Regional Report, Fall 2012 by Chronogram Media

COMMUNITY

BUS I NES S

EDUCATION

NEW PALTZ

REGIONAL

CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE

TOURISM

REGIONAL

REPORT

FALL 2012

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

Edgewood Consulting & Services conducts a team-building exercise at Vassar College.

ALL FOR ONE, AND ONE FOR ALL

IN THIS ISSUE

s business owners and employees in every industry are aware, the economic struggles we face throughout the nation remain a difficult challenge. The truths of labor present a confounding equation: labor costs continue to rise, wage increases and hiring remain muted, and businesses must ask for greater production from their staff to remain competitive. Now more than ever, maintaining a cohesive and motivated workforce is of paramount importance. Thoughtful organizations of every stripe are discovering that, though no amount of innovation can change the stark reality of rising healthcare costs, new and creative twists on an old standard—team-building—can yield significant results. Continued on p. 12

Local business owners breathe new life into the staid concept of customer

The New Face of Team-Building By Gregory Schoenfeld

Service with a Smile

service with innovative ideas.

The Bottom Line Pattern for Progress Releases its annual Hudson Vallley Housing Report; $20 investment in solar technology in Saugerties.

Member Profiles Hurds Family Farm, Mid Hudson Children’s Museum, New Paltz Kayak Tours, Edgewood Consulting & Services

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

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One of the most well-regarded public colleges in the nation, New Paltz offers nearly 100 undergraduate degrees, 50 masters degrees, 2 post masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree programs and one joint doctoral program. Through its mission of education and civic engagement, New Paltz stands out as an active contributor to the schools, businesses, non-profit organizations and economic vitality of the region and serves as a vibrant intellectual and creative public forum for Hudson Valley residents.

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

We are so grateful for the hard work and commitment this community puts into the Taste of New Paltz

n the subject of experience, the novelist Paulo Coelho wrote, “People never learn anything by being told, they have to find out for themselves.” The opportunity to learn experientially about our workplaces, our colleagues and peers, and ourselves strengthens relationships and enables us to work productively to our fullest potential. Since starting as president of the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce, I have certainly come to appreciate the value of learning by doing. My most recent lesson on the difference between being told and finding out for myself was the intensively hands-on experience of working closely with our allvolunteer committee to produce the 22nd Annual Taste of New Paltz. The Taste is the Chamber’s biggest fundraiser of the year, and does so much to remind all of us in the New Paltz region that we are, in fact, the Gateway to the Hudson Valley. It also reminds us of the value of working together to create a beautiful event. Each and every person involved in the Taste—our proud sponsors, our terrific vendors and their staff, our dedicated volunteers, the thousands of attendees from across the Valley and beyond—plays a vital role in its success by lending a unique point of view, a singular voice, a special personality. We are

so grateful for the hard work and commitment this community puts into the Taste, and take great pride in providing this annual showcase for the best stuff in the Hudson Valley. We’re already looking forward to getting started on the 23rd Annual Taste of New Paltz, Sunday, September 15, 2013. This issue of Regional Report puts a spotlight on the significance of experience, with features on experiential training and the value of customer service, and four Member Profiles focused on ways to experience the Hudson Valley. We’ll also, as always, present our members’ news of note in our Member Updates section, and in our Membership Matters column we’ll introduce some really fantastic news of our own: a brand new website, which will go live on October 1, 2012. Thank you so much for reading. As always, please do not hesitate to contact me regarding any questions, ideas or challenges. We are a resource, so please use us as such. I speak for the entire Chamber staff when I tell you we are genuinely here to serve you. Sincerely,

Michael Smith, President, New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce

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REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2012 3

UPCOMING EVENTS Thursday, October 11

After-Hours Mixer @ Il Gallo Giallo Wine Bar, New Paltz

Join us on a crisp autumn evening to grow your business network, enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres, and get the chance to check out one of the area’s most buzz-worthy new restaurants. Il Gallo Giallo––Italian for The Yellow Rooster––serves modern Italian cuisine in its downtown New Paltz setting, in the former location of 36 Main. Time: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Place: Il Gallo Giallo Wine Bar, 36 Main St., New Paltz Cost: Complimentary to Chamber members; $15 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-2550243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org Wednesday, October 17

October Business Luncheon @ The Terrace Restaurant, SUNY New Paltz, featuring Dr. Alan Chartock of WAMC, Northeast Public Radio

As Election Day 2012 looms large, Dr. Alan Chartock––president and CEO of WAMC/ Northeast Public Radio, professor emeritus at the University at Albany, executive publisher and project director of the Legislative Gazette, and host of the weekly “Capitol Connection” series––brings his deep insight and special perspective to bear on the politics of New York State and national races, and the impact of the 2012 election season. Sponsor: Luminary Publishing Time: 12:00 noon - 1:30 p.m. Place: The Terrace Restaurant, SUNY New Paltz campus Cost: Complimentary to Corporate Partners, $20 for Chamber members; $25 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-2550243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org Friday, October 26

Fall Business Card Exchange @ Mike Arteaga’s Express, Highland

What better way to kick off your Halloween weekend than with invigorating 4

networking in one of the region’s premier health and fitness centers? Celebrating its 10th Anniversary, Mike Arteaga’s Express is a vital part of Mike Arteaga’s Health & Fitness Centers’ 35-year history of service to the Hudson Valley, and a trusted resource for people to make regular exercise a permanent part of their lives. Time: 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Place: Mike Arteaga’s Express, 3425 Route 9W, Highland Cost: Complimentary to Chamber members; $15 non-members Reservations Required. Call 845-2550243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org Tuesday, November 6

After-Hours Mixer @ ElmRock Inn and Harvest Real Food Catering & Events, Stone Ridge

Our annual Election Day mixer! After you cast your ballot, join us to build your business contacts and cultivate your existing relationships while experiencing the world-class hospitality of the recently and gorgeously renovated ElmRock Inn and the fresh, flavorful cuisine of Harvest Real Food Catering & Events. Time: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Place: ElmRock Inn and Harvest Real Food Catering & Events, 4496 Route 209, Stone Ridge Cost: Complimentary to Chamber members; $15 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-2550243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org Wednesday, November 14

November Business Luncheon @ Ship Lantern Inn, Milton, featuring Year End Financial and Tax Planning Panel Join Marc Schain of Schain and Company, CPA, Tom Weddell of Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni and Weddell LLP, CPAs and Louis Werbalowsky of Genworth Financial for an informative and timely post-election financial and tax planning panel discussion. Sponsor: Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni and Weddell, LLP, CPAs Time: 12:00 noon - 1:30 p.m. Place: Ship Lantern Inn, 1725 Route 9W, Milton

Cost: Complimentary to Corporate Partners, $20 for Chamber members, $25 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-2550243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org Tuesday, December 4

After-Hours Mixer @ The 1850 House Inn & Tavern, Rosendale

The newly renovated 1850 House Inn & Tavern, a boutique hotel located along the Rondout Creek, is the perfect setting for our annual Holiday Mixer. You’ll make merry connections and enjoy festive hors d’oeuvres in this historic inn right in the heart of Rosendale. Time: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Place: The 1850 House Inn & Tavern, 435 Main St., Rosendale Cost: Complimentary to Chamber members; $15 non-members Reservations required. Call 845-2550243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org Wednesday, December 12

2nd Annual December Business Dinner: Champagne and Sparkling Wine Tasting @ Tuthillhouse at the Mill Restaurant & Tavern, Gardiner

Our special December Business Dinner is a festive chance to eat, drink and be merry with your Chamber peers. Put some sparkle in your holiday spirit and load up on ideas for your New Year’s Eve celebration with a lively tasting of champagne and sparkling wines with expert Tom Edwards of Fox and Hound Wine & Spirits. Sponsor: KIC Chemicals, Inc. Time: 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. Place: Tuthillhouse at the Mill Restaurant, 20 Grist Mill Lane, Gardiner Cost: Complimentary to Corporate Partners, $25 for Chamber members, $30 for non-members Reservations required. Call 845-2550243 or email info@newpaltzchamber. org. Seating is extremely limited for this event and early registration is strongly recommended. For more information, call the Foundation at 845-255-0243 or email info@newpaltzchamber.org.

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CONTENTS Photo by Lauren Thomas

MEMBER PROFILES Just Do It!

Regional Report checks in with local entrepreneurs who are celebrating the vitality of the region in their businesses: Hurds Family Farm, New Paltz Kayaking Tours, MidHudson Children’s Museum, and Edgewood Consulting & Services.

Stay healthy at any of our 10 Dutchess, Putnam and Ulster county locations.

All For One, and one for all The New Face of Team-Building Now more than ever, maintaining a cohesive and motivated workforce is of paramount importance. Thoughtful organizations of every stripe are discovering that, though no amount of innovation can change the stark reality of rising healthcare costs, new and creative twists on an old standard—team-building—can yield significant results.

YOUR DOG GETS REGULAR CHECK-UPS AND HE DOESN’T EVEN DRIVE. WHAT’S YOUR EXCUSE?

www.health-quest.org/HQMP

service with a smile For Local Businesses, Customer Service Isn’t Just a Concept HQMP2078_PrimaryCare_Counties_FINAL.indd 1 8/27/12 From the new ventures of recent transplants to time-honored local establishments, an accommodating energy is the heart that our local MATERIALS PREPARED BY SEIDEN • 212.223.8700 business community thrives upon, and breathes vibrancy into what may Client: Health Quest Colors: Process: C M Y K AD: Steve x217 otherwise seem a very staid idea: customer service. Spot: N/A

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Release Date: 08.29.12

Pattern for Progress releases its annual Hudson Valley Housing Report; Fonts: growth in the statewide labor force ups New York’s unemployment rate; Ceres Technology announces a $20 million partnership with the U.S. Photovoltaic Consortium. HQMP 2078

EVENT SPOTLIGHT: CHARTOCK TALKs SHOP Alan Chartock, president and CEO of WAMC/Northeast Public Radio, will bring his fierce and iconoclastic intelligence to New Paltz on October 17, speaking at the Chamber Business Luncheon to be held at SUNY New Paltz’s Terrace Restaurant.

Recent Chamber Events

Upcoming Events

Member Updates

Member Renewals

Membership Matters

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Production: Meredith x239 Gotham, Helvetica NeueDeBenedictus, DiGovanni & At Vanacore, Artist: derek Weddell LLP, it is our responsibility tox230 understand your

business from the ground up, to gain insight into your changing needs, to forge long-term relationships built on integrity, harmony, commitment and 4/0 quality, teamwork, New Paltz Regional innovation, and to deliver solutions that fully prepare you to meet the challenges unique to your business.

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“Our purpose is to help our clients succeed” REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2012 5

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NPRCoC BOARD AND STAFF Board Officers CHAIR Chris Drouin Beyond Wealth Management 1 ST VICE CHAIR Frank Curcio Bank of America/Merrill Lynch 2 ND VICE CHAIR Mindi Haynes Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell, LLP, CPAs SECRETARY Constance Harkin Ulster Savings TREASURER Kay Hoiby Free Fall Express, Inc. LEGAL COUNSEL James Yastion Law Offices of James Yastion, PLLC PAST CHAIR Ernie VanDeMark Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp. Board of Directors Tom Edwards Fox & Hound Wine and Spirits Lydia Fitzgerald Charmed Places Planning and Locations Michael Frayler Austin Ryan Optika Richard Heyl de Ortiz Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children Barry Henck Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corp. Glen F. Kubista Glen F. Kubista & Associates Walter Marquez Water Street Market Dr. David Ness Performance Sports and Wellness Craig Shankles PDQ Business Printers Glenn Sutherland Catskill Hudson Bank Susan VanDeBogart St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital Center for Rehabilitation Sue Van Voorhis M&T Bank EMERITUS MEMBERS Robert Leduc Mohonk Mountain House Rick Lewis Riverside Bank Susan VanVoorhis M&T Bank Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation at New Paltz Board OF DIRECTORS Chair Sue Van Voorhis M&T Bank Secretary Theresa Thompson Main Street Bistro Treasurer Michael A. Smith New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce Board member Marsha Jones New York Life Board member Joyce Minard Board member Cathy Sifre Board member Ernie VanDeMark Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp. Chamber Staff Michael A. Smith President Nancy Dodge Director of Membership Janet Nurre Director of Marketing & Communications Joan Geiwat Administrative Assistant

750 Project Founding Members Water Street Market C2G Environmental Consultants Catskill Hudson Bank Empire State Bank Jackson Lewis LLP Luminary Publishing Mohonk Mountain House Rocking Horse Ranch Win Morrison Realty Fox & Hound Wine and Spirits McGillicuddy’s Restaurant & Tap House PDQ Business Printers Ulster Savings Bank Hurds Family Farm Apple Hill Farm Wright’s Farm Minard Farms Tantillo’s Farm Market FRIENDS OF THE PROJECT Kathy Ferrusi 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) Mid-Hudson Pattern for Progress Southern Ulster Alliance 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 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.

Joyce Minard Director of Special Projects SPRING / SUMMER 2012

COMMERCE

NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

REGIONAL

REPORT

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

INNOVATION VS. TRADITION I

t’s an old saw of business practice that you must consistently adapt in order to stay current—and remain successful. Advancements in an almost unlimited range of technology are available, but increasing your technological arsenal is one part of the evolution of a business. While consumers are more tech-savvy than ever, able to access information anywhere, at any time, depending too heavily on the mechanization that technology can provide leaves consumers yearning for that oneto-one, “old-fashioned” kind of attention. Creating an effective blend of old and new requires a thoughtful inventiveness, and many Mid-Hudson Valley businesses are prospering by meeting that challenge.

A SEASONAL GUIDE TO THE MID-HUDSON VALLEY

MEMBERSHIP

DIRECTORY

BUS I NES S NEW PALTZ

IN THIS ISSUE

OLD MEETS NEW IN A CHANGING MARKET By Gregory Schoenfeld

2012 / 2013

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REGIONAL

Great take-out food in the region

CHAMBER

More Than Just Hindsight Business owners tell us the advice they wish they had received when they were starting out and what they wish they knew then that they know now.

A GOOD WALK SPOILED

COMMERCE

Golfing in the Hudson Valley

TOURISM

36 HOURS IN NEW PALTZ Where to eat, stay, shop, and play

The Bottom Line New York’s aging infrastructure; Belleayre Mountain Ski Center management shuffle; economic recovery may be losing steam.

Member Profiles PDQ Business Printers, Associated Abbey Carpet and Floor, Main Street Bistro Alfandre Architecture, PC.

Continued on p. 12

CONNECT

COMMUNICATE

BUS I NES S

COLLABORATE

COMMUNITY

CHAMBER

EDUCATION

REGIONAL

COMMUNITY

NEW PALTZ

TOURISM

EDUCATION

COMMUNITY

BUS I NES S

EDUCATION

2012 CORPORATE PARTNERS LEADING PARTNER Complete Benefit Solutions (COBESO) ASSOCIATE PARTNERS Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp. Ulster Savings SUPPORTING PARTNERS Empire State Bank HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley Health Quest Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union KIC Chemicals Law Offices of James Yastion, PLLC Luminary Publishing M&T Bank Ulster Savings Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell LLP, CPAs

REGIONAL

CHAMBER

COMMERCE

TOURISM

NEW PALTZ REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.newpaltzchamber.org

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. @2012 New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written permission is strictly prohibited. Publishing services provided by Luminary Publishing. www.luminarypublishing.com.

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

RECENT CHAMBER EVENTS 1

1 Satisfied attendees show off their tickets as they decide what to taste next at the 22nd Annual Taste of New Paltz. 2 Rino Mazzella of Rino’s Pizza pulls a fresh, hot pie out of his wood-fired pizza oven, ready for hungry tasters at the 22nd Annual Taste of New Paltz. 3 Christine Hall of Bodymind Massage Therapy, Helen Gutfruend, and Mandy Orcutt of Bodymind Massage Therapy at the Chamber’s August After-Hours Mixer I, held at Toad Holly Pub, Tillson. Gutfruend recently moved on from Bodymind Massage Therapy to pursue a career in art education. 4 Sue VanVoorhis of M&T Bank and Donna Bruschi of New Baby New Paltz at the Chamber’s August After-Hours Mixer II, held at Gadaleto’s Seafood, New Paltz. 5 Back row (left to right: Foundation Board Member Ernie VanDeMark of Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corp.; Foundation Board Chair Sue VanVoorhis of M&T Bank; Foundation Board Member Marsha Jones of New York Life; NPRCoC President Michael Smith; NPRCoC Board Chair Chris Drouin of Beyond Wealth Management; Past-Foundation Board Chair Kathy Ferrusi of Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union; Foundation Board Members Teresa Thompson of Main Street Bistro and Cathy Sifre; and retired Foundation Board Member Sally Cross of SUNY New Paltz. Front row (left to right): 2012 Foundation Special Merit Award winner John Paul Heyl de Ortiz; 2012 Foundation Joyce Minard Scholarship winner Jessica Ridgeway; 2012 Foundation Joyce Minard Special Merit Award winner Kathryn Owens; 2012 Foundation Scholarship winner Kristin Branche. 6 Chef Mark Suszczynski and Kim Weeks of ElmRock Inn B&B and Harvest Real Food at ElmRock Inn, Stone Ridge, at their grand opening ribbon cutting. 7 Darrin Sigfried, owner of Il Gallo Giallo Wine Bar, New Paltz, is joined by his staff, friends, family, and Chamber board and staff members as he cuts the ribbon celebrating his grand opening.

REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2012 7

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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Amy Mosbacher 2 Woodland Drive, New Paltz, NY 12561 845-594-7807 Amy Mosbacher amymosbacher@gmail.com www.massagehudsonvalley.com Massage

Mastercraft Industries 777 South Street, Newburgh, NY 12550 845-565-8850 Fax: 845-565-9392 Howard Goldberg howard.goldberg@mastercraftusa.com mastercraftusa.com Manufacturers, Equipment Rental

Costas & Tate Insurance, Inc. 15 Plattelkill Avenue, New Paltz, NY 12561 845-256-8866 Fax: 845-704-1354 Bonnie Costas costasandtate@gmail.com www.costasandtate.com Insurance Services

New Baby New Paltz 15 Plattekill Avenue, New Paltz, NY 12561 845-750-4402 Fax: 845-419-2384 Donna Bruschi donnagburschi@yahoo.com newbabynewpaltz.com Pregnancy Support

Empire State Bank, NA 275 Main Street, New Paltz, NY 12561 845-561-0003 Fax: 845-451-7878 Anthony P. Costa acosta@esbna.com www.esbna.com Banks For Paws of Ulster County PO Box 1074, New Paltz, NY 12561 Danielle Cardella info@forpawspark.com www.forpawspark.com Outdoor Recreation

New York State Solor Farm, Inc. 871 State Route 208, Gardiner, NY 12525 646-784-4401 Esther Sicari esther@nyssf.com Solar Energy Services O’Connor Davies, LLP 60 East 42nd Street, 36th Floor, New York, NY 10165 212-286-2600 Fax: 212-286-4080 Thomas Kennedy tkennedy@odpkf.com www.odpkf.com Accountants

Genesis Restaurant 401 Main Street, New Paltz, NY12561 845-255-5075 John Gramatikos www.GenesisRestaurantDiner.com Restaurants

Royal King Cleaners 12 New Paltz Plaza, New Paltz, NY 12561 845-255-0460 Fax 845-255-0066 Donna Murray streamer409@aol.com www.rkcleaners.com Cleaning Service

Holiday Inn at Kingston 503 Washington Avenue, Kingston, NY 12401 845-338-0400 Fax: 845-340-1908 Debra Harris dharris@cooperhotels.com www.hikingston.com Hotels/Resorts, Conference Facility

Runaway Woman Productions 136 N. Chestnut Street, Apt. 22A New Paltz, NY, 12561 845-489-8038 Lorna Tychostup tycho56@aol.com www.lornatychostup.com Publishing/Marketing

Il Gallo Giallo Wine Bar 36 Main Street, New Paltz, NY 12561 845-255-3636 Darrin Siegfried Ilgallogiallo@gmail.com www.ilgallogiallowinebar.com Restaurants, Wine and Spirits

Skytop Construction 180 Mckinstry Road, Gardiner, NY 12525 845-401-3720 Stephen O’Herron skytopconstruction@gmail.com www.skytopconstruction.com Construction

Joyful Moments Child Care 85 South Street, Highland, NY 12528 845-883-9069 Eboni Cook joyfulmomentschildcare@gmail.com Child Care/Preschool

Susan Dahlinger Creativity Coach Highland, NY 12528 Coaching - Professional & Life

Law Office of Jonathan E. Koschei P.O. Box 319, Wallkill, NY 12589 845-895-3030 Fax: 845-895-8440 Robin Koschei rbutler@frontiernet.net jonkoschei.com Attorneys - General Practice Mass Mutual Wade Lott wlott@financialguide.com Financial Planning/Investments

Swedesign, Inc. 23 Butterville Road, New Paltz, NY 12561 845-590-3799 Fax: 845-255-0923 Johan Hedlund Johanhedlund@swedesignus.com swedesignus.com Architecture Tommy Top Coat 36 Woodcrest Lane Milton 845-337-9947 Thomas Gallagher topcoattommy@gmail.com Contractors - Home Improvement

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

REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2012 9

CLIENT RELATIONS

SERVICE WITH A SMILE For Local Businesses, Customer Service Isn’t Just a Concept By Greg Schoenfeld

Northern Hospitality

For Bluestone Cottage Bed and Breakfast owner Heidi Racioppo, that special invitation is not only the root of her business plan, it is the draw that convinced her that the Hudson Valley would be her true home back in 1971. Racioppo has transformed the magical High Falls house where she once raised her own family into a safe haven for the larger family she calls her customers. Touting the slogan of “Your home away from home in the Hudson Valley,” she delivers just that; her exceptional service stems from the golden rule rather than the bottom line. “It all comes from my own desire to have a great place to sleep and relax,” says Racioppo. I’ve been away from home a lot in my life, and all I ever wanted to do was come back to the comfortable place that I had created. When there’s no place like home, you’ve got to be the next best thing.” From finding out the details of their lives to preparing specialty breakfasts, Racioppo gives her visitors the kind of custom-tailored attention that keeps them coming back: she 10

Photo by Lauren Thomas

n every forum imaginable—from tourism websites, to a table at the Main Street Bistro—there is an ongoing conversation about the indefinable appeal that makes the New Paltz region so unique. Certainly, that quality lives in the area’s rich history, in the one-of-a-kind vistas of Sam’s Point, and in the rows of Rondout Valley sweet corn. Yet the area’s draw, its invitation, is not simply static; it is alive and perpetual, growing each time a resident smiles welcomingly to a firsttime visitor on North Front Street. From the new ventures of recent transplants to timehonored local establishments, that energy is the heart that our local business community thrives upon, and breathes vibrancy into what may otherwise seem a very staid idea: customer service.

Donna Manger-Weil of DM Weil Gallery

We want people to know that fine art can be fun— it doesn’t need to be intimidating. —Donna Manger-Weil, Owner, DM Weil Gallery

estimates that 60 to 70 percent of her business are repeat guests, each returning as a friend as much as a client. To Racioppo, the satisfaction she engenders is its own reward. “It’s not about the money,” she explains. “You may not make a fortune, but you can make a fortune in friendships.” Even in situations where superior attentiveness might not normally be expected, the region is full of pleasant surprises—and there is no more telling example than Highland’s FirstCare Walk-In Medical Center. Owner and Medical Director Dr. Steven Weinman has been dispensing his unparalleled brand

of care since 2008, after opening his facility with a mind toward breaking new ground within the medical care industry. “We wanted to have something that was unique,” says Weinman, “something that really hadn’t been done. Unfortunately, customer service and medicine have been mutually exclusive terms.” Searching for the proper model, Weinman found it in nothing less than the precepts of New York’s acclaimed Ritz Carlton hotel. “Their motto is ‘Ladies and gentlemen serving ladies and gentlemen.’ That’s us, that’s what we’re about.” From mindful, positive front desk attention to the audio-visual systems that grace each examination room, Weinman’s inspiration to go above and beyond industry-standard service came from more than just anticipated profit margin. “I knew we would do well—we could have just offered standard service. Though expenses are high to run a doctors office, it’s worth it to create a positive environment.” At last count, FirstCare’s customer approval rating was at 99.5 percent.

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

The New and the Old

One of the areas newest businesses is Donna Manger-Weil’s New Paltz-based DM Weil Gallery, where she offers her unique brand of abstract art as well as her singular approach to customer service. She has already become a well-established part of the business community, offering a warmhearted vibe that is indicative of the area, but not necessarily common to art galleries. It’s all part of Weil’s uncharacteristic approach toward making art accessible. “We want people to know that fine art can be fun—it doesn’t need to be intimidating. We want them to get the same joy out of the art that I get from painting it.” Going the extra mile includes everything from offering a mug of cappuccino, a glass of wine, or a fresh local bakery treat to an invitation to potential customers—and their children—to visit Weil’s studio. Weil and Gallery Manager Ken Aspin will even travel to buyers’ homes to ensure that they are truly satisfied with their “new addition to the family.” “Customer service has always been paramount with us,” says Aspin, “and Donna loves to see spaces where the art will live.” In their first year in business, DM Weil has already risen to the top of Trip Advisor’s list for destinations in the New Paltz area. Finally, when a customer sees the sign that simply states, “We are here to provide you with the highest level of safety and quality service, with clear and honest communication,” they know they’ve come to the right place: Scott Cullen’s Jenkinstown Motors. The beloved local institution that Cullen has built over the last 35 years has been based solely upon that very simple ethic, and the proof of its success is evidenced by his customers’ longstanding loyalty. After serving generations of local clients, Cullen’s philosophy of honest, responsible, and timely work is a blueprint for successful customer service, and makes his business an integral part in lives of the community. “What I like about this industry is working with clients, and watching their families grow,” says Cullen. “I like being that piece in the community. That’s not Sears or Wal-Mart—it’s people taking care of people. That’s part of being a community business.”

In her fight against breast cancer... Kim chose to stay here.

Kim Costello Mother • Fighter • Hero

For many women, the choice is clear. Like Kim Costello, who chose to be treated by Dr. Zoe Weinstein and the caring, dedicated experts at the HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley after her breast cancer diagnosis. Now every woman in the Hudson Valley has even more of a reason to be hopeful, with the new Fern Feldman Anolick Center for Breast Health. Located at Benedictine Hospital, the Center oﬀers advanced, comprehensive breast health services to the region. Come learn why 99% of women diagnosed here choose to continue their care with us.*

(845) 334-HAHV (4248)

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* 2010 Data: Benedictine Hospital Cancer Registry Database

Thomas A. Dee Cancer Center • 111 Mary’s Avenue, Kingston, N.Y. 12401

REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2012 11

ALL FOR ONE, AND ONE FOR ALL

continued from front cover

Though certain forms of team-building programs and exercises have long been an accessory to businesses, the application of the concept has come a great distance from just a weekend barbecue. Various avenues towards creating trust and comfort in the workplace help instill a sense of ownership, which translates into greater efficiency and effectiveness. “You need to create a common language and culture,” explains Edgewood Consulting & Services owner Ekaterini Vlamis, “and that happens with greater communication.” For Vlamis, one of this issue’s featured business owners, instilling that mutual reliance and cooperation is her stock-in-trade. She has worked with groups of all kinds—from corporations to church groups, from nonprofits to a youth program at Mohonk Preserve—employing a background in experiential education, and utilizing training that implements physical problem-solving challenges to achieve results. Though she also works on-site, Vlamis—a licensed hiking guide and certified wilderness first responder—ideally likes to use the outdoors as her classroom, finding that the change of setting gets the best results. “Getting people out of the office, getting to really know their colleagues, makes them more likely to be trusting,” says Vlamis. “I ask everyone to participate fully, physically and emotionally, and get ready for success.” That success comes in the form of greater confidence and mutual respect, which equals that valuable productivity. “With the costs of hiring today,” Vlamis asserts, “it’s cost effective to create that collaborative environment.” Kathleen McQuaid Packard, owner of Greenville’s KathodeRay Media, couldn’t agree more. Packard credits a healthy interactive environment as an essential element in building her business successfully amidst challenging economic times. “I usually try not to even use the term ‘employee’,” says Packard. “I like to use ‘team member’ instead.” The method behind KathodeRay’s effectiveness, in fact, lies in its team-based format: She has created dedicated teams within the company, each with a carefully appointed team leader. For Packard, cultivating positive

Photo by Michelle Williams

The Team’s the Thing

Karma Road

working relationships isn’t just an ideal, it’s of make-or-break importance. Team leaders are personality-matched with clients, and then free to make independent decisions about how best to manage them. “I know they’re people I can rely upon,” explains Packard, “and they know they have my full backing on their decisions for that account. I wouldn’t hand that off if I didn’t have the confidence in that team.” This mutually reliant environment frees Packard to focus on other aspects of the business, and everybody benefits. “I wouldn’t be able to grow the business if I had to be involved in every single decision,” Packard says. “By trusting my team leaders and team members, it makes it possible for this business to grow and to thrive.” For Packard, the process of maintaining the proper atmosphere is an all-encompassing one, beginning with carefully selecting each new employee and then placing them within a team that works best. Though high unemployment rates seem to make it a “buyer’s market” for employers, Packard puts a high premium on the satisfaction level of her personnel. “It’s difficult to find the right team members, and we want them to stay, and be happy here,” she says. “Hiring is expensive, and it causes stress for everyone else—so to me a mis-hire is very costly.” From weekly information-sharing meetings, to a yearly trip to nearby Zoom Flume amusement park, what Packard works hard to create is something that goes above and beyond just the bottom line. “Many friendships develop here, and that means to me that they enjoy where they work,” Packard concludes. “To me, that’s the best measure of success.” Power to the People

From small business to large, companies are finding that developing a sense of ownership

and interactivity amongst employees is a mechanism for prosperity. John Maserjian, Central Hudson Gas & Electric’s Director of Media Relations, reports that team building is a cardinal element in the organization’s success. “We try and cultivate team building wherever we can,” says Maserjian, who makes clear that creating a more complete environment results in not only a more pleasant workplace, but a far more economical one. Maserjian proudly points to the organizationwide Bridge to Excellence program in which employees submit ideas for improving its processes through an internal website, then form teams that study and implement those improvements. “It can range from streamlining a paper process to looking at how we dispatch crews during emergencies,” describes Maserjian, “and it’s an invaluable experience for the people on these teams—getting to know others, better understanding how other parts of the company operate.” And the best news is that it helps customers’ bottom line, as well. According to Maserjian, since the project began two-and-a-half years ago, there has been $8.7 million in labor time and direct expense savings, much of that getting passed on to the customer. Another path to interactive progress, says Maserjian, comes through giving back to the community. “Volunteerism is big here. It’s a key part of our culture,” he explains. Employees create teams to participate in fundraising, and it gets us working together, socializing, and supporting the community through a variety of activities.” Annually, Central Hudson groups participate in charity events like the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk in Kingston, and the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life in Saugerties. Finally, company-wide family

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“We treat guests with great respect and honor, they in turn return the sentiment, and that feels good for everyone.” —Jennifer Branitz, Co-owner, Karma Road

activities, culminating with the yearly party with employees and their children, helps to make a balanced environment. “It reminds us we’re all in this together,” says Maserjian.

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Approaches to building a positive workplace emanate from every angle, and apply in every business setting. As Dietician and Nutritional Counselor Vicki Koenig points out, working to design a workplace where proper nutrition and wellness is the rule rather than the exception can only serve to make a more successful staff. “When you’re healthy, you’re more productive and happier,” Koenig simply states. “Obviously, there is a serious health problem in this country. When there is a work environment where the team is striving to be healthier, it can have quite a positive result.” Koenig’s philosophy meshes perfectly with that of Karma Road, the Village of New Paltz vegetarian restaurant that has become an established town favorite. Owners Seth and Jennifer Branitz describe their business as “an empowering gathering place and a springboard for self-improvement,” and that spirit extends to their employees as well as their customers. According to Seth Branitz, a healthy, trusting, and cooperative staff means a smoother, happier work environment. “We offer an open forum for expressing inspiration and grievances alike so that everyone is empowered and safe,” Branitz explains; and, as any customer will tell you, the appeal that creates is as healthful as the food they serve. “We treat guests with great respect and honor,” Branitz continues. “They in turn return the sentiment, and that feels good for everyone. This practice of being the best we can be and taking very good care of everyone brings fulfillment to our staff and to the rest of our community.”

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REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2012 13

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MEMBER UPDATES Irene Berner Completes Team in Training Event Irene Berner, CFP of Berner Financial Services completed her third Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training event by hiking into the Grand Canyon. She has raised a total of $14,644 toward finding a cure for blood cancers. Irene hiked the nine-mile Hermit’s Rest Trail in honor of Ilona Kirshenblat, an inspirational 85-year-old woman who has battled leukemia for 21 years. “I feel fortunate for the opportunity to visit an incredible place, meet wonderful people, and have a memorable experience while raising money for a worthy cause.” Berner Financial Services, a New Paltz-based firm offering Financial Planning and Professional Asset Management. Call 845-256-1950 for further information.

Area Hospitals Form Hudson Health Partners, LLC CEOs from three Hudson Valley health systems, representing five area hospitals, including St. Francis Hospital, Poughkeepsie and St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital, announced the formation of Hudson Health Partners, LLC. Collectively the HVHS hospitals represent three counties, and 988,000 people residing in the region, and will focus on quality initiatives and best practices; clinical collaborations; physician and hospital services; employee health; and enhanced efficiency. Each hospital will remain independent and continue to be responsible for its own assets, operations, and liabilities and will continue to operate under the direction and control of their respective governing boards. For more information, visit www.hudsonhealthpartnersllc.com.

SUNY New Paltz Ranked 7th in the Northeast SUNY New Paltz ranked 7th among best public regional universities in the Northeast with both bachelor’s and master’s degree programs according to U.S. News & World Report’s annual college rankings. New Paltz rose in four critical categories used in the rankings—average first-year student retention rates, six-year graduation rates, percentage of first-year students from the top quarter of their high school class, and average alumni giving rate. For the 23rd consecutive year, SUNY New Paltz has led all SUNY university colleges in total applications received, total freshmen applications and total transfer applications. For more information, visit www.newpaltz.edu.

Bob Taylor Receives Wallkill Valley Land Trust Conservation Award The Wallkill Valley Land Trust will present its annual Conservation Award to President Bob

Taylor, celebrating his 15th year in office and the organization’s own 25th anniversary as a force for the preservation of open space in southern Ulster County. Taylor will receive the Award at a gala dinner on Saturday, October 14, from 5-8 pm at Apple Greens Golf Course in the Town of Lloyd. For further information contact the WVLT office by phone (845-255-2761) or online at www. WallkillValleyLT.org.

Unison Art Center Presents The Vanaver Caravan Unison Art Center presents The Vanaver Caravan in a Woody Guthrie Music & Dance Centennial on Saturday, November 3 at Parker Theater, SUNY New Paltz. Nora Guthrie, Woody Guthrie’s daughter, commissioned The Vanaver Caravan to choreograph “Pastures of Plenty,” a dance tribute to the great musical legacy of her father. Hitch a ride across the landscape of America with the Vanaver Caravan’s cast of musicians and dancers in honor one of America’s greatest folk heroes. For tickets or more information, visit www. unisonarts.org or call 845-255-1559.

The Autism Society Teams up with AMC Theatres The Autism Society has teamed up with AMC Theatres to bring families affected by autism and other disabilities a monthly opportunity to enjoy favorite films in a safe and accepting environment with the “Sensory Friendly Films” program. For this unique audience, the movie auditoriums will have their lights brought up and the sound turned down, families will be able to bring in their own gluten-free, caseinfree snacks, and no previews or advertisements will be shown before the movie. Upcoming films include Frankenweenie, Wreck-It Ralph, and Rise of the Guardians. For more information, visit www.autism-society.org/get-involved/events/ sensory-friendly-films.

Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth Launches E-newsletter Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth has a new e-newsletter with updates on the latest happenings in communities statewide as well as on their residential campus. Signing up is simple and safe. Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth is one of New York State’s leading nonprofit child welfare agencies and has a distinguished history of working with children and families for 125 years. Each day, Berkshire serves more than 3,000 children throughout New York State. For more information or to sign up for the newsletter, visit www.berkshirefarm.org.

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 news brief (100-word maximum) to the Chamber office at info@newpaltzchamber.org or 845-255-5189.

Huffington Post Raves About Diamond Mills Diamond Mills Hotel & Tavern was the subject of a rave review by award-winning travel writer Irene S. Levine in the Huffington Post’s blog this past July. Ms. Levine described the service as “warm, friendly and unpretentious,” and the guest rooms as “spacious, light and contemporary in décor … comfortably appointed.” Of the region, she said, “Diamond Mills is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore Saugerties and the surrounding region, which offers abundant activities year-round—including hiking, bicycling, rock-climbing and skiing.” For more information about Diamond Mills Hotel & Tavern, visit www.diamondmillshotel.com.

DM Weil Gallery #1 on Trip Advisor DM Weil Gallery continues to hold the Trip Advisor #1 ranking in Attractions in New Paltz. DM Weil Gallery is perhaps the largest privately owned modern art gallery in the entire Hudson Valley region of New York. The gallery, located at 208 Bruynswick Road, New Paltz, is open weekends and by appointment. For more information and hours, visit www.dmweil.com or call 845-255-3336.

Ellenville Regional Hospital Adds Patient Management Software Ellenville Regional Hospital announced that physicians, nurses, and all clinical staff have begun using new software that gives them quick access to information they need to enhance care for patients in the Ellenville community. Ellenville Regional Hospital purchased the software from Healthcare Management Systems Inc. (HMS) of Nashville, TN, and is also using HMS’ financial system to operate more efficiently and enhance the patient experience, such as making registration easier. For more information, visit www.ellenvilleregional.org or call 845-647-6400. REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2012 15

Pandora’s Bottle Published by Flint Mine Press The e-book version of Pandora’s Bottle by Hudson Valley native Joanne Sydney Lessner and published by Flint Mine Press is now available through Amazon.com, BN.com and the iTunes store, as well as continuing in print in trade paperback. Flint Mine Press is a small publishing group which endeavors to publish works that foster an understanding of the history and culture of New York State, with a concentration on the Hudson Valley region. Flint Mine Press also publishes Hudson Valley Wine, the first magazine celebrating the nation’s oldest wine-producing region. For more information, visit www.flintminepress.com.

Wright Naturals Teams Up With For Paws of Ulster County For Paws of Ulster County teamed up with Wright Naturals, a local handmade all-natural products company located in Tillson, to present their 1st Annual 5k Run/Walk on Sunday, September 29 at the Field of Dreams, Libertyville Rd., New Paltz. The event benefited For Paws of Ulster County, a 501c3 non-profit organization working to establish a dog park in Ulster County in the town of New Paltz. A New Paltz Town Board meeting held on March 22 approved a two-acre parcel of land at the current Field of Dreams location to be designated for the dog park. For more information, visit www.forpawspark.com.

HealthAlliance Employees Join Certified Language Interpreter Program HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley is pleased to announce that employees Elva Arroyo-Schlecht, Freddy Carrasquillo, Felix Castro, Jeanne Eckles, Maricela Estrada, Jenny Jarrette, Dulce Lopez, Rosie McLaughlin, and Claudia Quintanilla have joined its Certified Language Interpreter program. A recent study found that medical encounters with interpreters who received professional training reduced interpretation errors by about half, compared to those with no training. 9.7% and 11.7% of Ulster and Dutchess County residents, respectively, are not native English speakers according to the 2010 U.S. Census. For more information, call (845) 334-3170.

VDDW Launches Mobile App Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni and Weddell, LLP, CPAs is pleased to launch its new mobile app. The app will allow users to email the partners directly with an appointment request, access Google maps and get driving directions to any of VDDW’s offices, access their website, their facebook page, subscribe to their newsletter, locate important links to the IRS website, access the IRS Calendar access, watch videos, leave a testimonial, use one touch call direct feature and much more. For more information, visit www.vddw.com. 16

Central Hudson Reports at September “Power Breakfast” Investments of $660 million in the region’s energy infrastructure, $20 million worth of customer benefits related to a pending merger with the largest utility in Canada, and the latest updates on Smart Grid technologies were among the many energyrelated topics discussed at Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation’s annual “Power Breakfast” held in September on the Newburgh waterfront. To view photographs of the Power Breakfast event and learn more about the latest in energy news, visit Central Hudson’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CentralHudson.

Krause’s Chocolates Opens New Paltz Location Krause’s Chocolates proudly opened its new location at 2 Church Street, New Paltz in April, 2012. The New Paltz store is right off Main Street, across from Barner Books, and is open Thursday through Monday from 12:00 noon until 7:00 p.m. Krause’s offers more than 44 varieties of unique, hand-dipped chocolates, several flavors of creamy homemade fudge and melt-in-yourmouth peanut brittle as well as chocolate novelties, custom molded items and seasonal treats. For more information, call 845-255-1272 or visit www.krauseschocolates.com.

Free Wireless Internet Added at LaBella Pizza Bistro LaBella Pizza Bistro is proud to announce that its dining room now features free wireless internet. LaBella customers can now sit in a comfortable atmosphere, enjoy great food, and surf the web––great for students, working professionals or simply anyone who wishes to check their email. For more information, visit www.labellapizzabistro.com, call 845-255-2633 or stop in at 194 Main St., New Paltz.

Steven Turk and Paul S. Hoffner Appointed to Riverside Bank Board of Directors Riverside Bank announced the appointment of Steven Turk and Paul S. Hoffner to its Board of Directors. Mr. Turk is President and CEO of Rocking Horse Ranch and Splash Down Beach Water Park, and sits on the Dutchess County Tourism Council, the Ulster County Tourism Advisory Board, Vassar Hospital Foundation Board, and the Food Bank of the Hudson Valley Advisory Board. Mr. Hoffner is President of John Herbert Company. Riverside Bank also announced the appointment of Charles M. Andola as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Mr. Andola is COO of United Apple Sales, Inc., has been a board member since March of 1990, and is one of the Bank’s Founders. He replaces Chairman Ira Effron. For more information, visit www.riversidebankhv.com.

Russel Wright Exhibit at the Dorsky Museum The Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art at SUNY New Paltz presents the exhibition Russel Wright: The Nature of Design through December 16, 2012. The exhibition explores the work and philosophy of renowned industrial designer Russel Wright, whose former home in the Hudson Valley— Manitoga—is now a national historic landmark, and focuses on the relationship of humankind with the natural world. A special component of the exhibition—Man and Nature in the Hudson Valley, organized by Kerry Dean Carso, PhD—provides a historical context for Russel Wright’s designs and his interest in natural forms. For more information, visit www.newpaltz.edu/museum.

10th Anniversary of Mike Arteaga’s Express in Highland Mark Arteaga’s Express was pleased to celebrate its 10th Anniversary in Highland on September 10, 2012 with an open house and party catered by The Would Restaurant, featuring a ribbon cutting by the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce, joined by Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce. Mike Arteaga’s Express is a trusted resource for health and fitness information, and a comfortable environment for people to make regular exercise a permanent part of their lives. For more information, call 845-691-6161, visit www. mikearteaga.com, or stop in at Mike Arteaga’s Express, 3425 Route 9W, Highland.

CDPHP Offers Members Access to After-Hours Hotline CDPHP offers its members access to a new afterhours hotline providing emotional support and crisis de-escalation for those in need. CONTACT Lifeline, a program of Family & Children’s Service of the Capital Region (FCSCR), connects CDPHP members with a local mental health professional who will offer a safe and supportive listening environment. The hotline is available from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. weekdays, as well as weekends and holidays and can be reached via the CDPHP Behavioral Health line at 888-320-9584 (a message will prompt callers to select option “1”) or via the crisis line directly at 855-293-0785. For more information, visit www.cdphp.com.

Ulster-Greene ARC Donates Computers to Computers4Needy Ulster-Greene ARC has 100 computers scheduled for replacement that are working but are not current per specifications. Computers4Needy will find new homes for these PCs so that they can continue to be used until the end of their life and provide access to information for individuals who otherwise would not be able to afford a computer. Computers4Needy will gratefully accept donations of any PC or Mac computer under 4 years old in working condition. Call 845 687-9505 or visit www.computers4needy. org to learn more.

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EVENT PREVIEW

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Financial Discussion Panel at November Business Luncheon

hoices you make at the approaching close of the 2012 tax year can make a difference come April. Plan ahead at the New Paltz Chamber of Commerce’s November Business Luncheon, which will feature a general financial discussion panel focusing on end of year tax planning. The panel will consist of Marc Schain of Schain & Company CPA in New Paltz, Tom Weddell of Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni, and Weddell, LLP, CPAs in Newburgh, and Louis Werbalowsky of Genworth Financial. CPA and investment advisor Marc Schain will discuss tax and investment planning through the use of various investment vehicles and retirement accounts. “Most effective tax planning strategies take place during the year rather than waiting until after the year is over,” he says. “The difference of paying an expense on December 31 or January 1 can have a significant influence on your tax liability.” Louis Werbalowsky, a lifetime resident of the Mid-Hudson Valley, became a long-term care specialist because his parents needed extended home and facility care. He works with several accountants, elder law attorneys, and financial planners to help clients keep their estates, family, and quality of life protected. “You can’t predict, but you can prepare,” he says. “Tax planning is a very important area when considering Long Term Care Insurance.” The luncheon, sponsored by Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni, and Weddell, LLP, CPAs, will be held on November 14 from noon to 1:30pm at the Ship Lantern Inn in Milton. The cost is $20 for Chamber members and $25 for nonmembers. Reservations are required, and are taken on a first come, first served basis. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org.

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REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2012 17

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Preserving the beauty of Ulster County’s trees since 1974 INNOVATION VS. TRADITION

From the most delicate pruning to the heaviest removal We do it all with care and precision

IN THIS ISSUE

More Than Just Hindsight

The Bottom Line

Member Profiles

OLD MEETS NEW IN A CHANGING MARKET By Gregory Schoenfeld

Business owners tell us the advice they wish they had received when they were starting out and what they wish they knew then that they know now.

New York’s aging infrastructure; Belleayre Mountain Ski Center management shuffle; economic recovery may be losing steam.

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REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2012 19

THE BOTTOM LINE LEGISLATION AND NEWS THAT AFFECTS YOUR BUSINESS Compiled by Gregory Schoenfeld

Numbers Can Be Deceiving

The River Gets Its Due

From New York City to the Adirondacks, the Hudson River has been designated as a federally recognized National Water Trail. U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar named the Hudson as the most recent addition to the National Water Trails System, a federal program intended to rejuvenate outdoor recreation along waterways throughout the nation, while also serving to protect and restore them. The stretch known as the Hudson Valley Greenway Water Trail, a 256-mile length from Lake Champlain to Manhattan, will benefit from increased national visibility and greater potential for stewardship and sustainability assistance, as well as greater cooperation from the National Parks Service, who administers the Water Trail System. “This new federal designation further underscores the greatness of the Hudson River Valley Greenway Water Trail and will make it more prominent on a national level, which will further enhance the region’s reputation and encourage increased tourism and economic activity,” said Congressman Maurice Hinchey.

Though recent private sector job tallies show promising results, the New York State Department of Labor reports increasing confidence in the job market may have negatively augmented unemployment numbers. An August 17 release from the State shows a 346,900 increase in private sector jobs since November 2009, representing a full recovery of jobs lost during the recession; by comparison, the nationwide average over that same time period is only 44%. According to Bohdan M. Wynnyk, Deputy Director of the Division of Research and Statistics, the last year saw an increase of 100,000 in the state’s labor force, due to a 21.6% drop in the number of “discouraged workers”—those who do not seek employment because they do not believe they will find it. “Growth in our statewide labor force in recent months has contributed to a higher state jobless rate, as more New Yorkers have confidence in the job market,” said Wynnyk. Statewide unemployment numbers have gone from 8.2% in July 2011 to 9.1% in July 2012. The total private sector job count now stands at more than 7.3 million in New York. Pattern for Progress Releases Annual Housing Report

Pattern for Progress released its annual housing report in late September, and found that the region’s housing market is “stuck in neutral.” While home prices are up almost 10% on the national level from July 2011 to July 2012, Hudson Valley home prices have declined in all counties except Ulster and Columbia. Prices are down in Dutchess by almost 3%, Orange County dipped 1.8%, and Sullivan 4.2%,  Home prices a re up 7.6% in Ulster County. The Pattern report identified an unmet demand for services from local housing agencies, a lack of federal and state funding, and insufficient affordable rental units as the region’s most pressing issues. Joseph Czajka, a community development analyst for Pattern, said the transaction volume

of sales in the area has stagnated since 2008. The number of mortgages in foreclosure has also increased in the past year, rising by an average of 1.6 percent in nine counties, with the highest bump being 2.8 percent in Sullivan. However, small decreases in the percentage of 90-day delinquent mortgages are a hopeful sign. “Foreclosure is a two- to three-year process in the state of New York. This backlog has now hit the books and that’s why we’re seeing these drastic increases,” Czajka told MidHudsonNews. com. Pattern for Progress is a Newburgh-based not-for-profit policy, planning, advocacy, and research organization whose mission is to promote regional, balanced and sustainable solutions that enhance the growth and vitality of the Hudson Valley. Greening the Local Job Market

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced a $20 million investment partnership between Saugerties-based Ceres Technology, a nanotechnology producer, and the U.S. Photovoltaic Consortium (PVMC). Ceres, which manufactures equipment for the photovoltaic solar and semiconductor industries, will become one of the PVMC first official suppliers—resulting in over 250 new green energy jobs over the next five years, the company projects. The anticipated, locally sourced jobs will include research and development as well as facilities and manufacturing positions. The PVMC, headquartered at SUNY Albany’s College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, is a $400 million consortium for cooperative research and development committed to championing the increase of next-generation photovoltaic solar systems. “By making critical investments in the growing nanotech sector, New York has made the Capital Region and Hudson Valley the place to be for manufacturers of nanotechnology,” said Lieutenant Governor Robert Duffy. Ceres has also been awarded $764,000 in Excelsior Tax Credits by Empire State Development in order to support the success of the partnership.

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REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2012 21

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EVENT SPOTLIGHT

CHARTOCK TALKS SHOP

WAMC CEO to Speak at October Business Luncheon By Jennifer Gutman

lan Chartock, president and chief executive officer of WAMC/ Northeast Public Radio, has been running the station for over 30 years. He hosts the weekly “Capitol Connection” series which features interviews with New York State politicians as well as “The Media Project,” a weekly discussion between professional journalists about contemporary media issues. Chartock is also the executive publisher and director for the Legislative Gazette, a weekly, student-run newspaper covering New York State government. He is professor emeritus of political science and communications at SUNY Albany where he has won numerous awards for excellence in teaching, and is also the recipient of two honorary doctorates, one for public service and one of humane letters. His syndicated column on politics appears in newspapers throughout New York State, and his column, I Publius, runs in the Berkshire Eagle newspaper each Saturday. Chartock will give a talk on October 17 at SUNY New Paltz’s Terrace Restaurant. Regional Report reached out to him for details. What will you talk about at the October Business Luncheon?

We’ll be talking about the election for president, the election for Congress, and the various districts surrounding New Paltz. What I like to do is find out what everyone has on their mind and ask questions. If I know the answer, I’ll give it, and if I don’t know the answer, I’ll still give it. My style is to overview why things are going to happen or they’re not going to happen. Right now, I’d say Obama wins the election—he’s

several points ahead. But there are other factors in this country that concern me—one of them is racism. There are many other things that could intervene within an election, and we’ve seen some very disturbing things in this country over the last couple of years. I don’t give speeches. I don’t sit down and write a beginning, middle, and end. I often let my tangled mind lead me to see what’s interesting. I look at people’s faces, I take questions, in some cases I get people angry. And I don’t ever like to do that, but I do. So for me to tell you now what I’d be talking about specifically is just something I couldn’t do because, as I often say to people when I’m asked what I prepared, “Well anyone can prepare.” What are your thoughts on the election coverage?

We saw something very interesting in these last conventions—we saw the conventions minimized. In the old days, we’d see the whole convention. We don’t see that anymore—only the key speeches. Almost no one is watching because it’s all preordained. I remember 1956 in Buck’s Rock Camp in New Milford, CT. I was sitting with my counselor listening to the Democratic convention on the radio to see if a young senator would be nominated on the vice presidential ticket—his name was John Kennedy, and he didn’t make it. I sat there transfixed by this because real decisions were being made. That doesn’t happen in political conventions anymore. It’s all pre-scripted. Much of the media is owned. Like Fox, which is anything but news. It’s mediated news—they have values and they let you know about them.

How does this year’s election compare to past years?

In some past elections, we knew who was going to win way into it. One candidate was out in front. That’s not true in this election. It’s very close between Romney and Obama. This will be influenced heavily by what happens in the debates. I think Romney will lose in the debates. He’s not a good debater, he’s not a good speaker—Obama is. Which is why we hear that Romney is taking huge amounts of time off to prepare for the debates. Also, we’ve got a very weak economy, and that’s very much on people’s minds. So that makes it a bit of a crapshoot. Because there are so many people who don’t have jobs, the real question is which of these candidates is more likely to help the economy. Romney says he wants to give tax breaks to people who are wealthier and we’ll have trickle down economics. Obama is more a person who believes that government can solve problems. I happen to agree with him. The CCC [Civilian Conservation Corps] under Roosevelt, you start to employ people, put them back to work, build bridges, you rebuild the infrastructure. That’s something I think Romney doesn’t want to do. October Business Luncheon October 17 from 12pm to 1:30pm. The cost is $20 for Chamber members and $25 for nonmembers. Reservations are required. This event is likely to sell out, and reservations are taken on a first come, first served basis. Call 845-255-0243 or e-mail info@newpaltzchamber.org.

REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2012 23

MEMBER PROFILES Just Do It!

By Gregory Schoenfeld

THE DRAW OF THE MID-HUDSON VALLEY REGION has always been the diverse beauty of its landscape: the breathtaking rise of the Shawangunk Ridge, the rush of the rivers and streams, the invitingly lush fields of plenty. Yet the most special part of that appeal is the invitation to not just admire, but to get involved. NPRCoC members offer countless ways to enjoy and experience—and autumn is the perfect time to get out and take it all in!

MEMBER PROFILE

Hurds Family Farm

or all the people that have come from afar to adopt New Paltz as their fiercely beloved second home, the region’s biggest fans are often those who were simply lucky enough to grow up here. In fact, there’s no place New Paltz Kayaking Tours owner Craig Chapman would rather be. “I love New Paltz,” proclaims Chapman, putting the depth of his sentiment as succinctly as possible, “Let me repeat that: I love New Paltz. This town makes me happy.” According to Chapman, his father— owner of New Paltz’s Hudson Valley Water Resources, Inc.—inspired him to join the ranks of New Paltz business owners. In forming his own business plan, Chapman was certain of one thing: it had to incorporate the local outdoor scene that has been such an integral part of his life. After careful consideration and a stint as a tour guide for Historic Huguenot Street, he found his solution 24

right on the Village’s banks. “The Walkill River is what makes New Paltz what it is,” says Chapman, “just as much as the ‘Gunks or Mohonk.” Chapman launched his plan—and his boats—from New Paltz’ Sojourner Truth Park this past May, certain that he had found a true “win-win” situation. “I kept thinking to myself even if no one comes out to rent a boat,” Chapman jokes, “at very least I’ll be down by the river every weekend.” As opposed to whitewater tours that appeal only to thrill-seekers, Chapman offers the river’s tranquility as a central selling point—something anyone can enjoy. “The trip down the Wallkill River gives tourists and locals alike a chance to go have a peaceful, calm, and beautiful trip,” Chapman explains, recalling an 85-year-old couple that were some of this summer’s most satisfied customers. Looking forward, the New Paltz native plans to add a more challenging tour

running from Gardiner to New Paltz, and special weekday tours at some his other favorite sites, like Highland’s Chodikee Lake, are also in the works. For Chapman, this is just another chance for showing and sharing his appreciation for the area. “One of my biggest things is giving back,” says the man who runs New Paltz’s youth basketball program. “Being a part of this whole community is right where I’m at, and what I am trying to do.” HURDS FAMILY FARM  Physical address: 2187 State Route 32, Modena, NY, 12548  Mailing address: P.O. Box 403  Clintondale, NY 12515 (845) 883-7825 Phil, Susan, and Charles Hurd www.hurdsfamilyfarm.com

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Photo by Lauren Thomas

MEMBER PROFILE

New Paltz Kayaking Tours

solution right on the Village’s banks. “The Walkill River is what makes New Paltz what it is,” says Chapman, “just as much as the ‘Gunks or Mohonk.” Chapman launched his plan—and his boats—from New Paltz’ Sojourner Truth Park this past May, certain that he had found a true “win-win” situation. “I kept thinking to myself even if no one comes out to rent a boat,” Chapman jokes, “at very least I’ll be down by the river every weekend.” As opposed to whitewater tours that appeal only to thrill-seekers, Chapman offers the river’s tranquility as a central selling point—something anyone can enjoy. “The trip down the Wallkill River gives tourists and locals alike a chance to go have a peaceful, calm, and beautiful trip,” Chapman explains, recalling an 85-yearold couple that were some of this summer’s most satisfied customers. Looking

forward, the New Paltz native plans to add a more challenging tour running from Gardiner to New Paltz, and special weekday tours at some his other favorite sites, like Highland’s Chodikee Lake, are also in the works. For Chapman, this is just another chance for showing and sharing his appreciation for the area. “One of my biggest things is giving back,” says the man who runs New Paltz’s youth basketball program. “Being a part of this whole community is right where I’m at, and what I am trying to do.” NEW PALTZ KAYAKING TOURS  Sojourner Truth Park, Plains Road  New Paltz, NY 12561  (845) 594-6353  Craig Chapman craigchapman1214@yahoo.com

REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2012 25

MEMBER RENEWALS THANK YOU! Adagio Guest House Adventure-Junction.com Alfandre Architecture, PC American Heart Association Angelynn F. Pinto, Psy-D, LLC Arrow Promotions Artco’s Copy Hut Bank of America Beek’s Auto Birchez Associates Bright Beginnings of New Paltz

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Brookside Farm

Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum

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s any parent or teacher will tell you, the way to truly instill learning in children is through interactive experience. The embodiment of that approach in the Hudson Valley is Poughkeepsie’s MidHudson Children’s Museum: in fact, it’s right in the museum’s vision statement: “to be an extraordinary educational beacon in the Hudson River Valley where discovery leads to lifelong learning for all.” What started in 1989 as a grassroots effort by a handful of volunteers is now a celebrated regional institution, one where hands-on learning is the rule. “It’s place-based education,” explains Sara Capozzoli, director of marketing and community relations. “It’s the concept of teaching about where you are.” The museum’s location on the banks of the Hudson allows them to use the river as a living classroom, offering an unrivalled opportunity for young visitors to connect with the vibrancy of the valley. “It is a huge part of what we do—taking the children out to the river,” says Capozzoli. “They’re experiencing it, rather than just explaining. It so different than reading it in a book—it takes learning to a whole other level.” The museum’s range of programs—which includes outreach efforts that take Lead Educator Lisa DiMarzo to classrooms and libraries

from Westchester to Connecticut—all focus on that same approach, instilling awareness through experience. Other museum features that await visitors include a Native American workshop which celebrates the regions original inhabitants, as well as a perpetually updated, interactive art center. Under the direction of new Executive Director Lara Litchfield-Kimber, the museum is making strides to involve an even wider swath of visitors from the region, and beyond; for example, the Metro-North Railroad now offers a “one-day getaway” package that strengthens the appeal to down-state parents. Still, the heart of the Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum will always be the region that bears its name. “We see ourselves as a real resource to parents here,” says Capozzoli. “It’s really a continuum of people raising their kids here, and a part of what it is to grow up in the Hudson Valley.” MID-HUDSON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM  75 North Water Street  Poughkeepsie, NY 12601  (845) 471-0589 Sara Capozzoli www.mhcm.org

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MEMBER RENEWALS Hunter Mountain Resort Ingraham Shovel Co. Inn at Orchard Heights Inn at Twaalfskill, Inc Jenkins and Lueken Orchards Katia Gushue Fine Art Studio LaBella Pizza Bistro Law Offices of Steinberg, Manpower International Inc. Masseo Landscaping Mike Arteaga’s Health & Fitness Centers MEMBER PROFILE

Edgewood Consulting & Services

nother area native who has chosen to ply her unique trade in the great outdoors of the Mid-Hudson Valley is Ekaterini Vlamis, owner of Edgewood Consulting & Services. The path that has brought Vlamis back to settle in the shadow of the Shawangunk Ridge has been one led by inspiration to share her very special combination of community-building skill and love for nature. After teaching in nearby Warwick, Vlamis’ quest took her to the outdoor education program at the University of New Hampshire for a Master’s degree in Kinesiology. Now back home, the licensed Hiking Guide and certified Wilderness First Responder offers a plethora of services that help further awareness and communication through outdoor interaction. Though clients of all kinds are invited to join Vlamis on expertly guided hikes through local wonders like Minnewaska and the Mohonk Preserve, what sets her apart is her approach to experiential education and training. “Of course my hikes share our natural resources, the Shawangunk Ridge, with many who otherwise might not experience it on their own,” explains Vlamis, “but I’m really unique in terms of the services I offer and the fact that I can really customize teambuilding and workshop programs.” Teams of all kinds

have benefited from Vlamis’ programs—she cites a range that spans from church groups, to supermarket managers, to a group of postgraduate students from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. To meet a wide range of needs, Vlamis tailors each program to a particular client’s situation. Whether the goal is team, community, or leadership development, the tools she employs are cooperation and communication in order for groups to work through a series of trust-building and problem-solving exercises. Once the process begins, she acts facilitator while the power of the outdoors and the interplay of personalities take care of the rest; and, according to Vlamis’ clients, the results have been exceptional. “It just works,” explains Vlamis. “It works because you’re doing, and you’re discussing, and you’re planning. You’re taking time to spend time with people, and to get to know them better.”

Minnewaska Lodge Moondance Ridge B&B Mountain Skills Climbing Guides Moxie Cupcakes New Paltz Child Care Center Phillies Bridge Farm Project Inc. R. Robertson Red Pump Studio Roots & Wings Sedore & Company Shadow Lawn NY, LLC Shadowland Theatre Ship Lantern Inn Sky Lake Lodge St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital Sunoco Aplus Mini Market Terri Coonrad Hershkowitz PC Tom’s Repair Shop Tracy Clark-Cherry, LMT Ulster County Tourism Van Buren Gallery Van Vliet Orthodontics VISIT vortex

EDGEWOOD CONSULTING & SERVICES  P.O. Box 122  New Paltz, NY 12561  (845) 255-7007  Ekaterini Vlamis www.edgewoodcs.com

WCW Kitchens at Cherry Hill Westwood Metes & Bounds Realty, Inc. Wilklow Orchards Wine Worldwide, Inc. Members who renewed as of September 14.

REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2012 27

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE TOGETHER In this issue, we proudly unveil the Chamber’s brand new website, and give you a glimpse of some fantastic new membership features that are now available.

he New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the launch of our new website, which will go live on Monday, October 1, 2012. The web address remains the same––www.newpaltzchamber.org––but that’s about the only thing that remains unchanged. When we go live, users will encounter an entirely redesigned, dynamic web page with new and improved membership listing features, events, news, and much more. The new website is being developed by WebLink International, a company that works with over 1,500 clients across the country and specializes in promoting businesses online by partnering with associations and chambers of commerce. Our goal with this new website is to dramatically improve how we promote our members and our community online. Our online presence will be easier to use, better optimized for search engines, and designed to meet the needs of both members and the public. With this launch, we expect traffic on our website to dramatically increase, which translates directly to more new business

the opportunity to take advantage of powerful new marketing opportunities. More information coming soon on our new website! We’re so proud to be making this dramatic and exciting technology change, and look forward to using this new tool to provide improved service which will directly impact our members’ bottom lines. Keep an eye on www.newpaltzchamber. org on Monday, October 1. Please call us at 845-255-0243, email us at info@newpaltzchamber.org, or contact us through our new website to provide feedback. Nancy Dodge, Director of Membership

leads to our members from us. Consumers and businesses alike visit www.newpaltzchamber.org seeking information and looking specifically for businesses like those that comprise our membership. Our new website will be even more member-focused and is designed to deliver more exposure and drive more opportunities to our members’ front door. In addition, our members will now have

MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE Nancy Dodge New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce Andrew Ciccone Ciccone Advertising PR & Design Susan Lyke Cooper KeyBank Darryl Lafferty Mid-Hudson Chapter-American Red Cross Brian MacGregor The Valley Group Mike Marinzulich Zulich Financial Lisa Martinez Mutual of Omaha Matt Rocket Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union John Sorlie Empire State Bank Ekaterini Vlamis MS, Edgewood Consulting & Services

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• Fencing • Pet Food & Supplies • Lawn & Garden Supplies

Phone | (845) 255-0050 Fax | (845) 255-7845 145 Route 32 North, New Paltz, NY 12561 (GPS: 145 North Chestnut Street) REGIONAL REPORT FALL 2012 29

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 700 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.

2012 CORPORATE PARTNERS LEADING PARTNER

Complete Benefit Solutions ASSOCIATE PARTNERS

Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp. Ulster Savings SUPPORTING PARTNERS

Empire State Bank HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley Health Quest Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union KIC Chemicals Law Offices of James Yastion, PLLC Luminary Publishing M&T Bank Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell LLP, CPAs

Understanding what’s important®

New Paltz Branch 191 Main Street (845) 255-7100 www.mtb.com

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

No two employees are alike. Most health insurers point you to pre-packaged or bundled health plans. Hardly a choice. At CDPHP® we offer a variety of health care solutions, including plans to fit your business, customized wellness programs, and cost-management tools. All this plus an extended national network of more than 550,000 providers make CDPHP the right choice for you and your employees. To learn more, call your broker or CDPHP at 1.800.993.7299.

power.cdphp.com

Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan, Inc. • Capital District Physicians’ Healthcare Network, Inc. • CDPHP Universal Benefits,® Inc.

257 Main Street New Paltz, NY 12561

COMMUNITY

BUS I NES S

EDUCATION

NEW PALTZ

REGIONAL

CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE

TOURISM

Stephen Hack, VP - Commercial Lending and Susan Benz, AVP / Commercial Loan Officer visit their client, Emergency One, in Kingston

We’re eager to help local businesses grow and succeed! Commercial Mortgages Payroll Services

Lines of Credit Equipment & Vehicle Loans Business Insurance Group Benefits

Our customizable package of products and services make US a great resource for businesses of any type or size. If you’re looking to expand or need financing, contact Stephen or Susan today!

Locations throughout the Hudson Valley • 866-440-0391, ext. 3420 • www.ulstersavings.com

Member

FDIC

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