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They're all under 40, yet they've all already done so much in their lives and for our communities. Catch some inspiration in our profiles of Sullivan County's Young Professionals!
Citation preview
‘FEATURING 18 UP AND COMERS
IN OUR BUSINESSCOMMUNITY’
A special section of the SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT April 11, 2014 • Section Y • Callicoon, NY
ProfessionalsYoung
Sponsored in part by
SullivanRenaissance
Where service with a smilemakes dollars and sense
2Y YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT APRIL, 2014
Attention all parents and employers!
The Sullivan County Child Care Council, Inc.is here to solve all of your child care problems.
Visit us on the web: www.scchildcare.comor call us at: (845) 292-7166 or (877) 292-7190
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5
STORY AND PHOTO BY KATHY DALEY
Ask Stacey Kuhn about the joysof life in the banking world,and she lights up like a new
gold coin.“Banking used to be a dollars-and-
cents-related industry,” says Stacey,who serves as branch manager andsales coordinator for the Jeff Bank’smain office in Jeffersonville. “Now it’sa service-related industry. It’s totallyabout people.”
With the official title of assistantvice president — an honorific thatrecognizes quality work, dedicationand going the extra mile, Stacey notes— her job consists of doing “every-thing.”
Supervising staff, handling cus-tomers, working on loans are all in aday’s work, and “if it means running ateller drawer, I do it.”
At the same time, she sees the moti-vator for her energies as sheer serv-ice.
“I’m here for my customers, I’mhere for my staff,” said Stacey. “I seemyself as working for them.”
In addition, part of her job is con-necting with customers beyond theMain Street bank building.
“On a regular basis, branch man-agers make calls to business cus-tomers, to build new relationshipsand strengthen the loyal relation-ships we’re so fortunate to have,”explained Stacey. “It’s like a tempera-ture check. It’s anticipating theirneeds.”
Most of those calls link the bankwith owners of small businesses –from therapists to car repair shopowners. Home-based businesses likesmall consulting firms and marketingcompanies are growing as a customer
base, too.A 2001 graduate of Honesdale High
School, Kuhn, whose maiden namewas Conley, grew up in Narrowsburgand never considered banking as herfuture. She worked as a dental assis-tant, a cosmetologist and, at theCenter for Discovery, as a patient liai-son.
But after she married Donald Kuhnand began raising their childrenKyleigh and Donald Jr., Stacey beganseeking a job close to their Eldred
home.She trained as a teller and worked at
Jeff Bank’s Narrowsburg and Eldredbranches. In 2010, the bank promot-ed her to Eldred branch manager.Then in January 2013, she accepted apromotion to the larger branch inJeffersonville.
“There’s so much room for oppor-tunity here,” Stacey reflects. “I’mmore than happy with what I’m doingnow – but the world is my oyster interms of being with Jeff Bank.”
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KATHY DALEY | DEMOCRAT
Stacey Kuhn
APRIL, 2014 SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT YOUNG PROFESSIONALS 3Y
STORY AND PHOTO BY KAITLIN CARNEY
Joshua Hughes is a man whodoes what he loves, and loveswhat he does.
As brewmaster for Roscoe BeerCompany, the Weedsport, NYnative cultivates and shares his loveof craft beer on a daily basis.
“I grew up on craft beer and havealways preferred a full-bodied, full-flavored craft beer,” Joshua says. “Isought out new craft brew special-ists and visited breweries, and thenbecame interested in making itmyself. I knew I could craft the per-fect beer for my palate.”
That love, and hobby, turned intoa full-fledged career for Hughesafter attending SUNY Oswego andgraduating from Empire State Col-lege. He joined forces with RoscoeBeer Co. shortly after they received
their brewer’s license, feeling thatthey could both benefit from therelationship.
Joshua loved the mission ofRoscoe Beer Co., and supportedwhat they were doing: sourcing,creating, and distributing a home-town beer that Trout Town, USAcould be proud of.
The primary focus of the 25-year-old Hughes’ role of brewmaster is tocreate new recipes, produce beersto sell, and assist in the warehouse.
“Brewing is a creative outlet, rela-tively unhindered. I test recipes, andI love to brew beer. When I first cre-ated a beer, it was something I trulyenjoyed doing. I could really putmyself into it, something I could putall of my enthusiasm into.”
Hughes developed Roscoe BeerCo.’s Rainbow Red Ale, a take on anIPA (India Pale Ale) with a deep
amber color and IPA characteris-tics, and their Brown Ale. He isworking on creating a special recipefor the Roscoe-Rockland VolunteerFire Department, the heart ofRoscoe.
Joshua looks to the growth of thecompany, and to what it can con-tribute to the local community.
“Our reach will continue to growand Roscoe Beer will be in thehands of more people. We are goingto reshape the local beer market.”
Joshua speaks of stopping off at agrocery store, only to chat with agroup of other shoppers aboutRoscoe Beer, their products, andwhat is on the horizon.
Yet although he is completelyimmersed in the brewing culture(reading books, magazines, andattending conferences), he doesmake time for some hobbies,including fishing, gardening, hik-ing, snowboarding, and ice fishing –anything that gets him outdoors.
But work is his first love. As part ofthe Roscoe Beer Co. family, heknows that he is part of somethingunique, what he calls “a truly local,town-based company.”
Joshua Hughes knows he’spart of something special
KAITLIN CARNEY | DEMOCRAT
Joshua Hughes
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Nolan Levine is part ofproud tradition
at Fallsburg Lumber
Representing the fifth genera-tion of family ownership inone of the longest running
businesses in the area, the 106-year-old Fallsburg Lumber, Nolan Levinerelishes being part of a tradition.
“More than anything else, I justlove working alongside my family,”offered Levine.
As Vice President at FallsburgLumber, Levine, 33, handles manytasks. “Most major purchases, esti-mates, delivery scheduling… I pret-ty much do it all,” he said.
After graduating from Fallsburg
High School in 1998, Levine head offto Binghamton University, where hewould earn a business degree with afocus on finance and marketing
A member of the Fallsburg FireDepartment, and active with vari-ous industry groups including theMid-Hudson Lumber Dealers
4Y YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT APRIL, 2014
Y O U R C O M M U N I T Y
S E R V I N G
From all of your Co-Workers at
ROLLING VBUS CORPORATION
Motor Coaches • School BusesLocally Owned & Family OperatedROUTE 42 SOUTH FALLSBURG 845-434-0511
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CongratulationsNolan
Job Well Done!Keep Up the Good Work
YOU DESERVE TO BE RECOGNIZED for your OUTSTANDING DEDICATION and for
WORKING HARD EVERY DAY!
16605
434-5051
Congratulations Nolanon a
Wonderful Accomplishment!
We wish you continued successin all you do.
Love,Aunt Ellen & Uncle Dean
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CONTINUED ON 5Y
Nolan Levine is the fifth generation of hisfamily to be involved in Fallsburg Lumber,which was founded in 1908.
STORY AND PHOTO BY ELI RUIZ
Association and the Mid-HudsonBuilders Association, Levinebelieves there’s much to belearned from others in the busi-ness.
Asked where he sees himself in10 years, Levine responded,“Hopefully I’ll still be running ourbusiness and we’ll have continuedto grow and succeed. We reallywant to see Sullivan County flour-ish and I think if we do get a casi-no or two for the area … it will go along ways toward that end.”
But ultimately, for this youngprofessional, it’s all about family.Fallsburg Lumber was founded bygreat-great-grandfather SamLevine. Third-generation ownerMonroe Levine – Nolan’s grandfa-ther – was actively involved untilshortly before his recent passing.
Family members still activelyinvolved in the business are hisfather, and former Town of Falls-burg Supervisor Steve Levine,uncle Richard Levine and momEllen Levine, who keeps the busi-nesses books.
“My family has operated thisbusiness for a very long time andthe things I learned from mygrandfather and then my fatherabout this business have beeninvaluable to me,” Nolan reflect-ed. “We’ve always focused onquality product and quality cus-tomer service and I truly love hav-ing the opportunity now to pro-vide the people of Sullivan Countywith a quality product from aquality company… it’s just how wedo business here.”
APRIL, 2014 SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT YOUNG PROFESSIONALS 5Y
Amanda Ward-Almonte brings revolutionary spirit back home
Nolan!Nolan!We are all very proud of you on your well deserved
recognition in this year’s Young Professionals.We wish you continued success
in all your future endeavors.Love from Mom, Dad, and All Your Family, Friends
and Co-workers at Fallsburg Lumber
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STORY AND PHOTO BY ANYA TIKKA
Amanda Ward-Almonte worksas the Senior Director of Train-ing and Workforce Develop-
ment at the Center for Discovery,where’s she’s been already for sevenyears. She’s also an Adjunct Instructorat SUNY Sullivan, where she teachesseveral courses in law.
Wearing many hats comes naturallyto Amanda. Her duties at the Centerfor Discovery include recruiter, train-er, and workforce developer, and pre-viously she worked as a journalist forSports Illustrated and ESPN Maga-zine. She’s also worked as a sportsagent, plus a substitute teacher atFallsburg Central School District.
“That’s where I fell in love withteaching and training,” she recollectswith a smile.
Thirty-three years old Amanda grewup in Fallsburg and loves reaching outto people.
“I wanted to wake up happy going towork,” she says, “I wanted to love mycareer. I want to not just make a dif-ference, but to be a part of somethingrevolutionary.”
Her whole career is community-centered, and the favorite part of herjob is, “The people! Every day I’mafforded the wonderful opportunityto work alongside the greatest talentsin the field and serve individuals whohave limitless abilities. Being a part ofan organization that is revolutionaryhas given me a great sense of content-
ment.”But there are other sides to Aman-
da’s personality, too. She’s quietlywriting a self-help book, and used tobe a competitive figure-skater. Shesays her five-year-old daughterGabriella is her life’s treasure, andthat she’s blessed to have a familythat believes in her, giving her theirunwavering support.
She states she’s an advocate, andmodestly, “I have been told I’ve gotthe ability to make genuine connec-tions with people across all walks oflife with varying cultural back-
grounds.” The community-oriented Amanda
is a member of numerous civicorganizations, among them the Sulli-van County NAACP, Girl Scout Heartof the Hudson Board of Directors,and Sullivan County EconomicDevelopment Steering Committee.
Her favorite quote summarizes herspirit: “The unforeseen crossroadsare not failures, they are merely alter-nate routes toward your success. ...Success is not measured by youraccolades, it is measured by howthose accolades are achieved.”
Amanda Ward-Almonte
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4Y
Nolan Levine
STORY AND PHOTO BY ELI RUIZ
Cochecton resident, musicianand Keats Agency associateagent Brad Rutledge likes to
say he “married into the area.”“I grew up in Cincinnati,” explains
Brad. “I married a Sullivan Countynative, Jackie Weyer, who grew up inSullivan County. The wedding washeld at the Inn at Lake Joseph in 2001,and after several visits to SullivanCounty, I found that I loved this areaand thought it the perfect place toraise our children. We decided to callCochecton home and have been heresince 2005.”
After graduating from ColerainHigh School (in Cincinnati) in 1993,and while attending the University ofCincinnati, Brad would discover histrue calling.
“It was around this time that I decid-ed to pursue a career in sales," offersBrad, adding, "I started out sellingnew Toyotas, which lasted about fourmonths. I sold a new 4 Runner to agentleman who managed a mortgagecompany, and he recruited me tocome on board as a loan officer. Ispent many years in mortgages beforedeciding that I wanted to learn moreabout the insurance field. I obtainedmy insurance licenses and went towork for Allstate Insurance.”
Later, after making the move toSullivan County, he joined the KeatsAgency as a Nationwide Insuranceagent, and in 2006, as he recalls, "Ihad the opportunity to expand myinsurance knowledge by workingwith a local wholesale insuranceagency.”
But soon after, he would realize thathe missed his old job.
“I found that working with the pub-lic was more suited to my approach,”he said.
Brad Rutledge:if you don’t
know him yet,you will
6Y YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT APRIL, 2014
CongratsBrad!
Youdeserve it!
from
The Whole Teamat
DR. WHIPPLE’SJackie, Annabelle & Matthew
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CONTINUED ON PAGE 7Y
So in 2012, “I went back to Keats asan associate agent and have neverbeen happier.”
With an insatiable thirst for knowl-edge, Brad is only getting started inhis chosen field.
“I continuously seek opportunitiesto enhance my knowledge in theinsurance field to better serve myclients,” he affirms. “I am currentlylooking to take the classes and examsto become a Certified InsuranceCounselor (CIC).”
As a man who takes pride in work-ing for Keats, which has been in busi-ness for 20 years, Brad says, “I trulyenjoy creating ‘aha’ moments for myclients. In other words, those timeswhere I find a need for coverage thata client didn't know they had and Iam able to provide a competitiveinsurance solution to address it.
“I love it when my clients trulyunderstand their coverage. Insurancecoverage should be customized toeach person or business. It is not one-size-fits-all and is not a commodity. Irest easier knowing that I’ve done the
Brad Rutledge
APRIL, 2014 SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT YOUNG PROFESSIONALS 7Y
15912
‘I really love it when my clientstruly understand their coverage. Insurance coverageshould be customized to eachperson or business.’
very best I can for my clients and thatthe programs I've put in place forthem fit their particular needs."
A singer and rhythm guitarist for thepopular local band “Far BeyondGone,” Brad also gives back to hisadopted community as co-chair ofthe Young Emerging Leaders (YEL, aSullivan County Chamber of Com-merce task force) and sits on not onlythe the Chamber Board of Directors,but the SullivanArc Foundation aswell.
And he has high hopes for his com-munity.
“I’m really looking forward to thefuture of Sullivan County and try toalways look for the positives of thearea,” affirms Brad. “I’ve set my fami-ly’s roots here and think that the sky isthe limit for a revitalization here. I’mlooking forward to the growth that theproposed casino resort destinationswill bring to this area. This will pro-vide opportunities for my insurancebusiness, my band, and for all resi-dents of the county. It’ll be the cata-lyst to great things.”
Asked where he sees himself in tenyears, Brad doesn’t stray too far fromthe present, offering, “I will still berunning the Monticello branch of theKeats Agency as a CIC and will have aclient base and book of business thatrepresents my commitment to Sulli-van County and protecting its busi-nesses and people.
“And I will still be actively involvedwith the community through volun-teer efforts and involvement in theSullivan County Chamber of Com-merce.”
Oh, and a few other importantthings, too.
“I will still be singing and playingguitar – my passion. I will also have adaughter in college, yikes, and a son,Matthew, in his junior year of highschool . . . that’s a lot to look forwardto!”
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‘We’d like to congratulate the young professionals forbeing recognized as the leaders of tomorrow.’
Continued from 6Y
Dory Alport carries onthe family tradition
Fallsburg native Dory Alportalways knew one day she wouldtake over the family’s plumbing
and heating wholesale business, A.Alport and Son.
Continuously in business for 78years, it was founded by Dory’s great-grandfather, Abraham. Dory beganworking full time for her parentsHarris and Judy more than 20 yearsago. Her parents are mainly retirednow.
“I actually grew up in and aroundthe family business,” Dory affirmed.“I’ve done inside sales, showroomsales. I’d say I wear pretty much everyhat here.”
Alport graduated from FallsburgHigh School in 1994, following up herUniversity of Vermont undergraddegree with an MBA from theUniversity of New Hampshire.
As the fourth generation to run thefamily business, Alport has tried tokeep the business model much thesame: “Historically it’s been a hus-band and wife team here running thebusiness, and with my husband [JayFrischman] working here, we’re nowthe team running the business.”
Asked where she expected Alportand Son to be in 10 years, Alportexplained, “We’ve always been amom and pop type business. I dohave definite goals to grow the busi-ness but I will always remain true to
the mom and pop business model.Personalized sales and service. Youjust can’t get that at the massive bigbox stores and it’s something we’llalways stay true to.”
Like most of our young profession-als Alport is involved in the commu-nity and serves on the Board ofDirectors of the Hudson ValleyBuilders Association, is the actingchair for the Town of FallsburgArchitectural Review Board, and, per-haps most importantly, Alport is anactive board member with theSullivan County WorkforceDevelopment Task Force.
“I think job creation and workforcedevelopment are some of the morepressing issues in this county today,”offered Alport. “We’re comprised ofboth public and private sector busi-nesses and work directly with theOne Stop Center (on North Street,Monticello), BOCES and variousother non-profits in hopes of aidingin the development of a competentand qualified workforce and jobs forthe area.”
And regarding her loyal customersand employees, Alport is apprecia-tive. “We have both customers andemployees who’ve been with us morethan 40 years now and I’d like tothank them all for their loyalty andhard work,” she said. “We want togrow, but within our comfort zone.
One thing is for sure, we will alwaysbe a Sullivan County based business.We’ll have to wait and see what thefuture holds for this area, but we’re
definitely not looking to go any-where.”
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Dory Alport represents the fourth generation of her family involvement in A. Alport & Son.She runs the business with husband Jay Frischman.
8Y YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT APRIL, 2014
Young Professionals‘Featuring 18 up and comers in our business community’
Published byCatskill-Delaware Publications, Inc.
Publishers of the
(845) 887-5200 Callicoon, NY 12723
April 11, 2014 • Vol. CXXIII, No. 85
Publisher: Fred W. Stabbert III Senior Editor: Dan Hust
Editor: Frank Rizzo
Sports Editor: Ken Cohen
Editorial Assistants: Jeanne Sager, Kathy Daley, Eli Ruiz
Kaitlin Carney, Anya Tikka
Advertising Director: Liz Tucker
Advertising Coordinator: Sandy Schrader
Advertising Representatives: Katie Peake, Cecilia Lamy
Marketing Director: Laura Stabbert
Business Manager: Susan Owens
Business Department: Patricia Biedinger, Joanna Blanchard
Telemarketing Coordinator: Michelle Reynolds
Classified Manager: Janet Will
Production Associates: Ruth Huggler, Rosalie Mycka,
Tracy Swendsen, Elizabeth Finnegan,
Petra Duffy, Kellee Thelman
Distribution: Richard Conroy
Proud Member of
Serving the weekly
community newspapers of
New York State since 1853
APRIL, 2014 SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT YOUNG PROFESSIONALS 9Y
Congratulations
Keep following yourheart and alwaysdo your best!
We are all so luckyto have youin our lives!
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4
Love Jay
DoryCongratulations Dory
On your selection as aYoung ProfessionalUp & Comer.
In theBusiness Communityby the Sullivan CountyDemocratYou and your fellowhonorees representthe Best ofSullivan County
JUDY & HARRIS ALPORT
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Congratulations DoryOn your well-deservedrecognition as anUp and Coming YoungEmerging ProfessionalIn the Business Communityby the Sullivan CountyDemocrat.You and your fellowhonorees representthe Best ofSullivan County.You are and willcontinue to bea source ofPride and Joy.
Sylvia Rashkin
1596
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Congratulations DoryOn being selected
for the Young ProfessionalsUp and Comers.
We are proud of yourcontribution
to the communityand look forward
to seeing yourcontinued success!
Beth, Roy & Alya
1597
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The latest generation aimsto expand Gasko & Meyer
At 27 years old, John Nober ofGasko & Meyer may be ayoung professional, but his
experience at the family-ownedbusiness in Lake Huntington datesback nearly a quarter of a century.
Gasko & Meyer was started byJohn’s great grandparents in 1939.
John started coming down to thewarehouse on weekends with hisgrandfather, unknowingly learningthe business that would be hiscareer path. His first role at thecompany would be working on theempties and returnables, a far dis-tance from where he sits today.
John now serves as the company’s
Operations Manager. He focuses ongrowing the business, orderingproduct, checking on deliveries,managing inventory, routing thefleet of delivery trucks and manag-ing their drivers, and overseeingwarehouse staff.
The operations of Gasko & Meyer,once only a local beer distributor,now span a delivery area fromBinghamton to Westchester toGlens Falls – a span of 22 counties.They’ve purchased CountyFountain Supplies – a Monticello-based company supplying Coca-Cola products, syrups, and more –
STORY AND PHOTO BY KAITLIN CARNEY
10Y YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT APRIL, 2014
WAYTO GOJOHN!
We’re So Proud of
All You’ve Accomplished.
Keep up the hard Work!
From the Whole TeamAND
The Nober and Tugender Families
Cheers!Cheers!16
622
Here’s to a Great Job, John!
We would like to raise our glassand congratulate you on all the hard work which
has earned you so much success. All the best,
Andrew, Katie & Laura16628 CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
APRIL, 2014 SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT YOUNG PROFESSIONALS 11Y
845-794-6639Ask for Les or Gene
Kristt Company featuringKyocera TASKalfa &Ecosys color
1569
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Give the world the best you have, and the best will come to you!
KOHLER LUMBERRt. 52, Jeffersonville, NY 12748
845-482-5290 482-5117 Fax 482-4270
From your friends at
& B U I L D I N G M A T E R I A L S
CONGRATULATIONS,
JOHNfor this recognition
of all your hard work!
6069
CONGRATULATIONS JOHN!
Narrowsburg, NY 845701-0242Additions • Roofi ng � Renovations & Remodeling
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to expand their product line, and areworking on purchasing a building inKingston to serve as a delivery hub,enhancing their ability to reachnorthern territories.
Gasko & Meyer has also increasedthe product line from their initialofferings of Schaefer and otherdomestics to imported and craftbeers and a wine and spirits divi-sion.
The Misericordia University grad-uate looks forward to aiding in thecontinued growth of his family’s 75-year-old business.
“My favorite thing is that no dayhere is the same,” says John. “Thereare different problems, a differentchallenge. ... The best part is gettingthose problems solved.”
When he’s not working, John likesto go boating, relax, or watch sports.
“I put in a lot of long hours here,but when I get the opportunity, Ilove to be out on the lake.”
John Nober puts a lot of hours into Gasko &Meyer, his family’s business.
Donna Gulotta is aboutmaking a difference
Monticello native DonnaGulotta wants to affectchange in Sullivan County.
“I hope to help the misdirectedyouth of Sullivan County to bettertheir lives,” says the single mom. “Iwant to help build a solid foundationfor the future of Sullivan County."
Donna is currently pursuing hercertification as an alcohol and sub-stance abuse counselor at SUNYSullivan, but for the last six years shehas worked at Monticello HomeGarden and Farm – in business since1987 – where she manages their BetaPets and Supplies division, work shetruly relishes.
“I enjoy interacting and caring for
the animals, plus I also enjoy socializ-ing and educating the community onhow to care for and bond with them,”she said.
Donna also remains active in thecommunity, as she’s also involved invarious animal rescue organizationsand donates to the Federation for theHomeless on a weekly basis.
“I think it’s important to give backto your community – it’s where I workand live,” she offers.
As for her spare time, Donnaspends much of it with herMonticello High School freshmandaughter, Jordyn Lynn, and alsoenjoys the outdoors, reading and, ofcourse, “there’s the animals!"
Donna Gulotta
STORY AND PHOTO BY ELI RUIZ
12Y YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT APRIL, 2014
BETTA PETS & SUPPLIES
MONTICELLO FARM HOME & GARDEN
Congratulations Donna
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420 Route 17B - Monticello, NY • 794-5430Enter through Monticello Farm, Home & Garden 16
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APRIL, 2014 SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT YOUNG PROFESSIONALS 13Y
BY FRED STABBERT III
Franklin Trapp was born to beon stage. From his first role as aschool-age kid in “The Sound of
Music” Trapp was captured by theacting bug.
“I started performing back when Iwas a little kid,” he said. “Being in theSound of Music was very appropri-ate, especially with my last name.”
The award-winning Broadwaymusical, set in Austria during theheat of World War II, centers aroundCaptain von Trapp’s quest not tobecome a Nazi in the German Navyand how the Trapp Family singersescape Austria.
The acting bug bit again for Trappin both high school and college.
“I took the most obvious route tobecoming an actor, I studied tobecome a Spanish professor,” Trappsaid with a laugh. “But the acting bugbit me again and I moved to New Yorkto give it a shot.
“Forestburgh Playhouse was one ofmy early jobs,” Trapp recalled.
But Trapp also had other irons inthe fire and found a job “on tour witha show.”
Following the tour, Trapp decidedto return to Forestburgh but a call toowner Norman Duttweiler wentsomething like this: “No, I don’t haveanything, thanks.”
A few months later Duttweilercalled Trapp back to tell him he had aposition and the talented actorearned his equity card and per-formed there for four years. He alsodid stints writing and directing chil-dren’s shows, directing cabarets anddirecting the Playhouse’s first pro-duction of “The Sound of Music.”
“My favorite role was as theyounger brother in ‘Ragtime,’ ” hesaid. “The role was very fiery and pas-sionate and all about equality.”
He added, “During the play I had avery heated discussion and the audi-ence applauded.”
In 2006, Trapp took a hiatus fromthe theater to attend Vanderbilt Uni-versity Law School, earning hisdegree in 2009.
But the theater and beautifulenchantment of the mountainscalled his name again.
“When you think about it, SullivanCounty is such a beautiful part of the
country,” Trapp said. “It’s poised onthe brink of exciting new changesand I’m looking forward to being apart of [those changes].”
Trapp worked with ForestburghPlayhouse owner Norman Duttweilerto purchase the playhouse and theduo are getting very close to raisingthe curtain on the 2014 season.
With such hits as “A Murder isAnnounced,” “My Fair Lady,”“Mame” (with Loretta Swit), “TheBest Little Whorehouse in Texas,”“Mary Poppins,” “The Chosen” and“La Cage Aux Folles,” it is sure to be agreat season.
“I’m very excited about the resident[acting] company, too,” Trapp said.“And looking forward to them suc-ceeding. I’m so happy to be a part ofit. I can’t wait to see the audience.”
And as Sullivan County raises itscurtain on so many new develop-ments, the oldest summer stock the-ater in New York State is poised to dothe same for its 68th season withyoung professional Franklin Trapp asthe new producer.
New Forestburgh producer excited about first year
Franklin Trapp played Barrett, the coal sto-ker, in the 2003 Playhouse production of“Titantic.”
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14Y YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT APRIL, 2014
Congratulationsto Brandon
Congratulationsto Brandon
and Good Luckin All your Future Endeavors!
Also, Thank You to Allthe employees
at Wagner Masonry!
and Good Luckin All your Future Endeavors!
Also, Thank You to Allthe employees
at Wagner Masonry!16623
Keep Upthe
Good Work
BRANDON!
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Congrats to Brandon& All the Young Professionals!
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EXCAVATION CUSTOM BUILT HOMES 1664
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APRIL, 2014 SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT YOUNG PROFESSIONALS 15Y
Building on his family’ssolid foundation
A Winning Tradition… Since 1891
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A Winning Tradition… Since 1891
Twenty-one-year-old BrandonWagner has been workingalongside his dad as long as he
can remember – or at least goingaround with him in his truck, he rec-ollects with a smile. In the officewhere he’s filling the shoes as “youngboss/laborer” hang photos of himand his brother doing just that.
Wagner Masonry in Narrowsburgwas started by his father Chris in1987, and now he’s in the process oftaking over the running of the compa-ny. Among his duties are building thebusiness physically and mentally byfiguring estimates and layouts, as wellas working as a laborer.
Brandon speaks highly of the work-ers: “Our company really works wellbecause they work so well. We can goto a job site, give them a plan, and it
will be done in no time.”Brandon has learned all aspects of
the business from his family. “My father has had the biggest
impact on me, because he was a verygood, hard worker, and he taught memany things throughout my life so farthat I wouldn’t learn anywhere else. Ilearned everything about this jobfrom my dad.”
His mom Cindy also works in theoffice, and Brandon says, “They reallypushed me to work hard and toachieve great things.”
Starting as a laborer, and workinghis way up, Brandon still loves to cre-ate things with his hands. He says thefavorite part of what he does is “to beable to build something with yourhands, and to look back and think orsay, ‘I did that’.”
Wagner Masonry does all kinds ofconcrete projects, including all typesof structural concrete, footings, walls,retaining walls, floors, and sidewalksand patios. Their clients includeGranite Associates, Monticello Motor
Club, Villa Roma, and Frost ValleyYMCA.
“I like the physical work,” Brandonconcludes. “I like to build all sorts ofstructures.”
STORY AND PHOTO BY ANYA TIKKA
Brandon Wagner
Cara Kowalski brings joy
to her work every day
Cara Kowalski, whoworks as the VolunteerCoordinator at Sulli-
van Renaissance, lists amongher duties bringing back tolife “Rennie the Rooster,” theSullivan Renaissance mas-cot. Indeed, the lively 24-year-old is keen to bring anew perspective to the program – shewillingly dresses up in a rooster cos-tume during events.
“I just feel it could be a bit morefun,” she explained with a smile.
Among her “real” duties are run-ning the Volunteer Corps program,assisting beautification groups thatreceive Sullivan Renaissance funding,working with community outreachefforts, and taking care of socialmedia.
Cara feels strongly about communi-ty work.
“I really like working with people –all of the energy and the challengesthat it entails. It pushes you to bemore understanding, more creative,and generally more self-aware,” sheexplained. “Being able to help some-one, directly or indirectly, is veryrewarding.”
Before coming to SullivanRenaissance, she workedfor a community actionagency in Saratoga Springs,her hometown. But shestarted her community-ori-ented career before that, inSpokane, WA through JesuitVolunteer Corps Northwest,
where she managed the food bank’svolunteer program, among otherduties.
“I really liked that,” she said.Cara’s favorite part of her job now is
“knowing that I’m facilitating andstrengthening opportunities forimpactful community involvement.I’ve also had a lot of new and enrich-ing experiences here. I’m continu-ously learning, and I get to work withgreat people, both in and out of theoffice.”
Cara holds a degree in geographyand sociology from SUNY Geneseo,and she belongs to the Liberty LionsClub and Monticello InterfaithCouncil.
She says, “Sullivan Renaissance isall about places, people and the con-nection between the two – and I getto explore all of that on a daily basis!
I’m very thankful for my education.” Cara really likes working with vol-
unteers, and her favorite expression
by Lao Tzu summarizes her dedicatedspirit: “Great acts are made up ofsmall deeds.”
16Y YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT APRIL, 2014
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STORY AND PHOTO BY ANYA TIKKA
Cara Kowalski
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APRIL, 2014 SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT YOUNG PROFESSIONALS 17Y
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STORY AND PHOTO BY ELI RUIZ
Twenty-two-year-old JeromeMaldonado is the epitome ofthe overachiever.
A resident at one of the many “sup-portive apartments” maintained bySullivanArc, Maldonado began work-ing in the maintenance departmentat New Hope Community in LochSheldrake starting in August 2012.
But soon Maldonado’s secret gotout: he could cook.
“We found out he had some expe-rience with cooking,” said NewHope’s Director of Supportive
Employment Carl Santos, adding,“As soon as we realized he could, wemade the move” – Maldonado wastransferred to New Hope’s“Community Bistro,” where employ-ees can order fresh made meals forbreakfast and lunch.
As Santos tells it, it was New HopeSupportive Employment CoordinatorRonald Totten who first identifiedMaldonado’s strength. “He [Totten]came to me and said ‘I think we havea great employee here,’ ” heexplained. “So we decided to bringhim into our program.”
In October of last year Maldonadostarted his new job at CommunityBistro, and the move has certainlyworked out for the best. As Santosput it, “He’s just been excellent andthrived in the kitchen. It turned outto be the perfect fit for Jerome and wehave no regrets. He’s always thereready to do everything from prepwork, cooking and running the regis-ter. He just has a very positive, greatpersonality and has developed awonderful rapport with everyonehere at New Hope.”
As for his influences in the kitchen,Maldonado quickly cites his mother:“She taught me how to cook,” he said“She taught me everything I know.”
Maldonado admits that his favoritekitchen activity is baking, and rumorhas it the young man makes a “meancheesecake.”
Having graduated from SullivanCounty BOCES’s culinary program inJune, 2013, Maldonado has evenloftier goals: “I want to become amaster chef,” he affirms. “That’s mygoal… master chef.”
“I love it [cooking],” exclaimedMaldonado. “I have a passion forcooking and the people and cus-tomers I work with are wonderful…they love me.”
Maldonado finds his niche in the kitchenJerome
Maldonadodiscovered a
passion forcooking and
hopes tobecome a
master chefsome day.
18Y YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT APRIL, 2014
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APRIL, 2014 SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT YOUNG PROFESSIONALS 19Y
STORY AND PHOTO BY ANYA TIKKA
‘In the back of my head, I alwayswanted to be a nurse,” said KimPorter, RN, at Dr. Paul Salzberg’s
Family Practice Office in Callicoon. After working for years in insurance
and moving away from SullivanCounty, she finally listened to thatfeeling and went back to school, thistime for nursing – instead of studyingbusiness, like she first did after highschool.
“I realized I like working with peo-ple rather than with figures,” 33-year-old Kim said. “I love helping people. ...I try to help my patients as much as Ican.”
Kim grew up in Callicoon andmoved with her husband Neil to
North Carolina and then Tennesseewhen the company she worked forrelocated. Eventually the familyreturned to the area.
Kim said she was fortunate to stayhome for several years after her kidswere born while her husband worked.Her son Taylor is now 17, and daugh-ter Mackenzie is 15.
When it came time to return to theworkforce, Kim decided to go back toschool, studying nursing at SUNYSullivan.
“In 2006 I became a RegisteredNurse,” she recollected.
Kim is continuing her studies thisyear for a Bachelor’s Degree online,and plans to continue for her Master’slater.
Her job duties include triage nurs-
ing, patient education, administra-tion of immunizations/injections,assisting doctors and nurse practi-tioners with procedures, and review-ing of lab results.
She’s also a Coordinator of Vaccineprograms, which includes sendingmonthly reports for New York State,
and she does the inventory andordering of all medical supplies, plustranscribing doctors’ notes.
She takes EKGs, and monitors com-pliance with federal regulations.
The best part?“I enjoy interaction with people,”
Kim affirmed.
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STORY AND PHOTO BY KAITLIN CARNEY
Melinda Ketcham Meddaughis a firm believer that if youwant things to change, you
have to participate in making themdifferent.
A graduate of Monticello HighSchool, SUNY Sullivan, SUNYPurchase and Vermont Law (whereshe received her Master’s inEnvironmental Law and Policy),Melinda gives back to the communityin both her professional and volun-teer life.
Her current career is a shared posi-tion: the Agriculture and NaturalResource Issue Leader at CornellCooperative Extension andAgriculture Planner for SullivanCounty. Melinda’s primary projectscenter on agriculture and environ-mental & economic development.
At Cornell Cooperative, she worksclosely on the greenhouse and hightunnel project: a kickoff to year-round vegetable production classesfor farmers and non-farmers alike,and leads the educators who offer
livestock and master gardening. For Sullivan County, Melinda works
on the Farmland Protection Plan,aimed at economic development andprotection of the county’s farms.
“Sullivan County is important tome – this is where I live, where I amfrom, and where my family is,” shesays. “A lot of my generation movedaway from Sullivan County because
they feel there is no opportunity here.But there are so many opportunities,and there’s so much to do (outdoors,arts, farming). I’ve chosen to get outand get involved. I believe that if youwant to see change, you have to makeit happen.”
And that mantra is what leadsMelinda on her career path, with vol-unteerism as her starting board.
Looking to enhance her Rock Hillcommunity, Melinda, as president ofthe Rock Hill Business Association,worked with Sullivan Renaissanceand the Rock Hill Volunteer FireDepartment to create the area that ishome to Rock Hill’s Farmers Market.That area was cleared, landscaped, agazebo was added and events began,including live music.
The market gave access to localfoods, allowed local farmers to mar-ket their goods, and started Melindaon her path of agriculture enhance-ment and development.
At 32 years old, she is a young pro-fessional who sees many years of bet-tering her community in front of her.
Beyond her work with SullivanRenaissance and the Farmer’sMarket, Melinda is also a member ofthe Town of Thompson PlanningBoard.
In her little free time, she lovesaccessing the outdoors (hiking,kayaking, and snowshoeing) orspending time with her husband (andproject partner) Josh, and their dogand cat.
The local environment is Melinda Meddaugh’s life and work
Melinda Meddaugh
20Y YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT APRIL, 2014
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STORY AND PHOTO BY ELI RUIZ
Eric Goldstein has been in theinsurance business for quitesome time.
Though he spent his early years inSouth Fallsburg, he and his familywould make the move to Neversink,where, in 1997, he graduated from Tri-Valley High School.
In 2001, Eric earned his Bachelor’sdegree in Business Administrationfrom Delaware Valley College.
Soon after graduating, Eric foundwork with Merrill Lynch as part of theirannuities and insurance division.
In 2003, he came home to the 85-year-old Misner Agency.
“I had worked in the businessthroughout high school and college,but when I came back full-time, it wasa unique time in the insurance indus-try after the terrorist attacks of Sep-tember 11th,” he recalled.
Part of his duties now at the MisnerAgency include seeking out newclients, retaining customers, andmaintaining relationships with the
numerous insurancecompanies represent-ed by the firm.
“I enjoy workingwith our manyclients as well as ouragency staff. Insur-ance is not a one-size-fits-all solution.I enjoy working witha customer to under-stand their uniqueneeds and then fitthem with what Ithink is the best pro-tection at the mostcompetitive price.
“The needs of manyinsureds havechanged over the pastcouple of years asnew threats and dis-asters have occurred.I like the challenge ofseeking out new cov-erage types that we can offer to ourcustomers.
“I also enjoy working with our staff,”
Eric affirms. “I think sometimes asbusiness owners we tend to take ourstaff for granted. Through the trying
economic times that we haveexperienced over the past cou-ple of years, we have been for-tunate enough to have a staffthat really focuses on the needsof the customer and hashelped me grow professionally.
“I don’t want to mentionages, but many of the staffhave been in the insurancebusiness longer than I havebeen alive, and I am fortunateto be able to tap into theirknowledge!”
Eric also remains active inthe community, contributingto various area organizations,including the Federation forthe Homeless and the NACLTheater.
A true family man, whenasked where he sees himself in10 years, Eric quicklyanswered, “I have three young
daughters. In 10 years, they willall be teenagers. I think that prettymuch sums up what I will be doing in10 years!”
Home is where Eric Goldstein’s heart – and business – isAPRIL, 2014 SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT YOUNG PROFESSIONALS 21Y
Congratulations, Ericon your being selected
as a young professional of the year.We are all very proud of you.
THE MISNER AGENCY INC.H.J. HOCKENBERY AGENCY
754 Route 284Westtown, NY 10998
845-434-7755
misneragency.com
1592
1
Greg J. Goldstein
WOODBOURNE489 State Route 52, Woodbourne, NY 12788
845-434-7755
BLOOMINGBURG85 Main Street
Bloomingburg, NY 12721845-434-7755
LIVINGSTON MANOR52 Main Street
Livingston Manor, NY 12758845-434-7755
MelindaYou do great work. Congratulations!
Hon. Mark & Robin Meddaugh
1669
4Eric Goldstein
Carlucci findshome at
Villa RomaSTORY AND PHOTO BY ELI RUIZ
The hospitality industry hasserved young professionalAnthony Carlucci well.
The Bronx native (Carlucci’s familymoved to Sullivan County when hewas 8) got his start as a bellhop at theVilla Roma Resort & ConferenceCenter soon after graduating fromMonticello High School.
Having done everything from secu-rity, transportation and maintenancefor the venerable Callicoon hotel,Carlucci was named its conventionservices manager just before the Villareopened after a devastating fire in2006 that took down the property’s
main building.Two years later Carlucci would be
managing the entire hotel.“I truly enjoy the interaction with
the many guests that come throughour doors,” said Carlucci. “This is avacation for people, and you general-ly get to see them at their best, andbeing able to tell some of our interna-tional exchange guests that come tothe Villa Roma exactly what SullivanCounty has to offer is always fun.Sometimes, they are just blown awayby what there is to do right here.”
As for where he sees himself in 10years, Carlucci remains focused ongrowth: “Throughout the course ofworking here I’ve enrolled in variousonline degree programs through theUniversity of Phoenix and Cornell,”he explains. “Right now I’m workingtowards my CHA (Certified HotelAdministrator) Certification and myultimate goal is to become a generalmanager at the property and go fromthere. I am looking forward to thefuture and really hope to be able tohelp lead the hotel to the next level.”
Carlucci has also taken a very activerole in helping his friend and busi-ness partner, Darrin Eddleglass,
reopen the long-closed Skater’s Worldroller skating rink in Ferndale.
“I’ve helped promote and assist inthe reopening of Skater’s World toensure there is another thing for ourcommunity to do locally,” Carluccisaid of the facility, which officiallyreopened the weekend of April 5.
Though it seems as if the sky’s thelimit for Carlucci in his chosen field,he remains humble and remembersthose who’ve helped along the way.
“I’ve met so many different peoplethrough my work at the Villa Roma,some of whom have become likefamily,” he said. “This includes thePassante family, who have treated melike their own since day one, and ofcourse [President] Paul Carlucci (norelation) who has become a mentorand had always been there to helpme further my career.”
“Although I was not born here, thisis certainly my home now and I’mproud of that,” affirmed Carlucci.
Carlucci concluded, “There are a lotof really wonderful people in SullivanCounty and I am very much lookingforward to seeing the future ofSullivan County and the growth thatis right on the horizon.”
22Y YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT APRIL, 2014
Callicoon, N.Y. • (845) 887-4880
www.villaroma.com
CONGRATULATIONS TONYon your well deserved
recognition
From all of usat
16549
Anthony Carlucci has “done everything” at the Villa Roma Resort, and now manages themain hotel.
APRIL, 2014 SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT YOUNG PROFESSIONALS 23Y
STORY AND PHOTO BY ANYA TIKKA
The sense of wanting to give backto the community is very strongin Lauren Mastandrea, 27, an
attorney who works for FrancesClemente Law Practice in Callicoon.
“I want to help this area, this com-munity, and county to grow, especial-ly in Family Law,” she said. “I don’tthink there are enough people tomake the whole process more acces-sible to people.”
Lauren specializes both in SmallBusiness Formation and Family Law.
“They are very different,” sheexplained. “In law school I specializedin business transactions, but when Igraduated, I immediately began han-dling a lot of Family Law cases here atClemente.”
A Roscoe resident, Lauren went tolaw school in Michigan, thenreturned to Sullivan County.
“I was very fortunate to find localwork,” she said.
She interned with the firm while stillin college.
She deals with divorce, custody, andchild support, and would like to seeone Family Law Center where peoplecan come in and sit down to talk – notnecessarily to an attorney, but tosomeone who gives parenting skills,referrals and so on, instead of beingbounced between different agencies.
Lauren stated, “It would help ratherthan going to court. It’s one of thebiggest, most dramatic decisions in aperson’s, a family’s, life, and it affectseveryone around.”
She wants people to be moreinformed – and the information to beeasily accessible.
Lauren said she doesn’t know anyother young lawyers in the county,but she’s stayed to give Sullivan newideas, new energy, and methods.
“What we’re now taught in lawschool is different from 20-30 yearsago. We’re taught a more accessibleapproach to law, a practicalapproach.”
What motivates her? “It’s being able to give a voice to
people who can’t advocate for them-selves. Basically, you have to be a nav-igator for people through manyimportant life decisions which theymay make.
“This community has given me alot, has contributed to me being whoI am, so I feel like I want to give back.I don’t know what the future is goingto hold, but I’m optimistic.”
Lauren Mastandrea: she cameback to give back
ANYA TIKKA | DEMOCRAT
Lauren Mastandrea
Dear Lauren,
We wish you much success for a bright, challenging& rewarding future in the law business!!
Good Luck!!
Fran, Gail, Debra & Marion
Frances S. ClementeAttorney at Law
P.O. Box 86632 Lower Main StreetCallicoon, NY 12723
(845) 887-6344(570) 729-8607
Fax (845) 887-6341
NEW YORK PENNSYLVANIA
1611
3
CONGRATULATIONS LAUREN!We are so happy for you on this
well-deserved recognition and very proud to be your mom and dad.
Your hard work, ethics and dedication is aninspiration to all of us. We wish you continuedsuccess and happiness in all your endeavors.
You deserve the very best.
We Love You Always, Mom & Dad
16379
Congratulations& Best Wishes, Lauren
for a long and distinguishedLegal Career.
Marc & Joy Mendelsohn
1651
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CongratulationsDear Lauren!!
We are so proud of you,Counselor!
With Love,Frank, Marie, Michele and John
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5
STORY AND PHOTO BY ELI RUIZ
Liberty native Jen Cronk cantruly appreciate the speed withwhich technology changes.
After all, her father opened the fam-ily business, Cronk's Electronics, justthree days before her birth. She’s lit-erally watched the industry firsthandfor her whole life.
“You can never become boredwhen working with electronics,” saysJen. “There are constantly newadvances in the field that keep you onyour toes, and I really enjoy workingwith my dad and being part of anindustry that is ever-changing.”
Twenty-seven years on, Jen is theoffice manager at the North MainStreet business, where she handleseverything from sales and advertisingto team management, bookkeepingand customer service.
Cronk's is changing itself, andalong with electronics, the store willsoon feature a line of brand new bed-ding and appliances.
“We are expanding in big ways and
are very excited,” she affirmed.Jen graduated from Liberty High
and attended SUNY Oneonta, afterwhich she moved to Arizona.
“I liked Arizona but missed my fam-ily and the small-town community,
so I moved home and here I am,” sheexplained. She is now living inMongaup Valley.
Asked where she hopes to be in 10years, Jen offered, “I hope by thattime to be running Cronk’sElectronics. I would like to see thebusiness continue to grow, and whoknows, maybe even have a secondlocation at some point!
“Running a business can some-times be tiring, but at the end of theday, it always gives you that feeling
that you accomplished something,”she added. “I love going home know-ing that I helped make someonehappy by providing them with satel-lite Internet, DirecTV, or a brand newHDTV.
“And I look forward to the dayswhere I know someone will sleepmore comfortably or have an easiertime doing laundry because I soldthem a great quality bed orwasher/dryer, with a smile and at anaffordable price.”
24Y YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT APRIL, 2014
15958
Jen Cronk has a front-row seat to the dazzling world of tech
ELI RUIZ | DEMOCRAT
Jen Cronk
Jen, Congrats on thisachievement!
You deserve it!!
Beth’sHeadquarters
16588