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Think Local. Buy Local. Buy Chamber.

The BOTTOMLINE

Volume 25 No. 1 January 2010

2010Be part of the Excitement and come Grow with us!

2010 promises to be a year of excitement and growth in Southern Saratoga County. The anticipation of having theworld’s most advanced computer chip fabrication manufacturing facility under construction in Malta will continue to drivenew business and industry to our region for year’s to come!

Your Chamber will be contacted by more visitors from around the country, and indeed from around the world, lookingfor information about all that our area offers; including insight on local businesses, housing, education, health care, recre-ation, culture and more.

To that end, The Chamber is now dedicated to the production of a quality of life “Video Magazine” that will be avail-able on www.southernsaratoga.org in the next couple of months. This video is a superb-quality effort that will highlight all of the above mentioned categories, which can be viewed either separately or in their entirety to create the 360* experienceof Southern Saratoga County that new-comers and visitors to our region will seek.

Member’s only now have a limited special opportunity to be part of this quality of life Video Magazine. You can high-light your business in particular categories of your choice on the video, for example health care or real estate, to reach yourtarget audience.

To find out more on how to be part of this exciting new opportunity to grow your business, please contact The Chamberat 371-7748.

THE BOTTOM LINE NEWSLETTER ARRIVING IN YOUR INBOX FOR 2010!

The Bottom Line, the monthly publication of The Chamber of Southern Saratoga County, is a valuable source for current Chamber happenings and pertinent business news each and every month!

Starting with this issue, The Bottom Line is being emailed to you in its entirety the beginning of every month, however, if you prefer to continue to receive a hard copy of the newsletter mailed to you ~ No Problem!

Simply go to the top of the homepage of The Chamber website at www.southernsaratoga.org and click on the “The Bottom Line By Mail” button. Fill out the form with the required information, ‘submit’ and you will continueto have The Bottom Line mailed to you each month! Or if easier, give us a call.

Also, we’ve made it even more valuable to advertise in The Bottom Line in 2010! This is a great year to do it because the newsletter will now reach more members than ever before! Just submit a PDF of your flyer prior to themonth you would like it be included along with 220* hard copies to the Chamber office. The really good thing —investment remains the same as last year — only $175 per insert.

Questions?

Please contact Liz at 371-7748 or liz@southernsaratoga.org

*subject to change

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2010

Mark your calendar nowfor these Upcoming networking events.

2 0 1 0

2nd ThursdayNetworking Mixers

Jan 14TreePAAD Fun Center

Malta

February 11Spare TimeClifton Park

March 11Curtis Lumber — Malta

April 8Location TBA

May 13Spring Business Showcase Southern Saratoga YMCA

June 10The Lodge -

at Saratoga Gaming & Raceway_______________

2010 Mixer Sponsor

If you are interested in hosting a 2010 mixer to highlight your

business, call Denise at The Chamber office at 371-7748.

Design & Layout byVelocity Print Solutions

370-1158

UpcomingEvents

2009 Graduates of Saratoga County Executive Institute

The Chamber salutes the “graduates” of the 2009 Saratoga County Executive Institute program, which ran for 9 sessions from September through December.The Chamber created this initiative in 2007 to bring business executives together to learn about the region’s leading companies and experience first-hand the exceptional service and leadership that make these companies great.

The 2009 Institute included visits, tours, ‘insider’ knowledge and wonderfulmeals that allowed for relationship building among participants. The Chamberwould like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the following leading companies for providing the venues that made this Executive Institute program a fantastic success!

• Saratoga National Golf Club• Times Union• Saratoga Gaming and Raceway• Momentive Performance Materials• Prestige Services• Saratoga Hospital• Palace Theatre• CDTA

Join us in congratulating these leaders: Justin Spraker, Ameriprise Financial,James Carpenter, Curtis Lumber, Inc., Bill Gomez, Hyatt Place Saratoga/Malta,Bonnie McGuire Jones, Jones Wilcenski & Pleat PLLC, Mike Durand, KeyBank,N.A., Brad Sexauer, Saratoga Hospital, Marcy Steiner, Seton Health Foundation,Sharon Villamil, Seton Health/St. Mary’s Hospital, Luke Michaels, The MichaelsGroup, L.L.C., Jim Mulligan, The United Way of The Greater Capital Region,Thomas Cook, Toshiba Business Solutions-NY, Kindra Beck, YMCA-SouthernSaratoga County.

ESARATOGA

COUNTYInstitutexecutive

University at Albany School of Businessto Host Information Session:

“Break for Business”The School of Business at the University at Albany will host an Information Sessionfor its full-time, evening and weekend MBA, MS Accounting, MS Taxation and MS Tax Practice on Thursday, January 7th 2010 at 12:00pm. This is a chance forundergraduate students who are on winter recess from their current University, andlive in the Capital District, to learn about the value of a UAlbany education. Theevent will be held in room 220 on the second floor of the Business Administrationbuilding on the “uptown” campus, 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany. Refresh-ments will be served. Not only is this event free, but it is a great opportunity tolearn firsthand how an MBA degree from UAlbany can enhance your future careerin business. Faculty and students will be on hand to answer any questions regard-ing our programs, following a brief presentation. For help with directions or anyother questions, please call (518) 442-4979.

The elevator speech used by Pauline Bartel of Bartel Com-munications, Inc., is quoted in the newly released book

Sixty Seconds to an Unforgettable Elevator Speech by Don Rosenberg. Bartel’s business introduction was also designated by Rosenberg as one of the top three most unforgettable elevator speeches cited as examples in thebook. Bartel Communications, Inc., is an award-winningcorporate communications firm that builds the images ofcompanies with words through writing, editing, marketing,public relations and business anniversary consulting. The firm’s Web site is located at www.paulinebartel.com.

Berkshire Hills Bancorp (BHLB) has appointed Robert M.Curley as a Director of the Company. Additionally, Mr.

Curley has joined the Company’s subsidiary bank, BerkshireBank - America’s Most Exciting BankSM, as Chairman of itsNew York region. In this role, Mr. Curley will work with theBank’s current leadership team to direct growth opportuni-ties in that market. Mr. Curley also has been appointed as aDirector of the Bank. Berkshire Hills Bancorp is headquar-tered in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. It has $2.7 billion in assetsand is the parent of Berkshire Bank — America’s Most Exciting BankSM.

Edward V. Wilcenski, Esq., of the Clifton Park law firm of Jones, Wilcenski & Pleat, PLLC, recently gave two

presentations to the New York State Academy of TrialLawyers on liens, trusts and government benefit issues arising in the settlement of lawsuits brought by permanentlydisabled children and adults. Jones, Wilcenski & Pleat,PLLC, is a boutique law firm which concentrates its practicein the areas of Special Needs Trusts, Elder Law and EstatePlanning and Administration.

Marcy A. Dreimiller, SPHR, MBA hasbeen hired as the new Director Human

Resources for Saratoga Hospital. Dreimillerhas over 21 years experience, including seventeen years as Vice President for HumanResources at Glens Falls Hospital, Glens Fallsand 4 years as Senior Consultant, Price Water-house Coopers, Albany.Saratoga Hospital andSaratoga Care Nursing Home, affiliates ofSaratoga Care, Inc., are a 243-bed community

hospital and nursing home designed to serve as SaratogaCounty’s community health resource. To obtain additionalinformation on all aspects of Saratoga Care, go towww.saratogacare.org on the worldwide web.

Hudson Valley Community College (HVCC) WorkforceDevelopment Institute’s Center for Energy Efficiency

and Building Science will offer Building Analyst and Envelope professional training at the College’s new state-of-the-art TEC SMART facility in the Saratoga Technology

and Energy Park beginning Feb. 2, 2010. Individuals interested in pursuing a career in the green collar workforcein Saratoga and Southern Adirondacks regions can receivetraining on how to diagnose and repair homes to make them more energy efficient. For more information, visitwww.hvcc.edu/ceebs or contact the Center for Energy Efficiency and Building Science directly by calling (518) 629-4111 or emailing ceebs@hvcc.edu

Steven M. Egna, Director of Business Advisory Services with Teal, Becker &

Chiaramonte CPAs, P.C. a regional account-ing and business services firm located in Albany, is scheduled to be a course instructorfor the Institute of Business Appraisers. Egnais a Certified Business Appraiser accreditedby the Institute of Business Appraisers and aCertified Merger & Acquisition Advisor by

the Alliance of Mergers & Acquisitions; his focus is on business valuations and CFO advisory work as well as mergers and acquisitions. For additional information pleasecall 518-456-6663 or visit their website at www.tbccpa.com.

Robert Doyle, vice president of warehousing for theGolub Corporation, parent company of Price Chopper,

was elected as chair of the Board of Directors for UnitedWay of the Greater Capital Region. The Niskayuna residentwas elected to serve a one-year term. United Way of theGreater Capital Region brings people and resources togetherto achieve measurable and sustainable improvements in thequality of life for communities across Albany, Rensselaer,Saratoga, Schenectady and Schoharie counties.

Mary E. Sullivan, CPA, recently joined Roback, Kumlander & Pehl, CPAs, as a senior Accountant

on the Accounting and Business Advisory Services team.Mary will be managing the auditing offerings for not-for-profit organizations. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and theNew York State Society of Certified Public Accountants.For further information, contact www.rkpcpa.com

Clifton Park Councilman SandyRoth retired at the end of the

2009. At his last town board meeting,Barrett presented Roth with the Keyto Clifton Park, the town’s highesthonor for service to the community.Both the Town Board and PlanningBoard passed resolutions this monthhonoring Roth for his service to thetown since 1992.

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Steven M. Egna

MMembers embers NNewsews

Marcy A.Dreimiller,

SPHR, MBA

Sandy Roth & Mr. Barrett

www.southernsaratoga.org — your home page

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Ribbon Cuttings

Ameriprise Financial Advisor, Justin J. Spraker, cuts the ribbon on his new offices located at 5 Southside Drive inClifton Park. Those present were Amy Domurad, ChamberAmbassador, Ken Herkert, Chamber Ambassador, SarahSpraker (holding Aiden Spraker), Justin, Jamie Rabuano, Beth Grzyboski, Chamber Ambassador, Denise Romeo, VPMembership Development and Sue Vallano, Chamber Ambas-sador. Justin’s move to Clifton Park was supported by Cham-ber members to include Windsor Development, Hopmeier,Evans and Gage, WB Mason, Usherwood Office Technology,Avtel, Prestige Services, Capital Bank, Frank Gallo, Canoe In-surance Agency, Capital Communications FCU, Time WarnerCable, NYSEG, Higgins, Roberts, Beyerl & Coan, PC, Carola,Bagnoli & Tollisen, The Third Zone, NYS Small Business Development, ta-da!, First Niagara, NBT Bank and BestCleaners. We congratulate Justin on his grand opening and to reach him, please call 518-280-4867.

Cutting the ribbon at the new Wheatfields Bistro & WineBar, located in The Crossings at 54 Crossing Blvd., inClifton Park are from left: Dee Pangburn,Chamber Ambas-sador, J. Eric King, Wheatfield’s partner, Jeff & Deane Pfeil,J.W. Pfeil & Company, Inc., Colleen O’Bryan Holmes, Timothy Holmes, Wheatfield’s Bistro & Wine Bar owners,Tony Shortway, Wheatfield’s Executive Chef, Beth Grzy-boski, Ken Herkert, Stacie Peugh, Chamber Ambassadors.Wheatfield’s is open daily for lunch and dinner. It’s the per-fect spot for your next party! Call them at 518-587-0534 orvisit online at www.wheatfields.com for more information.

2010CHAMBER OFFICERS

& NEW BOARD MEMBERSThe Chamber is pleased to announce the 2010 Officers:

Marcy Steiner-Seton Health................................ChairpersonEddie Hicks-Prestige Services, Inc........................Chair-ElectDoug Ford-Curtis Lumber. .................First Vice ChairpersonLaurie Ferlazzo-The Bonadio Group ......................TreasurerMarvin LeRoy, Jr.-

Hudson Valley Community College ...................SecretaryJames Hartle-KeyBank ............. Immediate Past Chairperson

New Appointments to the Board of Directors:

Above left to right:

WAYNE BEALE

The Rusty Nail

TRACEY COSTANZAFirst Niagara Bank

PAUL MILTON

Ellis Medicine

Special thanks to following members for their dedicated service on the Board of Directors

BOB WILSON—Assisted Fishing,comSUZANN SMART—Ellis Hospital

Their invaluable contributions over the past several yearshave helped make our Chamber what it is today!

Announcing

Leads Group Openings in 2010Openings Available in Chamber Leads Groups -

In 2010, the Chamber’s three leads groups are lookingfor a few members to add to their rosters. The leadsgroups in the Chamber provide an excellent, smaller,networking opportunity in which you can build yournetwork of potential clients.

To view the current leads groups please visitwww.southernsaratoga.org/leadsgroups. If your business category is not represented, and you are interested in joining a group, please fill out the leadsgroup application and submit to Denise Romeo eitherby email to denise@southernsaratoga.org or fax to 371-5025. For any questions, call Denise at 371-7748.

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Chamber Member of the Month

Focus on Health CareWednesday, 1/27

The Education and Business Partnership continues toprovide important programming to connect our area’sleading businesses and educators; join the partnership members at the their first event of 2010.

CLICK ON! 1/27 a “mini summit” with a focus on thehealth care industry is scheduled for Wednesday, January 27.Join other chamber business leaders and capital district educators for an informative event which addresses the current and future workforce needs of the health care industry, from the perspectives of both educators and employers.

Program panelists are Dr. Margaret Geehan, HudsonValley Community College, Doug Leavens, Washington-Saratoga-Warren-Hamilton-Essex BOCES, Joanne Miller,Saratoga Hospital, Kathy Ochiogrosso, Seton Health, Theprogram moderator is Greg Dewitt of Iroqouis Health.

Panelists will share their thoughts on the needed skillsfor their workforce, both now and in the future. Specific jobdescriptions, anticipated openings, compensation ranges andother topics related to the health care industry will also becovered. Q & A will end the event.

Don’t miss the opportunity to take learn more about theopportunities of the growing health care industry in TechValley! In addition, take advantage of great networking opportunities with other business leaders and Saratogacounty educators.

Attendance is limited to the first 200 registrants – there in no charge to attend!

Date: Wednesday, January 27, 2010Time: 3:15pm to 5:00pm

Location: Saratoga Springs High School AuditoriumRegister: Online at www.southernsaratoga.org

or by calling 371-7748

Event Sponsor

Supporter Sponsor

CREATIVE

L INKS

I NTEGRATING

CAREERS with

KNOWLEDGE

CLICKOn! 1/27The Chamber loves to highlight our members and put

them “front and center”. Take advantage of this new opportunity to market your products and services to fellow members and the Southern Saratoga County community.

Chamber Member of the Month Standard Package includes:

• Customized display in the Chamber lobby highlighting your company's products and services during the month of your choice (based on availability)

• PDF “insert” in the Bottom Line online newsletterand printed version during your month ($175 value-you provide PDF and insert)

• One ChamberTip email broadcast sponsorship during your month ($75 value)

• Recognition of your Member of the Month statuson the Chamber's homepage,

• Facebook Fan page, and Linkedin group includinga hyperlink to your site.

Investment: $500

Chamber Member of the Month Premier Package includes in addition to the standard package:

• Electronic Chamber membership mailing list ($250 value)

• Opportunity to visit the Chamber Offices duringthe month to network with and/or address selectedChamber committees or Board of Directors asarranged with the Chamber staff.

• Two complimentary tickets to the 2nd Thursdaynetworking mixer held during your month.

• Company logo on the Chamber's homepage with a hyperlink to your website.

Investment: $1000

For more details or to reserve a month, please contact Loretta @ 371-7748 or loretta@southernsaratoga.org

Go to www.southernsaratoga.org

to download a copy of this newsletter…

6

December 2009

Stand up and take a bow – the needs of 382 children have been met this holiday season with YOUR help!!

The Chamber of Southern Saratoga County’s Chamber Angels Committee would like to thank the following individuals for helping to fulfill the needs of 382 children during the 2009 holiday season. The success of the program would not have been possible without the help of many dedicated “angels”and we stand to applaud each and every one of you. We wish to extend a special thank you to the CliftonPark-Halfmoon Fire District #1 for donating the space for drop off and distribution of the gifts; to the staffand employees of Time Square in Clifton Park Center and the Mechanicville Community Center for theirassistance with the “giving” trees and to all the anonymous people who took ornaments off the trees andreturned beautiful gifts.

A special thank you goes out to Wayne Beale and his entire team at Bentleys, The Rusty Nail and The Millfor their support of the Chamber Angels Fundraising Event in November. This event raised the fundsneeded to shop for children without a direct sponsor. Halo sponsor for this event was Bentleys, The RustyNail and The Mill. Other corporate sponsors included Harris Beach PLLC, Wal Mart, John Carriero &Son, Saratoga Hospital, Seton Health, CDPHP, Curtis Lumber, Teal Becker & Chiaramonte, HannafordSupermarkets, Fidelis Care, Times Union, Prestige Services, Cioffi, Slezak & Wildgrube, Stewarts Corpo-ration and Seaglass Logowear. Thank you all so much for your support.

The following individuals/companies sponsored a child/children and purchased the items on their wishlists. Without them, this program would not have been a success. Please help us thank, employees of G.A. Bove & Sons, employees of Cengage Learning, Mary & Rich Anderson, St. Pioneer Savings Bank,Accounting for All, GTM Payroll, Coldwell Banker, Realty USA, Melissa Conger, Cindy Parker/TogalaxClub, The Bailey Family, Creatacor, Maria Romeo, Twin Bridges Rotary, A-Line Auto, Tracy Moore’s BoyScout Troop, Karen Lehan, Prestige Services, Seaglass Logowear, Clifton Park-Halfmoon Library, St. Georges Episcopal Church, Karen Andress, Jen Staines, Carlson Wagonlit Travel, Brent Trzaskos, Jessica Petraccione, Catricala Family, Alison Curtin, Herzog, Engstrom & Koplovitz, Manheim Auto Exchange, Scott Strock, Deb Jones Brownie Troop #1449, Saratoga Bridges, Residential One, Gary & Rita Stewart, Karalinas, Robin Davey, Jo Ann LaSage, Laurie Stange, Jim Slagen, Russell & ShelleyThomas, Malta Supply, Beacon Pointe, Robach, Kumlander & Pehl, William Crosby and Rand WindowFashions, Inc., Clifton Park United Methodist Women’s Group, Michele Seddon & HMS Agency, StacyLacombe, Suzanne Karbowski, Mara Sweeter, KinderCare Learning Center, Shelley Bullock & LibertyMutual Insurance, Salad Creations, Jonesville United Methodist Church Women’s Group, Pam Kelly GirlScout Troops #2578 & 2237, Abele Builders, Aileen Campbell, Frye Companies, Mary Sommers, Innovative Control Systems, Amanda Anderson, Central NY Electrical Contractors, Town of Halfmoon,

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The Mitola Family, Turbo Parts, LLC, Debbie Alexander & Family, Dr. Kirk Gleason’s office, Clifton ParkFD Ladies Auxiliary, Mary Pollay, The Roschinsky family, Joan Phillips, Diana & Scott with Lake RidgeRestaurant, Eileen Lasher, Kinney Management Services, The Winfield Group, Dr. James Galati, KathyO’Neil, Laura Stange, Mary Duclos, Sharon Hillenbeck, Leslie Miller & The Residence Inn-Saratoga, JeanMahserjian, Lynn Zeronda, The Maids, the LeRoy Family, TreePaad Fun Center, Alzheimers Associationof NENY, Mechanicville Community Center BOD, Kathy O’Neil, Amanda Sovern, Commercial Coverage,Inc., Annese & Associates, Brenda Tholin, Christine Donohue, Janice Hyde, Janelle Coffey, staff at TGIF(Clifton Park), staff at Panera Bread (Clifton Park) Maryanne Gordon, Frito Lay, Sangaline Family,McKenna family, Claudia Greco, Moore family, Amanda Lucus, Salmon family, Chuck & Diane Reine-mann, Gail Watson, Courtyard by Marriott, Artique, Sylvan Learning Center, Pat Sanderson, PriscillaCallahan, Schuyler Ridge, The Pike Company, Jerrie Matney, Jerre Crouch, Louise Flynn, Laurie Stillwell,The Palace Theatre, Pinnacle Realty, Jonesville UM Men’s Group, Carolyn DeSantis, Colleen Tyll & NorthAmerican Funding, Jonesville United Methodist Church, Town of Clifton Park, Elaine Neiss, Al & LauraWilliams, the Sieczkowski family, Amy & Neil Cherkosly, Doug & Lisa Ford, Emmanuel United Church,Janice & Harry Powers, Tim Clark, Dr. Chad Morrison, Arizona Pizza, Heidi Hatro, Jackie Capone,Caitlin Fraser, 1st National Bank of Scotia, Denise Hartwell, Site Solutions Worldwide, the Chamber’sLeads Group 2, Eve Kenyon with Acadia Singers, Capobianco Financial Advisors, Verro Family, The Salmon Family, Betty Zeronda, the Clifton Park Senior Center, Mechanicville Housing Authority,Eldon Smith, Bob Wilson, Wendy Berninger, Cartridge World, Strategic Management LLC, Young/Sommer LLC, Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Dragone, Michael Moore & Family, Brendese Funeral Home, Paula & Stephen Healy, and Hollandale Apartments.

Thank you to the most dedicated volunteers in the world…Janice Powers, Jennifer Jackson, Jennifer Anderson, Michael Moore, Jackie LaMountain, Lynn Zeronda, Betty Zeronda, Doris Newell, NicoleClouthier, Karen Hinkell, Joyce Maddalone, Sandy McAloine, and Norma Lineback.

The Chamber Angel’s Committee wishes to extend a special thank you to members who provided substantial sponsorships to this program. With their most generous support, along with the many othersponsors we had, 2009 was the most successful year to date and we thank each and every one of you.

Corporate Sponsors:

Wal Mart Harris Beach PLLCJohn Carriero & Son Saratoga Hospital

Seton Health CDPHPCurtis Lumber Teal, Becker & Chiaramonte

Hannaford Supermarkets Fidelis CareSeaglass Logowear Times UnionPrestige Services Cioffi, Slezak & Wildgrube

Thank You!!

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Planning for Marketing Success Seminar

Wednesday 1/20Many businesses approach marketing and advertising froman approach method and neglect the Marketing Planprocess. As a result, they often waste valuable time, effortand funds participating in marketing activities and advertis-ing promotions that do not provide a valuable return on in-vestment. Taking the time to produce an effective MarketingPlan can become the difference between success and failurefor many businesses.In this seminar you will learn how to:

• Articulate what your business does through the eyes ofyour customers

• Gain a clear understanding of how the location ofyour business relates to your customer base and overall operations and capacity

• Complete a competitive analysis for the direct and indirect competitors of your business

• Identify the key characteristics of your potential customers within the overall market

• Assemble the relevant data to determine the actualmarketing and advertising activities that your businesswill undertake as well as identifying those customerprofiles with the greatest potential

• Determine market share, potential, and trends• Determine your price-value-service matrix • Establish your marketing budget • Brainstorm possible marketing strategies • Develop an action plan

Presented by Kate Baker, Business Advisor Small Business Development Center

When: Wed., 1/20 7:30am – 9:30amWhere: Chamber Executive Education Center

Cost: $20 General Admission, $10 Chamber Members

Register: Online at www.southernsaratoga.org or call 371-7748

Breakfast Courtesy of Via Panera Catering

Seminar Sponsors:

Annual Marvin & Co. Business Climate Survey

Attention members who own or manage a business:The 25th annual Marvin and Company P.C. BusinessClimate Survey is included in this newsletter. In light of the country’s serious economic downturn,it is more important than ever to find out how CapitalRegion businesses are positioning themselves for theyear ahead.Please take a few minutes to complete the survey and return as instructed. The results of this Capital Regionbusiness climate survey will be compiled by Marvin andCompany, P.C., The University at Albany School ofBusiness and Your Chamber of Commerce. Informationon the results will be reported on our website and in anupcoming issue of The Bottom Line newsletter.

$10 in ‘10

Beginning at the January 14th mixer at Tree Paad FunCenter, the 2010 2nd Thursday Networking Mixer costwill be $10 for Chamber members. However, you canpurchase our brand new M & M Card (Mixers andMarketing) discount card and get a full year of mixerregistration for only $60! Don’t miss all the quality networking ahead! To purchase your card, call theChamber at 371-7748.

Chamber Holiday Celebration

Thank you!Members gathered at The Fairways of Halfmoon to

celebrate the season last month. Thanks to all the members who came out to the last mixer of 2009 and to Bruce Tanski, Wendy Heaton and all the staff at theFairways of Halfmoon for the great party they hostedfor us. The Chamber also extends special thanks toSanta (aka Justin Spraker) for dropping in!

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Chamber 101January 11th

Make a resolution to learn about all the benefitsof your Chamber Membership!

Chamber 101 of is scheduled for Monday, January 11th@ 4:00pm at The Chamber office. This informative review of all the benefits and opportunities offered by the Chamberincludes all insurance information, committee involvement,sponsorship opportunities and much more.

The orientation is open to all members and is free ofcharge. Please call the Chamber to register at 371-7748.

Brown BagSeminar

Social Networkingin 2010

Bring your laptop to this hands-on workshop! Join Social Networking expert, Melissa Ward, Managing

Partner of NewWard Development, LLC™ as she kicks offWIB programming for New Year! Melissa will provide valuable insight on how social networking has evolved andupdate you on the emerging trends of social networking in2010! Learn the ‘in’s and out’s’ of getting your face on Facebook and linking through LinkedIn.

This hands-on workshop will review how to set up aprofile most effectively for professional purposes, make con-nections and add useful networking applications to shine abright light on your business in a new and exciting way!

Register today to see what the buzz is all about andmake this the year you break out by using free Social Networking tools effectively!

When: Wednesday, 1/13 at 12 NoonWhere: Chamber Executive Education Center

Cost: General Admission: $15 Chamber members: No cost

Register: By 1/11 at www.southernsaratoga.org or call 371-7748- Seating is limited!

Refreshments will be served, bring your own lunch if desired.

When it comes to special events,there’s nothing we can’t arrange.

871 Main Street, Clifton Park, NY ~ 518.877.7449 ~ cliftonparkrental.com

Visit our showroom and let us help youplan your next event – party or trade show!

c l i f t o n p a r kRentalA S P E C I A L E V E N T S C O M P A N Y

Think Local. Buy Local!

The Chamber of Southern Saratoga County in partner-ship with the towns and municipalities in southern SaratogaCounty launched a new campaign initiative in December –Think Local. Buy Local! This campaign will developthroughout the year to bring awareness of the importancefor consumers to purchase goods and services in their localcommunities thereby sustaining the local economy.

Do you know the economic impacts on the communitiesin which you live when you decide to purchase goods andservices ‘outside’ your community?” asks Peter Aust, Presi-dent and CEO of the Chamber. “Now more than ever, thespending decisions we make as consumers has a significantimpact on the health and quality of our local communities”.

When purchasing from local businesses, a significant percentage of the total sales tax remains allocated to localfunding. This money is vital to a community’s economic sustainability – keeping property taxes manageable, fundingemergency services, neighborhood parks, health programs,children’s educational programs and much more that enhances the region’s quality of life. As those sales taxes decrease when people decide to purchase from outside their community, the things that make a community greatwill no longer be viable.

The Think Local. Buy Local! campaign encompasses a comprehensive awareness program to include media advertising, point-of-purchase signage, discount programsand access to local companies offering through the Chamber’s website – www.southernsaratoga.org.

The Chamber’s Retail and Hospitality Council will beleading the efforts to continually promote the Think Local.Buy Local! campaign throughout the year. Working with theleadership in each town respectively, the Chamber anticipatesthat all residents of southern Saratoga County will begin tomore fully understand the importance of purchasing fromlocal businesses in contrast to online or catalogue retailers.

“We’re encouraging the Clifton Park community to rally around local business owners and lend them a helpinghand in these challenging economic times,” Clifton ParkCouncilman Scott Hughes said.

Press conference participants for the Think Local. Buy Local!campaign from left: Ted Potrikus, Retail Council of NYS, Paul Sausville, Malta Town Supervisor, Peter Aust, ChamberPresident, Phil Barrett, Clifton Park Town Supervisor, Scott Hughes, Clifton Park Town Councilman.

10

As Congress has distracted itself with appropriations, healthcare reform and climate change, some issues have faded fromtheir radar screen. That doesn’t mean, of course, they’re off theradar screen. It's clear action on Card Check didn’t come topass in 2009, but lest you think it’s off the minds of the Ad-ministration or Congress, think again. The article below showsthe many different ways “card check” can be accomplishedwithout a “signature bill”.

Thanks all for your continued energy on this issue ....and we’ll keep up the pressure in 2010.LABOR: Lawmakers Push Change in Rules for Rail, Airline WorkersBy Kasie Hunt

Several Democratic lawmakers are pushing the Obamaadministration to change organizing regulations to make iteasier for transportation workersto unionize.

Current rules make it difficult for aviation and railwayworkers to unionize by requiring a majority of the eligibleworkforce to vote in favor of a union. Anyone who does notvote in the election is counted as a “no” vote. In most otherindustries, a union only has to win a majority of thoseworkers who vote in the union election.

The National Mediation Board (NMB) met Monday toconsider a regulation to subject airline and railway workersto the same procedures used in other industries, and 39 Democratic senators signed a letter urging the NMB toadopt the change. Unions strongly back the change.

President Obama’s appointees to the board – Harry Hoglander and Linda Puchala, both former union heads –are pushing for the change over the objections of NMBChairwoman Elizabeth Dougherty, who was appointed byformer President George W. Bush. In November, Doughertywrote to congressional Republicans to complain that thepanel’s Democrats were rushing the change.

“In addition to my substantive concerns, I dissented be-cause I believe the process by which the rule was drafted andissued was flawed. The proposal was completed without myinput or participation, and I was excluded from any discus-sions regarding the timing of the proposed rule,” Doughertywrote to House Education and Labor ranking member JohnKline and Transportation and Infrastructure ranking memberJohn Mica.

The distinct rules for railway workers originated in theRailway Labor Act and were designed to reduce strikes thatdisrupted the coun’s transportation system. Republicansargue the rules are still necessary to protect travel and theeconomy. “This is clearly a drastic and fundamentalchange to long-standing rules under the Railway Labor Act,rules tied to important national policies recognizing the im-portance of air transportation to commerce and the need forunion representation that has majority support,” Kline andMica wrote in a letter to the NMB in October.NATIONAL HEALTH CARE REFORM:Now the work really begins

Work begins in earnest this week to resolve differencesin bills passed by the Senate and the House to remake the nation’s health care system. As that process begins we have

come across a number of stories that provide some insight onthe current bills and what provisions of the bills should belooked at more closely.In Health Bill for Everyone, Provisions for a Few

Robert Pear writes in the New York Times about lastminute additions to the Senate bill that could effect the con-struction industry. “Early versions of the Senate’s far-reach-ing health care bill said that small businesses with fewer than50 workers would not be penalized if they failed to provideinsurance. That was before labor unions in the constructionindustry went to work and persuaded Senate leaders to insertfive paragraphs.

Their provision, added to the 2,074-page bill at the lastminute, singles out the construction industry for specialtreatment, in a way that benefits union members and con-tractors who use union labor.

In this one industry, the exemption from the penaltywould be much more limited, available only to employerswith fewer than five employees. Construction companieswith five or more workers would generally have to providehealth insurance or pay a penalty — an excise tax of $750per employee.” To Read more click here.Senate Democrats’ reform measure is a ruse

Peter Morici, a professor at the Smith School of Business,University of Maryland, and former chief economist at the U. S. International Trade Commission writes in the BuffaloNews. - “Senate Democrats have managed a compromise ona health care bill that is a fraud on the American public.

Instead of a government health service to provide cover-age to individuals not covered by company plans, the Senatebill authorizes the federal Office of Personal Management tocontract with a nonprofit insurer to provide an alternative toprivate health care plans.

The post office is such a nonprofit — it walks, talks anddoles out mediocre service just like the motor vehicle andVeterans Administration.

This public-private plan would have a disproportionateshare of participants with expensive pre-existing conditionsand chronic problems.” To read more click here. HEALTH CARE OVERHAUL: Critics on left, rightunite against mandate

James Oliphant of the Chicago Tribune writes - “If thereis one thing in the proposed health care overhaul that setsMichael Cannon’s libertarian teeth on edge, it’s the require-ment that all Americans must get health insurance.

“The federal government does not have the power toforce you to purchase a private product,” said Cannon, ahealth policy analyst at the Cato Institute, a free-marketthink tank.

But with Congress poised to do just that, the mandatefor near-universal coverage is generating opposition not justfrom libertarians but from some liberals as well — and evenfrom some members of the insurance industry, which standsto gain millions of new customers.

Both the House and Senate versions of the health care revamp contain a mandate that everyone have insurance, be it through a job, the government or the private market.”To read more click here.

Written by Rob Lillipop - BCNYS

Legislative Issues Update Legislative Issues Update Legislative Issues UpdateLegislative Issues Update Legislative Issues Update Legislative Issues Update Legislative Issues Update

11

1 to 4 YearsA Peaceful Place Massage

& Wellness CenterAdirondack Community CollegeAdvanced Laser MedspaAlzheimer’s AssociationAnnese & Associates, Inc.Arts Center on the HudsonAssisted Fishing.ComAthletic Republic &

The Hockey HutBankers Conseco Life Insurance

CompanyBast Hatfield Inc.Burgess & Associates P.C.Richard R. Butler, ArchitectCanty Financial Management, Inc.Capital BankCapital Region Living MagazineCapital Region Retirement

Plannning Specialists—Christopher Frances

Charge Card Systems (CCS)Christian Brothers AcademyClifton Chiropractic Nutrition &

Wellness CenterClifton Park SpeakersCliftonPark.com/Mannix MarketingComDoc, Inc.Conley AssociatesCountrywide Home LoansCRWirelessDB Cohen Commercial Real EstateEcological Coatings, LLCFamily Medicine of MaltaFerretti’s Pizza and Family

RestaurantFinancial SenseFirst Chair Builders LLCGanje Law OfficeGot Property Realty Group, LLCGrace Fellowship NorthGreater Adirondack Home AidesHopmeier Evans Gage AgencyHudson Cook, LLPIKON Realty GroupimPress Printing & Graphics, Inc.JDF EnterprisesJnessM. Johnson ContractingLeChase Construction Services,

LLC

Mechanicville District Public LibraryMillview of Latham Assisted Living

ResidencesMLB Construction Services LLCMoe’s Southwest GrillMohawk River Country Club &

ChateauMohawk Towpath Scenic Byway

Coalition, Inc.Jason Morris JudoMothers and More of Southern

SaratogaThe Murray Law FirmMuttley Crew Pet-Sitting, LLCNail TrixNew York Radiotherapy Medical

Physics, PLLCNorth Country Janitorial, Inc.Northeast Parent & Child SocietyO’Connell and AronowitzOverton, Russell, Doerr and

Donovan LLPPadgett Business ServicesPanera BreadPet Lodge of Clifton ParkThe Photo StationPhysical Therapy Associates

of Schenectady, P.C.Pioneer BankPioneer BankPlank Construction ServicesPlatform Realty Group LLCWalter S. Pratt & Sons, Inc.Pro Cycles LLCPrudential Manor HomesR.J. Campion-General ContractingRand Window Fashions LLCLH Titterton Inc.TJ Rest AssociatesRobert Half InternationalSalty’s Pub & BistroSAM’S Club #6440Sandler TrainingSaratoga Academy of the Arts &

SciencesSchenectady County Community

CollegeSERVPRO of Southern Saratoga

CountySmith’s AutomotiveThe Solomon Organization

Sports Are For EveryoneSunmark Federal Credit UnionTech Valley Office InteriorsThe Business Development GroupUrgent Care of Southern SaratogaFrank S. ValvoVerizon WirelessWeb Sights & MoreWNYT, NewsChannel 13Woman’s Round Lake Improvement

Society (W.R.L.I.S.)WSG.NetYoung/Sommer LLCZone 5

5 to 9 YearsABSL Software & ConsultingAfter Hours FarmAlbany County Airport AuthorityAmerican Diabetes AssociationThe Building Connection Inc.Capital Communications Federal

Credit UnionJohn Carriero & Son Inc.Classic Interiors by C & MClean 2o Touchfree Car WashCoburg Village, Inc.Cool Insuring Agency, Inc.Cornerstone AdvisorsCourtyard by Marriott-Saratoga

SpringsDelain Law Office, PLLCDiNallo Financial ServicesFirst Columbia, LLCFour Winds - SaratogaFruitful Vine Christian ChurchThe Great Escape & Splashwater

KingdomHolcim TradingHoliday Inn ResortLane Press of AlbanyLowe’sThe MaidsMiranda Real Estate Group, Inc.One CommunicationsPfeiffer & Associates, LLC/Time-

Plus PayrollPinnacle Realty Saratoga, LLCPlanet BeachPredel’s Ranch Inc.The Rubin Dialysis Center

Shenendehowa Dollars for ScholarsSpecial Touch CleaningSunsations Tanning CenterVelocity Print SolutionsWhiteman Osterman & Hanna LLPWillard & Zeronda, CPA's, LLP

10 to 19 YearsAnimal Care HospitalAntiques for the Home & GardenAvTel Business Phone SystemsAXA Advisors LLCBank of AmericaEdward V. Bowen, Home

RemodelerJay Butler Golf SchoolColumbia Development CompaniesCompuTech InternationalDAM Liquor Inc.1st National Bank of ScotiaFusco Personnel, Inc.Ivins Computer ConsultingMarshall J. & A. Inc.Max Wholesale Distributors, Inc.Northway Plumbing & Heating Inc.RE/MAX Park PlaceThe Salon Centre - Joseph M.

KrupskySilhouettes Etc.Skyline Displays & GraphicsSmero Construction, Inc.TD BankVenezia Pizza & Pasta Inc.The Vital Bottomline-Marketing

Consulting

20+ YearsBlue Spruce Nursery, Inc.Clifton Park Rental CenterThe Community News and The

SaratogianGordon C. Emerick Funeral HomeArmand U. Garofalo Tax &

Business Services, Inc.John G. Gilooly CPAsMr. Subb, Inc.Prudential Manor HomesWilhelm Law Firm, PLLC

January Member AnniversariesJanuary Member Anniversaries

LOG ON TOwww.southernsaratoga.org

TO REGISTER ONLINE FOR ALL EVENTS or CALL THE CHAMBER OFFICE at 371-7748

15 Park Avenue, Suite 7P.O. Box 399Clifton Park, NY 12065(518) 371-7748

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CLIFTON PARK, NY

Local Knowledge. Global Reach. We are the right

business partner for all your real estate needs

518.452.2700

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Log on to www.southernsaratoga.org to register for all events

(800) 468-5500(518) 458-2195

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Upcoming Events Calendar

January1 Friday

Happy New Year! Chamber office closed.

11 Monday4:00pm Chamber 101 New Member Orientation—Chamber OfficeOpen to all Chamber members. No cost to attend.

13 WednesdayNoon-1:00pm Women in Business Brown Bag “Social Networking in 2010”—Chamber Executive Education Center.General Admission: $15, Chamber members: No cost to attend.

14 Thursday3:45 pm Board of Directors Meeting — Chamber office5:30 pm Second Thursday Networking Mixer — TreePaad Fun Center - Route 9 Malta. General Admission: $20, Chamber members: $10. Sponsored by: Capital Bank

18 MondayMartin Luther King Birthday - Chamber office closed

20 Wednesday7:30am-9:30am—Planning for Marketing Success — Chamber Executive Education Center. General Admission: $20.Chamber Members: $10 includes continental breakfast courtesy of Via Panera Catering. Sponsored by: Padgett Business Services

27 Wednesday3:15-5:00pm CLICK On! 1/27 — Saratoga Springs High SchoolNo cost to attend. Sponsored by: Saratoga Hospital

February11 Thursday

3:45 pm Board of Directors Meeting- Chamber office5:30 pm 2nd Thursday Networking Mixer — Spare Time - Clifton Park. General Admission: $20, Chamber members: $10. Sponsored by: Capital Bank

15 MondayPresident’s Day - Chamber office closed

17 Wednesday7:30am-9:30am Seminar to be announced—Chamber Executive Education Center. General Admission: $20,Chamber Members: $10 includes continental breakfast courtesy ofVia Panera Catering.

Sponsored by: Padgett Business Services

New Members Maple Ski Ridge Family Run Recreational Ctr. Ms. Kate Michener 2725 Mariaville Road Rotterdam, NY 12306 Phone: (518) 381-4700 Email: mapleskiridge@msn.com Website: www.mapleskiridge.com Sponsor: Rebecca DuBois Coffee News of the Capital Region Tri City Rentals Apartment Rentals Ms. Julie Massry-Knox 255 Washington Ave., Ext. Albany, NY 12205 Phone: (518) 862-6600 Email: jmassryknox@tricityrentals.com Website: www.tricityrentals.com HectorPT Senior Rehabilitation Services Outpatient Rehabilitation Svcs. Mr. Hector Jasen MSPT 1 Wall Street Clifton Park, NY 12065 Phone: (518) 577-5214 Email: hectorpt@nycap.rr.com Website: www.hectorpt.com

Gremar Creations, Inc. Arts/Crafts Mr. Greg Zoltowski 1435 Parkwood Blvd. Schenectady, NY 12308 Phone: (518) 280-3902 Email: gremar@nycap.rr.com Website: www.gremarcreations.com National Association of Purchasing Managers Non-Profit Mr. Douglas Axelson, CPM 28F Hollandale Lane Clifton Park, NY 12065 Phone: (518) 280-9223 Email: axelsond@aol.com Website: www.ism.ws/sites/earnny/index.htm Crescent Village Apartments Apartment Complex Ms. Julie Knox Walnut Drive Clifton Park, NY 12065 Phone: (518) 371-5800 Website: www.crescentvillage.com

Please Pull Out and Place in the Chamber Membership Directory and Resource Guide

CHAMBER WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS December 2009

It’s Good To Do Business With Members!

Pasta Pane Rustic Italian Bistro Restaurant Ms. Nancy Bambara 63 Putnam Street Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Opening in Clifton Park early 2010 Phone: (518) 583-1142 Email: nancy@dzrestaurants.com Website: www.dzrestaurants.com Coldwell Banker Prime Properties-Janice Styles-Hall Real Estate Sales/Service Ms. Janice Styles-Hall 1754 Route 9 Clifton Park, NY 12065 Phone: (518) 944-7676 Email: janicestyleshall@yahoo.com Website: www.janicestyles-hall.com

New Members: Affiliates of Saratoga Hospital Website for All: www.saratogahospital.org Saratoga Family Health Center Ms. Carol Williams 119 Lawrence Street Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Phone: (518) 581-7730 Galway Family Health Center Ms. Carol Williams Route 147 Sacandaga Road Galway, NY 12074 Phone: (518) 882-6955 Schuylerville Family Health Center Ms. Carol Williams 200 Broad Street Schuylerville, NY 12871 Phone: (518) 695-3668

Mollie Wilmot Radiation Oncology Center Ms. Renee Russell 211 Church Street Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Phone: (518) 580-2800 Regional Therapy Center Ms. Peggy Lounsbury 100 Saratoga Village Blvd. Suite 34 Ballston Spa, NY 12020 Phone: (518) 583-8383 Wilton Medical Arts Ms. Joanne Hughto 3040 Route 50 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Phone: (518) 580-2273 Malta Medical Arts Ms. Julie Demaree 2388 Route 9 Mechanicville, NY 12118 Phone: (518) 289-2024

Please Pull Out and Place in the Chamber Membership Directory and Resource Guide

CHAMBER WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS December 2009

It’s Good To Do Business With Members!

New Members: Affiliates of Saratoga Hospital Saratoga Surgery Center Ms. Brenda Peoples-Jones 3050 Route 50 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Phone: (518) 693-4400 Saratoga Hospital Foundation Ms. Terry Lee 211 Church Street Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Phone: (518) 583-8789 Saratoga Family Physicians Ms. Kathleen Kelly 3044 Route 50 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Phone: (518) 886-5800

Pain Management Center of Saratoga Hospital Ms. Brenda Peoples-Jones 3050 Route 50 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Phone: (518) 886-5100 Saratoga Hospital Center-Endocrinology & Diabetes Ms. Brenda Peoples-Jones 3050 Route 50 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Phone: (518) 886-5100

Please Pull Out and Place in the Chamber Membership Directory and Resource Guide

CHAMBER WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS December 2009

It’s Good To Do Business With Members!

24TH ANNUAL BUSINESS CLIMATE SURVEY

Please take a few minutes to complete the survey below and mail on or before January 28, 2010

The results will be compiled by Marvin and Company, P.C., The University at Albany School of Business and your Chamber of Commerce

1. In 2009, our overall business: a) Increased b) Remained stable c) Decreased 2. We estimate gross sales in 2010 will be: a) Under $1 million b) $1 million to $3 million c) $3 million to $5 million d) Over $5 million 3. In 2010, we believe our business will: a) Increase b) Remain stable c) Decrease 4. We expect our employment level in 2010 to: a) Increase b) Remain stable c) Decrease 5. Please rank your major concerns as you enter 2010: Number in Order of Importance (1=most important--10=least) __ a) Finding qualified employees __ b) Health care costs __ c) Workers’ compensation __ d) National economy __ e) Taxes __ f) Government regulations __ g) Transportation __ h) Energy pricing __ i) State budget __ j) Security issues 6. Our primary business is: a) Manufacturing g) Finance/Banking b) Service Industry h) Real Estate c) Wholesale i) Tourism d) Retail j) Professional Services e) Technology k) Other f) Construction/engineering 7. How would you characterize the Capital Region’s economy? a) Prospering c) Stagnant b) Recovering d) Recessionary 8. How do you expect the Capital Region’s economy to perform in the next several years? a) It will prosper b) It will experience little or no growth c) It will struggle

9. The increase in technology-based businesses in the Capital Region has impacted my business: a) Significantly c) Very little impact b) Moderately d) No impact at all 10. Has your optimism about the economy changed since the holiday season? a) more optimistic b) same as before c) less optimistic 11. How does the stock market changes impact your business? a) Significantly c) Very little impact b) Moderately d) No impact at all 12. Have you taken any of the following measures to protect your business from the downturn in the economy? Number in Order of Importance (1=most important--10=least) __ a) found new ways to manage cash flow __ b) made purchases in bulk __ c) reduced staff __ d) cut back on business travel __ e) frozen salaries __ f) asked employees to pay a greater percentage of health insurance premiums __ g) acquired equipment under the Economic Stimulus Act to accelerate depreciation and increase tax write offs __ h) begun doing more tasks electronically to save on paper, printing and postage __ i) reached out to new markets __ j) reduced owners income/benefits

If you are submitting the survey electronically, please email it to:

survey@marvincpa.com. If you have printed this and are filling out the survey manually, please return it to us, via mail, at:

Marvin and Company, P.C.

11 British American Boulevard Latham, NY 12110-1405

ALL OTHERS, PLEASE FOLD AND MAIL SO THE

ADDRESS ON THE BACK IS VISIBLE I am a member of: (Required) Name of Chamber: If you would like to start receiving Marvin and Company, P.C.’s News ‘N Views on-line newsletter, please print clearly your e-mail address and name/company below: Email: Name/Company:

Ken Carlstedt of Momentive Performance Materials and Todd Bonesteel of Dynamic

Systems will discuss the transition from a domestic-focused business to a global business.

They will also cover issues on how to proceed and the risks of growing. The speakers will

reassure people about exporting and going global.

January 21, 2010One Computer Drive South7:30am Check-in & Networking; 8 – 9:30 am programCost $20

Register today at acchamber.org/events.aspx or call 518.431.1400

From Small to Large Through Trade:

Shedding Light on Your PathIncrease sales and profits throughexporting and importing

EVENT

TVGBN is a collaboration of the Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce, Center for Economic Growth, the Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Chamber of Schenectady County and the Chamber of Southern Saratoga County