Mr. Duquette is a senior associate with Jacobowitz & Gubits’ Real Estate Team. His primary practice is devoted to condominium/HOA, [...]]]> Walden, N.Y. (February 3, 2012) – Jacobowitz & Gubits is pleased to announce that William E. Duquette Jr. has been named to the board of directors governing Orange County’s not-for-profit emergency housing agency, HONORehe.

Mr. Duquette is a senior associate with Jacobowitz & Gubits’ Real Estate Team. His primary practice is devoted to condominium/HOA, banking and real estate. Bill previously served as an Associate General Counsel with the Jehovah’s Witnesses Office of General Counsel in Patterson, New York.

HONORehe, a United Way Agency, is the only agency under contract with Orange County to provide emergency shelter and companion services for the homeless. The agency has served homeless families, single people and those in crisis due to alcohol and drug abuse for 33 years.

“Bill’s dedication to this cause exemplifies the spirit of community service that is central to Jacobowitz & Gubits,” said Gerald Jacobowitz, Jacobowitz & Gubits Senior Partner. “We are proud he has joined the HONOR board of directors and confident his expertise will be an important asset in fulfilling the agency’s mission.”

About Jacobowitz & Gubits, LLP

Jacobowitz & Gubits, LLP, was founded in 1963 to provide sophisticated legal representation to businesses and individuals throughout the Mid-Hudson Valley and the state of New York. The solo firm established by Gerald N. Jacobowitz has grown into a practice with 28 attorneys and a full staff of paralegals and legal assistants to service a growing and dynamic client base.

Jacobowitz & Gubits, LLP, handles a wide range of legal issues including business litigation, commercial real estate, elder law and estate planning, municipal law, land use and zoning, equine law, veterans disability & income, health care law, personal injury, employment, family law, criminal law and bankruptcy.

For further information on the firm of Jacobowitz & Gubits, LLP please visit www.jacobowitz.com or call (845) 778-2121 or (845) 454-6000.

Alliance will focus on helping companies work together on common issues

NEW WINDSOR, N.Y. (Feb. 2, 2012) – The Hudson Valley Economic Development Corp. officially launched its Hudson Valley Food and Beverage Alliance today with an event attended by over 200 of the area’s food and beverage companies, suppliers and [...]]]> F&B Roundtable Fact Sheet

Alliance will focus on helping companies work together on common issues

NEW WINDSOR, N.Y. (Feb. 2, 2012) – The Hudson Valley Economic Development Corp. officially launched its Hudson Valley Food and Beverage Alliance today with an event attended by over 200 of the area’s food and beverage companies, suppliers and elected officials.

The Hudson Valley Food and Beverage Alliance was created by HVEDC – the same organization that developed NY BioHud Valley, which helps unify marketing efforts by the biotech industry in the Hudson Valley and reinforce that the Hudson Valley is the epicenter of the biotech industry in New York.

“The Food and Beverage Alliance will be a strong network of companies, providers and government all with the same purpose in mind – to grow an already prosperous food and beverage industry into an even greater sector for the Hudson Valley,” said Mike Oates, CEO and President of the HVEDC.

Among those speaking at today’s Hudson Valley Food and Beverage Alliance Roundtable was Senator Charles Schumer; Dr. Tim Ryan, President of The Culinary Institute of America; and Dutchess County Executive Marcus J. Molinaro. The event was hosted by The Culinary Institute of America at its Danny Kaye Theatre in the Conrad N. Hilton Library at the Hyde Park campus.

“I am eager to work with the Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation as they launch The Food and Beverage Cluster, which will create new economic opportunities and good-paying jobs,” said Sen. Schumer. “Whether it’s a small farmer selling their crops or a global company facing international competition, I will help anyway I can. This initiative will forge new partnerships and thrust the Hudson Valley to the forefront of the food and beverage industry. When food and beverage companies are looking to start up or expand – they will now be looking at the Hudson Valley to call home.”

The Food and Beverage Alliance’s mission is to focus on helping food and beverage companies in the region work together as strong partners and market their products all over the United States.

The purpose of today’s discussion was to help shape the course of the food and beverage industry in the Hudson Valley for 2012 and beyond. Discussions were held on a variety of topics, including exploring business-to-business needs, industry policies at the state and federal levels, workforce training and education initiatives including funding opportunities, access to capital through loan and grant programs and networking.

Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand said: “The Hudson Valley Food and Beverage Alliance Roundtable is an excellent opportunity for the Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation to bring together local New York businesses to showcase all of the fine products they have to offer. I will continue working with the Economic Development Corporation and these local businesses to promote this initiative and attract more jobs to the Hudson Valley food and beverage industry.”

County Executive Molinaro said, “As home to the nationally renowned Culinary Institute of America, Dutchess County has seen significant growth in the food and beverage industry.   Fostering this cluster is important to our local, regional and state economy, so we are excited to partner with the Food and Beverage Alliance to help ensure these companies continue to grow and prosper here in Dutchess County.”

“From global brand powerhouses such as PepsiCo, Dannon, Heineken, Sabra Dipping and Pernod Ricard, to local emerging specialty firms, such as Captain Lawrence Brewing, we view the Alliance as a powerful platform for promoting the vitality and diversity of our Westchester-based food and beverage companies,” stated Laurence Gottlieb, Westchester County’s Director of Economic Development. “By partnering with private industry, rather than getting in its way, government (at all levels) can work together with the Food & Beverage Alliance members to significantly expand business and employment opportunities throughout the Hudson Valley and beyond.”

“Ulster County is home to a large number of food and beverage industry partners ranging from small value-added specialty food production to large beverage bottling operations to food equipment process manufacturing,” said March Gallagher, deputy director of planning for economic development, Ulster County Office of the County Executive. “We appreciate that HVEDC is shining a spotlight on this important industry sector, which drives jobs and investment in our community.”

Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther said, “Between agriculture and manufacturing, food and beverage is an integral part of Hudson Valley economy.  I am happy to work with HVEDC on this exciting initiative to promote and grow this vital industry.”

Michael C. Finnegan, CEO of Continental Organics, said, “For a startup like Continental Organics, support from companies that belong to the Hudson Valley Food and Beverage Alliance and networking with them will be immensely helpful.”

“I think the Alliance will offer companies like ours the opportunity to find synergies or commonalities that help each of us profitably grow our businesses,” said Robb E. Turner, founder of Crown Maple Syrup.

“The launch of the Food and Beverage Alliance builds on the strength of the diverse industries in this sector throughout the Hudson Valley,” said Dr. Marsha Gordon, president/CEO of the Business Council of Westchester. “Formalizing this alliance provides even more of an opportunity to create jobs and build the economy of our region. The Business Council of Westchester is pleased to be a founding sponsor.”

Maureen Halahan stated, “I applaud the HVEDC for its role in forming the Hudson Valley Food and Beverage Alliance.  “The food and beverage industry has blossomed from a collection of mom-and-pop operations to a trillion dollar powerhouse led by huge international corporations.  This alliance will position the region to take advantage of this high-growth industry.”

“I am extremely excited to be a part of the Hudson Valley Food and Beverage Alliance,” said Michael Bonura, a founding partner of Bonura Hospitality Group.  “Being involved in the industry in the Hudson Valley since childhood, my passion for its growth and enhancement is innate.  I’m honored to be part of the voice that can give our industry presence and strength in Albany.”

“Farming is one of the most important businesses in the Hudson Valley and the Hudson Valley Food and Beverage Alliance is a vital first step to building relationships in our various food system networks as well as further strengthening our voice with relevant public policy makers,” said Chris Pawelski of Pawelski Farms in the Goshen area. “I and the farmers in the black dirt of Orange County would like to thank HVEDC for making this event and future ones possible.”

Todd M. Erling, executive director of Hudson Valley AgriBusiness Development Corp., said, “HVADC appreciates the opportunity to play a role in this effort and to support our network of producers and local food companies. HVEDC has taken a key step in convening the diverse representation of food and beverage companies in the Hudson Valley and we recognize their effort to incorporate the valley’s local growers.”

Ralph A. Martinelli, vice president of Today Media and publisher of Westchester Magazine, Westchester Home, 914INC., Westchester Weddings, Hudson Valley Magazine, said: “Hudson Valley Magazine and Westchester Magazine are happy to be the print media sponsor for the HV Food and Beverage Alliance. What a great opportunity to bring together and market the abundance of food and beverage companies in the Hudson Valley region. Our magazines look forward to promoting and getting the message out about this alliance and bringing together these food and beverage companies. We will help to bring together many of these businesses who may not know some of their neighbors in this industry in our region. We feel strongly that this industry is poised for major growth of the next few years.”

Catherine A. Maloney, acting president and CEO of Dutchess County Economic Development Corp. (DCEDC), said, “DCEDC is pleased to be partnering with HVEDC in this collaborative effort. Highlighting businesses in this sector makes good business sense and kicking off the event at The Culinary Institute makes sense for the Hudson Valley.”

Mary Kay Vrba, director of Dutchess County Tourism, said, “The Hudson River Valley is rich in the history of food and beverages and many visitors come because of the quality of food that we have to offer and I am happy that HVEDC is creating partnerships to increase the focus on farm producers and their products and to increase vitality of food and beverage industry in the Hudson Valley.”

Lance Matteson, president of Ulster County Development Corp., said: “People are paying a lot of attention to what they eat and drink and the Hudson Valley Food & Beverage Alliance has the potential to greatly increase the regional business opportunities springing from this fact. Ulster County has a dynamic food and beverage sector, so UCDC is delighted to participate in this timely initiative.”

About Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation (HVEDC)

HVEDC represents seven counties in Hudson Valley. This public-private partnership markets the region as a prime business location to corporate executives, site selection consultants and real estate brokers. HVEDC also helped start the branding and promotional effort for NY BioHud Valley. For more information on Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation or to review available business sites, visit www.hvedc.com or call CEO Mike Oates at 845-220-2244.

Mr. Morgan recently rejoined the firm as senior counsel with practice in municipal law, land use, development law and related areas. [...]]]> Walden, N.Y. (February 1, 2012) – Jacobowitz & Gubits is pleased to announce that G. Brian Morgan has been named co-chair of the Legislative Committee, New York State Bar Association Municipal Law Section.

Mr. Morgan recently rejoined the firm as senior counsel with practice in municipal law, land use, development law and related areas. His extensive background in municipal law also includes positions as chief counsel to the City of Poughkeepsie and as attorney for numerous towns and municipalities in the Hudson Valley. He also worked with the Dutchess County District Attorney.

“We are proud that the Municipal Law Section has recognized Brian’s expertise and commitment to the New York State Bar Association with his appointment as co-chair of the Legislative Committee,” said Gerald Jacobowitz, senior partner at Jacobowitz & Gubits.

Mr.  Morgan is also past president of the Dutchess County Bar Association and serves on the Board of Directors of the Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation. He has served as vice-chairman on the Board of Directors of the Dutchess County Arts Council. In 2011, Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress named Mr. Morgan a Pattern for Progress Fellow, based on his professional achievements in support of the decontamination and redevelopment of urban waterfronts along the Hudson River.

About Jacobowitz & Gubits, LLP

Jacobowitz & Gubits, LLP, was founded in 1963 to provide sophisticated legal representation to businesses and individuals throughout the Mid-Hudson Valley and the state of New York. The solo firm established by Gerald N. Jacobowitz has grown into a practice with 28 attorneys and a full staff of paralegals and legal assistants to service a growing and dynamic client base.

Jacobowitz & Gubits, LLP, handles a wide range of legal issues including business litigation, commercial real estate, elder law and estate planning, municipal law, land use and zoning, equine law, veterans disability & income, health care law, personal injury, employment, family law, criminal law and bankruptcy.

For further information on the firm of Jacobowitz & Gubits, LLP please visit www.jacobowitz.com or call (845) 778-2121 or (845) 454-6000.

Perrine’s Bridge at night.

Find the right spot this Valentine’s Day – Ulster’s got five of them

KINGSTON, N.Y. (Feb. 1, 2012) – Valentine’s Day will soon be upon us and as is customary during this romantic holiday, many couples will become engaged. Those looking for a unique spot to “pop” the [...]]]>

Perrine’s Bridge at night.

Find the right spot this Valentine’s Day – Ulster’s got five of them

KINGSTON, N.Y. (Feb. 1, 2012) – Valentine’s Day will soon be upon us and as is customary during this romantic holiday, many couples will become engaged. Those looking for a unique spot to “pop” the question should look no further than Ulster County, N.Y., where, with the right bit of planning, those soon to be betrothed will find passionately beautiful outdoor settings guaranteed to leave their love starry-eyed.

Few things are more romantic than a covered bridge and Ulster County has five of them with all but one open to the public. Romeos seeking these quixotic locations need not travel too far – one of them can be found 10 minutes outside of New Paltz in the town of Esopus. Perrine’s Bridge, a 154-foot single span Burr Arch bridge built in 1844 and fully restored in 1992 is perched over the Wallkill River on Route 213 as it heads toward Kingston. Closed to vehicular traffic, its convenient parking lot and lovely little park make this the perfect spot to ask for someone’s hand on a moonlit night.

The Olive or Turnwood Bridge, located on the grounds of the Ashokan Center in Olivebridge is another easy-to-find historic covered bridge. The center is a green, sustainable learning community dedicated to allowing visitors to experience nature, history and the arts. It also happens to host weddings.  The bridge, a town lattice design, is a 62-foot long, single-span structure crossing the old channel of the Esopus Creek that was built in 1889 and moved to its current location in 1930.

The remaining two bridges can be found in the Town of Hardenburgh, in the northwestern corner of the county, deep in the Catskill Mountains. This remote, rural area is home to five of the Catskills’ 35 high peaks and the only way into this Ulster County town is through Sullivan or Delaware counties.

The Tappan Bridge, in North Seager (a tiny hamlet in Ulster County), can be found southeast of Arkville off Dry Brook Road, crossing Dry Brook. Built in 1870 by Jerome Moot this King Truss, 43-foot long, single-span bridge is open to vehicular traffic with a few pull-offs nearby for parking (for directions to all bridges see below).

The Grants Mills Bridge, on Mill Brook Road just across the Delaware-Ulster County line, is also in Hardenburgh. Built in 1902 and completely rehabilitated in 1992, this 66-foot historic covered bridge is closed to vehicular traffic. Parking spaces near the bridge make this an easy place to access.

In addition to historic covered bridges, Ulster County has two romantic shelters, which look like but are not actually, authentic covered bridges. The easiest of these to access, The Friendship Manor Covered Bridge, serves as the entrance to the Belleayre Mountain Day Use Area at the base of Belleayre Mountain in the hamlet of Pine Hill. The 72-foot long, single-span carries Lake Street over Birch Creek. The other, Meyers Bridge, is mile from the Tappan Bridge.

DIRECTIONS

Perrine’s Bridge

From NYS Thruway Exit 18 turn left onto Route 299 West/Main Street. Remain on Main Street. At fourth light turn right onto Route 32 NY/North Chestnut Street for 4.9 miles. Turn right onto Route 213 East. Parking on right and park on left.

The Olive or Turnwood Bridge

From NYS Thruway Exit 19 at the traffic circle take the third exit to NY-28 West for 11.5 miles to the hamlet of Shokan. Turn left at Winchell’s Pizza onto Reservoir Road. Follow road across Ashokan Reservoir Bridge and turn left at the ‘T’ onto Monument Road. Stay on Monument Road/Route 28A to second left (past DEP Police Station) onto Beaverkill Road. Continue for 1 mile to Ashokan Center.

Tappan Bridge

From NYS Thruway Exit 19 Kingston at the traffic circle, take the third exit onto NY-28 W to Arkville to Dry Brook Road. Remain on Dry Brook Road/County Route 49 for 8.5 miles. Bridge will be on left.

Grants Mills Bridge

From NYS Thruway Exit 19 Kingston at the traffic circle, take the third exit onto NY-28 West for 35.0 miles. Turn left onto County Road 49A/Gelli Curci Road (see signs for Belleayre Mountain). Remain on road for 1.5 miles to a slight left onto High Mount-Mapledale Road. Take that 0.2 miles and continue on onto County Road 49A/Gelli Curci Road for 1.6 miles. Take slight left onto Todd Mountain Road and follow for 2.2 miles to a left onto County Road 49/Dry Brook Road Remain on Dry Brook Road for 1.4 miles. Turn right onto Mill Brook Road for 3.3 mile. Bridge will be on right.

Meyers Bridge

Built in 1990, this bridge is actually a steel stringer bridge with a concrete deck. It is in Ulster County just one mile from the Tappan Bridge. This is a strange looking covered bridge; it’s height is out of proportion to historical covered bridges because higher clearance was required. A large skew angle is also unusual.

The Friendship Manor Covered Bridge

From NYS Thruway Exit 19 Kingston at the traffic circle, take the third exit onto NY-28 West for 33.0 miles. Turn left onto Friendship Manor Road, then right onto Lake Street.

OTHER ROMANTIC SPOTS

Awosting Falls, Minnewaska State Park, Route 44/55, New Paltz, NY; 845-255-0752; http://nysparks.com/parks/127/details.aspx

With three crystalline sky lakes, 35 miles of carriage trails and 25 miles of hiking trails, pretty much anyplace here is a great place to propose but by far the most breathtaking is Awosting Falls. Just a short walk from the main entrance is a 60-foot waterfall dropping off into a rock shrouded pool surrounded by the forest.

Ice Rink at Mohonk Mountain House, 1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz, NY  12561; 800-772-6646, 845-255-1000; info@mohonk.com; www.mohonk.com

A 9,375-square-foot refrigerated ice rink, one of the largest in the Hudson Valley, under a beautiful wooden pavilion. The 39-foot-tall stone fireplace makes it the perfect place to cuddle up before asking the question.

Kaleidostore, 5340 Route 28, Mt. Tremper, NY  12457; 845-688-5800; info@emersonresort.com; www.emersonresort.com

Why not take your sweetie to the world’s largest kaleidoscope located at the Emerson Country Store at The Emerson in Mount Tremper? Catch one of their stunning Kaleidoshows running daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. where visitors lay on the floor in the dark and enjoy the mesmerizing sites created by this incredible kaleidoscope. When the lights come on have the love of your life be stunned by more than just the show.

OTHER UNIQUE IDEAS

Catskill Animal Sanctuary, 316 Old Stage Road, Saugerties, NY  12477; 845-336-8447; info@casanctuary.org; www.casanctuary.org

This haven for abused horses and farm animals featuring 200 animals of 12 different species will send a Valentine’s postcard to the one you love.  For $5 CAS will send a postcard featuring a kiss from Franklin the pig with your custom message.

The Guest House At Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary, 35 Van Wagner Road, Willow, NY  12495; 845-679-5955; info@woodstocksanctuary.org; www.WoodstockSanctuary.org

“A Room With a Moo Valentine’s Day Special”: After more than a year of eco-friendly renovations to their pre-Civil War farmhouse, Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary is proud to present their new, über-charming B&B. The Guesthouse offers a hearty, serve-yourself vegan continental breakfast, the luxury of restored claw foot tubs with showers, free WiFi, live rooster “alarm clocks” next door – with all of our other wonderful rescued farm animal friends just steps away! All profits earned go directly to the care of the organization’s 200-plus rescued farm animals and their advocacy work on behalf of farmed animals everywhere.

Valentine’s Week Special: From February 10-16 book a night and you’ll receive a box of Cocoa-V Chocolates and a certificate for 15 percent off dinner at Woodstock’s Garden Cafe (2 night minimum for Fri/Sat/Sun night stays).

“We’re very pleased to have Will on board,” said Kevin Wolford, general manager at Crowne Plaza Suffern. “His [...]]]> SUFFERN, N.Y. (January 31, 2012) – Crowne Plaza Suffern is proud to announce the appointment of Will Adamo to Director of Sales. Adamo has nearly 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry in multiple departments.

“We’re very pleased to have Will on board,” said Kevin Wolford, general manager at Crowne Plaza Suffern. “His experience in the hospitality and marketing realms in numerous markets and positions will certainly prove to be great assets to our marketing and sales team.”

Adamo, of Ridgefield, N.J., came to Crowne Plaza Suffern from a career with Interstate Hotels & Resorts, the management company of Sheraton Mahwah Hotel. He started with Interstate in 1995 and joined the management team at Sheraton Mahwah in June 2003.

During this time, Adamo took an active role in the Mahwah Regional Chamber of Commerce as Vice President of Events and held positions in numerous committees. He also started the Adopt a Family program, which provides a local family with a memorable holiday experience, and incorporated it as part of the Chamber’s Outreach program. In addition, he has spearheaded several community outreach initiatives for the Sheraton Mahwah Hotel, such as Socks for Soldiers and Hams for the Center for Food Action.

Prior to joining the Sheraton in Mahwah, Adamo held the same position at the Sheraton Anchorage Hotel in Anchorage, Ala. He has also worked in Durham, N.C., and Lebanon, N.H., where he held a seat on the Board of Directors for the Greater Lebanon Chamber of Commerce.

Adamo carries a Bachelor of Arts in Hotel Restaurant Management from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He is a current member of numerous business organizations, including Global Travel Organization, Meeting Professional International and Rockland Business Association.

Crowne Plaza Suffern is conveniently located just off New York Thruway Exit 14B, close to Woodbury Common Premium Outlets and an hour from New York City. Lined with sleek, modern elegance, the hotel features three elegant ballrooms with accommodations for up to 600 guests, a world-class banquet service and more. Shuttle bus service is available to Stewart International Airport and Westchester County Airport, both of which are about 30 minutes from the hotel.

For more information, call (845) 357-4800 or visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CrownePlazaSuffern

Michael Bonura

Bonura Hospitality Group joins Hudson Valley Food & Beverage Alliance

NEW WINDSOR, N.Y. (Jan. 30, 2012) – One of the region’s most prominent hospitality management and ownership professionals has joined the board of the Hudson Valley Economic Development Corp (HVEDC).

Michael Bonura, who is a founding partner of Bonura Hospitality [...]]]>

Michael Bonura

Bonura Hospitality Group joins Hudson Valley Food & Beverage Alliance

NEW WINDSOR, N.Y. (Jan. 30, 2012) – One of the region’s most prominent hospitality management and ownership professionals has joined the board of the Hudson Valley Economic Development Corp (HVEDC).

Michael Bonura, who is a founding partner of Bonura Hospitality Group, has over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry. He serves as the general manager of Anthony’s Pier 9, acted as creative director while opening Billy Joe’s Ribworks in Newburgh and a proprietor of Shadows on the Hudson and The Grandview in Poughkeepsie, among others. In addition, he is a successful real estate developer and is actively involved in a number of initiatives within the community.

Bonura Hospitality Group also recently became a founding member of the HVEDC’s latest venture, the Hudson Valley Food & Beverage Alliance. The Alliance focuses on helping food and beverage companies in the region market their products all over the United States.

“We are very pleased to welcome Mr. Bonura to the board of the HVEDC, as he is a highly successful and respected member of the business community in the Hudson Valley,” said Mike Oates, CEO and President of the HVEDC. “He contributes his experience and expertise in all areas of the hospitality industry, and brings a very good perspective on the issues and opportunities facing the hospitality and food and beverage industries in the region. Because of Bonura Hospitality Group’s wide range of ventures, the company is also a perfect fit for the Food & Beverage Alliance.”

The HVEDC works to develop economic growth throughout the Hudson Valley, which includes the counties of Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, Rockland, Orange, Ulster and Sullivan.

“I am very happy to join the board of the HVEDC, and our company looks forward to contributing to the efforts of the Food & Beverage Alliance,” said Bonura. “It is an excellent time for Bonura Hospitality Group to come to the table to move the industry forward because the food and beverage industry here is thriving and will continue to grow and expand.”

In 2011, Bonura received the Next Generation Award from the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce for his work in the region.

About Bonura Hospitality Group

Bonura Hospitality Group is a company that unites the various hospitality outlets operated in the Hudson Valley by the Bonura Family. The company’s ventures include Anthony’s Pier 9, The Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel, The Grandview, Shadows on the Hudson, Shadows Marina, Shadows One, Rolling Greens at Dutchess Golf & Country Club and Billy Joe’s Ribworks. To learn more, visit www.bonurahospitality.com.

About Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation (HVEDC)

HVEDC represents seven counties in Hudson Valley. This public-private partnership markets the region as a prime business location to corporate executives, site selection consultants and real estate brokers. HVEDC also helped start the branding and promotional effort for NY BioHud Valley. For more information on Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation or to review available business sites, visit www.hvedc.com or call CEO Mike Oates at 845-220-2244.

KINGSTON, N.Y. (Jan. 30, 2012) – Whether you want to indulge in fun or romance (or both) or dive into chocolate goodness, there’s sure to be something in Ulster County this Valentine’s Day weekend that will make the holiday one you won’t soon forget.

OCBA Business Development Director Peter Gregory discusses strategy with Orange County Industrial Development Agency Attorney Phil Crotty at the annual Upstate Venture Association of New York (UVANY) Hudson Valley Capital Forum on Wednesday, Jan. 18 at Homewood Suites in New Windsor, N.Y.

Accelerator hosts breakout sessions with capital investment [...]]]>

OCBA Business Development Director Peter Gregory discusses strategy with Orange County Industrial Development Agency Attorney Phil Crotty at the annual Upstate Venture Association of New York (UVANY) Hudson Valley Capital Forum on Wednesday, Jan. 18 at Homewood Suites in New Windsor, N.Y.

Accelerator hosts breakout sessions with capital investment specialists

New Windsor, N.Y. – January 30, 2012 – Orange County Business Accelerator (OCBA) co-sponsored the annual Upstate Venture Association of New York (UVANY) Hudson Valley Capital Forum for the third time in a row – this year adding successful breakout sessions with venture capitalists from around New York State.

On Wednesday, Jan. 18, entrepreneurs, established business owners and those looking to jumpstart ideas into reality packed the Accelerator for its first-time breakout sessions with early-stage investors. Business owners, including Accelerator clients, occupied 20 rooms at the Accelerator throughout the afternoon. The sessions provided for a unique educational opportunity for business owners to meet and network with Upstate and NYC capital providers, legal and accounting firms and others interested in venture and private equity transactions.

“The Accelerator was really buzzing with talent throughout the afternoon,” said OCBA Business Development Director Peter Gregory. “Capital investment experts came from as far as Buffalo and Rochester to discuss investment options with Accelerator clients and other businesses in Orange County. To say it was a success is an understatement.”

Attendees flowed from the Accelerator just down the street to Homewood Suites, also in New Windsor, N.Y., to further network and participate in a forum emceed by Brian Cohen, Chairman of the New York Angels.

Michael DiTullo, managing director at the Accelerator, said, “The Accelerator is truly the Intersection of Capital, Talent and Innovation. Our mission is to continue to provide the talent – our clients and the business people of Orange County – with great capital investment opportunities. We’d like to thank UVANY for bringing the capital experts to Orange County and providing a stream of education to the business community here.”

OCBA, located at 4 Crotty Lane in New Windsor, N.Y. at New York International Plaza at Stewart Airport, is a business incubator program launched by the Orange County Industrial Development Agency (IDA). The incubator, 12,600 square feet of Class A high-tech research and development space, is designed to attract new entrepreneurial investment by providing businesses with below market occupancy costs, a menu of mentoring programs and a high-tech plug-and-play office environment.

For more information, contact:

Orange County Business Accelerator

Michael J. DiTullo

Managing Director

845-220-2208

mditullo@ocaccelerator.com

Founded by a team of risk management experts, CSA² provides information risk management services and risk elimination products. It offers companies and professional organizations a reliable way to [...]]]> New Windsor, N.Y. – January 30, 2012 – Orange County Business Accelerator (OCBA) recently introduced Cyber Security Auditors and Administrators (CSA²) as its newest associate client.

Founded by a team of risk management experts, CSA² provides information risk management services and risk elimination products. It offers companies and professional organizations a reliable way to measure current risk exposure to potential cyber intrusions and to maintain compliance with state and federal laws.

Michael DiTullo, managing director at the Accelerator, said, “The realm of social media has added an element of exposure to companies large and small, and firms like CSA² provide the tools necessary to identify and rectify potential risks. The Accelerator is glad to have them on board and encourage businesses around Orange County to inquire about how they could potentially save your business.”

CSA² provides a variety of services and products, including incident management, computer and mobile forensics.

DiTullo added, “This firm not only diagnoses cyber breaches, but it also lowers the risk of an incident. Here at the Accelerator, we are familiar with driving down risk – it’s one of our principle goals in providing an environment where entrepreneurs and early-stage innovators can thrive.”

OCBA, located at 4 Crotty Lane in New Windsor, N.Y. at New York International Plaza at Stewart Airport, is a business incubator program launched by the Orange County Industrial Development Agency (IDA). The incubator, 12,600 square feet of Class A high-tech research and development space, is designed to attract new entrepreneurial investment by providing businesses with below market occupancy costs, a menu of mentoring programs and a high-tech plug-and-play office environment.

For more information, contact:

Orange County Business Accelerator

Michael J. DiTullo

Managing Director

845-220-2208

mditullo@ocaccelerator.com

Surrounded by friends, families and supporters, The Castle Fun Center owner Brian Leentjes is joined by Town of Chester Supervisor Stefan Neuhaus on Friday, Jan. 27, in cutting the ceremonial ribbon at the all new Event Center at The Castle, a premier entertainment facility located in Chester, N.Y.

With [...]]]>

Surrounded by friends, families and supporters, The Castle Fun Center owner Brian Leentjes is joined by Town of Chester Supervisor Stefan Neuhaus on Friday, Jan. 27, in cutting the ceremonial ribbon at the all new Event Center at The Castle, a premier entertainment facility located in Chester, N.Y.

With over $1 million investment, renovated facility becomes Orange County’s newest entertainment venue

Chester, N.Y. (January 27, 2012) – The Event Center at The Castle, a premier entertainment venue, has officially opened the doors to its multi-faceted facility in Chester, N.Y.

On Friday, Jan. 27, over 50 members of the Orange County business community, along with local and regional public officials, joined the owners of The Castle Fun Center in opening the doors of its new Event Center at The Castle.

“We made a strong investment in a down economy and we’re already seeing success,” said owner Brian Leentjes. “The Event Center just opened and we’re already booked for 33 birthday parties tomorrow and a 200-guest business meeting Monday. Things are certainly looking up.”

Bill Fioravante, Vice President at the Orange County Chamber of Commerce, said, “I’ve heard this place referred to as the Disney World of the North by local businesses. In addition to being a great place for families and kids, it’s now a perfect venue for corporate and nonprofit events, as well. The Chamber applauds their efforts!”

The Event Center at The Castle is the ideal venue for companies, schools, churches, day camps, recreation departments, and other nonprofit organizations seeking a premier venue for their next social function. It features an exciting 5,000 sq. ft. Event Room with state-of-the-art A/V technology, the seasonal Event Grounds and a multi-faceted Event Floor.

The Castle Fun Center has also recently expanded to a 50,000-square-foot indoor area and increased its grounds to 11 acres of outdoor activities for all ages. This space includes the addition of the new Ballocity interactive ball play experience, the only one in the region. The Castle has also extended its offerings to include a newly renovated arcade area and mini bowling lanes, as well.

Leentjes added, “We’re going on offense against an economy that has swallowed up jobs and businesses around the country. This million dollar investment is a proactive measure that has helped The Castle create dozens of jobs and provide a new, innovative venue for businesses and nonprofit organizations.”

About The Castle

Located in the heart of the Hudson Valley region, The Castle Fun Center encompasses 11 acres of year-round, rain-or-shine fun activities for family and group entertainment.  Attractions include Ballocity, Go Carts, Roller Skating, Lazer Tag, Mini Bowling, Bumper Cars, Free Fall, Laser Maze, Arcade, Rock Wall Climbing, Mini Golf, Batting Cages and a Golf Driving Range.

The Event Center at the Castle provides the ideal venue for private social gatherings, company picnics, meetings, shows, ceremonies and more. The 5,000-square-foot Event Room offers a stage and elaborate technology options that can accommodate up to 500 patrons and is complemented by the versatile Event Floor. The outdoor Event Grounds area offers on-site catering, recreation and activities and can host any size outdoor event.

The Castle Fun Center also features the popular Jesters Restaurant & Pub for kids, adults and special events.