News items

James Chapman (photo courtesy The Rhinecliff)

The Rhinecliff celebrates fifth anniversary

RHINECLIFF (June 18) - Brits James and David Chapman purchased and restored the historic Rhinecliff on the Hudson, infused it with British charm, added nine luxurious guest rooms and a farm- to-table gastropub serving locally sourced items including Hudson Valley raised beef to make their popular "Meiller Farms Burger."

The Chapman Brothers renovated and opened the historic railroad hotel in 2008, creating a historic landmark on the Hudson and making The Rhinecliff   a vital part of the Rhinebeck community and a key landmark to visit while enjoying New York’s mid-Hudson Valley

Five years later they’ve carried on and prospered, with their business evolving over time to emphasize catering to special occasion celebrations.  Getting married or celebrating a special event, the Rhinecliff has become the most popular location on the river, hosting nearly one hundred special occasion events annually. The brothers also bring “The Rhinecliff experience," with their exceptional off-premise catering to myriad   locations throughout the Catskills and New York's Hudson Valley.

“We create the conditions that allow stress free special celebrations to happen,” emphasizes James Chapman.

Between the open-air patio overlooking the Hudson, the exciting pub area, seats at the bar, the nine luxurious guest rooms, the upstairs banquet room and the garden, there is a location at The Rhinecliff to suit any mood or occasion.

The Rhinecliff was the first Hotel in the Hudson Valley to be certified as "GREEN," by NY State.  The Rhinecliff has received superlative reviews from various media organizations, including the National Geographic Traveler Designating The Rhinecliff as one of their top "Must Visit Hotels," and many outstanding compliments from satisfied clients. “Can’t thank you enough for making our special day more amazing than we could have ever imagined.  Could not imagine anything more perfect.  Eternally grateful!  Everyone should get married at the Rhinecliff!” stated Jane McManus Bernstein & Matthew Terrance.

Proprietor James Chapman says that "We are so enjoying our fifth year with many special events planned.  We will top it off with a very special 5th Anniversary Party/Celebration in September.  We invite you to come down and enjoy all that the restored Rhinecliff has to offer.”

The Rhinecliff is located at 4 Grinnell St. Rhinecliff, NY. Open Daily for breakfast, lunch & dinner. Visit www.therhinecliff.com for dining hours/menus/daily specials, special event schedules and room rates.

Boniface

Jennifer Boniface promoted at accounting firm

NEWBURGH (June 18) – Jennifer Boniface, of Bloomingburg, has been promoted to Senior Accountant. Jennifer joined the firm of Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell, LLP in February 2008. She works in the Client Service Department in the Orange County office. Jennifer is a graduate of Mount Saint Mary’s College.

“Jennifer has worked hard over the last couple years, and I am very proud of her”, said Managing Partner, Tom Weddell.  “She is a team player in our Client Service Department. Congratulations on a well deserved promotion.”

Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell have offices in Newburgh, Wappinger’s and Tarrytown.  They provide accounting, auditing, tax and business consulting services to clients in the greater Hudson Valley, as well as in other areas of New York State, New Jersey and several other states.

Weisman-Estis with husband Jon and son Reid

Deborah Weisman-Estis honored by Women’s Bar Association

BLOOMINGBURG (June 18) - The Women’s Bar Association of Orange & Sullivan Counties held its Thirty-Fourth Installation & Annual Dinner recently.  Deborah Weisman-Estis, Esq. of Rider, Weiner & Frankel, P.C. was honored with the 2013 Rose S. Rosen Award for her significant contributions to the legal community.  The Chapter was joined for the evening by Donna Frosco, Esq., the President of the Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York and Irene Villacci, Esq., President-Elect of the Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York. 

During the evening, the 2013-2014 directors of the Chapter were sworn in by the Honorable Sandra B. Sciortino.  The Directors are: Hannah Rose Prall, Esq., President; Rebecca Baldwin Mantello, Esq., President-Elect and Treasurer; Elizabeth Cassidy, Esq., Vice President; Clara Lipinsky, Esq., Vice President; Kara Cavallo, Esq., Corresponding Secretary; Kaon Lai, Esq., Recording Secretary; Milana Tepermayster, Esq., Immediate Past President and Delegate to the Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York and Deborah Weisman-Estis, Esq., Delegate to the Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York.

Hudson Highlands Nature Museum welcomes new education director

CORNWALL (June 17) – The Hudson Highlands Nature Museum announces and welcomes Lisa Mechaley as its new Education Director.

More details on our Education Page

Poughkeepsie resident, Publisher Tom Martinelli celebrates 10th anniversary of New York By Rail Magazine

NYBR Anniversary cake with Publisher Tom Martinelli, Amtrak Marketing rep Debbie Sanderson, and Transportation Analyst Charles Poltenson Sr., New York State Dept. of Transportation at NY's Penn Station (photo: cherphotos.com)

NEW YORK (June 13) - Martinelli  Custom Publishing’s  award winning  NEW YORK BY RAIL MAGAZINE celebrated their 10th anniversary May 16th  at New York’s Penn Station as part of New York By Rail Day

Media and friends joined publisher Tom Martinelli and Martinelli Custom Publishing staff in the rotunda at NYC’s Penn Station to help celebrate the 10th anniversary publication  of their New York By Rail Magazine (NYBRM). A light luncheon and anniversary cake were served at noon or invited guests.

Publisher Tom  Martinelli  said  “NEW YORK BY RAIL MAGAZINE is Amtrak’s® annual travel and destination guide for travel between New York City, Vermont and Canada.  It has been a banner year for us, we are very proud of this year’s NYBR Magazine. The 2013 edition of New York By Rail , the 2nd largest issue ever features 108 pages a 29% increase over last year’s publication includes two very special sections, a 32 page insert promoting I Love NY’s new Path Through History tourism initiative and an 8 page insert from New York State Canals. 

Martinelli’s Publication of New York By Rail Magazine was launched by Martinelli Custom Publishing in 2004 on behalf of Amtrak with the objective of stimulating train travel on Amtrak to visit the 26 destinations serviced by Amtrak throughout New York State, 8 in Canada and 12 in Vermont. 175,000 copies of the publication are printed annually and given to Amtrak for distribution onboard New York State Amtrak trains, at Amtrak stations throughout New York State, New York State Thruway Information Centers and other means within the travel industry.

 Complimentary copies of the 10th anniversary edition of New York By Rail Magazine can be requested by sending an e-mail to  publisher@newyorkbyrail.com

Concurrent with the publication of the print magazine WWW.NEWYORKBYRAIL.COM website was re-launched as the exclusive destination and travel services website for New York State Amtrak travel.

Martinelli Custom Publishing is a custom publishing company, established in 2003 as a division of Thomas Martinelli Consulting, which develops and markets print and online publications. Martinelli Custom Publishing Won the Prestigious Apex Communications Award in the Custom Publishing Category of “Magazines & Journals.” for the fourth consecutive year in 2012. Mr. Martinelli lives in Poughkeepsie with his wife and three children.

Hyde Park Music in the Parks sponsored by Rhinebeck Bank

RHINEBECK (June 13) - Rhinebeck Bank helped underwrite the 2013 season of the Hyde Park Music in the Parks series for the Town of Hyde Park.

More details on our Entertainment Page

Walden Savings Bank Participates Adopt-a-Highway program

MONTGOMERY (June 5) – Walden Savings Bank announced its most recent community endeavor to partner with Adopt-a-Highway. The project, part of a national initiative working toward cleaner highways and communities, will be led by Walden Savings Bank’s Class of 2012.

Beginning in June, Walden Savings Bank employees will volunteer their time throughout each year to clean up litter along a 1-mile stretch from Black Hawk Road to Main Street in Pine Bush. A sign will be installed at this location to recognize the Bank’s commitment and dedication.

“Walden Savings Bank is always looking for new ways to further our involvement and commitment to our community,” said Derrik Wynkoop, President and CEO of Walden Savings Bank. “This effort was a true collaboration amongst our newest team members, and we are excited to begin our work with Adopt-a-Highway. The project represents a legacy for both the Bank and the Class of 2012.”

The class is comprised of employees who joined Walden Savings Bank in the 2012 calendar year. As part of its dedication to local communities, the Bank each year urges its team to become involved in a new venture or volunteer initiative to give back and positively impact the region. This project, led by Training and Development Manager Johnnieanne Hansen, is part of an orientation program to welcome new employees to the Walden Savings Bank team.

Walden Savings Bank Class of 2012. L-R: Rebecca Vance, Tyler Ryan, Karen Foerst, Niki Folina, Hillary Austin, Johnnieanne Hansen, Crystal Johnson, Katie Ross, Todd Grausso

(contributed photo)

Port Jervis Business of the Week: Port Jervis Computer

PORT JERVIS (May 31) - The Business of the Week is Port Jervis Computer owned and operated by Ted and Kimberly Shaw. The business is at 188 Pike Street.

Ted Shaw has been working with computers since 1998. He is Microsoft Certified and also has his Cisco Certified Networking Engineer (CCNE). Ted and Kimberly live locally and felt that a computer repair and sales store would greatly benefit the Port Jervis Community.

Port Jervis Computer offers new and used computers, electronics, cell phone accessories, computer repair, upgrades, and screen repair.

Port Jervis Computer is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm, and Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm. They accept all major credit cards as well as cash.

For more information about this business; services or products offered, stop by 188 Pike Street or call (845) 382-9072.

To submit an application to be considered for “The Business of the Week” please visit www.portjervisny.org and the ‘Business of the Week’ tab on the left side to obtain an application, or contact Mayor Russell Potter’s Office at (845)858-4017.

Ludwig

HVFCU names new director - HVFCU Insurance Agency

POUGHKEEPSIE (May 5) – Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union (HVFCU) is pleased to announce the addition of Tina Ludwig as Director of the Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union Insurance Agency. In this role she will direct the strategy and operations of the HVFCU Insurance Agency, a department of HVFCU offering auto, home, renters’ and business insurance. She reports to Chelen L. Reyes, Vice President of Retail Delivery and Marketing.

Ms. Ludwig joins HVFCU after more than 14 years of Property and Casualty experience, most recently at The Valley Group as a Team Leader. She is a Certified Professional Insurance Agent (CPIA) and a Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR).  A previous graduate of Leadership Dutchess and a past Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce 40 Under 40 honoree, Tina has served several non-profits including Rebuilding Together Dutchess County, the Chamber’s Leadership Dutchess program, and the American Red Cross.

The HVFCU Insurance Agency is part of Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union, a full service, not-for-profit financial cooperative for individuals and businesses, offering real estate and consumer loans, a wide variety of savings and transactional accounts, investment services, estate planning, and trust services. For more information, visit hvfcu.org.

Catskill Distilling, Ommegang, partner to produce NYS malt whiskey

BETHEL (May 5) - Catskill Distilling Company of Bethel, NY and Brewery Ommegang of Cooperstown, NY have struck an exclusive deal for the distillery to produce a malt whiskey using Hennepin mash, from the brewery's Belgian-style beer production. Hennepin mash is spiced with grains of paradise, coriander, sweet orange peel, and ginger.

The partners are well matched in their grounding in New York State history and agricultural roots. Catskill Distilling, located barely a stone's throw away from the site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, is one of the first New York State Farm Distilleries, licensed by the New York State Farm Distillery Bill, and Ommegang's mash will be only the latest in the list of locally or regionally sourced ingredients that go into its award-winning spirits. Ommegang is headquartered in Cooperstown, not only the site of the Baseball Hall of Fame, but an epicenter of hop production in the 19th century. When Ommegang was founded in 1997, it was the first farmstead brewery built in the USA in over 100 years.

Catskill Distilling's spirits have been distinguished with awards from Fifty Best, F. Paul Pacult's Spirit Journal, and the Ultimate Spirits Challenge, while the quality of Ommegang's line has garnered national and international awards, as well as netted it an agreement with HBO to produce a line of beers inspired by the wildly popular TV show, Game of Thrones.

Monte Sachs, Catskill Distilling Co. owner - distiller: To partner with Ommeganag a Brewery grown in NY producing some of the finest beer anywhere, was a natural. When the distillery hosted an Ommegang tasting and Distiller met Brewer it was a plan hatched out of the passion for creating the Best Brew and Spirits. We are thrilled to be creating this unique product together and to be working with Ommegang for a malt whiskey that will be the first of it's kind.

Phil Leinhart, Ommegang brewmaster, says, "Beer and whiskey are close cousins and I love them both. While we've talked wistfully about the possibility of distilling at Ommegang, the demands of our ongoing growth have made it impossible to do more than talk. Now Catskill Distilling steps in and we are delighted to discover we can enjoy the best of both worlds: fine whiskey distilled from our mash, yet with another party of great skill doing the work. It's about as perfect as it can be."

From the small towns of the Baseball Hall of Fame and the 1969 Woodstock Festival Site will come the Ommegang – Catskill Distilling connection of the Best Brew and Finest Spirits for this soon to be created Malt Whiskey.

DCC Business Honor Society inducts 27

POUGHKEEPSIE (May 5) – Delta Zeta, the Dutchess Community College chapter of business honor society Alpha Beta Gamma, recently welcomed 27 new members into its ranks during a ceremony at the College.

More details on our Education Page

Bibbo

Vicki Bibbo named sales manager of Highrose Ridge

MIDDLETOWN (April 29) - Highrose Ridge, a new community of townhomes in Orange County, NY, has announced the appointment of Vicki Bibbo as Sales Manager.

Ms. Bibbo brings more than 25 years of new home sales experience to Highrose Ridge with a distinct focus on guiding homebuyers through the homeownership process. She was most recently Sales Manager for the Montgomery Group. Among the real estate companies she has worked for include Builder Marketing Services, Lennar Corporation, Mountain Ridge Development, Newburgh Silver Star and Exeter Building Corp. Ms. Bibbo is a resident of Monroe, NY.

Set on a country hillside in the heart of the Hudson Valley, Highrose Ridge features townhomes nestled on cul de sacs in a wooded setting, with an abundance of open green space and natural stone walls weaving throughout. The spacious design of the 3-bedroom, 2½-bathroom homes feature traditional exteriors and open, contemporary interiors.

To learn more about Highrose Ridge visit www.HighroseRidge.com

Ulster County ‘School Bus Driver of the Year’

KINGSTON (April 25) - The Mid-Hudson Transportation Supervisors Association named Ethan Allen Transportation school bus driver Pat Beesmer “2013 Ulster County School Bus Driver of the Year.”

More details on our Educaton Page

Dutchess Chamber presents 2013 Headliner Awards to six local businesses

POUGHKEEPSIE (April 17) - The Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce officially announced the recipients of the fourth annual Headliner Awards during the April Contact Breakfast, bestowing honors upon a group of the Hudson Valley’s finest businesses and/or individuals in the categories of: Leadership in Organization & Community, Outside-the-Box Innovator, Green-Friendly Organization, Continued Growth in Current Economy, and Customer Service.  A special Think Local First award was also handed out.  A committee of past winners and Chamber members selected the 2013 Headliner recipients, and chose all recipients from a diverse pool of community-submitted nominations.  Hudson Valley Fresh generously sponsors the 2013 Headliner Awards.

Tim Dean, President of Marshall and Sterling Insurance, received the Leadership in Organization & Community Award. In 2012, Dean led Marshall and Sterling’s expansion of their group benefits operations by 400 percent through the acquisition of other companies.  He was also instrumental in instituting a companywide strategic plan that has allowed Marshall & Sterling to continue to grow through the recent economic turmoil and high unemployment rates, and has the company primed for even more growth in the future.

The Baptist Home at Brookemeade was honored with the Outside-the-Box Innovator award for introducing the “NEW DAY” program to their residents.  “NEW DAY” provides structured yet creative activities for residents living with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other chronic illnesses.  In just a short time, The Baptist Home has seen incredible progress from the residents participating and the program, noting an increase in their social activity and cognitive function.

Day Seckler is the 2013 recipient of the Green-Friendly Organization award due to their commitment to environmentally responsible innovation.  Day Seckler has exemplified “going green” through their hard work in reducing their energy output by one-third over the past year, becoming a completely paperless operation, and embracing cutting edge remote access and cloud computing solutions that have helped reduce their carbon footprint and utility consumption.

Jen Dunn of The Jen Dunn Agency, Inc., was presented the Continued Growth in Current Economy award.  Dunn boasted an 18-percent growth in her overall agency sales during the past year, including a 16-percent uptick in personnel.  The increased business has allowed Dunn to complete a full renovation of her office space as well as commit to a long-term lease there, all while becoming an official Chartered Financial Consultant through American College.   

ServiceMaster Restore received the coveted Customer Service Award for their undying commitment to going the extra mile.  The company is on call 365 days a year and 24 hours a day, so when a phone rings in their office there are no answering machines.  In addition, ServiceMaster received a net score of 94 percent in a recent customer satisfaction survey, which is a testament to their client’s overwhelming approval of their work.

The special Think Local First Headliner Award was presented to The Brothers that just do Gutters.  Under the leadership of Ryan and Ken Parsons, the entire Brothers team works frequently with Rebuilding Together and Habitat for Humanity in Dutchess County in order to help literally build the community. Furthermore, through the recent Internet marketing campaign “Lend A Like For Local Charities,” The Brothers were able to raise funds for The Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie, and will also be providing support through career training seminars and other recreational activities for residents. 

Founded in 1907, the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce is committed to the growth and development of local businesses and the economy.  For more information about Chamber happenings, the complete events calendar, or to find out how they might best serve as an advocate for you and your business, please visit www.dcrcoc.org.   

Gillinder Glass centennial sun catcher

Tri-State Chamber announces honorees for 23rd Annual Spring Banquet

PORT JERVIS (April 17) - The Tri-State Chamber of Commerce 23rd Annual Spring Banquet will be held on Friday, May 3, from 6:30-10:30pm at the Best Western Inn at Hunt’s Landing in Westfall Township.  The chamber announces the inaugural inductees into the “Hall of Fame”. 

The 2013 class includes: Gillinder Glass, The Pike County Dispatch, Phil’s Ford, Summit Research Labs, State Farm Insurance Port Jervis, and Meloi’s Liquors.  Each of these businesses has been long time members of our Chamber and our communities, serving as industry leaders and great examples of community involvement and support.  Lisa Randazzo-Misczuk will be presented with the “Director’s Spirit” Award, in recognition and thanks for her contributions to our chamber during the previous year as a Director.

Our “Visionary Spirit” Award will be given to Dr. John D’Ambrosio, President of the Orange County Chamber of Commerce. 

“This award is in recognition and appreciation of John’s leadership, strategic vision for the region and his support of our Chamber,” said Executive Director Charlene Trotter.  “It is critical that our chambers focus on the synergy produced by working together to improve the climate for our businesses to grow and flourish in the tri-state area – this is our purpose and mission.” 

This year the chamber has a “Mardi-Gras” themed event full of fun and celebration.  Event tickets are $65 per person and raffle tickets (one $20 and three for $50) may be purchased by contacting the Tri-State Chamber at 845-856-6694 or info@tristatechamber.org.  Event tickets may also be purchased on-line at www.tristatechamber.org. 

Forni

The Ruby Group hires Suzanne Forni as business development manager

GOSHEN (April  7) – The Ruby Group, a Goshen-based project management, general contracting and consulting firm, announced that it has hired Suzanne Forni of Goshen as Business Development Manager.

Forni is a 2000 graduate of the University of Scranton, where she received her bachelor of arts in communication. As business development manager, Suzanne will oversee both sales and project management. She will be working with economic development programs, green and sustainable program administration and direct sales efforts as well as overall growth strategy.

“As The Ruby Group expands its business, it is important for us to have someone on staff to manage the strategic goals of the firm,” said Pete Berman, CEO of The Ruby Group.  “Suzanne’s experience will drive our business development and help us better serve our clients and the community.”

Suzanne is a 2012 graduate of Leadership Orange, which identifies current and emerging leaders and provides them with knowledge and skills to strengthen the communities and the county as a whole and inspire positive change. In 2012, she was recognized as a Rising Star of Orange County. Suzanne is a member of the HONORehg Board of Directors, the Junior League of Orange County and the Wallkill East Rotary.

“I’m proud to be joining the team at The Ruby Group,” commented Forni. “I look forward to building upon existing relationships in the community and fostering new partnerships.”

The Ruby Group, based in Goshen, is a project management, general contracting and consulting firm that serves developers, owners, landlords, tenants and investors in both commercial and residential real estate.  www.rubygrp.com.

HVFCU named one of the ‘Best Companies to Work for’ in NYS

POUGHKEEPSIE (April 7) - Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union has been named one of the Best Companies to Work for in New York for 2013. The designation was awarded to HVFCU by the New York State Society for Human Resource Management and the Best Companies Group, an independent company managing the Best Places to Work programs on state, regional and national levels around the country.

The Best Companies to Work for in New York list is comprised of two groups: small/medium sized companies with 5 to 249 employees; and large sized companies employing 250 or more employees.  HVFCU has been named one of the 20 large sized Best Companies to Work for in New York. This is the fourth year in a row that HVFCU has received this designation.

Companies were evaluated on their workplace policies, practices, philosophies, systems and demographics.  Employees within the companies that were nominated for the award were asked to complete a survey in order to measure each entity’s employee experience. HVFCU will be formally recognized and honored at the Best Companies to Work for in New York awards dinner on April 30, 2013, at the Albany Marriott Hotel. 

Celebrating 50 years of service this year, HVFCU is a full service, not-for-profit financial cooperative for individuals and businesses, offering real estate and consumer loans, a wide variety of savings and transactional accounts, HVFCU serves its more than 267,000 members through branches in Dutchess, Orange, Ulster, and Putnam Counties.  For more information, visit hvfcu.org.

Walkway hires DiMuro as executive assistant

POUGHKEEPSIE (April 5) - The Walkway Over the Hudson organization recently hired Diana DiMuro to serve as the Poughkeepsie-based nonprofit's new executive assistant.

"We are excited about Diana joining the Walkway team," said Walkway Executive Director, Elizabeth Waldstein-Hart. "Diana’s experience in both the nonprofit and business worlds will be a wonderful asset for our busy office as we embark upon several exciting new projects this year.”

A native of the Hudson Valley and a resident of Poughkeepsie, Ms. DiMuro most recently worked with the Girls’ Leadership Worldwide Program at the Eleanor Roosevelt Leadership Center at Val-Kill. Prior to that, she was a field supervisor for Organic Matters, gardening and landscaping company in Poughkeepsie, and field operations manager for American Conservation Experience. Ms. DiMuro’s corporate experience also includes the renowned public relations firm, Rubenstein Associates, Inc. in New York City. She graduated from John Jay Senior High School in Hopewell Junction, and holds a BA in English Literature from Bryn Mawr College.

For more information about Walkway Over the Hudson visit www.walkway.org.

Hill

Walden Savings Bank appoints Vanessa Hill as Cornwall branch manager

MONTGOMERY (April 1) – Walden Savings Bank recently announced the hire of Vanessa Hill as Branch Manager at its Cornwall location. In this position Hill will provide oversight for the branch’s overall operations, business development, product sales and customer service.

Hill brings to Walden Savings Bank more than 15 years of experience at financial institutions. Most recently she held the position of Teller Supervisor at First Niagara Bank in Nanuet, where she was responsible for developing and training her team to achieve both referral and sales goals. Hill has also held senior management positions with HSBC, Key Bank, as well as Chase Bank.

“We’re so pleased to add Vanessa to our team of talented staff at our Cornwall Branch,” said President and CEO, Derrik Wynkoop. “She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in both personal and business banking, and her past leadership roles give us confidence that she will thrive in her new position.”

Hill, a native of the Bronx, attended New York City Technical College in Brooklyn, N.Y. She currently resides in New Windsor in Orange County.

Walden Savings Bank, established in 1872, is a federal chartered mutual savings bank headquartered in Montgomery, New York. With a total of 11 full-service branches serving Orange and Ulster Counties

Chamber Foundation receives grant to benefit Youth Leadership Program

POUGHKEEPSIE (April 1) - The Chamber Foundation, Inc., the non-profit educational organization of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce, has received a grant from Stewart’s Holiday Match Program in support of the Youth Leadership Program.  Stewart’s Shops collected donations from customers in their shops between Thanksgiving and Christmas last year, as they have every holiday season since 1986.  The company then matches each donation dollar-for-dollar.  This year, the chain is awarding $1,347,086 to local organizations within their shops’ communities.  The Chamber Foundation appreciates the generosity of Stewart’s and their customers.

The Stewart’s Holiday Match program will be used to support Youth Leadership, an innovative after-school program designed to develop the leadership and life skills of area high school students.  Youth Leadership offers participants the opportunity to engage in an experience with classmates from various schools while offering a rare opportunity for personal growth, leadership development and career and skill exploration. The Youth Leadership Program is open to any high school student in Dutchess County and applications for the class of 2013-14 are now open. 

The Chamber Foundation, Inc. was established in 2002 to promote education and training programs for area youth and professionals with the goal of enhancing the future of economic growth in the Hudson Valley region. The Foundation's mission is to provide educational opportunities for youth and the workforce, to build and strengthen personal and business capacity, develop leadership skills and foster a commitment to community service. 

For more information about the Youth Leadership Program, or the Chamber Foundation, visit ChamberFDN.org

Joscelyn

Rhinebeck Bank appoints new vice president

POUGHKEEPSIE (March 25) - Riverside Bank announces the appointment of Barbara E. Joscelyn, as Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer.  Ms. Joscelyn has been in the banking industry for over 35 years, with knowledge and banking experience in lending and branch banking operations. Her most recent position was Community Lender at Rhinebeck Bank.

"We are pleased to have Barbara join our commercial lending team," said John Davies, President & CEO of Riverside Bank." Barbara will make a good addition to our already knowledgeable, experienced commercial lending staff.

Ms. Joscelyn has a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and is a Graduate of the Ulster Leadership Development Institute.  She is Assistant Treasurer and Council Member of the Redeemer Lutheran Church in Kingston, Past Advisory Board Member of the New York Conservatory for the Arts and the Woodstock Playhouse and Past Treasurer of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Ulster County and the Kingston High School Band Boosters.

Barbara resides in Ulster Park, NY.

Chazen names Richard Futyma as environmental scientist

POUGHKEEPSIE (March 21) – The Chazen Companies announces the appointment of Richard Futyma, PhD, as an environmental scientist

Futyma joins Chazen with over 20 years of experience in delineating wetlands, performing ecological site assessments and identifying threatened and endangered species and their habitats. At Chazen, Futyma will work with the Natural Resource Services Group and provide environmental planning services.

“We are very pleased to welcome Richard to our team,” said Mark Kastner, President of The Chazen Companies. “We are confident that his educational background and extensive experience in environmental impact will prove invaluable in helping Chazen to continue our mission of developing innovative and environmentally sustainable solutions for our clients.”

Futyma received his PhD and his master of science in botany from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor and his bachelor of the arts in biology from the State University of New York at Buffalo.

Founded over 65 years ago, The Chazen Companies is a full-service firm offering engineering, land surveying, environmental, planning, and landscape architecture services.  Visit chazencompanies.com.

SUNY New Paltz School of Business recognizes exemplary faculty and staff

NEW PALTZ (March 21) - The School of Business at the State University of New York at New Paltz announces the 2013 recipients of its service, teaching, and research awards.

More details on our Educaton Page

Roverto

Hometown Bank President Rovereto takes helm as CEO

WALDEN (March 20) - Hometown Bank of the Hudson Valley Board Chairman Steven Howell announced that bank president Marjorie S. Rovereto began serving as Chief Executive Officer at the start of 2013 following the retirement of CEO Thomas F. Gibney at the end of the year.

Ms. Rovereto was named bank president in August 2012. Prior to joining Hometown Bank, she served as president and CEO of Ulster Savings Bank.  

"Marjorie hit the ground running when she joined Hometown Bank as president last summer," said Chairman Howell. "She raised the bank's community profile, increased recognition for our new name, and re-affirmed our commitment of service to our customers and community. Marjorie is an accomplished community banking executive”

Rovereto, who has more than 25 years of community banking experience, began her career as a loan officer and worked her way through the ranks to become president and CEO of Ulster Savings Bank, headquartered in Kingston.

"I'm grateful for the warm welcome I received when I joined the Hometown team," said Rovereto. "I'm fortunate to follow in the footsteps of CEO Thomas Gibney and truly appreciate the insight and mentoring he provided as we made this transition together.  I look forward to my expanded role and continuing to serve and become more involved with the Hometown Bank community."

Rovereto, a resident of Kingston, earned her Bachelor of Science in Finance and Management from The State University of New York at Albany. She is a graduate of the National School of Finance and Management at Fairfield University and has taken courses in Accounting, Management and Business Law at Union College.

Hometown Bank of the Hudson Valley, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hometown Bancorp Inc., headquartered in Walden maintains six full-service branches including Walden, Montgomery, Otisville, Newburgh, and two offices located in Monroe, New York. Visit www.hometownbankhv.com.

Mehl and Vance (contributed photo)

Florist advocates to Congress for green changes and US grown

NEW WINDSOR (March 20) – Local green business advocate and owner of Good Old Days Eco-Florist Lynn Mehl traveled this past week to Washington DC lobbying on behalf of greener florist practices & products and US grown flowers. Ms. Mehl took her direction from former lobbyist and DC insider Stephanie Vance of Advocacy Associates, LLC who says, “Citizen advocates are increasingly important voices in Washington as they do appreciate that you took the time to travel to DC to state your views, and they listen”.

At the recent Presidential Inaugural parties, green and American sourced was paramount from the massive recycling to Mrs. Obama choosing American designed clothing for the family, and Senator Schumer (NY) dictating the local foods served. However, one aspect was unknowingly overlooked; the decorations were created with imported flowers, goods, and foams.

“Mrs. Obama’s stance on everything local was overlooked concerning the White House décor, which prompted me that this was the time to start advocating awareness in Washington”, Mehl said.  “Unknown by Mrs. Obama, florists and consumers alike, is unfortunately the floral industry has been taken over by imported flowers, and engulfed in widespread chemical use and toxic floral foams. Very little of any florist offerings is any longer natural, human safe, or earth friendly; much less biodegradable. It has taken me 8 years of research to transform my business to green certified, locate US farms, and find eco friendly substitutes; and I want to share it with everyone from consumer to Congress, with the very first using American grown flowers in the White House.”

Over 85% of all flowers sold in the United States are now imported from large foreign farms; grown in far away countries with vague to no chemical, environmental, social, or wage regulations. Recent legislation has further granted duty free status to Columbian flowers, the largest supplier to the US market with a devastating effect on the American farms left to compete.

The difference between local/ US flowers and imported is night and day, as they are of a superior quality, freshly cut and shipped overnight without the 7-10 day Customs delay thus lasting twice as long, and without threat of invasive insects and diseases or the high chemical residue", Mehl said. "These threats are costing us even more with present funding for their control”

Mehl was awarded Green Business of the Year and has initiated a Recycle Rewards Program, created Flowers For A Cause and Community Fundraising plans, and donates a percentage of sales back to environmental and wildlife foundations.

For further information on green and sustainable floristry visit www.goodolddaysflorist.com

New officers for the Harness Racing Museum

GOSHEN (March 10) - The Board of Trustees of the Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame, located in Goshen, met during the Harness Racing Congress in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, to discuss filling executive committee vacancies left by the passing of John Cashman, Jr. and Paul Spears.

The Board unanimously supported the Executive Committee’s recommendation to appoint Lawrence DeVan as First Vice President and Assistant Treasurer, and Max Hempt as Second Vice President. The appointments will be ratified formally at the Annual Meeting of trustees in July 2013.

The Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame, at 240 Main Street, Goshen, NY, is open daily. There is no charge for regular admission, thanks to the members of the U.S. Trotting Association. For further information on the Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame, the July Hall of Fame induction ceremony, the Museum’s services to the sport and the local community, please call (845) 294-6330 or visit www.harnessmuseum.com.

Maser Consulting provides new energy service line

Newburgh (March 10) - Maser Consulting P.A., a leading multi-disciplinary engineering firm with offices in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions is pleased to announce that it has recently launched a new product line in Energy services. Steven J. DeCarlo, former Senior Vice President with the New York Power Authority, has been hired to oversee the Energy Service interest for the firm.

“Steve is a highly effective team leader with 27 years of experience”, stated Richard M. Maser, President & CEO of Maser Consulting. “I have confidence that he will fully develop this service for the firm as part of our continued expansion and diversification initiative.”

Mr. DeCarlo’s vast expertise in the Energy field extends to company representation in public, professional, government, and regulatory agency matters. This new service will be based in the firm’s Albany New York offices and will utilize specialized in-house staff, toward exploration opportunities in the Energy sector, such as developing techniques to enhance grid resiliency.

Maser Consulting maintains a unique balance of public and private sector experience and offers a comprehensive suite of 15 core disciplines with an expert staff of licensed engineers, planners, surveyors, landscape architects, and environmental scientists. Currently, Maser Consulting employs an average of 360 professionals throughout a network of 15 offices.

Visit www.maserconsulting.com

Cornwall-on-Hudson RiverFest set for June 1, vendors invited

CORNWALL-ON-HUDSON (March 10) The Village of Cornwall-on-Hudson will host its 16th annual RiverFest, Saturday, June 1, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.  RiverFest 2013 will be held at Donahue Park on the shores of the beautiful Hudson River and will feature a full day of music and entertainment, children’s activities, and a large craft and food fair.  The day’s events will include live bands, river activities, food stands, and non-profit groups and contributors. 

RiverFest will accept vendor applications until May 15.  Log on to www.river-fest.com for up to date information.

NYSEG and RG&E launch online rewards program for residential customers who slash energy use

ROCHESTER (March 6) – NYSEG and RG&E, subsidiaries of Iberdrola USA, have launched a free online energy efficiency program for residential customers. Energy Saver provides personalized energy-saving recommendations and rewards NYSEG and RG&E customers with points based on how much energy they save. The points can be redeemed for discounts from online retailers.

More information on our Community Page

Tracy Badgley, CPA, joins GKG CPAs & Business Consultants
 
MID-HUDSON (March 5) - GKG CPAs has hired Tracy L. Badgley, CPA, as partner.

Badgley has more than 25 years of experience in both audit and tax strategies for individuals and businesses throughout the Hudson Valley region and around the country. She brings particular expertise to women-owned businesses, management transitions, financial statement preparation and representation before state and federal tax authorities.

A past president and current executive board member of the Mid-Hudson Chapter of the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants, Badgley co-chairs the chapter’s estate planning committee. She is heavily involved in young professional development and recruitment for the accounting profession, and serves on the Cooperation in Education Committee and the Career Opportunities in the Accounting Profession (COAP) Board.

“Tracy has built strong relationships throughout the Hudson Valley with both her clients and the business community in general,” said Don Karlewicz, CPA, managing partner. “Her expert advice and close personal attention has helped her to develop a long list of happy clients over the years. We also expect that Tracy’s experience with mentoring and recruiting young professionals will help us continue to attract the best talent to GKG.” 

“After many rewarding years in the accounting profession, I am thrilled to be joining the high calibre team at GKG,” Badgley said. “It is gratifying to know that I will be working with such talented professionals, many of whom I have known for years as we have collaborated on various boards and service endeavors in the community.  I look forward to the opportunities presented by being part of this dynamic and growing firm.”

Badgley is a graduate of Hofstra University School of Business. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and a member of the Business Advisory Council at the State University of New York at New Paltz where she provides insightful advice to the School of Business.

GKG CPAs provides comprehensive business consulting, tax and financial management services to small- to mid-market businesses, and individuals — with offices in Chestnut Ridge, Newburgh and Poughkeepsie.

For more information, visit www.gkgcpa.com

Port Jervis Business of the Week: JJ Delicatessen

PORT JERVIS (February 27) - The Business of the Week this week is JJ Delicatessen owned by Jerzy & Joanna Marciniak. They have been open since 2003 and are located at 174 Pike Street.

JJ Delicatessen sells international products and cold cuts; ham, turkey, chicken, kielbasa, liverwurst, roast beef, pastrami, cheeses, feta, American, Muenster, cheddar, goat, and natural breads. They also serve hot lunches, stuffed cabbage, soups kielbasa with sauerkraut, hot dogs, knishes, salads, and any kind of sandwiches, tea, coffee, international candies, jams, pierogies, and many other hard to find international items.

They are open Tuesday through Friday 9 am to 6 pm, Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Sunday from 9 am to 1 pm. The method of payment that is accepted is cash only.

For more information about this business; services or products offered, stop by 174 Pike St. or call (845) 858-1142. To submit an application to be considered for “The Business of the Week” please visit www.portjervisny.org and the ‘Business of the Week’ tab on the left side to obtain an application, or contact Mayor Russell Potter’s Office at (845)858-4017.

(contributed photo)

HGAR holds breakfast meeting with Hudson Valley business leaders

WHITE PLAINS (February 27) - The Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors recently hosted a breakfast meeting for its Commercial & Investment Division.  Guest speakers included Dr. Marsha Gordon of the Business Council of Westchester and Al Samuels of the Rockland Business Association.   The topic was new business developments in the lower Hudson Valley.

The Hudson Gateway Association of REALTORS® (HGAR) is a not-for-profit trade association covering over 9,000 real estate professionals doing business in Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, and Orange counties.   HGAR is comprised of the former Westchester Putnam Association of REALTORS® (WPAR), Rockland County Board of REALTORS® (RCBR) and Orange County Association of REALTORS® (OCAR). 

L-R: John Barrett, President, HGAR’s Commercial & Investment Division (CID); Dr. Marsha Gordon, President, Business Council of Westchester; Al Samuels, President, Rockland Business Association;  Katheryn DeClerck, President HGAR; and Richard Haggerty, CEO, HGAR

Williams

HVFCU names new Hollowbrook Branch Manager

POUGHKEEPSIE (February 27) – Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union (HVFCU) announced that Robyn Williams has joined their team as Branch Manager of HVFCU’s Hollowbrook Branch in Wappingers Falls. In this role, Ms. Williams will oversee all day-to-day activities at the branch, as well as work with commercial accounts in the surrounding area. She reports to Sarah Gillespie, Area Retail Manager for HVFCU.

Ms. Williams joins HVFCU after more than 20 years of financial experience with local banks, including her most recent position as a Vice President/Branch Manager for Rhinebeck Bank. She holds a Bachelors of Business Administration from SUNY New Paltz and earned her MBA from Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh.

HVFCU is a full service, not-for-profit financial cooperative for individuals and businesses, offering real estate and consumer loans, a wide variety of savings and transactional accounts, investment services, estate planning, and trust services. Property and casualty insurance is also available through the HVFCU Insurance Agency.

With more than $3.7 billion in assets, HVFCU serves its 267,000+ members through branches in Dutchess, Orange, Ulster, and Putnam Counties, a nationwide network of 77,000 surcharge-free ATMs, Internet banking, online bill payment, and 24-hour account access by telephone.  HVFCU is federally insured by the NCUA and is an Equal Housing Lender. For more information, visit hvfcu.org.

McCausland

Orange County Trust names senior vice president and chief strategy officer

MIDDLETOWN (February 27) - The Board of Directors of Orange County Trust Company has promoted Timothy McCausland to senior vice president and chief strategy officer. Mr. McCausland will spearhead the planning and implementation of the bank’s short and long term strategic initiatives. 

McCausland will partner closely with Bank President & CEO, Terry Saturno, to identify growth opportunities, including new business ventures.

“Tim has contributed a great deal to Orange County Trust Company’s overall planning and successful performance in recent years”, said Saturno.  “With Tim’s innovative ideas and unique skill set, he will be a huge asset in helping to shape this Bank as we move forward in the changing world of finance, while Orange County Trust remains true to its fundamentals as a local community bank.”

McCausland joined the Bank’s Executive Team as VP and Business Development Strategist in 2010 to oversee corporate development initiatives.  Prior to joining Orange County Trust Company, Mr. McCausland was the President of the Sullivan County Partnership for Economic Development.  Tim is a licensed attorney and spent many years in private practice, later joining the Garigliano Law Offices in Monticello, NY as Senior Attorney.  His law experience encompasses commercial, finance, corporate, and trust matters.

Mr. McCausland currently serves as the Vice President of Development for the Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan Counties and has served on the Board of the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce and the Hudson Valley Economic Development Corp.

Orange County Trust Company is a community bank, serving the financial needs of Orange County for 120 years.  It currently operates 9 branch locations in Middletown, Montgomery, Vails Gate, Chester, Goshen, Newburgh, and Fishkill.    

Sponsors support Orange County Chamber of Commerce Buy Local Showcase

MONTGOMERY (February 27) - More than a dozen local businesses have signed up as sponsors for the Orange County Chamber of Commerce’s 15th Annual Buy Local Showcase, to be held Saturday, March 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Galleria at Crystal Run in Middletown. Reservations are also being taken for exhibitors.

The fee for sponsors is $450 and includes display of company banner in the Galleria on March 23, a booth with side rails in a prime location, and inclusion in all publicity. Sponsors to date include: All Access Dental; Captain’s Club Cruises & Tours; Depew Energy; Dolson Avenue Medical; EAP/SCORE; Frontier Communications; Kittatinny Canoes and Ziplines; Massage Envy Spa/European Wax Center; Merrill Lynch; Middletown Community Health Center; Superior Mortgage Co., Inc.; TEG Federal Credit Union; and Visual Concepts by Jeremy Landolfa.

Before March 1, the cost to be an exhibitor is $225. After March 1, it is $250. The fee includes a booth with side rails, skirted table and two chairs. Exhibitors, who must be Chamber members, may share a booth.

For more information, call Roseann at the Chamber at 845-457-9700, e-mail roseannb@orangeny.com or visit www.orangeny.com.

Golding

First Niagara names John Golding regional banking director for Tri-State region

BUFFALO, (February 25) - First Niagara Financial Group announced that it has named John Golding Retail Banking Director for a newly-created Tri-State region based in Nyack, NY.  Golding will provide leadership to First Niagara’s branch network covering Southern Connecticut and downstate New York, and support the company’s loan production efforts in New Jersey.

“John has shown tremendous leadership ability throughout his career,” said Scott Fisher, First Niagara Managing Director of Retail Banking. “John brings to First Niagara a successful history of financial services leadership in a variety of business lines including retail banking, lending, business banking, finance, mortgage, and IT.  He is a proven leader with an established record of leading high-performing teams and implementing best practices to consistently grow revenue, profitability, and market share. This is a natural fit, and we are thrilled to have John lead our Tri-State branch network.”

Most recently, Golding served as Chief Operating Officer at Nova Bank in Pennsylvania. Prior to that, he served in a variety of leadership roles at Wachovia Bank.

Prior to starting his banking career, Golding owned his own business for 11 years.  Golding is a graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan College where he graduated with a BS in Business Administration.

In the Hudson Valley, First Niagara has 26 branches from Ulster to Westchester Counties

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L-R: Yassky, Sandra Grannum, DiTullo

REDC announces new board chair

PEARL RIVER (February 25) - At a recent REDC Board of Directors meeting, outgoing Chairman, Steven Yassky, officially welcomed, and handed over the reins, to incoming Chair, Sandra D. Grannum, Esq.
  
Managing Partner of Orangeburg-based Davidson & Grannum, Sandra has been involved in the business community for many years by serving as a director on REDC's board, as well as Chair of the Business Development Committee and an Executive Committee member. With her term effective January 1, Sandra is the first woman to ever hold the Board Chair position.

A graduate of Harvard Law School, Sandra has written and lectured widely on securities law, employment law, ADR and ethical issues. She is a member of the New York and New Jersey bars and is admitted to practice before several Federal Courts and before the United States Supreme Court. In addition, as a litigator and trial lawyer in a variety of complex commercial litigation matters, she has more than 20 years of experience focusing primarily on Securities litigation, Employment ligation, Broker-Dealer litigation, arbitrations and mediations and enforcement matters.

"As outgoing Chairman, I appreciate the participation of our valued board members”, said Yassky.  “Their active involvement allowed us to promote business in Rockland while working to reduce the obstacles of doing business here.  I know Sandra will be an invaluable resource as Chair, and I look forward to working with her as a Vice Chair of the Executive Committee."

Sandra Grannum said, "I am honored to take on the role as REDC Chair. Over the past 20 years, we have seen a dynamic change in Rockland's business climate and I look forward to working with the board and REDC staff to bring a new perspective to the table and expand our opportunities to help attract and retain the businesses we have even further."  

"Sandra brings an extraordinary breadth of knowledge and commitment to the board, its mission and future opportunities, said Michael DiTullo, REDC President & CEO."The Board, staff and I look forward to working closely with her in her new role."  

In addition, REDC announced its 2013 Executive Committee and two new directors including:
Executive Committee: Jack F. Holt, Vice Chair; James B. Tully, Vice Chair/Secretary; Quinton C. Van Wynen, Jr., Treasurer; Steven M. Yassky, Vice Chair; and Michael DiTullo, President and CEO.

Also, the following Committee Chairs will serve on the Executive Committee, including: Stephen Coyle, Audit Committee; William F. Helmer, Governance Committee; Robert E. Seaman, III, Public Policy Committee. Mr. Holt and Mr. Tully also hold Committee Chair positions, on the Tactical Response Group and Board Development Committee, respectively. 

Appointed new directors are:

• Kerrin Mahaffey, Site Leader, Pfizer Pearl River. With 20+ years experience in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry, she was recently announced as Site Leader, replacing Chuck Schneider. Kerrin also sits on the boards of Rockland Community College and United Way of Rockland.
• John McAvoy, President & CEO, Orange and Rockland Utilities, Inc. (O&R), replacing William Longhi. Prior to being named President & CEO of O&R, John was Senior Vice President of Central Operations for Consolidated Edison of New York. A Rockefeller Fellow, he also serves on the Board of Trustees of the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum, New Jersey Utilities Association, and the Orange County Partnership.   

Orange County Partnership’s new board members for 2013

GOSHEN (January 22) - Alan Marks has been named Chairman of the Board of the Orange County Partnership. The managing partner of Stanley Marks & Company LLP, Marks most recently served as the vice-chair of the Partnership board. As an Executive Director, he used his background and expertise to oversee the organization’s financial matters.

He has been a member of the Orange County Partnership board for eight years working with fellow directors to support the Partnership’s mission to attract, retain and grow businesses. He has provided those businesses significant support services and educated the community at large on the values and benefits that accrue from sustained economic development.

“Alan’s commitment to economic development and the Orange County Partnership has been immeasurable. His knowledge of the county and the companies doing business here make him the ideal leader for the Partnership at this time,” Maureen Halahan, President & CEO, said in a prepared statement.

Newly named to the Orange County Partnership Board of Directors are:

• Terry R. Saturno, President and CEO of the Orange County Trust Company, is a board member of the New York State Bankers Association and a trustee for the New York State Bankers Retirement System. Saturno also serves as treasurer of the SUNY Orange Foundation and is a member of the Orange Regional Medical Center Board of Directors.
• Robert Kaehler is the President of Perreca Electric Co., Inc. and currently serves as an executive board member for the Construction Contractors Association and is a board member of the Greater Newburgh Partnership.
• Thomas P. Kennedy is the Partner in Charge of the New Windsor office of O’Connor Davies, LLP, Accountants and Consultants, with expertise in healthcare, not-for-profit, commercial and governmental industries. He is a trustee of St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital and serves as a board member for the Orange County Arts Council and the Mid-Hudson Chapter of the NYS Society of CPAs.
• John J. McAvoy is the President and CEO of Orange & Rockland Utilities, Inc. Before joining O & R in January, 2013, McAvoy served as the Senior Vice-President of Central Operations at Consolidated Edison of New York, O & R’s sister company.
• Robert S. Ross is the President and CEO of St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital. Responsible for the management of a 392-bed, two-hospital health system affiliated with Mount Sinai
• Hospital, Ross has served in a leadership role since 2001. Prior to joining St. Luke’s Cornwall administration, Ross held the position of Senior Director, Administration at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center in Baltimore.
• Douglas Sansted is the Chief Legal Officer for Crystal Run Healthcare. In his executive role, Sansted leads the coordination of all legal services for the practice including compliance of policies and regulations and serves as a strategic advisor to the practices’ executive leadership team. Prior to joining Crystal Run, Sansted was Associate General Counsel at the Archdiocese of New York.

DeClerck and Wooley sworn in to their new positions

New presidents installed at Hudson Gateway Association of REALTORS©

WHITE PLAINS (January 22) - Katheryn DeClerck, Associate Broker with Better Homes and Gardens Rand in Warwick, will serve as the 2013 President of the Hudson Gateway Association of REALTORS (HGAR), while Russ Woolley, owner and principal broker of Wright Bros. Real Estate in Nyack, will be the President of the Hudson Gateway Multiple Listing Service. (HGMLS).

DeClerck succeeds Nancy Kennedy of Houlihan Lawrence in Croton, the 2012 HGAR President, and Woolley takes over the reins from Gary Leogrande of Keller Williams in White Plains, the 2012 HGMLS President.  Kennedy and Leogrande will remain on the Executive Committees of HGAR and HGMLS respectively.

DeClerck, of Goshen, is currently a Director with the New York State Association of REALTORS  and has chaired NYSAR’s Communications and Public Relations Committees.  She has served on NYSAR’s Grievance Committee, was a Director with the former Orange County Association of REALTORS for five years, and chaired its Diversity Committee.   In 2011, she was named OCAR’s “Realtor of the Year”. 

Woolley, of Upper Nyack, has been in the real estate business for 34 years.  He has served as president of the former Rockland County Board of REALTORS® (RCBR) and has been the owner and principal broker of Wright Bros. Real Estate for the past 11 years. Woolley is a Charter Member of the Congers/Valley Cottage Rotary Club and Chairman of the Church Council of the New City United Methodist Church.  He also serves on the Committee of Church & Society, which is involved with social concerns. 
Treasurer.

The Hudson Gateway Association of REALTORS  is a not-for-profit trade association covering over 9,000 real estate professionals doing business in Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, and Orange counties.  

REALTORS is a registered trademark.

Hudson Valley students Share $45,000 Construction Labor-Management scholarships

TARRYTOWN (January 22) – Construction Industry Council of Westchester & Hudson Valley, Inc., representing more than 500 local construction and building industry firms working throughout the Hudson Valley region of New York State, announced the distribution of $45,000 in grants to college students across Westchester and the Lower Hudson Valley for the 2012 Fall Semester.

More details on our Education Page

SUNY,  Research Foundation for SUNY, announce Entrepreneur-In- Residence Program  

ALBANY (January 16) - The State University of New York and The Research Foundation for The State University of New York (RF) today announced the creation of the SUNY Entrepreneur-In-Residence Program (EIR), which will support campuses and SUNY Innovation Hubs in securing the time and skills of proven, private-sector entrepreneurs who bring startup experience and expertise that drive discoveries in SUNY’s research portfolio. 

More details on our Education Page

(contributed photo; identities not provided)

Hill-N-Dale abstracters, Inc. acquires Hardenburgh Abstract Company

GOSHEN (January 14) - John Wood of Montgomery, New York, president of Hill-N-Dale Abstracters, Inc. headquartered at 20 Scotchtown Avenue in Goshen, New York, announced the acquisition of Hardenburgh Abstract Company from Provident Bank effective January 1, 2013.

Founded in 1969, Hardenburgh Abstract Company is a privately held business. It will continue to operate as a separate entity under its new name, Hardenburgh Title Agency. It will remain under the direction of its longtime president, James V. Rinaldi of Campbell Hall, New York at its current location at 12 Scotchtown Avenue.  Both companies have operated since the mid 20th century. Together, they have provided the region with over 100 years of exemplary service.

The purchase, which closely follows the acquisition of Horizon Title Services Corporation in July of 2011,  positions Hill-N-Dale Abstracters as the largest title company serving the Hudson Valley region. Wood believes the company’s adherence to core values of honesty and integrity is largely responsible for its continued growth and expansion.

“We will now hold the files of approximately 85% to 90% of all properties in the region,” remarked Mr. Wood. “With so many files readily available, the process of securing title insurance will be expedited for the vast majority of commercial and residential real estate owners in our immediate four-county area—Orange, Sullivan, Ulster and Dutchess—and beyond.”

Hill-N-Dale Abstracters, Inc. provides clients throughout the Mid-Hudson region with title insurance for commercial as well as residential properties. 

O&R donates $500 to AVI for children’s vision training program

PEARL  RIVER (January 14) - O&R has donated $500 to the Association for the Visually Impaired, Inc.

More details on our Education Page

Accounting firms merge

NEWBURGH (January 9) -  Partners of the Certified Public Accounting firms of Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell, LLP and Levitian, Yegidis & Associates, LLP announce the consolidation of their two firms.  The combined firm will comprise approximately 75 employees in four locations throughout Dutchess, Orange and Westchester counties. 

“We are delighted and enthused that our partners have seen and supported the strategic value of this combination” states Thomas Weddell, Managing Partner.  “We believe that the combined firm’s value to our clients will be unsurpassed in the profession.”

The combined firm has offices in Newburgh, Middletown, Wappingers Falls and Tarrytown.

The consolidation enhances the existing strengths of both firms in such areas as accounting and auditing, tax services, consulting and special projects, accounting support services, computer consulting in the construction, governmental, hospitality, manufacturing, non-profit, veterinary and wholesale, retail distribution markets.

Goins

Goins promoted at Riverside Bank

POUGHKEEPSIE (January 7)  - Riverside Bank announces the promotion of Clarissa M. Goins to Compliance Officer and Assistant Treasurer.  

Ms. Goins was hired at Riverside Bank in November of 2007 as our Staff Auditor. Clarissa has over 18 years of experience in the banking industry. In her new position, she will be responsible for ensuring that the Bank comply with federal and state regulations, implementing new regulations, updating regulatory compliance policies and procedures, performing self-assessments and interfacing with regulatory examiners.

“Clarissa has proven to be a good addition to our Riverside Banking team.” said John Davies, President & CEO of Riverside Bank. “With her Staff Auditor experience and knowledge in our Bank’s operations, I am certain that she will excel in her new position as Compliance Officer.” Ms. Goins graduated in 1994 from SUNY College at New Paltz with a B.S. in Business with a concentration in Finance. In December of 2007, she received her M.B.A. in Management from Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh.  She is currently an online student at Walden University.

Clarissa also gives back to her community.  She has been a Loaned Executive for the United Way since July of 2011.  She is a Sunday School Teacher at the Beulah Baptist Church in Poughkeepsie, a member of the Poughkeepsie Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and a board member of the Hyde Park PTA. 

Clarissa has 2 children and resides in Poughkeepsie, with her husband, Howard.

Perri

Gerard Perri joins Orange County Trust Company as senior VP and CFO

MIDDLETOWN (January 7) - Orange County Trust Company announced Gerard A. Perri has joined the bank as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Gerard will oversee all aspects of the Accounting Department and will head the Asset and Liability Management Committee.  

Throughout Perri's 35-year financial career, he has been integrally involved in the accounting, financial planning, compliance, and information systems functions of public and private community banks. Previously, Gerard was Chief Financial Officer of Herald National Bank where he directed all accounting, finance, treasury, and compliance responsibilities of the Bank. Prior to joining Herald National, he served as Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Metropolitan National Bank.
 
“Gerard’s extensive financial and management experience will be invaluable as the Bank continues to grow and prosper.  His background and commitment to the principles of community banking are a good fit for Orange County Trust Company. We are pleased to have Gerard join our senior management team”, said Terry Saturno, President & CEO.

Perri received his undergraduate degree from City University of New York and his Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Adelphi University. He is a graduate of the National School of Banking at Fairfield University and is a member of the Financial Managers Society and the Institute of Management Accountants.

Women’s Council collects toys for tots at holiday gala & installation dinner

POUGHKEEPSIE (January 7) - The Women’s Council of Realtors Dutchess County Chapter installed its officers for 2013 and collected unwrapped toys for ‘Toys for Tots’ at its Holiday Gala at the Grandview in Poughkeepsie, NY.  

There were over 100 real estate industry professionals in attendance to witness the installation of Dawne Salamone as the 2013 President; Nancy Martinelli and Melissa Pettinella as Co- President-Elect for 2014; Nancy Keller as vice-President of Membership, Barbara Novak as Secretary and Rita White as Treasurer.

The events sponsors included Arnoff Moving and Storage, First Call Restorations, Homestead Funding Corp., Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union, Kallman Insurance, Mid-Hudson Multiple Listing Service LLC and North River Abstract.

L-R: Dawne Salamone, Nancy Martinelli, Melissa Pettinella, Nancy Keller, Barbara Novak, Rita White (contributed photo)

Linda Leo joins Ryan & Ryan Insurance Brokers

KINGSTON (January 7) - Linda M. Leo has joined Ryan & Ryan Insurance Brokers, Inc. as an associate with responsibilities for servicing commercial and personal insurance as well as supporting the firm's business development initiatives. Leo began her career in 1977 at the Corwin Agency a firm New Paltz, N.Y., a firm owned by Frank Reis and the father of Robert J. Ryan, the founder and CEO of Ryan & Ryan.

She interrupted her career in 1990 to devote time to her children, returned to the industry in 2003 and became a New York State licensed property and casualty insurance broker in 2006.

Ryan & Ryan offers a full line of property and casualty insurance, including auto and homeowners insurance, as well as commercial and life insurance with a focus on individually-owned small and medium-sized businesses as well as individuals.

Dr. Kumar Ramaswamy appointed chief technology officer at Iviewit Holdings

ARMONK (December 28) - Iviewit Holdings, Inc. announces the appointment of Dr. Kumar Ramaswamy as Interim Chief Technology Officer subject to approval by the Board of Directors.  Dr. Ramaswamy is a senior technology executive with experience spanning telecom, broadcast and media industries with over seventeen years in the industry. Presently, Dr. Ramaswamy is President of igolgi, a provider of innovative, flexible video compression solutions.

Prior to igolgi, he held senior management positions at Thomson Inc., including Head of Research and Chief Technology Officer of the $4 Billion Systems Division which included head end products from Grass Valley USA LLC and all home client solutions including set top boxes, modems and gateways.

Dr. Ramaswamy holds 69 U.S. patents and over 80 pending applications. He has been awarded the Outstanding Young Electrical Engineer Award by the IEEE-HKN Society in 2000. He sits on the Advisory Boards of Novelsat, a satellite communications technology provider, Eyeugo, a startup developing products and services targeting senior citizens, VirtualWire Technologies, a wireless startup, and is Adjunct Faculty at Rutgers University. He has a Ph.D. from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Electrical and Systems Engineering, M.S. (Mathematics) from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, M.S. in Electrical Engineering from Vanderbilt, and B.E. from National Institute of Technology, Trichy, India.

Ellenbogen

Orange County Business Accelerator signs Ellenbogen Creative Media

NEW WINDSOR (December 9) – Orange County Business Accelerator (OCBA) recently introduced Ellenbogen Creative Media as its newest associate client.
                                                            
Ellenbogen is a digital creative company that helps brands, organizations and institutions produce marketing, promotional or internal video content and deliver it across any platform from desktop to mobile, broadcast to broadband.    

“Ellenbogen Creative Media provides valuable expertise in the digital media world. Many of the organizations in the Hudson Valley, as well as the Accelerator, could utilize their services to market and grow their businesses”, Mike Oates, managing director at the Accelerator, said.

Jeremy N. Ellenbogen, president and CEO of Ellenbogen Creative Media, is an expert in the digital and media broadcast fields. He has over 18 years of experience in content strategy, creation and deployment, and he has built a client base that includes regional, national and international organizations across many different industries.

“I am looking forward to my team working in our new studio in Orange County,” Ellenbogen said. “This operation will give us greater reach to our growing list of clients in Orange and provide more flexibility as we offer more quick-turnaround video services that will help our clients expand their visibility in the marketplace.”
                         
Ellenbogen will set up a studio and facilities within the Accelerator to complement the services it offers from its main office at Seven21 Media Center, 721 Broadway, Suite 100, Kingston, NY. For more information, visit www.ellenbogenmedia.com

Orange County Business Accelerator located at 4 Crotty Lane in New Windsor, at New York International Plaza at Stewart Airport, is a business incubator program launched by the Orange County Industrial Development Agency (IDA) in partnership with Orange County Government.