Business Watch by Niki Jones Agency

THE ORANGE COUNTY CHAMBER

AUG/SEPT 2013

A COMMUNITY AND BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE

HELPING ORANGE BUSINESS GROW

ORANGE PULSE

Buy Orange. Build Orange. Give Orange. Network Orange.

Middletown Community Health Center

Page 5

Spend The Day At EXPO 2013

BUSINESS INSIDER

New features will maximize your attendance AND non-members can join the Chamber at a special discount! Nearly 200 businesses and organizations will be represented at EXPO 2013 on Thursday, September 12 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Anthony’s Pier 9 in New Windsor. In addition to being the largest and most comprehensive business trade show in the region for more than 20 years, the Orange County Chamber EXPO this year is building on the great success of the changes that were made last year, as well as adding a number of great new features, many of which will appeal to consumers as well as businesses. Not only that: as part of a special September Membership Drive, businesses can join the Chamber at EXPO and take advantage of a 10% discount on their membership investment. Visit www.orangenybusinessexpo.com, our comprehensive website for both exhibitors and attendees.

Continued on page 9

No Better Time To Join The Chamber Than In September!

It’s a proven fact: consumers prefer to patronize businesses that are members of their local chamber of commerce. Especially for small businesses, which represent the majority of most chambers of commerce, involvement in a chamber significantly enhances the bottom line. Continued on page 6

Summer is nearly over and it’s time to get back to business. A lot is happening to help you network this fall. See what’s coming up on page 19.

How To Make More Money With Data Driven Decisions

Caught in the Act Award

NYS Program Creating ‘Magnets for Investment’

GROW /EXPAND Making it in OC

Awards & Recognition

Notable People

New Chamber Members

TREND/ INNOVATE

Thousands in free advertising. Become a member at EXPO, get a 10% discount!

NETWORK IT

Simple Trade Show Tips

MAKING IT IN O.C. Wellness Home Care is celebrating 30 years of touching people’s lives. Read about this and news from other local businesses on page 10 and 11.

Is Now the Time For Solar?

INORANGE Shop Locally. Earn Rewards.

Upcoming Events

Upcoming Meetings

Business Watch is now on

Facebook & Twitter

Newburgh, NY 12550 PERMIT NO. 234

PAID

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

A Message from the President Just about a year ago, the business community was heartened when the NYS Supreme Court ruled that the now infamous MTA payroll tax was unconstitutional. To our great disappointment, that ruling was recently overturned by the Appellate Division of the State Supreme Court. This decision isn’t the end of our fight against the grossly unfair MTA payroll tax. Rather, the fight has begun again, with renewed resolve to find a way to eliminate the tax or, at the very least, make it a far more equitable one. If we can’t find a judicial solution, we’ll fight for a legislative one.

Janice Valentino

Director of Marketing and Development Hospice of Orange & Sullivan Counties, Inc.

Sharon B. Warantz

President, Jellybean Promotions

Scott Wohl

OFF ICE RS Charlie Milich | Chairman of the Board

Executive Officer of Builders Association of the Hudson Valley

President, The RAL Supply Group, Inc.

Thomas Sullivan | Chair-Elect President/Owner, Smith, Seaman & Quackenbush, Inc., Funeral Homes

Ralph Martucci | First Vice Chairman President, Ralph Martucci, Jr.

Michael Turturro | Second Vice Chairman

Manager, Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell

Dr. Michelle Koury | Secretary

Chief Operating Officer, Crystal Run Healthcare

Tim Scannell | Treasurer

CFO, Mobile Life Support Services, Inc.

Donna Johnson-Klonsky | Immediate Past Chairman

President, DJ Consulting Services, Inc.

John A. D’Ambrosio, Ed.D. | President Orange County Chamber of Commerce

Nicholas Illobre | At Large

President & CEO, Knapp Quest HR

John McDermott, III | To Rest Is To Rust Member

President, 17K Property Group, L.L.C.

BOAR D OF D IREC TORS Renee Bulla

Vice President, Client Services Momentum Advertising & Design

COUNSEL TO THE CHAMBER Glen L. Heller, Esq. Partner of Drake, Loeb, Heller, Kennedy, Gogerty, Gaba & Rodd, PLLC.

EMERITUS BOARD MEMBERS Dr. Arthur C. Anthonisen Thomas C. DeBenedictus F. Edward Devitt Katharine Fitzgerald Thomas F. Gibney Patricia Gilchrest Stewart P. Glenn, Esq. Robert Heiferman, Esq. Louis Heimbach Woody Levitan Anthony P. Martine Renee McCabe - Lempka Carole S. McDermott Marsh H. Merrill Ralph L. Mills Dr. Kunwar Nagpal Peter Polhamus Dreena Pross Milton Ritter Robert W. Scherreik A. Alan Seidman James Smith William F. Vacca Jill M. Varricchio

Even before the state legislature approved the payroll tax back in 2009, the Orange County Chamber went to battle against it. From the very beginning, the Chamber believed that the only real victory would be total elimination of the tax. To that end, we initiated the legal action to have it declared unconstitutional. I and a few other Chamber representatives met with Howard Protter and Michelle Babcock at the law firm of Jacobowitz and Gubits and J&G was officially retained “to represent the Orange County Chamber of Commerce, Inc. in a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality and legality of Chapter 25 of the 2009 Sessions Laws of the State of New York (the “MTA Employer Payroll Tax”).” The litigation was undertaken in association with three other J&G clients: the towns of Blooming Grove and Crawford and the Village of Highland Falls.You can imagine our delight when the Supreme Court ruled in our favor. A year ago, though, we knew that the Supreme Court’s decision would be appealed, but it was gratifying to know that so many others agreed with the business community that the MTA’s fiscal problems shouldn’t be solved on the backs of those who barely use their service. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, with even more vigor: Your Chamber will continue to fight the MTA payroll tax. We’ve signed on to the lawsuit that is appealing the most recent court ruling and are continuing to pursue legislative options as well. Make no mistake about it: this fight will continue.

John A. D’Ambrosio, Ed.D., President

Susan Crocker

Owner, Holbert’s Catering/ The Back Yard Bistro

Eric Fuentes

Manager, Public Affairs with Orange & Rockland Utilities

Kenya Gipson

Account Executive, Clear Channel Media & Entertainment

Edison Guzman

President, A&E Advertising and Web Design

Richard Heslin

General Manager, Stewart International Airport

Johann Huleatt

Outreach Director, Community Products, L.L.C.

Father Kevin Mackin

President, Mount Saint Mary College

Eric Maldonado

Director of Business Development & Operations Verizon Wireless Zone

ENTREPRENEURS WANTED!

Marcel Martino President, Inspire

Russ Martinson

SUITES AVAILABLE

Joann Menendez

If you’re ready to move out of your home office into professional Class A office suite and R&D space with plenty of colleagues and support, visit the Orange County Business Accelerator (OCBA)

Partner, Cooley Group Vice President of Marketing Walden Savings Bank

Karen Miller

Communications Manager, Frontier Communications

Karl Najork

Vice President, Collection Bureau of the Hudson Valley

Terry Olivo

Chief Operating Officer, Orange-Ulster BOCES

Dr. William Richards

SUBSTANTIALLY BELOW-MARKET RATES • Mentoring services • Free racking space • Access to venture capital, plus micro loan funding

• Access to academic and corporate partners • Easy on/off highway access to I-84/ I-87

Contact Peter Malone, Development Director pmalone@ocaccelerator.com or 914.213.2863

President, SUNY Orange

Kathleen Sileno

Major with 105th Airlift Wing

William Sivillo

President, Captain’s Club Cruises & Tours

Josh Sommers

President, Focus Media, Inc.

New York International Plaza at Stewart Airport | 4 Crotty Lane, Suite 100, New Windsor, N.Y. 12553 www.ocaccelerator.com

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

Simple Trade Show Tips By June Bisel

THE ORANGE COUNTY CHAMBER

Trade Shows are a valuable investment for your business and your performance is based on the magnetism of your display, your ability to communicate quickly and effectively about your product/service, the materials you provide and most of all, your follow up. There are specific things you can do to maximize your return on this investment.

CHAMBER STAFF

Pre Show: Invite as many people as you can! Let them know where you will be and offer various types of incentives to show up: “Make sure to stop by and pick up some free samples” or “Don’t forget to come over, say hi and enter into a drawing to win a gift certificate!” Most shows provide you with a list of people who have pre-registered or other vendors (ask the Chamber for the EXPO 2013 exhibitor list). Use this list to send direct mail or e-mails beforehand and encourage them to visit your booth. Make sure you have a focused message going into the trade show. Talk to your staff beforehand; make sure everyone is on the same page. We recommend picking just two or three key ideas that you want to get across at the show and train yourself and staff to "stay on message.” For example, purely sell your new product or inform people about how eco-friendly your service is. Design your graphics, pre-show promotion, literature and show directory advertising around your message. Keep things integrated.

Dr. John A. D’Ambrosio, President drjohn@orangeny.com Ellen Daley, Vice President, Communications ellend@orangeny.com Bill Fioravanti, Vice President, Membership billf@orangeny.com June Bisel is a partner with BBG&G Advertising, Inc. in Campbell Hall. More information is available by calling 845-615-9084 or visiting www.bbggadv.com.

Rudy Hoke, Vice President, Administration rudyh@orangeny.com Carol Smith, Vice President, Government carols@orangeny.com Roseann Bouzakis, Director of Events roseannb@orangeny.com

Show time: Make attendees intrigued by your booth, ensuring that they stop by instead of walking right on by.You don't have to spend a lot of money to make your booth visually appealing, just make sure to put your products front and center and put the people manning the booth out of the way. Think about it like this: don’t you hate having to deal with sales staff the first thing as you walk into a business? Most trade booth workers are going to be aggressive; yet people like to be left alone to look, touch and play with your product first. Make sure you acknowledge the people approaching as well as pay attention to become available once they have a question. Just let them explore on their own first.

Cheryl Cohen Director of Membership Investment cherylc@orangeny.com

Post Show: Naturally, since you were in touch with attendees before and during the show, it is crucial that you are in touch with them after the show as well. If you had a“bowl”for people to enter their names/business cards in for a prize, use that information to reach out and send a personalized e-mail thanking them for stopping by your booth. Encourage them to“Like”you on Facebook or direct them to your website. If you had a sign-in sheet, take that list and reach out to those people acknowledging that you appreciated them stopping by.

Wendy Melick Information Technology Specialist wendym@orangeny.com

As you gain experience and improve your trade booth skills, you will achieve greater results. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at BBG&G if you need any materials, designs, posters, etc. for your next trade show!

HOSPICE

Caring • Comfort • Compassion

There is a choice

845-561-6111

Karen Hartley Sawyer Manager of Community Partnerships karens@orangeny.com

Valerie Gross Membership Services Coordinator valerieg@orangeny.com Publication of the Orange County Chamber of Commerce © Copyright 2013 The Orange County Chamber Business Watch is not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes or misprints. All advertising, including photographs are the property of Niki Jones Agency, Inc and not that of the advertiser. The advertiser has purchased rights of reproduction in the Orange County Chamber Business Watch and does not have the right to reproduce ads in any other place or publication without written permission from the publisher. The Orange County Chamber Business Watch reserves the rights to exercise its discretion in the selection of advertisement. Publisher Niki Jones Agency, Inc. 845.856.1266 • info@nikijones.com 39 Front Street • Port Jervis, New York 12771 Editor Ellen Daley 845.457.9700 • ellend@orangeny.com 30 Scott’s Corners Drive Montgomery, NY 12549 Advertising Sales Olga Zernhelt 845.754.2356 • businesswatch@nikijones.com 39 Front Street • Port Jervis, New York 12771 OCCC Logo Design AJ Ross Creative Media

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

BUSINESS INSIDER

How To Make More Money With Data Driven Decisions Metrics is what we use to measure success. However, data is much more than that. It is a valuable tool to make solid business decisions. It also helps you save and make money. Below are some metrics you can use to help grow your business. It is far more effective to up- or cross-sell an existing customer than to acquire a new one. Unfortunately, most businesses are busy getting new business and fulfilling orders and not also leveraging the gold mine of existing customers. By collecting the information below with a database and/or accounting system, you can track your customers.

By Cynthia Marsh-Croll Cynthia Marsh-Croll is Manager of the Chamber’s Entrepreneurial Assistance Program, and can be reached at 845-457-9700 or cynthiam@orangeny.com.

“Customer Lifetime Value (CLTV) is a formula that helps a marketing manager arrive at the dollar value associated with the long-term relationship with any given customer, revealing just how much a customer relationship is worth over a period of time,” according to Harvard Business School Publishing. The following can help you determine what types of customers to follow up with now and target in the future. Calculate CLTV: • Average order size: $500 • Average purchases per year: 3 • Average customer lifetime: 1.26 years • Average lifetime value ($500 x 3) x 1.26 = $1,890 Let’s look at each of these key metrics to help determine how much our customers are worth. 1. Average order size. You will need to track your customer’s orders.

a. Number of orders in quarter 4: 60 b. New orders in quarter 4: $30,000 c. Average order size: $30,000/60 = $500

2. Average purchases per year. This number is how many times a customer buys from you in one year.

a. Total orders in 2012: 240 b. Total active buyers in 2012: 80 c. Average purchases per year: 240/80 = 3 per year

3. Average Customer Lifetime. Average customer lifetime is how long a customer will buy from you from beginning to end. This is calculated by determining who your inactive customers are and how long they purchased from you.

a. Date of last order: 1/17/2012 b. Date of first order: 10/15/2010 c. Customer lifetime: 1/17/2012 – 10/15/2013 = 457 days (1.26 years)

After you’ve calculated this number for all your inactive customers, calculate an average and that is your Average Customer Lifetime. Ok, so you figured all this out, now what? Begin with who of your current customer base is coming to the end of their lifecycle. This would be a good opportunity to reach out to those customers and let them know how much you appreciated their business in the past and look forward to serving them in the future. It is also an opportunity to cross- or up-sell them products or services to extend the lifecycle. You are also able to survey those customers to see what other products or services they would be interested in. Additionally, you may want to survey your inactive customers to touch base and let them know about your products and services that have been added since they last purchased from you, possibly bringing them back into the buyer cycle. Target the people most likely to get a return on your time investment. These numbers can help you make smart decisions about marketing and customer retention. Start with the metric that would most help you in making educated decisions and then move onto the next. You will start to discover trends that can provide vital information on what to do next to have a prosperous year.

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

Orange Pulse

Slice Ad

Middletown Community Health Center

ONLY $50 per issue!

Middletown Community Health Center, Inc.’s (MCHC) Port Jervis Center for Primary Care is a superb example of quality medical and dental services being offered in a truly caring environment. Offering care that is affordable and accessible, the facility at 140 Hammond Street in Port Jervis is part of MCHC’s growing network of programs and services in Middletown, Port Jervis, Goshen, Pine Bush and Montgomery. “The model utilized at our Port Jervis site is reflective of our commitment to offer tristate area residents comprehensive healthcare services under one roof,” says Chief Executive Officer Theresa M. Butler. Port Jervis programs include: pediatrics, women’s health (OB/GYN), dental care, internal medicine (serving adults age 18 and over), WIC (supplemental nutrition to women, infants and children) and behavioral health. A patient navigator helps patients wade through the healthcare system, addressing such issues as referrals, authorization for care and transportation. There is also a very active commitment to the community through participation in Crime Watch, Community Day, Toys for Tots and other programs.

THE ORANGE COUNTY CHAMBER

845.754.2356

www.orangecountybusinesswatch.com

The center’s caring philosophy is reflected in the way individuals are treated by both medical and support staff. Professionalism and courtesy are paramount, and that personalized approach is evidenced from reception to completion of visit. To make an appointment, call 845-343-7614. M C H C ’ s caring spirit and its impact on one person ’ s life

February 18, 2013 was a hallmark date for Shelley, MCHC’s Site Manager at the Port Jervis Center for Primary Care. That is the date when Shelley, who has three children and one grandchild, was given the diagnosis of cancer. It was 8:02 a.m., she remembers. For someone who, admittedly, likes to be in control of her own agenda, the diagnosis left little room for that. Others would be setting the agenda for a while. She assumed the protocols that she would have to endure would not be easy. She would undergo 28 sessions of chemotherapy and radiation following surgery. Statistics are interesting: 1.6 million individuals in the US will be diagnosed annually and survive. But for too many, there’s precious little support. In this world, jobs define who you are. What was next for her? For Shelley, the self-questioning was completely natural. There was, of course, the support of her family. But there was more, she discovered. There was another “family” rooting for her and doing everything they could to do to boost her recovery.

“EVERY BUSINESS HAS A STORY... WE CAN HELP YOU TELL YOURS.“

“I was fighting this thing that had attacked me, taken something from me, reduced physical resources I had counted on,” says Shelley. “And yet, MCHC never let me think I wouldn’t be back.” Staff members would say repeatedly: “If you need any help, just let me know,” and “You can do this, we’re right behind you.” But there was more. Staff members managed a sea of paperwork in her office. “They covered for me instead of replacing me,” she says. They offered to walk her dogs, purchased gas cards, made dinners and more. “I shouldn’t have been surprised,” she says. “It’s what Theresa (CEO) and so many others in this organization are committed to. They didn’t have to do it. It’s who they are.” Shelley says she will never forget the day she came through the door and Theresa smiled: “I knew you’d be back,” she said. Says Shelley: “MCHC gets it!”

Print•Online•Social Media

Tom Martinelli

www.MartinelliCustomPublishing.com • 845.462.1209

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

Caught in the Act Award

Thanks to 2013 Corporate Partners

Patricia Mugnano was the very first recipient of the Chamber staff’s “Caught in the Act Award.” Patricia, who was Administrative Assistant in the Membership Department before she left the Chamber and recently moved to Florida, was selected for the award for “going above and beyond” in serving Chamber members. Patricia is pictured with Bill Fioravanti, Vice President for Membership. See an upcoming issue of BusinessWatch for the next Chamber staff member who is recognized for providing extraordinary service to Chamber members.

Our generous Partners this year are: D I A M O N D Partners :

Alteva Crystal Run Healthcare P latinum Partners :

Drake, Loeb, Heller, Kennedy, Gogerty, Gaba & Rodd, PLLC Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGiovanni & Weddell, LLP, CPAs G old Partners :

Advance Testing Company AJ Ross Creative Media All Access Dental Bonura Hospitality Group Community Products, LLC Depew Energy DocuWare Elant, Inc. Entrepreneurial Assistance Program Greater Hudson Valley Family Health Center Judelson, Giordano & Siegel, CPA, PC M&T Bank Mobile Life Support Services, Inc. Niki Jones Agency, Inc. Orange & Rockland Utilities Orange Regional Medical Center SB Merchant Services Stewart Airport/ The PANYNJ Walden Savings Bank M edia Partners :

Clear Channel Media & Entertainment Cumulus Radio of the Hudson Valley Fox Radio Group Rock City Media Thunder 102 Watermark Communications

No Better Time To Join The Chamber Than In September! Continued from Page 1

In a national survey conducted by The Schapiro Group, it was discovered that when consumers know that a small business is a member of the Chamber of Commerce, they are 64% more likely to buy products and/or services from that business. As the Orange County Chamber gears up for its annual drive for membership – the entire month of September -- the benefits for joining have never been better:

• Thousands of dollars in free online, radio and print advertising • 10% discount on membership investment if you join at EXPO 2013 (September 12) • Benefits that made business consultant Eric Egeland say that

joining was “…the best return on investment I have ever seen!”

What else? • We save you money. o Rewards program, discounts on shipping, so much more • We build your business and your brand. o Opening doors and making connections • We educate you and your staff. o Free business counseling • We fight for the business point of view. o Two NYS lobbyists on staff

...the best return on investment I have ever seen!

If you’re not a member of the Orange County Chamber of Commerce, come to Anthony’s Pier 9 in New Windsor on September 12 and get a great discount on your dues investment. If you don’t want to wait that long, contact Cheryl at 845-457-9700 or cherylc@orangeny.com and get us working for you right now!

More than 7-in-10 Do Your Workers More understand health U.S.Uworkers agree that health care reform?

care reform is too complicated understand.*

Joseph E Profaci Sr Financial Advisor to

297 South Plank Road Newburgh, NY 12550 845-566-7379

How will you help them?

Call your local office at 845-351-0080 or E Mail margaret_flood@us.aflac.com

www.edwardjones.com

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

DON’T FORGET... ...About the great new FREE benefit for all Chamber members As you know, your business directory listing on the Chamber website includes a link to YOUR website (assuming you have given us your website address). Now, you can also have a direct link to all your social media sites. Simply log into the Members Only section at www. orangeny.com to add your Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, You Tube and any other social media sites you have. Call the Chamber at 845-457-9700 if you would like your login information.

New NYS Program Creating ‘Magnets For Investment’

Braving The Heat

Being called a “game changer for the Empire State,” START-UP NY (SUNY Tax-free Areas to Revitalize and Transform Upstate NY) will transform SUNY campuses and university communities across the state into tax-free communities – meaning no income tax for employees, and no sales, property or business tax 10 years.

Members of the Orange County Chamber Young Professionals recently braved the heat to help Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh clear land to prepare for the building of a new house. In the foreground are Erin Waz, from the Greater Hudson Valley Family Health Center (right) and Johnnieanne Hansen, from Walden Savings Bank. Scott Wohl, from the Builders Association of the Hudson Valley, is in the rear.

START-UP NY will offer new businesses the opportunity to operate completely taxfree while also partnering with the worldclass higher education institutions in the SUNY system. It is hoped that the initiative will attract venture capital, start-ups, new businesses and investments from across the nation and the world to New York. With a strong focus on job creation, every business will be required to create and maintain net new jobs. Businesses participating in the program will need to be aligned with or further the academic mission of the campus, college or university sponsoring the tax-free community, as well as have positive community and economic benefits. Businesses must be start-ups, a company from out of state that is relocating to New York State, or an expansion of an existing NYS company. All SUNY colleges and universities will have the opportunity to develop tax-free communities. CUNY and private colleges will also have an opportunity to participate. For more information, visit www.governor. ny.gov/2013-startupny/startupny.

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

After Hours Event! Below: Rhinebeck Bankâ€™s Frank Koechlein (left) and Dean Roberts enjoyed a mixer and baseball game at Dutchess Stadium when the Orange County Chamber and Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce co-hosted an after hours event in conjunction with the Hudson Valley Renegades. Rhinebeck Bank was one of the event sponsors. Above: Representing The Chazen Companies, another sponsor of the joint event with the Dutchess Chamber, were Joe Pedevillano and Danielle Marxer.

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

Spend The Day At EXPO 2013 Continued from Page 1

The visitor-friendly EXPO layout once again will make it much easier to navigate the venue, enhancing access for both exhibitors and visitors. New this year is a totally wired Business Hub, compliments of The Workplace Club, where visitors not only can meet with clients and customers, but will be able to do business comfortably all day, taking advantage of a wireless system installed specifically for EXPO, by Time Warner Business Class.

EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS WITH BUSINESS FRIENDLY LOANS CALL A HOMETOWN BANKER TODAY!

An exciting new addition to EXPO 2013 will be an Orange County Flavor Food and Beverage Trail, featuring member restaurants, caterers, wineries, breweries, and more. Visitors will be able to sample the incredible food and beverages offered by these businesses, brought to us by Catlin Gardens and Orange County Tourism. A series of business seminars will once again be offered all day in the Presidential Room, and the sensational line-up of speakers will be announced soon. EXPO will conclude with a mixer for exhibitors and Chamber members from 5:30-7:00 p.m. Major EXPO Sponsors are: CDPHP, Central Hudson, DocuWare, EAP/SCORE, Marshall & Sterling, Media Solstice, Mount Saint Mary College, Orange County Trust Company and Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell. Media sponsors are Clear Channel Media and Entertainment, Cumulus Broadcasting, Fox Radio/WGNY, Thunder 102, MidHudsonNews. Com, Rock City Media, Times Community Newspapers, Times Herald-Record, and Watermark Communications.

Starting Or Growing A Business?

If youâ€™re thinking about starting a business, or want to grow your current business, you should seriously consider signing up for the next series of Entrepreneurial Assistance Program (EAP) classes. The 10-week accelerated business course will begin Monday, September 16 and classes will meet every Monday and Wednesday from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Chamber Business Center in Montgomery. Youâ€™ll learn: seven steps for starting your own business; advanced advertising and marketing strategies; using the internet to attract customers; how to create a winning business plan; how to find funding for your business; how to organize your business for success; and much more. Tuition is $399 for participants who enroll by September 13. After that date, it is $597. Visit www. OrangeNYEAP.com or call Cynthia Marsh-Croll at 845-457-9700 for more information. EAP is partially funded by a grant from Empire State Developmen and the Orange County Chamber of Commerce.

www.HometownBankHV.com

800-249-3832 Member FDIC

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

CRUSH COLLECTIONS, New Cit y

Making it in OC AME RICAN AL ARM CO., Newburgh Formed in 1972 from a family venture that blossomed into today’s successful business. Maintains its own on-site Central Office Monitoring and Receiving Station. Your home should be a safe, secure sanctuary; American Alarm makes that possible. 845-564-3763 / amp617@hotmail.com www.american-alarm.com.

T H E T H AY E R H O T E L , W e s t P o i n t Now through September 1, “The Patriotic Package” is available: overnight stay including two guided tours of some of the most historic places in the Hudson Valley, as well as a complimentary breakfast, valet parking and more. Fall Foliage tours also available. 845-446-4731, ext. 1 tspanos@thethayerhotel.com www.thethayerhotel.com

511N Y R I D E S H A R E , K i n g s t o n Sponsored by the New York State Department of Transportation, can help employers develop a commuter benefits program or provide employees with information about commuting options. 845-340-8535 / therendeen@511NYRideshare.org www.511nyrideshare.org

MET LIFE , Middletown The Middletown, Elmsford and Brewster offices of MetLife Financial Solutions have been merged into Barnum Financial Group, headquartered in Shelton, CT. Barnum now has more than 288 financial services reps helping clients preserve and grow wealth. 845-695-1004 / afenical@metlife.com www.metlife.com

A S PA R K L I N G V I E W, Wa r w i c k Window cleaning, glass scratch removal, roof cleaning, gutter cleaning and pressure washing. They can clean commercial and residential windows, restore hard water stained windows and shower doors. Specializing in mid-rise commercial

buildings, store front glass and all size homes. 845-988-5535 / asparklingview@optonline.net www.asparklingview.com

BLUS TE IN , SHAPIRO, RICH & BARONE , Goshen Provides one-stop diversified legal services in a professional, uncompromising and experienced manner. Offers unparalleled expertise specific to litigation, wealth preservation, and business law. 845-291-0011 / bsr@mid-hudsonlaw.com www.mid-hudsonlaw.com

W E L L N E S S H O M E C A R E , LT D . , Goshen Owned and operated by nurses since 1983, Wellness is celebrating 30 years of touching people's lives. Their Home Care team has a personal understanding of the challenges associated with caring for a loved one at home. 845-294-8364 / fschafer@wellnesshomecare.com www.wellnesshomecare.com

RIVER ROSE TOURS & CRUISE S, Newburgh Narrated sightseeing cruises and brunch, dinner and dance cruises are a great to enjoy the beauty of the Hudson River, while experiencing the thrill of being on an authentic Mississippi stern drive paddle wheeler. 845-562-1067 / riverrosecruises@gmail.com www.riverrosecruises.com

CHAPEL FIELD CHRISTIAN SCHOOL , Pine Bush Founded by the Spanjer family in 1986, located on a 100-acre campus. Pre-K through high school students receive “the advantage for a lifetime” with a supportive environment, small classes, college prep, award-winning music and sports programs. 845-778-1881 / chapelfieldschool@yahoo.com www.chapelfieldchristianschool.com

Professional debt collection agency specializing in business and consumer delinquent accounts. Fifteen years experience.Experienced, highly trained professionals. Accounts are handled with dignity and dispatch at a reasonable cost. 845-634-4240 / epankin@crushcollections.com www.crushcollections.com

K I T TAT I N N Y R I V E R T R I P S & Z I P L I N E , M i l f o r d , PA Adventures for everyone! Canoe, kayak, raft or tube from seven riverfront locations. Dual Racing Zipline starts from the top of a mountain and zips through the treetops for a bird’s eye view of the Delaware River. Speeds of up to 40-60 mph are reached. 800-356-2852 / info@kittatinny.com www.kittatinny.com

J O H N J . L E A S E R E A LT O R S , Newburgh John J. Lease Realtors Commercial Division has sold the 20,000 square foot West Wings Plaza in the Town of Newburgh just off the intersection of Route 17K and I-84 at Stewart Airport. The new owner is Autumn Sky Development Corp. 845-565-2800 x148 john3@johnjleaserealtors.com www.johnjleaserealtors.com

C AT H O L I C C H A R I T I E S C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S O F O R A N G E C O U N T Y, Goshen Assisting people in need since 2006. In 2012 alone, thousands of individuals were helped through the Chemical Dependency Clinics, Housing Resource Center, Adopt-a-Family Programs, Early Learning Center, Employee Assistance Program and Immigration staff. 845-294-5124 / dean.scher@archny.org www.catholiccharitiesoc.org

A R N O F F M OV I N G & S T O R AG E I N C . , Poughkeepsie Has launched a new mobile-friendly website, with a home page that displays an updated userfriendly menu with more moving and storage options; easy to navigate on a laptop, smart phone or tablet. Includes extensive information on the new Global Logistics division. 800-633-6683 / dfeldman@arnoff.com www.arnoff.com

P R O G R E S S I V E E L E M E N T, G o s h e n First and foremost about business and results. Assists businesses, not-for-profits and/or government entities gain revenues while cutting expenses. Provides cutting-edge, cost-effective, online solutions, professionally serving clients with ever-shifting needs. 917-301-9347 / chris.masters@digimobmedia.com

S . E . M . S E C U R I T Y S YS T E M S , I N C . , War wick Installs and services new and existing alarm systems, access control and CCTV with IP solutions. Employs the latest reliable alarm reporting technology including private Mesh Radio and the internet, both UL listed for fire and security, as is their Central Station. 845-986-0336 / Stan@semsecsys.com

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

J U D E L S O N , G I O R DA N O & S I E G E L , C PA , P C , M i d d l e t o w n Recently expanded their social media presence to include Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn, with information about the latest in business news and client alerts, as well as informative videos and news from the firm. JGS also recently joined the Upstate Venture Association of New York State. 845-692-9500 / jgscpa@warwick.net www.jgspc.com

UPS STORE #3406, Middletown Located in the Appliance City Plaza at 680 Route 211 East. Offering direct UPS shipping rates, packaging materials and service, freight shipping, B&W and color copy/printing, laminating, binding, greeting cards, faxing, mailbox services and more since 1997. Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m.6:30 p.m.; Saturday: 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. 845-703-1749 / store3406@theupsstore.com

THE ART S TUDIO, Highland Mills Offers creative art classes for all ages and abilities; instruction for ages four through adult. Classes offered on general instruction, painting, drawing, crochet and portfolio preparation classes. Day and evening classes are available. Birthday parties too. 845-928-8823 / artstudio@frontiernet.net www.theartstudiowoodbury.com

C O M B I N E D E N E R GY S E R V I C E S , Goshen

Mixer At Torches From left, Jill Varricchio (Concept Promotions) and Lisa Santacruz (Hudson Valley Contracting Group) enjoyed our recent mixer at Torches on the Hudson in spite of temperatures in the 90s. The mixer was sponsored by UnitedHealthCare Community Plan.

Family owned and operated gas and fuel oil company serving the Catskills and lower Hudson Valley since 1968. Great service at competitive prices. Branches in Goshen, Monticello, Kerhonkson and Dingman’s Ferry, PA. Eight storage terminals throughout the region. 845-294-7771 / mtaylor@combinedenergyservices. com / www.combinedenergyservices.com

P E T R O M C C R U M C O N S U LT I N G , L L C , Plattekill Founded by President Kim Petro McCrum, Patient Advocate Services, Inc. helps patients deal with the health care system and overwhelming bills. Info available at www.patient-advocate-services. org and affiliated blog. 845-566-0391 / petromccrum@gmail.com www.petromccrum.com

B E L O W I C H & WA L S H , W h i t e P l a i n s Boutique litigation firm, representing individuals, small businesses and large corporations. Attorneys are highly experienced in litigating complex business, construction and real estate disputes in federal and state courts. 914-367-0081 / dwalsh@belowichwalsh.com www.belowichwalsh.com

H U D S O N VA L L E Y P U B L I C R E L AT I O N S , M i l l b r o o k Specializing in reputation management, content marketing, media planning and buying. Member of New Paltz Chamber of Commerce and International Association of Business Communicators. 845-702-6226 Andrew.ciccone@hudsonvalleymedia.com http://hudsonvalleypublicrelations.com and http://hudsonvalleymedia.com.

Frederick H. Mills Assistant Vice President 845.421.1077

Robert E. Ambrose Vice President 845.220.8387

Greg Roe Assistant Vice President 845.522.0561

TERM LOANS ❖ LINES OF CREDIT ❖ REAL ESTATE LOANS ❖ BUILDER/L AND DEVELOPMENT LOANS ❖ SBA LOANS

Superheroes for your business with lightning-fast loan decisions

Circleville • Cornwall • Florida • Gardiner • Middlehope • Montgomery • New Windsor • Pine Bush • Scott’s Corners • Walden • Washingtonville

845.457.7700 www.superheroesforyourbusiness.com

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

GROW/ EXPAND

Awards

NOTABLE PEOPLE Danielle Baran 845-291-0011 www.mid-hudsonlaw.com Danielle Baran has joined the Goshen law firm of Blustein, Shapiro, Rich & Barone. She will focus her practice on general litigation. Cletis Earle & Shiv Rastogi 845-561-4400 www.stlukescornwallhospital.org Cletis Earle, Vice President/Chief Information Officer at St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital, recently participated in a radio talk show discussing the hospital’s latest mobile health and technology. SLCH prides itself on being technologically cutting-edge in all areas, from creating an internal website solely for employee use, implementing digital signage to relay news throughout both hospital campuses, along with medical excellence such as the da vinci Robotic Surgery for certain cancers and the hospital’s Center for Cardiac Care. SLCH recently honored Dr. Shiv Rastogi for his dedication and service to the Newburgh community for more than 35 years. Carolyn Grese 845-313-2853 www.sparksalive.com Carolyn Grese has joined SPARKS! as Maria Blon’s Administrative Assistant. SPARKS! provides inspiration classes, Reiki energy healing, life coaching and more. Alissa Provanzana & Joseph Tompkins 845-457-7700 www.waldensavingsbank.com Walden Savings Bank announces the recent appointment of Alissa Provanzana as Client Services Associate for the bank’s Investment Services program. Provanzana will be responsible for maintaining customer accounts, monitoring trade settlement and sales management, as well as providing both internal and external customer service. Also, Marlboro High School senior Joseph Tompkins is the 2013 recipient of the Walden Savings Bank David T. Cocks Memorial Scholarship, administered by The Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan. Sebastian Lemos 845-561-0550 www.drakeloeb.com The New Windsor law firm of Drake, Loeb, Heller, Kennedy, Gogerty, Gaba & Rodd PLLC welcomes associate attorney Sebastian Lemos to its firm. Lemos will focus on estate planning, estate administration and probate, and business transactions with an emphasis on non-profit representation. Jean Pozza 845-333-1000 www.ormc.org Orange Regional Medical Center announces that Jean Pozza, BSN, RN, CMSRN is new Magnet Program Director. Pozza joined ORMC in 2009 as a Specialized Educator in the Professional Practice Department. George M. Levy 800-529-2676 www.lawampm.com George M. Levy, a senior Trial Partner with

recognition

St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital recently received the American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association Get with the Guidelines® Stroke-Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award. SLCH was awarded this recognition for its outstanding efforts in stroke care and recognizes commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care by ensuring that stroke patients receive treatment according to nationally accepted guidelines. Also, SLCH has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for accreditation by demonstrating compliance with The Joint Commission’s national standards for health care quality and safety in hospitals. In addition, SLCH Nurse Amy Heimink has been nominated for Hudson Valley Magazine’s Annual Excellence in Nursing Award for the 2013 year. SUNY Orange Professors John Wolbeck and Joe Zurovchak are recipients of the State University of New York’s Chancellor’s Award for Teaching Excellence. Professor Elaine Torda has been presented with the Chancellor’s Award for Professional Excellence. Also, SUNY Orange has learned it will receive $216,820 from New York State to develop a pathway program for its nursing graduates to obtain their Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN). Brotherhood, America’s Oldest Winery, has been awarded a 2013 Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor for outstanding work in wine tourism. The award places Brotherhood among the top-performing 10 percent of all businesses worldwide on TripAdvisor. Honored for creative excellence in the Summit International Awards, BBG&G Advertising and Public Relations received recognition in this year’s competition for its creative and effective website, developed to boost tourism in Dutchess County. BBG&G was awarded Bronze in the category of Travel/Tourism/Nature website. The Irma Schwinger DeAngele Fund, a component charitable fund of the Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan, has awarded a grant of $1,000 to the Officer John Falcone Memorial Fund in honor and memory of the slain City of Poughkeepsie police officer killed in the line of duty in Poughkeepsie in 2011. Deborah Weisman-Estis, a Partner at the law firm of Rider, Weiner & Frankel, P.C., was recently awarded the Rose Rosen Award from the Women’s Bar Association of Orange & Sullivan Counties. Over 250 people attended Orange County Land Trust’s 20-Year Anniversary Benefit Reception, helping the non-profit land conservation organization raise over $100,000. Since 1993, the Orange County Land Trust has helped preserve nearly 5,000 acres of land in communities throughout Orange County and one in Sullivan County. DesignWorks NY, LLC has been designated an authorized supplier for Super Bowl XLVIII, which will be hosted at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ on February 2, 2014. In addition, DesignWorks recently won three prestigious 2013 Communicator Awards for: a pro bono advertisement for My Sisters’ Place; a logo for Capacity Business Consulting; and a wall mural for American Express Travel call centers. Orange Regional Medical Center’s Marketing & Public Relations Department was recently recognized with 10 national marketing awards for excellence in advertising. In addition, for the third consecutive year, a member of ORMC’s nursing staff took home top honors at the 10th Annual Nurse of Distinction Awards Gala. ORMC Nurse Director of Oncology Services Eva Edwards was named 2013 Nurse Leader by 1199SEIU RN Division and the League of Voluntary Hospitals and Homes. Also, ORMC received the Healthgrades 2013 Patient Safety Excellence Award, ranking Orange Regional in the top five percent in the nation for its excellent performance in safeguarding patients from serious, potentially preventable complications during their hospital stays. ORMC also recently earned STAR Program® Certification (Survivorship Training and Rehabilitation) from the Oncology Rehab Partners. Masterwork Home is a recipient of the 2013 Builder’s Association of the Hudson Valley’s prestigious Pinnacle Awards for both Residential Addition/Alteration of the Year over $750,000 and Best Bath Renovation Craftsmanship. Masterwork Home is a full service design/construction firm with over 37 years of proven success for innovative designs, meticulous project management and superior craftsmanship. Leading business management magazine, American Banker, recently listed Orange County Bancorp, Inc., the bank holding corporation of Orange County Trust Company, among the top 200 community banks with less than $2 billion of assets as of December 31, 2012.

CONTINUED

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

GROW/ EXPAND

WBNR-AM (a Pamal Broadcasting radio station) recently received an award for Excellence in Broadcasting, as part of an annual contest sponsored by the New York State Broadcasters Association recognizing outstanding achievement among New York’s radio and television stations. The Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame in Goshen recently received the 2012 Ross Merrill Award for Outstanding Commitment to the Preservation and Care of Collections, presented annually by Heritage Preservation and the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works. The American Cancer Society’s Hudson Valley Region will honor Dr. Hal Teitelbaum of Crystal Run Healthcare, the Rand Family of Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty and Susan Swensen, long-time ACS volunteer, at the organization’s Birthday Bash on September 27 at Anthony’s Pier 9 in New Windsor. The event will commemorate ACS’s 100th birthday. Hometown Bank of the Hudson Valley was the recipient of the Orange County Youth Bureau’s Asset Builder-Outstanding Business Partner award. The award was presented to bank President Marjorie Rovereto at the 31st annual County Executive’s Youth Awards luncheon hosted recently in Middletown. Hometown Bank was nominated for the award by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County in recognition of the bank’s ongoing support of the organization’s youth mentoring programs. Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union has been recognized as a Platinum-Level Fit-Friendly Worksite by the American Heart Association for helping employees eat better and move more. Since 2009, HVFCU’s Wellness Committee has worked to bring health and wellness to the forefront for employees, both at work and in their personal lives. Ulster Savings Bank’s Ulster Insurance Services, Inc. has been named to Kemper Preferred’s Inner Circle of Independent Agents. The Inner Circle is an exclusive group of 262 independent insurance agencies countrywide that represent Kemper Preferred. Mount Saint Mary College’s recent 35th Annual Invitational Golf and 2nd Annual Invitational Tennis Tournaments grossed more than $120,000 for the college. Tournament organizers also collected gently used golf bags, clubs and golf balls for the First Tee Program, whose mission is to improve the lives of young people and promote healthy choices through the game of golf. Judelson, Giordano & Siegel, CPA, PC, a full service accounting and business consulting firm for more than 80 years, recently participated in and raised $2,000 for The American Heart Association Heart Walk, which took place in Harriman State Park.

NOTABLE PEOPLE CONTINUED

Finkelstein & Partners LLC, one of New York State’s largest personal injury law firms, recently celebrated his 30th anniversary with the firm. Levy became a partner at Finkelstein & Partners in 1987. Mary Dana Hinton 845-561-0800 www.msmc.edu Mary Dana Hinton, Ph.D., has been named Vice President for Academic Affairs at Mount Saint Mary College. Hinton, who served the Mount since 2011 as Vice President for Strategic Planning, replaces Dr. Iris Turkenkopf who retired after 39 years at the college. Joe Detz 845-341-4728 www.sunyorange.edu Joe Detz, a longtime coach at the high school and collegiate ranks in the Hudson Valley, was recently named head men’s basketball coach at SUNY Orange, replacing Tom Rickard who retired in the spring. Detz served for nine seasons on the staff at Dutchess Community College. Tiffany Frieary, Jennifer Boniface & Allan Paradie 845-567-9000 www.vddw.com CPA Tiffany Frieary has been promoted to Supervisor at Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell. Jennifer Boniface has been promoted to Senior Accountant. CPA Allan Paradie will serve as a Board member of Family Promise of the MidHudson Valley. VDDW provides accounting, auditing, tax and business consulting services in the greater Hudson Valley, as well as in other areas of New York State, New Jersey and several other states. Christopher Corallo 845-769-9393 www.cfoc-ny.org The Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan has appointed Christopher Corallo to its Board of Directors. Corallo has served as a volunteer on the Finance and Investment Committee of the Community Foundation since 2011. Orange Regional Medical Center 845-333-1000 www.ormc.org New officers of the Orange Regional Medical Center Foundation Board of Trustees are: Jonathan Rouis, Chairman; Terry Saturno, ViceChair; William Quackenbush, Treasurer; Richard Liberth, Secretary; John Anthony and Margaret Smith, members-at-large; and Paul Halpern, Immediate Past Chairman. Eileen Mishk, Tami Siedler & Patricia Tereilli 845-561-3655 www.willcare.com Home healthcare provider Willcare announces that Eileen Mishk has been promoted to Administrator of the private duty home health agency’s Hudson Valley branch, which includes offices in Middletown, Kingston, and Pleasant Valley, as well as recruitment centers in Monticello and New Paltz. Patricia Terilli is the new Director of Patient Services and Tami Siedler is the Administrator for the Certified Home Health Agency.

CONTINUED

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

WELCOME

GROW/ EXPAND

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS

NOTABLE PEOPLE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

A dvance A uto Parts (845) 427-0870 - Montgomery, NY

Sylvia McTigue, Rachel Skinner & David Melchionne 845-360-1200 www.elant.org Elant, the Hudson Valley’s leading provider of senior health care and housing solutions, announces the appointment of Sylvia McTigue as Chief Administrative Officer, Community Health Programs. Also, Elant, has awarded two of its student interns $250 scholarships to reflect the hard work and dedication they displayed while performing fieldwork at the organization’s facilities. The recipients are Rachel Skinner and David Melchionne, both graduates of SUNY Orange.

A ll K inds of S igns , I nc . (845) 567-9600 - New Windsor, NY

Lisa Santacruz 845-294-8919 www.hudsonvalleydki.com Hudson Valley DKI, a member of DKI, North America’s largest disaster restoration contracting organization, recently announced that Lisa Santacruz has joined the company as Business Development Account Executive. Hudson Valley Contracting Group, Inc., Hudson Valley DKI and Hudson Valley Kitchen Design have been in business for 40 years. Lisa Silverstone 845-562-6940 www.safe-harbors.org Lisa Silverstone has been promoted to Executive Director of Safe Harbors of the Hudson. She was Associate Director for two years. Gary I. Greenwald 845-469-4900 www.greeenwaldlaw.com Gary I. Greenwald, founder of Greenwald Law Offices which has been operating for more than 40 years located in Orange, Dutchess, Sullivan and New York counties, has been named to the Hudson Valley Super Lawyers list in the fields of General Litigation for two years in a row and in the field specifically of Criminal Law for 2013.

B elowich & Walsh , L . L . P. (914) 367-0081 - White Plains, NY www.belowichwalsh.com B est W estern I nn at H unt ' s L anding (570) 491-2400 - Matamoras, PA www.bestwesternhuntslanding.com C ombined E nergy S ervices (845) 294-7771 - Goshen, NY www.combinedenergyservices.com C rush C ollections (845) 649-2130 - Middletown, NY www.crushcollections.com

N eversink M edia G roup, W D L C W Y N Y WA B T (845) 856-6000 - Port Jervis, NY www.neversinkmediagroup.com P urple H eart H all of H onor (845) 978-3434 - Newburgh, NY R hythm and R hyme C hildcare (845) 987-7771 - Warwick, NY http://rrchildcare.com S teve K urlander , C ommunications S trategist (845) 796-8948 - Monticello, NY www.stevenkurlander.com S unset K ey C hains & F un A ccessories (845) 926-3457 - Newburgh, NY www.sunsetkeychains.com

D alan A djustment C orp. (845) 568-5500 - Newburgh, NY www.dalanadjustment.com

Tara M ullin , N orth W estern M utual R epresentative (845) 313-7128 - Middletown, NY

D ouglas R abess , N ew York L ife R ecruiter (845) 313-3262 - Middletown, NY

T he G reek C afe (845) 673-6040 - Middletown, NY www.greekcafeny.com

EL SOLAR CAFE (845) 561-3498 - Newburgh, NY

T he Valley Table (845) 561-2022 - Newburgh, NY www.valleytable.com

E pona 3 6 0 , L . L . C . (845) 773-0003 - Beacon, NY http://financingforyourbusiness.com K ranz A gency (845) 856-2368 - Port Jervis, NY K ranz K reations (845) 856-2368 - Port Jervis, NY www.kranzkreations.com M usical M unchkins of O range (845) 895-1387 - Wallkill, NY www.musicalmunchkins.net

T ish E nterprises (914) 204-0959 - Newburgh, NY www.natachajoseph.com T ommy H ilfiger (845) 928-8888 - Central Valley, NY www.tommy.com U pstate C oncrete & M asonry C ontracting C o . , I nc . (845) 782-0818 - Monroe, NY U S A lliance F ederal C redit U nion (800) 431-2754 - Napanoch, NY www.usalliance.org

Eric Egeland 845-764-9484 www.CapacityBusinessConsulting.com Eric Egeland, founder and CEO of Capacity Business Consulting, was recently featured on the popular Marist Radio station WMAR “on line.” Egeland is also author of the recently published book, “Employees, Kids, and Pets – How to Get Out of Your Own Way and Be a Better Boss, Manager, or Parent.”The book is available in paperback, on Kindle and Nook, at www.Amazon.com, www.Barnesandnoble.com or at local bookstores.

CONTINUED

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

NOTABLE PEOPLE CONTINUED

Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame 845-294-6330 www.harnessmuseum.com Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame announces four new members of the Board of Trustees: Elizabeth D. Caldwell, Dr. Patricia M. Hogan, Steve Jones and David P. Reid. Elected as vice presidents were Max J. Hempt and Lawrence S. DeVan, who will also serve as treasurer. Peter G. Gerry was elected trustee emeritus. Jaymee Scaduto 845-566-4200 www.tripleAsupplies.com Jaymee Scaduto, Design Coordinator for Design Contract Services, a Division of Triple A Supplies, was recently named winner of H.G. Page & Sons’ “DIY DIVA” contest that looked for a woman in the Hudson Valley who is a do-it-yourselfer. Scaduto is excited about being able to help other women tackle projects and improvements.

Happy Anniversary! A1 No Nonsense Pest Control, Inc. recently celebrated its first year in business. William and Daniel Piersa joined their parents, Steve and Kerry, owners of A1, when they stopped by the Chamber office in Montgomery to celebrate this great milestone. For more info, visit www.a1nononsensepestcontrol.com or call 845-476-8523.

AnnMarie Scotti 845-342-2400 www.mhaorangeny.com AnnMarie Scotti has joined the Board of Directors of the Mental Health Association in Orange County, Inc.

Switching Banks… it’s easier than you may think. M ark your calendar now !

EXPO 2013

Anthony’s Pier 9, New Windsor Thursday, September 12 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Sponsors and exhibitors are invited for the biggest & best business trade show in the Hudson Valley. Nearly 200 exhibitors, seminars, new food and beverage area, and much more! Sponsors receive two booths in a prime location. If you can’t be a sponsor, plan to be a vendor.

For information, contact Roseann Bouzakis (845) 457-9700 or roseannb@orangenycom.

“Orange County Trust really came through for me.” Every business wants a bank that is there with the support it needs. Whether it’s a business loan, a line of credit, or just the right checking account - you want a bank that understands the big picture and knows how to help.

Scan or Text to receive our quarterly newsletter. Use your mobile device to scan the QR code, or text OCTC to 22828 to get started. *Message and data rates may apply.

That’s Orange County Trust Company. And if we’re not already your bank, you’ll be surprised how easy it is to switch, and to connect with us whenever you need us. We’ve been earning people’s trust since 1892. Let us earn yours. Call or stop by today and find out how easy it is to switch to Orange County Trust. Member FDIC

Middletown • Montgomery • Vails Gate • Chester • Goshen • Newburgh • Fishkill

845-341-5000 orangecountytrust.com

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

TREND/ INNOVATE

Is Now The Time

For Solar?

or may not be well suited for solar effectiveness. The arguments for solar now include: • NYS rebates, tax and depreciation benefits have never been better. • Solar power is clean, renewable and maintenance-free.

three years, giving the homeowner and business person a tremendous purchasing advantage. Leasing and financing options very often allow the installation of solar panels with zero out-ofpocket expense.

• Most systems have a life span of more than 25 years.

Jack Paluszek is Director of Business Development for Atlantean Solar, L.L.C. He can be reached at (845) 782-7772 or jack@atlanteansolar.com. More information is available at www.atlanteansolar.com.

“As sure as the sun will rise tomorrow” is an expression which denotes certainty. The same might be said of the concept that solar power may very well become the most important energy source of the future. With utility and oil prices spiking, homeowners and business people are looking more seriously for alternative energy sources in order to save money both right now and down the road. Photovoltaics or PV systems convert sunlight directly into electricity that can serve a portion of your electrical needs. PV systems are connected to your electrical service panel and are used to supplement your existing utility service. When the PV system is generating more electricity than you use, you will receive a credit for the excess power from your utility. This process is known as net metering. With proper location, a PV system works anytime the sun is shining. It works best when facing south and should not be shaded by trees, buildings or other obstructions. There are arguments for and against the use of solar power as an alternative energy source. The list of negatives includes: • The upfront cost of solar panel installation tends to be expensive when purchased.

• The technological advancements have helped to reduce payback periods to less than five years with return on investment approaching and exceeding 20%.

Everyone knows that Benjamin Franklin certainly knew something about electricity. Very few people however are familiar with Old Ben’s formula for decision-making.

David Denny, a solar energy consultant at Joule Energy, says that there’s even bipartisan support for solar in our often politically divided environment. Hardcore Republicans want tax credits and energy freedom, while Democrats want to “go green” and reduce their carbon footprint. Denny goes on to say that the price of solar panels has easily dropped 50% in the last

First, he suggested that the pros and cons be listed on each side of a sheet of paper as they come to mind over a period of time – not at a single sitting. Second, he weighted them. Third, having assigned weights, he ascertained the balance and decided accordingly. That’s still very good advice in deciding whether now is the time to go solar.

For your Employees...

• Partner Checking • Perks Package • Credit Union Days • Special Offers

For your Business...

Contact Doug winrow or Liz rosner Business Development, at 336.4444, Ext. 3312.

• Commercial Mortgages • Business Checking Contact John Dwyer • Lines of Credit VP Business Services, • Visa Cards • Insurance at 336.4444, Ext. 3175.

Locally-based • Local Decisions • Local Commitment check out our newburgh

& middletown offices! 7 24/

Personal Teller Servic e•O

nlin eB

MHV knows how to

help your bu siness

g r ow !

ank ing &

re !!

By Jack Paluszek

Bill

Pay er •

Pers o

• An nal & Attentive Service

h uc dM

o M

• Solar power cannot be harnessed during rainy periods or at night. • The technology still has a long way to go. • Building orientation and/or property size

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

Federally Insured by NCUA

IN/ ORANGE

Shop Locally. Earn Rewards. Coming soon! Orange Advantage! The Chamber’s brand new rewards program. O/A merchants :

• Offer a reward – increase your sales. • Gain access to tens of thousands of potential new customers. O/A consumers :

• Register with O/A. • Start shopping. • Earn Rewards. • Redeem rewards

Golf Graduate! Jenet Ferris, from Greater Hudson Bank, not only graduated from Gil Anderson’s golf school at the Chamber’s annual Women in Business outing at Winding Hills Golf Club, she also won a gift certificate from Gil for a free lesson. In addition to the school, a full field of golfers participated in another great women’s outing, which was the final event in the Chamber’s celebration of Women in Business Month, sponsored by M&T Bank. The Galleria at Crystal Run was Major Sponsor for the golf outing.

Be on hand for the official launch of Orange Advantage at EXPO ’13 September 12 at Anthony’s Pier 9. For information: www.orangeadvantageny.com 888-465-6908.

Annual Meeting & Awards Reception The Annual Meeting & Awards Reception will be held October 24, 2013 at Anthony’s Pier 9, New Windsor. Recipients of our annual business awards were being selected as we went to press. As always, a special commemorative journal will honor the award recipients, and Karen Hartley Sawyer will be happy to reserve your ad in the journal. Watch your email for announcement of the award winners. Contact Karen at 845-4579700 or karens@orangeny.com to place your congratulatory ad. Visit www.orangeny.com or call Roseann to make a reservation for the reception, which is sponsored this year by First Niagara Financial Group.

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

UPCOMING EVENTS OCTOBER EVENTS

SEPTEMBER EVENTS

E lant ’ s 12 th A nnual P olo P icnic 1:00-4:30 p.m., Blue Sky Polo Club, Middletown 845-360-1410, mmccoy@elant.org

M embership B reakfast: “ U pdate from E mpire S tate D evelopment ” with K en A dams , P resident & C E O , E S D 7:27-9:00 a.m., West Hills Country Club, Middletown Sponsor: CDPHP

E X P O 2 0 13 & E X P O M ixer 10:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m., Anthony’s Pier 9, New Windsor

20& 21

S OA R 2 0 13 C elebration of W omen All day, Minerals Resort & Spa, Vernon, NJ 845-494-6257 or http://literacyorangeny.org/events/soar-2013/

E A P G overnment P rocurement W orkshop 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., Chamber Business Center, Montgomery

YMCA OF DUTCHE SS COUNT Y FA M I LY F U N & F I T N E S S F E S T I VA L 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Dutchess Stadium Fishkill

M E M B E R S O N M O N DAY LUNCH 12:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m., Chamber Business Center, Montgomery Sponsor: First Niagara Financial Group

3 8

U P DAT E O N TA P PA N ZEE BRIDGE PROJECT M E M B E R S H I P B R E A K FA S T 7:27-9:00 a.m., West Hills Country Club Middletown Sponsor: Walden Savings Bank O range C ounty R ising S tars R eception 5:30-8:00 p.m., Anthony’s Pier 9, New Windsor

Safe Homes of Orange County Annual Celebration of Hope Dinner 6:00 p.m., The Fountains at Town of Wallkill Golf Club, Middletown www.safehomesorangecounty.org or 845-562-5365, ext. 101

M inority and W omen B usiness/G overnment L E G I S L AT I V E S eminar 8:30-9:30 a.m., Chamber Business Center, Montgomery

“ I mprove Your C ash F low U sing Q uick B ooks ” W orkshop 8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Chamber Business Center, Montgomery

Young P rofessionals “ S ocial M edia” S eminar 8:00-9:30 a.m., Chamber Business Center, Montgomery

A nnual M eeting & Awards R eception 5:30-8:00 p.m., Anthony’s Pier 9, New Windsor Sponsor: First Niagara Financial Group

Members on Monday Lunch 12:00-1:30 p.m., Chamber Business Center, Montgomery Sponsor: Mass Mutual

S mall B usiness R esource C ommittee S peed N etworking 5:00-7:00 p.m., Chamber Business Center, Montgomery

N ew M ember O rientation (all members invited) 3:30-5:00 p.m., Soho, Middletown Sponsor: M&T Bank M ixer 5:30-7:30 p.m., Soho, Middletown

30& 31

Indoor Air Quality Testing • Air Duct Cleaning Fire and Water Restoration • Bucket Truck Service Mold Remediation • Carpet Cleaning • Construction Services Call for FREE estimates 845-343-6443 280 Dolson Ave., Middletown, NY 10940

T H E O R A N G E C O U N T Y C H A M B E R B U S I N E S S W AT C H | A U G U S T/ se p te m be r 2 0 13

electronics recycling Chamber Business Center Montgomery

UPCOMING MEETINGS

SEPTEMBER COMMITTEE MEETINGS

4 13 26 27

OCTOBER CONTINUED

G overnment I nitiatives E N E R GY F O R U M 8:00 am - Larkin Room Young P rofessionals 8:00 am P R / M arketing C ommittee 8:00 am - Montgomery Room A mbassadors 7:45 am

OCTOBER COMMITTEE MEETINGS

S mall B usiness R esource C ommittee 8:00 am - Montgomery Room

G overnment I nitiatives C ommittee 8:00 am - Larkin Room

4 10

C onsultants C ommittee 7:45 am - Larkin Room

11 14 25 31

Young P rofessionals 8:00 am

M inority and W omen B usiness C ommittee 8:30 am - Montgomery Room

H oliday office closed A mbassadors 7:45 am P R / M arketing C ommittee 8:00 am

advertising, marketing &â€ˆdesign

ajross.com

Think again.