The Ulster County Development Corporation (UCDC) and the Chamber of Commerce of Ulster County (Chamber), as joint organizers of the annual Ulster County Business Recognition Awards, are once again honoring the Best of Ulster for individual and business leadership, as well as investments and contributions to the economic future of Ulster County and the Hudson Valley Region.

Ulster County has a long and proud tradition of entrepreneurship, innovation, and industriousness. The Best of Ulster awards are an opportunity to spotlight those who lead by doing and who often do not get the level of public recognition they deserve. It is these businesses that have distinguished themselves by making the most of a business opportunity and through their achievements continue to shape the community in which we live.

This year’s awards competition drew a wide range of nominations from all parts of Ulster County. With a well-qualified and diverse pool of candidates, the final selections made by a panel of UCDC and Chamber members were difficult. In the end, the best of the best of Ulster County businesses were determined to be:

Businessperson of the Year

MARK BRAUNSTEIN
Markertek, a division of Tower Products

As a successful entrepreneur, industry leader, and community supporter, Mark Braunstein stands out for his contribution to business and community-building commitments. Starting over twenty years ago in a one car garage, Mark has grown Saugerties based Markertek and Tower Products to an industry leader in specialized electronics for the new media and broadcasting industries employing over one hundred people. And through its philanthropic arm, the Markertek Fund, they provide funding for youth, educational, cultural and human enrichment programs, all of which improve the quality of life in Ulster County. Mark Braunstein and Markertek make a difference for the economy and residents of Ulster County.

Business of the Year

SONO-TEK CORPORATION

Headquartered in Milton, this thirty-year high-tech company has become the world’s leader in ultrasonic atomizing spray nozzle technology used in a variety of market applications that include: electronics, industrial coatings, nanotechnology, medical devices, and textiles. Sono-Tek’s achievements can be credited to a strong executive team lead by their president, Christopher Coccio, their business focus, strength of operations, and forward-looking global growth strategy.

Small Business of the Year

SKATE TIME 209

Early 2006 saw the birth of year-round family fun in Accord under the banner of Skate Time 209. Terry and Len Bernardo fulfilled their dream of establishing a business that serves the youth and families from Ulster County and around the Hudson Valley region. In addition to the center’s multi-attraction activities, which include a roller-skating floor, skateboard park, high-tech arcade, and lessons in hockey, skateboarding, and artistic and speed skating, this $2 million destination has become an economic asset for the community with the creation of forty-five jobs.

Cultural Business of the Year

SHADOWLAND THEATRE

The Shawdowland Theatre in Ellenville has been referred to as “Best Theatre in the Valley,” a “leading cultural organization in the Hudson Valley and Catskills” and a model for the “creative class economy” that is expanding here in Ulster County. Under the leadership of Brendan Burke, Shadowland is credited with many positive influences, such as quality programming and entertainment, acting and technical theater experience for area students, an economic boast to area businesses, and a centerpiece for revival for the Village.

Building Project of the Year

THE BIRCHES AT SAUGERTIES

The Birches at Saugerties offers a quality housing community as an option for Ulster County seniors and frail elderly. For those who wish to age-in-place, the 60-unit layout and design of the Birches offer special housing modifications to live a safe and independent lifestyle close to community services and amenities. Steven Aaron and Birchez Associates, as the development and management group for the project, have worked to fill an unmet need for high-quality homes for a growing population in Ulster County and for those who will relocate to be near family or friends.

Tourism Business of the Year

WOODSTOCK FILM FESTIVAL

As a regional film fest in the country, the Woodstock Film Festival is a marquee event in Ulster County. This October will mark the seventh year for the Festival, which continues to premiere exceptional independent films and attract filmmakers and celebrities from around the globe, while also sponsoring a year-round schedule of film, music and art-related activities. The Festival generates unique value and opportunities for economic development, tourism, education, entertainment, and cultivation of local talent and the film/video industry in Ulster County.

Colleagues, friends, and business associates are invited to join us on Thursday, October 19, 2006 at the Wiltwyck Golf Club for a dinner honoring the winners, at which time UCDC and the Chamber will formally present the awards.

The awards dinner is made possible through the generous support of these Corporate Sponsors:

GOLD SPONSORS CDPHP, Daily Freeman, and HITS Inc.

SILVER SPONSORS Rifton Equipment

BRONZE SPONSORS AVR Realty, Commercial Associates Realty, CRSR
Designs, Hodgson Russ LLP, John J. Lease Realtors, Keegan Ales, M&T Bank, New York Business Development Corporation, Rhinebeck Savings Bank, Rondout Savings Bank, Ryan Insurance, Se’lux Corporation, Ulster Savings Bank, TechCity, and Wilber National Bank

We hope that you can join us for this special event honoring the best of Ulster’s business community.