On Thursday, September 26th from 4 ‘til 7, the Chamber’s Business Expo will be showcasing local businesses from this and the neighboring Great Northern Catskills Chamber at Hudson’s Basilica, 110 South Front Street. Admission is free.
Since chambers were initiated, their overarching goal has been to support local business, thereby increasing tax income for counties as well as furnishing jobs and products on a local level. As time passed, the public became less focused on “local”. The shift in consumption slowed and the balance of trade moved off-shore to countries with cheaper and more plentiful work forces. But that attitude is changing. Perhaps as an offshoot of high unemployment or the growing interest in local foods and local farms, now days individuals are more apt to take a look at what is available in the region before making purchasing decisions.
With that in mind, the Business Expo has created an excellent venue in which to see exactly what services are offered and what products are produced in this region. From a service that helps select paint colors to contractors and cabinet builders to a graphic design business focused on long-range goals, Chamber members have diverse businesses. New members include a company that helps clients create more affordable communications systems, experts in iron reinforcing, manufacturers of the plastic netting used as snow and farm fencing, and a B&B located right next to Thomas Cole’s beloved Cedar Grove. For kids, the prospect of taking a paddle board out on the Hudson may be impossible to ignore. Other “kid-friendly” members include an after school program to help girls gain independence and a youth soccer club open to all.
Of course, not all members will participate in this year’s Business Expo. But, those who do will be the representative “good neighbors.” Last year more than 50 participated – eager to introduce themselves and share their knowledge. And, just like last year, restaurants will be providing samples of their cooking and vineyards and breweries will pour tastes of their beverages. A further incentive to those who attend will be drawings offered by individual businesses as well as both of the host Chambers.
In the background will be the sounds of the Oldies 93.5 radio station and the fragrant aroma of Fall apples provided by Fix Bros. Farm (also a member). Music, prizes, local farm products? It’s all by design. These counties have lots to offer, and the Chambers want everyone to feel right at home. Says Dave Colby, Columbia Chamber President, “We want everyone to enjoy themselves. But, our ultimate goal is to introduce all these businesses to residents. For us, local support is the ultimate good neighbor policy.”
2013 Buy Local Business Expo Sponsors:
Major Sponsors
A. Colarusso & Son
E.P. Nevins Insurance Agency, Inc.
First Niagara Bank
Kinderhook Bank
Media Sponsors
Columbia-Greene Media
Oldies 93.5
Mid-Hudson Cablevision, Inc.
Contributing Sponsors
Columbia Economic Development Corporation
Ed Herrington, Inc.
Fingar Insurance
Supporting Sponsors:
The Bank of Greene County
Cinema Screen Advertising Corp
Coarc
Greene County Economic Development, Tourism & Planning
Hawthorne Valley Association
Imby, Inc.
Martinelli Custom Publishing
Pro Printers
Red Apple Realty, Inc.
Shallo, Galluscio, Bianchi & Fucito CPA’s PC
The Spine Institute of Columbia Memorial Hospital
