16th Edition / April 2024 Inside This Issue: 15th Annual Pride of Wyoming Agricultural Dinner Highlights & More! The Offi cial Newsletter of the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Offi ce www.wycochamber.org / www.gowyomingcountyny.com GOLD SPONSORS: SILVER SPONSORS:
T2 April 2024 GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism
April 2024 T3 We are a general law practice specializing in meeting our clients needs. 250 North Main St. | Warsaw, NY 14569 (585) 786-9949 | [email protected] GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism By Scott Gardner It’s starting to feel like spring which brings a renewed sense of hope and excitement for a beautiful season here in Western New York. Summer plans are also starting to shape up and fun area activities are just around the corner. It has been a busy time of work and transition at the Chamber & Tourism office over these past winter months and we are all looking forward to a new season of change. Since our last newsletter, several new businesses have opened in Wyoming County which we have highlighted within this publication usually with a ribbon cutting. It is certainly gratifying to see new businesses open, working with new owners as they start out, and looking for ways to assist them on their business journey. As an organization we get excited with the surge of activity from startups to expansions as the weather warms up and projects begin. It’s always a great time to be a Chamber member, as we continue to offer business member-focused programs from digital marketing, and sexual harassment training, to protecting your business from fraud, and much more. We are open to hosting new learning opportunities that will inform the business community on topics to increase profitability and position them for success. We also have a variety of marketing opportunities available for our member businesses, and we are here to help. The Chamber also offers affordable dental and vision programs, as well as, office supplies and energy savings benefits – just give us a call and we can assist your business. Our annual Shop Wyoming & Win campaign over the holiday season successfully recorded hundreds of thousands in total sales and we definitely appreciate the businesses that participated. It can never be said enough - we have outstanding local businesses in our community and shoppers proved that with all the activity we tracked over the previous holiday season. We also celebrated our annual award winners in November, which is a fun time together recognizing the accomplishments of several deserving businesses. We presented the first ever award for a woman in business to Val Henrici, from Yummies in Warsaw. The Chamber was very pleased to create this new recognition for a woman business owner or leader who is making a difference in both their business and community. This Spring we also welcomed a new addition to the Chamber staff, Jennifer M. Sealy, as our new Director of Business and Visitor Engagement. We look forward to all that Jennifer brings to the organization and hope that everyone has a chance to meet her soon. This year the Chamber also partnered on the annual job fair with WCJW Radio and Community Action for Wyoming County to bring employers and prospective hires together. There are many positions open throughout the area – and many of them can be found on our website and through other readily available sources. On a special note, National Small Business Week is celebrated during the first week of May and takes place from April 28 to May 4 this year. The aim of this week is to honor the entrepreneurs of our country, who have played their part in bringing new ideas to life and growing our economy. I encourage everyone to take a moment during this week to visit your favorite local businesses and recognize them for their hard-work and contribution to our local economy. Finally, on Monday, April 8th, we experienced the much-anticipated solar eclipse, an event we planned for over a year. We want to express our thanks to all the businesses, stakeholders, schools, libraries, and local governments that took part in the planning and organizing process. As we all know, the weather in the best Western New York fashion, did not give us the clearest of skies. A Message from the President New Members Since 9/1/23: Country Belle Farm Store Coveny Construction and Renovations Sunshine Speech Therapy PLLC Genesee Dance Theatre, Inc. Spit Shine Cleaning Shag-N-Wag Grooming Dynamic Dance Studio LLC Studio 22 Fitness Brooks Mechanical LLC Safety with A Passion, LLC Woodlawn Distilling J&S Castile Ag Services, Inc. Marley Funeral Home Light & Dark Electric, Inc. Parkside Diner Home Heating, Cooling & Plumbing LLP Spectrum Health & Human Services Sunrise Courts LLC Maple Grove K-D’s Stop N Shop Charter Communications JZ Haul Services, LLC However, we did all pause for a bit to come together at viewing parties and businesses, in parks and in backyards, to witness a rare celestial event that was uniquely special. On behalf of the Chamber’s membership, Board of Directors, and staff we hope everyone has a safe and fun spring and summer season filled with time together and all of the wonderful activities available during our warmest months. We hope you enjoy time with family and celebrate all that is good about Wyoming County and our great part of the state. Scott A. Gardner, President and CEO Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Promotion Agency
T4 April 2024 GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism Protect Yourself from Cyber Security Threats Cyber Security: This is a term you hear about all the time these days and I wanted to shed some light on this along with who we are and how we help our customers stay protected. Paul Marchese, owner of Marchese Computer Products, Inc., an author of Business Owners Guide to Cyber Security and 2024 Amazon Best Seller From Exposed to Secure, has served Western and Central New York area businesses for more than 40 years, specializing in security and technology solutions for the Small and Medium Business sectors, helping them with all their IT needs. Paul and his team have worked with more than 500 small businesses to integrate technology into their business to maximize growth and opportunities and protect them from online threats. Marchese Computer Products, Inc. is a leading Managed services provider, sales and service for PC’s, servers, and Networks, a NYS licensed Alarm Installer (Video, Fire, and Burglar), a telecom consultant representing over 50 companies including Empire Access, Spectrum, ATT, Verizon, Frontier, First light, and more. Our goal is to remove the burden of IT from our client’s plate so they can spend their time growing their business. Cybercrime is a billion-dollar industry and small businesses are a favorite target. “The average Hacker stays on an infected computer for 217 days. There have been over 560,000 new malware threats just today and half of the attacks are towards small business today.” This is a quote from my new amazon best seller book and it is truly scary!. It is not if but when you will be compromised and how you protect yourself and your assets will determine your outcome. We want to help you ensure you are protected and do not go down the path of fines, lawsuits, loss of revenue and reputational damage. Saying “I did not know” simply does not work. This all being said here are 4 things to know today to get you on the right path: 1. Get End Point Protection – This is not Anti Virus. Currently Anti virus doe not detect the current threats. Norton, McAfee, Avast, ACG, Sophos, Webroot, Kaspersky, are some of the leading Antivirus products and none of them work. Sentinel One EDR is the product we recommend and it was just awarded top protection by Channel Partners. 2. Backup your data. We have seen all too many times an external drive is used to store data. Simply fact - THEY ALL FAIL. You will lose all your data. This is not a good place to be, ever. We recommend external hard drives for backup only , which means your data is on your computer and this is a copy of it not something used as a working device. The 3-2-1 rule is the minimum we recommend. This is 3 copies on 2 devices and 1 offsite in the cloud. I do not want to see anyone lose their photos so please back your data up. 3. Update your machine – This means regular patches, not only for the operating system, but the programs you use. Hackers really like people that are going to “do it tomorrow”, as you and I both know, that simply never happens. Holes in the applications and operating systems allow hackers to get in even with you not clicking on anything. 4. Last but not least – Never Ever use simple passwords and Never Ever use the same password on multiple sites. True story: customer bought machine from big box store (BestBuy or Office Depot, I honestly can’t recall which) they set Microsoft Office 365 up on the machine using his email as the Microsoft login. This customer used a complex password (Hurray!), but used it on all their login sites (Continued on page 6.)
April 2024 T5 246 North Main St., Warsaw, NY 14569 (585) 786-2424 | fax: (585) 786-3024 www.robinsonandhackemer.com Commitment to service and professionalism are the guiding forces behind our funeral homes. fi ere is nothing more important to us than the trust a family places in our ability to help guide them through a most diff cult time. Our goal is to work with each family to provide the service that ffl ts their needs with dignity and honor at a reasonable cost. Joseph P. Robinson John J. Hackemer Providing Comfort During A Difi cult Time Peter Robinson Kelly Keough GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism It was another excellent year for the Wyoming County Chamber’s “Shop Wyoming and Win” annual Buy Local promotion. The organization is pleased to announce the selection of the four lucky winning individuals who were randomly chosen on Tues., February 13, 2024. This year’s winners are: 13th Annual Shop Wyoming and Win: Announcing the Winners! Joshua James from Fillmore, who won a rocker recliner donated by Harding’s Furniture, Flooring & Mattress in Attica/Mt. Morris; Debbie Weber from Warsaw, who won the Gas Grill donated by Ace Hardware Warsaw/Attica; Damien Huber from North Java who won the $500 gift certifi cate from Paws Perrydise in Perry; and Linda Loos from Attica who won the winter fun beverage basket. The Wyoming County Chamber & Tourism holds the annual drawing at the Wyoming County Board of Supervisors’ regular February Meeting. Town Supervisors, Mark Merrill from Wethersfi eld, Doug Berwanger from Arcade, Stan Klein from Castile, and Nathan Rudgers from Covington, assisted by drawing the winning tickets during the meeting. “On behalf of the Chamber and the community, we extend congratulations to all the winners of this year’s “Shop Wyoming and Win” buy-local promotion,” said Chamber President Scott Gardner. “Thank you to the many businesses who participated this year with support and placing of drop boxes. We also thank everyone who shopped locally in Wyoming County, as it was critical to helping our local businesses throughout this holiday season.” “The prizes are made possible with the strong support of local county businesses. We especially thank Ace Hardware of Attica and Warsaw for the generous donation of the gas grill, and Harding’s Furniture, Flooring & Mattress in Attica/Mt. Morris for donating the Rocker Recliner, Paws Perrydise in Perry, Windy Brew, Silver Lake Brewing Project, Buried Barrel Hard Cider, Warsaw Wine and Spirits, Stellar Wines and Spirits, Beer Justice Brewing Company, and Old Souls Catering for their sponsorship of the conditional prize,” concluded Gardner. “These businesses generously donated prizes and we encourage shoppers to stop in to support these outstanding local family-run small businesses throughout the year.” This year marks the 13th year the Chamber has sponsored the holiday promotion as part of the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce’s shop local programs. After weeks of planning and delivering the entry boxes to small businesses all over the county, the contest kicked off on November 24th, Black Friday. This year, 621 shoppers participated by submitting receipts totaling over $781,661 and generating over $62,533 in estimated sales taxes during the promotional period. Participants were required to save their receipts from purchases made in Wyoming County between November 24th and Christmas Eve 2023. They then submitted the receipts by mail, in-person, or in drop boxes by the deadline in early January. For every $50 worth of purchases made in Wyoming County, the participants were eligible for one entry in the drawing that took place on February 13, 2024. Over the past 6 years, the Chamber has tracked over $4 million in consumer spending during the Shop Wyoming and Win promotional period.
T6 April 2024 Wyoming County Offi ce for the Aging Come visit our booth in the Youth (yellow) Building at the Wyoming County Fair If you miss us at the fair, we are located at 8 Perry Avenue, Warsaw, and our phone number is 786-8833 or 1-800-836-0067. Call or stop by for information on long term care services and support for individuals of all ages in Wyoming County. GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism The Chamber was very pleased to announce back in early March, that Perry native, Jennifer Sealy has joined the stafi at the Chamber & Tourism off ce as the new Director of Business and Visitor Engagement. Jennifer resides in her hometown of Perry, New York with a new perspective on a place that built her strong roots in faith, family and community. After college in Oswego, she started a career in zoology that brought her to a few locations along the east coast. Each place brought her valuable experiences, responsibilities Welcome, Jennifer Sealy! and professional growth. Twenty years passed and she decided to move back home. Grounded with a deep respect for its agriculture, gorgeous landscape, hardworking businesses and welcoming communities, she knew Wyoming County was where she wanted to be. She loves music, nature, time with family and anything that involves a good laugh. Jennifer is excited to be a part of the growth in business and tourism for our area and looks forward to getting to know the greater business community. Please feel free to reach out to Jennifer and welcome her to the organization and learn how she can help you. STAFF DIRECTORY Scott Gardner President/CEO [email protected] Eric Szucs Director of Tourism & Marketing [email protected] Jennifer M. Sealy Director of Business and Visitor Engagement [email protected] Cathy Van Remmen & Cooper Ferrini Front Desk Attendants 36 Center Street, Suite A, Warsaw • (585) 786-0307 www.wycochamber.org • www.gowyomingcountyny.com and one of them was compromised, no fault of customer. The ffl rst thing the hacker did was ffl nd out all about the customer on every social media outlet possible. Then proceeded to use the password on all of them…..Including the Microsoft account. Which He took over changed the email and security to his in Russia and sent the customer an email from themselves stating I have your password and it is “AbS!12468”, (not real password), I have changed your Microsoft account and if you want it back you will need to send me $500 in bitcoin to this address. We stepped in and submitted form to Microsoft on behalf of this person that came to us with the problem that was created because the Big Box store set up the account with ZERO protections. Microsoft replied, we are unable to verify please submit additional information. We suspect the account will not be recoverable. Don’t let yourself be a victim like this person, use difi erent passwords on every site and all of them should be at least 13 characters long and contain, Upper and Lower case letters, Numbers, and a symbol or two. The customer referenced above is now on our managed services and has their data backed to a secure encrypted cloud. We can safely state that none of our managed clients have been compromised to date! We are proud to be the oldest technology provider in Western New York as well as a Wyoming County Chamber member for over 20 years. Let us help you remove the burden of IT from your plate so you can spend your time growing your business. Call us today at 585-343-2713 or book a free consultation on our website www.mcpinc. com. Cyber Security Continued from page 4. Submitted Photo
GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism April 2024 T7 15th Annual Pride of Wyoming Agricultural Dinner The 15th annual Pride of Wyoming County Agriculture Dinner, presented by Channel Seed, was held on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at the North Java Fire Hall. Seven outstanding awardees were recognized for their accomplishments and work in the agriculture industry. The Wyoming County Chamber & Tourism office presented the Agri-Business of the Year award to Burley Berries and Blooms-The Creamery, located in Perry. The award is given annually to an agri-business that exhibits any or all of the following criteria including expansion projects, job growth, community involvement, and contributions that strengthen the agricultural industry. Val Henrici from Yummies Ice Cream in Warsaw was recognized for receiving the North American Ice Cream Association Triple Scoop Award, only one of three ice cream shops in the country to receive the award for blue ribbons for vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream flavors. The Good Neighbor Award was presented to Walter Faryna, at Halo Farms, LLC, in Perry, and the Friend of Agriculture award will be presented to Rosemary “Rosie” Shader. These awards are given by the Wyoming County Farm Bureau and Cornell Cooperative Extension of Wyoming County. The Wyoming County Soil and Water Conservation District also presented the annual Conservation District Farm of the Year award to Deere Stone Farms, LLC; the Ronald P. Herman Partner of the year award to Matt Havens, Soil Scientist, USDA/NRCS; and the Agricultural Environmental Management award to Spencer Brothers Farms, LLC. The Wyoming County Chamber & Tourism office partners annually with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Wyoming County, the Wyoming County Soil and Water Conservation District, and members of the agriculture community including farms and agri-businesses. The sell-out event celebrates and recognizes the important impact of agriculture in Wyoming County. “The Pride of Agriculture dinner is a true celebration of our agriculture tradition in Wyoming County,” said Chamber & Tourism President Scott Gardner. “We were excited to be celebrate the fifteenth year of this event and are very fortunate to have a strong agricultural sector recognized as a leader in New York and the nation. Congratulations to all of the very deserving awardees. We all take great pride in their hard work that provides jobs and critical value to our local economy.” Special thanks to the following Gold Sponsors of the Wyoming County Pride of Agriculture Dinner: Allied Financial Partners; Atlas Ag Services, LLC; Attica Veterinary Associates, P.C.; Boulder Enterprises, LLC; Carolina Eastern-Crocker; Charcoal Corral; CSS Farms, LLC; Elitsac Inc.; Farm Credit East, ACA; Farm Family Insurance Company; Foote and Meyer, PLLC; Genesee Community College; Gibney Monument Works; J & S Castile Ag Services, Inc; M&T Bank; Ortel Supply Inc.; Perry Veterinary Clinic; PikeSide Ag Machinery, LLC; Reisdorf Brothers, Inc.; Tompkins Community Bank; Wick Construction LLC; WNY Medicare Advisors; Wyoming Co Soil & Water Conservation District. Submitted Photo The Creamery at Burley Berries and Blooms
T8 April 2024 WE NOW OFFER DUCT CLEANING SERVICES • Free Estimates On New Installations • Sewer & Drain Cleaning • Water Heaters • Water & Gas Repiping • Faucet Repair • Piping Leaks • Service Agreements • Duct Cleaning • Ductless AC • New Installs • Repairs • New Homes • Construction • Electrician & Carpenter • Cottages (opening & closing - winterization) Serving Genesee • Livingston & Wyoming Counties Residential & Commercial • Licensed & Insured • Well Pumps • Root Removal • Back Flow Testing • Boilers & Furnaces • Central Air Conditioning • Oil & Gass Burners • Water Treatment: Filtration & Softeners GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism Chamber & Tourism Annual Award Reception On Thursday evening, November 9, 2023, the Wyoming County Chamber & Tourism agency hosted the 2023 annual award reception sponsored by Prizm Document & Technology Solutions at Brooksholm Wedding Barn and Events Center in Wyoming, to honor the awardees of several outstanding business recognition categories. The event welcomed businesses and guests from across the county to share in networking and recognition of seven businesses and individuals that were selected based on criteria that included their contributions to the economic vitality and quality of life of Wyoming County; capital investments; business expansions; job growth and retention; community involvement; and their contributions that strengthen their particular business sector in Wyoming County. The Chamber if Commerce also awarded the Woman in Business Award for the first time this year. Honorees received an award plaque from the Chamber of Commerce and certificates of recognition from US Representative Claudia Tenney, Senator George Borrello, and Assemblyman David DiPietro. The awardees for 2023 included: Small Business of the Year – Ott’s Collision in Warsaw Large Business of the Year – Silver Lake Marine in Silver Springs Agri-Business of the Year – Burley Berries and Blooms and the Creamery in Warsaw Tourism Attraction of the Year – Dream Lake Campground in Warsaw Tourism Business of the Year – Three Falls Cider in Castile Most Promising New Business of the Year – Coca-Cola Barn Museum in Castile Woman in Business Award – Valerie Henrici, Yummies in Warsaw “We again thank everyone who sent in nominations from across the community, and congratulate all the winners for their many contributions to the quality of life and economic vitality of Wyoming County,” said Scott Gardner, President and CEO of the Wyoming County Chamber & Tourism office. “The award winners that we honored represent longevity and commitment to our communities and are some of the very best that Wyoming County has to offer. Thank you to everyone who attended and made the evening a special and memorable event.” The Wyoming County Chamber & Tourism is the leading membership organization for local and regional growth, advocacy, and connection for Wyoming County’s business community. The Chamber & Tourism’s mission is to serve the members and community; promote and grow the area’s economic and tourism assets; and work collaboratively to create an environment that leads to the success and economic prosperity of Wyoming County. The key programs and services of the organization are educational seminars; leadership development; business assistance and guidance; cost-saving opportunities; advocacy; recognition, networking, exposure and promotional opportunities. For more information or to become a member please call 585-786-0307 or visit the website at www.wycochamber.org.
GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism April 2024 T9 Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce 2023-2024 Board of Directors CHAIR: Norbert Fuest, Appletree HR & Safety Consultants VICE-CHAIR: Hans Kunze, Hans’ Bird Feeder & Greenhouse SECRETARY: Jessica Hibbard, SUNY GCC TREASURER: Nicole White, Freed Maxick CPA’s DIRECTORS: Michael Hardie, Tompkins Insurance Agencies Travis Sick, Tompkins Community Bank Tim Brick, Bricdale Farms/Pa’s Produce Brock Beckstrand, Upstate Door Hon. Becky Ryan, Supervisor of Warsaw, Wyoming County Jackie Swaby, Arts Council for Wyoming County Andrew Stang, PrizmTech Document & Technology Solutions Daniel J. Burling, Burling Aviation Services Mark Bennett, Five Star Bank Denise Coffey, Glen Iris Inn Heather Aldrich, Sunrise Courts, LLC Rachael Pfeffer, Koike Aronson, Inc. The 2024 Wyoming County Visitor Guide is Here! The Wyoming County Chamber & Tourism office is pleased to announce the release of the official 2024 Wyoming County Visitor Guide. This year’s guide features a cover photo by photographer R a c h e l M u r r a y , depicting the Genesee Arch B r i d g e and Upper Falls in Letchworth State Park. The cover shot is aimed at educating and inspiring visitors to “Explore Letchworth” and the many attractions, experiences and communities Wyoming County has to offer. The 2024 visitor’s adventure guide offers readers an engaging visual experience, while providing valuable travel and hospitality information to tourists and residents. The guide is also linked to the Wyoming County Tourism website GoWyCo. com featuring an interactive and fully mobile platform, an expanded Letchworth State Park information section, travel itineraries and trails, events calendar, maps and partner listings. “We are very excited about the 2024 visitor guide,” said Director of Tourism & Marketing Eric Szucs. “This comprehensive tourism marketing piece is engaging, informative, and depicts everything that makes Wyoming County and our region a tourism destination for visitors worldwide. The guide highlights our d i - v e r s e t our - i s m b usi - nesses and attrac - tions, including L etch - w o r t h S t a t e P a r k , which attracts a million visitors a year. The Visitor Guide also includes information on the Autism Nature Trail and the 100th Anniversary of New York State Parks. The guide also provides information on food, shopping, craft beverages, camping, golf and much more. This piece describes Wyoming County’s unique story, while educating and informing visitors. It is the official invitation to explore our beautiful natural landscape while experiencing unforgettable adventures.” “On behalf of the membership and Board of Directors, I would like to extend a special thanks to Eric Szucs for his hard work to deliver a great looking and valuable guide for the 2024 tourism season,” said Chamber CEO Scott Gardner. “I would also like to thank all the businesses and advertisers in the guide, Rachel Murray for sharing her artistic view for the cover photo, and to everyone who contributed great photos and experiences with our organization.” The Chamber & Tourism office printed over 70,000 copies for distribution this year, which will be handed out at trade and travel shows, and stocked at information centers and rest stops across New York, the Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada. Guides will also be available in Letchworth State Park, area attractions, government offices, restaurants and retail locations throughout Wyoming County. Visitor guides may be picked up at the Chamber office located at the Wyoming County Ag and Business Center, 36 Center Street in Warsaw. Area residents are encouraged to call, email or stop by the Chamber office to grab a copy. Guides can also be mailed free to interested parties nationally to learn more about Wyoming County. Area businesses who would like to have a supply of visitor guides at their location are also encouraged to contact the Chamber at (585) 786-0307 or [email protected]. The Wyoming County Chamber & Tourism is the leading membership organization for local and regional growth, advocacy, and connection for Wyoming County’s business community. The Chamber & Tourism’s mission is to serve the members and community; promote and grow the County’s economic and tourism assets as the official Tourism Promotion Agency; and work collaboratively to create an environment that leads to the success and economic prosperity of Wyoming County. For more information or to become a member please call 585-786-0307 or visit the website at www. wycochamber.org. 4154 East Main Street Road, Attica, NY 14011 5067 East Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020 Offi ce: (585) 708-4122 • Store: (585) 708-4139 BurlyBrothersButchery.com Burly Brothers Country Butchery FRESH, LOCALLY RAISED MEATS AT OUR FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FARM IN ATTICA, NY We offer full USDA processing! Voted Best Fresh Meat in the GLOW Region!
T10 April 2024 GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism Moment of Totality a Magical Experience By Eric Szucs Director of Tourism & Marketing Wyoming County Chamber and Tourism Like much of the country, I was extremely excited for the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse. While the weather wasn’t entirely cooperative, I was determined to make the very best of it and recognized it for what it was – a once-in-alifetime experience. During totality the world became dark, the spring peepers rang loud, and the surreal magic of the moment wowed friends & family of all ages. In a few places, the cloud cover relented just enough to showcase totality – and where I stood – a few brief peaks of the moon still shrouding 50-60% of the sun. No amount of planning or effort on anyone’s behalf could have changed the weather. For those of us in the tourism industry, there was plenty of time and effort invested leading up to the eclipse to ensure the eclipse was a special experience within our communities. Wyoming County Tourism launched www.DarkSkyWNY. com, we distributed 20,000 pair of free eclipse glasses through area schools and local libraries, we held regular meetings with businesses, we partnered with regional and national planners and had consistent communication with organizations like the Buffalo Astronomical Association. Our goal was simple: ensure our communities enjoy the eclipse safely and affordably. It would be impossible to thank everyone who spent countless hours planning, coordinating and participating – but we’d be remiss if we didn’t thank our amazing business community. They set up events, allowed us to celebrate together, fed us and served us locally-sourced drinks – and most importantly, warmly welcomed visitors from throughout the world. It’s been thrilling to hear stories about people who traveled across the U.S. to see the eclipse. I even had the honor of meeting someone who traveled from Germany! This underscores the importance of what tourism does – how valuable Mom & Pop Shops are, and why this region is a magnificent place to experience outdoor adventure and family fun. Troublesome clouds aside, I hope your 2024 Solar Eclipse experience was magical and fulfilling. General Contracting with Professional Service Commercial • Residential • Agricultural Excavation • Blacktop • Hydro-Seed 585.786.5880 Fax: 585.786.8269 17 East Buffalo Street, Warsaw, NY 14569 WARSAW, NY sales @edhulmeinc.com • www.edhulmeinc.com COMMERCIAL AGRICULTURAL RESIDENTIAL A family owned, 4th generation, locally owned business in operation for over 50 years.
GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism April 2024 T11 Proud Supporter of the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce Durable Medical Equipment • Ostomy Supplies Prescription Compounding • Home Medical Supplies & Equipment Hallmark Cards & Gifts MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED Your friendly neighborhood pharmacy, gift shop & more! 75 North Main St., Warsaw, NY 14569 Phone: 786-2330 / Fax: 786-2767 Mon.-Fri. 9am-9pm; Sat. 9am-4:30pm; Sun. 9am-1pm Trained Pharmacist J. Rutowski, R PH National Travel & Tourism Week (NTTW) is an annual celebration underscoring travel’s essential role in driving our nation’s economy, cultivating vibrant communities and forging connections. Established in 1983, NTTW has become a cherished tradition, celebrating the U.S. travel community and highlighting how travel stimulates economic growth, creates quality jobs, inspires new businesses and elevates the quality of life for Americans every day. How Can You Make A Difference? Tourism is one of New York State’s leading industries, and based recent data, tourists spend: • $79 billion dollars in New York State • $3.4 billion dollars in the Greater Niagara Region • $67 million dollars in Wyoming County Without tourism, each household in our region would have to pay over $660 more a year in taxes to make up the difference. You can make a difference and it’s easy to do. It starts with shopping locally! • Visit your local mom & pop shops • Dine out at your favorite area restaurant • Support events, festivals & other activities in your community • Plan adventures regionally – on less than a tank of gas you can have a unique experience at one of many amazing attractions in Western New York and the Finger Lakes Learn More! For information on Travel & Tourism Week, visit: www.ustravel.org To explore & support our diverse tourism community, visit: www.GoWyCo.com. Maple Weekends 2024 a Sweet Success This year we once again celebrated Maple Weekends in Wyoming County, March 16-17 & 23-24. Every year maple producers throughout the state welcome the public to savor their very best maple goodies. Wyoming County is especially unique, as we are the state leader in maple production, and annually offer upwards of 20 different participating locations. At each location visitors can purchase maple syrup products, experience demonstrations, take tours, try free samples and enjoy all-you-can-eat pancake breakfasts. If you missed Maple Weekends this year, don’t worry, maple products are available all year. Find a location near you by visiting www.MapleWeekend.com. Submitted Photos
T12 April 2024 www.perrymarketplace.com P.O. Box 58, Stafford, NY 14143 585-343-5449 www.williamkentinc.com GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism TURF EQUIPMENT, LLC PARTS • SALES • SERVICE We Service MOST Brands 1818 Linwood Road, Linwood, NY 585.584.3122 • www.linwoodturf.com New Artisan Event Coming to Perry The Perry Rotary Club (PRC) and Perry Fire Department (PFD) announce an exciting new Artisans event, the Silver Lake Sea Serpent Arts & Crafts Show to be held over Columbus Day weekend, Saturday October 12th and Sunday 13th, from 10 AM to 5 PM. The event will be held on the Perry Fire Department grounds at the north end of the Perry Village Park. Artisan booths will be located throughout the grounds which offer a beautiful, sheltered area for both visitors and artisans. The event will have several food vendors that have been selected for their quality and delicious food offerings, as well as local craft beers and ciders. Live music will be provided throughout the event by various local musicians and groups. Admission is only $5 for anyone 16 years of age and older, and there will be plenty of free parking very close to the event. No shuttles or buses will be required. PRC and PFD are two well known service organizations and all proceeds from the event will go directly back into the communities they serve. Perry Rotary Club celebrates its 100th birthday this year. They continue to implement projects that positively impact the local communities they serve, including direct monetary support to local school districts, student scholarships, enrichment grants and arts initiatives through the Arts Council for Wyoming County. Perry Fire Department provides critical support to the Perry Community through volunteers who are committed to serving and protecting their community. They provide life safety, incident containment, property safety, environment safety and public safety education. The Silver Lake Sea Serpent Arts & Crafts Show promises to deliver a fun experience that combines access to wonderful arts and crafts, fabulous food, craft beers and ciders, and talented local music groups. Put October 12th and 13th on your calendar to enjoy this new Artisans event in Perry, NY! Updates and additional information about the Silver Lake Sea Serpent Arts & Crafts Show will be communicated through various media throughout the next several months. Be sure to follow the Silver Lake Sea Serpent Arts and Crafts show on facebook or at the website slseaserpentshow.com. For more information or questions, please email [email protected] FB: Silver Lake Sea Serpent Arts & Crafts Show | Facebook Web: Silver Lake Sea Serpent Arts & Crafts Show (slseaserpentshow.com)
GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism April 2024 T13
T14 April 2024 GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism Check us out on the web @ salmonorthodontics.com Perry Office: 116 North Center St. Perry, NY 14530 585-237-2410 Batavia Office: 5A Batavia City Centre Batavia, NY 14020 585-344-0775 Dr. Marlin Salmon Celebrating A Century! This year, New York’s State Parks and Historic Sites is celebrating its Centennial, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the founding of the NYS parks and sites system. This system was built for e v e r y o n e , and continues to serve as an acknowledgment that public access to open space and recreational assets is a right, and not a privilege, afforded to all New Yorkers. This year will be an opportunity to reflect on the last 100 years, celebrate the vital legislation that spurred the expansion of the parks and sites’ network, and ignite conversation and action around p r e s e r v i n g New York State lands for the next generation. A vision 100 years ago to connect people to New York State’s most celebrated lands has since transformed into the state park system we know and love today – encompassing 360,000 acres of beaches, campgrounds, trails, golf courses, and much more. Over the last century, you’ve walked the trails, camped in the forests, organized summer cookouts, and swam in the lakes and pools. You’ve created memories and passed down traditions. You’ve helped forge the last 100 years of recreation and stewardship – and will help ignite 100 years ahead. Take the Centennial Challenge. As you head out on your next adventure to a NYS park or historic site, you’re invited you to take on the Centennial Challenge! Check out a list of 100 activities to give you a chance to get outdoors and discover NYS state parks, learn more about NYS history at historic sites, and to give back to preserve all our properties for the next generation. Complete 24 out of 100 activities, and win prizes! You do not need to complete them all. The goal is to complete 24, after which you’ll earn a commemorative Centennial prize, as well as an entry into a random drawing for one of 24 three-year Empire Passes and a Centennial swag bag! Visit https://parks. ny.gov/100 to learn more and take the challenge. Source: NYS Parks and Historic Sites
GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism April 2024 T15 1974-2024 The WCIDA Celebrates 50 Years of Service This year marks a milestone for the Wyoming County Industrial Development Agency (WCIDA) as it celebrates its 50th anniversary as the leader in economic development services and benefits for Wyoming County and its residents. The WCIDA was established by the Wyoming County Board of Supervisors, and ratified by the New York State Legislature on May 13, 1974. The founding Board of Directors was comprised of five notable Wyoming County residents who contributed to the agencies original mission. Those original board members included Charles Van Arsdale, Lewis Serventi, Hayden Rosier, Thomas Griffin, and Frederick Stevens. The WCIDA, is a public benefit corporation, chartered with an early mission designed to address a “high unemployment rate” in Wyoming County. The Wyoming Board of Supervisors believed that the creation of an industrial Development Agency, “would attract and encourage new industries to locate in our County for the purpose of creating more jobs… and that existing industries have asked for an Industrial Development Agency which would allow them to obtain low-interest loans for expansion.” “This is an exciting time for the Wyoming County IDA as we celebrate 50 years of positive work for Wyoming County,” said Mark Dadd, Chairman of the WCIDA Board. “I am honored to have been a part of the original work to create the agency as a vital tool for development, and am pleased to continue serving on the Board with a group of individuals who are dedicated to the best interests of our community.” Today, the WCIDA is governed by a seven-member volunteer Board of Directors who are appointed by the Wyoming County Board of Supervisors, with Executive Director & CEO, James Pierce, who manages daily operations and a staff of three employees. The agency’s current mission is to encourage and increase private investment that creates new job opportunities, retains and stabilizes the existing employment base, and generates added tax revenues through increased economic activity in Wyoming County. This new mission has allowed for greater ability and purpose in how the WCIDA serves the greater community. It does this by promoting comprehensive educational programs that will assist budding entrepreneurs in planning, launching, and maintaining new or expanded businesses. The WCIDA identifies and collaborates with appropriate new partners, creating new operating synergies and enhancing economic development within Wyoming County. The agency also designs and conducts research to seek new pathways to grow our local economy, setting priorities and developing action plans based on a combination of high potential for growth and the WCIDA strength as a facilitator for economic development. The WCIDA regularly works and coordinates with a variety of local, state and federal agencies on corporate financing and incentive programs, and monitors new and existing opportunities that could benefit local companies. In some instances, the WCIDA also acts as the official conduit for the funds. The Wyoming County Industrial Development Agency works alongside other county agencies and affiliates to act as the lead entity in providing economic development services. The WCIDA is able to provide specialized financing and incentive programs offered by local, regional, state and federal agencies. Some of the key incentives the WCIDA can offer include property tax relief from county, school and municipal taxes that result from an increased assessed value from new construction or an expansion; exemption of sales tax for non-production equipment, furnishing and construction materials; exemption from mortgage recording taxes, when a mortgage is required to finance a project; and industrial revenue bonds. “We are very fortunate to have an IDA that has strong foundations and a proven track record over its 50-year history,” said James Pierce, Executive Director of the WCIDA. “Our work is based on a team approach to growth and expansion in Wyoming County. The IDA Board and Staff work collaboratively with our partners to develop projects that enhance the quality of life and improve the economic future for our communities. Over the years, we have worked together to carefully and deliberately grow the economy, by investing in quality projects and people.” In just the past twenty years, WCIDA has leveraged projects that have invested more than $1.4 billion in Wyoming County business growth and development. These projects have included manufacturers, tourism businesses, agriculture projects including the recent Wyoming Transfer Station project in Gainesville; the expansion projects at Creative Food Ingredients in Perry, the growth of Beaver Hollow Conference Center and Resort in North Java, and development of various renewable energy projects throughout Wyoming County. Each of these success stories has created economic growth and expansion, greater ability for businesses to cut costs and bring products to market, and make our industries more competitive in the national and world economy. The WCIDA has successfully created a robust revolving loan program to assist new and existing businesses, and has also worked to recruit businesses to our rural communities, due to their lower operating costs and attractiveness of location and quality employees, improving the overall economy and creating good jobs for local residents. “I am pleased to extend my congratulations to the Wyoming County IDA as it celebrates 50 years of growth and advancement for the people of Wyoming County,” said Rebecca Ryan, Chair of the Wyoming County Board of Supervisors. “The diligence and hard work the staff has always and continues to demonstrate has assisted existing businesses grow while adding new quality projects for our county. I also applaud the efforts of all who have served as volunteers on the Board of Directors for the past decades. It is through the collaborative, tireless efforts of the staff, volunteers and businesses that we are able to celebrate this great milestone. Wyoming County is a better place to live, work and grow because of those efforts and those of all who play a role in our business community. We look forward to continued future successes from the IDA as we begin the next 50 years!” For more information and to learn more about the Wyoming County IDA, visit www. wycoida.org
T16 April 2024 GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism Submitted Photo Country Belle Farm Store, 6694 Abbott Road, Silver Springs, NY Submitted Photo The Creamery at Burley Berries and Blooms, 6335 Route 20A E, Warsaw, NY Submitted Photo Amy’s Frozen Yogurt Shop, 249 Main Street in Arcade, NY Submitted Photo Melonies Kustom Kreations, 7398 Route 98, in Arcade, NY Submitted Photo The Indian Bistro, 282 Main Street, Arcade NY Submitted Photo Warsaw Historical Society - Gates House Museum, 15 Perry Ave., Warsaw, NY
GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism April 2024 T17 Submitted Photo Mystic Pots Ceramics Studio, 34 Liberty Street, Arcade, NY Submitted Photo Pizanos Pizza, 425 N Main Street, in Warsaw, NY Submitted Photo Parkside Diner, 6240 State Route 19A, Castile NY Submitted Photo Spotlight Theater, 23 South Main Street, Warsaw NY Submitted Photo The Vintage Cow Farmers Market, 11105 NY-98, Attica NY Submitted Photo Sunshine Speech Therapy, 6 Main Street, Wyoming, NY
T18 April 2024 GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism A FULL SERVICE VETERINARY PRACTICE, CALL US TODAY! P: (585) 237-5550 PerryVet.com Contact us at 585-708-4331 or [email protected] to get more information! www.gatewayhomeattica.org Comfort Care Volunteer Opportunities: *Resident Care *Fundraising *Grounds Crew *Offi ce Help *Baking *Educate on Comfort Care No experience necessary, we will train you! We would love for you to join our Gateway Family and help provide comfort and support to those in their end-of-life journey. Develop Your Business Vision Do you have an innovative business idea? Have you always dreamed about starting your own business? If you answered YES then the Wyoming County Business Fast Track Program is here to help make your business dream a reality! The Wyoming County Business Fast Track Program, built on the Kauffman Foundation’s platform, offers an exciting hands-on business development, real-world educational experience that will help you start or grow your business and gain access to a network of resources. Participants develop and refine their business ideas throughout the program - moving from concept to reality in an interactive group setting. Classes are offered twice a year in the spring and fall. The first few classes are devoted to determining the viability and market potential of the entrepreneur’s business concept. The remaining classes help build the framework for a solid business plan. The classes, which are intentionally kept small in size, are facilitated by two local experienced entrepreneurs. The program is fast-paced and energizing, utilizing presentations, subject matter guest speakers, and in-class activities. Additional assistance is available for class graduates to help with financing options, identify business locations, new business resources, and other guidance. The fall class begins August 27, 2024 and runs for 10 weeks on Tuesday evenings from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Wyoming County Agriculture and Business Center located at 36 Center Street in Warsaw. Seats are limited and fill quickly. The Wyoming County Business Fast Track program is graciously sponsored by Tompkins Community Bank, Complete Payroll, Community Bank N.A., Robert D. Strassel Esq., Five Star Bank, Wyoming County Board of Supervisors, and the workforce development resources available to participants through Community Action for Wyoming County. To learn more or to register for the class visit wycoida.org or contact Jennifer Tyczka at the Wyoming County Business Center at (585) 786-3764 or email jtyczka@wycoida. org. Registration is now open and seats are limited.
GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism April 2024 T19 YOUR BAKED INGREDIENT SPECIALISTS 1.888.701.8888 • www.creativefoods.com WE'RE HIRING - JOIN OUR TEAM! Apply in person or online: 1 Lincoln Ave., Perry NY 14530
T20 April 2024 GO WYOMING: Chamber & Tourism