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PROGRESS Chenango SECTION 10 2011 Inside Published by The Evening Sun The Council of the Arts is dedicated to showing off the county’s artistic side. PAGE 65 Chenango’s Finest P H O TO BY FRANK SPEZIALE Commerce Chenango Award Winners Revitalization efforts like this one on East Main are key to the City of Norwich’s plans. PAGE 66 Recognizing the best and brightest BY MELISSA STAGNARO were honored by the chamber. “These individuals and businesses strive to do their best for the community and be the best in their industry,” she said. “It is important to recognize them for their contributions and successes; to let them know how much they are appreciated in the community, for what they do keeps Chenango County strong.” The Evening Sun henango County may be rural, but that doesn’t mean there is a lack of business and industry calling these rolling hills home. C This Progress Chenango 2011 edition was brought to you by ... PAGE 69 Fast Facts $65.7M Market value of all agricultural products sold from Chenango County farms, according to the USDA Census of Agriculture. Advertisers in Section 10 Cars & Credit Chenango Valley Technologies Dr. William Graber Enlightened Dentistry The Evening Sun Great Brook Solar Peggy Parker Real Estate Sew Nice Smith Ford LLC Thymely Treasures The wealth and diversity of small businesses, entrepreneurs, major employers, active non-profits and dedicated volunteers are the backbone of the local economy and contribute to the overall quality of life in the region. “Chenango County is very fortunate to have many businesses that help to drive our economy and make this a place we are all proud to live and work,” said Commerce Chenango President and CEO Maureen Carpenter. Carpenter’s organization makes a point of recognizing the entrepreneurial spirit, expertise and contributions of the business community each year. Presenting these awards has become the focal point of three of the chamber’s annual events: Commerce Chenango’s Annual Dinner, Commerce Chenango CEO Maureen Carpenter and former Board of Directors Chairman Bruce Erath flank 2010’s award winners, Gary Brightman (Commitment to Community), Michelle Manwarren (Employee of the Year) and Raymond Corporation CEO Jim Malvaso (Distinguished Business of the Year). Membership Luncheon and the Salute to Small Business. For Kevin Walsh, chairman of the Commerce Chenango board of directors, it is these business and community recognition events which he personally finds most rewarding about the organization. “I have taken a great deal of satisfaction and enjoyment in participating in the various award dinners and luncheons that Commerce Chenango organizes throughout the year,” Walsh said. The local realtor said he enjoys not only hearing the story of these businesses and individuals, but also seeing the pride they take in being recognized for accomplishments they’ve “sacrificed and worked so hard for.” “Chenango County is fortunate to possess many successful companies worthy of recognition,” Carpenter. In 2010, a total of eight businesses and five individuals Commerce Chenango’s 51st Annual Dinner The chamber’s awards “season” kicked off with the organization’s 51st Annual Dinner, held on April 14 at the Canasawacta Country Club. During the event, the Distinguished Business of the Year award was presented to Raymond Corporation and Gary Brightman was honored with the Commitment to Community Award. “Often we take for granted the corporate leaders that call Chenango County home and the value of their continued investment in our economy,” Carpenter said, as she CONTINUED ON PAGE 64 DESTINATION: CHENANGO Antique Car Show P H O TO BY FRANK SPEZIALE A bout 10,000 spectators visit the Chenango County Fairgrounds every Memorial Day Weekend as the Rolling Antiquers’ Old Car Club put on their annual Antique Auto Show and flea market. The two-day show, now in its 46th year, features a mix of antique and muscle cars, motorcycles, street rods, antique engines and military vehicles. Saturday’s show focused on the street rods, muscle and sports cars, while Sunday shows off antique and classic automobiles. While the majority of car enthusiasts and spectators hail from the northeast, it’s not unusual to see a wide variety of out-ofstate license plates at the event, from as far away as Colorado, Florida and California. “We always have some folks that come very long distances for the show,” said Rolling Antiquers Vice President Sewain Conklin. “It’s the nature of our show and the quality of the cars that come here to be shown and judged.” The Norwich Merchants Association and Business Improvement District kick things off with a Cruise-In around East and West Parks the Friday night before the show. For more information visit the Rolling Antiquers web site at local.aaca.org/raocc. 64 PROGRESS CHENANGO 2011 PUBLISHED BY THE EVENING SUN Commerce Chenango Award Winners From volunteers to entrepreneurs to CEOs – CONTINUED FROM PAGE 63 recognized the need to acknowledge the many contributions made by the 2010 Distinguished Business of the Year honoree, The Raymond Corporation. “As Chenango County’s largest employer, they have a rich and powerful history,” she reported, describing the company’s 88-year track record of “innovation, leadership and reliability” in the material handling industry. Within the past year, the manufacturer consolidated its operation by closing its Brantford, Ontario and moving the work previously done there to its corporate headquarters in Greene. The transition created a period of rapid growth, and helped the company not only retain 740 existing jobs, but also created 100 new jobs with the promise of more to come. “We’re proud of the accomplishments of The Raymond Corporation and appreciate their continued focus on helping to grow Chenango’s economic future,” the chamber executive said. Also presented at the dinner was the Commitment to Community Award, given this year to local businessman Gary Brightman. The owner of three successful business ventures – Rentals-to-Go, The Storage Center, LLC., and a general contracting firm – Brightman is perhaps best known in the community for his timeless work on behalf of local festivals and events such as Gus Macker and the Pumpkin Festival. “I can’t think of a more deserving recipient of a Commitment to Community Award than Gary Brightman,” Eric Larsen said in his nomination letter. “If every community had someone like him, the world would be a better place.” In addition, Michelle Manwarren of M&T Bank was selected, out of all those who received Employee of the Month recognition in the previous 12 months, as Commerce Chenango’s first Employee of the Year. Annual Membership Luncheon During its 9th annual Membership Appreciation Luncheon, Commerce Chenango recognized two community members, a local business owner and a non-profit organization for their contributions to Chenango County. The event, which took place May 12 at the Fox Run Event Center in Sherburne, was sponsored by Preferred Mutual Insurance Company, GHS Federal Credit Union and Frontier. Those recognized were Volunteer of the Year Award, Betsey Baio; Agricultural Advocate, Sheila Marshman; Woman Owned Business of the Year, Nancy Cushman of Seasons Gift Shop; and NonProfit Agency of the Year, the Northeast Classic Car Museum. According to Carpenter, volunteers like Baio are an asset to the Chenango County. “Betsey cares about her community and is dedicated to finding time for those causes that she feels will impact the community she lives in,” she said. “Like most that volunteer, it’s not about the recognition or the acknowledgment; it’s about making a difference in the quality of life that we all deserve.” Marshman, a professor of Agriculture Business at Morrisville State College, was selected as the Ag Advocate of the Year. Carpenter applauded the Oxford resident for her knowledge of the industry, her commitment to agriculture in Chenango County and her ability to educate and promote agriculture on both a local and global level. “Throughout her entire career and in her personal life, Sheila has dedicated her time and efforts towards the advancement of agriculture in Chenango County and New York State,” the chamber executive said. “She has served as an excellent advocate for the area and is driven in her support and development of this sector.” Nancy Cushman, owner of Seasons Gift Shop in Norwich, was this year’s recipient of the Woman-Owned Business of the Year award. Located on South Broad Street, the shop specializes in seasonal gifts, home decorating items, gourmet foods and stationery. “Nancy ...was chosen to receive this award because of her commitment to Chenango County and her ability to provide a unique service to our area,” reported Carpenter, who commended Cushman for her 13 years of providing exceptional customer service and unique gift items to the local community. The Northeast Classic Car Museum was named NonProfit Agency of the Year. Founded in 1997, the Rexford Commerce Chenango honored two community members, a local business owner and a nonprofit organization during it’s Annual Membership Luncheon, held in May at the Fox Run Event Center in Sherburne. Pictured from left is Kevin Walsh, Chairman of Commerce Chenango’s Board of Directors; Nancy Cushman of Seasons Gift Shop, recipient of the Woman Owned Business of the Year award; Northeast Classic Car Museum Executive Director Doreen Bates and Board of Trustees President Sewain Conklin, recipients of the Non Profit Agency of the Year Award; Volunteer of the Year Betsey Baio; Agriculture Advocate of the Year Sheila Marshman; and Commerce Chenango President Maureen Carpenter. Commerce Chenango recognized six local small businesses during its 2010 Annual Salute to Small Business Dinnerin November at the Canasawacta Country Club. Pictured are Commerce Chenango Chairman Kevin Walsh; Commerce Chenango President & CEO Maureen Carpenter; Small Business Gem recipient Dee Osterhout of B&D Pool and Spa; Entrepreneur of the Year Jim Fowler of Sherburne Big M; David B. Emerson and Neil Bartle of Blueox Corporation, Small Business of the Year; Small Business Gem recipient Gary Kurz of The Silo Restaurant; and Small Business Gem recipients Lorraine Detweiler and Ron Rapp of Rapp Signs, Inc. Not pictured: John Killean of Chentronics Corporation, Small Business Manufacturer of the Year. Street museum currently houses more than 150 classic automobiles in its five buildings, including the world’s largest collection of Franklin Luxury Cars. Many of the vehicles on display are part of the Staley Collection, owned by George Staley of Lincklaen. “The Northeast Classic Car Museum ... boasts a collection of some of the finest and most interesting automobiles ever produced in America,” Carpenter said. Salute to Small Business Small businesses and the entrepreneurial spirit in which they are founded are the true backbone of the Chenango County economy, according to Carpenter. This year, Commerce Chenango honored six local business which fall into this category during the Annual Salute to Small Business Dinner, held Nov. 30 at Canasawacta Country Club. The 2010 recipients of the Small Business Gems, Entrepreneur of the Year, Small Business Manufacturer of the Year and Small Business of the Year awards were recognized at the event, which was sponsored by NBT Bank, Mang Insurance, Frontier and Golden Artist Colors. Three businesses were selected receive this year’s Small Business Gem award: B&D Pool and Spa, LLC. in Norwich; Rapp Signs, Inc. in Greene; and The Silo Restaurant in Coventry. “These Gems manage their organizations with pride and achieve success in different ways,” explained Carpenter. B&D Pool and Spa, was started in 1976 by Don and Beth Osterhout and remains a family affair. It operates two locations - its headquarters in Norwich and a second location in Sidney - and serves customers throughout Chenango as well as in neigh- boring Broome, Otsego and Delaware Counties. Rapp Signs, Inc. began with just one employee in 1954, when John Rapp started the business in Hawthorn, NJ. Rapp relocated both the business and his family to Greene in 1972, and continued to grow the sign company. Since his death in 2005, his children have followed in his footsteps. Today, Rapp Signs has 12 employees and has a customer base which includes companies across New York State as well as in Northern Pennsylvania and Eastern Vermont. Coventry restaurateur Gary Kurz, owner of The Silo Restaurant, also received the Small Business Gem award. According to Carpenter, the fine-dining establishment’s idyllic country setting makes it a favorite wedding and event destination. They routinely host fifty to sixty events per year, and are well known for their Sunday brunch, and Friday night surf and turf buffet. The 2010 Entrepreneur of the Year award - affectionately known as “the Sammy” in honor of Golden Artist Colors founder Sam Golden - was presented to Jim Fowler, owner of the Sherburne Big M Supermarket. Carpenter said Fowler was 14 when he first started working at the Sherburne store, which his parents, Roger and Gloria Fowler, purchased in 1973. Since taking over the reins, the lifelong Sherburne resident has continued to run the business “with the same standards, passion, honesty and responsibility” with which his parents founded it. He has also worked to grow the business, in an effort to meet his customers ever changing needs. Including going as so far as to acquire and relocate to the former Victory Markets building across the street from the original Big M store. The chamber also recog- nized Chentronics Corporation as Small Business Manufacturer of the Year. The Norwich-based ignition system manufacturer was founded by Jack McNulty. “Jack’s forte was creative and innovative engineering in the aerospace industry,” Carpenter said, explaining that McNulty worked at Bendix Corporation before founding General Laboratory Associates, which later became Simmonds Precision. “Through research and development in these companies he worked on ignition applications that would appear in turbine engines. Capping off the evening was the presentation of the Small Business of the Year to Blueox Corporation. Over the last six decades, the Oxfordbased company had grown from when it was founded as Thompson Fuel Service into a fuel and energy provider with three fuel locations, 11 area gas stations and convenience stores and 150 employees. Expansion of the business began in earnest after it was purchased by David L. Emerson in 1965. His son David B. Emerson joined the business in 1970, followed by his longtime friend Neil Bartle four years later. Under their leadership, the company grew and evolved. In 1984, they changed the name to Blueox, in recognition of the company’s Oxford’s roots. Since David B. Emerson retired in 1994, Neil Bartle has born the title of president of the organization. “Blueox is not your traditional fuel company,” Carpenter said, explaining that the company strives to offer solutions to their customers, while saving them money and providing exceptional service. “They are proud of how far they’ve come and the reputation they’ve built as an industry leader.” • Jim Shore Folk Art • Flameless Candles • Florals • Linens • Serve Ware And Many Other Items to Enhance Your Home! Thymely Treasures Gifts & Home Decor PUBLISHED BY 65 PROGRESS CHENANGO 2011 THE EVENING SUN Chenango County Council of the Arts Enriching Chenango’s cultural side BY TYLER MURPHY The Evening Sun he Chenango County Council of the Arts celebrated its 35 anniversary in 2010 with a number of world class performances, record breaking events and expanding cultural responsibilities. T The council kicked off its exceptional year in spring with the Chamber Music Series performance of the world acclaimed string group, the Manhattan String Quartet. Arts Council Director Victoria Kappel called the show “one of the most premiere and world renowned performances” the not-for profit organization has ever hosted. The 2010 Chamber Music Series also featured the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet and the Star Trio. Perhaps one of the most popular and original performances of 2010 occurred in October when the Arts Council hosted the talents of its first ever illusionist, Jason Bishop. Bishop is the youngest person to win the Magician’s Alliance of Eastern States Stage Award and one of the youngest to compete in the Society of American Magicians World-Class competition. He tours across the United States and his show combines the mysterious and the technological by using large LCD screens to zoom in and capture his award winning The Arts Council isn’t just stage shows and gallery exhibits – the 2010 Allegro Run for the Arts attracted a record number of racers this year. sleight of hand. “People just absolutely loved it,” said Kappel, adding the show sold out. Other 2010 shows included in the People’s Choice Series were Druid, featuring the Three Irish Tenors and Tom Chapin and Friends, who have captivated audiences for more than three decades. The CCCA also hosted performances by Celtic Crossroads and Jim Witter’s “Christmas Memories.” In the world of art, the Arts Council exhibited six gallery shows in 2010 and among them were three popular, returning shows. It’s been 10 years since a fatal car accident took the lives Norwich graduates Rachel Nargiso, Emily Collins and Katie Almeter, along with Troy native Kevin King. Yet the exhibit titled, “Friends: One Day, One Wrong Turn,” has lived on in the wake of the tragedy as a poignant reminder of the consequences of drinking and driving. The four were killed Nov. 11, 2000 when the drunk driver they were riding with lost control and struck a tree on the Colgate University campus in Hamilton. The returning exhibit was displayed at the West Main Street gallery in May as students prepared for prom and graduation. In September, Kappel said the gallery welcomed back another popular exhibit, “Still Creating II: The Artistry of Long-Term Care Residents.” The show was first put on in 2008, as an opportunity for residents to express their artistic talents and creativity through a variety of mediums, explained CCCA Oper- ations and Program Director Joyce Zummo. “It emphasizes the value we put on our seniors and they’re a resource that our children and grandchildren need to experience. They tell the best stories,” she said. About 20 long-term care residents from facilities across the county contributed to the exhibit. Another gallery show welcomed back Best Show of 2009 winner Henry Drexler. Other exhibits included works by Raymond Sahtila, a student exhibit called Artistic Discovery, photography by Chris Oralls and the annual CCCA members show. The council’s current gallery exhibit features the works of Jill Kraft and Catrina Phetteplace, including photography and artwork, until Feb. 11. Design & Tooling On May 1, the council’s 9th annual 5k Allegro Run for the Arts saw a recording-breaking 194 entries. Kappel said the race was dedicated to the memory of Brian Rex Conant, the winner of the first Allegro. Conant was killed in a tragic car accident in July of 2009. “People were very touched many friends and family turned out to show their support,” said Kappel. In November, a biannual fundraiser broke another attendance record. The 2010 International Bazaar gala at the Canasawacta Country Club raised money through a number of silent auctions and offered guests a variety of international foods and dancing. “It was a great success with more people than we’ve ever had before attending,” said Kappel. Proceeds from the events go to the CCCA’s cultural programming, including the performance and chamber music series, gallery exhibits, funding opportunities for teachers, artists and other programs. While the Arts Council provides for a number of these programs through local funding, another vital role the organization plays is administering state cultural grants to not-for-profit organizations in Chenango and Broome counties. In 2010, these grants totaled $53,450. The decentralization grants are distributed to smaller scale arts-related activities in rural areas. Though adminis- tered by the CCCA, each county has its own panel to award the funds and the grants are issue by the New York State Council of the Arts with specific amounts designated by county. Altogether, the Arts Council distributed the 2010 funds to 35 different not-for profit groups. Heading into 2011, the CCCA has now been made the regional decentralization coordinator for Broome, Chenango and Otsego counties. The 2011 grants will include $18,826 for Broome, $28,844 for Chenango and $25,000 for Otsego. The grants are available to all non-profit organizations, municipalities and artists sponsored by a non-profit. The funds contribute to several local events and organizations including Colorscape, the Blues Festival, the Smyrna Citizens Band and programs at various libraries and churches throughout the county. In May, the CCCA announced the awards for the annual Grants for Teachers program for the 2010-2011 school year. Kappel said the program awards up to $500 to 14 different classrooms conducting art-related educational projects. The Arts Council handed out $4,325 in this year’s program. “This program is great because it’s simple, and you get the most ‘bang for your buck’ when it comes to getting funds out directly to the community, ” she said. 66 PROGRESS CHENANGO 2011 PUBLISHED BY THE EVENING SUN The City of Norwich A lively year in the county seat BY BRIAN GOLDEN city to be a partner and support each and every project that makes its way into Norwich. For example, the $500,000 awarded to the Business Improvement District through the Main Street Grant program. BID Executive Director Pegi LoPresti stated the city was fundamental to the organization’s procurement of the grant money. “We are so thankful that, once again, the City of Norwich stepped forward to help us with this,” she added. The mayor cited the importance of “investing in our own city” and said he’s excited to see the end result. Even at times when the local populace disagreed with city officials over a certain decision or plan of action, Maiurano remarked that their opinions were extremely valuable. When the topic of moving City Hall offices to the adjacent Fire Department cropped up once again in 2010, the mayor said the citizens of Norwich got their message across. “Sometimes you have to do what the people want you to do and it’s important to remember this city doesn’t belong to the mayor or the Common Council. It’s the peoples’ community and keeping City Hall in the Train Depot is what they wanted,” said the mayor. “We’re happy to serve them when they make their wishes known to us, we try our best to present them with all of the available options and weigh the public opinion and we want to know what the people think.” In October of 2010, the city The Evening Sun aced with the recent recession and the difficult economic scenario it created for every community across the nation, the City of Norwich came out ahead in the end. F While the challenges of 2010 were numerous, Mayor Joseph Maiurano said he’s pleased with the results of the city’s efforts throughout the year. The mayor was particularly happy that so many new businesses made their way into Norwich and the fact that most, if not all, seem to be thriving. “Businesses come and go, there’s no doubt about it,” said Maiurano. “However, in 2010, we saw more businesses coming rather than going, and that’s exciting. It’s great to see our city come out on top following such an economically rough patch.” Restore NY In addition, many city projects – some years in development – finally reached completion, including the construction and subsequent sale of three Restore NY properties. Located on Grove Avenue and Fair and Waite Streets, the once burned-out and dilapidated homes were replaced with a trio of energy-efficient, one-family dwellings. “These residences only aid in the revitalization of all three neighborhoods and it’s really a reinvestment into the community,” said City of Norwich Code Enforcement Officer Jason Lawrence. “It’s now a better, and safer, area to call home.” The mayor concurred and said completion of the project had added value not only to the properties themselves, but those surrounding it as well. A third round of Restore NY grant money is currently being utilized in the renovations at 24 East Main St. and that project is slated for completion in the spring, reported Lawrence. “Bringing back such a historic structure was important for the city and I think it’s going to be a beautiful building once completed,” added the mayor. Another reconstruction project at 49 Front St. is also well underway, said Lawrence, which partnered the city with a group of BOCES students hailing from all parts of the county. The structure has come a long way since work first began in the fall of 2010 and it’s expected to be completed sometime in the spring of 2012, and maybe sooner. “They’ve come a long way in such a short period of time, there’s no doubt about it,” stated Lawrence. “The students are learning so much and that benefits not only Norwich, but their own communities as well.” Tops & Byrne Dairy be simply amazing. In a similar vein, Byrne Dairy parent company Sonbyrne Sales, Inc., in December, announced the purchase of four parcels of land on the corner of Silver and East Main Streets for the construction of a new, 24-hour convenience store, laundromat and self-service gas station. “This is just one more positive addition to downtown Norwich and it’s great to see a company that’s been here for decades willing to reinvest in our community,” said Maiurano. “I think that’s very important for several reasons – economically, providing jobs and services, not to mention a gas station located here in the city.” Lawrence said he believes the addition of a 24-hour convenience store will be another plus for city residents. The approximately $2 million project, which is slated for completion sometime in May, will replace the current Byrne Dairy adjacent to the Fire Department. City residents’ concern over the lack of a downtown grocery following Tops Friendly Markets’ acquisition of the Penn Traffic-owned P&C chain in late January of 2010 were erased when the official grand opening of the completely renovated store took place on November 4 of last year. “I think everyone involved with the return of Tops realized just how important it is for this city to have a downtown grocery,” said the mayor. “It’s also great to see how community-based they are and they seem truly committed to our city.” Lawrence commented on the number of downtown residents, especially seniors, who lack their own vehicle Investing and either walk to Tops or rely on public transportation. in the city Mayor Maiurano said he Inside the store itself, he said he found the many changes to felt it a responsibility of the launched its Renew Norwich website, designed to give city, town and county residents an easy way to access information on energy efficiency and a greener community. The site has received extremely positive feedback to date, reported Lawrence, and people are saving money in simple ways, such as the installation of a programmable digital thermostat. “It’s amazing the little things people can find on the site and how much they can save,” he added. “Even local contractors are taking advantage of it, seeking savings for their clients.” The mayor said he hoped more and more county residents will visit the website, www.renewnorwich.com, in the coming year and called it an invaluable resource. For 2011, city officials will work toward the establishment of student housing for the Norwich Branch of Morrisville State College – in an effort to increase enrollment there – and take advantage of the recently awarded NYSERDA grant for energysaving installations in various city properties. Maiurano said he’s eagerly anticipating the completion of the new Byrne Dairy and is excited for the final results of NYSEG’s decontamination efforts on Front Street. “We’ll continue to provide needed services to the public and we’re looking forward to a great 2011,” said the mayor. For more information on the City of Norwich visit www.norwichny.net. Your Local Hometown Real Estate Pros. You, Your Friends and Relatives Deserve THE BEST! Kevin Walsh Managing Broker 607-226-8880 Gretchen Walsh, GRI Broker/Owner 607-226-2442 Peggy Parker, SRES Broker 607-336-3636 Buying Or Selling Real Estate... Surround Yourself With These Professionals! Tim Thompson Licensed Salesperson 607-244-5105 ll a C s y a w Al Patrick McNeil Associate Broker 607-226-1148 Debbie Sutton Licensed Salesperson 607-226-0663 Adam Bosworth Associate Broker 607-226-7926 6146 St. Hwy. 12 Norwich, NY 13815 (607) 336-3636 e-mail: [email protected] Laurie Bliss Licensed Salesperson 607-316-2340 Our sales team is here to serve you with top quality service from beginning to close. Celebrating over 20 years in business! Visit our All New Website at www.peggyparkerrealestate.com PUBLISHED BY 67 PROGRESS CHENANGO 2011 THE EVENING SUN Norse Energy Inc. Technological problems force scale back, but joint ventures secured to resume drilling 30 new wells in 2011 BY MELISSA DECORDOVA The Evening Sun he past year proved challenging for the natural gas driller Norse Energy Inc., and not only due to New York’s moratorium on permitting future wells that require high water volume hydraulic fracturing. T Unexpected, large quantities of water encountered at a well site in Plymouth during the first quarter of 2010 forced the Norwegian energy company to abandon exploration of the Herkimer Sandstone in Chenango County for six months. No new production came online for another three. Norse successfully reached its production target of 12 million cubic feet of natural gas for the Central New York region in 2009, but slipped to less than 7 million cubic feet, or 7,000 mcf, last year. Five Herkimer wells were drilled instead of the 30 projected. Norse used the time to evaluate what had happened, embarking on new 3-D seismic testing over more than 30,000 acres in the summer, and, in late October, resumed drilling. The company has one large rig in operation currently and expects to add a second rig in late summer, according to Regulatory Compliance Department Spokesman Dennis Holbrook. “We took an aggressive response to the surprise we encountered. Our production was reduced dramatically and quite quickly,” he said. Late in 2010, Norse entered joint ventures with Stryker Energy, LLC, and Bradford Energy Capital, LLC, both Appalachian Basin oil and gas operators, to acquire working capital for the 30 new wells planned this year. The partners provide the company with an attractive return on its early investment in Central New York, and further advances development of its 180,000 acreage position. “Accelerated Herkimer development will also benefit many of our lease holders who will receive royalty payments from Herkimer production wells,” said Norse Energy, Inc. Chief Executive Officer Mark Dice. Norse Energy spent 15 years researching and exploring the natural gas deposits found in multiple formations beneath Chenango County, and neighboring Madison County, before zeroing in on the region in about 2006. It had initially targeted Western New York, drilling thousands of wells there and building pipeline. The Chenango County Planning Department reports that the company has 28 active wells in Smyrna, six in Plymouth, two in Preston and between 10 and 15 pending permits. Last year, Norse completed a new pipeline interconnection arrangement with Dominion Transmission pipelines located near Morrisville. The tap added to its existing 20 plus mile long main trunk line and provides Norse Energy with additional capacity to support the expected ramp up in production from the Herkimer sandstone. The company is currently moving gas to market north via the Dominion and Tennessee pipelines and west through a New York State Electric and Gas line. More than 100 wells are already in various stages of completion, capped and/or producing. The company is actively extending what it hopes will ultimately become an 80-mile transportation and gathering system. It costs about $1 million per mile to lay the main, 12 inch pipeline. The company has invested more than $100 million on natural gas production here, including $73 million in 2008, $40 million in 2009, and $10 million in 2010, said Holbrook. “That would be conservative, and is on top of the amount paid out in real property taxes and royalties to landowners,” he added. Although production varies at each well, with the current price of $4.50 per million btu, Success Stories The Parson’s Daughter Preparing to open a shop and become a business owner can be likened to a pregnancy, parenthood or mothering. Feeling excited! Feeling fear!! Feeling capable, then naive. Talking to experienced and respected practitioners to stay grounded and healthy then swept away by excitement and anticipation not knowing where or how to land. And at some moment realizing there is no mind changing and backing out. An entrepreneur is born! Sharon Jeffer, owner and nurturer of The Parson’s Daughter, has a quiet aura of satisfaction and pride. “And now my ‘baby’ is in her ninth year! Wow!” Musing about all the natural accomplishments of a child: rolling over, toddling, putting words and phrases together, starting school, loosing a tooth, learning to read ....”and already in fourth grade.” Owning a business is an awesome yet exhilarating responsibility: not only satisfying customers but also those who have invested in your adventure along with the commitments of being a valuable and visible part of the community. “Retailing has taught me greatly,” says Sharon. “I’ve better learned to meet the needs of others, self-discipline and the process of selfinquiry have been heightened, and being insightful enough to make changes. I have a serene passion for what I do. My riches aren’t necessarily in the bank.” Small businesses and owners are the pulse and heartbeat of downtown. It’s a dream to unlock into candyland every day. It’s divine to eat chocolate spontaneously. It’s a privilege and endorsement to have loyal customers who appreciate personal service and have discerning taste. “Last year was an honor roll year for The Parson’s Daughter,” says Jeffer. This sweet and stand-out shop is not only interesting but interested: in the community, customers and product lines and the number of candles on the cake. It helps that being surrounded by decadent chocolates is for the young at heart and the enjoyment of sweetness knows no age. “Yes! Chocolate is the answer and a delicious pleasantry, but to be myself is perhaps the greatest gift I give to my customers: my integrity and honor and magic of inspiration come forth,” says Sharon. “After all, fine chocolates are authentic and they deserve that from me; imitations are waxy.” Looking forward to another year of fine chocolates and gift items, satisfied customers and success is what you can expect at 6 West Park Place. royalties generated over the life of a well (about 20 to 25 years) could top $660,000 per well unit paid to landowners. Holbrook explained that even though the price has dropped drastically – it was about $7 per million btu last year and close to $14 in the summer of 2008 – the industry is mandated to pay a rolling, five-year average in property taxes. “So we are still paying real property values based on really high prices in 2008 that got as high as the low teens,” he said. “I would suspect that in Madison and Chenango counties, if we are not the largest private real property tax payer, we’ve go to be close.” Dice confirmed that Norse paid close to $1 million in real property taxes in Chenango County last year. Both executives said they would like that number to be much higher if given the opportunity. While the Herkimer, Oneida and Oswego sandstones are the company’s aim currently, future plans, regulations permitting, include either developing the natural gas found in fissures of the Marcellus and Utica shales, or partnering with another company to do so. While the Herkimer has potential reserves of 500 billion cubic feet of natural gas, it’s the much larger motherlode in the shales that the company hopes to one day develop. Experts estimate the Marcellus Shale, which stretches from Ohio, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and up into Central New York, contains 363 trillion cubic feet of the recoverable resource, or enough to fuel the entire county’s energy consumption needs for 14 years. Chenango County is on what’s called the western slope of the northern slope of the Marcellus Play, where the gas is reportedly richer, better and dryer than in Pennsylvania and West Virginia where natural gas production is already underway. As reported nearly daily in the media throughout the country, the New York State governor’s office has pushed off release of the Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) permitting regulations for shales until July. The executive order was in response to environmentalists’ fears that fracturing fluid runoff threatens the water aquifer. But while the actions haven’t directly applied to Norse, because the company is not fracturing shale, the highly-charged argument against drilling isn’t making conducting business in New York any easier for them. Dice said the company regularly consults with DEC monitors at well sites. “Since we are the only player out there right now in New York, we’ve become something like bosom buddies with the DEC. They are watching everything we’re doing. We have a high regard for the professionalism of the DEC and support what they do. A healthy, safe environment has to be and always will be our number one priority,” said Dice. However, the executive said management in Norway is always asking whether New York State is open for business. “We believe that as a partner, that environmental protection is absolutely a top priority, but we also believe that high volume hydraulic fracturing is safe and can be used safely to develop shale resources. We are disappointed that we are prevented from doing that in the state of New York,” he said. The Independent Oil and Gas Association of New York reports that thousands of DEC permitted natural gas wells have been hydraulically fractured in the state for the past 50 years without contamination. Holbrook said New York’s environmental regulators have some of the most stringent rules on drilling in the country, and the DEC’s draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement will regulate in any possible questions. “The specs for cementing and the number of casings are already far more stringent than other states have,” he said. Norse is in a very unique position. While an awful lot of drillers in the state are waiting on the drilling regulations to be adopted, the company is the most active party: Continually exploring, already paying significant royalties and tax revenues, and providing energy. But on the flip side, Dice said New York’s nearly threeyear ban on drilling into shales forces the company to mitigate its losses. “We will be looking to diversify our exploration activity outside of New York,” he said. Norse has executives are meeting more regularly with Chenango County’s economic developers within the Planning and Development Department and at Commerce Chenango. They’ve participated in educational webinars and met with members of The Evening Sun, the Industrial Development Corporation and Raymond Corporation in Greene. They’ve also been involved in local town board meetings, supported local sports teams and donates fund toward the new Smyrna Public Address system. Norse, headquartered in Buffalo, has 70 employees in the United States. About 40 full time and part timers are currently based at the Eaton Center in Norwich. The company has eight geologists and/or geophysicists on staff. There are third party contractors involved in the various stages of the drilling process, from land surveyors, pipeline construction, to water hauling and drilling. The company also hired a new community relations specialist this year. S m a l l To w n . B i g N e w s . The Evening Sun Chenango County’s Hometown Daily news team – Brian Golden, Melissa deCordova, Jeff Genung, Melissa Stagnaro, Tyler Murphy and Pat Newell. M a k i n g P ro g re s s e v e r y d ay. 68 PROGRESS CHENANGO 2011 PUBLISHED BY THE EVENING SUN Success Stories Reese-Marshall Bill Marshall founded the company in 1947. For 16 years Bill Marshall operated the business as SD Marshall and became known as the place for offering superior service. In 1977 the company merged with Reese Baldwin, another local home heating specialist. From then we have operated as Reese-Marshall Co. Inc., big enough to offer 24/7 emergency service and repair, but small enough to still be responsive and personal. The current president of Reese-Marshall Co. Inc. is Doug Cottle. Doug became president in 1978, and has led the company ever since. He was instrumental in subsequent mergers, most recently the merger with Miller Fuel of Edmeston. Reese-Marshall is proud of its service to the area. Its many long term employees are a testament to its dedication to a high standard of integrity, principles, and values. A lot has changed since the early days of Marshall Fuels. We have grown from a few hundred customers to over 5,000. We now offer a burner service department available to our customers 24/7, 365 days a year. We have added other products like propane gas, high efficiency heating equipment, and air quality products. While we may grow and expand our business, we have never forgotten our roots of providing superior service to all our customers. Reese-Marshall makes its slogan come alive when it says “We make warm friends.” If you are not already one of our “warm friends,” we invite you to join our many satisfied customers. For over 60 years Reese-Marshall has been proudly serving our friends and neighbors in Norwich and surrounding communities. We are industry leaders in fuel delivery and heating and central air conditioning services. Our commitment is to deliver safe, dependable fuel oil and provide superior service. Our efforts are backed by our employees who live and raise their families in the communities they serve. In today’s energy markets you need an expert on your side. Fuel is our business, and helping people take control of their energy costs is our goal. Whether you are looking for a budget plan to help you spread your fuel bills into even monthly payments, interested in learning more about new home comfort technology, or just want peace of mind and reliable service, ReeseMarshall is the company for you. Our company’s goal is to serve all our customers with efficient, high quality energy products and related services. We pledge to safely provide fast, dependable, personal service in a clean and responsible manner. We will strive to be a good friend and neighbor to all our customers, and thus our service standard will exceed their expectations. As a neighbor, we further recognize the importance of supporting and protecting our local communities. To meet these challenges, we stand committed to continuously develop ourselves today, tomorrow and for the years to come. Check out our NEW website at www.reesemarshall.com. OPTIMAL DENTISTRY BEING PRACTICED BY A CARING TEAM OF PEOPLE WHO VALUE HEALTH GrandView Optical In 1997 the ophthalmologists at Chenango Eye Associates opened the doors of GrandView Optical, a full service optical boutique. Their vision was and still remains to provide an eye care center that has all services available for their patient’s convenience. One of the most important features was to provide these services with superior customer service. During the past 13 years they have successfully accomplished this goal. GrandView Optical’s goal is to enhance both your vision and your look with accurate prescriptions and appropriate eyewear choices suited to your visual and lifestyle needs. The large frame selection includes all of the latest trends; from budget to trendy designer to the tried and true traditional styles. GrandView Optical offers the most recent advancements in lens technology and their licensed opticians will discuss options that are appropriate for you, your frame choice, and your budget. Managing optician Darcie Terrell tells us that price is very important to patients in these economic times. “ We frequently shop the market to make sure our prices are competitive. Our service is top notch and our optical shop is glamorous. But don’t let that fool you. We only look more expensive.” In addition to eyeglasses GrandView Optical can fill your contact lens prescriptions and even fit you for contact lenses. Again from basic lenses, colored contacts or the more involved fitting of bifocal contacts, Chenango Eye associates physicians and GrandView Optical’s contact lens specialist are there to help you from start to finish. There is no appointment necessary to visit GrandView Optical and they gladly accept outside prescriptions. Glasses are now accessories to your wardrobe, so go ahead have a little fun with your vision correction. GrandView Optical will have you looking, seeing and feeling great! GrandView Optical is located at the offices of Dr. Paul Orioli, Dr. Cynthia Briglin-Mavady, and Dr. Jeffrey Kramer, Chenango Eye Associates, 194 Grandview Lane, North of Norwich, as well as 10 Eaton Street, Suite 300, Hamilton. Surround yourself with color... Come in and enjoy a relaxing shopping experience in our climate controlled store. Large Selection of Beautiful Fabrics Our customers refer to us as their “Quilting Playhouse.” A place where classes are offered and camaraderie abounds! Our NAME says it ALL... We have everything you need: •Accessories •Supplies •Instruction •Ideas and a pleasing comfortable place to be creative. 6142 State Hwy 12, North Plaza, Norwich NY 13815 ~ 607-334-2477 Store Hours: Monday - Saturday 10 AM - 6 PM; Thursdays 10 AM - 9 PM Seated from L to R: Jill Bennett and Stacy Scheer Standing from L to R: Kelly Kasmarcik, Deanna Parsons, Dr. Ramon Casipit, Shannon Robinson, Christine Bates, Phylis Cummings A tradition of compassion, excellence and hospitality... TEL: 607.336.2273 10 Henry Street (Behind Howard Johnson’s) Norwich, New York 13815 www.norwichdental.com PUBLISHED BY 69 PROGRESS CHENANGO 2011 THE EVENING SUN In Their Own Words It’s time to be optimistic again BY DICK SNYDER Snyder Communications ur family of companies are uniquely positioned to provide us with an insight into what’s going on, at least economically, both near and far. T h e Evening Sun, the weekly Gazette, and our seven free community papers (under the names of The Pennysaver and My Shopper) give us a good sense into what is going Dick Snyder on within our local communities and the six new housing starts all across the country, our lumber yard counties we serve. and large nursery customers Circulars Unlimited, on the are still lagging behind. A other hand, is country wide great deal of their business and produces advertising cir- has shifted from the large culars and other marketing commercial customer to the services for such national smaller homeowner who is companies as True Value getting more attention than Hardware, Case Cutlery, ever before and enjoying betHome & Garden Showplace ter pricing and service. For and Purina Mills. Under the our hardware, lawn & garden, stockholder owned co-op, and pet store customers, busiLMC, we produce advertising ness has been very good and circulars for some of the the customer trend towards biggest lumber yards and the purchase of higher quality home centers throughout the products and pet foods concountry and through such tinued in 2010. What happened to us as a regionally strong vendors like company in the year that just Agway and Bradley-Caldwell ended is a mirror image of Inc. we service hundreds of many of our customers. We dealers in the lawn & garden had an increase in sales in and pet care industry. 2010, but a decrease in profBased on what we are hearits. It is the increase in sales ing and what we are seeing in that makes us all optimistic. page counts and new orders, I would have to say that the When both sales and profits economy is definitely getting are down we all worry, but stronger with more optimism when sales start to climb back up we feel better and start to than a year ago. Even with this optimism, plan around a good year and primarily due to a lack of ahead. Like all businesses, we believe if sales keep going up, O profits will follow. Each year, all seven of our Free Community Papers take part in an Annual Publication Audit performed by the largest auditor of Free Community Papers in the country. This audit verifies the receivership and the readership of our Pennysaver and Shopper publications, and with over 100,000 readers combined, they continue to be blessed with readership numbers among the highest in the nation. As part of this audit several questions were asked of our readers including: “Which of the following products or services do you plan to purchase during the next 12 months?” Here is just a sample of a few of the 38 categories covered in this survey and what our readers said they planned to purchase over the next year. • 24% would purchase a New or Used Vehicle; up 2% from last year • 39% would purchase Furniture; down 2% from last year • 15% Major Appliances; down 4% from last year • 31% Home Improvements; down 1% from last year • 58% Auto Parts; up 3% from last year • 83% Woman’s Apparel; up 6% from last year • 4% Real Estate; up 1% from last year • 58% Tax Services; up 6% over last year • 77% Dining & Entertainment; the same as last year • 40% Electronics; up 6% Success Stories Central Diagnostic Imaging In a year of continuing economic uncertainty, 2010 found Central Diagnostic Imaging, an independent medical imaging center in Norwich New York, continuing to do what they have been best known for since 1997, providing quality medical imaging services. From the first open house held on January 8th, 1997, nothing has changed about the way CDI does business. Patients are treated with kindness and respect by courteous professional staff, just as they were on that long ago day. During tough times and good, CDI continues to expand services, seek new ways to improve quality of care, and to invest in education and technology. Like many long-term business success stories, CDI has been consistent in its philosophy and in the practice of that philosophy. From its inception, Central Diagnostic Imaging has held steadfast to the vision of providing compassionate medical care administered with expertise by doctors and technologists employing the latest sophisticated technology available in the field of medical imaging. At CDI patient need drives the operations from appointments, to hours, to physician supervised, individually tailored exams. The entire staff at Central Diagnostic Imaging takes pride in continuing to adhere to the original principles upon which the imaging center was founded. Stepping through the doors of Central Diagnostic Imaging, one is first struck by the noninstitutional, homelike environment. The warm walls and the Shaker style wooden pegs beams, adorned with artwork, are testament to an earlier era - a period when the business of medicine had yet to overshadow the grace and compassion inherent in the successful practice of the art of medicine. At CDI, this architectural nod to simpler times is balanced by state of the art imaging technology. At CDI patients are greeted with kindness. The staff understands and is sensitive to the needs and apprehensions of those who find themselves in an unfamiliar and often frightening situation. At CDI a technologist will greet you and accompany you through every step of the process. For many examinations a physician will discuss your tests with you before you leave. Most reports are completed within twenty-four hours. CDI has always envisioned success as consistently providing high quality advanced medical imaging in a comfortable, caring environment where, above all, patient needs come first. Clearly, despite the uncertainty of the times, 2010 was a year of success at CDI. over last year • 17% Jewelry; up 4% over last year Again these are just some of the 38 categories that were covered, but the overall numbers indicated that our readers would be spending more money in 2011 than in 2010. Of course, whether it’s Facebook, on-line editions of The Evening Sun & Pennysaver or new special sections, we are always striving to bring our readers and advertisers something new and exciting. And … the tradition continued this week with a new advertising enhancement introduced in the Norwich Pennysaver called “Tags.” Complete information is in The Pennysaver, but briefly a “Tag” is a symbol that when you see it appearing in an advertisement, you scan your smart phone over it and you will then be taken digitally to a site of the advertiser’s choosing. For example; if you saw a “Tag” in a real estate ad and scanned it, you might be taken right to a virtual tour of the house being advertised. If you saw a “Tag” in an entertainment ad and scanned it, you might be taken to a video of the band that is performing. Or … a “Tag” in an auto ad may take you to all of the interior and exterior photos of that car or truck. All it takes is for the owner of a smart phone to download the free Tag Reader application and begin to “play tag” with participating advertisers. Details are in The Pennysaver now and you can look for this technology to appear in all of our products during the year. Lastly, I would be remiss not to bring attention to the paper you are holding. An independently owned newspaper such as The Evening Sun is becoming more rare with each passing year. Fortunately for this area, we are still here and going strong. Not only in print, but our online subscriber list continues to grow each and every month. This five-day Progress Edition is unmatched by any other newspaper in the state, and the effort put in by Managing Editor Jeff Genung, an outstanding staff of reporters, an excellent advertising sales team and a production team to put it all together, should not only be appreciated by me but by the community as well. What’s more important than anything is that we need you to keep buying the “Sun” each day. Without you there is no “Sun.” So if you have any ideas or suggestions to make us better, please let us know. With more than 200 full and part time employees it is extremely difficult to name them all in this article but they are all equally important and are sincerely appreciated for the great job they do. And… what we all try to do is to deliver the very best products we can right to your door and computer. FINANCE TODAY! DRIVE TODAY! OUR DEALERSHIP OFFERS: • Same Low Price Cash or Credit • Affordable Down Payments • We Accept Trade-Ins • Reasonable Payment Terms • Low Interest Financing • We Accept All Credit Histories • Weekly Drawings • We Allow You to Check the Car Before You Buy Credit will be extended to you based upon the honesty and accuracy of the information you provide along with your ability to pay! Many other vehicles with affordable down payments. Tim Foote, General Sales Manager 5865 County Road 32, P.O. Box 350, Norwich, NY 13815 • NEW HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8 am-6:30 pm; Sat. 9 am-2 pm Phone 607-336-3113 • Fax 607-336-3118 Email: [email protected] Financing available to qualified applicants regardless of past credit” “Qualification has little to do with past credit. Call Tim for details.” We are not responsible for any printing errors with photos, prices and equipment. “Licensed, pursuant to Article 11-B of the Banking Law, only for the purpose of engaging in the business of acquiring agreements arising from retail installment sales.” Hayes Office Products The Hayes family purchased Sumner’s Business Supplies & Equipment in 1988 and has been doing their best to keep up with industry and economic changes ever since. What was a simple retail stationery store has become a multi department business made up of retail and commercial products and services and packaged under the name of Hayes Office Products Inc. Copies Plus is the Hayes Office Products retail store managed by long term employee Christine Walker. It provides local businesses, residents, and organizations a source for office supplies and services they need now. Copies Plus… shelves are filled with the most popular inks and toners from the likes of Hewlett Packard, Canon, Epson, Lexmark, and Brother along with all the paper, labels, and envelopes to print on. Requested items not readily available are easily sourced for next day pickup without any freight or special order charges. Regular customers count on Christine and her staff for express and ground shipping services from UPS and FedEx as well as a helping hand with printed business cards, copies, menu printing, laminating and more. New for 2011 Christine and Copies Plus will be offering large format printing options for banners, posters, and lawn signs for just about any occasion or event. Thuvia Stopford keeps the Hayes JcPenney Catalog Sales Outlet running smoothly and efficiently. Positioned as a rural market convenience for JcPenney shoppers the Catalog store is a shipping point for customers, a return center, a place to pick up the latest catalogs, and a payment processing center. Thuvia is quick to point out that shoppers that use the Hayes catalog store enjoy lower shipping charges, quicker delivery service than home shopping, and a more secure place to receive packages when not at home. Nettie Roberts, an 11 year veteran of Hayes, keeps the commercial supply division running like a clock. She provides area businesses and organizations next day access to over 25,000 office related supply and furniture items. Customers shop on line or through the gigantic Hayes catalog and Nettie makes sure they receive the best possible price with fast free delivery…in many cases next day. Nettie is happy to take your orders by phone, fax, or email and is open 24/7 for customers wishing to place orders online at www.hayesoffice.com. Mike Hayes and Reese Laundry head up the fast growing commercial furniture department of Hayes Office Products Inc. Armed with design software, a lot of experience, a full compliment of top quality manufacturers, and a large selection of used and closeout furniture Mike and Reese are able to outfit any size office at any budget. Add in the ability to help customers with NY State Contract purchases and you’ll find the Hayes furniture team a valuable resource for any local not for profit or publicly funded organization. Progress Pursuit - Anything but Trivial Read through todayʼs Progress Chenango sections to find the answers to these quiz questions: 17. According to Deputy Superintendent Robert Wightman, based on preliminary budget numbers, what size gap will the Norwich City School District face between revenues and expenses for the 2011-2012 academic year? 18. What agency awarded the New York State Veteranʼs Home in Oxford its 2010 NYS Host Agency Champion Award on November 11, 2010. 19. Construction of the new Byrne Dairy Convenience Store, laundromat and self-service gas station is slated for completion when? 20. In 2010, the Arts Council hosted its first-ever performance by an illusionist to a sold-out crowd. What was his name? Keep track of the answers to the quiz questions daily and fill in the entry form found in the Friday, January 28th issue of The Evening Sun. Get the form to us by Tuesday, February 1st and be entered to win... A one yearʼs supply of Chobani yogurt. Online Mail Bring to Office Mail or deliver your entry to 18-20 Mechanic Street, Norwich, NY 13815 Save time and money and enter online at www.evesun.com/contests No purchase necessary. Making a purchase will not improve your chances of winning. Must be 18 years of age or older. Winner picked by random drawing of all correct and fully completed entry forms, or the person with the most correct answers. Illegible entries are void. Entries must be postmarked no later than Tuesday, February 1st. Employees of Snyder Communications (including family members or those living in the same household) are not eligible to enter the contest. By including your e-mail, you agree to receive special offers and/or promotional messages from the Pennysaver and/or its affiliates. Your e-mail will not be sold or distributed to any third party. Many thanks to Agro Farma for their support of Progress Pursuit. 70 PROGRESS CHENANGO 2011 PUBLISHED BY THE EVENING SUN PROUD TO BE YOUR Bill Tyrrell Janice Tyrrell Owner Owner DEALERSHIP OF CHOICE IN CHENANGO COUNTY! A simple customer focused business model, innovative thinking, community engagement and hard work have helped Bill Tyrrell and his team make Smith Ford and The Giantʼs Warehouse two of the most successful businesses in Chenango County! Their proven business results have continued, even in the face of harsh economic conditions. The energy, willingness and foresight to understand their consumers exemplifies that entrepreneurial spirit. Often imitated... never duplicated. Oooh Those Prices! In the “Giant” character, they have created branding, which they continue to promote on a daily basis. With The Giantʼs Warehouse, they have created a unique persona from their primary Ford dealership, and continue to leverage this to appeal to a different audience in the marketplace. The “Customer For Life Program” is unique to this area. It continues to be a strong selling point which initiates relationships with the customer. From a business perspective, it allows Smith Ford and The Giantʼs Warehouse to see a customer routinely for service visits, and creates other opportunities to interact with their customers on a personal level. It also builds trust. Aside from their entrepreneurial achievements in business, Smith Ford and The Giantʼs Warehouse strive to play an integral part in the commerce and recreational landscape of Chenango County. From hosting Business After Hours, to the biggest annual Indoor Show & Sale, and the extremely popular Fatherʼs Day Mustang Rally in June, they continue to have events that bring scores of people from in and around Chenango County to this area. Over the years, they have been a huge part of making sure that various community events stay in Chenango County. The combination of all of this plays a big part in promoting tourism in the county. The “Customer For Life Program” lets customers know that this dealership will be there for them long after the sale. Many can claim they do some of the things that Smith Ford and The Giantʼs Warehouse do, but few can even come close to the contributions that they give to support this community! They continue to push the envelope and have developed the businesses to what they are today. Be watching see what Smith Ford and The Giant’s Warehouse have in store for 2011! Smith Ford LLC Will Tyrrell General Manager Marcy Hagenbuch Controller SMITH FORD, L.L.C. • 607-334-3273 The Tyrrell family would like to thank each one o f our 40 employees for the ir hard work and dedication to provide our thousands of cus tomers with the absolute BES T in customer service . “THE FUTURE” the WAREHOUSE O ECTI SP FE Program - WA SH FOR LIFE - LI NY S IN LLC. R THE GIANTS WAREHOUSE 607-336-3943 CUSTOMER FOR ON F TI RENT-A-CAR - LUBE FOR LIF ELIFE R RO FO TA N O THE GIANTS WAREHOUSE • 607-336-3943