Introducing the New Newsline

May 2018

We are the leading voice of business in the region providing advocacy, resources and solutions for our members. Newsline Introducing the new Newsline

Hello and Welcome to the For those businesses who that offers agricultural expe- first “new” issue of Newsline, don’t know who we are, we riences for our region’s stu- the Fulton Montgomery are going to take some space in dents), and other projects with- Regional Chamber of every issue to give you some in our region’s school districts. Commerce’s monthly news- information about what we • Tourism News which letter. For our Chamber mem- do for our businesses and for covers both Fulton and bers, we hope you like this the region. For those Chamber Montgomery Counties – new new format and the opportuni- members who already know programs, new events, what’s ties that come with the publi- us, please let this serve as a happening in the industry, cation’s new circulation base. refresher as to all the benefits and more. Not only is this newsletter sent that are afforded your business • Chamber Events outlines to every Chamber member, as a result of your investment what Chamber of Commerce- but we have now expanded its in the Chamber. specific events are taking place reach to include all existing To our members, THANK that month and in the future. businesses in the Fulton and YOU for making an invest- • Chamber Member News Montgomery Counties region. ment in your business, and in – news about Chamber mem- our region, with your Chamber ber businesses that is submitted membership. To our “future” to us each month. If you’re a members, we hope you can Chamber member, why not in-

see the value that our Chamber clude us in your good news and

offers to you, your business we can share it in this newslet-

PAID and our communities. ter, on social media and more. PRSRT STD ALBANY NY

PERMIT #370 From month to month you “Future” members – why not U.S. POSTAGE will see a number of columns join the Chamber and let us from departments within our help you tell your business’ Chamber, including: story in these pages… • An address from our • Benefit Bonus – a quick The Fulton Montgomery Young

President/CEO Mark Kilmer look at individual benefits af- • Information about cur- forded to businesses that are Professionals Network Meet Up rent Advocacy issues – the Chamber members Chamber represents the strong • Health Insurance News The Fulton Montgomery Young Professionals Network (FMYPN) held a Meet Up Event on Wednesday, April 11 voice of businesses in our re- – this column, provided by at Sharpshooters Billiards & Sport Pub, 35 E. Main Street gion in the halls of govern- Bouchey & Clarke Benefits, in Amsterdam. Above, Brian and Brady Barnett (Ehle and ment with our elected officials the Chamber’s health insur- Barnett Family Funeral Home) rack ‘em up. on local, regional, state and ance partner, will address see page 18 for more photos from the event. federal levels health insurance and human • A column about resources issues for businesses (518) 725-0641 or via email at the April and May issues, so our Business Education We hope you enjoy our [email protected]. you will see there are not a lot Partnerships with PTECH new Newsline and its look PLEASE NOTE: Because of photos for events or new in Johnstown (Pathways to at business in the Fulton of the new deadlines for our members because of this. We Technology Early College in Montgomery Counties region! newsletter going forward, will get back “on track” with the High School), AgPTECH Questions? Comments? there were only two weeks the June issue. Thank you for in St. Johnsville (our PTECH Please contact the Chamber at in between preparing content your patience! 2 Newsline May, 2018

Letter from the President

The Fulton Montgomery Regional Chamber is so excit- ed to bring you the first issue of our “new” Newsline. Even more exciting is our new partnership with McClary Media, Newsline is published by the Fulton Montgomery Regional whose staff is selling the advertising opportunities within McClary Media Chamber of Commerce in partnership with / these pages, doing the production work, and coordinating The Recorder the printing of this monthly newsletter. The Chamber will still be providing content about our programs and services, Officers 2018 and about our members and their businesses. Chair of the Board Amy Karas, Ruby & Quiri Most importantly, the Chamber feels that this new Chair Elect Jim Landrio, way of publishing our newsletter will give these mem- Holiday Inn Johnstown-Gloversville bers a new, enhanced way of marketing their businesses. Immediate Past Chair Paul Connelie, By growing the circulation from 1,000 to 3,600, which includes every business in Fulton and Montgomery Counties, Benjamin Moore & Co., Inc. participating in Newsline will give businesses that much Mark Kilmer First Vice Chair Denis Wilson, more exposure for their programs, products and services. President/CEO Fulmont Community Action Agency In this newsletter, you will find information important Treasurer Dr. Irina Gelman, EMVI Chocolate to businesses, details about Chamber events and other programs and services, Chamber Member news, and more. We will still continue to publish it monthly, so watch your mail- Directors 2018 boxes for each issue, which will be published close to the first of each month. Joseph Galea – JAG Manufacturing We will continue to produce our weekly e-newsletter, Chamber Connections, that ap- Juanita Handy, Crum Creek CSA pears in Chamber member e-mailboxes on Mondays. In addition, we communicate our message via our website, www.fultonmontgomeryny.org, our popular Facebook page, in James Jankowski, Jankowski Agency the pages of Focus Fulton Montgomery Region, NY, on Instagram, in our bi-monthly col- Lillian Johnson, HTCP – Healing Touch Practitioner umns in the Leader-Herald and the Recorder, on our monthly radio shows on WVTL and Laurence Kelly, WENT, and more. And don’t forget our great tourism resources for Fulton and Montgomery Nathan Littauer Hospital & Nursing Home Counties, where we show off all there is to do in our region, via our tourism websites, ww- Kevin McClary, The Recorder w.44lakes.com and www.visitmontgomerycounty.com, on Facebook and Twitter. Amy McCray Even with all of these different ways that we tell our story, Newsline continues to be John Mancini, Beacon Insurance Agency Group, Inc. our number one communication resource for our members. How great that we are now Carl Marucci, Kinderhook Bank able to bring our message, and news about our members, to a whole new audience. Dr. Patrick Michel, HFM BOCES Please be patient as both the Chamber and McClary Media work together to produce the best newsletter we can for our business community. This is new to both of our organi- Wes Ostrander, Randall Implements zations, and we hope that this “new” way of publishing Newsline can be beneficial for all. Dr. Dustin Swanger , Fulton-Montgomery Community College Please contact the following resources about the newsletter: Robin Wentworth, Advertising/Production: Brian Krohn, McClary Media, (518) 843-1100, St. Johnsville Rehabilitation & Nursing Center [email protected] Chamber contact: Terry Swierzowski, (518) 725-0641, Staff [email protected]. Mark Kilmer, President/CEO

Tom Casale, Membership Coordinator Becky Dutcher, Financial Administrator/Office Manager Gina DaBiere-Gibbs, Tourism Director Sarah Hafter, Business & Education Partnership Coordinator Tara Ryczek, Tourism Associate Terry Swierzowski, Vice President, Communications and Member Services Nicole Walrath, Director of Workforce Development 2 North Main Street, Gloversville, New York 12078 (518) 725-0641 • fax (518) 725-0643 Fulton Montgomery Regional Chamber of Commerce 1166 Riverfront Center, 2 N. Main Street, Gloversville, NY 12078 Amsterdam, New York 12010 1166 Riverfront Center, Amsterdam, NY 12010 (518) 725-0641 • fax (518) 684-0111 (518) 725-0641 | (518) 725-0643 (fax) www.fultonmontgomeryny.org E-mail: [email protected] Facebook: FMChamberNY | Instagram Website: www.fultonmontgomeryny.org Member of Fulton County Tourism American Chamber of Commerce Executives Association www.44lakes.com | Facebook: Visit Fulton County, NY Business Council of New York State Twitter: @SeeFultonCounty Center For Economic Growth Chamber Alliance of New York State Montgomery County Tourism Fulton County Center for Regional Growth www.visitmontgomerycountyny.com Fulton County Farm Bureau Facebook: Visit Montgomery County NY Montgomery County Farm Bureau New York State Farm Bureau Twitter: @MCNYTourism May, 2018 Newsline 3

U.S. Census Bureau Mails Benefit Corner Economic Census to 4M Businesses in May Energy Alliance Program Can Save (www.census.gov) — The U.S. Census Bureau will mail out Chamber Member Businesses $$ instructions for filling out the 2017 Economic Census to businesses nationwide in early May. Approximately 3.7 million U.S. businesses nationwide, in- Through the combined purchasing power back to you with a price comparison. That is cluding large, medium, and small companies representing all of 13 Chambers of Commerce and thousands when you make your energy decisions. industries will receive information by mail with instructions of their members, the Fulton Montgomery To join this purchasing pool, simply visit to set up an account to complete their economic census online. Regional Chamber of Commerce is able to the Chamber website, www.fultonmontgom- Starting with the 2017 Economic Census, response will be en- offer discounted electrical and natural gas to eryny.org, go to the Membership Menu and tirely paperless. The deadline for response is June 12. its members. you will find the Energy Alliance Energy Every five years, the Census Bureau collects informa- There is no gamble. The gas is guaran- Savings page. There is an easy-to-fill out tion about businesses that are essential to understanding the teed in your pipes and when you flip a switch, form that asks for your business’ your gas American economy. The economic census serves as the most the lights will always go on. The savings are and electric account numbers. You are mere- comprehensive source of data related to business activity and realized on a combination of commodity, ly giving EnergyNext permission to secure serves as the foundation for the measurement of U.S. businesses transportation and sales tax discounts. information about your electric and gas us- and their economic impact. The data businesses provide is com- The Chamber has retained a consultant, age over the last year. The information will piled into official statistics that are available for companies to who does not represent a supplier, to rec- only be used for this program, and will not be use for planning and decision making. ommend actions for this process. This con- shared with anyone. Again, you are not com- The Economic Census asks for the following information sultant, EnergyNext of Saratoga Springs, mitting to anything. by location: a fellow Chamber member, and its Energy Once the price is right, EnergyNext will Alliance program, examines the markets on contact you for a decision. § Employer Identification Number a daily basis to determine the timing of the Please fax the form to EnergyNext at § Physical location § Primary business activity best deals. (518) 580-9243 or call them at (518) 580- § Sales, receipts, or revenue This program frees you up from worry- 9244 should you have any questions or need § Employment and payroll ing about utility costs and puts an expert on further information. Joanne Foresta is our § Industry-specific questions pricing on your staff at no charge to you. You Chamber’s representative at EnergyNext. make the final decision, but EnergyNext does You can always contact your Chamber for For more information for those businesses who are asked to all the research at no charge. more information at (518) 725-0641 or via respond, please reference the U.S. Census Bureau website at www. EnergyNext, when appropriate, will come email at [email protected]. census.gov/programs-surveys/economic-census/information.html. 4 Newsline May, 2018 Health Insurance News Federal vs. New York Family & Medical Leave Laws

Provided by or more employees in at least 20 Paid family leave (effective an average of 20 or more hours spouse, child, parent or next of kin weeks of the current or preceding Jan. 1, 2018): All employers. Paid per week. Excludes independent who is a covered service member year. family coverage will typically be contractors. with a serious injury or illness. Public agencies, including added to the employer’s existing Military spouse leave: However, leave for birth, state, local and federal employers. disability insurance policy. Employees who work an average adoption, foster care, care for a Local education agencies of 20 or more hours per week parent with a serious health condi- covered under special provisions. Employees Eligible and who are the spouse of a tion or care for a covered service State Elements Federal Elements member of the U.S. Armed member with a serious injury or In addition to the federal Worked for employer for at Forces, National Guard or illness must be shared by spouses Bouchey & Clarke FMLA, New York has leave laws least 12 months (which need not Reserves who has been deployed working for same employer. Benefits is the Chamber’s regarding (1) pregnancy leave, (2) be consecutive); worked at least during a period of military con- State Elements partner in health insurance. adoptive parents leave, (3) blood 1,250 hours for employer during flict to a combat theater or com- Pregnancy leave: For more information about donation leave, (4) bone mar- 12 months preceding leave; and bat zone of operations. Excludes Employers cannot discriminate Bouchey & Clarke and their row donation leave, (5) military employed at a worksite with 50 independent contractors. on the basis of sex and must treat health insurance offerings spouse leave and (6) paid family or more employees within 75 Paid family leave (effective disability arising from pregnan- and programs please con- leave (effective Jan. 1, 2018). miles of worksite. Jan. 1, 2018): An employee who cy in the same manner as other Pregnancy leave: tact them at (518) 720- State Elements works 20 hours or more per week disabilities. Employers with four or more Adoptive parents leave: 8888 or visit them online at Pregnancy leave: Pregnant is eligible for paid family leave employees. Employers that permit employ- www.boucheyclarke.com employees. benefits if the employee works for Adoptive parents leave: ees to take leaves of absence This comparison chart is Adoptive parents leave: a covered employer for 26 or more All employers. upon the birth of a child must Employees who are adoptive consecutive weeks. A part-time provided for general informa- Blood donation leave: permit an adoptive parent, parents following the commence- employee (an employee who works tional purposes only. It is not Employers with at least 20 following commencement of ment of the parent-child relation- fewer than 20 hours per week) is intended to be exhaustive nor parent-child relationship, the employees at one or more ship (unless the child has reached eligible for paid family leave after should any discussion or opin- same leave upon the same terms worksites. school age or, in the case of a he or she has worked for a covered ions be construed as legal advice. (unless the child has reached Bone marrow donation hard-to-place or handicapped employer for 175 days. Readers should contact legal leave: Employers with at least child, has reached age 18). school age or, in the case of a counsel for legal advice. ©2009- hard-to-place or handicapped 20 employees at one or more Blood donation leave: Leave Amount 2012, 2015-2017 Zywave, Inc. worksites. Employees who work an average child, has reached age 18). Federal Elements Blood donation leave: All rights reserved. EM 8/17 Military spouse leave: of 20 or more hours per week. At Generally, up to a total of 12 the employer’s option, either: Employers covered Employers with at least 20 Excludes independent contractors. weeks during a 12-month period. • Three hours of leave in any Federal Elements employees at one or more Bone marrow donation Up to 26 weeks during a 12-month period for an employ- Private employers with 50 worksites. leave: Employees who work single 12-month period to care for ee to donate blood; or • Blood donation during Office Supplies, Furniture, work hours, without use of accu- SerafinSerafin BrothersBrothers mulated leave time, at least two Copiers, Printers, Packaging, Contracting times per year at a convenient Contracting time and place set by the employ- Janitorial & Food && WildlifeWildlife ControlControl er, including allowing the employee to participate in a blood Service Supplies drive at the employer’s site. Family owned and operated. Bone marrow donation Free next day delivery at leave: The total length of each VERY COMPETITIVE prices! leave is determined by the employee’s physician, but may not exceed 24 work hours for each bone marrow donation, unless the employer agrees otherwise. There is no limit to how fre- Provides Interior & Exterior remodeling quently an employee may take bone marrow donation leave. Camps, Homes, Garages, Porches, Property Military spouse leave: Up Drainage, Jacking, Leveling, Pier work to 10 days of leave. Paid family leave (effective

Authorized Jan. 1, 2018): Paid family leave Channel Partner benefits will be phased in over a Safely remove nuisance wildlife without poison: four-year period. In 2018, eligible employees may receive up to Seely Conover’s Mice, Moles, Rats, Bats, Squirrel, Skunk, eight weeks of paid family leave Woodchuck, Beaver, Raccoon, Opossum, Fox, at 50 percent of their average weekly wages. When fully imple- Coyote. mented in 2021, eligible employ- Office Centre Inc. ees may receive up to 12 weeks Serving the Fulton/Montgomery of paid family leave at 67 percent area since 1879 of their average weekly wages. 333 West Main Street Type of Leave Amsterdam, NY 12010 Federal Elements Phone 842-1720 Unpaid leave for: Fax 842-5643 See Health, www.seelyconover.com on page 5 May, 2018 Newsline 5 Health Insurance News

parent-child relationship, the disabilities. Health, continued from page 4 same leave upon the same terms Adoptive parents leave: (unless the child has reached Employers that permit employees • Birth of employee’s new- • To bond with the employ- injury or illness incurred by the school age or, in the case of a to take leaves of absence upon born child; ee’s child during the first 12 member in the line of duty on ac- hard-to-place or handicapped the birth of a child must permit an • Placement of child with months after the child’s birth, or tive duty in the Armed Forces (or child, has reached age 18). adoptive parent, following com- employee for adoption or foster after the placement of the child which existed before the begin- Blood donation leave: No mencement of parent-child rela- care; for adoption or foster care with ning of active duty and was aggra- provision tionship, the same leave upon the • Providing care for employ- the employee; or vated by service in the line of duty Bone marrow donation same terms (unless the child has ee’s parent, child or spouse with • For any qualifying exigen- on active duty) and that manifest- leave: No provision reached school age or, in the case serious health condition; cy as interpreted under the feder- ed itself either before or after the Military spouse leave: No of a hard-to-place or handicapped • Employee’s own serious al FMLA arising out of the fact member became a veteran. provision child, has reached age 18). health condition; that the spouse, domestic partner, State Elements Paid family leave (effective Blood donation leave: No • Any qualifying exigency child or parent of the employee Paid family leave (effective Jan. 1, 2018): Paid family leave provision when employee’s spouse, child or is on active duty (or has been Jan. 1, 2018): Serious health con- benefits may be received on an Bone marrow donation parent is on active duty or is noti- notified of an impending call or dition means an illness, injury, im- intermittent basis (less than a full leave: No provision fied of impending call or order to order to active duty) in the U.S. pairment, or physical or mental con- workweek), in increments of one Military spouse leave: No active duty in Armed Forces; or Armed Forces. dition that involves inpatient care full day (that is, one-fifth of the provision • Caring for a spouse, child, Paid family leave benefits in a hospital, hospice or residential weekly benefit). Paid family leave (effective parent or next of kin who is a will be funded through employee health care facility, continuing treat- Jan. 1, 2018): An employee who covered service member with a paycheck deductions. Employers ment or continuing supervision by a Substitution of Paid Leave takes paid family leave must be serious injury or illness. are not responsible for contrib- health care provider. Federal Elements reinstated to his or her original State Elements uting to or funding paid family Employees may elect, or em- position upon return to work, Pregnancy leave: leave benefits, but may choose to Health Care Provider ployers may require, accrued paid or reinstated to a comparable Employers cannot discriminate do so. Employers may begin col- Federal Elements leave to be substituted in some position with equal pay, benefits, on the basis of sex and must treat lecting employee contributions Doctors of medicine or cases. Employee must follow and other terms and conditions disability arising from pregnan- as of July 1, 2017. osteopathy authorized to practice terms and conditions of employ- of employment. cy in the same manner as other medicine or surgery; podiatrists, er’s normal paid leave policies. disabilities. New York has a Serious Health Condition/ dentists, clinical psychologists, State Elements Key Employee Exception temporary disability insurance Serious Injury or Illness clinical social workers, physi- Pregnancy leave: to Reinstatement Rights program that requires employers Federal Elements cian assistants, optometrists, Employers must treat disability Federal Elements to provide short-term disability Serious Health Condition: chiropractors (limited to manual arising from pregnancy in the Limited exception for sala- insurance for their employ- Illness, injury, impairment, manipulation of spine to correct same manner as other disabili- ried employees if among highest ees. Employers are required to or physical or mental condition subluxation shown to exist by ties. Leave may be paid under paid 10 percent of workforce provide partial wage replace- involving incapacity or treatment x-ray), nurse practitioners, and the temporary disability insur- within 75 miles of worksite, res- ment for up to 26 weeks to connected with inpatient care in nurse-midwives, if authorized ance program. toration would lead to grievous employees who are temporarily hospital, hospice, or residential to practice under state law and Adoptive parents leave: economic harm to employer and unable to work due to disabil- medical-care facility, or continu- consistent with the scope of their Employers that permit employ- other conditions met. ity. Pregnancy is considered a ing treatment by a health care authorization; Christian Science ees to take leaves of absence State Elements disability under the program. provider involving a period of practitioners listed with the First upon the birth of a child must No provision Adoptive parents leave: incapacity due to: Church of Christ, Scientist in permit an adoptive parent, Employers that permit employ- • A health condition lasting Boston, MA; any provider so following commencement of Maintenance of ees to take leaves of absence more than three consecutive full recognized by the employer or parent-child relationship, the Health Benefits During Leave upon the birth of a child must calendar days and involving a its group health plan’s benefits same leave upon the same terms Federal Elements permit an adoptive parent, certain level of treatment; manager; and any health provider (unless the child has reached Health insurance must be following commencement of • A chronic serious health listed above who practices and is school age or, in the case of a continued under same conditions parent-child relationship, the condition or a permanent or authorized to practice in a coun- hard-to-place or handicapped as prior to leave. same leave upon the same terms long-term condition for which try other than the United States. child, has reached age 18). State Elements (unless the child has reached treatment may be ineffective; State Elements Blood donation leave: If the Pregnancy leave: Employers school age or, in the case of a • Absences to receive Paid family leave (effective employer chooses to allow em- cannot discriminate on the basis hard-to-place or handicapped multiple treatments (including Jan. 1, 2018): An individual who ployees to donate blood during of sex and must treat disability child, has reached age 18). recovery periods) for a restor- satisfies the state licensure re- work hours, it must be without arising from pregnancy in the Blood donation leave: At ative surgery or for a condition quirements under the paid family use of accumulated leave time. same manner as other disabilities. the employer’s option, either: that if left untreated likely would leave law. Bone marrow donation Adoptive parents leave: • Unpaid leave to donate result in incapacity of more than leave: No provision Employers that permit employees blood off of the employer’s three days; or Intermittent Leave Military spouse leave: No to take leaves of absence upon premises; or • Any incapacity related to Federal Elements provision the birth of a child must permit an • Blood donation during pregnancy or for prenatal care. Permitted for serious health Paid family leave (effective adoptive parent, following com- work hours without use of any Serious Injury or Illness: condition, for care of covered Jan. 1, 2018): If permitted by mencement of parent-child rela- accumulated leave time or other In the case of a member of service member when medically the employer, employees may tionship, the same leave upon the paid time off. the Armed Forces, including a necessary and for active duty leave. use their paid sick or vacation same terms (unless the child has Bone marrow donation member of the National Guard or Not permitted for care of time in order to receive their full reached school age or, in the case leave: Unpaid leave to undergo Reserves, an injury or illness in- newborn or new placement by salary during a leave. of a hard-to-place or handicapped a medical procedure to donate curred by the member in line of adoption or foster care, unless child, has reached age 18). bone marrow. duty on active duty in the Armed employer agrees. Reinstatement Rights Blood donation leave: No Military spouse leave: Forces (or which existed before State Elements Federal Elements provision Unpaid leave during the time the the beginning of active duty and Pregnancy leave: Must be restored to same Bone marrow donation military member is on leave from was aggravated by service in the Employers must treat disability position or one equivalent to it in leave: No provision deployment. line of duty on active duty) that arising from pregnancy in the all benefits and other terms and Military spouse leave: No Paid family leave (effective may render the member medical- same manner as other disabilities. conditions of employment. provision Jan. 1, 2018): An employee may ly unfit to perform the duties of Adoptive parents leave: State Elements Paid family leave (effec- receive paid family leave bene- the member’s office, grade, rank Employers that permit employ- Pregnancy leave: tive Jan. 1, 2018): Employers fits for the following reasons: or rating. ees to take leaves of absence Employers cannot discriminate • To provide care to a family For a veteran of the Armed upon the birth of a child must on the basis of sex and must treat See Leave, member with a serious health Forces, including a veteran of the permit an adoptive parent, disability arising from pregnan- condition; National Guard or Reserves, an following commencement of cy in the same manner as other on page 6 6 Newsline May, 2018 Health Insurance News

Employer may require certi- York Department of Labor Leave, continued from page 5 fication for the following: has issued guidelines allowing Request for leave because employers to require proof of must maintain group health plan following commencement of tion in an emergency, employers of serious health condition or to off-premises blood donation. benefits for the duration of paid parent-child relationship, the must reasonably accommodate a care for covered service member Bone marrow donation family leave as if the employee same leave upon the same terms shorter notice period. with a serious illness or injury. leave: Employer may require had continued to work. (unless the child has reached Bone marrow donation Request for qualifying physician verification for the Leave Requests school age or, in the case of a leave: No provision, however, exigency leave because of family purpose and length of each leave Federal Elements hard-to-place or handicapped the New York Department of member’s active duty or call to requested by an employee. To be made by employee at child, has reached age 18). Labor has advised that employ- active duty in the Armed Forces. Military spouse leave: No least 30 days prior to date leave Blood donation leave: No ers may require notice: To demonstrate employee’s provision is to begin where need is known provision, however, the New • At least 24 hours in fitness to return to work from Paid family leave (effective in advance or, where not foresee- York Department of Labor has advance of a scheduled bone medical leave where employer has Jan. 1, 2018): An employee may able, as soon as practicable. issued guidelines allowing em- marrow donation; or a uniformly applied practice or be required to provide a medi- If due to a planned medical ployers to require at least: • As soon as possible after policy requiring such certification. cal certification completed by a treatment or for intermittent leave, • Three working days’ receipt of a request for an un- State Elements health care provider to support the employee, subject to health advance notice of the employee’s scheduled bone marrow donation. Pregnancy leave: Employers the need for family leave. care provider’s approval, shall intent to take leave for off-prem- Military spouse leave: No cannot discriminate on the basis make a reasonable effort to sched- ises blood donation; or provision of sex and must treat disability Executive, Administrative, ule it in a way that does not unduly • Two days’ advance notice of Paid family leave (effective arising from pregnancy in the and Professional Employees disrupt employer’s operations. the employee’s intent to take leave Jan. 1, 2018): When the need for same manner as other disabilities. Federal Elements If due to foreseeable active for any other blood donation. family leave is foreseeable (for Adoptive parents leave: These individuals are enti- duty of family member, notice must The employer may require example, for the birth or place- Employers that permit employ- tled to FMLA benefits. However, be made as soon as practicable. up to 10 working days’ advance ment of a child or for planned ees to take leaves of absence their use of FMLA leave does State Elements notice as necessary to fill the medical treatment), an employee upon the birth of a child must not change their status under the Pregnancy leave: Employers position if both: may be required to provide his permit an adoptive parent, Fair Labor Standards Act cannot discriminate on the basis • The employee taking or her employer with 30 days’ following commencement of (FLSA), i.e., an employer of sex and must treat disability leave is in a job that is essential advance notice of the intention parent-child relationship, the does not lose its exemption from arising from pregnancy in the to the employer’s operations or to take family leave. If the need same leave upon the same terms the FLSA’s minimum wage and same manner as other disabilities. necessary to comply with legal for leave is not foreseeable, the (unless the child has reached overtime requirements. Adoptive parents leave: requirements; and employee must provide notice as school age or, in the case of a State Elements Employers that permit employ- • Three days’ notice is insuf- soon as practicable. hard-to-place or handicapped No specific provision ees to take leaves of absence ficient for the employer to fill the child, has reached age 18). upon the birth of a child must position for the leave period. Certification Requirement Blood donation leave: No Other permit an adoptive parent, If leave is for blood dona- Federal Elements provision, however, the New State Elements Registered domestic partners must be treated the same as PINEVIEW COMMONS, LLC spouses for most purposes under New York law, including for An Assisted Living Facility employee leave purposes.

Statutes It’s nice to Federal Elements know 29 USC 2601 you have State Elements friends N.Y. Exec. Law § 296 just around (pregnancy leave) N.Y. Lab. the corner. Law § 201-c (adoptive parents leave); § 202-j (blood donation leave); § 202-a (bone marrow donation leave); § 202-i (military spouse leave); N.Y. Work Comp § 200, et seq (paid family leave)

Please note that the information in the above chart focuses on statewide laws. Employers must be aware that numerous cities across the country (including New York City) have enacted local ordi- nances that mandate employers to provide paid sick leave to employees. An employer located in a city with a paid sick leave law must comply with the local ordinance and statewide law, if applicable. New York State Department of Labor Building 12 W.A. Harriman Campus Albany, NY 12240 Phone: 518-457-9000 May, 2018 Newsline 7

To advertise in

French 75 performs at the April 14 concert. For more information visit Chamber Music at the Chamber on Facebook. Saratoga Arts made this program possible with a Community Arts Grant funded by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and Newsline the New York State Legislature. contact Brian Krohn, McClary Media, (518) 843-1100 ext. 108

LEFT – Joshua Thompson, Artistic Director for the Chamber Music at the Chamber series, tells the sell-out crowd at the April 14 concert [email protected] about the series receiving a Saratoga Arts grant. The series was awarded a second grant for the series, this round presenting a $2500 check for 4 concerts hosted by the Chamber, Gloversville Community Music and the Gloversville Business Improvement District. 8 Newsline May, 2018 Chamber Member News Flooring Authority Inc. expands to offer online purchasing Chamber Member Anniversaries

There is a new local option to purchase your commercial The following businesses realize the value of their Chamber investment flooring needs. Flooring Authority Inc. has added an online and have renewed their membership in the month of April of this year. store to their website. This allows customers to view current se- Please note these member businesses and the year they joined! Thank you lections we have in stock at our Amsterdam warehouse. Please visit www.flooringauthorityinc.com to view the current selec- to all our renewing Chamber members: tion and find out more about our business. Currently, the site Less than 5 Years is updated weekly to offer any surplus ma- Argersinger Office Complex...... 2016 terial we have avail- KCS Land Research...... 2015 able at below cost pric- Rolling Hills Country Club...... 2014 ing. Selections include broadloom carpet, car- Miller’s Ready Mix Concrete and Block...... 2014 pet tile, LVT (luxury Insight Payroll Solutions, Inc...... 2014 vinyl tile), sheet vinyl, The Wesson Group, LLC...... 2014 and rubber tile. The next phase will allow customers to place custom orders and will be available by summer. Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth...... 2013 Flooring Authority Inc. is a small, but growing local business located in Amsterdam at 6 Sam Stratton Rd. We remove 5 to 9 Years existing flooring, prepare substrate, and install a variety of flooring materials for commercial projects. GIANT Solutions, LLC...... 2011 Flooring Authority Inc. has warehouse and outside storage space available to rent. If your business is bursting at the seams, H & M Equipment Co., Inc...... 2011 or you just need a short term storage solution please contact us Lamont Engineers...... 2011 to see what we have available. Prudential Blake Commercial...... 2011 Office hours are Monday - Friday 8-5, material pick-up can be arranged for night/weekend hours as needed. Please call their Amsterdam Printing...... 2011 office for more information (518) 627-4178, or visit them on- Fulton County Farm Bureau...... 2010 line on their website, or on Facebook. SW The Spa...... 2010 Amsterdam Mohawks...... 2009 Skip’s Service Station...... 2009 Adirondack Septic Tank, Inc...... 2009 10 to 19 Years

R&A Waite, Inc...... 2008 Elizabeth Cady Stanton Women’s Consortium...... 2007 Allan MacVean, CFP...... 2007 School House Treasures...... 2006 Thomas Persse Insurance Agency...... 2005 St. John’s Episcopal Church...... 2005 Neznek Farm...... 2001 Carpe Canem Inc...... 2001 Harold’s Restaurant & Lounge...... 1999 City of Amsterdam...... 1998 Roser Communications Network, Inc...... 1998 Salmon Law Firm, PLLC...... 1998 Great Sacandaga Lake Association...... 1998 20 Years or More – Congratulations and THANK YOU!

Electro-Metrics...... 1996 WENT-AM 1340...... 1987 William Bresonis, DDS, PC...... 1980 C.T. Male Associates, PC...... 1974 May, 2018 Newsline 9 Chamber Member News St. Mary’s Healthcare, Amsterdam is one of only two hospitals in the capital region certified as a Safe Sleep hospital for newborns.

St. Mary’s Healthcare in baby’s sleep area. and education in infant sleep of Beech-nut’s theme, Loving Amsterdam, New York has been • Wedges and positioners safety. By becoming certified, Babies for over 125 Years. “ recognized by the National Safe should not be used. a hospital is demonstrating that St. Mary’s Healthcare has Sleep Hospital Certification • Do not smoke during preg- it is committed to the mission embraced the Cribs for Kids Program as a silver level lead- nancy or allow smoking of making babies as safe as program due to its belief that (1) er for their commitment to best around your baby. possible in their sleep environ- it is critical for healthcare insti- practices and education on in- • Do not let your baby get too ments and eliminating as many tutions to provide consistent fant safe sleep. The hospital is hot during sleep. sleep related deaths as possible. infant safe sleep messages; (2) one of only two hospitals in the • Breastfeed your baby. Julia Shafer, RN, ex- a structured hospital-based pro- region certified as a safe sleep • Give your baby a dry paci- plains, “We have trained the gram helps achieve the goal of hospital for newborns. fier that is not attached to a St. Mary’s Birthplace staff on reducing the risk of injury and According to Julia string for naps and at night to the importance of safe sleep death to infants while sleeping; Shafer, St. Mary’s Director Baby Olivia in her Beech-Nut reduce the risk of SIDS after for newborns, and we edu- and that (3) hospital based Safe of Women’s Services, “sud- “Safe Sleep” Wear at St. Mary’s breastfeeding is established. cate new parents on safe sleep Sleep Programs are important den infant death syndrome Birthplace • Supervised Skin to Skin is practices. It’s also exciting to for providing consistent infant (SIDS) is the leading cause of recommended to all moth- reach out to the community safe sleep information to hos- death among infants between safety standards of the ers and infants immediately to spread the word; this is a pital personnel including med- 1 month and 1year of age. Consumer Product Safety following birth regardless great example of small posi- ical, nursing, breastfeeding, Although we don’t know the Commission (CPSC) is of feeding or delivery, (as tive changes that can make a child birth education, and nu- exact cause of SIDS, the good recommended. soon as mother is medical- big impact. Shafer continued, tritional staff, to ensure spread news is that safe sleep practic- • Your baby should not sleep ly stable, awake and able “I’m thankful and happy to and adoption in the community. es can reduce the risk for SIDS in an adult bed, on a couch to respond to her newborn) share that Beech-Nut, our lo- For additional information and other sleep-related causes or on a chair alone, with and to continue for at least cal baby food manufacturer, and education on safe sleep of infant death.” Shafer also of- you, or with anyone else. an hour. Once mother starts has teamed up to support our please visit: cribsforkids.org/. fered other information about • Keep your baby’s sleep to get sleepy, return baby safe sleep initiative. Beech-nut To find out more about “safe sleep” for newborns. area in the same room to bassinet. lovingly donated safe sleep St. Mary’s Healthcare, visit What is infant safe sleep? where you sleep (for the • Follow health care provid- wearable blankets for our new www.smha.org or call (518) It’s the creation of a safe infants first year). Room er guidance on your baby’s families, a natural extension 841-7162. sleep environment by doing sharing is not bed sharing. vaccines and regular health these things: Always place the baby in checkups • Always place a baby on his a safety-approved crib or The National Safe Sleep or her back to sleep, for bassinet for sleep. Hospital Certification Program naps and at night, to reduce • Sitting devices like bouncy was created by Cribs for Kids the risk of SIDS. seats, swings, infant carri- and is endorsed by leading • Use a firm sleep sur- ers or strollers should not health and safety organizations. face, covered by a fit- be used for routine sleep. Its goal is to award recognition ted sheet; a crib, bassi- • Keep soft objects such as to hospitals that demonstrate net, portable crib or play pillows and blankets, toys a commitment to community yard that conforms to the and bumpers out of your leadership for best practices

Mountain Valley Hospice Seeks team. It just became what they did.” Nominations for 1st Annual These qualities were on display through Nancy J. Dowd Humanitarian Award events such as a middle-of-the-night boat ride by an MVH nurse to a remotely located patient

home, the annual picnic held for all MVH pa- Mountain Valley tient families or loved ones, and the mutual Hospice (MVH) seeks support the MVH team members provided each nominations for the other so they could always ensure they were first annual Nancy J. able to give the patient and family their best. Dowd Humanitarian A fitting tribute for their 30th anniversary, Award (NDHA) to MVH will honor an individual or organization be announced as part following in Nancy’s footsteps by making a dif- of a 30th anniversa- ference in the lives of Mohawk Valley residents. ry celebration scheduled for Tuesday, August The ideal candidate will display concrete exam- 14th at their campus at 108 Steele Avenue in ples of visionary leadership delivering humanitar- Will Travel Anywhere in the Tri-County Area. Gloversville. ian services to the community that improve qual- NDHA Task Force Chair Patrick Dowd said ity of life. Organizational candidates must role of the inaugural award, “My mother was widely model a culture of human welfare, social reform, known for selfless giving to anyone in need. She philanthropy, or commitment to volunteerism. spent her career providing care to people fac- The deadline for nominations is May ing medical challenges. She always attempted 15th. For more information, please call MVH to alleviate the patients’ symptoms, while also President/CEO Kara Travis at 518-725-4545 or calming their anxieties so they could enjoy the email [email protected]. For more in- highest quality of life possible given the circum- formation about Mountain Valley Hospice, visit stances. She carried this philosophy to the MVH www.mvhcares.org. 10 Newsline May, 2018 Chamber Member News Entertainment, Vendors announced for Southern Adirondack Wine & Food The Chamber Festival; tickets available May 1 Benefits Scheduled for Saturday, June 9 in Downtown Gloversville Your Business The Gloversville Business Improvement District (BID) has announced vendors and entertainment for its annual Thomas Casale Southern Adirondack Wine & Membership Coordinator Food Festival, scheduled for Saturday, June 9 from 3pm- The Fulton Montgomery Regional nities being offered locally. 7pm on Main Street in down- Chamber of Commerce offers its nearly Promotion – Members can promote town Gloversville. The event 1,000 members many important benefits to a new business, grand opening or remod- will feature tastings from 13 different New York wineries, dis- help their businesses. The Chamber works eling with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The tilleries, breweries and cideries; food will be available from 14 with businesses to benefit the community, its Chamber promotes its members on social food trucks and other food vendors, and there will be 18 arts and residents and economic growth in the area. media and through inquiries at our local crafts vendors. There also will be two stages with live music While joining the Chamber has many ad- offices. Each Chamber member gets a de- throughout the event. vantages, some of the main benefits offered tailed business listing on our website that to local businesses are advocacy, network- is searched thousands of times a month by ing, promotion and marketing opportunities. people looking for goods and services in Advocacy – The Chamber will help be our region. We are always looking for ways a unified voice for your business, wheth- to promote our members to local residents er it’s a local, state or federal issue. While and tourists coming into the area. businesses may not need an advocate on a Marketing Opportunities – Chamber daily basis, the Chamber is always here to members can raise awareness of their busi- fight for you when an issue arises and lobby ness and services through different market- on your behalf. ing opportunities. A big advantage mem- Spirits vendors confirmed for the event include Stump Networking – Networking is one of bers have is with marketing opportunities City Brewing, Rogers Cideryard, the Adirondack Winery, the main reasons that many businesses through the Chamber such as reduced pric- Cooperstown Distillery, Freefall Sangria, Hudson Chatham join the Chamber. Members come from ing on newsletter advertising, or advertising Winery, Hummingbird Hills Winery, Kerrs Creek Distillery, businesses of every size and occupation- on our Destination One program at the Vail Lakeland Winery, Ledge Rock Hill Winery, Nine Pin Cider al background, making the Chamber one Mills Visitors Center, on our website and in Works, Olde York Farm Distillery & Cooperage, Vino Slush of the best networks you’ll ever have. our quality-of-life magazine, Focus Fulton and Gourmet Mixes. The musical lineup that will appear on There are opportunities like Business Montgomery Region NY. Many of our pop- two stages includes The Insolent Willies, Matthew Bosworth, After Hours, where a local business hosts ular advertising outlets are available only to Ellen Keehan, and Our Secret Love Society. Food vendors in- a networking event for Chamber mem- Chamber members. clude AKA Concessions/Hawaiian Ice, Given to Fry, Fudge by bers to attend. Chamber members have an There are many more beneficial advan- Angels, Goodway Gourmet Bakery, Gusto Della Vita, Hidden opportunity to serve on a committee like tages to being a Chamber member. To learn Hollow Maple Farm, Meme’s Snack Shack, Mohawk Harvest our Ambassador Committee or Education more about joining the Chamber and all Cooperative Market, Pop’s Hot Dog Cart, Something Different Committee. The Chamber also sponsors we have to offer, contact Thomas Casale at Food Truck, Spacey Tracy Pickles, Thrive Life Foods, Under different events every month where mem- [email protected] or the Nose, Vashti’s Kitchen Delights, and Worldlings Pleasures. bers can network and learn about opportu- 518-725-0641. Sponsorships are currently being solicited for the event; please reference for more information the Southern Adirondack Wine and Food Festival Facebook page, the event website or the BID website, www.gloversvillebid.org, or contact the Event North Main Street United Methodist Church Chairman and BID President Jim Scheleiser at (518) 332-4912, schedules events [email protected] Pre-sale tickets are $20 per person and $25 day of event; The North Main Street United Methodist For more information, contact Jenna Mares at there is also a non-drinker ticket available for $10. All attendees Church, located at 316 N. Main Street in Catholic Charities, (518) 842-4202, x3121 must have a ticket except for children under 10 are admitted Gloversville, has scheduled two events for Saturday, May 20 4pm-6pm free of charge. There will be no pets allowed at the event.Pre- May: Free Concert with The Remnants sale tickets are available after May 1 at the Fulton Montgomery Friday, May 19 9:30am-12:30pm (regis- The Remnants’ musical styles include Regional Chamber of Commerce, 2 N. Main Street, Gloversville, tration begins at 8:30am) bluegrass and southern gospel, contemporary and at the Mohawk Harvest Cooperative Market, 30 N. Main Opiod Prevention and Awareness Christian, old favorites, praise and worship Street, Gloversville. There will be additional ticket outlets that Summit (in conjunction with Catholic Charities with favorite hymns and original songs by will be announced online at the event website www.southernad- of Fulton and Montgomery Counties) group members. The concert is free of admis- irondackwineandfoodfestival.com or the event Facebook page. Presentation from DEA Agent on Fentanyl, sion, but donations are appreciated. For more Tickets are also available online at www.eventbrite.com. Sharing of Personal Experience by Kenneth information, call (518) 725-7323. For more information about the event, visit the event website Hogeboom, Panel of Representatives from Visit North Main Street United Methodist southernadirondackwineandfoodfestival.com, the Gloversville Local Agencies. Attendees are encouraged Church online at www.nmsumc.org or on BID website or on Facebook: Southern Adirondack Wine and to come early and enjoy coffee and network. Facebook. Food Festival or Gloversville BID. May, 2018 Newsline 11 Chamber Member News Caroga Arts Collective Kids Concert (July 28, noon); MARO (indie folk, July 28, evening); Matthew Whitaker Trio (jazz announces the 7th Annual piano, August 4); Rhythm Future Quartet (gypsy Caroga Lake Music Festival jazz, August 11); SAUNDERS FEST (bluegrass,- The Fort Plain Museum’s American Revolution Geoff Saunders & family, August 11).

Mohawk Valley Conference is back for 2018 fea- Artist in Residence Concerts. Musicians of Since 2012, Caroga turing 11 Author/Historian Presentation and Panel the Caroga Lake Music Festival will be featured Lake Music Festival Discussion, a Bus Tour of 1778, an Evening with guests at venues in Gloversville, Peck’s Lake, Washington and Madison including all new fundrais- has brought the charms Cooperstown (new in 2018), Ghent, Woodstock, er dinner, a Genealogy Day and more! For registra- of live classical, jazz Albany, Johnstown, Cobleskill, Mayfield, Lake tion form, conference schedule, lodging information and pop music to the or for further information, please visit: www.fort- southern Adirondacks. Luzerne, and Dorset (Vermont). Additional venues plainmuseum.com/conference or call 518-774-5669 Now organized as the may be announced at later dates. Thursday, June 7, 2018 - Author Presentation: non-profit Caroga Arts Caroga Chapel Concerts. The original home of • Michael E. Newton - Alexander Hamilton’s Collective, the festival the Caroga Lake Music Festival, an intimate setting Revolutionary War Service offers a rich and varied for mostly classical music performed by festival per- • Representatives from the Alexander menu of live music, film screenings, and educational formers, weekly starting June 16. Hamilton Awareness Society will be on hand to music and art gatherings at venues in Caroga Lake The Barge at Canada Lake Concerts. Classical, discuss the organization and a new chapter being and beyond. Most festival events are offered for free, jazz and folk music performed on a floating barge at created in the Mohawk Valley supported generously by area businesses, founda- Canada Lake Store & Marine, with audience seating Friday, June 8, 2018 - Author Presentation: tions and private individuals. on shore. July 22 & August 5. Generously hosted by • Russell Shorto - Revolution Song: America’s 2018 Season Highlights the Fielding family. Founding Era in Six Remarkable Lives Encore! Jazz Sessions with Kittel & Co. (man- Summer String Project Concerts. The Saturday/Sunday, June 9-10, 2018 - Author Summer String Projects offer local music students Presentations: dolin, guitar and fiddle, July 27); the Matthew from Schoharie, Fulton and Montgomery Counties • Edward G. Lengel - George Washington and Whitaker Trio (jazz piano, August 3); the J-Music the chance to experience, learn and share music the Burning of New York City, 1776 Pocket Band (jazz saxophone, August 10); the with the Caroga Lake Music Festival artists for five • Eric H. Schnitzer - “Hessians” at the Battle Glenn Zaleski Trio (jazz piano, August 17). of Bennington, 1777 Sherman’s Revival Series. Caroga Arts days leading up to a finale side-by-side performance • James L. Nelson - Benedict Arnold’s Navy: Collective is proud to promote the return of Sherman’s at the Arkell Museum in Canajoharie (August 8 The Story of the Rag Tag Fleet that Lost the Battle of Amusement Park to its former glory as a lake- for Schoharie County) and at St. Vincent de Paul Valcour Island and Won the American Revolution side summer destination for fun, frolic, and events. Catholic Church in Cobleskill (August 9 for Fulton • Don N. Hagist - Redcoats Along the Mohawk: Join us at Sherman’s this summer for seven special & Montgomery Counties). British Soldiers in Western New York, 1777-1783 events: Sawyer Fredericks (folk, June 8); Cara For more information visit the Caroga Arts • Bruce M. Venter - Benedict Arnold’s Samantha (pop, July 21); Musical Storytelling: A Collective online at carogaarts.org. Nemesis: Colonel John Brown’s Fateful Journey to the Mohawk Valley • Jennifer DeBruin - Traitors, Spies & Heroes: Wal-Mart DC #6096 Employees Loyalist Espionage in the American Revolution • Glenn F. Williams - Sir William Johnson, the assist regional food bank Iroquois Confederacy and Lord Dunmore’s War • John Buchanan - Two Warriors: George Washington and Sir William Howe • Wayne Lenig - The Tryon County Committee of Safety • Panel Discussion - Patriot or Loyalist? Bus Tour of the 1778 Battle & Raid Sites Thursday, June 7, 2018 Bus tour of historic sites featuring the events of 1778; the Battle of Cobleskill, the Cherry Valley Massacre, Springfield, Andrustown, Adam Employees of the Wal-Mart Distribution North Main Street United Methodist Church in Helmer’s Run, Fort Herkimer and Fort Plain/ Center, located at 300 Enterprise Road in Gloversville and the NOAH Program at St. John’s Rensselaer. Lunch stop in Cooperstown. Johnstown, recently participated in a community Episcopal Church in Johnstown. The group had 62 Genealogy Day service project at the Food Bank of Northeastern participants who worked an average of 5 hours and Friday, June 8, 2018 NY in Latham. They worked with other volunteers sorted through 52 pallets of supplies. Because of the Visit Mohawk Country historic sites (sites, to package food, diapers and household supplies for large turnout, Walmart also will be donating $5,000 schedules and admission fees will be posted sep- needy families in the Capital District, including in to the Regional Food Bank. For more information arately). Sites will have presentations and/or his- our region at places like the Salvation Army and contact the Wal-Mart DC at (518) 736-3000. torians on hand to discuss the families that fought on both sides during the American Revolution. An Evening with Washington and Madison - Fundraiser Dinner Saturday, June 9, 2018 (Evening) Join George Washington and James Madison, protrayed by Brian Hilton and Kyle Jenks, as they discuss their journeys to upstate New York and other founding moments. All new Fundraising Dinner. Cash bar with a variety of alcohol and non-alcohol beverages. The Bridge Walk at the Perthshire 112 Perthshire Drive Amsterdam, NY 12010 12 Newsline May, 2018 Two Great Locations!

THE Place to Go for the Area’s Best Selection of Vehicles! May, 2018 Newsline 13 14 Newsline May, 2018 Advocacy Corner Business Council Statement on final enacted New York State budget; Chamber’s advocacy on budget issues for 2018

The Business Council of and fee increases. We still be- posal, although we do appreci- lectures for group collabora- Our Chamber has signed on NY State is the leading busi- lieve New York State spends ate that the final language made tion and hands-on learning. as a coalition member of the ness organization in New too much with unsatisfactory it optional. The effect of the Here, students take the lead Trucking Association of New York State, representing the results, especially in educa- charitable giving gambit is ulti- role in their learning, choos- York’s efforts to repeal this interests of large and small tion and Medicaid. Increasing mately dependent on IRS deter- ing pathways to their careers burdensome tax. firms throughout the state. taxes would only exacerbate mination as to its deductibility. and take college-level, cred- Their membership is made those spending issues. As we prepare for the rest it-bearing courses from their Discontinue the unfunded up of roughly 2,400 member Policy-wise the budget is of the session, one of the key first year. PTECH aims to mandates pushed down companies, local chambers a mixed-bag for New York’s issues the Governor and the look and function more like by the state on to county of commerce and profession- employers. While we’re en- Legislature need to address is a hybrid between college government: al and trade associations. The couraged by the continued a more complete response on and the workplace. The 4- to Unfunded state and fede- Fulton Montgomery Regional funding for workforce de- federal tax conformity. We 6-year sequence emphasizes ral mandates account for a Chamber of Commerce fol- velopment programs, there must de-couple in addition- individualized pathways to large percentage of a county- lows their advocacy issues needs to be transparency, ac- al areas where not doing so completion, workplace expe- ’s tax levy in New York State. closely for its own members, countability and employer en- would lead to stealth tax in- riences, mentorship, in-depth A “mandate”’ os a state or and concurs with most of their gagement with any workforce creases on already over-taxed project-based learning and federal program that based legislative platform. development program. If the New Yorkers. We are encour- real-world experiences. on statute are required to be Heather Bricetti, Esq., state is serious about address- aged that both the Legislature In 2014, after receiving a operated by lower level go- president and CEO of The ing the skills gap, employers and the Administration have grant from NY, HFM BOCES vernment. The most overwhel- Business Council of New need to be involved and there taken initial steps in this bud- was one of eleven regions to ming mandates for the region York State, Inc., released the need to be transparent out- get for both individual and establish an upstate PTECH are the NYS Welfare Mandate, following statement about the comes published for all work- business taxpayers. and repurposed a school build- that accounts for 9-10% of tax enacted NYS Budget. force development programs. We also see the tempo- ing in Johnstown to create a bills, and others that include “First, we want to thank We will maintain our wait- rary extension of the state’s standalone PTECH campus. Early Intervention Services, the Senate Majority for lis- and-see approach to the state’s MWBE program as allowing The success of our PTECH has Probation, Indigent Defense, tening to our members and SALT-mitigation plan. In our more time to evaluate the cur- led to the creation in our re- Youth Detention and the taxpayers across the state in own discussions with employ- rent program and the existing gion of an agriculturally-based Public Pension System. These holding the line against sev- ers we did not receive positive capacity of MWBEs to par- PTECH, called AgPTECH, that “other” mandates alone re- eral billion in proposed tax feedback on the payroll tax pro- ticipate in state contracts. The is in St. Johnsville. The success present 20% of our tax bills. program, while necessary, of the schools are clear, with To start, we recommend that is not operating the way it student success rates at all time the following steps be taken to should. Artificial benchmarks highs, and the HFM BOCES remedy the situation: are holding MWBEs back and PTECH receiving the presti- 1. The State take over the stifling economic develop- gious Model Schools Award Medicaid local share ment throughout the state. and recently was recognized 2. The Legislature should Finally, we are deeply dis- by the American Association take necessary steps to accom- appointed that the state chose of School Administrators as modate a phased-in takeover Arlene M. Sitterly, Inc. to preemptively react to the one of the top 25 most innova- of indigent defense costs. U.S. Supreme Court’s review tive schools in the country. In of Janus v. AFSCME before addition, you can read in this Maintain budget discipline Your Real Estate PROFESSIONALS the Court issued its ruling, by issue about two new PTECH sharply limiting public em- programs that will begin in Small business tax reform ployees’ discretion to join or our region in academic year quit unions. Employee choice 2018/2019 in Johnstown and Continue workers compen- is vital to a properly-function- Gloversville. sation reform ing democracy.” As a reminder, the Repeal of the Highway Use Infrastructure investments Chamber’s Legislative plat- Tax: Much of the state’s infra- form for 2018 contains the fol- New York State is one structure (roads, bridges, wa- lowing pro-business initiatives of only four states left in the ter systems, etc. are outdated, for the year, that are affected country to levy a weight-dis- in need of repair replacement. by the NYS Budget: tance tax on commercial It is difficult to attract business 363 N. Comrie Ave., vehicles. The reporting re- investment here when the in- Johnstown, NY 12095 Continue or expand PTECH quirements of the law are bur- frastructure they so rely on is funding: densome leading to evasion by crumbling. The State needs to (518)762-9885 PTECH (Pathways to out-of-state carriers, thus put- make a concerted effort to un- Technology Early College ting NY carriers at a compet- dertake the needed upgrades 4781 St. Hwy. 30, in HIgh School) was first es- itive disadvantage. Trucking through sensible budgeting. Amsterdam, NY 12010 tablished in NY in 2010 in is crucial to the economy of If you have any ques- Brooklyn and deemed a rev- NY State. According to the tions or need further infor- (518) 212-2503 olutionary concept as a way Trucking Association of New mation about the Chamber’s of educating our students. York, trucks transport 93% of Advocacy Agenda or www.coldwellbankerams.com PTECH is a new model for total manufactured freight in Advocacy Committee initia- secondary education that the state and nearly 90% of all tives, please contact Chamber trades classrooms for “inno- communities rely exclusively President/CEO Mark Kilmer vation spaces” and ditches on trucks to move their goods. at (518) 725-0641. May, 2018 Newsline 15

Microenterprise Training Classes

The Chamber is facilitating microenterprise training classes that are mandatory for the Montgomery County Agriculture Microenterprise Program (MCAMP). Twenty-seven people attended the first class presented by Attorney Chuck Tallent, of the firm MacKenzie & Tallent Attorneys at Law located at 42 Church Street in Canajoharie. The classes are being held at the Montgomery County Annex Building, 20 Park Street in Fonda and will run every Tuesday through May 8. This MCAMP grant program will provide $188,000 to Montgomery County agricultural businesses made possible through a grant from the New York State Office for Housing and Community Renewal. For more information about the grant program, which will be ad- ministered by the Montgomery County Business Development Center and Montgomery County Soil and Water, visit the MCBDC at www.mcbdc.org.

Upcoming Chamber Events!

May 1 and 8 — 7pm Microenterprise Grant Classes For Montgomery County Agricultural Microenterprise Grant Program 20 Park Street, Fonda (Montgomery County Annex Bldg), Room 111 Although these are tailored for agricultural businesses who are applying for the grant program, anyone can take these classes @ $25/class: Great Rates... Tuesday, May 1 – Recordkeeping, Accounting, Taxes and Financing – Presented by Neil Thomas, First National Bank of Scotia. This class will provide the participant and Now 3 Great with an overview of necessary business recordkeeping. Additionally this session teaches how to report business activity for taxes, financing, or to evaluate certain business bench- Locations marks. Tuesday, May 8– Developing the Business Plan – Presenter TBD Main Office: Here the attendees will learn how to develop a Business Plan incorporating the pre- 355 Hales Mills Rd., Gloversville vious three sessions. The attendees will work on a step-by-step model taught by business 518-725-3191 leaders and professionals to create an effective Business Plan. RSVP required for planning purposes, contact Terry at the Chamber at terrys@fultonmontgomeryny.org Branch Office: Inside Gloversville WalMart Supercenter Thursday, May 17 – 8am 518-725-4413 Eggs & Issues in Amsterdam Chamber office, 1166 Riverfront Center Branch Office: An early morning conversation about what is important to your businesses and com- 3677 State Highway 30, Broadalbin munities. Let’s talk with Chamber staff, and fellow businesses, about tourism, marketing (Next to Subway) businesses/the region, advocacy, and more. We invite businesses, large and small, and 518-883-7156 their employees to come together for some great conversation and light breakfast. Free of charge. At this event, we are targeting businesses in Amsterdam and the surrounding areas, but if the event fits into your schedule, we welcome all businesses to attend. www.fcfinancialcu.org RSVP required for planning purposes, contact Terry at the Chamber at terrys@fultonmontgomeryny.org Become a member today! 16 Newsline May, 2018 Tourism News

non-profit organizations, (Chamber Member), and government departments Amsterdam, The Amsterdam in Saratoga, Fulton, and Oratorio by Maria Riccio Montgomery Counties, in Bryce partnership with qualifying • Friends of Fort Plain, organizations and artists, to Fort Plain, The Future of present arts and cultural pro- the Erie Canal in Fort Plain grams of high artistic merit in Program local communities. • Friends of Schoharie This year’s grant-funded Crossing, Fort Hunter, Not Just recipients and their funded For Kids Storytelling Series projects offer the communi- • Glen Conservancy, ty year-round opportunities Fultonville, Glen Conservancy Gina DaBiere-Gibbs to experience a wide array of Community Concert Series Director of Tourism free or low-cost artistic events • Kanatsiohareke, Inc., [email protected] highlighting talented local and Fonda, Second Annual regional artists. An estimated Haudenosaunee Film Festival Saratoga Arts Grants 34,000+ community mem- • Mohawk Valley Chorus, Recipients bers, 6,000+ youth, and 800+ Amsterdam, Rutter’s Requiem artists will directly participate • Music on Mainstreet, Saratoga Arts recently in these grant-funded events Canajoharie, Music on held a reception for the win- occurring throughout 2018. Mainstreet Summer Concert ners of the 2018 Community For more information Series 2018 Arts Grants Recipients. Thirty- about Saratoga Arts, visit the • Village of St. Johnsville, five grants totaling $103,800 organization online at www. St. Johnsville, Concerts in the have been awarded to support saratoga-arts.org. Park community-based arts events The Montgomery County The Fulton County recip- taking place in 2018. recipients are: ients are: With funding that it is • Amsterdam Waterfront • Caroga Arts Collective Representatives of Caroga Arts Collective at the Saratoga Arts awarded from the New York Foundation (Chamber (Chamber Member), Caroga, Grant reception. State Council on the Arts, Member), Amsterdam, 2018 Caroga Lake Music Festival Saratoga Arts’ Community Riverlink Music Series 2018 & the Summer Student Arts Grants support artists, • City of Amsterdam String Project • Colonial Little Theater (Chamber Member), Johnstown, 2018 Theater Series • Fulton County YMCA, with artist Allyson Kaczmarek, Johnstown, Brown’s Raid, a Historical Musical • Gloversville BID (Chamber Member), Gloversville, Chamber Music at the Chamber, (held in conjunction with the Fulton Montgomery Chamber and Gloversville Community Music) • Gloversville Citizens Band, Gloversville, Summer Band Concerts in the Park • Johnstown Citizen’s Band, Johnstown, Johnstown Mid-Summer Concert Series • Lexington Foundation at Paul Nigra Center for Creative Arts (Chamber Schoharie Crossing representatives receive their grant award at the Saratoga Arts Grant reception. Member), Mayfield, Fulton- Montgomery Counties Art Show • Sacandaga Valley Arts Visit our tourism event calendars for more information on Network (Chamber Member), these and other events happening in Fulton County, Northville, Sacandaga Live: A Celebration of Music in 2018 www.44lakes.com/calendar • Philip Spaeth, Northville, and Montgomery County, Adirondack Sketches: Traditional www.visitmontgomerycountyny.com/events-calendar. ADK Instruments in Concert Music May, 2018 Newsline 17 Tourism News

troduce new people, of all ages, lifestyle for the youth surround- to the sport of triathlon while ing the Great Sacandaga Lake providing veteran triathletes communities and the greater a great local race on the Great Fulton County region. Sacandaga Lake. Register by June 1 to The Great Sacandaga guarantee you receive your Challenge is a USA Triathlon shirt the day of the race (tee (USAT) sanctioned Sprint dis- shirts for those who pre-regis- tance (750m swim, 20k bike, 5k ter after June 1 are not guaran- run) triathlon, youth triathlon teed). Online registration clos- (100yd swim, 3.1 mile bike, 1 es at 7pm Thursday, June 14. mile run), and kids “Splash and Registration will be available Dash.” Youth and adult triathlons onsite the day of the race. are professionally chip timed For more information about photo of the Fulton County Visitors Center in Vail Mills. and managed. Proceeds from the the Great Sacandaga Challenge Great Sacandaga Challenge will Triathlon, to register, or to be- be used to fund activities and come a sponsor, please visit Visitors Center mer hours take effect the week Great Sacandaga programs to promote a healthy greatsacandagachallenge.com. Extended Hours of May 20 and remain open Challenge Triathalon daily until Columbus Day. For more information about the tourism programs in Fulton Our wonderful Visitor Center The annual Great Sacandaga and Montgomery Counties: The Fulton County Visitor staff members Bill VanVoast Challenge Triathlon is sched- Fulton County Tourism Center, located at the corner and Eunie Davis will contin- uled for Saturday, June 16 at the www.44lakes.com | Facebook: Visit Fulton County, NY of State Routes 29 and 30 in ue as Ambassadors to Fulton Sacandaga Bible Conference Twitter: @SeeFultonCounty Vail Mills (at the roundabout), County. Updated tourism bro- Center in Broadalbin. This fam- Montgomery County Tourism will begin extended hours on chures are always welcome at ily event offers an adult sprint www.visitmontgomerycountyny.com | Facebook: Visit Friday, May 4. The Visitor the Center and can be dropped triathlon and kids triathlon dis- Montgomery County NY | Twitter: @MCNYTourism Center will be open Friday- off there during the business tances. The goal of the Great You can also call the Tourism Department at (518) 725- Monday weekly until the sum- hours of 10am-4pm. Sacandaga Challenge is to in- 0641 or email [email protected] 18 Newsline May, 2018 The Fulton Montgomery Young Professionals Network Meet Up

The Fulton Montgomery Young Professionals Network (FMYPN) held a Meet Up Event on Wednesday, April 11 at Sharpshooters Billiards & Sport Pub, 35 E. Main Street in Amsterdam. Special thanks to Ivan and crew from the American Poolplayers Association (APA), who provided free pool lessons to attendees. The Fulton Montgomery Young Professionals Network (FMYPN) is looking to connect business professionals in the “20-something to 40-something” age range to connect and participate in events and more. The mission of the group is to foster an environment for young professionals in the Fulton Montgomery Counties region to network, conduct community outreach programs and to interact with community leaders. Although the targeted age range for this group is “20-something to 40-something,” the ex- pertise, participation, and comradery of professionals of all ages is sought, welcomed and encouraged. For more information about FMYPN, please visit the group’s Facebook page or the Chamber website at www.fultonmontgomeryny.org. Chamber staff liaison for the group is Nicole Walrath who can be reached at the Chamber at [email protected]. Audrey Egelston (Down by the River Kayak)

Sarah Quist, Chamber Board Member (Liberty ARC) and attendees in back. Sara James, Miss Montgomery County

Sarah Hafter (new Fulton Montgomery Chamber staffer) gets pointers from Josh Ivan and Josh from the American Pool Association from the American Pool Association May, 2018 Newsline 19

LARGE SELECTION OF TRUCK PARTS FOR HEAVY DUTY TRUCKS, TRAILERS DOWN? AND FORK LIFTS. Ext. 106 We’ll Put You Back on the Road! Truck and Trailer Repair & Maintenance FORK LIFT OSHA CERTIFICATION SERVICES INCLUDE: Forklift operator authorization training and • Air Brake Service • Air Conditioning certification (re-certification every 2 years). • Service Bay PM Service • Clutch Service 24 Hour Our certified trainer can provide and help your • Driveline • Major & Minor Repairs Road company comply with the specific training • Electrical • Exhaust requirements and safe operating procedures • Hydraulics • Lights Service • Roadside Service • Forklift Maintenance that are outlined in the OSHA Powered Industrial Truck regulation. KEEPS YOU FORK LIFT MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS MOVING! On and off site Ace Service Center is an official LIFT-RITE distributor of Pallet Jacks! programed maintenance ‘RHINO’ FORK LIFT Lift-Rite distributors offer pallet jacks for sale, as well as pallet jack available on all makes TIRES AVAILABLE parts and service. With LIFT-RITE, you will have one less thing to and models of fork lifts We can press forklift worry about. They are the most durable, versatile and comfortable tailored to meet your tires at your facility trucks in the industry to keep you moving forward. or at our shop! Call 518-725-6960 Ext 125 for more information. companies needs. Full Truckload Warehousing & Service Transportation • TRANSPORTATION Offering our Customers Trailer Load Service throughout the OVER 1.2 MILLION Northeast. SQ. FT. OF • REFUSED DELIVERIES SLA Transport as the capability to cross-dock, store, WAREHOUSE redeliver and arrange new appointments for goods refused at Distribution Centers. SPACE! • PUBLIC WAREHOUSING • Clearly Marked Locations • Cross Docking Universal Warehousing: 1.2 million sq. ft. availabe for your • Adherance to Food Grade • Security Monitored Facility warehousing requirements. • Third Party Logistics • Sprinkler-Fire Safety • WATER DELIVERY - WE FILL POOLS! Services (3PL) Prevention Why spend days trying to fill your pool? Let SLA Transport • Custom Fulfillment Quotes • Stringent Pest Control do it for you! • Pre-Pak & Co-Pak Call • Computer Maintained (518) 725-6960 • Warehousing & Shipping • Professional Customer inventory Ext. 114 - Water or Service Team • Tempurature Controlled - Ext. 128 - Dispatch • Light Assembly-Break Bulk Dry Space Office. Distribution • Video Surveillance Mayfield Commerce Park • Gloversville, NY 12078 Call 725-6960 *For More Information on Services Call • Like us on Facebook www.universalwarehousing.com • www.slatransport.com • www.aceservicecenter.com

Hours of Operation: 1st Shift - 7am-3:30pm; 2nd Shift - 3pm-11:30pm; 3rd Shift - 11pm-7:30am 20 Newsline May, 2018 Business Education Partnership News Learn about the Chamber’s Business Education Partnership

The Fulton Montgomery talk with students about di- Regional Chamber of verse topics—from profes- Commerce and HFM sional skills, dressing for suc- BOCES (Hamilton-Fulton- cess, to communication skills Montgomery Board of and technology in the work- Cooperative Educational place. Services) have collaborat- Guest Speakers ed to form a BUSINESS Guest speakers can be EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP asked to attend monthly (BEP). The BEP connects “Pathway Panel Discussions” HFM BOCES school districts at both PTECH and Ag and programs with our re- PTECH to highlight each de- gional businesses to help sup- gree pathway available. You port a well-prepared, capable may also be called upon to talk and adaptable workforce. In about what you do, or how turn, these partnerships can you got to your career paths to help improve student achieve- a class who may be working ment and educational compet- on a related project. itiveness. Job Shadowing Single- or multi-day work The BEP is looking trades classrooms for “inno- a hybrid between college nine Associate’s degrees from experiences where students for businesses to get vation spaces” and ditches and the workplace. The 4- to SUNY Cobleskill (Facebook: learn about a job/career by lectures for group collabora- 6-year sequence emphasizes HFM Ag PTECH, www.hfm- involved with programs walking through the work day tion and hands-on learning. individualized pathways to boces.org/programs-services/ as a shadow to a staff member such as Here, students take the lead completion, workplace expe- agptech/). at your business. role in their learning, choos- riences, mentorship, in-depth Field Trips/ Workplace • PTECH (Pathways in ing pathways to their careers project-based learning and re- • New Programming in Tours Technology Early College and take college-level, cred- al-world experiences. At the a number of HFM BOCES Provide a tour of your High School, located in it-bearing courses from their end of the program, students component schools to be place of business to students, Johnstown) is a new model first year. PTECH aims to in completion will receive a announced before the new teachers, guidance counselors, for secondary education that look and function more like High School diploma and a school year etc. two year Associate’s degree Special Projects/ from Fulton-Montgomery Ways in which Workplace Challenges Community College com- businesses can get Have students take on a pletely free of charge. HFM special project or workplace PTECH pathways are in involved: challenge – something from Advanced Manufacturing, which you will all learn! A Division of Electro-Metrics Corporation Business Management, Mentorships 231 Enterprise Road, Johnstown NY, 12095 Information Technology and Mentors are also given We encourage busi- Health Sciences (Facebook: the opportunity to meet face nesses to get involved with HFM PTECH, www.hfm- to face with students during the Business Education boces.org/programs-services/ the school year for network- Partnership to become a part- ptech/). ing and other events. Mentors ner in education and invest in help guide students as they our region’s future! • Ag PTECH, a PTECH learn the professional skills school with an emphasis needed to be a good employ- Contact: -State of the Art Waterjet on Agricultural Studies and ee. Mentors are encouraged to Nicole Walrath, Director Environmental Sciences, lo- participate in “Third Thursday of Workforce Development, -Commercial and Artistic Glass Cutting and cated in St. Johnsville where Professional Series” at both (518) 725-0641, nicolew@ Etching students can choose from PTECH and Ag PTECH to fultonmontgomeryny.org -Custom and Precision Machining, Milling and Turning -Sheet Metal Fabrication To advertise in -One-off and Volume Custom Metal Parts -Custom Vintage, Speed, Commercial and Street Newsline Vehicle Parts contact -Expert Welding -Powder Coating Brian Krohn, McClary Media, (518) 843-1100 ext. 108 Send Inquiries to: [email protected] [email protected] or call Paul Sikora at 518-705-4480 May, 2018 Newsline 21 Business Education Partnership News New PTECH programs set to open next year New Foothills PTECH will expand college degree opportunities, enhance regional economic development efforts

The Gloversville and ovated computer and video and families,” Gloversville dents, PTECH is an economic class of students this June, Johnstown school districts gaming lab and classrooms. Superintendent Robert DeLilli and workforce development with many of them on track to have been awarded a $3 million Gloversville and Johnstown said. “Regional job growth initiative that benefits our en- receive their associate degree grant to offer a new Pathways students are welcome to par- continues in both of these tire region. We can no longer and high school diplomas at in Technology Early College ticipate in either academy, fields, and there is tremendous separate our high schools from the same time. High School. Beginning in while still being enrolled as room for continued employ- our colleges and employers. Recognizing the suc- the fall of 2018, freshmen in district students with the opment and career growth.” The expansion of PTECH cess of the PTECH model, the two districts will have the portunity to participate in Through the Foothills programs will help us prepare BOCES and its component opportunity to earn their high athletics and extracurricular PTECH program, students a competent, modern work- districts partnered with SUNY school diploma and a college activities offered at their home will be able to earn one force to supply our region- Cobleskill to open the agricul- degree simultaneously at no high schools. of the following associ- al businesses and industries tural-themed Ag PTECH in cost to their families. The Academy of ate degrees: Health Studies, and attract new employers 2016. Johnstown and Computer Science and Game Medical Administrative to our area. I’d like to thank In addition to Gloversville Gloversville school districts are Arts will focus on the digital Assistant, Web and Mobile the Governor and the state and Johnstown, HFM BOCES partnering with the Hamilton- gaming industry as the entry Applications Development, Department of Education for is working with other school Fulton-Montgomery point for studies in computer Digital Media Technology embracing this program for districts in the area, including BOCES, Fulton Montgomery science, internet/web devel- and Design, Computer our children.” Amsterdam and Oppenheim- Community College, the opment, animation and related Information Systems, Business Foothills PTECH will be Ephratah-St. Johnsville, to Fulton-Montgomery Regional business and marketing fields. Administration and Business the third PTECH program to offer college degree and ca- Chamber of Commerce and The Academy of Health and Marketing. launch in the HFM region. reer pathway opportunities for local businesses to launch Medical Science will focus on “Expanding the use of HFM BOCES partnered with their students next year using the new Foothills PTECH. the medical arts and sciences, the successful PTECH mod- its component schools dis- the PTECH model. Foothills PTECH will be open with specific attention cen- el in our component school tricts, Fulton-Montgomery For more information, vis- by application to a total of 80 tered on laboratory, clinical districts will transform the Community College and local it www.hfmboces.org or to get incoming freshmen from the and patient technician career educational landscape in our business and industry part- involved as a business partner two districts. paths. area,” HFM BOCES District ners to launch the area’s first with any of these PTECH pro- “At Foothills PTECH, “Foothills PTECH is a Superintendent Patrick Michel PTECH school in 2014. Now grams, contact Nicole Walrath our students will be supported remarkable educational op- said. “In addition to providing in its fourth year, PTECH is at the Chamber at nicolew@ by their teachers in both their portunity for our students more opportunities for stu- poised to graduate its first fultonmontgomeryny.org. high school and college classes,” Johnstown superintendent Patricia Kilburn said. “This Full Service Concrete & Construction approach increases the chanc- Services Available es for each child’s success — as well as their chances to launch their futures — as college educated and employed young adults.” Since 1981 Following the model of the two successful PTECHs “Look for the truck with the big orange wrench!” currently in the HFM region, Foothills PTECH will offer a • Plumbing • Heating • Air Conditioning high school education featuring college-level, credit-bearing coursework that allows (518) 883-3077 students to select their own career pathway to high-skill Licensed Plumbers jobs. Through the program, Commercial & Residential selected students will have the opportunity to earn associate degrees at no cost to their fam- • Licensed Plumbers • Service & Installation ilies and will be considered for • Warm Air - Hot Water - Steam - Complete Systems jobs with partner businesses when they graduate. or Replacements • AO Smith Water Heaters The new Foothills PTECH will offer two areas of study at • Residential/Commercial two locations. The Academy of Health and Medical 444 Co. Hwy. 126 • Broadalbin, NY 12025 Sciences will be located in the former Meco Elementary OFFICE (518) 883-3077 • FAX (518) 883-8222 School in Gloversville, and Specializing in Concrete Stamping [email protected] the Academy of Computer www.adirondackmechanicalcorp.com Science and Game Arts will Jason Nare Chad Nare be housed within Johnstown 518-424-3517 518-857-1641 High School in the newly ren- 22 Newsline May, 2018 Business Education Partnership News

News from in completion will receive a dents to take risks, and in them into action is something High School diploma and a doing so has fostered a stu- we appreciate most,” junior HFM PTECH two year Associate’s degree dent-driven culture in which Natalie May said. from Fulton-Montgomery teachers function more Now in its fourth year, Hamilton Fulton Community College com- like coaches and students HFM PTECH will have its Montgomery Pathways pletely free of charge. HFM take ownership of their ed- first graduates this year. PTECH pathways are in ucation,” HFM BOCES Among these graduates, 10 in Technology Early Mike Dardaris, Advanced Manufacturing, Principal of Superintendent Dr. Patrick to 15 students are expected College High School Business Management, HFM PTECH Michel said. to graduate with both their (HFM PTECH) Information Technology and school. Nominees are admin- The PTECH program high school diploma and as- Health Sciences (Facebook: istrators who are committed targets students who might sociate’s degree. PTECH has PTECH is a new model HFM PTECH, www.hfm- to students, parents and the not otherwise consider a col- been recognized as one of 25 for secondary education that boces.org/programs-services/ community and have shown lege pathway and centers on national models of Innovative trades classrooms for “inno- ptech/). exceptional contributions to a project-based curriculum Successful Practices by the vation spaces” and ditches the educational process. focusing on professional American Association of lectures for group collabora- PTECH leader named As the principal of the skills in four career path- School Administrators and tion and hands-on learning. Principal of the Year innovative HFM PTECH, ways: business management The Successful Practices Here, students take the lead Dardaris’ leadership goal and administration, advanced Network. “Students and edu- role in their learning, choos- Hamilton Fulton has been to completely re- manufacturing, information cators from the HFM BOCES ing pathways to their careers Montgomery Pathways in define not only what lead- and technology, and health made a powerful presentation and take college-level, cred- Technology Early College ership looks like, but what sciences. Students entering to the Board of Regents at our it-bearing courses from their High School Principal Michael learning looks like in the the program work simulta- meeting earlier in March. It’s first year. PTECH aims to Dardaris has been named public school. Recognizing neously toward a Regents very easy to understand why look and function more like the New York State High that vision alone cannot cul- high school diploma and their PTECH model is being a hybrid between college School Principal of the Year tivate innovation and school an associate’s degree in ap- hailed as a national model to and the workplace. The 4- to by the School Administrators change, Dardaris and his plied science from Fulton- be emulated by others,” Board 6-year sequence emphasizes Association of New York team worked collaboratively Montgomery Community of Regents Chancellor Betty individualized pathways to State (SAANYS). to transform the traditional College. There is no cost to A. Rosa said. “These students completion, workplace expe- This award is given annu- educational system through the student’s family. are also inspiring us with their riences, mentorship, in-depth ally to a member of SAANYS teacher leadership and stu- Students say they appreci- service projects that benefit project-based learning and re- who has set the pace, char- dent empowerment. “As ate their principal’s ability to both the local community and al-world experiences. At the acter and quality of educa- the school’s leader, Michael go with the flow. “His willing- the wider world around them.” end of the program, students tion for the students in their encourages teachers and stu- ness to take opinions and put Coordinator for the New York State P-TECH Program at NYSED Amy Cox credit- FAMILY OWNED & SERVING THE ed the school’s success to the COMMUNITY OVER 50 YEARS! way Dardaris seeks out students whose needs — academic or socio-emotional — are the highest. “It is because of the leadership of Mr. Dardaris Commercial • Residential • Industrial and his staff that these stu- Great Prices-Great Value-Great Reputation dents, who once felt like out- siders themselves, are now Shingle, Metal & MINGO’S MOVING empowered to be leaders at Low Slope their college and community,” Roofing siding, NYSDOT#38945 she said. “Their success is a Windows, shared success that continues with each new class at HFM Seamless Gutters Financing Available Residential & PTECH under the amazing leadership of Mike Dardaris.” Independent 3rd Party Reviews & Reference List Dardaris earned his bach- Commercial elor’s degree in music educa- Fully Insured tion from the Crane School of • Complete Loading & Unloading Services Music at SUNY Potsdam, his Free Estimates • Specializing in Box Store Deliveries master of science in educa- • Commercial Deliveries and Moving tion from LeMoyne College, 518-725-7310 or 518-843-3118 and his certificate of advanced th • Free Estimates Showroom- 24 W.10 Ave, Gloversville • Specializing in Piano Moving study in education administra- www.correllroofing.com • Removal and Clean Outs tion from SUNY Cortland. Dardaris will be honored for his accomplishments at an awards ceremony on May 4 at the Century House in Latham. 518-842-3281 SAANYS represents nearly 7,200 school administra- [email protected] See Principal, on page 23 THE PINK PANTHER™ & © 1964 - 2014 MGM May, 2018 Newsline 23 Business Education Partnership News

News from High Tunnel Delivery the application. The local entities se- Principal, cured money for the high tunnel ma- continued from page 22 HFM Ag PTECH On April 9, Ag PTECH students terials, construction, the irrigation and unloaded the truck delivering the ma- ventilation systems, plants for the in- Agriculture Pathways in terials for the high tunnel greenhouse augural year, and any other expenses tors, supervisors, and coordinators. As Technology Early College High that will be built on the school grounds the students encounter while getting it a professional association, SAANYS is School (Ag PTECH) this spring. The structure will be built up and running. committed to providing direction, ser- with funds from the Soil and Water “Our office believes the next gen- vice, and support to the membership Ag PTECH, a PTECH school with Conservation Districts in Montgomery eration is the future of agriculture,” in their efforts to improve the quality an emphasis on Agricultural Studies and Fulton counties. The students plan to said Julicia Godbout, the agriculture of education and leadership in New and Environmental Sciences, located grow a variety of fruits and vegetables. economic development coordinator York State schools. SAANYS is af- in St. Johnsville where students can The Soil and Water Conservation for the Montgomery County Soil and filiated with the National Association choose from nine Associate’s degrees Districts in Montgomery and Fulton Water Conservation District. “The of Elementary School Principals from SUNY Cobleskill counties partnered to apply for fund- benefit of this is that it gets students out (NAESP) and the National Association (Facebook: HFM Ag PTECH, ing for the project from the New York of the classroom and gets them getting of Secondary School Principals www.hfmboces.org/programs-ser- State Soil and Water Conservation their hands dirty, doing it themselves (NASSP). vices/agptech/). Committee, which recently approved and learning.”

Ag PTECH students unload delivery of their high tunnel greenhouse on the school grounds in St. Johnsville. 24 Newsline May, 2018