Staten Island Chamber of Commerce

American Cancer Society Honors Business Leaders at Celebration of Hope Event

Tue, 21 May 2013 15:29:53 GMT

STATEN ISLAND N.Y. - The American Cancer Society awarded four honorees for their contributions towards the fight of eliminating cancer at the annual Celebration of Hope towards the 100^th anniversary of the American Cancer Society on May 16 at The Vanderbilt.

Honored were: Joe Covello, Owner, United Hoisting & Scaffolding Corp, Sal Criscuolo, Manager, The Real Estate Mortgage Network, Joseph Ferrara, Principal, BFC Partners, and Jeffrey Kirsch, Owner, Specs For Less.

190 gathered to congratulate and support this year’s deserving honorees, and enjoyed presenters Linda Baran, President and CEO, Staten Island Chamber of Commerce, Nazareth Laursen, GM, Rab’s Country Lanes, Thomas J. Florenza, M.D. F.A.C.P, and Carolyn Raia, Chief of Breast Imaging and Medical Director of Breast Imaging Center at Staten Island University Hospital and Associate Chair of Radiology.

The Chamber of Commerce was proud to participate in this event which involved several Chamber members – American Cancer Society, The Vanderbilt, and business owners Joe Covello and Sal Criscuolo. “The American Cancer Society is very grateful to have community leaders in our Borough who believe in our mission, and support our goal to "finish the fight" against cancer” – Jeannine Marotta, RVP, American Cancer Society. Event chair was Nazareth Laursen of Rab’s Country Lanes.

Celebration of Hope was dedicated specifically in the business industry with the deserving honorees. A common theme was represented with all four of the honorees speeches. The goal of the American Cancer Society is to not get to the 200^th anniversary and the honorees considered this event to be bittersweet. Although many strides have been made towards finding a cure for cancer, it still hasn’t happened yet.

The National Anthem was beautifully sung by the talented Sami Jo Frank. Other entertainment was provided by Joan Caddel & the Midnight Choir and Amira Mor Performing Arts Center. There was also an “After Dark” party at Deck Blu that featured Chef Shehu Fitzgerald, of the Phunky Elephant and winner of 2010 “Chopped”. Music was provided by Tony Traxx Productions.

Chamber of Commerce to take annual trip to Washington D.C.

Tue, 21 May 2013 14:28:07 GMT

Staten Island, NY. May 21, 2013 – In the wake the devastating effects of Superstorm Sandy, members of the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce will travel to Washington this week to express their concerns to D.C. lawmakers.

On May 22^nd and 23^rd, Chairman of the Board Ralph Branca, President and CEO Linda Baran, the Chamber’s Vice Chairperson Annamarie Gulino Gentile, Esq., past Chairman (2002-2003) Henry Salmon, and Government Affairs Director Mary McLaughlin will visit with representatives from various elected officials and federal agencies responsible for setting public and business policy for Staten Island.

“Our main goal is to make sure that federal and state money coming down for Hurricane Sandy relief is spent wisely to help rebuild our economy and provide the most relief to the most people. We will also stress the vital need our Borough has for transportation options and investments. Staten Islanders have some of the longest commute times in the nation, and yet we continue to pay the highest tolls. We deserve a return on that investment.” stated Baran. “Our visit to Washington isn’t just a symbolic trip; our elected officials should know that we’d like to see results and commitments to help our economy in the wake of Sandy.”

Every year, the Chamber sends a delegation to Washington to advocate on behalf of Staten Island’s businesses regarding numerous important issues. This year, the focus of the trip will be to advocate for a comprehensive transportation system for the Island, which has been a sticking point for commuters for over a decade. This includes both North and West Shore transportation options. With this year’s announcement of large public and private investments on the North Shore and in the St. George area, the Chamber will continue to push for a North Shore right-of-way solution. The Chamber will also focus attention on Sandy aid and programs to help small businesses rebuild and recover.

Meetings have been secured with Senator Charles Schumer (D-NY), Congressman Michael Grimm (R, C-NY), Matt Erskine, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the EDA, James Rivera, Associate Administrator for Disaster Assistance of the SBA, and representatives of Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY).

For more information regarding the Chamber’s D.C. trip, please contact the Chamber at (718) 727-1900.

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NYC Council Approves Paid Sick Leave Plan - Chamber Still Opposed

Tue, 14 May 2013 14:30:15 GMT

Despite calls from the business community to soften the legislation, the NYC Council has approved a Paid Sick Leave bill that mandates business owners with 20+ employees to offer a minimum of 5 paid sick days off. The Staten Island Chamber will continue to push for common sense solutions to New York City's labor issues, but laments the Council's decision to move forward with this misguided legislation that will hurt our regional economy.

For more information, click here.

Meet the Council: Eric Campione from P.A.C. Plumbing, Heating, & A/C

Wed, 08 May 2013 18:28:21 GMT

Eric Campione is a project manager for P.A.C. Plumbing, Heating, and A/C, the current Co-Chair for the S.I. Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals Group, and an all around great guy. After graduating from Tottenville High School, Eric earned his Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh, NY.

Eric started working for his family’s business at an early age learning plumbing, heating, and air conditioning between school vacations throughout high school and college. At the age of 22, he began working as the Purchasing Manager in the back office focusing later in his career on various tasks ranging from operations to sales.

Currently, Eric serves on the Board of Directors for the Richmond County Young Republicans as Events Director and acts as a Member Ambassador for the S.I. Chamber of Commerce.

Business Spotlight: Inspire Investment Solutions, LLC

Wed, 08 May 2013 18:19:30 GMT

Mike Anicito CRPC, Inspire Investment Solutions, LLC

Years in Business: 2

¨ How did you start in this business? Why did you choose this field? Is this what you always wanted to be when you “grew up”?

I started working in the financial services business when I was 19 years old. I wanted to really get my feet wet and I went into one of the major firms on Staten Island and asked if I could intern. Within a year I was a registered representative and hired. I remember that I was exposed to capital markets in the seventh grade when my social studies teacher (Mr. Orange) let us play the stock market game. From then on in, I knew it was what I wanted to do when I “grew up”.

¨ What is the most important business lesson you’ve ever learned? Life lesson?

The greatest life lesson I’ve learned while working in my business is that trust is my biggest and most precious asset. Trust takes a very long time to build with a client and is so delicate that I make sure that the trust my clients put in me is sacred and maintained. That same principle holds true with your friend and family in day-to-day life.

¨ Who is a mentor or role model that you may attribute to your success? What lessons or qualities have you picked up from them?

I’ve had a few different mentors throughout my career. I’ve been involved in this business for 13 years now and have always worked closely with individuals who have taught me about how to interact with clients and who have taught me how to deal with adversity.

¨ What advice would you give another Young Professional looking to start their own business?

No business is going to be successful overnight. A young person starting in my business or in any business should understand that this journey they have decided to undergo takes a long time to build. It is never easy. There are times when you want to give up, when you want to quit, but those are the moments you will remember when you fight through and succeed. If you believe in what you do and if you have conviction in your product or service, you can be successful.

¨ When did you join the SICC? What benefits have you seen from your membership? What aspect of your membership do you find to be the most valuable/useful?

I joined the chamber in March 2012. The main reason I joined was to be a part of Business Guild 1 which meets every Tuesday morning. The relationships and friendships I’ve made there are the SICC for me. The Guilds are a great way to build your business.

Is Your Small Business Prepared for a Disaster

Wed, 01 May 2013 13:48:10 GMT

Most small businesses are ill prepared for a disaster, yet there are simple, inexpensive steps they can take to mitigate the damage, according to experts who spoke at America's Small Business in Washington, D.C., on April 29.

Seventy-one percent of 2,500 surveyed small businesses don't have a disaster preparedness plan, and 64% say they don't need one, according to Gerald McSwiggan, senior manager of Disaster Management at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Civic Leadership Center. That's troubling because 45% of small businesses that are hit by a disaster never reopen, and 25% of those that do fail after one year, McSwiggan says.

McSwiggan says most small businesses typically think about inventory first after a disaster but advises them to focus on employees. "For most businesses, people are their most important asset," he says. "It's important that employees are prepared, their kids are prepared, and schools are prepared."

Nan Malebranche, managing director of FedEx Express' Big Apple District, agrees. Ahead of Hurricane Sandy, FedEx gave its employees such things as bottled water, socks, extension cords, and granola bars, and following the storm, the company's first action was to make sure their employees were accounted for. FedEx Express even gave some employees a $25 American Express card to help them through the difficult time. "Keep you employees at the forefront," Malebranche recommends.

Here are some additional disaster preparedness tips for your small business:

Store critical paperwork in waterproof file cabinets.
Have a backup plan so that you can get up and running shortly after a disaster. Thomas Henneghan, a manager at American Red Cross, cites as an example a partnership between two bakeries across town from each other in which one bakery impacted by a disaster is able to use the other bakery's facilities during the night.
Start small and build. For example, if you can't afford to purchase a power generator this year, invest in the infrastructure in your building so that when you do buy a generator, it's ready to work immediately.
Purchase a sufficient level of insurance.
Back up your company data on a hard drive. You won't be able to access your data in the cloud if the Internet is down.

Marketing Research Students at CSI seeking business survey respondents

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 21:22:23 GMT

Marketing research students at the College of Staten Island would like your assistance in filling out the following brief survey. It is B2B survey on your attitudes toward telecommunications services, the survey should take only a few minutes and will help the students and me learn more about needs and attitudes toward telecom services. We have a very short time window to work with so please complete these surveys within the next 48 hours. Thanks in advance for your input! http://lnkd.in/ZXz8mB

Business Tip of the Week: How to Grow Your Business Through Social Media

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 15:23:55 GMT

Is your business active on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and the other numerous social media sites? If so, then you are on the right track. Learn how to effectively utilize these free and useful tools to expand the outreach of your business.

Product Ratings and Reviews: Receiving good ratings on review sites such as Yelp or Google maps can help you gain new customers and build brand loyalty. The Internet plays a large role in the purchasing process of consumers.

Customer Service: These days, customers grow impatient quickly. Set up notification alerts for high priority keywords on Facebook. Monitor your Twitter mentions so that you can respond with a personal message, which can leave customers feeling happy and satisfied.

Lead Generation: 33% of marketers have generated leads through Twitter, and you can do the same. On all social media sites, share interesting content that people will want to read about. Find out what topics are trending and start up a discussion about them.

Brand Awareness: People will come to know your brand through social media. Post content that is relevant to your industry and do so often.

Chamber Economic Outlook Breakfast Tuesday 4/16

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 20:35:35 GMT

New York FED President Bill Dudley to Speak at

Chamber of Commerce Economic Outlook Breakfast

STATEN ISLAND, NY – April 1, 2013 – The Staten Island Chamber of Commerce will host an Economic Outlook Breakfast on April 16th, 2013 at the Hilton Garden Inn (1100 South Avenue) from 7:45am to 10:00am. The event will feature New York Federal Reserve Bank President Bill Dudley as keynote speaker.

A panel of expert administration and agency officials will be on hand to give attendees insight and understanding into the state of the Staten Island economy and issues affecting small businesses, transportation, infrastructure, and economic development. Confirmed to participate are Commissioner Robert Walsh of the NYC Department of Small Business Services; Ken Adams, President of Empire State Development; Kevin Burke, President of Con Edison; and Jeff Zupan, Senior Fellow of Transportation at the Regional Plan Association.

Topics to be discussed are this year’s second round of funding for the 10 New York State Regional Councils, including $220 million to implement regional strategic plans and how it relates to economic development on Staten Island; New York City’s plan to roll out Community Development Block Grants and new programs to Sandy impacted businesses, as well as recent initiatives to help all businesses throughout the city. Challenges facing New York’s economy - utility infrastructure and resilience, power capacity; the state of transportation infrastructure, alternative options for transportation, commute times, and opportunities for Staten Island businesses will also be discussed.

The purpose of the Economic Outlook Breakfast is to provide Staten Island’s business community an opportunity to learn more about the condition of New York’s economy. By utilizing the information provided, business owners can adequately prepare for the future and make the necessary investments / adjustments needed to stay successful and growing.

The Outlook Breakfast will be $50 for Chamber members and $75 for non-members. To reserve tickets, please call (718) 727-1900, or visit www.sichamber.com/calendar.

Bill Dudley, President

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York

William C. Dudley became the 10th president and chief executive officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on January 27, 2009. In that capacity, he serves as the vice chairman and a permanent member of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), the group responsible for formulating the nation's monetary policy. Previously, Mr. Dudley served as executive vice president of the Markets Group at the New York Fed, where he also managed the System Open Market Account for the FOMC. The Markets Group oversees domestic open market and foreign exchange trading operations and the provisions of account services to foreign central banks.

Prior to joining the Bank in 2007, Mr. Dudley was a partner and managing director at Goldman, Sachs & Company and was the firm's chief U.S. economist for a decade. Prior to joining Goldman Sachs in 1986, he was a vice president at the former Morgan Guaranty Trust Company. Mr. Dudley was an economist at the Federal Reserve Board from 1981 to 1983. Mr. Dudley received his doctorate in economics from the University of California, Berkeley in 1982 and a bachelor's degree from New College of Florida in 1974. In 2012, Mr. Dudley was appointed chairman of the Committee on the Global Financial System of the Bank for International Settlements (BIS).

Previously, Mr. Dudley served as chairman of the Committee on Payment and Settlement Systems of the BIS from 2009 to 2012. He is a member of the board of directors of the BIS and a vice chairman of the Economic Club of New York.

Robert Walsh, Commissioner

The Department of Small Business Services

Robert W. Walsh was appointed Commissioner of the New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS) by Mayor Bloomberg in January 2002. During his tenure, he has reshaped the Agency to directly focus on and respond to the needs of the City’s 200,000 small businesses—the first time that a City agency has been completely dedicated to this goal. In doing so, SBS has invigorated the City's 66 Business Improvement Districts—the largest network of BIDs in the country—which deliver more than $100 million dollars in supplemental services for the direct benefit of more than 64,000 businesses. He has also enhanced the delivery of technical assistance and incentives to NYC's small businesses through NYC Business Solutions; energized the City’s promotion and support of minority- and women-owned businesses; and reconfigured the City’s workforce development initiatives, which the Mayor merged with SBS in July 2003.

Prior to his appointment, Walsh spent five years in North Carolina as President of Charlotte Center City Partners, an organization dedicated to improving and growing Charlotte’s central business district. From 1989 to April 1997, he led the Union Square Partnership, where he played a key role in the neighborhood's revitalization. During the 1980's, he worked in the administration of Mayor Edward I. Koch. He began his career in public service as a New York City Urban Fellow, a program he later directed. Commissioner Walsh holds a bachelor's degree and a master's degree from Fordham University.

Kenneth Adams, President & CEO

Empire State Development

Kenneth Adams was confirmed by the Legislature as Empire State Development (ESD) President & CEO and Commissioner of the New York State Department of Economic Development on April 5, 2011. In these positions, Mr. Adams works to promote economic practices that attract business and create jobs throughout New York State. He also works closely with Lieutenant Governor Robert J. Duffy to implement the Regional Economic Development Councils across the state.

Mr. Adams came to ESD from The Business Council of New York State, the state’s leading business association, where he served as President and CEO since 2006. He led the organization in its mission of creating “economic growth, good jobs and strong communities across New York State.” The Business Council represents nearly 2,500 member businesses, chambers of commerce and professional and trade associations, employing a total of more than one million New Yorkers.

Prior to leading the Business Council, Mr. Adams was President of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce and Director of the MetroTech Business Improvement District in Downtown Brooklyn. He was also the founding Executive Director of New York Cares, New York City’s leading volunteer organization, from 1988 to 1994.

Mr. Adams is a resident of Brooklyn, New York, where he lives with his wife and two children.

Kevin Burke, President Con Edison

Kevin Burke is chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Consolidated Edison, Inc., the holding company, and chairman and chief executive officer of its largest subsidiary, Consolidated Edison Company of New York, the regulated utility.

Mr. Burke joined Con Edison in 1973 and has held positions of increasing responsibility in system planning, engineering, law, nuclear power, construction, and corporate planning. Notably, he served as senior vice president, with responsibility for customer service and for Con Edison's electric transmission and distribution systems. In 1999, Mr. Burke was elected president of Orange and Rockland Utilities, Inc., also a subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc. He was elected president and chief operating officer of Consolidated Edison Company of New York in 2000, was appointed president and chief executive officer of Consolidated Edison, Inc., in 2005, and elected chairman in 2006.

Mr. Burke serves on the boards of directors of many industry and nonprofit organizations, including the American Gas Association, Edison Electric Institute, Honeywell International Inc., the New York Botanical Garden, the New York State Business Council, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, and the Partnership for New York City.

Mr. Burke holds a master's in business policy from Columbia University, a Juris Doctor from Fordham University, a master's in engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and a bachelor's in engineering from The Cooper Union. He completed the Advanced Management Program at Harvard University in 2005.

Jeff Zupan, Senior Fellow for Transportation Regional Plan Association

Mr. Zupan has wide range of experience in transportation planning gained in his almost 50 years in the field. He serves as the Senior Fellow for Transportation for Regional Plan Association. He prepared the mobility element of RPA’s Third Regional Plan, A Region at Risk, and has been responsible for much of RPA’s planning and advocacy of transportation projects and policies related to transit, ferries highways, airports, pedestrian circulation, and the variety of topics including transportation financing, pricing, transportation systems and demand management.

Mr. Zupan’s consulting practice has brought him a wide range of assignments involving transportation planning with a strong focus on transit, travel demand, urban design and policy formulation for approximately four dozen clients.

Prior to initiating his consulting practice in 1990, Mr. Zupan was Director of Planning for NJ TRANSIT (ten years), where he directed the formulation and evaluation of that agency's "new initiatives" program which directly led to over $2 billion of transit investments. He was Chief Planner for Regional Plan Association from 1969 to 1980, and prior to that he was a consultant.

Mr. Zupan is co-author of four major books, Urban Rail in America, Public Transportation and Land Use Policy, Urban Space for Pedestrians, and Upgrading to World Class: The Future of the New York Region’s Airports, and is the author of many reports and technical papers on a wide variety of transportation matters covering all modes of travel.

Mr. Zupan has taught graduate level transportation courses at five universities. He is a graduate of City College of New York (Civil Engineering) and Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn (Transportation Engineering). Mr. Zupan is a registered Professional Engineer in New York State.

Meet the Council: Regina Boukhvalova from Northfield Bank

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 13:31:57 GMT

Regina Boukhvalova joined Northfield Bank in 2011 as Vice President and a Business Development Officer. With over 12 years of financial experience, Ms. Boukhvalova is responsible for developing new commercial and consumer relationships in the Staten Island market.

Ms. Boukhvalova formally held various positions with Staten Island Bank and Trust and New York Community Bank. Most recently Regina was an Assistant Vice President and Senior Small Business Specialist for Staten Island Bank and Trust.

Regina is a licensed representative for Life and Health Insurance and is a New York State Notary Public.

Ms. Boukhvalova is in an active member of the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce’s Membership Committee and YPG Council, the SIEDC Leadership Institute and North Shore Rotary. Regina serves on the Board of Directors for the Greenbelt Conservancy and also volunteers her time with New York Cares and NYC Coalition Against Hunger.

Regina’s office is based out of Northfield’s Castleton Corners office at 1731 Victory Boulevard and resides in New Springville, Staten Island.

Business Spotlight: Maaco

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 13:21:44 GMT

Business Spotlight

John Schultz from Maaco

YPG Reps: Eric Campione

Business Visited: Maaco

Owner: John M. Shultz, Jr.

Years in Business: 11

¨ How did you start in this business? Why did you choose this field? Is this what you always wanted to be when you “grew up”?

After completing graduate school, I landed a job in “Corporate America.” I worked in the financial market for a few years only to realize it was not for me. I had a desire to be my own boss. My grand parents were small business owners, my uncles are small business owners and my parents were small business owners. I guess you could say that owning a business was in my blood. My parents established Maaco Collision Repair and Auto Painting in 1983. They have since retired and I now run the company. I chose this field because it has a great demand. Everyone drives an automobile and everyone will need a repair at some point. Owning a business is something that I have always wanted to do. It is a great feeling to know that everything you do will directly affect your future. You have the ability to take your company as far as you are willing to. The more work that you put into it, the greater the payoff.

¨ What is the most important business lesson you’ve ever learned? Life lesson?

The most important business lesson I have learned is to treat your customers like you would treat your family. Maaco Collision repair is an auto repair facility. To many people, auto repair facilities can be intimidating. Our office staff is always friendly and courteous to our customers. From answering the phone to greeting customers at the door, we are always courteous and respectful. If your customers can feel a sense of trust when they meet you or the people that work for you, they will become repeat customers. Our slogan is “Paint a car, make a friend.” If we make our customers feel comfortable, we will have them come back and most likely will gain some referrals. Build your customer base first. If you do that, you will have a successful business. This is Maaco’s 30-year anniversary and I think it can be attributed to its extremely strong customer base.

¨ Who is a mentor or role model that you may attribute to your success? What lessons or qualities have you picked up from them?

I would have to say that my mentor is my father. In his first year of operation, the business endured a fire that destroyed 40% of the building and equipment. But it did not stop him from building a successful company. With a small loan from my grandfather, he rebuilt the company and continued on in true entrepreneurial fashion. He has always taught me to work hard and follow my dreams. I consider myself extremely lucky to have him. He knows all of the ins and outs of the business. If I have a problem, he usually has an answer. Hard work and dedication! If you have that, and a good business plan, you will definitely be successful.

¨ What advice would you give another Young Professional looking to start their own business?

My advice to another Young Professional would be to plan. Don’t open a business without a good business plan. Know your market, your competition, your location and especially your product. If there is not a strong need for your product or service, it is going to be that much harder to get off the ground. I am in the auto repair business. The average household has 2.5 cars on Staten Island. That is a lot of cars. I also have a lot of competition in repairing. But Maaco has a niche! We also paint cars at an economical price. We will paint your car for less than $1000, where most shops won’t paint a car for less than $2500. People come to our facility for insurance work, rust work, restoration, minor dings and scratches, lease returns, auto glass and much more. We are a diversified business as well as a business with a niche. Don’t let your business stay stagnant. Keep it growing and keep diversifying. The more you offer to your customer base, the more business you can drive to your company.

¨ When did you join the SICC? What benefits have you seen from your membership? What aspect of your membership do you find to be the most valuable/useful?

We have been a member of the Chamber for as long as I can remember. Because of the Chamber, we have developed some great business relationships in the community. It is especially helpful with business issues that arise in our day to day operations. I also think it is great to have a voice in the community. The Chamber provides that voice for small business owners all over the island. When I see Linda Baran and fellow Chamber members traveling to Washington D.C. to lobby on certain issues, it makes me feel that someone is watching my back. For that I have to thank the Chamber.

Business Tip of the Week: Crisis Communication

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 15:44:47 GMT

Every business – large or small – should have a crisis communications plan

Once upon a time when we started in the field of public relations, things were simpler. It would have
been enough to write a press release, massage the story idea, and even embargo a story idea and
wait for it to hit the media outlets. You had print media and broadcast news…simple enough.

Now news is literally reported as it happens and many times not by a reporter or media outlet.
Smartphones and social media have made it possible for everyone to create a story and a buzz
without an editor. Often we are responding to the “news”. Even real reporters tweet and post.

Realizing that, it’s important for any business or organization to be prepared. Most businesses
think crisis management is only for big companies. Remember small businesses have a greater
reliance on a smaller number of customer or clients, so a loss of one or two principal clients can be
extremely painful. A damaging post can mean traffic moved away from your business. A publicized
arrest of an employee or a disgruntled customer becomes news and potentially damaging. You can’t
hide.

A crisis plan is important for any organization.

Here are some steps for your business to take so you are prepared – just in case.

* Appoint a crisis team, individuals responsible for working on a plan.
* Appoint a spokesperson to handle calls and inquiries.
* Identify who your audiences are - customers, employees, vendors, and media.
* If the day comes:

Act quickly
Tell the TRUTH
Be accessible to press
Show confidence
Communicate changes in the situation as quickly as you can.

You may never have a crisis, but if you do, preparation is the key. There is comfort in that.

City Releases Disaster Recovery Plan

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 12:54:18 GMT

NYC has released the Community Development Block Grant- Disaster Recovery Action Plan A. This plan will address housing, business, and infrastructure.

The plan can be reviewed in full here.

The public can comment on the plan until April 4, 2013. Comments can be submitted through the NYC Recovery website.

Business Tip of the Week: How to Survive the Work Week

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 16:24:59 GMT

Do you dread Monday mornings? Are you constantly counting the minutes until the start of the weekend? Is your morning coffee not enough to keep you alert and focused? Before you succumb to the work-week blues, find out how to make those five days before Saturday and Sunday more meaningful.

1. Morning Exercise: Acitvity such as an early morning run will not only leave you feeling energized for the rest of the day, but it will release endorphins that boost your mood!

2. Give Yourself Time: Wake up 15 minutes earlier than usual and create a morning routine. Enjoy coffee and breakfast, read the newspaper, or watch TV in order to relax before a 9-5 workday.

3. Make Plans: Arrange weekend plans with family and friends on Monday. This will make the rest of the week go by quickly.

4. Comedic Relief: On occassion, email your friends and co-workers a work-appropriate joke or YouTube video. This will brighten everyone's day!

5. Let's Do Lunch: Take a break and eat lunch with co-workers rather than shoving down a bag of chips alone at your desk. Bond with fellow employees and vent about the happenings of the day.

6. Wild Wednesdays: Hump Day isn't so bad after all. Go out with friends on Wednesdays and give yourself a mid-week treat instead of waiting for the weekend.

7. Be Social and Network: If allowed, give yourself 15 minutes per day to check Facebook and Twitter. Check up on the world of social media to break up a long afternoon, but be sure to get your work done!

8. Create a Tradition: Set aside one day a week for an activity such as watching your favorite show or going out to dinner. No matter what day of the week it is, you will always have someting to look forward to.

Chamber Goes to Albany!

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 15:56:34 GMT

Chamber of Commerce to take toll fight to Albany

In the wake of toll hikes recently implemented by the MTA, members of the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce will travel to Albany to take the issue to N.Y. lawmakers.

On Tuesday, March 5, 2013, President and CEO Linda M. Baran, Director of Government Affairs Mary McLaughlin, and a contingent of Chamber Board and committee members and business owners will push for relief from Sunday’s hike.

“The Chamber has been very clear in its position on tolls – that regional equity is essential for competition and economic growth. Until Staten Island’s unique position is taken into account and viable transportation alternatives are offered, our local economy will continue to suffer,” Ms. Baran stated in preparation for the trip.

Chamber representatives will meet with high ranking economic development and transportation representatives from Governor Cuomo’s office. They will also meet with Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, Assembly Transportation Chairman David Gantt, representatives of Senator Fuschillo, who is the Chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee, and Assemblyman Brennan, Chairman of the Corporations, Authorities, and Commissions Committee.

The contingent is also meeting with locally elected officials Assemblyman Michael Cusick, Assemblyman Matthew Titone, Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis, Assemblyman Joseph Borelli, Senator Diane Savino and Senator Andrew Lanza regarding transportation and tolls.

This upcoming trip to Albany marks yet another step in the Chamber’s advocacy efforts against tolls in the 17 months since the Port Authority of NY and NJ implemented a series of hikes on its Hudson River crossings. Since that time, the Chamber has organized a toll rally in the shadow of the Bayonne Bridge, met with Port Authority director Patrick Foye, testified at multiple public hearings, traveled to Washington D.C. to meet with Federal transportation officials, helped advocate in support of a residential toll discount for commuters, and initiated dialogues with locally elected officials and MTA representatives. These efforts, while informative and essential for keeping the lines of communication open for Staten Island’s small businesses, has not resulted in relief. The Chamber maintains that ever-increasing tolls affect Staten Island’s community disproportionally, and relief and equity are needed in order to keep Staten Island open for business.

For more information regarding the Chamber’s Albany trip, please contact the Chamber at (718) 727-1900.

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FEMA & SBA Deadline Extended!

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 15:48:35 GMT

It's not too late to register for FEMA or SBA assistance. The deadline has been extended to March 29, 2013.

For FEMA:

Visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

For the SBA disaster loans:

Visit DisasterLoan.SBA.gov/ELA.

For more information on any of the storm-related loan and grant programs, Call the Chamber at 718-727-1900.

Read the article from the Staten Island Advance here.

Meet the YPG Council: Amy Lavelle from New York Center for Interpersonal Development

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 16:45:36 GMT

Amy Lavelle, a third-generation native Staten Islander, attended Curtis High School and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication from Seton Hall University.

Amy is currently the Business Liaison for New York Center for Interpersonal Development (NYCID)’s Achievement in Career & Education (ACE) Program. In this role, she works collaboratively with local businesses, organizations and government offices to secure internships and job placement referrals for young adults enrolled in the program. She has worked at NYCID for the past three years, and previously served as their Development Associate, helping to coordinate all fundraising, communication and community outreach efforts for the organization.

Amy is a member of the Staten Island Leadership Institute’s Class of 2011 at the College of Staten Island, a member of the Leadership Council of the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce's Young Professionals Group, the SIEDC’s Executive Women’s Council and a member of the Greenbelt Conservancy Trailblazers. She was a recipient of the Greenbelt Conservancy’s 2012 Trailblazer of the Year award for her support of the organization, including co-chairing their first annual Blue Jean Ball in May 2012.

Prior to working for NYCID, she held positions with the New York City Council, 1199/SEIU and the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce.

Business Spotlight: Iacobellis & Joyce CPA’s

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 16:44:23 GMT

Business Visited: Iacobellis & Joyce, CPAs LLP

Owners: Lauren Joyce and Rebecca Iacobellis

Years in Business: 3 years at our own practice, over 10 years each in public accounting

¨ How did you start in this business? Why did you choose this field? Is this what you always wanted to be when you "grew up"?

Rebecca and I have talked about starting our own accounting firm since we were in college together. After 10 years of working at the large public accounting firms, we finally decided to take the leap and venture out on our own. I know it sounds crazy, not many people say I want to be a CPA when I grow up, but being a CPA and owning our own business is exactly what we have always wanted to do. We wanted to use our experience to help small businesses in our community.

¨ What is the most important business lesson you've ever learned? Life lesson?

The most important business and life lesson we have learned is to roll with the punches. Starting a business, like life, is not easy. There are ups and downs along the way and you just have to stay strong, be positive, always be prepared and never give up. We truly believe hard work and perseverance will pay off.

¨ Who is a mentor or role model that you may attribute to your success? What lessons or qualities have you picked up from them?

Our role models have always been our mothers. Rebecca and I may not have known each other growing up, but we both learned the same lessons. Being raised by such strong, incredible women showed us from an early age that we could do whatever we put our minds too. They taught us to believe in ourselves and triumph through adversity.

¨ What advice would you give another Young Professional looking to start their own business?

Research, preparation and a strong business plan - Do the leg work up front!

Do the research to make sure you are picking the best location and product for your target market. Having a strong business plan will provide the foundation for your business to grow and succeed. Lastly, find a networking group that is the best fit for you and your business

¨ When did you join the SICC? What benefits have you seen from your membership? What aspect of your membership do you find to be the most valuable/useful?

We joined about 2 years ago and have become more actively involved this year. Since becoming more involved, we have had the chance to meet and network with so many professionals throughout Staten Island. Thanks to the Chamber we feel more connected with our community, its businesses, its residents and the legislation that constantly impacts us. We are able to see first-hand how the Chamber acts as a voice for all of our businesses and we are grateful to be members of such a wonderful organization.

Business Tip of the Week - Look for Business Tax Breaks in the New Law

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 15:47:37 GMT

It seems that we all survived the "fiscal cliff" legislation that was finalized early in 2013. Small businesses survived especially well, with many of the "prior" beneficial tax provisions extended into 2013 and beyond. Here are a few of those business provisions that you should be aware of as a business owner.

Asset expensing. This provision allows businesses to fully expense the purchase of many assets (such as equipment, furnishing, technology, etc.) in just one year, rather than being required to depreciate (deduct) their cost over a number of years. Up to $500,000 of these purchases can be immediately expensed in the year of purchase.

Bonus depreciation. If you hit your expensing limit, you can always fall back on bonus depreciation, which allows you to deduct 50% (and sometimes more) of certain types of assets in the first year of purchase. This provision was set to expire at the end of 2012, but has now been extended through 2014.

Work opportunity tax credits. These are tax credits (which are much more valuable than tax deductions) available to employers who hire certain individuals. They include military veterans, people receiving government assistance, or those living in distressed areas. These credits were set to expire, but have now been extended through 2013.

Qualified improvement depreciation. Under these provisions, restaurant, retail, and other rental property improvements can qualify for 15-year depreciation, rather than the required 39-year depreciation rate. But note that these provisions are set to expire at the end of 2013.

Health care tax credit. If you pay medical insurance premiums for your employees, you could be allowed a tax credit for a portion of premiums paid.

Chamber Honors 2013 Lou Miller Recipients

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 15:11:51 GMT

Over 300 gathered at the Hilton Garden Inn on Frebruary 14th to honor 13 of Staten Island's top business leaders.

Dr. Peter Albert; Claire Bisignano Chesnoff; Melanie Franklin Cohn; Barton Horowitz; Michael Lanza; Vincent DeMonte, Maria Buonsante and Stefano Sena; Eve Taranto and Doug Johnstone, and Steve Villamarin, Linda Villamarin and Louis Villamarin were chosen to recieve the prestigeous Louis R. Miller Business Leadership Award.

The awards, held every year in honor of Louis R. Miller, a tireless community activist, business owner, and philanthropist who passed away in 1994, pays tribute to Staten Island business owners and not-for-profit executives who have helped to imrpove the quality of life and business for the community.

Sponsored by both the Staten Island Chamber and the Staten Island Advance, the awards breakfast featured light-hearted presentations by Dr. Larry Arann, Ted Maloy, Jon Salmon, and Tom Scarangello on all the honorees.

This year's event was co-chaired by Glen Cutrona, Glen V. Cutrona Associates, and Janet Langton-Magnuson, SCARAN/AAA Thrifty Exterminating.

Click here to see pictures from this exciting event.

Click here to read the article in the Staten Island Advance.

Property Value Assessment Deadline March 1!

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 17:52:36 GMT

Check Your Notice of Property Value

-It Determines Amount of your Real Estate Taxes-

DEADLINE: March 1

Every year the Chamber receives inquiries when and if a business' real estate taxes increase. Members who wish to dispute it often miss the deadline and therefore have to wait one year to challenge the issue.

Please read the following information so you do not miss the deadline!

Everyone who owns property in New York City should have received a Notice of Property Value. This notice determines the property taxes for this year. The deadline for challenging this assessment is March 1, so please carefully inspect the document and the attached explanation. If you believe that your Market Value is incorrect, you can fill out a Review of Property Value form available at http://nyc.gov/html/dof/html/property/property_val_appeals.shtml.

If you think that your Assessed Value or Exempt Value is wrong, you can find information on filing a protest with the NYC Tax Commission on their website at http://www.nyc.gov/html/taxcomm/html/forms/forms.shtml.

Have Questions? Attend this Seminar!

Assessors will conduct joint outreach sessions with the Tax Commission in each borough in the month of February to answer questions from the public about how Finance valued their properties. In an effort to reach more property owners, Finance and the Tax Commission are for the first time holding outreach events in the evening, as well as during the day. The outreach session schedule is:

Staten Island

Thursday, February 14, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

350 St. Marks Place, 4th Floor, Room 400

Wednesday, February 20 from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM

350 St. Marks Place, 4th Floor, Room 400

YPG February Business Spotlight

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 17:43:55 GMT

Business Spotlight

Cory Shifter from Casale Jewelers

Date: January 22, 2013_

YPG Reps: Regina Boukhvalova, Patrick McGrade & Danielle Reyes

Business Visited: Casale Jewelers

Owner: Cory Schifter

Years in Business: 27 years, Cory and his family took over Casale Jewelers in 2009

¨ How did you start in this business? Why did you choose this field? Is this what you always wanted to be when you “grew up”?

Cory's family has been in the jewelry business since 1986 when they leased booth space at Independent Jewelers in the Grasmere section of Staten Island. His father began to grow and develop the business and shortly after that came across an opportunity that he couldn’t pass up; the acquisition of Casale Jewelers.

In 2003, Cory's father was diagnosed with MS and soon after, lost mobility in his legs. "This is when I decided to walk away from my career in IT and focus on helping my father and our family business," says Cory. Now, years later, the retail business is striving and Cory's father and brother, Daniel Schifter, run a manufacturing facility in the back of the store. Their line of personalized jewelry is in over 3,000 stores worldwide and Casale can provide same day service.

¨ What is the most important business lesson you’ve ever learned? Life lesson?

The most important business lesson has to be that COMMUNITY is #1. Build your business knowing your surrounding. Get involved. “I am very blessed, so I remember to acknowledge where I came from and give back where I can.” The most important life lesson is to “Do Good by Others “. Cory believes that what you put out is what you receive. He has a true passion for helping others in any way he can. “The community can see where my heart is and what my true intensions are; that’s what makes me feel complete," says Cory.

¨ Who is a mentor or role model that you may attribute to your success? What lessons or qualities have you picked up from them?

“My father is my mentor. He has taken this business from nothing to what it is today. As a taxi driver, who dreamed of having a business of his own one day and he has managed to develop that dream into a reality. Not just for himself, but for us and our children.”

¨ What advice would you give another Young Professional looking to start their own business?

“Owning your own business is not just 9am to 5pm; it’s a life style. Build strong relationships with other like minded people and learn from them. Know your industry and your target market. Study your competition, but be kind.”

¨ When did you join the SICC? What benefits have you seen from your membership? What aspect of your membership do you find to be the most valuable/useful?

Cory’s father has always believed in Staten Island Chamber of Commerce, so naturally, when Cory stepped up to the plate, the Chamber was the first organization he joined. “One of the most valuable parts of the Chamber for me has to be meeting and interacting with other Staten Island business owners.” says Cory. Unfortunately, that didn’t come so easy at first. His first experience at the Business After Hours was somewhat of a bust. “I’ve never attended a networking event before, so I just pushed my business card onto every person I saw. At the end of the evening, I looked back and was very disappointed with the way I presented myself and my business” explains Cory. From that moment on, Cory knew he wanted to just build relationships. He continued to attend the SICC events so he can get to know everyone and learn more about the other members industries. He believed that this is what helped him grow as a professional. Cory genuinely enjoys putting smiles on people’s faces. After spending just a few minutes with Cory you can see how much he loves his family, his community and helping others.

¨ What is the Race for the Ring and how did it start?

The Race for the Ring started 2 years ago when Cory realized that the purchase of an engagement ring is the start of a long term relationship between the customer and even family members. Couples can join through Facebook and there are a series of tasks that need to be done including a video about why the couple should win. One great thing Cory has done is integrate charity. Each year, he has held a Comedy Night to announce next steps in the race and has donated all of the money to local charities on Staten Island such as the American Cancer Society. “I want to integrate a charity event with the contest as it is a positive thing for our community. The past 2 comedy nights, we were able to donate close to $20,000 for American Cancer Society and had a nice night out with the couples and their families.” This year’s race starts on February 1, 2012. Couples can enter through Facebook and need to get 500 votes through a photo contest. The tentative race date is March 22, 2013.

Like Casale Jewelers on Facebook for full details. www.facebook.com/casalejewelers

Casale carries all the top brands, including Verragio Bridal, Forevermark Diamonds, Swarovski and Movado to name a few. Judith Ripka has partnered with Casale and plan to have their line just in time for Mother’s Day. There personalized line of jewelry can be found on www.picturesongold.com. All can be designed and customized in store which really adds a personal touch when looking for the perfect gift!

MEMBER TO MEMBER DISCOUNT OFFERED. For the month of February; Cory is offering 20% off on any Diamond and/or Gold jewelry and watches in stock merchandise.

5 Chamber Alliance Accepts Grant From TD Bank

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 15:28:54 GMT

All 5 Borough Chambers met in Brooklyn on January 30th to accept a generous grant from TD Bank to aid in Hurricane Sandy relief efforts for businesses. Chamber President Linda Baran announced that the Midland and South Beach corridors have been chosen as the focus for Staten Island efforts.

See below for the Brooklyn Chamber's press release on the event.

New York City's five Chambers of Commerce and TD will announce the specific neighborhoods and commercial corridors across the city in most need of revitalization -- including areas affected by Hurricane Sandy -- and how TD's $200,000 grant to the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce will assist businesses with strategies to recover and rebuild.

TD Bank Group and the TD Charitable Foundation donated $200,000 to the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce in November 2012 to help start the Citywide Neighborhood Entrepreneurship Project (NEP), which is aimed at addressing the needs of businesses through a series of programs that includes providing direct commercial revitalization services to shopping districts throughout New York City.

The project will help with merchant organizing, commercial beautification, shop local initiatives, and attracting businesses to low income areas. Services also include programs aimed at direct referrals for small business services such as financing, accounting, hiring, and attaining permits.

WHO:

Carlo A. Scissura, President & CEO, Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce
Peter M. Meyer, President, NYC Market, TD Bank

Marty Markowitz, Brooklyn Borough President

Robert Walsh, Commissioner, NYC Small Business Solutions

Lenny Caro, President, Bronx Chamber of Commerce

Nancy Ploeger, President, Manhattan Chamber of Commerce

Jack Friedman, Executive Director, Queens Chamber of Commerce

U.S. Chamber Delegation Tours Sandy Damage

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 15:38:24 GMT

The Staten Island Chamber of Commerce hosted a delegation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation's Business Civic Leadership Center. Representatives from some of the nation's largest corporations viewed damage in some of Staten Island's worst hit neighborhoods to gauge pressing needs and assess possible action.

Gerald McSwiggan, Manager of the Center's Disaster Relief and Recovery division, organized the tour, which also saw damage in New Jersey, Brooklyn, Manhattan, the Bronx, and Queens.

As part of the excursion, delegates met at the Hilton Garden Inn to hear presentations from the Siller Foundation, Project Hospitality, the Staten Island Foundation, The American Red Cross, and the Salvation Army, on their response and plan for continued recovery and rebuilding. A discussion followed on ways to support Staten Island's overextended service providers.

The Staten Island Chamber hosted the event, which took place on January 24th. Led by Chamber President and CEO Linda Baran, Chairman of the Board Ralph Branca, Government Affairs Director Mary McLaughlin, and Communications Coordinator Ryan Gleason, the delegation traveled to Front Street, South Beach, Midland Beach, portions of the Hylan Boulevard Corridor, New Dorp Lane, Cedar Grove, Ebbitts Street, and Oakwood Beach.

Read the Staten Island Advance Article Here.

Annual Pay Notice Deadline February 1st

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 14:42:48 GMT

As we begin 2013, New York employers should be aware of their obligations to comply with the Annual Pay Notice Requirement of the Wage Theft Prevention Act. Employers must give written notice of wage rates to employees on or before February 1^st.

The notice must include:

The employee's classification status
The employee's rate of pay (including overtime)
How the employee is paid (hourly, by shift, day, salary, commission, etc.)
Allowances taken as part of minimum wage (meals, lodging, etc.);
The company's regular payday
Official name of the employer and any other names used for business (DBA)
Contact information of the employer's main office or principal location

The notice must be given in English and the employee's primary language (if the NYS Department of Labor offers a translation). The Department currently offers translation for: Spanish, Chinese, Haitian Creole, Korean, Polish and Russian. The NYS Department of Labor has sample forms for your use here.

The Annual Pay Notice Requirement is given to employees yearly between January 1^st and February 1^st. Notices must also be given at the time of hire and when an employee's rate of compensation changes. If notice is not given, employers may be subject to fines.

The employer must have the employee sign a statement acknowledging receipt of the written. The acknowledgment must be maintained in records by the employer for six years.

For more information, visit the NYS Department of Labor website.

Should you have any questions regarding compliance with the Annual Pay Notice Requirement, please

Call the Chamber at 718-727-1900