OCTOBER 2014
Campaign ’14 In Full Swing Breakfast to Feature Assembly Hopefuls The Chamber’s next breakfast meeting will feature several candidates for the state Assembly— and the event comes exactly two weeks before Election Day. The candidates for the 101st, 102nd, 103rd and 104th Assembly districts have been invited to the breakfast, scheduled for 7:30-9 a.m. Oct. 21 at the Garden Plaza Hotel in Kingston. Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union is the sponsor. “We would like our members and the general public to be as informed and educated as possible about the issues that affect them,” said Chamber President Ward Todd. “That’s why we believe these breakfast meetings are so important.” The candidates will each give brief opening remarks and then business leaders and others who attend the breakfast can ask them questions. One of the more watched local races ahead of the Nov. 4 election will be the 103rd contest between nine-term incumbent Democrat Kevin
Kevin Cahill
Kevin Roberts
Cahill of Kingston and Republican challenger Kevin Roberts, an Ulster County legislator from Plattekill. Cahill said he would discuss his support of campaign finance reform, including public financing. He also has supported raising the minimum wage, the DREAM Act, energy conservation efforts, early voting and same-day registration.
“I am proud of my record as one of the most progressive voices in the state Legislature and staunchest advocates for consumer and environmental rights,” he said. Cahill said he also supports the state taking over the cost of public education and making the income tax “more progressive.” “I believe that real property tax relief is the single most important aspect of tax reform the state Legislature ought to be considering right now,” he said. Roberts, a four-term legislator, said he would tell the Chamber audience that he has never voted for a tax increase during his years at the county level. A 28-year local businessman, Roberts said he also would discuss how New York is “not business friendly and lagging behind other states.” “Property taxes are driving our seniors out of Continued on page 6
October Breakfast Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2014 7:30-9:00 AM Held at:
Garden Plaza Hotel
503 Washington Ave. Kingston
Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union UCRCC - Oct. 21 Breakfast Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union (HVFCU) has been a community partner in the Hudson Valley region for more than fifty years. With two branches in Ulster and eighteen additional locations throughout Dutchess, Orange, and Putnam Counties, the credit union is focused on serving the local community and is open late weekdays and on Saturdays to make banking convenient for you. While HVFCU is the community’s trusted financial partner for personal members, HVFCU also offers a wide variety of products and services that fit the needs
of businesses big and small. Whether you are looking for a business checking account that pays you dividends or a commercial mortgage to buy a new facility to expand your business, the credit union can help. In addition to the deposit accounts that most businesses need, HVFCU has business lending options that help your business grow, from lines of credit, SBA loans, term and vehicle loans, letters of credit, and business credit cards. Even better, there is no pre-payment pen-
Sponsor:
alty for any HVFCU business loan. HVFCU also has a full service Financial Services Department and the HVFCU Insurance Agency so you can access an array of financial products as well as multiple insurance carriers to find the best policy to meet your needs. To learn more about the credit union, stop by our Ulster County branches in Highland and Kingston and our newest office in Rhinebeck, just across the bridge, visit hvfcu.org or call 845.463.3011. HVFCU is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration and is an Equal Housing Lender.
Featured this Month: •
• • • •
Keegan Ales to Host Mixer Best Business Awards Chamber Expo a Success Mike’s Office Furniture
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID KINGSTON, NY 12401 PERMIT #39
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ChamberNews
Daily Freeman Advertising Supplement • Wednesday, October 1, 2014
The Official Publication of the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce
(845) 338-5100 Fax (845) 338-0968 www.UlsterChamber.org
[email protected] 214 Fair Street • Kingston, NY 12401 BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS CHAIR.............................................................................................. Terry M. Parisian ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������Hudson Valley Mall PRESIDENT.......................................................................................... Ward D. Todd ��������������������������������������������������������� Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce Chair Elect........................................................................................ Larry Begnal ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������LT Begnal Motor Co. VICE CHAIR..........................................................................................Donald Verity ����������������������������������������������������������������������������Pamal Broadcasting WBPM/WGHQ SECRETARY.............................................................................. MaryRose Warcholak �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� Ulster Savings Bank TREASURER ..........................................................................................Scott Jordan ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������Rondout Savings Bank IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR......................................................... Francis P. Flynn, CPA ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������Francis P. Flynn, CPA, PC Timothy Allred................................................................... The Williams Lake Project Jacquelyn Appeldorn..........................................................Mohonk Mountain House Joseph Beichert.................................................................. Timely Signs of Kingston J. Michael Bruhn, Jr., Esq................................................................... Attorney at Law Joe Charmello...................................................................... Brad’s Barns & Gazebos Jeremy Ellenbogen................................................................Ellenbogen Group, Inc. Cecilia Savona Madden................. Ulster County Office of Employment and Training Su Marcy........................................................................United Way of Ulster County Christopher Marx...........................................SUNY Ulster-Business Resource Center Mark Mulpeter.............................................................Central Hudson Gas & Electric John F. Murphy..........................................................................Murphy Realty Group Sylvia Murphy........................................................................... Marketing Consultant Kevin Quilty....................................... Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley Greg Riley..........................................MassMutual Westchester-Hudson Valley Office Harris L. Safier............................................. Westwood Metes & Bounds Realty, Ltd. David Scarpino...................................................HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley STAFF Ward D. Todd.............................................................................................. President Robert Hirsch.............................. Director of Business Services and Communication Carol Ricken.......................................................................... Director of Membership Valerie Walsh..................................................................................... Office Manager Robert Mitchell........................................................................ Chamber News Editor Ingrid Kulick................................................ Chamber Foundation Executive Director
ChamberNews
The official publication of the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce is a special advertising supplement to the Daily Freeman 79 Hurley Avenue, Kingston, NY 12401 – A 21st Century Media publication Robert O’Leary, General Manager Tim Tergeoglou, Advertising Director Cheryl Nekos, Graphic Design To advertise, please call (845) 331-5000. To subscribe, please call (888) 699-7699
ChamberNews
Wednesday, October 1, 2014 • Daily Freeman Advertising Supplement
The Official Publication of the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce
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Keegan Ales Hosts Mixer Cancer Awareness In The Spotlight Tommy Keegan, the owner of Keegan Ales, has watched two of his staffers battle cancer in recent years. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Keegan has decided to put the issue front and center when he hosts the Chamber’s next Business-After-Hours Mixer from 5-7 p.m. Oct. 27 at 20 St. James St. in Kingston “We’re going to be doing a whole bunch of games,” Keegan said. “It’s going to be a game night. That will all be for raising money for breast cancer awareness. “It’s a Chamber Mixer in October so it just seemed to make sense.” Keegan said the games would include beanbag tosses, a dunk tank, Frisbee toss, darts, and more. The proceeds will be donated to fight breast cancer. The Gold Hope Duo, featuring Lara Hope and Matt “The Knife” Goldpaugh, will provide music. The group performs rhythm and blues, country, folk, and rockabilly. The Mixer will not be the end of Keegan’s involvement in raising awareness about cancer and health care. He is also helping to raise money for the O+ Festival in October. “I’ve been a sponsor of the O+ Festival since its inception,” Keegan said. “Every year, including this year, we make a special brew for the event.” Keegan said this year’s brew would be named WO+LF, named after former Keegan Ales manager Tom Wolf, who just recently died of cancer. The brew will be available all over Ulster County with proceeds going to the festival. “This year, because of his recent passing and the O+ Festival’s commitment to health care, we decided to make it in his honor,” Keegan said. “He was a very instrumental part of the music scene in general here. He ran and built the entire music scene at Keegan Ales so it just seemed appropriate.” Keegan founded Keegan Ales, a Kingston institution, in 2003. He learned about an empty building on St. James Street that nobody would buy because there was a defunct brewery inside. The structure was built in the early 1800s and was most recently home to the
OCTOBER MIXER Mon., October 27 • 5-7 pm
Sponsored by:
20 St. James Street • Kingston
Keegan Ale will host the Chamber’s next Business-AfterHours Mixer at 20 St. James Street in Kingston. Woodstock Brewing Company. network like that.” Keegan Ales brewed its first “On a day-by-day basis, I know batch of beer on Aug. 1, 2003. I and a lot of other business ownKeegan then set out hand-selling ers share the sentiment that we just beer to local get tied up in the bars and restau- “It’s a great opportunity day-by-day stuff, rants the next for all of us to get under and you get tied to month. one roof because we’re your own building. Keegan Ales all tied up in our own You’re stuck in your has gone on own four walls.” businesses” to win several Keegan said deals – Tommy Keegan awards over the get done when busiyears, includness leaders get a ing Best Brewery in The Hudson chance to relax away from the Valley and Best Brewery in New hustle and bustle. York State in 2009. In 2010, the “It’s nice to have that,” he said. Ulster Chamber honored Keegan “It really is. That’s truly a benefit Ales as the 2010 Small Business of these Chamber Mixers for me of the Year. personally.” Keegan, like many other busiChamber mixers are a great ness owners, said he appreciates way to network and promote your the relaxed atmosphere of the business. Be sure to bring plenty Chamber’s mixers. of business cards. This free net“It’s a great opportunity for all working event is open to Chamber of us to get under one roof because members and prospective memwe’re all tied up in our own busi- bers. Reservations are a must and nesses,” he said. “We all know can be made by calling the Chameach other and know we have to ber office at (845) 338-5100 or be support each other and it’s help- registering online at www.ulsterful to our businesses when we can chamber.org.
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ChamberNews
The Official Publication of the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce
Daily Freeman Advertising Supplement • Wednesday, October 1, 2014
‘This is a Game Changer’ Buy Local Expo a Huge Success
The Chamber’s popular Buy Local Expo is sometimes casually referred to as a “trade show,” Chamber President Ward Todd acknowledged in kicking off the Sept. 17 event. “I will submit to you that this is so much more than a trade show,” Todd said. “This really is an ‘Economy Booster’. This is a ‘Game Changer’. This is your opportunity as leaders of great local businesses and organizations to set yourselves apart from the rest.” This year’s Buy Local Expo was the 18th for the Chamber and Todd cheered on the nearly 100 businesses showcasing themselves at the Diamond Mills Conference Center in Saugerties. “We hear so much about people who are busy and get out from behind their desks,” Todd said. “You’ve made that decision to move from behind your desks to be here in Saugerties at Diamond Mills to meet people and to grow your business.” “You and your businesses are what is going to move our economy forward. If our local economy is to succeed, it will be because of you. The Chamber will continue to talk about buying local and shopping local, but we need all of your support.” Ulster County Executive Michael Hein called the business leaders at the Expo “my heroes” and urged them to “network the heck out of this thing.” “Thank you very much for the job creation you do, thank you very much for making a difference in the lives of people, thank you very much for always pursuing the American Dream,” Hein said. “Ladies and gentlemen, it matters what you do. “I’m privileged to be a county executive in a place that has businesses like this, an organization like our Chamber, and a place like Diamond Mills.” Many others spoke during the opening ceremony about the spectacular venue of Diamond Mills, which is situated along the waterfront in Saugerties. Exhibitors could walk out on the patio during breaks and enjoy a waterfall. Town of Saugerties Supervisor Greg Helsmoortel called Diamond Mills “a tremendous facility, a tremendous asset to Saugerties, which certainly contributes to
The Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce Expo 2014 had a great turnout. day networking on the exhibit floor and our economic development.” Tom Struzzieri, the owner of Diamond sharing business cards, small gifts bearing Mills, said he couldn’t be more pleased their logos, candy, conversation and a bit about hosting the Expo for the second about their companies. Jeremy Ellenbogen, president and CEO straight year. “This is a very special event for us be- of Ellenbogen Creative Media, walked cause those of you who know me, and away with a major Chamber booth award know Diamond Mills, know that com- for his unique presentation. While most of his clients are currently merce is very important to us, especially located outside Ulster County, Ellenbogen local commerce,” he said. Todd explained how the Chamber’s for- would like to change that. “So often we spend time behind the edmer Business Showcase was rebranded last year to the Buy Local Expo, “which iting desk, behind the console, behind the really speaks to the heart of our mission, camera, and we don’t get to interface with which is to encourage local buying and fellow businesses,” Ellenbogen said. “We find that we really need to be able to conshopping right here in our region.” The Chamber needed something “spe- nect to the companies that are here. “It’s nice to see the other local comcial and unique” and found it with Diapanies here like sign shops and printing mond Mills, Todd said. “We have been delighted with our deci- companies and office furniture—a lot of the people we already do business with— sion,” he said. Terry Parisian, President of the Cham- but it’s nice to kind of make a connection ber’s Board of Directors and General with them as well.” Todd O’Brien, manager of the UPS Manager of the Hudson Valley Mall, Store in the King’s Mall, used the Expo thanked the Expo participants. “The Chamber can’t be what it is with- to unveil the company’s new 3D printer, which drew curious onlookers and another out you people being here,” he said. Business leaders spent the rest of the major booth award from the Chamber.
“We’re excited to be bringing 3D printing to Kingston and really offering it as a retail service,” he said. “The UPS Store focuses on small businesses so it’s a perfect fit for us to introduce the 3D printing and our regular services to small businesses here at the Expo.” Bill Blair, the owner of Blair Collectibles in Pine Hill, brought along an assortment of coins, paper money, marbles, baseball cards, jewelry, and old photos. Blair said he hoped to “meet some folks who inherited or have things they don’t know what to do with. Maybe I can help them out in how to place or sell the item.” The Expo also drew its share of nonprofit companies looking for business partners, such as the Center for Spectrum Services. “We love being at the Expo,” said Susan Buckler, a co-founder of the group. “We love being surrounded by local businesses. “Many of the people who have booths here are donors to our agency. We like to be able to come and thank them and show them information about our program and meet new potential contributors.” Wayne Williams, director of partner relations for The Sound of Life Christian radio network, said he hoped to partner with businesses. While the station has no advertising and is listener-supported, it does partner with businesses. “We’re involved in the community,” he said. “We want to be a local Christian radio station that provides some hope. “We’re very much a part of the Chamber, and we want to do what we can to help promote businesses.” The Chamber gave away awards to the Expo’s top exhibitors. Ellenbogen Creative Media won first place in the Best in Show category with J&J Tree Works second and Home Plate Deli third. The Reis Group was recognized for having the Most Friendly Staff; the UPS Store won for Most Effective Demonstration; Normann Staffing for Best New Exhibitor; River Radiology for Most Creative Giveaways; and SUNY Ulster for Most Original Booth Design.
ChamberNews
Wednesday, October 1, 2014 • Daily Freeman Advertising Supplement
The Official Publication of the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce
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Ulster County’s Best Business Awards Dinner - October 23 The Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Ulster County Economic Development Alliance have announced the recipients of their 10th Annual Business Recognition Awards. The awards recognize Ulster County entrepreneurs and businesses that are leaders in their sectors, have achieved outstanding results, or shown dedication and commitment to furthering business and the quality of life in Ulster County and in the Hudson Valley Region. The awards will be presented October 23, 5:30 pm at Wiltwyck Golf Club. The 2014 Ulster County Business Recognition Award recipients are: Business Person of the Year: Scott Dutton Dutton is the owner of Dutton Architecture, a well-known Kingston firm that primarily does commercial work, including offices, medical, retail and industrial. The firm’s work can be seen all over Ulster County, including the Kingston Health Pavilion, Rondout Lighthouse, Mariner’s Harbor, Barcone’s Music Center, Frank Guido’s Little Italy, Institute for Breast Health, Mother Earth’s Storehouse, Rondout Savings Bank and Iron Mountain in Rosendale, U.S. Lace Curtain Factory and KIC Chemical in New Paltz. Business of the Year: The Reis Group The employee-owned company was founded in 1966 with a slogan proclaim-
ing “Insurance Worth Having.” The staff of 40 not only strives for the best customer service, but it’s a company with a community conscience and is involved in a host of local events, including the YMCA board of directors, American Cancer Society Relay for Life, Benedictine Health Foundation, the Children’s Home of Kingston and many more. Small Business of the Year: Deising’s Bakery & Restaurant For more than 40 years, this mainstay of the Ulster County business community has provided employment and delicious delicacies in both Uptown and Midtown Kingston. Founded by Uwe and Ingrid Deising of Hamburg, Germany, and still a family-owned business, Deising’s has won several awards over the years, including “Best Retail Bakery” Award from Bakery Production Magazine. Deising’s restaurant is also a hit hit with customers and was named “Best Breakfast in the Hudson Valley” in 2005. Cultural Business of the Year: Hudson River Maritime Museum Members of the Steamboat Historical Society of America and local citizens founded the museum in 1980. The museum collects and preserves artifacts and objects related to the history of shipping, boating and industries such as brickmaking, cement, ice harvesting and boat building on the Hudson River. They include archival material related
to steamboats, tugboats, ferries, iceboats and industries. Known for its 1898 tugboat, Mathilda, outside in the yard, the museum also has small boats on display in its East Gallery and many items related to boats such as steam gauges and lanterns. The museum regularly hosts school groups and lectures as well as historic vessels, including sloop Clearwater and the Cornell and Gowanus Bay tugboats. New Building Project of the Year: Alfandre Architecture The company recently completed a
5,400-square-foot building at 231 Main St. in New Paltz and includes several environmentally sustainable features, including photovoltaic panels, high-efficiency light fixtures and airtight insulated concrete forms for the walls. Other features include super-efficient windows, motion-sensored light switches and a rainwater harvest system. The building was developed, financed, designed and constructed by Rick Alfandre through Alfandre Architecture, which has designed more than 200 projects that Continued on page 7
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ChamberNews
Daily Freeman Advertising Supplement • Wednesday, October 1, 2014
The Official Publication of the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce
Breakfast to Feature Assembly Hopefuls Continued from page 1 the state, preventing economic growth and forcing our children to leave New York to seek opportunity elsewhere,” he said. Roberts, a former chairman of the Ulster County Resource Recovery Agency’s board of directors, said he also would discuss how “unfunded mandates are unfair and punish those who can least afford them.” The 103rd Assembly District includes the city of Kingston and Ulster County towns of Esopus, Gardiner, Hurley, Kingston, Marbletown, New Paltz, Olive, Plattekill, Rochester, Rosendale, Shandaken, Ulster and Woodstock. The candidates in the 104th Assembly District are Assemblyman Frank Skartados, D-Milton, and Republican challenger Sakima Green-Brown of Poughkeepsie. Skartados, who is seeking a third term, said that he refuses taxpayer-funded travel pay and will vote no on any pay raise. He voted to increase the minimum wage and said he has worked to create good-paying jobs in the Hudson Valley. “I got right to work in the Assembly fighting to lower taxes, bring jobs in our district, build up our local economy, and stand up for Hudson Valley families, but there’s still more work to be done,” he said. Green-Brown is a graduate of the U.S. Military Acad-
emy at West Point, an Iraqi War veteran and a former member of the board of Poughkeepsie City Schools. New York’s leading small business association, the National Federation of Independent Business, has endorsed Green-Brown. “My entire life has been about Frank Skartados public service and being involved to strengthen our local community,” she said on her campaign website. “If elected, I will work to promote policies that strengthen our community. I will be available and listen to you, the people, about your concerns and how policies implemented in Albany impact our families and local Sakima Green-Brown communities.” The 104th District includes the towns of Lloyd and Marlborough in Ulster County. Republican Assemblywoman Claudia Tenney, R-New Hartford, has no major party opposition in the 101st District. Tenney won a GOP primary last month against Herkimer County Sheriff Christopher FarClaudia Tenney ber, who remains on the Independence Party line in November. Farber, of Little Falls, said on his Facebook page that he plans to “campaign hard.” Tenney, a businesswoman and attorney, is the co-owner and legal counsel to Mid-York Press, Inc., a commercial printing and manufacturing firm that employs Christopher Farber nearly 80 people. The 101st Assembly District, stretching from Oneida to Orange counties, includes the towns of Hardenburgh, Denning, Wawarsing and Shawangunk in Ulster County. Assemblyman Peter Lopez, R-Schoharie, is also unopposed in the 102nd Assembly District, Peter Lopez which includes only the town of Saugerties in Ulster County. Chamber breakfast programs are a great way to network with other local business leaders and stay on top of current events. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged. For more information or to register, call the Chamber at (845) 338-5100 or go online at www.ulsterchamber.org.
Birchez Associates Launches Grant Program Foundation Will Award First Grants This Month
Birchez Associates has announced the establishment of the Birchez Foundation—a grant program that will benefit organizations providing services that support senior citizens, U.S. military veterans, education and the environment. The first grants will be announced this month. “Contributing to the towns and villages where we build Birchez communities has always been one of the company’s top priorities,” said Steven Aaron, founder and managing partner of Birchez Associates. “The Birchez Foundation will allow us to reach a new level of corporate giving. I feel very strongly about the need to support the community groups and programs that enhance the quality of life.” The Birchez Foundation will be administered in concert with the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley, an independent philanthropic organization that serves numerous counties throughout the region. The Birchez Foundation will give preference to programs that concentrate on four areas of focus: • Providing services to senior citizens • Advocacy for U.S. military veterans • Supporting educational programs • Preserving or improving the environment “We feel a great obligation to help fund programs that deliver critical services to senior citizens, educational organizations and military veterans—the cornerstones of local communities,” said Aaron. “Preserving the Hudson Valley’s precious environment is one of our company’s trademarks and we believe our communities enhance the beauty of their neighborhoods.” A volunteer advisory committee comprised of community and business leaders will help determine the allocation of Foundation grant money to worthy organizations. The members of the committee will be announced soon. Birchez Foundation grants will be awarded bi-annually. Grants will provide monies for start-up support/seed money, organizational capacity building or technical assistance. For an application, write to Birchez Associates, P.O. Box 2940, Kingston, NY 12402 or email:
[email protected]. Founded in 2002, Birchez Associates (Building Ideas for Rural Community Housing) is a development company based in Kingston and is committed to providing affordable, quality housing for seniors, workforce families and veterans. Birchez Associates has developed five affordable housing communities in Ulster County: Chambers Court (Town of Ulster), The Birches at Chambers (Town of Ulster), The Birches at Saugerties, The Birches at Esopus (Ulster Park) and Birchwood Village (Kingston). Visit www.Birchez.com to learn more about the company.
Wednesday, October 1, 2014 • Daily Freeman Advertising Supplement
ChamberNews
The Official Publication of the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce
7
Mike’s Office Furniture Sets You Up The Best of New, Used Furnishings
Maybe you’re thinking of opening a new business, but you don’t want to splurge on office furniture. Mike’s Office Furniture at 299 South Wall St. in Kingston might be worth a call. They offer the best in new and, yes, used furniture. “People who are opening a new business might not want to invest a ton of money in their office to open up right at the beginning, but at the same time they still want really nice stuff,” explained owner Donald Shuman. “You can do that with top-notch quality used furniture. Some of the used furniture that we get in is basically brand new anyway.” Shuman said his business is split about 50-50 between new and used purchases. “Most of our used stuff comes up out of [New York City],” he said. “We try to deal with mostly just A-grade used furniture, your top-line stuff. “We do deal some when local businesses are closing down or downsizing. We will buy there as well, but most of our stuff comes up out of the city.” The furniture is on display at the company’s 10,000-square-foot showroom at 299 South Wall St. in Kingston. Customers can also come in and order new furniture out of catalogues or visit the website
Donald and Darlene Shuman at www.mikesofficefurniture.com. “Anything in our catalogues we can get in just a couple of days,” Shuman said. Shuman said the company also offers layout assistance for local businesses. “We’ll come to your office, we’ll lay out your furniture for you, and we don’t charge for that,” he said. “We’ll just come and help you figure out what you want and tell you what will fit where and lay it all out for you.” The company also offers assembly and delivery. “We bring it, put it in place and set it up,” he said. “One of the things you get here that you’re not going to get most oth-
er places is the service that we provide. We stand 100 percent behind everything we do. Basically it’s our name that’s out there. “We do make sure that everything that comes to you is assembled and in perfect working order. If it’s not, we’re going to come and we’re going to fix it. We’re always going to stand behind it. Not just for a day or two or a week. That’s why we’ve been here as long as we’ve been here.” Shuman said Mike’s also tries to “stay away from all the store furniture.” “We prefer to sell you something that’s going to give you as much life as possible.” Mike Weiner started Mike’s Office Furniture about 50 years ago. Shuman began working there about 30 years ago. “I started working here just delivering and assembling furniture,” Shuman said. “Eventually I took over and managed the store for Mike for a number of years.” Shuman and his wife, Darlene, bought the business in 1996 and decided to keep the familiar name. “There was just no sense in changing the name because it had been known as Mike’s Office Furniture for so long,” he said.
Shuman said Mike’s Office Furniture does advertise widely, but “word of mouth is always our best advertiser.” The company’s longevity and stellar reputation keep customers coming back. “We’ve been here a long time,” he said. “We have a number of larger customers who have done business with us basically forever. We do our best to make sure we treat them right and they continue to come back to us.” Shuman said he also takes advantage of the Chamber’s monthly mixers and the annual Buy Local Expo to find new customers. “Those events allow you to meet businesses that you haven’t seen before,” he said. “It also allows us to touch base with customers we haven’t seen in a while. You bump into the people you’ve done business with over the years and it reminds them that you’re still there.” Shuman said seeing him at the mixers also reminds some customers that it’s time for new office furniture. “We’ve had customers place orders right at those venues,” he said. “It just keeps your name out there.” Mike’s Office Furniture, 299 South Wall St. in Kingston, can be reached at (845) 3314027 or www.mikesofficefurniture.com.
Ulster County’s Best Business Awards Dinner - October 23 Continued from page 5 include residences, churches, retail spaces, hotels and resorts since the company was founded in 1991. Adaptive Re-Use Building Project of the Year: Ulster County Patriots Project Ulster County Executive Michael Hein unveiled plans in his 2012 State of the County address to end homelessness among local veterans. His administration identified a vacant former group home in Kingston at 67 Wurts St. The property was transferred to the county for the cost of $1. Over the past two years, more than one hundred local businesses and organizations stepped forward to raise money for the renovations. While government build-
ings have not been considered for similar awards in the past, the Chamber and the Economic Development Alliance believed that the Patriots Project was the best possible example of a true PrivatePublic project and would not have been completed without the contribution of local businesses. Tourism Business of the Year: Mohonk Preserve New York’s largest member and visitorsupported nature preserve draws 165,000 visitors to southern Ulster County each year to shop, dine and stay locally. More than 12,000 people visit each year for the award-winning outdoor education programs. The Preserve also supports more than 300 regional businesses through vendor
relationships. The Smiley family, which owns the nearby Mohonk Mountain House, helped create the Mohonk Trust in 1963 to permanently protect the Shawangunk Ridge. The name has since been changed to the Mohonk Preserve. Heart of Ulster County Award: Robert Siracusano When the owner of Sawyers Motors in Saugerties heard about the Ulster County Patriots Project, he decided to donate all of the proceeds from the Sawyer Motors Car Show last year. The car show is one of the region’s most highly anticipated events and draws thousands each year to boost the local economy. Siracusano is well known in “Friendly
Saugerties” as the man with a big heart— and for organizing the community’s Christmas celebration (and toy giveaway) and raising funds for Saugerties athletics and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Chamber President Ward Todd said, “The Chamber would like to congratulate the winners and to offer special thanks to those who provided the nominations and the independent panel for the final selections”. Todd added that “these Best of Ulster County awards are peer-driven and an excellent way for the business community to recognize outstanding efforts.” Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the October 23rd Dinner are available at www.UlsterChamber.org.
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Wednesday, October 1, 2014 • Daily Freeman Advertising Supplement
Anniversaries 40 Years: Gateway Industries Timely Signs
35 Years: Mass Mutual Financial Group/Kingston 25 Years: Kingston Housing Authority 20 Years: Woodstock Landscaping & Excavating Mother Earth’s Storehouse, Inc. Skydive The Ranch Town Tinker Tube Rentals 10 Years: B & L Stables Bop to Tottom JFS of Ulster County Town of Saugerties Warren Electric Supply 5 Years: HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley Tim Hurley, Realtor Jerry’s Wood Floor Refinishing
CORPORATE LEADERS Rondout Savings Bank Ulster Savings Bank
CORPORATE PARTNERS M&T Bank Mohonk Mountain House Central Hudson Gas & Electric
CORPORATE SUPPORTERS HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley Naccarato Insurance
ChamberNews
The Official Publication of the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce
9
These Members Have Renewed A & D Pumps AAA Fuel and Service, Inc. A-All-Phase Electric American Red Cross of the Mid-Hudson Valley Ameriprise Financial, S.M. Miller & Associates AMPM Homecare & Companion Ande Rooney Companies Inc. Association for the Promotion of Jewish Secularism Bailey Pottery Equipment Corp. The Bank of Greene County Beauty Prophet Berardi, Gottstine & Miller, CPAs, PC Big Belly Deli Binnewater Ice Co., Inc. Boulevard Liquors Bounce Trampoline Sports Buonsignore Construction Corp. Buttermilk Falls Inn & Spa C2G Environmental Consultants, LLC David J. Clegg, Esq. Club Pet Country Care Carpet Cleaning Crafts People Cutting Corner Hair Salon & Day Spa Deising’s Bakery & Restaurant Dentists’ Office of the Hudson Valley Destinations Ireland & BEYOND Joseph Diacovo, DMD Emerson Resort & Spa Environmental Pest Management FASTSIGNS Fireside Warmth Inc. Fitz’s Liquor Store, Inc Marg Garvila, MSW, LCSW-R, CT Gateway Community Industries, Inc. Goosetown Communications Home Plate Deli & Caterers
Hudson Valley Sunrooms Hurley Veterinary Hospital PC Interior Analysis Janine Weil, Ltd. Jerry’s Wood Floor Refinishing Kate’s Lazy Meadow Keegan Ales, LLC Kingston Audiology Center The Kingston Film Festival Landmark Development Co. Inc. Made From Coins Marist College (Office of the President) MassMutual Financial Group/Kingston Next Boutique Night Owl Productions Inc. Northern Sling & Industrial Supplies Pardee’s Agency Inc. Nicholas Pascaretti PDQ Printing Plus Signs The Perfect Blend Yarn & Tea Shop Phoenicia Diner POH Music Poughkeepsie Day School Resource Center For Accessible Living, Inc. River Rock Health Spa Ryan, Roach & Ryan, LLP Santa Fe Uptown Shawangunk Journal Snippers of Kingston, Inc. Sound of LIFE Radio Network Soyuzivka - Ukrainian National Association Timely Signs Tobacco Free Action Communities in Ulster, Dutchess & Sullivan Visionexcel WCD Window Coverings, Inc. Louis M. Werbalowsky, LTCP/CLTC Wolberg Lighting Design & Electrical Supply Woodstock Landscaping & Excavating, LLC Wright Architects
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ChamberNews
The Official Publication of the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce
Daily Freeman Advertising Supplement • Wednesday, October 1, 2014
We can help you rethink health insurance. Every company is unique. That’s why CDPHP® offers so many different benefit packages and plans. From traditional health plans to innovative solutions that give you extra help in controlling costs, like high deductible and value-based options, as well as funding accounts. And depending on the size of your company, we can help administer self-funded options.
www.cdphp.com
We also offer more ways to involve your employees in their health. From mobile apps to track exercise and diet, to online help with finding a doctor. All this, plus a national network of more than 725,000 providers. Call us. We want to be your plan for life. To learn more, call your broker or CDPHP at 1.800.993.7299.
Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan, Inc. Capital District Physicians’ Healthcare Network, Inc. CDPHP Universal Benefits,® Inc.
ChamberNews
Wednesday, October 1, 2014 • Daily Freeman Advertising Supplement
The Official Publication of the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce
11
WELCOME THESE NEW MEMBERS American Reliant Corp.
Grand Street Medical Associates
Tractor Supply Co.
1100 Josephs Blvd. Saugerties, NY 12477 www.americanreliant.com Phone (845) 247-8121 Jim Cranston, Primary Contact Category: Solar Energy Description: Renewable and Solar Energy, System Design, Engineering and Sales. Emphasizing Commercial Solar-Thermal.
27 Grand Street Kingston, NY 12401 www.GSMAdoc.com Phone (845) 338-1535 Tejas Shah, Administrator Category: Physicians and Surgeons Description: Multi-Specialist - Nephrology, Primary Care, Pulmonary, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, Oncology.
1611 Ulster Avenue Lake Katrine, NY 12449 www.tractorsupply.com Phone (845) 336-5038 Shawn Adorno, Store Manager Category: Retail Description: Farm and Ranch Retailer. Pet, Livestock Feed, Bird Seed, Clothing, Boots, Tools, Trucks, Trailers, Outdoor Goods, Lawn, Garden & Farm Equipment.
Capacity Business Consulting
Grounded NY
PO Box 11179 Newburgh, NY 12552 www.CapacityConsultingInc.com Phone (845) 764-9484 Eric Egeland, President Category: Consultants - Business Description: Feasibility, Funding, Analysis, Improvement
83 Broadway Kingston, NY 12401 www.Facebook.com/GroundedNY Phone (845) 514-3432 Linda Laestadius, Owner Category: Restaurants Description: Grounded . . . Because we know where our food comes from.
DR. DENNIS OPPENHEIMER, DDS and Hudson Valley Fastbraces
Kingston Green Dry Cleaners
195 Washington Avenue Kingston, NY 12401 www.OPPENHEIMERDENTISTRY.com Phone (845) 514-2815 Dr. Dennis Oppenheimer, Dentist/Owner Category: Dentists Description: Cosmetic and General Dentistry and orthodontic (braces) services.
Galileo Technology Group PO Box 4029 Kingston, NY 12402 Phone (845) 481-8641 Ms. Petra Klein, Managing Partner Category: Consultants - Technology Description: Galileo Technology Group (GTG) is an applied technology, operations, management and commercialization consulting group with industrial, mechanical and electrical engineers, material scientist, technical experts and experienced executive management and operations professionals. GTG’s managing partners have extensive technical and executive experience in diverse manufacturing industry sectors. GTG’s high touch and high-end consulting group is uniquely “portable”, and cost-effectively enables onsite/on demand HR services and personnel on premises for Small and Medium (SMEs) anywhere in NYS.
781 Broadway Kingston, NY 12401 www.kgdc.us Phone (845) 532-4324 Tejas Shah, Administrator Category: Dry Cleaners Description: Committed to green dry cleaning, Kingston Green Dry Cleaners uses non-toxic dry cleaning solutions and eco friendly wet cleaning techniques.
Kingston Post Office 90 Cornell Street Kingston, NY 12401 www.usps.gov Leon Griffin, Postmaster Category: Mailing Services Description: Mail delivery. Assisting in all mailing needs. Passport accepting unit.
Rondout Valley Engine Service 4969 Route 209 Accord, NY 12404 Email:
[email protected] Phone (845) 626-3412 Tony Kawalchuk, Owner Category: Lawn Mower Repair & Service Description: Selling Commercial Turf Mowers, Parts, Mower Repair.
Ulster Gastroenterology 3525 Route 9W Highland, NY 12528 www.UlsterGastro.com Phone (845) 309-7597 Dr. Reham Elshaer, Owner Category: Physicians and Surgeons Description: A Board-Certified Gastroenterologist, who can help you with IBS, Colon Cancer Screening, Acid Reflux, Swallowing problems, Liver disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Disease.
WAKA Kickball & Social Sports 67 N. Parsonage St. Rhinebeck, NY 12572 www.kickball.com Phone (845) 678-3122 Johnny LeHane, Co-owner, CIO Category: Recreation Description: WAKA provides kickball leagues, parties and events in Poughkeepsie, Kingston and throughout the U. S.
Yonnetti’s Restoration Unlimited LLC 2889 Route 32 Kingston, NY 12401 Phone (845) 901-8888 John Yonnetti, Owner Category: Contractors - General Description: From Home to Auto, we restore it all!
Building Relationships • Connecting Business Leaders • Advocating for Small Business The Voice & Choice of Business in Ulster County
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ChamberNews
Daily Freeman Advertising Supplement • Wednesday, October 1, 2014
The Official Publication of the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce
September Mixer Sponsored By
BEGNAL MOTORS
SEPTEMBER 24, 2014 Begnal Motors Kingston, New York
Larry Begnal (R) and the staff of Begnal Motors, our Mixer Host and Sponsor.
(L-R) Joe Szepessy (Trustco Bank), James Sass III, Jessica Sass (J & J Sass Electric, Inc.)
Sara LaTorre (simply business, inc.), Anne Larkin-Ede, Leslie Karwacki (Heritagenergy), Aris Henderson (simply business inc.)
Tim Hurley Realtor (Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty), Seth Allen, Nancy Donksoj (Broadway Photo Booth), Maureen Sheehan (WBPM Radio)
Michael Treanor (Nevele Resort Casino & Spa), Susan Koppenhaver (Always There), Eric Atkins (Nevele Resort Casino & Spa), Lindsay Burgess (Mid Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union), Christine Kajkowski (Rhinebeck Bank), Michael Smith (Nevele Resort Casino & Spa)
Angela Selby, Diane Moylan (Cutting Corner Hair Salon & Day Spa), Annie Dye, Declan O’Brien (Destinations Ireland & Beyond)
