albany-colonie regional chamber of commerce March ’11

Evolution and enterprise Businesses evolve with time and enjoy benefits of keen vision Michael Brooks and James Sidford, Austin & Co. Inc.

Silver anniversary celebration Women's Business Council celebrates 25 years

albany-colonie regional chamber of commerce We are proud to support the Albany-Colonie Chamber’s tribute to Don Led Duke, a man who always shined bright in our lives. Don’s leadership as a business owner, family man, community advocate and a client was unmatched and his spirit will continue to inspire us for many years to come. The partners and families of Teal, Becker & Chiaramonte, CPAs, P.C. express our deepest sympathies to the Led Duke family, as well as Don’s many friends, long time business partners and to his employees. We extend our heart-filled condolences to the entire BBL community. My Plan. My Bank. My Success.

Accomplish more with your plans and NBT Bank.

Everyone has plans. It’s how you turn your plans into pro ts that sets you apart. At NBT Bank, we’ve been helping businesses turn plans into pro ts for over 150 years. Our experienced and responsive bankers are ready to work for you and deliver the sophisticated nancial services you need to make your business success a reality. ­ at’s what sets us apart. It’s your business. We’re just here to help you make the most of your success. To start your great banking relationship today, call: Regional Commercial Banking Manager David Krupski, 518.437.4117 Regional Manager Michael Bowker, 518.587.0330

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Member FDIC

NBT_BizAd_7.5x10_(1,2,3).indd 2 2/14/11 12:20 PM Where people get better at life. For 69 years, the Center for Disability Services has been the place to turn to for innovative services and expert care for individuals with disabilities and chronic medical conditions in New York’s Capital Region and Tech Valley. Center for Disability Services and Tech Valley are places “where people get better at life.” Discover more about our services by visiting www.cfdsny.org

314 South Manning Boulevard Albany, New York 12208 518-437-5700 www.cfdsny.org

Some of the many programs & services the Center provides: • Children/Education Services • Outpatient Behavioral Health • Th e Family Group, Inc. • Adult Services Services Support for families • Residential Services • Medical/Health Services • Commercial Services • Respite Services • Dental Services • St. Margaret’s Center Pediatric skilled nursing facility • Specialized Clinical Services • Service Coordination • Upstate Rehab Products • Therapy Services • Transportation Where albany-colonie regional chamber of commerce Contents Chamber Mission: Be a catalyst for growth and prosperity for our members and the Capital Region by providing leadership, advocacy and services. a publication of the people Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce

get better albany-colonie regional chamber of commerce at life. Chamber Chairman Alan J. Krafchin For 69 years, the Center for Center for Disability Services Disability Services has been the Vice Chairman place to turn to for innovative Andrew J. Matonak services and expert care for Hudson Valley Community College individuals with disabilities and President and CEO › Cover Story | Evolution and enterprise | 16 Mark N. Eagan, CCE chronic medical conditions in 518.431.1424 New York’s Capital Region and [email protected] Tech Valley. Visions Editor Paul J. Quirini › Features March ’11 › SPotlight Center for Disability Services and 518.431.1451 [email protected] 9 Chamber to honor 20 Chamber offers fourth 6 111th Annual Dinner Tech Valley are places “where Walter Robb, Paula China trip in October The Chamber’s Annual people get better at life.” Graphic Designer Kara L. O’Brien Stopera and Donald Visit will take travelers Dinner is the region’s 518.431.1415 Led Duke to Beijing, Shanghai, premiere business event, Discover more about our services [email protected] Awards to be presented Tian An Men Square and attended by nearly 1,000 by visiting www.cfdsny.org March 10 at 111th Annual Great Wall Tech Valley business Printing Fort Orange Press Dinner 22 Chamber’s Energy executives and civic SM leaders. Feature Photographer 11 Prescription for Alliance program Colleen Brescia success reliably saves Marra’s Pharmacy members money Visions Advertising 518.431.1400 receives 2011 Spirit of Take advantage of Cohoes Award numerous benefits 13 Silver anniversary available through group celebration energy buying program Women’s Business 30 Apply today for Chamber Office: Council marks 25 years Leadership Tech Valley 314 South Manning Boulevard Five Computer Drive South Class of 2012 Albany, New York 12208 Albany, NY 12205-1608 Deadline for applications 518.431.1400 | acchamber.org | techvalley.org 518-437-5700 is May 13 Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce, www.cfdsny.org the Business Services Corporation and their representatives, employees and agents are held harmless from any claim, demand, liability or action on account of or in any way arising out of › In Every Issue Some of the many programs & services the Center provides: the client’s advertising, products and services, or its participation in Visions. 6 Chamber calendar 28 Member happenings 32 Viewpoint © Visions 2011. of events Richard Kotlow • Children/Education Services • Outpatient Behavioral Health • Th e Family Group, Inc. 31 On the scene Chief Executive Officer • Adult Services Services Support for families 19 New Chamber Visions Magazine is printed on investors UHY Advisors NY, Inc. • Residential Services • Medical/Health Services • Commercial Services Recycled Paper • Respite Services • Dental Services • St. Margaret’s Center Pediatric skilled nursing facility • Specialized Clinical Services • Service Coordination • Upstate Rehab Products For more information on advertising in • Therapy Services • Transportation Visions, view the Media Kit at acchamber.org/visions.aspx. March 2011 | VISIONS | 3 Create Something Original. Because there’s more to being original than being different. Because authenticity comes from insight, not recycled action plans. Because standing out from the competition starts with standing up to the status quo. Independent. Employee owned. No titles. No offices. If you’re ready to tear up the templates and start collaborating in full color, call Ed Mitzen at 518.488.8304 or experience our website at fingerpaintmarketing.com.

Turner410_Dreamer_visions_Turner_DreamerAD_visions7.5x4.751898_FPM_PrintAd_Visions_7.5x4.75.indd 1 4/29/10 9:20 AM Page 1 1/11/11 2:20 PM

A successful person is a dreamer whom someone believed in.

Turner Construction is proud to work alongside companies and individuals that share our belief in supporting the local community. We take pride in our commitment to the Capital Region and are inspired by the great people who live and work here. Turner is building the future of the Capital Region. Let us help build yours. To learn more visit www.turnerconstruction.com/albany.

ALBANY: (518)432-0277 • BUFFALO: (716)853-1900 • SYRACUSE: (315)701-3047

4 | acchamber.org | techvalley.org Chamber Board of Directors Chair’s Perspective Officers

Chair of the Board Alan J. Krafchin* Center for Disability Services Vice Chair Andrew J. Matonak* Chamber strength lies Hudson Valley Community College

President and CEO Mark N. Eagan, CCE* Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce in members’ commitment

Immediate Past Chair J. Kenneth Desmond* The Desmond Hotel & Conference Center

Chair, Finance Kevin J. McCoy* Marvin & Company, CPAs, PC

Secretary I. Norman Massry* Tri City Rentals Any member organization is only as strong as its members, and that certainly holds true for the Albany-Colonie Regional Directors Chamber of Commerce. Dawn Abbuhl Suzanne O’Connor The Chamber is comprised of nearly 2,400 businesses and Principal Chair, Women’s Repeat Business Systems Business Council organizations of all types and sizes and from throughout the Associate Director of Capital Region. Thomas L. Amell Career Center Regional President Siena College The Chamber is a catalyst organization to advance regional First Niagara Bank Ryan O’Donnell economic prosperity. We achieve this through focused goals and John D. Bennett, MD* CEO by leveraging the talents and resources of member businesses to President and CEO BullEx Digital Safety CDPHP create an environment for growth and success. The Chamber offers leadership, advocacy, Thomas Quick Sonny Bonacio* Senior Human programs and resources, all geared to build regional vitality. President Resources Manager Bonacio Construction, Inc. GE Energy Each month in Visions, we list the names of new Chamber member investors and welcome them to our organization. We also recognize Chamber members celebrating their Mark J. Breslin Mel Quinlan Vice President and Chair, Business anniversary month of Chamber membership, from five years to 50 years and beyond. General Manager Council of Cohoes Turner Construction Co. Vice President We appreciate their support of the Chamber, and we encourage you, in turn, to Oberlander Group Samuel J. Caldwell, Jr. support these new and long-time members with your business. Vice President Gregory T. Rinckey Verizon Managing Partner In this month’s issue of Visions, we highlight several long-time Chamber members and Tully Rinckey PLLC detail some of the ways in which they have evolved over the years. Robert Gaito Vice Chairman Andrew C. Rose Each business or organization has updated its approach as times have changed, and SolutionSet Managing Partner Nixon Peabody, LLP each one values its Chamber membership for the networking events, advocacy initiatives Stephen R. Janack Vice President, Marketing Jan Smith* and business growth opportunities that Chamber membership provides. Learn more about and Communications Principal how these Chamber members have thrived through hard work and keen vision. College of Nanoscale Castle Rock Ranch Science and Engineering Group, LLC With Governor Cuomo reaffirming his commitment to energy research and Michael T. Keegan* Kay Stafford development in both his State of the State and his 2011-12 Executive Budget, the potential President President and CEO benefits, both economic and environmental, are significant. M&T Bank CMA Consulting, Inc. Steve Klein Jeffrey D. Stone Visions recently sat down with Senator George Maziarz, Chairman of the New York Chair, Nonprofit President of Capital State Senate Energy Committee, for a one-on-one interview to discuss the energy-related Business Council Region NY District Associate Executive KeyBank initiatives that could impact New Yorkers. Read about the ways in which state leaders are Director seeking to grow New York’s economy through expansion of the energy sector. Schenectady ARC Richard Thompson Chair, Capital As always, thank you for reading Visions and for your continued support of the Jeffrey M. Levy Chamber Foundation Regional President Dean of Math and Science Chamber. • NBT Bank College of Saint Rose Paul Lundberg Marcia J. White* Chair, Business President and Services Corporation Executive Director Partner SPAC Aurora, Inc. Gail Wilson-Giarratano Timothy McCann President and CEO Chief Operating Officer Girls Inc. of the Best Cleaners Capital Region Alan J. Krafchin Philip Morris Center for Disability Services CEO Chairman of the Board Proctor’s Theater Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce Kevin O’Connor* Legal Counsel CEO Kara Conway Love* Tech Valley Law Office of Communications Kara Conway Love * Denotes Executive Committee member March 2011 | VISIONS | 5 Thu 111th Annual Dinner Wed Solo Entrepreneurs Forum: › March 10 16 Lessons in Leadership How to Save Costs by Presented by: Small Business Council Tue Corporate Sponsor: Adopting Energy-Efficient 1 Practices

Presented by: Colonie Business Council Corporate sponsor: Join other solo entrepreneurs for an open roundtable discussion. At this roundtable, Alan I. Stern from Stage Right Organizational Development will facilitate discussion on how effective business people — whether in solo practice or within Your business can save money and be more efficient organizations — can recognize the behaviors they with green practices. Our panel of experts will share need and learn how to use them to lead, manage success stories and practices that have helped their Sponsor: and conduct business to achieve the results they businesses streamline their operations. Panelists want. You will also have the opportunity to raise include: Laura Poltynski, National Grid’s head of questions and propose ideas you have as a solo energy efficiency for the eastern division; Vince entrepreneur. The Chamber’s Annual Dinner is the region’s Poirer, from Waste Management of NY. 7:30 – 8am networking and breakfast; premiere business event, attended by nearly 1,000 8 – 9am program / Chamber office 7:30 – 8am networking and breakfast; Tech Valley business executives and civic leaders. 8 – 9am program / Chamber Office / Cost: $6 This promises to be an evening you will not want to miss, featuring unmatched networking opportunities Thu Complying with Foreign Tue Business Success Seminar: and an outstanding program. Walter Robb, Ph.D., Trade Standards How to Prepare for Growth retired General Electric executive, will be awarded 17 the Envoy Salute for his vision, leadership and 8 and Higher Profits in 2011 impact on the economic vitality of the region. Paula Presented by: Tech Valley Global Business Network Stopera, president and CEO of CAP COM Federal Presented by: Small Business Council Credit Union will receive the Arthur R. Kapner Spirit Presenters Mark Lewis, from the U.S. Department Corporate Sponsor: of the Chamber Award for her dedicated support of Commerce, and Jeff DePree, from Halcyon of and service to the Chamber. In addition, a Development, will define the various foreign trade special tribute will honor the late Donald Led Duke, standards, raise awareness of compliance issues chairman of BBL Companies. and provide follow-up resources for an in-depth look 5:30 – 8:30pm / Empire State Plaza Convention at individual company situations. 2011 promises to be a good year for business Center, Albany / Cost: Individual ticket: $165 7:30 – 8am check-in and networking; growth. Are you prepared to grab the opportunities Table of ten: $1,650 8am program / Chamber office / Cost: $20 when they come along? Are you proactively looking for ways to grow your business? Kate Baker, business advisor for Small Business Development Tue Net “Work-it”! Thr New IRS Regulations for Center, will share valuable information on doing Speed Networking Nonprofits: How Will Your more with less, avoiding pitfalls and setting priorities 15 Workshop 17 Organization be Affected? for the year. 7:30 – 8am networking and breakfast; Presented by: Women’s Business Council Presented by: Tech Valley Nonprofit Business Council 8 – 9am program / Chamber office / Cost: $10 Corporate Sponsor: Corporate Sponsor:

Join us for an entire program full of networking. The government is going to be more focused We will have speed networking, WBC style! This than ever on new funding sources in 2011, and workshop is a great way to meet the other members, converting nonprofits to tax-paying entities is share your expertise and promote your business, always going to be a target. Don’t miss this panel organization or yourself. Come with your business discussion with experts in law, taxation and health cards and 30-second infomercial ready. No care to update you on what you should know, wallflowers here! Try a fun, fast-paced way to foster when you should know it and how to remain in business relationships. This timed event allows compliance. They will discuss such issues as: state you to supersize your business contacts in just one registration and filing requirements, who needs to morning! use 1099s, and compliance issues required under 7:30 – 8am networking and breakfast; Health Care Reform. 8 – 9am program / The Century House, 11:30am networking and lunch; noon program 997 New Loudon Road, Latham /Cost: $15 Italian American Community Center, 257 Washington Avenue, Albany / Cost: $20

6 | acchamber.org | techvalley.org Calendar of events

Wed China 2011 Tue Internal Messaging Informational Session › April Mishaps: 23 19 How to Communicate China is the adventure of a lifetime, and based upon Positively Within and Maximize Your Membership the overwhelming response to its three previous trips, Wed Outside Your Organization the Chamber of Commerce is offering its fourth nine- day, all inclusive trip this October ­— including optional 6 Presented by: Women’s Business Council excursions to the Terra-Cotta Warriors and Elephant Corporate Sponsor: Would you use a tool for your business before Trunk Hill. Join us for this informational session and reading the instructions? You’re part of the learn more about the full itinerary and other detailed Chamber, a critical instrument in your business information regarding the trip. toolbox. The Maximize Your Membership program 5:30 – 7pm / Chamber office is your set of instructions for utilizing your Chamber How do you make sure everyone in your organization membership to grow your business. Meet Chamber is getting the same message at the same time? Tue The Puck Drops Here –– staff, connect with other members, ask your What role does social media play in internal Chamber Night With the questions and learn how to make your Chamber communications? When the message isn’t a good 29 Albany Devils membership work for your business. Learn the message, how do you share it? How do you tame the basics to promote your business with your Albany. rumor mill? Keep the message positive across your Join your peers from the Albany-Colonie Regional com listing. social media outlets…don’t garble your company’s Chamber and network with members from the 7:45am check-in and networking; message in a Facebook post. This program will Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce, Guilderland 8 - 9am program / Chamber office help you to choose the proper tools for the proper Chamber of Commerce, Rensselaer County Regional message. Chamber of Commerce, Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, the Chamber of Schenectady County Thu Grants & Grant Writing: 11:30am networking and lunch, noon – 1pm and The Chamber of Southern Saratoga County. Getting to the Heart of the program / The Century House, 997 New Loudon Road, Latham / Cost: $20 Then, stick around and watch the Albany Devils face 14 Matter off against the Adirondack Phantoms in an exciting matchup of AHL rivals. Presented by: Tech Valley Nonprofit Business Council Corporate Sponsor: To register, call John Patterson at 518.433.8457 4pm doors open / 4:30pm special speaker and light hors d’oeuvres / 7pm game / Times Union Center, 51 South Pearl Street Join this panel discussion of area experts to gain an overview of the grant funding process and Enhance Your Online discuss examples of successful grants and the Wed three important factors in effectively obtaining Presence With Your funds. During this workshop, you will obtain tips 30 Free Chamber Internet and tools to build benchmarks, expected outcomes Marketing Package and performance targets. Presented by: Sara Mannix, President of Mannix 7:30am check-in & networking; 8am program Marketing, Inc. and Albany.com NYS Nurses Association, 11 Cornell Road, Latham Cost: $15 The Chamber recently announced a new benefit to our members in collaboration with Mannix Marketing to advertise your business with a free business listing on Albany.com. Learn how to promote your business events, coupons, specials, press releases and more — for free — through your new Albany.com account. 11:30 check-in and lunch; noon - 1pm program Chamber office / Cost: $8 albany-colonie regional chamber of commerce

Please register and pay by credit card online at acchamber.org/events.aspx or make checks payable to the Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce and mail to: Five Computer Drive South, Albany, NY 12205. Pre-payment is required. CANCELLATIONS MUST BE MADE 48 HOURS IN ADVANCE. Walk- ins will be charged an additional $5 fee. All events are for Chamber members only unless otherwise specified. For more information on councils and committees, call 518.431.1400.

The Chamber office is located at Five Computer Drive South, Albany, NY 12205-1608 P 518.431.1400 | F 518.431.1402

March 2011 | VISIONS | 7 Dr. James Myers, director of the Computational 8 | acchamber.org | techvalley.org Center for Nanotechnology Innovations (CCNI) Walter Robb, Paula Stopera and Don Led Duke to be honored Awards to be presented March 10 at 111th Annual Dinner

The Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of the inspiration behind this title, and for Thomas Whalen (1994) and Donald Commerce will bestow its highest honors years I carried the Tech Valley logo on my McKay (1993). at its 111th Annual Dinner on Thursday, personal business card,” Robb said. “To Stopera will receive the Arthur R. March 10 at the Empire State Plaza now be honored by this leading institution Kapner Spirit of the Chamber Award, Convention Center in Albany, when it is an appreciated reward, and I am which is presented to an individual whose recognizes Walter L. Robb, Ph.D., retired prepared to redouble my efforts to promote dedicated service has enhanced the senior executive for General Electric, Tech Valley.” Chamber. The award is named in honor of Paula A. Stopera, president and CEO of Arthur R. Kapner, who passed away in 2004 CAP COM Federal Credit Union, and after five decades of volunteer service to the the late Donald Led Duke, founder and “ organization, including serving as chairman chairman of BBL Companies. The Chamber is pleased to honor of the Chamber’s board of directors. “The Chamber is pleased to honor Walt Robb, Paula Stopera and “I am extremely grateful to be Walt Robb, Paula Stopera and Don Led Don Led Duke for their outstanding receiving the Arthur R. Kapner Spirit Duke for their outstanding contributions to contributions to our region. of the Chamber Award this year,” our region,” said Alan Krafchin, president Stopera said. “When I heard the news, and CEO of the Center for Disability I was overwhelmed and very excited. Services and chair of the Chamber’s I understand that Arthur Kapner was board of directors. “These individuals have ” Previous recipients of the Envoy a leader in our community who had exemplified unwavering commitment and Salute include: Alain E. Kaloyeros, Ph.D. endless energy and a willingness to help unparalleled business and civic leadership.” (2010), The Golub Family (2009), William anyone who was looking for guidance for Robb will receive the Envoy Salute, Kennedy (2008), Jack Aernecke (2007), their business or career. I understand his which recognizes an individual whose Joseph L. Bruno (2006), Carl E. Touhey personality and energy were contagious. vision, leadership and contributions have (2005), Richard C. Liebich (2004), Dr. These are the same traits and philosophy made a positive and significant impact on Karen R. Hitchcock (2003), Wallace Altes that we look for from our Chamber in the economic vitality of the region. (2002), Alan Goldberg (2001), Dr. Roland helping our businesses to grow and thrive. “From the beginning of Tech Valley, I Schmitt (1999), John Egan (1998), Joseph have thanked and applauded the Albany- Bulmer/Louis Vaccaro (1997), Fred Field continued on page 10 Colonie Regional Chamber for being (1996), Matt and Phoebe Bender (1995),

March 2011 | VISIONS | 9 I am certainly humbled to be recognized in such a manner and follow the footsteps of such a great leader and those who have been honored before me.” Previous recipients of the Spirit of the Chamber Award include: Nehme Frangie (2010), John Murray (2009), Robert Wakeman (2008), Jan Smith (2007), Linda Hill (2006), Karl Johnson (2005), Richard Kotlow (2004), James Howe (2003), Kevin McCoy (2001), Ken Colloton (1999), Dean Rueckert (1998), Pamela Sawchuk Brown (1997), William Clay (1996), Gary Smith (1995), Mike Hickey (1994), Larry Miller (1993) and Charlotte Buchanan (1992). In addition, a special tribute will honor the late Donald Led Duke for his substantial contributions to the Capital Region. “The kindness and warmth from the Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber have been very meaningful to our family and we thank them for their support and recognition of Don’s lifelong efforts to make our region a better place to live,” said Mary Louise (Chick) Led Duke. Each year, 1,000 members of the region’s business community participate in the Annual Dinner, a black tie affair that beings with a 5:30pm cocktail reception and is followed by a brief program and dinner at 7pm. Online registration for the Chamber’s 111th Annual Dinner is open on the Chamber’s Web site, www.acchamber.org. The Chamber thanks NBT Bank, the major sponsor of the Annual Dinner, and Working Pictures Inc., the video sponsor. •

Members offer reduced rates on services leading up to Annual Dinner The Chamber’s 111th Annual Dinner is almost here, and several Chamber members are offering discounts on a variety of services that attendees may need as they prepare for this year’s event on Thursday, March 10 at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center. The following discounts are available to Chamber members: > Tuxedo rental Waldorf Tuxedo Company Inc. will offer $15 off a tuxedo rental when you mention theA lbany-Colonie Regional Chamber’s Annual Dinner. Call 518.449.5011. TUXEGO will offer $59.95 on all classic collection tuxedos or $25 off any other regular priced style when you mention theA lbany- Colonie Regional Chamber’s Annual Dinner. Call 518.783.0260 > Tuxedo pick-up and return At Your Service will provide tuxedo pick-up one way for $20 or pick-up and drop off for $30.I n addition, ladies’ gown pick-up and delivery at the dry cleaners or storage is available for $30. Call 518.449.2420.

10 | acchamber.org | techvalley.org Prescription for success Marra’s Pharmacy receives 2011 Spirit of Cohoes Award

James Marra, founder of Marra’s Pharmacy

Barbara McDonald is a pharmacist by idea of a female were referring them trade and a Cohoesier at heart. For her pharmacist was elsewhere. I knew that dedication to her profession and her unusual for some we had done the right commitment to the Spindle City, she and customers. thing by getting into Marra’s Pharmacy, Inc. have been “People would this business to serve selected as the recipients of the 2011 Spirit call, I’d answer, our customers’ needs.” of Cohoes Award. and they’d say. ‘I’d Marra’s was “It’s thrilling to receive this award,” like to speak to the destroyed by fire in McDonald said. “I try to be an ambassador pharmacist.’ Or 1988, but the pharmacy for the City of Cohoes, and it’s meant they’d ask to speak to rebuilt and grew its an awful lot to me to work at Marra’s a man or someone business further. “That’s Pharmacy because it has been my life.” older,” McDonald when we expanded our The Spirit of Cohoes Award is said. “But I found a gift shop,” McDonald presented by the Chamber’s Business job I really like, so said. “There were Council of Cohoes to a Cohoes-based I feel like I’ve never other gift stores, but worked a day in the whole environment business that embodies the “community The current staff of Marra’s Pharmacy that cares” in support of its employees and my life.” had changed. We’ve its commitment to the Spindle City through Today, under the leadership of always had Hallmark cards, gifts, fragrances its community involvement. Barbara McDonald and her son, Cohoes and cosmetics, but you have to respond to Mayor John McDonald III –– both trends occurring in your environment and McDonald’s father, James Marra, your business.” established Marra’s Pharmacy in 1931, registered pharmacists –– the Marra and was committed to one simple, sincere family remains dedicated to James Marra’s In terms of community involvement, mission: to loyally serve the patient and the mission. They fill prescriptions, answer Marra’s supports numerous organizations, community. questions and provide customer service including the Cohoes Community Center by that’s personal, accurate and efficient. raising money for its day care program. The McDonald attended the University pharmacy also supports Cohoes Music Hall, of Connecticut to pursue a degree in Adapt and expand and McDonald herself serves as president pharmacy, but she was in the minority in Marra’s Pharmacy has seen its share of the Cohoes High School Alumni terms of her education and career choice. of change over the years, and Barbara Association, helping to raise funds and “When I went to study pharmacy, it was McDonald has been there to witness most organize reunions for the school’s graduates. mainly an occupation for men,” she said. of it. “I feel like I’ve been a professional “My pharmacy class was predominantly “Every change has been a response cheerleader for the City of Cohoes, men. I went to college in a man’s world and to a need,” she said. “Thirty years ago, promoting Cohoes businesses when I’m out worked in a man’s profession.” we decided to get into the medical and about. I’m out there boasting about other She began working at Marra’s equipment business. Our customers needed businesses in the community,” she said. • Pharmacy in 1958, but even then, the crutches, canes and wheelchairs, but we

March 2011 | VISIONS | 11

Member anniversaries

We appreciate our members’ support. Thank you to the following Chamber members celebrating anniversaries in March.

25 years or more Albany Memorial Hospital Bond, Schoeneck & King, PLLC Silveranniversary celebration Capital EAP Family & Children’s Service of the Capital Region, Inc. Galesi Group Kemp’s Sporting Goods, Inc. New York Life Insurance Company Ruch Distributors, Inc. The Jamison Group Campito Plumbing & Heating Inc. March of Dimes AflacN ew York

20 years Robert J. Schreiner & Co., CPAs, PC

15 years The Community Preservation Corporation Richard R. Stephens, Consulting Engineer, PC

10 years Alfonso Consultants

5 years Williams PlasticS urgery Specialists 3t Architects At Your Service Hall And Associates Portside Distributors, Inc. 74 State Agrochem, Inc. Carrow Real Estate Services, LLC

12 | acchamber.org | techvalley.org Silveranniversary celebration

Women’s Business Council celebrates 25 years WBC 2010 Women of Excellence

It began in 1986 with six women sitting Anniversary. More details will around a dining room table, discussing follow in the coming months. ways to increase networking opportunities During its history, and promote career development for their the WBC has developed peers. programs that provide Twenty-five years later, the Women’s opportunities for women Business Council (WBC) of the Albany- to network and share their Colonie Regional Chamber remains expertise with each other committed to that founding mission, and all Chamber members promoting the full participation and and to address the unique leadership of women at all levels in the challenges and issues of workplace in Tech Valley’s economic women in business. development, community and government. Mazie McMahon, Photo by Joan Heffler “We have helped each other build immediate past WBC chair personal and professional relationships,” and marketing director for The Bonadio women all over the Capital said Suzanne O’Connor, WBC chair and Group, credits its founding members with Region. Not only do I have great personal associate director of the Siena College laying the groundwork for the council and relationships, I have gotten business Career Center. “Whenever I see former its subsequent members, past and present, through my involvement. It has also WBC chairs and tell them how many with making the WBC a vibrant, active raised my awareness of different nonprofit people attend our meetings today, they group. organizations throughout the community.” can’t believe it. The WBC has grown and “You had these women sitting around only gotten stronger.” O’Connor, likewise, has experienced a table trying to put something together, the benefits of WBC participation. “I see The WBC will highlight its 25- and look at where we are now,” she said. it as a tremendously valuable networking year history during each of its monthly “It’s a tremendous effort by so many resource and have met some women who programs throughout 2011, culminating women over the years to get us where we have not only helped me professionally, with an event this fall to celebrate its Silver are today.” but also helped Siena College by hiring From six people in 1986 to more interns, providing networking connections than 500 members in 2011, the WBC and helping students learn about a certain WBC 2010 Symposium Excellence has had a significant impact on women in career,” she said. Photo by Joan Heffler, Creative Expressions Photography, business across Tech Valley, collectively and Milestone event www.joanheffler.com individually. Kara Conway Love, principal of Kara “For me, personally, Conway Love, Esq., was WBC chair the WBC has helped me when the council celebrated its 20th in my career,” McMahon anniversary in 2006, and she believes said. “I started out on the 25th anniversary is cause for further the program committee, celebration. and the WBC helped introduce me to a whole “A lot of our members have relied new group of professional on each other as sources of ideas and

March 2011 | VISIONS | 13 women who have received it, and it’s a and learn more about various topics, and great honor just to be nominated. Plus, people see a lot of reward from the time the WBC has benefited because award they invest.” recipients have become involved in the Beyond the monthly programs and council, if they weren’t already.” major events, such as the Women of In 2002, the WBC launched Excellence Awards and the Symposium on its Adopted Nonprofit program as Excellence, the WBC serves as a valuable a means to educate and increase resource for women to share valuable awareness of local nonprofit advice that will help them in their careers, agencies, and to provide volunteer according to Maureen O’Brien-Thornton, opportunities for WBC members. former WBC chair and executive director Its adopted nonprofit for 2011 is the for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Interfaith Partnership for the Society-Upstate New York Chapter. Homeless; as is its tradition, the “We are a group of women that WBC seeks members to donate raffle mentors other women, especially younger items for each program, raising women,” she said. “Things have changed funds for the Interfaith Partnership quite drastically in the workplace over the for the Homeless, in the process. years, but there are still a lot of things that “Our Adopted Nonprofit remain the same. The glass ceiling, unequal program has been very successful, pay and sexism still exist. There are issues WBC 2009 Women of Excellence because we’ve increased volunteer women have to deal with and work around Photo by Joan Heffler opportunities our members can engage to accomplish their goals, and the WBC support,” she said. “I’ve developed in and raised awareness of the nonprofit gives them a comfortable arena in which to friendships and see members socially and itself,” McMahon said. “Our members do that. businesswise outside of the WBC. We’ve are now very involved in these nonprofit “The growth of the WBC is a seen a lot of professional growth and organizations through their work. We testament to the women who have really business success, and there’s also been a lot typically raise several thousand dollars become engaged in the council’s work. of mentoring and bringing along potential for each nonprofit, which is quite a bit, There are a lot of advantages for women new leaders of the WBC.” especially for smaller nonprofits, in this to meet other women who will be business economy.” The WBC keeps its programming contacts throughout their careers, no focused on business and provides insight on The Symposium on Excellence is yet matter where they are, in this region or ways for women in business to support each another program that provides networking beyond.” • other. “We’re an all-encompassing council, and educational opportunities for members. Last October, Christopher WBC 2010 Women of Excellence “Unplugged” with women from for-profit businesses, Photo by Joan Heffler nonprofit organizations and all walks of Flett, a reformed Alpha Male life,” Conway Love said. “We try to develop women’s leadership expert and programming that everyone will grow from professional business coach, and appreciate.” and Ainslie Waldron, one of the world’s smartest women Since 1992, the WBC has presented and a renowned business more than 250 Women of Excellence consultant, were the event’s Awards to women who have achieved two internationally recognized success in their professional careers and speakers. dedicated themselves to community service, including more than 100 Awards “Symposium started as in 2000 alone during the Chamber’s 100th more of an opportunity to anniversary year. spend more in-depth time on education and career “The Women of Excellence Awards enhancing workshops,” luncheon has been a successful event, and Conway Love said. “It’s a it’s a prestigious award to receive,” Conway great opportunity to enhance Love said. “It’s a great tribute to the various

14 | acchamber.org | techvalley.org Learn how to grow your business through information, please contact Louise Aitcheson, CEG’s program director for Business Development, at [email protected] international markets or at 518.465.8975, ext. 229. ExportNY has been available to manufacturers throughout upstate New ExportNY Program begins March 25 York since the late 1990s, thanks to the work of the Regional Technology Development Centers, such as CEG, ExportNY, a six-month program of knowledge, and to develop a game plan for coupled with the support of National classroom education and training focused entering or expanding into new markets, Grid and Empire State Development. on helping manufacturers develop their countries or hemispheres,” said F. Michael The Tech Valley Global Business businesses globally, is accepting applicants Tucker, president and CEO of CEG. for its upcoming course. Network is a partnership aligning economic The investment is just $600 per development organizations in the area The program enables participants person, which covers course materials and around the single issue of helping educate to work ON their business in a structured refreshments. Classes begin on March 25 and provide networking opportunities for fashion, as opposed to working IN their and conclude on August 12 and are held area companies interested in global trade. business. ExportNY is being promoted by from 8am to 2pm each month. Applications TVGBN partners include: the the Tech Valley Global Business Network are due by March 18, and all participants Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber, CEG, and coordinated by the Center for must attend all six sessions. Economic Growth (CEG). the Chamber of Schenectady County, To register for the 2011 ExportNY the Rensselaer County Chamber of The program content is presented program, please complete the Commerce, the Saratoga County Chamber by Jerry Shaye, director of International online application at http://tinyurl. of Commerce and the Southern Saratoga Trade Development with Empire State com/2011ExportNY. For more County Chamber of Commerce. • Development. In addition, industry specific experts are woven into each month’s content as guest speakers. Session topics include: Session 1: Why export? What does our international sales system need to look like? Session 2: Market definition and trade partner qualification Session 3: How to collect on foreign sales Session 4: Foreign shipping and standards compliance Session 5: Legal issues related to global business Can your investments weather the storms? Session 6: Alternative market entry Successful investing requires a long-term plan – so make sure strategies your investment portfolio is built on bedrock. We use our “There are almost limitless own independent, time-tested and reliable research process opportunities for growth for businesses in to find financially strong, quality businesses. the international marketplace,” said Mark We believe you can protect and grow your assets. Eagan, president and CEO of the Albany- Investments designed to last. Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce. “The ExportNY Program is a valuable resource to provide businesses with the All investing involves risk including the possible information they need to grow and prosper loss of principal. Before investing, carefully read the fund’s prospectus which includes investment objec- on the global stage.” Separately managed portfolios and mutual funds. tives, risks, charges, expenses and other information “Even if you already export, this is a about the fund. Please call us at 800-932-3271 FAM Funds are distributed by Fenimore Securities, Inc. or visit famfunds.com for a prospectus. great framework in which to deepen your Member FINRA/SIPC bench strength in international business Cobleskill, NY • (800) 932-327 • famfunds.com • Stop by for a visit.

March 2011 | VISIONS | 15

Evolution and enterprise

Businesses evolve with time and enjoy benefits of keen vision

What began as a small property and for us now is our human resources and casualty agency in downtown Albany the skilled people that we have. You come with many local clients has evolved into a to really treasure someone who has the company with multiple offices and a client right skill set, and the ESOP is designed to base that covers New York State, according reward longevity. That’s a dynamic shift to James Sidford, RHU, president of Austin from 50 or 75 years ago.” & Co., Inc. The employee-owned structure “Our clients benefit from a full is designed to encourage internal range of insurance services, including perpetuation instead of a sale, Brooks employee benefits, property and casualty, pointed out, as several firms similar to risk management and human resource Austin & Co., Inc. have disappeared consulting,” he said. “Our client list because they sold to much larger includes education institutions, social conglomerates and often lost their local service agencies, physicians’ groups and law presence in doing so. firms.” “Our model rewards longevity and Led by Charles Liddle during the those employees who remain for the long 1970s, Austin & Co., Inc. was one of the term,” he said. “It also makes internal first employee-owned companies in the perpetuation more appealing as opposed to region, and the success of the employee an outside sale.” stock ownership plan (ESOP) has been Another way in which the agency mutually beneficial to both clients and has adapted over the years is by shifting its employees. focus as its niches have changed. “We’re an employee-owned “Over the years, Austin’s leadership company, so everybody in the company has successfully adapted to change and is a stockholder, which certainly helps remained ahead of the competition,” with customer service and attention to Sidford said. “To maintain growth detail,” Sidford said. “The ESOP has been James Sidford and Michael Brooks, Austin & Co. Inc. opportunities, the company focused on around for more than 30 years, and we expanding niches and parallel market saw that shift coming. We wanted to retain space, including the addition of our human employees, and sharing in ownership of the daptability is essential to longevity in resource consulting department more than A agency was paramount to doing that.” business, and several long-time members four years ago and, most recently, a health of the Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber The ESOP has made it easier for insurance consortium. This model provides have demonstrated their flexibility over Austin & Co., Inc. to retain high-quality our clients with access to industry-specific the years by anticipating change and talent at a time when such qualified programs and services that offer unique implementing a new approach to the way insurance experts are dwindling in number, coverage options and cost savings, as well as they do business. according to Michael Brooks, executive vice a dedicated and expert service team. president. Here are profiles of four such long- “We have a terrific program for time Chamber members, and the ways in “Insurance is a very technical business. independent schools, and nonprofits and which each has evolved –– and thrived –– One dynamic that has changed is that there physicians’ groups are client niches, as well. with the times. used to be oceans of people locally with the These are all things we have developed and right credentials to work in a firm like this,” moved into to make sure that we remain Ensuring its place in history he said. “Large insurance carriers, whether competitive and provide to those niches.” Austin & Co., Inc. has been in business in property and casualty, or employee Brooks added, “We were proactive and for 158 years and grown to become one benefits, used to employee hundreds of developed niches. We find the generalist of the largest insurance agencies in the people locally. The most important capital model to be less successful, and having Capital Region. 16 | acchamber.org | techvalley.org

areas of influence and expertise are ways to “Customers asked if we sold hats Center, The Desmond Hotel and have a sustainable competitive advantage.” or pens, and the answer was always Conference Center, Teal Becker & Technology has transformed the way no. Distributors across the county were Chiaramonte CPA’s, Glen Sanders businesses operate, and the agency uses it leaving business on the table,” Martin Mansion, 677 Prime, Latham Ford and to respond to clients’ needs, Sidford noted. said. “Eventually, Safeguard started selling KeyBank. “We’ve see automation in our employee promotional products and corporate Technology has impacted Safeguard’s benefits program,” he said. “A lot of our clothing, and is now one of Advertising business very positively, but ordering clients want their employees to have access Specialty Institute’s (ASI) top companies. checks and paper products is different than to their benefits information 24/7, and We sell products that are unique and useful. ordering promotional products. “Customers we’ve certainly been able to respond to I like to find products that are different, want to see them, feel them and see how that. Technology has been important, and with applications that often work with a they hold up in the wash,” Martin said. we’re right on the edge of that.” campaign to show a return on investment. “Today, Safeguard does millions of Growth through gas You’re promoted dollars a year in promotional products. It is The change in focus for Noble Gas Safeguard has reinvented itself during probably our fastest-growing product line. Solutions, from welding supplies to its 60 years in business, evolving from Safeguard sells $70 million to $80 million gas distribution, grew out of necessity, checks and paper products to a full line annually in its check business and about according to J. David Mahoney, president of promotional products and corporate $150 million a year in total business.” and CEO. apparel. Checks are still a huge revenue stream “Change came about because of “I joined my father in July 1971, and for Safeguard, although the source of that changes in the industry,” he said. “In 1976, my sister and my brother joined in the business has changed somewhat. GE employed 28,000 people locally, and years since,” said Bill Martin, president. “Much of our business used to come they were doing a lot of fabricating and “But we’re not a family business. Safeguard from business professionals,” Martin welding. As manufacturing moved down is a major south and then company. We offshore, we are owned by were forced to a company reinvent who called Deluxe we are. We that does more realized that if than $1 billion we wanted to in business grow, we had annually. to diversify.” “We started out by One of those selling one- changes came write check in the form of systems, with the company’s the carbon new name; line behind the Noble Gas check. Over Solutions the years, as was formerly computers AWESCO, became Bill Martin, Safeguard which stood for popular, that Albany Welding product line evolved into computer forms said. “Now, a lot comes directly from Supply Company. “We hired a marketing and laser checks. Now, we do all sorts of banks. When they get a new customer, company to take a look at who we are and laser forms and any banking supplies you the bank or customer will call for checks. where we’re going,” Mahoney said. “We’re would need –– deposit slips, endorsement We have strong, loyal, mutually beneficial in the gas business and that’s where the stamps, tamper evident bags and nighttime relationships with banks.” opportunities are.” deposit bags.” Safeguard has more than 800,000 Noble Gas Solutions works with such The company is also a major force customers across the country. In addition clients as GlobalFoundries, the University in general printing, including statements, to promotional products and corporate at Albany, Rensselaer Polytechnic letterhead, envelopes and an entire four- apparel, business checks and other banking Institute, the New York State Department color print line. products, as well as the commercial printing of Health and AMRI, and is looking to Eventually, Safeguard began product line, Safeguard furnishes numerous expand its business even further. capitalizing on opportunities to expand medical and dental offices and hospitals “We still have this industrial piece, but beyond its traditional product line. The with patient filing systems. we also have this specialty piece. We’re not company branched out into promotional Among the local companies Safeguard a big player in the medical area, but we products 10 to 15 years ago, due to has worked with are Albany Medical want to be,” Mahoney said. “We’re looking increasing customer demand. Center, Rensselaer Polytechnic at whether or not it makes sense to do it. Institute, Saratoga Performing Arts Since November 12, when we unveiled our

March 2011 | VISIONS | 17

Spreading science strong health sciences component. We see continued growth in all of these areas, Growth and expansion have been the and we seek to increase our population by prescription for success at the Albany another 200-300 students.” College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, whose campus and curriculum The school will continue to support have evolved under the leadership of Dr. and expand research at its Pharmaceutical James Gozzo, president. Research Institute; its budget is currently $10 million, and Gozzo hopes that number “I’ve been here since 1998, but the will double within three years. college was founded in 1881,” he said. “For many years, we were a single, major “We’re always looking for new institution, and pharmacy was our sole programs and initiatives to be creative academic offering. When I joined the and forward looking,” he said. “We try to college, one of our efforts was to expand determine what medicine and health care J. David Mahoney, Noble Gas Solutions and diversify –– expand enrollments, will be like five to ten years from now and new name, the response we’ve received has increase the number of students and try and implement programs that address been great. We have the ability to grow introduce a number of health-related those needs.” outside the region, and with a name like academic programs. We’ve made progress, Pharmacy continues to evolve as a Noble Gas Solutions, companies know why but we still have a ways to go.” profession, moving into a setting where we’re here.” When Gozzo came to Albany, the each approach will be customized for In addition to a new product line school had one building on New Scotland the individual patient. “Drugs and drug and a new name, Noble Gas Solutions has Avenue; it had been its only campus since therapies will be designed and developed embraced total cylinder inventory bar-code 1930. Thanks to the generosity of Albany individually based upon the patient’s tracking Law School alumnus Marty Silverman, genomic status and health status,” Gozzo said. “Dr. Shaker Mousa, executive “Our industry started to look at bar- Albany College of Pharmacy and Health vice president and chairman of the coding in the mid 1990s,” he said. “We Sciences was able to move into the former Pharmaceutical Research Institute, is at made a decision that we would use all Christian Brothers Academy campus and the leading edge in that regard, developing means available to us to differentiate who expand its campus. therapies to enable clinicians to target we are, and bar coding was one of those. Enrollment has grown from 500 to therapies to specific parts of the body We embraced it in 1996. We have more more than 1,600 students, and there are They’re also looking to relate one’s genomic than 30,000 cylinders, and whether they’re now three campuses: Albany, where 90 position to adequate drug therapy delivery here or out to a vendor being filled, or out percent of its students are based; a satellite designing drugs.” of service waiting to be retested, there’s a campus in Colchester, VT, which offers cost associated with tracking them. a professional program for students with Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences also is looking to become “Whether they’re in Saratoga or baccalaureate degrees in the sciences; and a more global institution, Gozzo pointed downstate, we know where all of our the Pharmaceutical Research Institute out. “We’re seeing a great deal of interest cylinders are because of bar-code tracking. (PRI) in Rensselaer. in expanding, and our near-term objective That way, we can bill for it, get it off the The school offers a six-year, entry level is for every student to have the opportunity books, then give credit. Contractors will program, in which the first two years are to have at least one global experience,” inadvertently swap cylinders, and most pre-pharmacy, followed by four years of he said. “We want to enrich their overall people understand and appreciate what a professional pharmacy program. There educational experience, continue to we’re doing.” are also three baccalaureate programs, in grow and make a positive impact on our pharmaceutical sciences, health and human Noble Gas Solutions also uses community.” • GPS systems in its vehicles to monitor sciences, and biomedical technology. the whereabouts of its drivers and the “We’re beginning to attract great estimated time of delivery for its products. students in those areas,” Gozzo said. “We have graduate “We installed GPS systems in our The Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences’ student center trucks about a year-and-a-half ago,” programs in the Mahoney said. “We know where all of our pharmaceutical trucks are at any given time, we know how sciences, pharmacy many stops our drivers have made, and and administration, we’re able to manage our routes and our and we’re becoming people’s time more effectively. We had a more of a diverse dentist call one day who had a patient in institution. We his chair and asked how long it would be modified our name before his gas shipment arrived. Thanks to from Albany College GPS, we told him, ‘In about 10 minutes. of Pharmacy to ‘They’re right down the street.’” Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, because of the

18 | acchamber.org | techvalley.org ARCCC_Ad_1-3pg_color2011:Layout 1 2/11/11 11:26 AM Page 1 New Chamber Investors

Kinderhook Bank is small enough to care, and big enough to get you there! Welcome to these new Chamber members that joined between January 4 and February 7

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March 2011 | VISIONS | 19 Explore Its Scenic Beauty and International Commerce

From the Great Wall of China to the “Wall Street of the East,” create lifelong memories of Chinese culture and customs with the Chamber’s fourth annual trip to China.

NEW: We’ve added a second The Great Wall is 4,000 miles long, with its trunk, and has special meaning excursion! See below for more details. 2,000 years old and is said to be the only to people of the region. Nearby, visit manmade structure visible to the naked Solitary Beauty Peak, located within China is the adventure of a lifetime, and eye from the moon. There are 13 Ming JinJang Castle, home of the enthroned based upon the overwhelming response to Emperors’ Tombs, one of which is fully princes of the Ming Dynasty. The its three previous trips, the Albany-Colonie excavated and open for exploration. additional fee is $625 per person. Regional Chamber of Commerce is offering its fourth nine-day, all inclusive trip From Shanghai, visitors will take a The base price of $2,199 includes on October 4, 2011 –– including optional tour bus trip to Suzhou, with sightseeing to bus transportation to and from Albany excursions to the Terra-Cotta Warriors and the centuries-old Lingering Garden, Tiger to JFK International Airport, round-trip Elephant Trunk Hill. Hill and Hanshan Temple. international airfare, four- and five-star hotel accommodations, all in-country Highlights of the trip include a visit Sightseeing in Shanghai includes the transportation, three meals each day and to the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden Yu Garden, a maze of marvelous pavilions, fluent English-speaking tour guides. City, Tian An Men Square and the Yu ponds, rocky works and overarching trees. Garden. Optional side trips being offered with An informational session will be held on Wednesday, March 23 from 5:30 – 7pm Among the highlights of the base trip, this trip are: at the Chamber office. The full itinerary Tian An Men square is the largest square in • A trip to the Terra-Cotta Warriors and detailed information about the trip can the world, and the Temple of Heaven, built and Horses, the most significant be found by visiting the Chamber website in 1420 AD, is where the emperors prayed archeological excavations of the 20th at www.acchamber.org and clicking on for a good harvest. Sightseeing includes century. Discovered in 1974 by local China 2011. Space is limited; reservations the Palace Museum, farmers, “Terra Cotta Warriors and can be made by calling 518.431.1436. also known as the Horses” is a collection of terra cotta Forbidden City. sculptures depicting the armies of Qin The Chamber is sponsoring this trip in Shi Huang, the First Emperor of China. cooperation with Citslinc International, On your return, visit the Huaqing Hot Inc., a company with nearly 30 years of Spring Park and Banpo Museum, a experience in the China tour business. • preserved pre-historical cavemen site. The additional fee is $525 per person. • A visit to Elephant Trunk Hill, the symbol of Guilin, gives visitors a glimpse of Mother Nature at her most creative. Located along the Li River, the shape of the hill resembles a huge elephant drinking water from the river

20 | acchamber.org | techvalley.org Did You Know?

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March 2011 | VISIONS | 21 Albany Country Club expects to return to 2008 levels of 280 golfing memberships by June.

Banquets, weddings –– and golf –– are par for the course

Golf courses seek to increase business, through memberships and more

Golfers across the region are getting ready with steady membership numbers for 2011, 2007-08, but it has gradually regained its to tee it up again after a long winter, Abbruzzesse pointed out. numbers and expects to return to 2008 and golf course owners and managers “Our memberships have leveled out. levels of 280 golfing memberships by June, anticipate steady business on the greens and We have anywhere from 45-50 members,” according to William Aperance, CCM, in their banquet facilities in 2011. he said. “Members receive preferred tee general manager. There are currently 360 Built in an existing apple orchard, times, with no minimums for bar bills members with 260 golfing memberships. Orchard Creek Golf Club in Altamont and no extra add-ons. We haven’t seen “Albany Country Club has fared very offers a scenic view of the Helderberg membership declines like some clubs have. well during this economic downturn,” Mountains. The 18-hole course opened I’m actually getting other club members he said. “The Board of Governors and 12 years ago, was designed by PGA golfer who are joining our club.” management reacted quickly, reduced Davis Love III’s architect and is co-owned Orchard Creek conducts a budgets and concentrated on member by brothers Dan, John, Jim and Joe membership drive soon after Labor Day, services and outside banquets. Since our Abbruzzese. and anyone who wants to join for the club was financially sound and the course Three years ago, Orchard Creek built next year can pay early and play for the is maintained by one of the most qualified a 350-person banquet facility as a way to remainder of the current fall season for golf course superintendents in the area, we increase revenue, and the decision has paid free. were able to meet our needs and continue off nicely. to have an excellent facility. In fact, we were The club has lost a few leagues but is selected to host the 2010 New York State “We had two or three weddings in gradually seeing more golfers register for Men’s Amateur Championships, and our 2010, with 12 weddings booked for 2011 leagues, which helps business all around. course was in splendid shape.” and five weddings booked already for “We have about 500 league players,” 2012,” Dan Abbruzzese said. “Our revenue Abbruzzesse said. “A league can have as In addition to its challenging golf is up 29 percent for food and beverage in few as four players, because a tee time sold course, Albany Country Club’s banquet the restaurant alone. It was definitely the is a tee time sold. Our leagues play golf facility does brisk business and offers right move to build our pavilion because on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We still have breathtaking views of Albany from the we’ve gotten more outings.” spots open, and we take memberships right terrace and ballroom. “We have a record until we open up in the spring. Leagues number of weddings booked in 2011, Although Orchard Creek is primarily with all of our Mondays secured with a public course, memberships are available, are a great thing for the restaurant and definitely help our revenue.” golf outings,” Aperance said. “We earn approximately $1.75 million in food and Orchard Creek Golf Club built a 350-person As another golf season approaches, beverage sales each year, and 75 percent of banquet facility as a way to increase revenue, Orchard Creek hopes to grow its business that is member and non-member banquets. and the decision has paid off nicely. by appealing to a wide variety of golfers, Weddings comprise approximately 50 both on and off the course. “It’s pretty percent of our total revenue, even though hard to increase your rounds,” Abbruzzese we only allow only one wedding per day.” said. “By adding our banquet facility and building a meeting room for corporate Berkshire business gatherings, it improves the overall look of The Cranwell Resort, Spa & Golf the facility.” Club in Lenox, MA consists of magnificent Making the turn views, tree-lined fairways and naturally contoured greens that have been Albany Country Club’s membership carefully preserved since 1926, when the levels declined by 10 percent between picturesque, 18-hole Berkshire course was

22 | acchamber.org | techvalley.org built, according to Norma Probst, director ways to improve our services and amenities. of marketing. Our members are our biggest asset when it Membership growth is a constant comes to attracting new members. Keeping concern for golf courses in an uncertain membership levels has been of the utmost economy, and Cranwell is no different. importance. The Albany area has many “The economy has changed everything fine private clubs, semi-private and public for everyone,” Probst said. “All of us at facilities. It’s a competitive market. Cranwell recognize that to stand out in “We work hard to keep our current our industry, we need to be consistently membership satisfied. We listen to their excellent. That is the reason we are on concerns and ideas through surveys, track to grow again in 2011.” meetings and being accessible to them. Cranwell has approximately 230 Retention of our current membership members, and options include midweek, is a big focus on what we do; we are member friendly. If we are able to keep Van Schaick Island Country Club aims to keep its membership junior, twilight and full memberships. levels high and its expenses low as golf season begins. “We have planned for an increase in our members satisfied and happy, they will memberships and daily fee business for the promote Shaker Ridge to their friends, colleagues and business associates.” sister clubs and can categorically state that 2011 golf season,” Probst said. “Attracting collectively we are finding it to be to be a new members is always challenging, but The economy has forced all businesses very challenging environment, with one of we have a wonderful resort with unique to examine how they spend money, and the biggest challenges attracting the young facilities and a beautiful 18-hole golf golf courses such as Shaker Ridge are no business professional to join a country club. exception. The club has a banquet facility and “Membership levels are good from clubhouse with a full service restaurant a budget perspective, about six to eight that complement the membership dues percent lower than our highest point in and raise the company’s bottom line, Hart 2006, but still above our yearly budgeted noted. number,” Sarver said. “We have found it convenient and Shaker Ridge also counts on the economical to contract an outside caterer revenue generated by its banquet facility to to manage our banquet facility, which ensure the success of the golf club, Sarver enjoyed a record year in 2010,” he said. pointed out. “This is managed by Cliff Tironi, and “Banquet revenue is very important. the restaurant operates under the name We outsource the food and beverage of KC’s Pub. This facility is open to the operation to 2SHEA Catering. It’s public. The banquet facility will generally important for them to have a successful handle more than 100 events in the course banquet business in order for us to have a of a year. Members and their guests Cranwell Resort, Spa & Golf Club is on track to grow successful country club,” he said. “2SHEA especially enjoy the spacious deck that again in 2011. Catering can also book parties, weddings overlooks our 18th green.” and meetings to non-members, as well.” VSICC intends to actively promote course, all in the heart of the area’s premier itself this spring and summer to recruit music, arts and theater venues. If you live Island in the sun new members present a diverse offering of in the area or are planning to spend your Van Schaick Island Country Club membership packages. • summer in the Berkshires, it’s hard not to (VSICC) is centrally located high above choose Cranwell.” the banks of the Mohawk and In addition to golf, Cranwell hosts 75 Hudson Rivers conveniently off to 100 events each spring, summer and fall Interstate 787 on Van Schaick for wedding groups, corporate meeting Island in Cohoes. A private groups, social groups and a wide range country club, VSICC aims to keep of golf groups. “We could not host events its membership levels high and without our banquet facilities,” Probst said. its expenses low as another golf season begins, according to Frank Fairways and finances Hart, president. Bill Sarver, general manager of Shaker “VSICC presently has 140 Ridge Country Club, considers the club’s members and, along with most membership levels decent from a budget area clubs, has felt the effect of the perspective. economic slump,” he said. “We “We understand the economic factors feel we have fared better than most and realize people have a choice, so we clubs in this difficult economic strive to give the members what they are time, but we rigorously pursue looking for,” he said. “We are proud of expense reductions and new revenue sources. We are close to our Retention of its current membership is a big focus for Shaker what we offer and are always working on Ridge Country Club.

March 2011 | VISIONS | 23 Word On the Street

Why have you remained a long-time member of the Chamber?

Keith Pickett Gregory Jim Yando Executive Director Champion Senior Manager/ Family and Albany Office New York Children’s Service Managing Partner Administration of the Capital Bond, Schoeneck & Customer Service Region (FCSCR) King, PLLC Organization Aflac New York

Throughout its almost 200-year history, Bond, Schoeneck & King has been part of Aflac New York is proud to celebrate 25 FCSCR has sought to serve the needs of the Capital Region business community years with the Albany-Colonie Chamber of the people and communities of the Capital since 1971 and, throughout that time, Commerce. Like most teams celebrating a Region. Over the decades, the way we met has shared the Chamber’s vision of Silver Anniversary, we know that the secret that mandate changed –– new services participating in and, whenever possible, to success is in communicating common replaced older ones, new approaches enhancing the growth, prosperity and goals. As the number one provider of enhanced our capacities. But one thing that opportunities of the region. Supported by voluntary supplemental health insurance never changed was our desire to be not more than 200 attorneys throughout the in the nation, Aflac values the relationships just a part of the region, but a partner in firm, our 28 Albany attorneys assist clients we have developed with so many employers its progress, growth and development. We as they capitalize on new opportunities, who help make the Capital Region a better view our membership in the Chamber as expand operations, solve problems, place to live and grow a business. As we central to that mission. There is no better navigate laws, interact with government prepare for the future, we know that venue for us to work and interact with the agencies, and, when necessary, defend the ever-changing landscape makes our area’s leaders. We look forward to being a themselves. We live, we work and we partnership more relevant today than ever member for many years to come. represent the best in Tech Valley. before. We look forward to working with the Chamber well into the future.

24 | acchamber.org | techvalley.org Focus on energy Learn about New York’s energy-related initiatives from Senate Energy Committee Chair George Maziarz

Recently, Visions sat down with Senator To ease the sting on those residential George Maziarz, Chairman of the customers, the New York Power Authority New York State Senate Energy and would provide residential users with an Telecommunications Committee, for a annual discount amounting to $100 million one-on-one interview to discuss the energy- — the same they received in 2010 — related initiatives that could impact New through 2013. Yorkers. The discount would drop to $70 Maziarz represents the 62nd District million in 2014, $50 million in 2015 and in the New York State Senate, which $30 million in 2016 and beyond, but the encompasses all of Niagara County outside phase-out would be offset by the savings the City of Niagara Falls, all of Orleans from the scheduled elimination in 2014 County, and the western portion of of the 18A assessments, a temporary Monroe County. surcharge on electric bills. With Governor Andrew Cuomo Up to $8 million of the residential reaffirming his commitment to energy discount would be reserved for farmers research and development in both his paying residential rates. State of the State and his 2011-12 The Cuomo proposal also sets aside Executive Budget, the potential benefits, slightly more than a third of the electricity both economic and environmental, are — at least 350 of the 910 megawatts raised concerns that the bigger pool would significant. available through Recharge New York — repurpose upstate-generated low-cost Q: Tell us about the Governor’s for upstate businesses served by National power to downstate businesses. proposal to replace the current low- Grid, New York State Electric & Gas The proposed program also would set cost electricity Power for Jobs program. and Rochester Gas & Electric. That’s 30 aside at least 200 megawatts for attracting A: Governor Cuomo has proposed an megawatts more than under Paterson’s and expanding businesses and an additional initiative that would replace the current proposal. 100 megawatts for not-for-profit entities Power for Jobs program that provides The customers of those three utilities, such as hospitals. low-cost electricity to about 500 businesses under the current law, are the exclusive The Power for Jobs program would be statewide with a new program that would beneficiaries of the 455 megawatts of extended through June 2012 and require be twice the size. rural and domestic power that would be companies to reapply for Recharge New The Recharge New York program reallocated under the new plan to the larger York incentives. Current Power for Jobs is similar to the expanded Power for Jobs statewide pool of less expensive electricity recipients that are not selected for the new proposal that was backed last year by reserved for economic development. program would receive a discount equal then-Gov. David A. Paterson and the State The idea of reserving a block of to 66 percent of their 2010 savings for two Senate but failed to gain approval from the the power for upstate utilities was added years and 33 percent during the third and Assembly. It calls for diverting power from to last year’s plan after upstate interests fourth years. a residential program to businesses. While Power for Jobs was established and has been extended on a year-to-year basis since the late 1990s, sometimes with brief lapses, Recharge New York would be permanent, with participating companies receiving seven-year commitments for their allocations of low-cost power. Similar to the bill passed in the Senate last year, Recharge New York would double the size of the economic-development program to 910 megawatts by combining the 455 megawatts now used by Power for Jobs with another 455 megawatts that now is used to cut residential electric bills across upstate by $2 to $4 a month. March 2011 | VISIONS | 25 Q: What is the likelihood that we will In fact, as that reserve goes down, the get criticized for the incentives we have to see a permanent solution this year? 18A assessment sunsets in 2014, and offer companies to come here. It’s $100,000 A: I’ve been Chairman of the Senate residential ratepayers in upstate New York for every job. To me, the long-term Energy and Telecommunications will virtually see a wash in the bill. It will synergy that it creates brings in high-tech Committee under both the Republicans provide a lot of jobs for people who live in jobs. It ties into agriculture and soybean and Democrats. If ever the stars were upstate New York. production, soybeans can be used for fuel. aligned for Power for Jobs, I think this is Q: How do you define “upstate?” Do The whole area of producing energy and the time. The Governor is clearly on board you consider Albany upstate? biomass is booming. You have to get that with the language the Senate passed last first company. Yahoo located a facility A: Albany is considered upstate, it’s the in Lockport because of the allocation of year under a Democratic majority in the National Grid service area. Senate. The bill itself we passed I thought hydropower they received. Six to eight was very good. However, Governor Cuomo Q: What’s the future of renewable months later, Verizon proposed to build took the bill and made it better. He reserves energy in New York? a data center, a $5 billion investment. I can’t believe Google is far behind. When more power for upstate service territories, A: Solar energy is an area where we it comes to energy production, in New such as National Grid, New York State Gas really need to catch up. New Jersey is way York, if we opened up the ways to produce & Electric and Rochester Gas & Electric, ahead of us in the development of solar power, and it’s clean and cheap, we could which makes it better. I’ve had two private energy, but in New York we have to make really become an energy mecca. Albany’s conversations with the governor regarding it profitable for those developers. That’s geographic location between New York Power for Jobs. We’re going to pass it in the exactly what New Jersey did, through tax City, Boston and Montreal, it’s the hub of Senate. credits and power purchase agreements. the wheel. Albany has more opportunities They can produce all kinds of power with The bill is a good one. Nearly 500 because of its geographic location. businesses currently receive this low-cost solar and wind, but if nobody’s buying it, electricity. It helps the right companies, then what’s the point? This is where the Q: Based upon what you’ve heard small- and medium-size businesses across Power Authority is really going to have to from Governor Cuomo in his State of the state. It’s helped them stay here, and step in and provide that initial entrée to buy the State and his 2011-12 Executive with a seven-year certainty, I think it’s going those renewables. Budget, how confident are you that these energy initiatives will move to help them grow here. Q: What else is on the Energy forward? There’s a small village I represent Committee’s agenda? A: Obviously, he has a deficit to deal with in Western New York, with 1,500 people A: One of the goals of our committee first. Having some stability in the executive and a small, local supermarket. A big this year is to get a decent power plant branch is good for the business community. supermarket chain came in and said they siting law that’s technology neutral He’ll be able to concentrate and get some could put a store in there, but the cost of and provides a level playing field for all goals and objectives going to make New energy-efficient equipment was still too forms of generation. It’s been kicked York better for business. Right now, we’ve expensive. They said that if they received around for years. Pressure builds slowly got to concentrate on making sure business low-cost power, they’d put it into that little but continuously. It’s very difficult to site people get a return on their investment supermarket. We got them 500 kilowatts, windmills in New York today. Generally, in the energy field, and there are a lot of which isn’t a lot, but they extrapolated that everybody wants renewable sources until opportunities out there. Solar is “sexy” over a seven-year period and they paid for they want to build a windmill in your green, it’s acceptable, but if we could do all of their refrigeration equipment. Now, backyard. that village is booming, it’s a success story. nuclear, we’d get people investing in New Q: We’ve rebranded this region Tech The store now employs 75 people and has York, you’d get people investing in New Valley. Talk about the importance of changed the outlook of the community. York dramatically. I’m 100 percent in favor energy research and development in I realize how much this power means to of hydro-fracking. Pennsylvania did it too Tech Valley. these small- and mid-sized companies. quickly, we can learn from their mistakes. A: The opportunities are limitless when it It’s not only private investment, but the Q: The Senate has continuously comes to energy research and technology revenue can stay. • supported a permanent Power for going forward. Take nanotechnology. We Jobs program; however, the Assembly has typically been reluctant. How do you think they will react to the Golf | Arts | Hiking | Spa Services | Live Music | Pool | Fitness Center Governor’s proposal? A: That’s going to be the governor’s challenge to get them on board with the language. In the past they’ve had concerns that it unfairly targeted upstate residential ratepayers. The governor’s bill, however, has allocated more power to that area, and creative meeting spaces when you look at the money that’s going to preserve upstate farms and upstate competitive packages residential customers, the block of power Modern Services and Support reserved for them is not going to change in an Historic Setting for Groups their rates. DISTINCTIVE LODGING · ARTFUL CUISINE · TIMELESS ELEGANCE of 2 to 60 30 Main Street, Stockbridge, MA | (413) 298-1604 | RedLionInn.com 26 | acchamber.org | techvalley.org

Red Lion Inn Visions Submitted February 8, 2011 1/6th pg. 4.625” x 2.375”, 4 color Not-For-Profit Exchange

CSSC celebrates 30 years of serving seniors

In 1981, recognizing that a growing town would have many demands on its financial resources, several members of the community got together to create a new nonprofit model,Colonie Senior Service Centers (CSSC), to provide services for seniors in the Town of Colonie. Thirty years ago, seniors accounted for 11 percent of the population of the Town of Colonie; today, that number has doubled. The wisdom of the model was the recognition that, by developing a collaborative approach, this new nonprofit could meet the demand and financial costs by working with the entire community. This has worked exceptionally well. With seniors living longer and baby boomers joining the ranks, the model designed 30 years ago is all the more relevant today. According to AARP, 90 we’re always keeping percent of seniors want to stay in their homes. CSSC an eye on your business. helps to make this possible by providing services such as transportation, senior dining, health and recreation, Bright Horizons, Sheehy Manor, Beltrone At Marvin and Company, we focus on building strong,trusting relationships, Living Center, Umbrella of Colonie and a host of and delivering the kind of value other accounting firms don’t offer. other programs, all designed to help seniors age That’s why we make it our priority to get to know your organization as well as you do, successfully and gracefully in our community. CSSC allowing us to come up with innovative strategies designed to help you grow. is proud to celebrate 30 years of serving seniors this year. We’re not just accountants. We’re partners,business developers and educators,too. In fact,we even have our own educational program,Marvin University,to keep Seniors provide a tremendous source our clients informed about a wide range of financial issues. of economic and social capital, making a vital contribution to our region. This is recognized by all Corporate & Individual Tax • Estates & Trusts • Audits of CSSC’s partners, who understand the value of Reviews & Compilations • Employee Benefit Plans • Business Consulting supporting seniors through CSSC. Colonie Senior Service Centers could not provide all of these Earning the trust of our clients and communities for over 85 years. services without the generous support of the Call us today at 518-785-0134. business community, the continuing support of the Town of Colonie and Albany County Office of Aging, more than 350 volunteers from the community, and even the seniors who make voluntary contributions to the programs they utilize. CSSC is always grateful to the community, especially for its sustained efforts to celebrate aging with them. 11 British American Blvd. • Latham,NY 12110 • 518.785.0134 • fax:518.785.0299 For more information about Colonie Senior www.marvincpa.com Service Centers, call 518.459.2857 or visit www. colonieseniors.org. •

March 2011 | VISIONS | 27

On the move Noble Gas Solutions: American Marketing Association – New York Capital Eli Battistoni and Ryan Scanlon, territory sales managers. Albany Medical Center: Region Chapter: W. Michael Reickert and Todd Tidgewell, board of Schenectady Museum & Suits-Bueche Planetarium: Hosted “Marketing ROI: Investment Versus Added directors; Dr. Mary Ann McKee, department of neurology. Karen Cavanagh, Esq., Joseph Dragone, Ph.D., Tony Farah, Expense” with Dr. John Huppertz of Union Graduate Brian Hannafin, Trudy Lehner, Matt Mazzone and John College on February 10. AMRI: Wagner, board of trustees. Takeshi Yura, assistant director, medical chemistry. American Red Cross: The Scott Varley Group: Hosted a blood drive, along with Dunkin’ Donuts, to kick BCI Construction Services, Inc.: Maria Barr and Brenda Warchol, licensed real estate off the fourth annual “Give a Pint, Get a Pound” campaign. Gary Bohl, project superintendent. associates. During the month of January, all presenting blood donors The Bonadio Group: in the greater Capital Region received a coupon from Senior Whole Health of NY: Michael Smith, partner; Melissa Bezio, principal. Dunkin’ Donuts for a free pound of coffee. Linda Austin, director of client services. Capital District Women’s Employment & Resource BST: TD Bank: Center: Made a $4,000 contribution to The St. Anne Foundation Paul Bilodeau, vice president - commercial portfolio loan Melissa Clement, Hope DeRocha, Heather LaVine and in Albany through the BST Foundation. officer in commercial banking. Deirdre Sweeney, board members. Capital District Community Gardens (CDCG): Teal, Becker & Chiaramonte, Carter Conboy: The Veggie Mobile, CDCG’s mobile produce market, CPAs, P.C.: Stephanie Bartkowiak, partner. Adam Cooper and Mackenzie Monaco, directors. received an unexpected boost from the KeyBank Trinity Alliance of the Capital Region, Inc.: Foundation’s Capital Region office in the form of a $5,000 CB Richard Ellis: Timothy Duffey, board president; Greg Stapleton, vice contribution as part of “Key’s Gifts to the Community.” Richard Sleasman, SIOR, president and managing president; Dave Blessing, treasurer; Chris Betts, secretary; director; Jeffrey Sperry, SIOR, chairman; Eileen Lindburg, Capital District Habitat for Humanity: John Bishop, Samuel Caldwell, Beth Carey, Selig Corman, SIOR, senior vice president. Dedicated its 49th Habitat Home and presented keys to John DeCelle, Jaqueline Geraci, Anthony Hazapis, Dr. Lani the new homeowner at 25 O’Dell St., Albany. CBS6: Jones, Linda Mallory-Mitchell, Benjamin Oevering, Mark Corey Ausfeld, general sales manager. Shuket, Lynn Siebert, Kenneth Skinner and Wanda Wilson, Capital Financial Planning: board members. Presented the following awards: Capital Financial Planning Computer Professionals International: 30/30 Club inductees: Rachel Sloan, Bruce Gaynor, Lisa Tully Rinckey PLLC: Jeffrey Cohen, client business manager. Roberts, Peter Cowen, Carlos Farelo, Amy Casey, Adam Bruce Lennard, partner. Couch White, LLP: Neary, Frank Chiodi, Michael McCamy, James Zegers and Garrett Bissell, partner, energy practice group. United Way of the Greater Capital Region: Michael DePerto; 2010 President’s Award for All-Around Tamae Memole, community mobilization director. Excellence, James Zegers; 2010 David J. Ross Sr. Award CSArch Architecture | Engineering | Construction for Service above Self, Clare Mertz. Management: University at Albany: Zachary Malison, intern mechanical engineer; Nicholas James Dias, vice president for research. Capitol Hill Management Services: Mahan, intern electrical engineer; Mark Surra, senior Has announced the United New York Ambulance Network Wilson Elser Moskowitz Edelman & Dicker LLP: construction site representative for the firm’s Salmon (UNYAN) and the New York Alliance Against Insurance Douglas Kemp and Elizabeth Grogan, Albany County Bar River Central School District additions and alterations Fraud (NYAAIF) as Center for Non-Profit Development Association’s board of directors; Thomas Witz, WMHT’s project; Tina Mesiti-Céas, senior associate; Robert Timber clients. community advisory board. and Kelly Spizowski, associate. Careers In Transition LLC: C.T. Male Associates, P.C.: kudos Dr. Tom Denham, Career Counselor, was interviewed by John Hohman, network administrator. 3t architects: Elisa Streeter on WTEN twice in January on the subjects Received the American Institute of Architects of Eastern of Career New Year’s Resolutions as well as Resume DOs Deily, Mooney & Glastetter, LLP: and DONTs. In addition to his weekly career column on Linda Fossi, Leigh Hoffman and Richard Maider, partners. New York’s (AIAENY) Honor Award at the organization’s award presentation on January 25. TimesUnion.com, he is writing a second weekly blog on The Doane Stuart School: Albany.com entitled, “Ask Dr. Tom.” Susan Miller, assistant head for advancement. Active Family Chiropractic, PC: Collected 15 gifts for the Toys for Teens program Carter Conboy: Eric Mower and Associates: sponsored by the Victory Christian Church in December. Celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2010, and announced Doug Bean, chief operating officer. that five employees reached milestone anniversaries: AJ Management: Anne Lyman, 35 years; Kathy Nassrelgrgawi and Wendy Excelsior College: Received State Certification today as a Woman-Owned Jordan, 25 years; James Resila, 20 years; and Valerie Joan Mikalson, director of faculty development and Business Enterprise. Brady, 15 years. Also, Mackenzie Monaco, director, was support in the Office of the Provost; Emilsen Holguin, The Albany Academies: elected to the Capital District Trial Lawyers Association director of academic operations; Michael Leszcinski, board of directors. public relations manager. Alydaar Rangwala, a member of the Class of 2011, has been selected as a semifinalist for the 2010-2011 Coca- CB Richard Ellis Albany: Gramercy Communications: Cola Scholars Program. If selected as a Coca-Cola Scholar, A. Gordon Furlani, associate broker, has been named Eric Wohlleber, vice president. he will attend the Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend from April the 2010 TOBY awards recipient of the Capital Region Hiscock & Barclay: 14-17, 2011 during which time he will interview for one of Building Owners Managers Association’s Member of the Christopher Hanifin, Albany office counsel. 50 National Scholar awards of $20,000. Rangwala also Year; Brenda Garretson, CCIM, associate broker, has been recently received two Congressional Medals through the named the 2011 Upstate NY CCIM Chapter president. Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort: Congressional Award for his community outreach efforts. Kevin Alexander, conference sales manager. Center for Disability Services: Albany Institute of History & Art: After the seven-hour all live, all local broadcast of the Living Resources: Christine Miles, who has served as the Institute’s 51st Center for Disability Services Telethon on January Steven Ennis, corporate affairs officer; Colleen Neun, executive director since 1986, announced that she is 30, the final tote was $1,967,035. Highlights included QMRP (Qualified Mental Retardation Professional) at the leaving her position. appearances by Seth Meyers, the comedian, actor and Living Resources/College of Saint Rose College Experience Albany Law School: writer known for his work on “Saturday Night Live;” David Program; Cynthia Ballard, Tamekia Brown, Kurt Fiato, Patricia McGowan Wald, Chief Judge for the U.S. Court of Robertson of the New York Yankees; and Adam Koets of Gertina Hackett, Melissa Krissel, Michaela Mahon, Saint the New York Giants. Polhemus, Bryony Rodham, Colette Smith and Jessica Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit from 1986 to White, team leaders; Meredith Attanasio, regional manager 1991, will deliver the keynote speech at the 17th Annual Center for Economic Growth: and QMRP in the residential program; Alicia Anderson, Kate Stoneman Day on March 10 at Albany Law School. Will publish the 2011 Technology Almanac in partnership Gina LaRose, Margaret Gladwin and Kari Miele, residential She will also receive a Kate Stoneman Award. with The Business Review on April 15. habilitation managers; Erin Caywood and Laura Krenn, Albany Medical Center: Christian Brothers Academy: habilitation specialists; Virginia Gopadze, lead instructors. Rob Saba, senior development officer for leadership gifts Students volunteered for Make-A-Wish at Crossgates Mall. Maria College: at the Foundation, Inc., has been named Albany Medical Center’s 2010 Employee of the Year. College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering of the Shannon Older, board of directors. University at Albany: Albany Realty Group LLC: Mazzone Management Group: Received nearly $5 million in federal funding awards to Susan Baker, vice president of sales and marketing. Marie Bettini, broker/owner, was inducted into the support innovative research and education in a host of REALTORS®’ Honor Society by the New York State critical areas, including nanotechnology-enabled clean McNamee, Lochner, Titus & Williams, PC: Association of REALTORS®. energy technologies, nanomedicine, nanoelectronics, and Glen Doherty, president of the Albany County Bar Albany Symphony Orchestra: nanoscale education and workforce training. Association. Unveiled “Compose Yourself,” an exciting new education Community Based Business Incubator Center: Mortgage Bankers of Northeast New York: program that invites adult, student and college-age music Mel Ross, chief financial officer. Gisela Garver, board of directors. lovers to explore the world of composition with George Tsontakis, an international leader in contemporary music Community Resource Federal Credit Union: nfrastructure: and the orchestra’s Composer-in-Residence over the next two Employees volunteered their time during the busy holiday Bill Morrissey, senior managing director of business seasons through Meet the Composer’s Music Alive program. season to serve a meal for clients of Interfaith Partnership development. for the Homeless’s Sheridan Hollow Drop-In Center.

28 | acchamber.org | techvalley.org Member happenings Consulting Alliance: at Saratoga National on the grounds of Saratoga National YWCA of the Greater Capital Region: Robin Weintraub, president of Robin Weintraub Consulting Golf Club. SixDatebook women graduated from Ready for Work, a twelve-week in Athens, was accepted for membership. work readiness program. Northeast Kidney Foundation: Cotton Hill Studios: Lyn Taylor, president of the Association Management Datebook In conjunction with October Eve Music Group, recorded Division of Capitol Hill Management Services, Inc. two unique episodes of Rick’s Picks. Susie Essman, will receive the Edwin Sperber Legacy Award at the Academy of the Holy Names: co-star of the critically acclaimed HBO hit comedy series Foundation’s Gift of Life celebration on May 26 at the Will hold its Spring Soiree on Friday, March 25 at the “Curb Your Enthusiasm” was a recent in-studio guest on Desmond Hotel & Conference Center. Hilton Garden Inn, Troy, beginning at 6:30 pm. Tickets are the show. Rick’s Picks are available on iTunes or www. Peaceful Acres Horses: $75 per person, with hors d’oeuvres, dinner, open bar, rickspickspodcast, as well as www.rickbedrosian.com. Held a special day of blessing to say “Thank You” to the live and silent auctions to benefit the school’s academic and financial aid programs. To purchase tickets, call Cranwell Resort, Spa and Golf Club: rescued horses. 518.438.7895 or visit ahns.org. Launched its own app for iPhone, iPad Touch and Android Phillips Lytle LLP: phones. The Albany Academies: Has launched a new website, www.phillipslytle.com, featuring Creative Expressions Photography –– Pictures with innovative, user-friendly search tools. Phillips Lytle spent Will host the Third Annual Albany Children’s Book Festival on Saturday, April 9, from 10am to 4pm in the Silipigno Personality! nearly a year creating a completely new site that showcases Athletic Facility on the AAG campus, located at 140 Joan Heffler photographed Paula Stopera, CEO of CAP the talents of its staff and the depth of its capabilities. Academy Road in Albany. More than 50 children’s and COM Federal Credit Union, for the front cover of the Profitable Speech: young adult authors and illustrators have been confirmed, January issue of “Latino NY” Magazine. Owner Dale Klein was the featured speaker at the including Eric Luper, Jennifer Berne, Amanda Marrone, CSArch Architecture | Engineering | Construction February 2 Capital Region Women’s Council of Realtors Karen Beil, L.D. Campbell, Dale Christopher and many Management: fundraiser fashion show. All proceeds went to Dress more. For more information visit www.albanyacademies.org. Was featured in the December issue of the Library for Success, Albany, where Klein had donated her time Albany Center Gallery: Journal’s “The Year in Architecture 2010” for its work on coaching a recent graduate as she prepared to deliver her Presents the 2011 Mohawk Hudson Regional Invitational the John A. Howe Branch of the Albany Public Library. first speech. Exhibition, featuring the work of Amy Cheng, Katie Dale Miller: Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany: DeGroot and Douglas Durning. Gallery hours are Tuesday Has changed its name to Taste. Hired Eric Mower and Associates to develop and deliver a through Saturday, noon to 5pm. The gallery is located at marketing communications strategy and comprehensive 39 Columbia Street, Albany. Deily, Mooney & Glastetter, LLP: branding campaign for Catholic school education in the Albany Institute of History & Art: Joann Sternheimer, partner, was recently appointed to a diocese. panel of attorneys responsible for the investigation and The exhibition “HAJO: AN ARTIST’S JOURNEY” will be prosecution of attorney disciplinary complaints for the Ronald McDonald House Charities: open through Jul 31. Hans-Joachim Richard Christoph United States District Court in the Northern District of Held its 10th annual radiothon and the first Child Health (1903–1992), known familiarly as Hajo, lived through New York. and Well-Being Expo, Autograph Alley and Character most of the 20th century and witnessed firsthand its high Alley, and presented the Spirit of the House Award to points and low moments. The exhibition tells the story FingerPaint Marketing, Inc.: Kathy Schoolcraft, and the Voice of the House Award to of an immigrant artist, his journey from Europe to the Has unveiled its new website at fingerpaintmarketing.com. Southwest Airlines. Hudson Valley, and his artistic explorations. Sketchbooks, Friendly Ice Cream Corporation: drawings, paintings, graphic designs, and photographs St. Anne Institute: span the breadth of Hajo’s world and the art he created Held its 30th annual “Cones for Kids” campaign. The Has received a grant from The Community Foundation for to capture it. Valentine’s Day fundraiser benefits 30 Easter Seals Camp the Greater Capital Region’s Standish Family Fund for the Friendly’s program locations including Camp Colonie amount of $10,000 for the Living Independently for Future Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center: located in Cohoes. Employment program. Will hold The (Almost!) Vernal Equinox Hike on Saturday, Forensic Weather Consultants, LLC: March 19 from 10:30am – noon. What better way to Schenectady County Community College: welcome the first day of spring, than to get outside for a Has launched a newly designed and informative website, Will receive a $1 million grant over five years from walk in the woods? Participants will walk approximately http://weatherconsultants.com. The new site has updated CampusEAI Consortium and will partner with Green View 1.5 miles and stop to look for signs of the season. To information about the company, a section on local Energy Management Systems of New Hartford to be a register, call 518.456.0655 or visit www.albanypinebush. weather forecasts for any town, and a detailed blog that pilot site for a Real-Time Metering project under funding org and click on “Calendar Events.” will be updated regularly. by the New York State Energy Research and Development Healthy Cafe Catering Co.: Authority (NYSERDA) and conducted by NorthWrite, Inc. Center for Economic Growth: The 11th Annual SmartStart & UNYTECH Venture Forum Recently moved to 23 Vatrano Road in Albany and Schenectady Museum & Suits-Bueche Planetarium: is seeking venture-ready companies and early-stage remains strictly a catering company, servicing the entire Has been presented with a National Aeronautics and university start-ups to present to potential investors at an Capital Region. Space Administration (NASA) Space Place Certificate event held May 17-18 in Albany. Presenting companies Hiscock & Barclay, LLP: of Appreciation for its valuable contributions to its will have the opportunity to pitch their business plans community in the areas of science, technology education, Melissa Zambri was a featured panelist at the Health to a diverse cross-section of the investment community, and inspiration. LawSection Annual Meeting hosted by the New York State spanning venture capital funds, seed investment funds, Bar Association. SEFCU: angel groups and other public and private investors. Hudson-Mohawk Chapter of the American Society for President and CEO Michael Castellana will presented Application materials are available at www.smartstartvf. Training and Development: a $300,000 check to Unity House CEO Chris Burke in com, and the deadline to apply is March 1. support of Unity House’s job training programs at its Hosted “Even HR Plays a Role in Production: An Integrated Management & Sales Consulting: Street Ministry in Troy. The gift will allow Unity House to introduction to Lean, Toyota Production and Root Denise Horan, principal, will hold a series of “Lunch create an employment and training center to meet the Cause Analysis.” Michael Harrington of New Directions and Learns” dedicated to training individuals on various need for additional on-the-job training opportunities for Consulting was the speaker. important aspects of business all while relaxing and the unemployed in the region. Marvin and Company, PC: enjoying lunch. Each lunch session is scheduled to begin Hosted a free “Personal and Corporate Tax Update” Webinar. Siena College: at 11:30am in the Garden Room at Reel Seafood located In an effort to replenish post-holiday food supplies at the on Wolf Road in Albany. For more information and to Millennium Business Communications: Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York, Siena register for the workshops, visit www.imsconsulting.net. Announced the design and launch of the new website for Athletics hosted its annual food collection drive during the Northeast Health: The Crossing shopping center in Clifton Park. Siena men’s basketball game against Iona on January 3. The Eddy Visiting Nurse Association (Eddy VNA), will Mohawk and Hudson River Humane Society: Tully Rinckey, PLLC: hold Cuisine Magic 2011, its 18th annual culinary grand Brad Shear, executive director, successfully passed a In an effort to help the Capital Region’s homeless tasting, on Sunday, March 6, from 6pm at the Crowne rigorous test, developed to meet competency standards veterans in need, the law firm purchased winter coats Plaza Hotel, State & Lodge Streets, Albany. The evening set by peer professionals and was awarded the for all 28 residents of the Albany Housing Coalition Inc.’s will feature scrumptious dishes prepared by top chefs designation Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) Veterans Housing and Services. from across the greater Capital Region. For reservations, please contact the Northeast Health Foundation at Mosaic Associates: University at Albany: 518.271.5032. Is working with the Mechanicville District Public Library University at Albany: President George Philip unveiled to design proposed renovations and a 3,000-suqare-foot the University at Albany’s Strategic Plan, a framework Schenectady County Community College: expansion to its facility on Main Street. for action to propel the University forward over the next Will hold a free, artist-in-residence concert with Vince Northeastern Association of the Blind at Albany: decade. The plan was developed by faculty, staff, and DiMartino, trumpeter, on Wednesday, March 23 at 7:30 Was recently honored for its efforts to increase students of the Strategic Planning Committee with input pm at the Taylor Auditorium. DiMartino has been the lead employment retention, growth, and upward mobility for from more than 300 UAlbany faculty, staff students, and solo trumpet in the Lionel Hampton Band, the Chuck people who are blind in 2010. The award was presented alumni, and members of the greater Capital Region. Mangione Band, the Clark Terry Band and the Eastman Arrangers Holiday Orchestra. For more information, call to the organization by National Industries for the Blind Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood: 518.381.1250. (NIB) in recognition of NABA success and commitment to More than 50 residents of Albany, Columbia, Greene increasing employment and economic opportunities for and Renssealer Counties, including leaders, staff and To get your information into Member Happenings, people who are blind. volunteers, were part of an expected 400 who will rally email Paul Quirini at [email protected] Northeastern Fine Jewelry: at the state Capitol to urge support for family planning Customers who spent $250 received free with purchase funding in the state’s 2011-12 budget. dinner for two at Angelo’s 677 Prime in Albany or Prime March 2011 | VISIONS | 29 Apply todayfor Leadership Tech Valley Class of 2012 The Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber for individuals from diverse fields and M&T Bank is the sponsor of of Commerce and The Chamber of backgrounds to address regional challenges, Leadership Tech Valley. enhance their leadership network, foster Schenectady County are now accepting Applications are due by 3pm on creative problem solving and shape a applications for their Leadership Tech May 13 and may be downloaded at www. progressive future for Tech Valley. Valley Class of 2012. leadershiptechvalley.org. Information Leadership Tech Valley offers a unique The program commences with a two- sessions will take place on April 7 and opportunity for individuals to step inside day orientation retreat September 22-23, April 29, with times and locations to be the circle of decision making and problem followed by nine monthly full-day sessions determined. that focus on such topics as: economic solving that is shaping the region’s future. For more information, or to attend one development, community service, diversity Through a series of thought-provoking of the information sessions, please contact differences, media, education, health care, sessions, Leadership Tech Valley develops Karen Fox at 518. 431.1435 or karenf@ government and quality of life. the leadership potential of participants acchamber.org. • and builds a solid foundation of informed, Those selected to participate in action-oriented and productive employees. Leadership Tech Valley are expected to Leadership Tech Valley addresses display a high level of leadership in their development of leadership skills in respective careers and a deep commitment group dynamics, decision-making and to the community. team building. It provides opportunities

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30 | acchamber.org | techvalley.org ON THE SCENE

1. Colonie Town Supervisor Paula Mahan delivered her fourth state of the town address exclusively for Chamber members. She discussed how the town is handling community services, taxes and business retention/attraction, among other issues. The Colonie Business Council presented this event; HMS Agency and CB Richard Ellis were the sponsors.

2. During “Don’t Kiss On the Lips and Other Networking Tips,” Anne 1. Saile, president of The Saile Group, LLC, enlightened attendees by drawing on 25 years’ experience in developing and implementing successful professional connections by bringing people together. The Women’s Business Council presented this event; Tully Rinckey, PLLC was the event sponsor.

3. The Business Council of Cohoes presented the 2011 Spirit of Cohoes Award to Marra’s Pharmacy. Pictured l-r: Mel Quinlan, Business Council of Cohoes chair; Mark Eagan, Chamber president & CEO; and Barbara McDonald, owner of Marra’s Pharmacy.

4. Keith Pickett, executive director of Family & Children’s Services of the Capital Region, shared opportunities and resources to engage business’ corporate social responsibility plan and tools to successfully implement their plan.

5. For the first time, Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos addressed 2. Chamber members. One of the three most powerful leaders in New York state government, Skelos shared his insight on balancing the state budget, closing the deficit, easing the burden on taxpayers, and what pro-business steps the Senate is taking to strengthen our economy and create private sector jobs. Time Warner Cable and The Desmond Hotel & Conference Center were the sponsors.

3.

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4. Viewpoint

Chamber’s benefits are numerous and significant

It’s hard for me to believe this fact, but I business. I moved through various board have been indirectly and directly involved committee assignments and eventually Richard Kotlow, with the Chamber for over 30 years. served as chairman. When Wally retired, I Chief Executive Officer UHY Advisors NY, Inc. From almost my first day of work, continued my involvement with Lyn Taylor after graduating from the University of at the helm as we continued to build on the Massachusetts in June 1972, not being vision of Tech Valley. Advocacy: It is no coincidence that involved in an organization like the While chair of the Chamber, I had the we have GlobalFoundries’ significant Chamber was never an option. UHY’s honor of presenting Wally with the Envoy investment in our own back yard. Along Albany founders, Sidney Urbach, Salute Award, as well as launching the Tech with many other organizations, the Howard Kahn and Eli Werlin, along with Valley Chamber Coalition along with my Chamber has worked hard in turning partners Michael Urbach and Marilyn peers from the Schenectady and Rensselaer the Capital Region into Tech Valley and Pendergast, collectively stressed to a young county chambers. This launch was the realizing a dream we all had a decade ago impressionable accountant the need for official beginning of the initiative started by to put us on the world stage. community service as much as balancing my predecessor, Jim Howe, and carried on All these benefits add up to improving debits and credits. by my successor, Pamela Sawchuck Brown. our region’s overall quality of life. Without With some mentorship, I soon became a financially strong business community, a Rotarian and accompanied Sidney hospitals, health care, cultural institutions, Urbach to the Albany Rotary Club’s weekly “ government and just about everything else meetings and his son, Michael, helped get There are many companies, including in the public sector suffers. In addition, me appointed to various nonprofit boards, my own, that owe a significant part of there are many companies, including which initiated my community service. their success to Chamber programs my own, that owe a significant part of their success to Chamber programs and But it wasn’t until I set foot into my and relationships. relationships. More than a few successful first Chamber dinner in the 1970s, before companies also have received Chamber the merger of the Albany and Colonie loans or awards at a critical time in their Chambers, that I saw firsthand what the ” development. Chamber was all about. While I thought that my board I can only think of those who came In those early years, I began to see the involvement had run its course and rotated before me as an inspiration. Not the least benefits of not only Chamber membership, off the Chamber board several years ago, of whom is the great Artie Kapner and but active involvement. Sure, there are a funny thing happened –– I deeply missed namesake of one of the Chamber’s highest those attracted to being in a business my active involvement and found myself awards, The Arthur R. Kapner Spirit of club or taking advantage of insurance reaching out to Lyn to again serve. the Chamber Award. A past Chamber programs with larger risk pools, but there From the advantage of hindsight, I chairman, Artie was well into his 80s when was something more. While it would take can see the benefits that drew me to the he would show up at the Chamber and me years before I would fully witness all the Chamber and that I seek to pass on: make phone calls on its behalf to drum up benefits, I was well on my way. Image: What better way is there to membership. Wally Altes, past president, was one demonstrate that your company values the Today, I find myself talking up the of the first Chamber “mentors” to me. community? Become an active member, Chamber more than ever. We have another His Midwest sensibilities, combined with a attend events and support the various great president in Mark Eagan who quick study of how to “connect the dots,” initiatives. Your prospective customers will continues to take us to new heights. I am drew me to our shared interest of Chamber see you. confident that the Chamber’s best years –– activities. I soon found myself volunteering Connections: Having a place to and our entire region –– are just ahead of us. on more committees and supported by my network and meet others is important to fellow partner, Howard Foote, who was My only hope is that I pass along my any business. The many Chamber events already on the board. enthusiasm for the Chamber to today’s provide opportunities to foster new business young professionals. • When Howard’s term ended, I joined relationships –– not only customers, but the board and got to know Wally very also service providers and others who can well as we worked together on Chamber help you become successful.

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