SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR BANNER SPONSOR:
2022 34th Edition: July 18 - July 22
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR MEDIA SPONSOR:
Perfect Timing

Last month, the Orange County Partnership announced the launch of what I believe is a cutting edge and forward-thinking program called Site Inventory Program (SIP) that will produce thousands of new jobs in industries enjoying significant growth in spite of the current economic climate.
 
While it is still open to debate whether a recession is in our future, the Federal Reserve is attempting to slow down the economy as a means to lower inflation, which in June stood at 9.1%, the highest rate in more than four decades. I believe to enhance the mission of the Orange County Partnership we need to look to the future and put the pieces in place to take advantage of the economic trends of today and the growth industries that will be investing in new projects in the years to come.
 
I am excited about the launch of the Site Inventory Program for a number of reasons. One, it is already off to a fantastic start. Two, the program comes at a time when New York State and the federal government are poised to incentivize new development projects like never before (see “State Looking for Shovel-Ready Projects” story in this edition of Resources and Results newsletter).
 
SIP, which is headed by Conor Eckert, Senior Development Officer & Vice President of Business Attraction, and Kaitlynn Lancellotti, Director of Business Retention and Expansion for the Orange County Partnership, will seek to take advantage of some of Orange County’s key growth industries—food & beverage processing, advanced manufacturing, clean energy and life sciences—that the Partnership believes will be investing and creating jobs in the county over the next two decades. SIP is seeking municipal government input from across Orange County to determine all the available properties that could be developed in their respective jurisdictions, their infrastructure needs, regulatory approval requirements and what industries would be best suited for those parcels.
 
The SIP team held its first session with Wallkill Town Supervisor George Serrano and key department heads on June 28. The main takeaway from the meeting is that the Town of Wallkill is well-positioned to accommodate new development from these growth industries. The town’s key attributes include not only its location, but also its robust infrastructure (water, sewer, power and high fiber capabilities). The Town of Wallkill also features a strong retail climate, diverse housing stock and other amenities that are attractive to young workers.
 
Communities such as the Town of Wallkill can take advantage of a continuing trend brought on by the COVID pandemic. CEOs are looking to shorten supply lines by bringing production back home to the United States. In a recent Bloomberg article entitled “American Factories Are Making Stuff Again as CEOs Take Production Out of China,” it was reported that CEOs have been releasing plans to relocate production facilities in initiatives labeled “onshoring,” “reshoring,” or “nearshoring” back to the United States. The number of these projects has increased over the first six months of this year, according to Bloomberg and compared to pre-pandemic periods, have increased by more than 1,000%.
 
Another key data point in the article is that the construction of new manufacturing facilities in the U.S. has soared by 116% over the past year, easily dwarfing the 10% gain on all other building projects, according to the Dodge Construction Network.
 
OCP’s Eckert said the Town of Wallkill checks off all the boxes for manufacturing firms looking to build new production facilities.
 
“They not only have the sites to accommodate manufacturers, but they also have the community infrastructure that the talent wants to be near,” said Eckert. “The Town of Wallkill can be one of these key communities that we market to manufacturing site selectors for foreign-direct investment projects that are looking to the United States who want access to New York City, Boston and Philadelphia, but don’t want to pay those (NYC) metro prices.” He added, “So, Wallkill is positioned to be a leader in that field.”
 
SIP’s next session will be with the Town of Monroe, followed most likely with the Village of Blooming Grove. The SIP will be holding meetings with other municipalities throughout the summer.
 
I cannot adequately express how excited I am with the Site Inventory Program. It is hitting the market at the perfect time where demand is historically strong and funding levels have never been higher.
 
If you are still not convinced, please click on the link to the Bloomberg article, which clearly details the tremendous investment and job opportunities that lie before us.


My very best,

Maureen Halahan
President & CEO
Dan Depew is Business Development Manager of Holt Construction
How to Turn a ‘No Project’ Into a ‘Yes Project’
No.”
 
This one word is often the response to nearly every project proposal in the Hudson Valley.
 
Now let’s be clear; if you need a variance for a deck on your house or maybe a little-bit-bigger-than-it-should garage, you’re pretty good to proceed.
 
But, if you want to build a shopping mall, hotel, theme park, warehouse, a housing subdivision or, well, anything interesting, then get ready to hear a resounding "No" from the local community. And that “No” won’t simply mean you can't build. It will make you wish you never considered building.
 
I have more than 22 years of experience in government, and I’ve witnessed hundreds of what I’ve come to call “No Projects,” ones that died before they had a chance. I’ve also seen plenty of “Yes Projects,” and I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t, keeping mental notes on the topic of planning and development.
 
So, let’s talk about all the wrong things and the right things I’ve seen developers, property owners, builders and project owners do, some dooming their projects to No, and others attaining the coveted Yes.
Five Questions with Darlene Monzo, Chief Marketing Officer, Genting America’s East
More than a year ago, Genting Americas, the parent company of Resorts World Catskills casino in Monticello, presented plans to the Newburgh Town Board to locate a Video Gaming Machine facility at the Newburgh Mall in eastern Orange County.
 
The new plan was proposed after Genting scrapped an earlier proposal to build a VGM facility at the former Nepera Chemical plant property in Harriman.
 
After securing all approvals, construction began on the Resorts World Hudson Valley project in Newburgh. Earlier this month, Genting officials briefed Real Estate In-Depth on a tour of the project, which is now under construction. The $32-million project cost has now increased to approximately $50 million and involves the conversion of 90,000 square feet of space, including the now vacant Bon Ton Department store into the VGM facility that would feature approximately 1,300 VGMs and Resort World’s signature lounge—Bar 360.
Darlene Monzo, Chief Marketing Officer, Genting America’s East
Mike Turturro
Managing Partner – RBT CPAs
Proactively Manage Financial Reporting & Forecasting During Uncertain Times
No doubt, uncertainties stemming from the impact of inflation, supply chain issues, labor shortages, and more have you focusing on every aspect of your business, from overall strategy and pricing to contracts, inventory, purchasing, and more. The last thing you need are mistakes related to your financial reporting and forecasting. Making adjustments to reporting and forecasting to reflect how macroeconomic factors are affecting your business is important. Following are considerations to help you think through the factors that may impact reporting and forecasting compliance.
Streamlining the Process, Design-Build Construction is on the Rise; LeChase Aims to be East Coast Leader
Increasingly, developers are finding a more cost-effective and efficient way to build all kinds of projects, from major infrastructure and government-led projects to industrial, manufacturing, commercial construction and more. This solution, the design-build approach, is a project delivery method that entails hiring just one entity to oversee a project from start to finish. It results in a streamlined process that builds a stronger team from day one and avoids unanticipated delays and conflicts.

In design-build, the owner typically hires a construction manager or a design firm to carry out an entire project. Compare that with the traditional design-bid-build process: hiring an architect, waiting for the designs to be completed, then seeking the right contractor before construction can begin.
Jim McKenna, Vice President - LeChase Construction Services
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the two new downtown revitalization funding initiatives at a press conference on July 13 in Jamaica, Queens.
Rail Trail Commons - City of Middletown, NY
Gov. Hochul Announces $200 Million in Funding
To Revitalize Downtown Areas Across NY State
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced on July 13 a total of $200 million in funding for two major revitalization initiatives: NY Forward, a new program aimed at rejuvenating smaller and rural communities, and Round 6 of the state's successful Downtown Revitalization Initiative.
 
The funding announcement was made in Jamaica, Queens at the ribbon-cutting for Greater Nexus, a brand-new $11-million coworking space funded through Jamaica's previous DRI award.
State Looking for Shovel-Ready Projects
Gov. Kathy Hochul’s new “Focused Attraction of Shovel-Ready Tracts New York” grant program recently got the attention of Site Selection Magazine. Known as FAST NY, Empire State Development will provide up to $200 million in grants to prepare and develop sites statewide to enhance New York’s shovel-readiness.
 
In fiscal 2023, the state will provide up to $200 million to develop sites that will aim to attract high-tech manufacturing. In particular the focus is on semiconductor manufacturing, warehousing, distribution and logistics businesses with the goal to jumpstart New York's shovel ready capabilities and increase the state's attractiveness to large employers. 
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR BANNER SPONSOR:
Walden Savings Bank Donates to Four Community Organizations That Focus on Quality of Life

Employees’ Contributions to Causes Close to Their Hearts Will Benefit Community
Walden Savings Bank, in honor of its 150th anniversary, has donated $1,500 each to four community organizations that serve cancer patients, advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, and help young people in need of mentors and pets in need of homes. The grants came from a longstanding donation pool that Bank employees contribute to throughout the year – donations matched by Walden Savings Bank.

The organizations were:

“It’s wonderful to see the wide range of organizations our Walden Savings Bank employees choose to help with our donations,” said Walden Savings Bank President and Chief Executive Officer Derrik Wynkoop. “Our employees care deeply about the Hudson Valley communities we serve, and we are eager to help support many of the causes that are close to their hearts.”

The bank raises the funds through a company custom. Every Friday, Walden Savings Bank employees are allowed to “dress down,” with a small donation. Each staffer must contribute at least $3 each pay period for the privilege of dressing more casually on Fridays than the rest of the week.

The contributions go into the WSB Donation Pool; the bank matches them dollar for dollar.
Each month, the first $500 in the fund becomes one of 12 mini grants given year-round. Most years, the remaining funds are divided among Walden Savings Bank’s 22 departments. At the end of each year, each department is allowed to donate their share to whomever they choose – a local or national charity or service organization, a family in need, or other entity.

This year, to celebrate WSB’s 150th anniversary, the donation process was modified. Employees nominated organizations and then voted on four of the nominees to receive the gifts.

“We wish the recipients much success in their missions, and we look forward to continuing to partner with our dedicated workforce team to give back to our communities by helping more organizations,” Wynkoop said.


About Walden Savings Bank
Walden Savings Bank, established in 1872, is the 11th oldest federally chartered mutual savings bank headquartered in Montgomery, New York. With a total of 11 full-service branches serving Orange and Ulster Counties and a Loan Production office in Dutchess County, the Bank’s progressive style of community banking provides products that cater to both the individual and the growing mid-size business. Walden Savings Bank is rated 5 Stars by Bauer Financial, the nation’s leading and most respected financial institution analyst. In addition, Walden Investment Services*, located at Walden Savings Bank, offers personalized advice for financial planning. To learn more about the Bank and its products and services, visit their website at www.waldensavings.bank.
Hudson Valley Cancer Resource Center
Newburgh LGBTQ+ Center
Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Orange County
Take Me Home Pet Rescue
Community Leaders Preview Updated Guzman Hall on Mount Campus, Home of the Desmond Center
With more than a dozen community leaders participating, Mount Saint Mary College and Mid Hudson Construction Management (MHCM) hosted a hard hat tour highlighting the extensive renovations to the college’s Guzman Hall, the future home of the Desmond Center for Community Engagement and Wellness. 
 
Newburgh Mayor Torrance Harvey MSEd ’03, Newburgh Councilwoman Giselle Martinez ’20, Newburgh Councilman Anthony Grice MSEd ’07, Newburgh Ministry Executive Director Colin Jarvis, and others toured the building on Friday, July 8. On hand from the Mount were Jason N. Adsit, president of the college; George Abaunza, vice president for Academic Affairs; Nikki Khurana-Baugh, vice president for Advancement; as well as Scott and Ray Travis, owners of MHCM. The tour was led by Jim Tierney, project superintendent. 
  
Funded in part by grants from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation and New York State’s Higher Education Capital (HECap) program, the Desmond Center will provide accessible and equitable educational, health, and wellness services for community members and families in the local area, including the uninsured, while also creating learning opportunities for Mount students. Once completed, the college expects the center to serve more than 4,000 residents per year.  
 
MHCM is renovating the first two floors of Guzman Hall to help support the Desmond Center’s mission. The finished space will include a two-story glass atrium, exam rooms for patients, and offices for healthcare staff and students. The former Founders Chapel is being transformed into a multipurpose room with expansive windows, providing views of campus and the Hudson River. Stained glass from the chapel will be incorporated into the new design to preserve the character of the former structure. The top floors will house resident students. 
 
While standing in the new multipurpose room – with workers smoothing out concrete by the windows and tour participants snapping photos of the gorgeous views of the Hudson River – Harvey said that the Desmond Center “will be a home run” for the local community, “a home run out of the park.” 
 
Although construction is expected to continue through December 2022, Desmond Center programming is already underway, spearheaded by Genesis Ramos, executive director of the center. Recent events included a COVID-19 vaccine and booster clinic, online health equity talks discussing healthcare disparities faced by women of color, and more.  
  
“Our aim has been, and continues to be, to create wellness experiences not readily found in the community of Newburgh,” Ramos explained. “We want to identify and fill in the gaps and offer education and holistic wellness experiences that community members may not otherwise have access to.” 
 
Future Desmond Center offerings will include a smoking cessation program, a program designed for young women of color centered around self-esteem and empowerment, service provider training on mental health topics, and health education events. 
Pictured left to right is Scott Travis, vice president and COO of MHCM; Kyle Cuomo, project manager at MHCM; Jim Tierney, project manager with MHCM; Jason N. Adsit, president of MSMC; and Ray Travis, president and CEO of MHCM
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CORPORATE NEIGHBORS:
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Call the Partnership Team at (845) 294-2323 for more information!
Looking for a new career opportunity?
Takasago is a leading company in the flavor and fragrance industry. Takasago International Corporation was established in Japan in 1920. For 100 years, Takasago has developed flavors and fragrances for some of the world’s most successful manufacturers of foods, beverages, fine fragrances, home, and personal care products.
Can you imagine a more exciting place to work? Welcome to a world of opportunity! Across the Resort we have LEGO themed rides and attractions, retail stores, food and beverage outlets and a fantastic LEGO themed Hotel – all on 150 beautiful acres! All of these bricktastic elements offer numerous opportunities for you to find a fit and join our team. 

Whether you join us on a seasonal basis or for a long-term career we can guarantee you a unique working experience within a fantastic team environment. 

Watch our video to see what our team members have to say about working at LEGOLAND New York Resort! 
President Container, the manufacturing arm of PCG, is one of the largest manufacturers of corrugated boxes in North America. Our state-of-the-art facility produces in excess of 2.2 billion square feet of corrugated products each year. PCG operates a solar farm with 19,020 solar panels sitting on 11 acres of land adjacent to our 522,000-square-foot production facility in Middletown, New York. President Container is going “Green”.
This is your opportunity to start the next chapter of your career, and help create the first-rate customer experiences TradeTrans is known for worldwide.

At TradeTrans, we're solving the world's food and beverage supply chain problems. Our team includes talented individuals who share a passion for helping the global community. Our culture is caring, trusting and connected. Headquartered in New York’s mid-Hudson Valley region, we work to build an inclusive environment in which everyone can do their best work.
Resorts World Catskills is looking to hire an enthusiastic team of professionals to provide our guests with unparalleled experiences that keep them coming back for more. To achieve this goal, we will ensure that our teams are properly trained and remain dedicated to providing our guests with 5-star service at every touch point. Become part of the excitement and apply to join our team today!

Resorts World Catskills boasts a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance; free Life and AD&D insurance with the option to purchase higher coverage and an optional 401K or Roth Plan with match if eligible. Additionally, employees receive an attractive PTO plan, industry competitive wages, a free meal per working day, free parking and employee discounts.
Mid Hudson Construction Management (MHCM) is looking for team players who want to join us for the long haul. We are looking for project managers, field staff, craftspeople and administrative personnel. If you have relevant experience, are eager to join a fast-growing company and enjoy a friendly hard-working environment, we want to hear from you.
At Advance Testing, we’re invested in our employees, compelled by intellectual curiosity, and driven to work collectively to best serve our clients. We’re proud of our 35+ years in business and have had the opportunity to work with some talented individuals over the years. We are dedicated to making a positive impact and providing our employees with opportunities to grow personally and professionally.

As part of our advancement initiative, we train and certify employees through locally and nationally recognized programs. Our goal for our employees is for them to resonate confidence and pride in their skill.
At Garnet Health, you’ll discover healthcare career opportunities in New York’s beautiful Hudson Valley and Catskills region. We offer the ideal career path for compassionate professionals who want to support all aspects of patient health, including physical, mental, spiritual and social needs. Our innovative, rewarding workplaces embrace new technologies and advanced care that lead to innovative, effective healthcare solutions for our patients, doctors and employees. Together, all of us at Garnet Health nurture a patient-centric environment that’s focused on healing and exceptional patient experiences.
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