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Re4orm Architecture Celebrates New Name and New Location

Photo from left: Re4orm Staff: Sam Williams, Mike Gamache, Shaun Andriano, Todd Cirillo, Mike Roman, J.T. Pollard, Laura Koss; Schenectady Mayor Brian Stratton; Chamber of Schenectady County President Chuck Steiner; Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation Executive Director Jim Salengo

Galesi Group Opens New Small Business Hub at Rotterdam Corporate Park

Photo from left: County Legislators Marty Finn and Angelo Santabarbara; Assemblyman George Amedore; David Buicko, Galesi Group; Rotterdam Town Supervisor Steve Tommasone; Assemblyman James Tedisco; Arnold Will, Empire State Development; Senator Farley representative Michael Mansion; Linda Hill, National Grid; Chamber of Schenectady County President Chuck Steiner.

Rotterdam, N.Y., August 19, 2008  --  The Galesi Group today announced the grand opening of it’s new Small Business Hub in Building 3 at the Rotterdam Corporate Park on Route 7 in the Town of Rotterdam following a $3 million renovation project.  The goal of the 270,000 square foot facility, located in the region’s largest business park, is to create jobs new jobs in Schenectady County.      

David M. Buicko, Chief Operating Officer of the Galesi Group said, “Today’s grand opening is the result of a partnership between Empire State Development, National Grid, Schenectady County, Metroplex and the Town of Rotterdam.  This project will help position Schenectady County to become the location of choice for fast growing small businesses.  Now that Building 3 is completely renovated, we will have a very attractive option for post-incubator stage companies. We believe this is an underserved segment of the local real estate market.”

The renovation of the nearly 270,000 square foot facility includes new roads, parking areas, and infrastructure as well as a new façade, rebuilt docks, and a new roof.  Building 3 has been subdivided into 24 sections consisting of approximately 11,000 square feet designed to accommodate the needs of small to mid-size businesses.  Each section has a new “store-front” entrance that opens into an office and/or showroom which can be built to suit the specific needs of prospective tenants.  The south side of the each section can be accessed by a new dock and overhead door which leads into an area that is ideal for a wide array of light assembly, manufacturing, or warehouse applications.  Economic assistance to this project was made available by Empire State Development’s Restore NY program and National Grid’s Industrial Building Redevelopment Program.

The Rotterdam Corporate Park was constructed by the United States Army during the 1920’s to serve as a depot for the storage and deployment of military equipment.  After being decommissioned by the Federal Government in 1969, Francesco Galesi purchased the 245-acre property and has converted it into the Capital Region’s largest business Park.  Consisting of over 4 million square feet, the Rotterdam Corporate Park is home to 50 businesses with approximately 1,100 employees.

Recent developments at the Park resulting from the cooperative efforts of the Galesi Group in partnership with Metroplex, Schenectady County and the Town of Rotterdam include the construction of Railex USA’s 225,000 square foot East Coast distribution hub, Golub Corporation’s 150,000 square foot freezer facility, and FedEx Freight’s 55,000 square foot regional distribution hub.  In addition, the Rotterdam Corporate Park recently welcomed Huff N’ Puff as a new tenant with its 9,000 square foot headquarters operation as well as   Op-Tech Environmental Services.   Metroplex is currently working to purchase from New York State a 260,000 square foot building at the Rotterdam Corporate Park so that additional space can be prepared for growing companies.

Based in Rotterdam, New York the Galesi Group is among the largest real estate development companies in the State.  Its extensive holdings include approximately 10 million square feet of commercial space in the Albany area as well as property in New York City, California, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, Colorado, and Texas.  While the Galesi Group is primarily in the business of real estate development, the company also owns and operates a property management company, a third-party logistics company as well as oil and gas businesses.  For additional information about the Galesi Group, see www.galesi.com.       

Lower Bill Telco Solutions Finds Niche as a Liaison to Savings

Schenectady, NY - August 15, 2008 --  Lower Bill Telco Solutions, located in the U-Start Business Incubator, celebrated its opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the Chamber of Schenectady County and the Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation on Wednesday, August 13, 2008. The company specializes in lowering the cost of telecommunication services via resourceful packaging solutions.

"We are extremely pleased that Paula recognized the phenomenal resources offered by the U-Start Business Incubator and set up her office in our district," said Jim Salengo, executive director of the Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation. "I am confident that more and more professional companies will locate in downtown Schenectady as improvements continue and additional office space comes online."

Lower Bill Telco offers a complimentary 30-minute consultation. Zink then creates a variety of solutions based on individual business needs, reliability, risk factors and cost savings. Her company also ensures a seamless transition between the old carrier and the new.

"Telephone service - including fax and toll-free numbers, credit card data lines, internet connections and wireless usage - can all be packaged together for consumers," explained 15-year industry veteran and business owner Paula Zink. "By bundling their telecommunication tools, 75-80 percent of the businesses that I work with can save a significant amount of money. There are almost always less expensive ways for businesses to achieve the same results."

Zink's business is located at 4 Nott Terrace in the U-Start Incubator. "U-Start was the answer for Lower Bill Telco Solutions," commented Zink. "I spend most of my time on the road and don't need much office space. U-Start is an affordable option that offers perks like conference space, mentoring and support tools. I wouldn't have had these advantages had I chosen to run my business from home."

"Lower Bill Telco Solutions has been a wonderful addition to U-Start," said Executive Director B.J. Johnson. "Paula analyzed the telecommunication needs of our organization and reduced our annual expenditure by $1,000."

Lower Bill Telco Solutions | 4 Nott Terrace, Schenectady NY 12308 | 518.3464526

www.lowerbilltelco.com

The mission of the Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation is to promote Downtown Schenectady as a premier location for commerce, recreation and residence by enhancing, facilitating and supporting economic and cultural growth.

Schenectady Chamber Names Business Award Honorees

The Chamber of Schenectady County will honor eight organizations and individuals at its 20th Annual Business Awards Dinner on Tuesday, October 21 from 5:30-8 p.m. at Glen Sanders Mansion in Scotia.

"The Chamber is thrilled to recognize these businesses and the people who make them successful," said Angelo Mazzone,chairman of The Chamber's Board of Directors. "Schenectady has much to celebrate these days, and our vibrant business community is a big part of the Renaissance."

Following are the award cateogries and honorees:

RISING STAR AWARD - Given to a business in operation for two years or less that has demonstrated commitment to the community and exhibits potential for long-term success.
LT's Grill, Niskayuna; Thomas Coppola and L.J. Goldstock, owners

SAY SCHENECTADY TOURISM AWARD - Bestowed upon an individual or organization that has shown significant commitment to the development of tourism and visitor services in Schenectady County.
Schahet Hotels, owners of the Holiday Inn and Hampton Inn, Schenectady; Greg Schahet, president

TECH VALLEY INNOVATION AWARD - Given to a business that has demonstrated extraordinary technical innovation.
TransTech Systems,Schenectady; Harry Apkarian, Chairman/CEO and David Apkarian, president

ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR - Recognizesan innovativeleader in a business with 100 employees or less who has contributed to the growth of Schenectady County.
Ray Bleser, Owner, Northeastern Fine Jewelry, Albany, Schenectady and Manchester, VT

ENTERPRISE OF THE YEAR - An award reserved for businesses with 100 employees or less distinguishing itself through achievements in growth and management.
The Mossey Group, Schenectady; Larry and Nan Mossey, owners

EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR - Reserved for a natural-born leader and charismatic go-getter who has contributed to the growth of Schenectady County.
Ray Gillen, Chairman, Schenectady Metroplex Development Authority, Schenectady

CORPORATION OF THE YEAR - For a business with 100 employees or more, distinguishing itself through achievements in growth and management. 
RailEx LLC, Rotterdam Corporate Park; Paul Esposito, Senior VP

SPECIAL RECOGNITION: Gabriel Basil, retiring President, Schenectady County Community College

Peaceful Acres Adds 144 Acres to Create Horse Sanctuary

Photo from left: Walter Robb; Schenectady County Legislator Jim Buhrmaster; Ed, Nancy and Tippy Beyerl; Assemblyman George Amedore; Schenectady County Legislator Angelo Santabarbara; Chamber of Schenectady County President Chuck Steiner.

Owner Nanci Beyerl celebrated the new parcel of land added to Peaceful Acres with a ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the Chamber of Schenectady County on Wednesday, August 6, 2008. Beyerl purchased the original Peaceful Acres, which sits on 12 acres at 3740 Rynex Corners Road in Pattersonville, in 2002. By adding 144 additional acres, she was able to develop an equine rescue program to enhance her equine assistance psychotherapy initiatives.

“Now we are helping horses and helping people,” stated Beyerl. “The new land provides a much-needed sanctuary for abused and neglected horses, and it affords our journeying and wellness retreats more space for experiential therapy.”

Just 15 minutes from downtown Schenectady, the “High Point,” a pasture perched at the top of Schenectady County, is Beyerl’s favorite site on the property. It offers breath-taking views of both the County’s rolling hills and the Southern Adirondacks. Beyerl hopes to soon adorn it with an energy-generating windmill in an effort to take the farm off the grid.

Although the farm has just one full-time employee, Beyerl is never short on big ideas or the people it takes to get things done. A core of dedicated volunteers takes on the lion’s share of the work, including crafting press releases and flyers, printing needed materials and even tracking accounting.

Peaceful Acres is a dynamic nonprofit entity steeped in collaborative community efforts. In addition to the aforementioned programs, the farm welcomes interns from SUNY Cobleskill and youth from Schenectady County Job Training Agency’s Summer Youth Employment program, and hosts fundraisers for various local nonprofits and more. Informational tours are planned for the fall on dates to be announced.

Peaceful Acres Horses | 3740 Rynex Corners Road, Pattersonville | 518.887.3178

www.peacefulacreshorses.com

Chamber to Partner with Proctors on Capital Region Hall of Fame Opening

Proctors Theatre will celebrate the opening of its 2008-09 season with a special black tie gala event. This year the gala will feature the grand opening of the Capital Region Entertainment Hall of Fame. The site of the Capital Region Hall of Fame is Robb Alley, part of the expanded space at Proctors in what was the former Carl Company. The law firm of Martin, Harding and Mazzotti, LLP, are the corporate sponsors of the Capital Region Entertainment Hall of Fame, which has been in the development stage for some time. In addition, this new project is in partnership with The Chamber of Schenectady County and the Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce.

The Capital Region Entertainment Hall of Fame will be open to the public and will continue to grow as new inductees are added each year. There will be pictures and biographies of each inductee and with growing technology, the ability to dig deeper and learn more.

The Capital Region Entertainment Hall of Fame will honor individuals and corporations who have significantly affected the arts, the culture and the entertainment industry; and were either born in the area or, at one time, resided in New York’s Capital Region. For this purpose, the Capital Region is defined as Albany, Schenectady, Rensselear, Saratoga, Fulton, Montgomery, Schoharie, Warren and Washington counties.

The award-winning independent filmmaker, John Sayles, was the first inductee into the Hall of Fame in 2006. A former resident and graduate of Schenectady High School, Sayles premiered his latest film, Silver City, at Proctor’ in September 2004. John will be honored, as his plaque is unveiled at the Grand Opening Gala, as the first of the Hall of Fame inductees. This year’s inductees, to be formally inducted into the Capital Region Entertainment Hall of Fame on September 20, 2008, include: Francis Frederick Proctor, owner & builder of Proctor’s Theatre; Ernst F.W. Alexanderson, a General Electric engineer, who transmitted the first public demonstration of television in January 1928 on Proctor’s stage; actors Kirk Douglas from Amsterdam; Monty Woolley from Saratoga Springs; Maureen Stapleton from Troy; television station, WRGB and radio station, WGY of Schenectady. Both WRGB and WGY are the oldest and continuously running stations in the United States and both were previously owned and operated by General Electric.

Inductions into the Hall of Fame will continue to be made on an annual basis, by the induction committee, and will be recognized on wall plaques that feature a picture and biography of the individual or corporation. Film screenings, readings, exhibits, question & answer sessions and other appropriate activities will occur leading up to the induction. The Hall of Fame committee who have selected the honorees included: Paul Harding, Martin, Harding and Mazzotti, LLP; Walter Supley, Creative Advantage; Dan DiNicola, WRGB; Jack Sheehan, The Costumer; John Scherer, New York State Museum & chairman of the Historical Committee at Proctors; Philip Morris, Proctors Theatre CEO.

The 2008 Season Opening Gala, a formal evening of fine dining and celebration, was chosen as the appropriate setting to honor those who are being inducted. Several inductees, including Kirk Douglas and Maureen Stapleton have relatives still living in the Capital Region who will be in attendance on this special evening and will share stories and memorabilia. When contacted, Maureen Stapleton’s children stated, “We are honored that our mother will be honored as one of the first inductees into the new Capital Region Entertainment Hall of Fame. Her talent and her works have been recognized throughout her career, but this recognition is especially touching since it shows appreciation from her admirers in the Capital Region, where she grew up and enjoyed life.”

Speaking on behalf of the local family members, Marilyn Gordon, the niece of Kirk Douglas, said “It’s such a great tribute that his hometown region would like to honor him and his lifetime achievements in this way. Our family is thrilled that Kirk Douglas has been chosen to be among the first group of inductees into the Capital Region Entertainment Hall of Fame at Proctor’s Theatre.” For all who attend the grand opening, it will be a night to remember.

For information on the Hall of Fame or the 2008 Proctors Gala, please contact Judy Decker at 518.382.3884, ext. 134.

Historic Sign Restored to Its Schenectady Home

Schenectady, NY - July 31, 2008 - The Chamber of Schenectady County welcomed a newly restored historic sign to the city’s Liberty Park on Thursday, July 31 at 11:15 a.m.

The iron sign, featuring an iron silhouette cutout of the Stockade, was originally erected by The Chamber of Schenectady County in the 1930s. It reads, “Welcome to Schenectady ~ Settled by Arent Van Curler in 1661 ~ Burned by the French and Indians February 8, 1690.” The sign was one of four originally constructed at the gateways to the City of Schenectady and is the only one that remains today.

Restoration of the sign is courtesy of Olson Signs, a 20-year Chamber member. Owner Richard Olson volunteered to refurbish it to support the positive momentum of downtown Schenectady’s rebirth. “It needed to be done, and I wanted to do my part,” he explains. After a considerable amount of scraping and priming, Olson repainted the sign’s iron framework and created a carved wooden sign to place inside. He retained all the original hardware to mount the sign, but did have to track down some decorative replacement components.

Liberty Park, located at the end of I-890’s 4C exit ramp at the corners of Washington Avenue and State Street, is directly across from Schenectady County Community College and the Schenectady YMCA. The park is a landmark in old Schenectady, originally a cemetery in 1689, then the site of Clench’s Tavern – a place where George Washington slept and ate – during the American Revolution. During the 1800s it was a residential area whose most famous tenant was George Westinghouse Jr., inventor of the air brake and a pioneer in rotary steam engines. When the Hotel Van Curler was built in 1923, the houses were demolished and a park created. A petite Statue of Liberty was added in the 1950s, so the spot was aptly named “Liberty Park.” 

Olson’s Signs is located on Vley Road Extension in Scotia. A family-owned business for 60 years, it is currently operated by Rich, his wife Kelly and their son Arthur. The Olsons are responsible for many signs and banners that grace the region, including those at Proctors Theatre and Freedom Park in Scotia. Visit their web site at www.olsonsigns.com.

The Chamber of Schenectady County, founded in 1924, is a network of more than 1,000 business organizations serving more than 50,000 employees. Its mission is to drive the business climate throughout Schenectady County, and its vision is to be a catalyst for partnerships and progress and to provide its members and the community with the tools to achieve growth, prosperity and a superior quality of life.

Ink Smart Provides Eco-Friendly, Affordable Refill Service

San Souci Announces Change in Ownership

 Photo from left: Assemblyman Jim Tedisco’s representative Greg Amorosi, Village of Scotia Mayor Kris Kastberg, County Legislator Jim Buhrmaster, Shannon Thouin, Jodie and Jamie Galante, Kevin Buhrmaster, Chamber of Schenectady County Chuck Steiner.

San Souci Restaurant celebrated its new ownership with a ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the Chamber of Schenectady County on Friday, July 25, 2008. Located at 216 Mohawk Avenue in Scotia, the restaurant is open daily and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Owned by sisters Shannon Thouin and Jodie Galante and Jodie’s husband Jamie, San Souci is a family-oriented restaurant that specializes in homestyle dishes prepared from scratch. The family formerly owned Mama Lee’s on Sacandaga Road but were forced to close when the landlord sold the building.

“It was hard to be patient; we wanted to open again right away,” explained Thouin. “The most important thing to us was staying in Scotia. We couldn’t stand the thought of relocating and leaving all our customers behind. It was worth waiting for the right opportunity.”

San Souci has been a Mohawk Avenue mainstay since the mid 1900s. The aging interior has been remodeled and brightened by the Galantes and Thouin. Separate dining and bar areas offer a choice in atmosphere. The dining room accommodates parties as large as 20 people. A flat-screen television is the focal point of the 12-seat bar, and Quick Draw is a popular offering.

San Souci Restaurant | 216 Mohawk Avenue, Scotia | 518.377.2041

Open: Monday – Thursday 6 a.m. until 9 p.m., Friday 6 a.m. until 10 p.m., Saturday 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. and Sunday 7 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.

Community College Contributes $330 Million to Schenectady County Economy

An economic impact report detailing the economic contribution of Schenectady County Community College (SCCC) to the county was recently presented to the SCCC Board of Trustees.

Schenectady County receives $329.8 million in income each year due to SCCC and its students. This figure amounts to 5% of the county's total annual income.

Schenectady County taxpayers see a real money return of 15% on their annual investment in SCCC.

Over the course of a working lifetime, a student with an Associate's degree earns $590,400 more than someone with a high school diploma, which contributes to the county's economy via higher taxes, greater spending, and the accompanying economic multiplier effect.

Students receive a 21% annual return on their SCCC educational investment of time and money.

New York state benefits from improved health and reduced welfare, unemployment, and crime, saving the public $1.6 million per year each year that students are in the workforce.

Copies of the Study are availableat www.sunysccc.edu.

Kathleen's Therapeutic Massage Opens on Hamburg Street

Photo from left: Chamber of Schenectady County President Chuck Steiner; Rotterdam Town Supervisor Steve Tommasone; Krista, Kevin, Kyle and Kathleen Carroll; Massage Therapist Gemma Clancy; County Legislator Angelo Santabarbara; Assemblyman Jim Tedisco Representative Greg Amorosi; First National Bank and Rotterdam Business Association Representatives Terry Freeman and Lisa Jackey.

Kathleen’s Therapeutic Massage and Day Spa celebrated its recent opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the Chamber of Schenectady County on Tuesday, July 15, 2008. Located at 2779 Hamburg Street in Rotterdam, the spa’s services include custom- therapeutic, prenatal, Shiatsu, hot stone and deep tissue massage. In addition, Kathleen’s offers mud wraps, foot scrubs and hand massages.

“I was always interested in the medical field when I was growing up,” confided owner Kathy Carroll. “After years of dealing with stressed-out, disgruntled people as a customer service representative, I thought massage therapy would be a positive, meaningful way to impart some of the good I have experienced in my life to others.” Carroll feels fortunate to have had a wonderful childhood, a loving and supportive 24-year marriage and two terrific children. Offering a healing touch and supporting wellness as a massage therapist is her way of paying it forward.

After completing a two-year program at the Center for Natural Wellness on Wolf Road, Carroll graduated as a Licensed Massage Therapist. She currently employs two additional licensed therapists. Plans for the future include adding manicure and pedicure services as well as an esthetician for skin care.  Kathleen’s Therapeutic Massage and Day Spa is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 4:30 until 8 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday 9:30 a.m. until 8 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Kathleen’s Therapeutic Massage and Day Spa

2779 Hamburg Street, Rotterdam | 518.355.5400

The Chamber of Schenectady County, founded in 1924, has three core values: We believe in business; we back business; and we build business. The Chamber offers its members service, support and promotion; acts as a community voice for government advocacy and provides programming for special interest groups; assists businesses with marketing, education and networking. By joining The Chamber, a company becomes part of a network of more than 1,000 business organizations serving more than 50,000 employees. Its mission is to drive the business climate throughout Schenectady County, and its vision is to be a catalyst for partnerships and progress and to provide its members and the community with the tools to achieve growth, prosperity and a superior quality of life.

1326 State Street Flea Market Offers Up Great Deals!

1326 State Street Flea Market celebrated its recent opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the Chamber of Schenectady County on Thursday, July 10, 2008. The flea market currently has seven vendors selling gently-used items at bargain prices. There is room to expand, and new vendors are welcome.

Owner Shawn Sandham lives in New Jersey. He employs a full-time manager, Cliff Dodge, to run his business. Sandham chose Schenectady because of the recent influx of Guyanese to the area.

“My wife Khem is Guyanese, and we know that they are industrious, hard-working people who will help to build up the community,” explained Sandham.  “With the growing concerns about the economy, we felt the timing was perfect to open a flea market. We are giving our vendors the opportunity to make additional income and offering merchandise at a good value as well.”

1326 State Street Flea Market is open Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. A discount coupon has been included in the Daily Gazette for use on Friday, July 11, 2008.

The Chamber of Schenectady County, founded in 1924, has three core values: We believe in business; we back business; and we build business. The Chamber offers its members service, support and promotion; acts as a community voice for government advocacy and provides programming for special interest groups; assists businesses with marketing, education and networking. By joining The Chamber, a company becomes part of a network of more than 1,000 business organizations serving more than 50,000 employees. Its mission is to drive the business climate throughout Schenectady County, and its vision is to be a catalyst for partnerships and progress and to provide its members and the community with the tools to achieve growth, prosperity and a superior quality of life.

Schenectady Welcomes New Residents

From left: County Legislator Philip Fields, Assemblyman George Amedore, Chamber of Schenectady Chairman of the Board Angelo Mazzone, Schenectady ARC Executive Director Linda Lahaie, Bella Stuart, Assemblyman Tedisco representative Greg Amorosi, County Legislator Marty Finn.