREAM

PHOTOGRAPHS BY DIANA CLARK

By Diana Clark “I go on the template of my father.” – Adriel Donai

Rudyard Kipling, If: A Father's Advice to His Son

"If you can walk with the crowd and keep your virtue, or walk with Kings-nor lose the common touch; If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you; If all men count with you, but none too much; If you can fill the unforgiving minute with 60 seconds worth of distance run- Yours is the earth and everything that's in it, And-which is more-you'll be a man my son."

Adriel Donai grew up on the island of St. Lucia in his father Eustacious’ furniture making workshop. It was family work, and kept Adriel busy during what would have otherwise been idle time spent hanging with friends.

Eustacious might have had idle time himself as a child, had it not been for his mother who took him down to a local artisan’s workshop and asked if her son could spend his days helping out. And so a tradition was born, a template for finding one’s talent as an apprentice under the careful watch of a master craftsman.

PAGE 17

PERSEVERANCE

DEDICATION

HARD WORK

continued...

OUR DEFINING This dedication to learning a craft would later serve as a foundation for Adriel and his father to create their own business right here in Syracuse.

Now many years removed from those shops on the island, they are quickly growing as a MBE certified contracting company.Donai Inc. is a general contractor that offers complete interior and exterior refurbishing of residential and commercial properties. The company also purchases rental property for rehab and eventual conversion to affordable housing.

WORK ETHIC Since arriving to Central New York sixteen years ago, Eustacious has never been unemployed. He has worked hard and raised a family. A few years ago while both Adriel and Eustacious were employed at other businesses, they realized they could run their own. As Adriel puts it, "You're making somebody make money off your talent. It's a just a matter of consistency and perseverance."

“When something has become a pattern in your life, you apply the same principle anywhere”

PAGE 18

DONAI INC. continued The rise of their business has been quicker than either of them expected back in 2017, but then again, they have never been ones to be idle. They believe in doing quality work and have built a reputation that speaks for itself. Now that Donai, Inc. is MBE certified, Adriel and Eustacious have begun to respond to bids for contracts as a way to further grow their business. “Our thing is to do whatever we’re doing with integrity. Honesty is our only policy. Honest business pretty much. We have to give people what they’re paying for.”

This father-son team also has an eye toward the future. “We came here to try to do better, not to be average.” Toward that end, they hope to create training and job opportunities for young people to try different skills and perfect their talents. “It’s how you apply yourself, how you push. You educate yourself, you source those opportunities, and then you press forward.”

Their advice for other MBEs? “We encourage you to persevere. There will be challenges that come around, but there’s a lot of opportunity out there. One has to market themselves. Instead of waiting for the opportunity, you have to go out and get it. That goes a long way towards someone’s success.

You have to do your groundwork.”

"ONE HAS TO MARKET THEMSELVES. INSTEAD OF WAITING FOR THE OPPORTUNITY, YOU HAVE TO GO OUT AND GET IT."

PAGE 19

YOU ARE ANOTHER ME NYS WBE & MWBE INTERIOR INNOVATIONS

Halaken

BY DIANA CLARK

The Mayan greeting “halaken” means “you are another me.” It is the Mayan concept of universal love that sees us all as an integral part of the great universe. The idea views human relationships as based on respect, love, and coexistence; each of us a part of the other. Halaken is the guiding principle for Laura Cueva, President/CEO of Interior Innovations and the name of the building her business now occupies in Syracuse.

Originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, Laura immigrated to the United States and brought with her a passion for interior design and a desire to one day have a business she could call her own. She also brought her preparation. The youngest of twelve children, Laura grew up in a family whose parents were

Halaken: Interior Innonvations 1641 E GENESEE ST, SYRACUSE, NY 13210 PHONE: (315) 724-2599 Laura Cueva PRESIDENT Certifications: N.Y.S. CERTIFIED MINORITY BUSINESS ENTERPRISE N.Y.S. CERTIFIED WOMAN-OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE

Areas of expertise: CORPORATE - EDUCATION GOVERNMENT - HEALTHCARE HOSPITALITY

Practical Cost-Effective Furniture Solutions

PHOTOGRAPHS BY NANCY FORD PAGE 20

“No perder la mirada a donde quieres ir y a donde quieres llegar.”

Laura Cueva, President/CEO Interior Innovations

PHOTOGRAPH BY RICKEY BROWN

dedicated to providing their children with a college education. She holds a Doctorate in Business and has 18 years experience in growing and expanding businesses throughout Mexico before coming to the U.S. In 2013, Laura decided to use that preparation and experience to open her own interior design business. She became a certified MWBE and got to work selling her products, an array of seating, tables, desks, systems furniture, adjustable height furniture, classroom and waiting room furniture, dormitory furniture, and modular

PHOTOGRAPH BY LAURA CUEVA

The Mayan greeting “halaken” means “you are another me.”

walls, among others. With a focus on universities and hospitals, Interior Innovations provides consulting, space planning, specifications, sales, project management, and professional installation. To build her business, Laura hit the pavement to meet with representatives from universities and hospitals. The first few years of her business, it was just Laura in her car traveling along the thruway from Albany to Buffalo by herself.

P APGA EG E2 13 0

Interior Innovations continued

PHOTOGRAPH BY LAURA CUEVA

Now, her company has four employees, and she recently purchased a 51, 000 sqft. multi-use building on Syracuse’s east side. In addition to housing her own business, the Halaken building will eventually hold six apartments, showroom space, and work space for two other small businesses.

"THERE’S MUCH TO DO BUT ALSO MUCH TO BE GRATEFUL FOR.” Laura Cueva

Despite her success, Laura’s journey so far has not been without hiccups. As a new business without local connections, it has taken some time to build up a name for herself. Being a speaker of English as a second language has at times helped her, and at others hindered. Nevertheless, Laura has stayed focused on her goals. When it gets difficult, she remembers a simple phrase, “No perder la mirada a donde quieres ir y a donde quieres llegar.” (Don’t lose sight of where you want to go, whereyou want to arrive).

Laura is proud to be an American citizen and to work with other business ownersin Central New York. Heradvice to aspiring MWBEs? “You have to prepare yourself. You have to strive to get ahead, but you can do it! Get your education. Prepare yourself. There’s much to do,but also much to begrateful for.”

P A GP EA G3 E0 2 2

CERTIFIED CNY

A Directory of New York State Certified MWBE'S in Central New York

QUALIFICATIONS:

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE:

Interior Innovations brings experienced Space Planners, Designers, Account Managers, Suppliers, Manufacturers & Installers together to manage your project from start to finish.

Interior Innovations, Laura Cueva-President/CEO

COMPANY BACKGROUND Interior Designer NEW YORK STATE MBE, WBE OCT 2019 - OCT 2024 Interior Design Services

CONTACT DETAILS Interior Innovations, Inc. NYS Certified WBE NYC Certified MWBE 1641 E. Genesee St, Syracuse, NY 13210 315-724-1985 315-930-3510 info@iicontractfurniture. www.iicontractfurniture.com

OTHER CERTIFICATIONS:

Published with Support from:

NAICS: NAICS 541410 INTERIOR DESIGNER SERVICES NIGP 41000 FURNITURE: HEALTH CARE, HOSPITAL AND DOCTOR'S OFFICE NIGP 42013 CHILDREN'S FURNITURE, INCLUDING STACKABLE TYPES NIGP 42016 DORMITORY FURNITURE, METAL: WARDROBES, BEDS, BUNKBEDS, DESKS, ETC. NIGP 42018 DORMITORY FURNITURE, PLASTIC: WARDROBES, BEDS, BUNKBEDS, DESKS, ETC. NIGP 42020 DORMITORY FURNITURE, WOOD: WARDROBES, BEDS, BUNKBEDS, DESKS, ETC. The company specializes in Interior Design, Decorating, Space Planning, Exhibits and Displays

CNY CATERING CLUB

Catering Club

FEATURED CATERERS

A TASTE OF HONEY CATERING

607-543-0685

CALL FOR DELIVERY Delivering and Catering throughout CNY.

Soulfully rich Amercian, Latin, and Carribean cuisine. Delivered. Take your tastes buds on a vacation. Visit one of these menus today!

ELBITA'S DELIVERS

347-724-0451

CERTIFIED CNY

A Directory of New York State Certified MWBE'S in Central New York

QUALIFICATIONS: Gwen, Inc., is private sector leadership and organization development corporation based in Auburn, New York. Gwen, Inc. clients are CEOs, executive and mid-level managers, and leadership teams in public, private, health care and education businesses and organizations across the country.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE: Gwen Webber-McLeod President/CEO

COMPANY BACKGROUND Consultant NEW YORK STATE MBE, WBE JUNE 2018 - JUNE 2023 Professional and Management Development Training

CONTACT DETAILS 27 Thornton Avenue Auburn, New York 13021 (315) 252-6326 NYS Certified WBE NYC Certified MWBE Myers Briggs Certified Visit our website: gweninc.com Founder You Can't Fail, Inc. youcantfailinc.org

OTHER CERTIFICATIONS:

Published with Support from:

NAICS: 611430- PROFESSIONAL AND MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT TRAINING NIGP 91838 - EDUCATION AND TRAINING CONSULTING NIGP 91875 - MANAGEMENT CONSULTING NIGP 92047 - SUPPORT SERVICES, COMPUTER, INCLUDES COMPUTER NIGP 96102 - ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES, ALL KINDS NIGP 95877 - PROJECT MANAGEMENT SERVICES The company specializes in leadership/organization development, professional facilitation, strategic planning, the development of effective coalitions/collaborations

CERTIFIED CNY

A Directory of New York State Certified MWBE'S in Central New York

QUALIFICATIONS: Gomez Comfort Systems has been serving as a leading HVAC Contractor since 1995. As fullycertified professional, we're ready to tackle anything from the most complex and large scale construction projects to the smallest of repair jobs. Fueled by our commitment to excellence and going the extra mile to make sure our clients are completely satisfied with our work.Call to schedule free consultation today.

CONTACT DETAILS Gomez Mechanical Systems, LLC 503 S. Geddes St. Syracuse, NY 13204 j.gomez61@aol.com 315-516-1847 315-218-6583 www.gomezcomfortsystem.com

SPECIALIZES IN: INDUSTRIAL HVAC INSTALLATION HEAT & GEOTHERMAL PUMP INSTALLATION AIR PURIFIER INSTALLATION ENERGY ASSESSMENT & UPGRADE

Published with Support from:

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE: Gomez Comfort Systems, LLC John Gomez

COMPANY BACKGROUND HVAC/ Air Conditioning NEW YORK STATE MBE AUG 2015-AUG 2020 Heating and Air Conditioning

NAICS: CSI 23: HEATING, VENTILATING, AND AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC) CSI 230: HEATING, VENTILATING, AND AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC) NAICS 238220: HEATING, VENTILATION AND AIR-CONDITIONING (HVAC) NAICS 238220: HVAC (HEATING, VENTILATION AND AIR-CONDITIONING) NIGP 91450: HEATING, VENTILATING AND AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC) This business offers Heating and Air Conditioning, Energy Audits and Energy Conservation services.

NEW YORK STATE BLACK, PUERTO RICAN, HISPANIC AND ASIAN LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY AMIR GETHERS;FACEBOOK

Amir Gethers, Mia Keys-Wade, Nikki Harrison, Kush Cawthon, Chris Montgomery, Joseph Bryant, Ju'hanna Rogers, Cjala Suratt, Duane Owens, Mike Atkins, Tony Davis, and Jery Augustine.

The 49th Annual New York State Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Asian Legislative Caucus was held on Friday, Feb. 14th-Feb 16th. in Albany, NY. According to the NYSBPRL website, "The New York State Association of Black and Puerto Rican Legislators, Inc. (the Association) was organized more than three decades ago to bring elected officials, stakeholders, the business community, and community and faith-based leaders to New York’s State Capitol annually to advocate for inclusion of communities of color in the state budget process; to gain an understanding of that process. This fundamental goal has not changed, nor will it, nor should it ever be."

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY NYSABPRL

New York State Association of Many elected officials, faith based leaders, and members of their respective communities travel to celebrate in New York's Capital for the annual event.

To learn more about the New York State Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic, and Asian Legislative Caucus log onto www.nysabprlinc.org.

Black, Puerto Rican, Asian and Latino Legislators, Inc. attend the 49th Annual Conference.

PAGE 27

CERTIFIED CNY

A Directory of New York State Certified MWBE'S in Central New York

QUALIFICATIONS: We offer full service residential, multifamily and commercial HVAC installations. We promote energy efficiency products and controls.

We can provide you with a full consultation to explain all of your available options so that you can choose the heating or cooling system that’s right for your home or business.

CONTACT DETAILS Heat and Cool Solutions, LLC. Mr. Andrew James 5858 East Molloy Rd - Suite 107B Syracuse, NY 13211 315-280-8890 310-928-1968 andrew@heatandcoolsolutions.comWE www.heatandcoolsolutions.com

OTHER SERVICES: As a Trane Dealer, we can offer you the best rated furnace and AC brand on the market. We hope to exceed your expectations by striving to be the best HVAC Contractor near Syracuse, NY.

Published with Support from:

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE: Heat and Cool Solutions, LLC - Andrew James

COMPANY BACKGROUND HVAC/ Air Conditioning NEW YORK STATE MBE NOV 2016-NOV 2021 Heating and Air Conditioning

NAICS: NAICS 238220 HVAC (HEATING,VENTILATION AND AIR-CONDITIONING) NIGP 91036 HEATING, AIR CONDITIONING, AND VENTILATION MAINTENANCE, REPAIR AND INSTALLATION SERVICES NIGP 91450 HEATING, VENTILATING AND AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC) This business offers Heating and Air Conditioning, Energy Audits and Energy Conservation services.

CERTIFIED CNY

A Directory of New York State Certified MWBE's in Central New York

QUALIFICATIONS:

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE:

Onondaga County's First & Only MBE Master Plumber

NJ JONES PLUMBING, LLC-Principal, Nadonte Jones

COMPANY BACKGROUND Licensed Plumber NEW YORK STATE MBE MAR 2020- MAR 2025 •New York State Certified Plumbing Apprenticeship Approved

CONTACT DETAILS NJ Jones Plumbing LLC 305 N Crouse Ave, Suite 2 Syracuse, New York 13203 Phone: 315.299.4693

PAST PERFORMANCE: National Veterans Resource Center PriceRite, Syracuse NY Joint School Construction Contracts < $100, Our employees are certified and registered through both Onondaga County Department of Water Environment Protection Plumbing Control, as well as our New York State Department of Labor certified apprenticeship program which gives our plumbers the ability to do plumbing work locally as well as Nationwide.

Published with Support from:

NAICS: 238220 BATHROOM PLUMBING FIXTURE AND SANITARY WARE INSTALL 238220 PLUMBERS 238220 PLUMBING, HEATING, AND AIR-CONDITIONING CONTRACTORS 91468 PLUMBING • Sewer Cleaning, Inspection, & Location, Water Heater Repair / Installation, Furnace Repair / • Plumbing Systems Remodeling / Rehab

SS FUNDING & PROCUREMENT RESOURCES, LLC EMAIL: SARAH@SSFUNDINGRESOURCES.COM PHONE: 1-315-530-2502

SS Funding and Procurement Resources is a leader in providing capital formation support. We work with commercial property owners, developers and business owners to identify, procure and manage both public and private funding opportunities. Taking the worry out of managing your awards and funding programs, we allow you to focus on what you do best, run your business!

CONTACT US TODAY FOR ALL YOUR FUNDING NEEDS.

$10K SCHOLARSHIP FOR NEW YORK STATE CERTIFIED MWBE'S

APPLICANT’S BUSINESS MUST BE CURRENTLY CERTIFIED AS A SMALL OR DIVERSE BUSINESS BY A RECOGNIZED CERTIFYING AGENCY INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO: MINORITY BUSINESS ENTERPRISE(MBE), WOMEN BUSINESS ENTERPRISE(WBE), DISABLED PERSON OWNED,VETERAN OWNED/DISABLED VETERAN OWNED LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, TRANSGENDER (LGBT)OWNED, HISTORICALLY UNDERUTILIZED BUSINESSES(HUB).

BUSINESS OWNER MUST HAVE A MINIMUM OF THREE (3) YEARS’ EXPERIENCE RUNNING THEIR COMPANY. BUSINESS MUST EMPLOY AT LEAST THREE (3) FULL OR PART-TIME EMPLOYEES. BUSINESS MUST HAVE AN ANNUAL SALES VOLUME BETWEEN $300,000 AND$50,000,000(USD).

2020 Applications: March 2 – May 29* Recipients notified: July 13

This Program is brought to you by Bank of America.

Diversify-NY, LLC is not affiliated with Bank of America.

PAGE 34

CERTIFIED CNY

A Directory of New York State Certified MWBE'S in Central New York

QUALIFICATIONS:

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE:

Dreissig Apparel has been providing custom athletic gear and casual apparel to organizations across the country since 1998. Gear Up with the Real Deal!

Dreissig Company/Dreissig Athletic, Marc Jones

COMPANY BACKGROUND Textile Manufacturing NEW YORK STATE MBE NOV 2016 - NOV 2021 Commercial screen printing: Wholesale Trade Agents and Brokers

CONTACT DETAILS Dreissig Apparel Inc. 2002 Teall Ave. Syracuse, NY 13206 (315)-701-1230 (315)-701-1130 www.dreissigapparel.com

DBE CERTIFIED! Services Include: Embroidery Screen Printing, Fabric, Textiles, Sportswear Apparel Dreissig Apparel is coded as a broker for the following categories: Paper Products and Janitorial Products Industrial Supplies Office Supplies and Office FurnitureTechnology Equipment and dry goods.

Published with Support from:

NAICS: 315990 - APPAREL 323113 - SCREENPRINTING 314999 - EMBROIDERY 423840 - INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES 424130 - PAPER PRODUCTS (FOOD SERVICE INDUSTRY) Dreissig provides screen-printing and embroidery services. We customize screen-printing or embroidery per our customer’s specifications

CERTIFIED CNY

A Directory of New York State Certified MWBE'S in Central New York

QUALIFICATIONS:

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE:

R.H.Fire, LLC is a NYS Certified MBE firm that installs, maintains, alters, and services fire suppression systems. We have over 9 years' experience working with wet, dry, vesda foam, and pre-action systems. Our company was established in November 2017. Protect your most valuable assets.

R.H. FIRE, LLC-Principal, Rajahn Hasbin

CONTACT DETAILS

NAICS: 238220- FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEM INSTALLATION 922160 - FIRE PROTECTION

315-807-4018 r.h.firellc@gmail.com Website: www.rhfirellc.com DUNS: 081063069, Union Local #669 2610 South Salina Street Suite 21, Syracuse , NY 13205

PAST PROJECTS: • Griffis Air Force Base, Rome NY • Bellevue Elementary, Syracuse NY • Nottingham High School Syracuse NY • Sherburne Inn Ithaca NY • Contracts > $100, 000

Published with Support from:

COMPANY BACKGROUND Fire Systems/ Sprinkler Installer NEW YORK STATE MBE MAY 2019 - MAY 2022 Cross Connection and Backflow Prevention Testing Certification #12440

This industry comprises government establishments primarily engaged in firefighting and other related fire protection activities. Government establishments providing combined fire protection and ambulance or rescue services are classified in this industry.

CERTIFIED CNY

A Directory of New York State Certified MWBE'S in Central New York

QUALIFICATIONS:

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE:

Sekou Cooke is an architectural practitioner and educator based in Syracuse, NY. He is currently Assistant Professor at Syracuse University’s School of Architecture where he teaches design studios and seminars that value breadth of exploration over formulaic production.

Sekou Cooke Studio PPLC-Principal, Sekou Cooke

SEKOU COOKE STUDIO

COMPANY BACKGROUND ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES NEW YORK STATE MBE MAR 2018 - MAR 2023 Building architectural design services

Sekou holds a B.Arch from Cornell University, an M.Arch from Harvard University, and is licensed to practice architecture in New York and California.

CONTACT DETAILS Sekou Cooke 102 Concord Place Syracuse, NY 13210 347-385-6805 sekou@sekoucooke.com www.sekoucooke.com

PAST PROJECTS: Close to the Edge: The Birth of HipHop Architecture

Published with Support from:

NAICS: 541310-BUILDING ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN SERVICES NIGP 90600 ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES Architectural and Interior Design Services including conceptual design, design documentation, construction administration

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Dear Community Partner, Certify CNY-The Official MWBE directory of Central New York is seeking your support. We are a multiplatformed online magazine dedicated to Central New York based minority and women-owned business enterprises. Our digital directory of

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OUR GOAL: to increase MWBE"S

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that advance MWBE'S in Central New York. Investing and connecting with our community is a social and economic win for our entire business community.

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Sincerly, RICKEY T. BROWN

PAGE 37

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CERTIFY CNY 2020 AD SCHEDULE PAGE 38

Vol. 1 Issue 2 2020

Certify CNY The Official MWBE Directory of Central New York

In loving memory of Anna. C. Brown 1954-2018

Next Issue: Kin Architecture Studio, PLLC

01

Is the State's 30 percent goal out of reach for CNY?

02

How I Raised Half Million Dollars Using Facebook

03

A Dive Into Data: A Look A NYS Contracts In CNY

04