The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce and Fulton County Regional Chamber of Commerce and industry have partnered with Capital Region chambers to offer the exciting seminar, “Selling or Helping? Reduce Rejection Fears and Close More Sales”, with Patrick McGaughey.

This interactive and dynamic program will be held Monday, February 14 at the Crowne Plaza in Albany.  Networking and check-in begin at 8:30 a.m. and the program will run from  9:00 – 10:30 a.m.

Business consultant and national speaker Patrick McGaughey’s selling and marketing strategies will show participants how to better understand customers, identify profitable opportunities, and activate more sales.

We are all in sales whether we are making a delivery, providing service to a customer, closing a deal or running a company. But are we properly prepared when opportunity presents itself? You will laugh and learn a lot from Pat’s enthusiastic presentation on Sales and Service.

The seminar highlights: new attitudes and perspectives for effective salesmanship, build great chemistry with your buyers, how more rejection means more sales, and effective and efficient sales closing skills.

Pat will share his Top 3 proven communication skills and how to implement them, how to position yourself to close the sale, how Sales and Service work together, and how to stop selling and start helping people buy.

“This program is useful for businesses of all sizes and salespeople with all levels of experience,” states Montgomery County Chamber President, Deb Auspelmyer.  “Business owners and managers are looking for the competitive edge now more than ever.  This seminar is a tool that can assist while offering a unique networking opportunity with several Capital Region chamber business members.”

Patrick “Pat” McGaughey CPF, IOM brings 30 years of success and experience in broadcasting, business association management and medical administration that qualify him to serve as an outstanding business consultant.

Pat’s sales and service seminars have been well received across the country because the information is valid for any business and the sales representatives truly appreciate the opportunity to attend. The presentation affirms many of the skills sales people are currently using and always stimulate new and creative ideas people can actually implement in their sales programs.

“We have utilized Pat as a speaker in the past with much success,” states Fulton County Chamber President, Wally Hart.  “His dynamic presentation is engaging and we have heard positive feedback from the business community on his presentations. I encourage businesses to participate.”

Reservations for the event are $35 per person and can be made by calling the Montgomery County Chamber at 842-8200 or the Fulton County Chamber at 725-0641.

The program is sponsored by: Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce, Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce, Columbia County Chamber of Commerce, Fulton County Regional Chamber of Commerce, Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce, The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, The Chamber of Schenectady County, and The Chamber of Southern Saratoga County.

The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce would like to announce that HomeStead Funding Corp. will be holding a Grand Opening celebration and Ribbon Cutting of their new branch in Amsterdam located at 4812 State Highway 30.  The celebration will be held on Thursday, January 20, from 3pm – 6pm, with the ribbon cutting at 5pm.  Refreshments and hors d’oeuvres will be served.  Co-hosts of the event are Paul Hans, Branch Manager and Polly Slezak, Loan Originator who have 40 years combined experience in the mortgage business.  “I am very excited about the opening of this branch office and look forward to servicing the home mortgage needs of Montgomery County, Fulton County, and the surrounding areas,” states Paul Hans.

HomeStead Funding Corp.’s headquarters is located in Albany.  They are the largest independent mortgage bank in Upstate New York and one of the largest in the Northeast.  All loans close in their name and processing, underwriting and closings are done either at the local branch or the Albany office.  This is a major benefit.  Since they only use local appraisers and attorneys, all decisions regarding an application are done locally.

The Chamber encourages you to attend and welcome the opening of this new branch.  Call Membership Assistant, Andrea Brooks at 842-8200 to RSVP.

The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, Fulton County Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Fulton-Montgomery Community College are pleased to announce that Chancellor Nancy L. Zimpher will be giving a breakfast presentation at the College on Friday, January 7, 2011.  The Chancellor will discuss SUNY as an economic driver for New York’s Communities and will open the floor for questions and answers from attendees.   Chancellor Zimpher is the12th chancellor of SUNY, the largest comprehensive system of public higher education in the country. Zimpher is the first woman to be named chancellor in SUNY’s 60-year history.

Registration for this exciting program will begin at 7:30 am, with breakfast to follow at 8:00 am.  At 8:30 am, the Chancellor will begin speaking, addressing topics such as how SUNY and particularly, FMCC, are economic drivers for New York communities.  The cost for the breakfast is $20 per person and reservations are required.  Please call the Chamber at 842-8200 to reserve your seat.

The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the recipients of their prestigious Chamber Business Awards, which will be presented at their annual meeting and awards dinner on Friday, January 28, 2011. “This event is a wonderful way to recognize the business community and individuals who work hard to make Montgomery County successful,” states Chamber President, Deborah Auspelmyer. “It is an event that applauds our community’s efforts and installs our new board of directors.”

The Thomas B. Constantino Entrepreneurial Award, which pays tribute to a company that embodies the entrepreneurial spirit by organizing, managing, and assuming the risks of building a business and persevering to see these efforts come to fruition; will be presented to Charlene Brown of the Garden Bug.

Charlene Brown of The Garden Bug

The Garden Bug began almost 10 years ago with a few pumpkins and a one-room gift show with a dirt floor, no front door, or lights. They had a few fall bows, wreaths and decorations and were only open September and October. Over the years the Garden Bug has grown in many ways. They are now open April through December and January through March after many hours and years of hard work repairing and restoring the 100 year-old dairy barn in which they are located. It has grown to four rooms filled with country and primitive treasures including wallpaper, valences, candles, wreathes, furniture, pictures and much more. Many of the items are hand-crafted on site as well. Two greenhouses have been added to hold the many specialty potted flowers, hanging baskets, and annual plants including mums and pumpkins.

“I can truly say I love my job, from creating displays in the gift shop to planting flowers, fixing the old barn and greeting everyone at the Garden Bug,” states Charlene Brown, Proprietor. “I would like to thank all of my customers from out of town and nearby for supporting the Garden Bug and the Chamber for their support over the years in announcing upcoming events on their website, and letting us host an after hours mixer. I would not be successful without their help and support. Also a special thank you to my supporting family.”

Nominees also included Adirondack Fireplace Company, Joe Giardino, and Fariello’s.

The Herbert T. Singer Community Service Award, given to a person or persons who contribute to the betterment the community through their selfless dedication and service, will be presented to Dr. Benjamin Button.

Dr. Benjamin Button

Dr. Button has been an active member of the Inman Senior Center for 4 years and in that time has been an asset to the organization. For many years, Dr. Button was active in missionary work in Africa and Afghanistan. Although his specialty is orthopedics, he served as a general practitioner overseas and was recognized for his humanitarian and missionary work. He went on over 40 missions spanning 14 years, from 1990 until 2004, dedicated to helping those less fortunate and traveling to regions with little or no medical services. Dr. Button has been a friend to the Senior Center, currently serving on their Board of Directors and taking and active role in the finances and administration of the Center. He is a wonderful example to seniors and an invaluable adviser.

“I‘m honored to receive the Chamber’s Herbert T. Singer Community Service Award,” states Dr. Button. “It is a great honor to be associated with all the previous winners. I have been fortunate to serve the local community, by working in both St Mary’s and Amsterdam Memorial Hospital for 27 years, holding many positions and spending many nights working in the Emergency Room. After retiring in 1990 I had the opportunity to serve in Rwanda, during the massacres; in Sudan, during the Civil War; in Albania during the time of the refugees; and in Afghanistan during the War.”

Nominees included: Bob Fetterly and John Lesniewski.

The recipient of the Chamber’s Barbara V. Spraker Tourism Award given to an individual, event, business or attraction that has done an outstanding job the past year in bringing tourists to Montgomery County. The award is presented in honor of Barbara V. Spraker for her innumerable efforts in support of Montgomery County and tourism. This year’s award will be presented to Light Up the Sky with the Marching Rams.

Light Up the Sky with The AHS Marching Rams

Over the course of the event it is wonderful to see people who come from out of the area including Albany, Bronx, Brooklyn, Burnt Hills, Caroga Lake, Ohio, Clifton Park, Cooperstown, Florida, Gilboa, Maine, Massachusetts, New York City, Poughkeepsie, Rochester, Rotterdam, Schoharie, Speculator, Syracuse, Vermont, and Canada to see this temporary annual display. Vehicles from out of state have even commented that they make a pilgrimage each year to see what has been changed and added to the show. Visitors to Light Up the Sky use local gas stations, shopping areas and restaurants. Tourism is more than just sales tax dollars.

This event has been heightened by the sheer giving, willingness to work together and pleasure in the months it takes to prepare of the December event. The dozens of people it takes to pull this event off have become like family who know a goal and work towards it. The Marching Rams have established a holiday tradition in our city with a community of families that donated their time, effort and talents. You won’t see store bought displays but displays that were designed, cut, painted and hung by volunteers.

The band members that benefit from this event have become tourism ambassadors through the years highlighting the Amsterdam High School Marching Rams and Montgomery County in a positive light as they have participated in events nationwide such as Chicago’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Hollywood Bowl, The Peach Bowl and New York City’s St. Patrick’s Day parade. Additionally, many pounds of canned goods are collected for local food pantries and toys are collected for the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program though this event.

”We are honored to receive the Barbara V. Spraker Tourism Award,” states Linda Selbert, Chairwoman of the Event. “Light Up The Sky With The Marching Rams is a culmination of the efforts of hundreds of Marching Rams, Boosters and Alumni, who have given their time, dedication, love and hard work to create this joyous event for the community.  It has created tourism for Montgomery County for the past twelve years.

Nominees included: Amsterdam Castle and Elve’s Night Out

The recipient of the Edward L. Wilkinson Industry of the Year Award, which pays tribute to a business or industry that has made a positive contribution to the economic growth and well being of Montgomery County, is Richardson Brands.

Richardson Brands is known across America for the development of soft, tender, high quality pillow mints that have graced the dining tables of homes and restaurants since 1893.  Through the years, Richardson’s chocolate filled candy covered mints have become the preeminent ‘thank you’ used by thousands of fine dining establishments throughout the U.S.A. to show customers appreciation for their patronage. Through both organic growth and acquisition, Richardson Brands has expanded to offer a selection of fine, highly recognizable nostalgic favorites.   Gravymaster® Browning and Seasoning Sauce, Dryden & Palmer® Rock Candy, Beechies® Gum and Bogdon® Old Fashioned Candy Sticks® are included in their impressive portfolio.

All of Richardson’s brands carry a long heritage of quality and staying power:  Dryden & Palmer was introduced in 1880, Richardson Mints in 1893, Gravymaster in 1935, Beechies in 1936, and Bogdon in 1945. 2010 brought new flavors, line extensions and very contemporary usage for Richardson’s nostalgia brands. By early 2011, all of their brands will be produced at the company’s headquarters, in Canajoharie. An integral part of Richardson’s longer term vision is to become the pre-eminent employer in Canajoharie. Richardson is committed to expanding its operations in Canajoharie, and to work with local and state officials to restore the economic vitality of this community.  Richardson has plenty of room to grow in Canajoharie, where its 180,000 square foot facility proudly carries the State of New York’s coveted Good Manufacturing Practices Seal of Approval (GMP), as well as a superior rating, the highest awarded by AIB (American Institute of Baking) International.

Richardson Brands Company has made Canajoharie the center of its new product development unit, furthering the company’s goal to double in size in three to five years. The company has moved about 40 jobs to the area from a combination of positions at the company’s now-closed Branford, Conn. location and its Kansas City, Missouri plant, and plans to move 30 more from Kansas City in January.

Richardson Foods owns and manages the Richardson Brands of mint candy, Dryden and Palmer rock candy, Bogdon reception sticks and Beechies Gum, as well as Gravymaster cooking and grilling sauce.

“Richardson Brands is very proud to be selected to receive the Chamber’s Edward L. Wilkinson Industry of the Year Award, thereby joining an illustrious group of companies that have played a key role in the economy and life of Montgomery County,” said Richardson CEO Don Butte. “Richardson has relied on skilled and dedicated employees–often generations of many families–to manufacture high quality candy and other food products that are enjoyed in homes and restaurants in the U.S.A. and internationally since 1893.  Through the years, Richardson’s chocolate filled candy covered mints have become the preeminent ‘thank you’ used by thousands of fine dining establishments to show customers appreciation for their patronage.”

“Richardson’s presence in Montgomery County is steadily growing as we consolidate all of our businesses in our Canajoharie Plant, including Gravy Master, Dryden & Palmer Rock Candy and Bogdon’s Candy,” continued Mr. Butte. “This growth underscores our commitment to Montgomery County and is consistent with the spirit of the Chamber’s Edward L. Wilkinson Industry of the Year Award.”

Nominees also included: Betz, Rossi, Bellinger and Stewart Family Funeral Homes, Inc., Hannaford Brothers, and Helmont Mills.

The Chamber’s Agricultural Award will be presented to Karen’s Produce. It was April of the year 2001 when Stephen and Karen Terleckey came to their children with an opportunity to purchase a farm stand formally known as the Dufel Scho-Mo Farm. From that point on, hard work, determination, family bonds and dedicated customers have created what is now known as Karen’s Produce and Ice Cream.

Karen's Produce

Today Karen’s Produce and Ice Cream serves a variety of homemade foods as well as hard and soft ice cream. On the 100 acres of land bordering the Schoharie Creek and the Mohawk River, many fruits and vegetables are harvested which are then sold at the main stand and Farmers Markets throughout Montgomery, Fulton and Schenectady Counties.

This truly is a family run business. Whether visiting the main site of any one of the Farmers Market, you will be sure to see a member of the Terleckey family. And, if anyone wonders where the name Karen’s Produce comes from, it is derived the person who always keeps it all together, their mother, Karen Terleckey.

“On behalf of the Terleckey Family, we are honored to be chosen for the Chamber’s Agricultural Award,” state the Terleckey’s.

Nominees included: Herba’s Acres Tree Farm, Hummingbird Hills Winery, and Natural Bridge Farm.

The Young Professional Award, which recognizes young professionals whose commitment, enthusiasm, and positive energy contribute to the betterment of Montgomery County, will be presented to Julie Pierce, Community Benefits and Outreach Manager at St. Mary’s Hospital.

Julie Pierce

Most recently, Julie extended her role of providing a wide range of health-related educational programs to include the critical job of identifying unmet community needs and assisting the hospital in assessing the options and possibilities for needed services. For years, Julie has handled her responsibilities with a positive attitude; her passion for the vulnerable and her community spirit are a perfect fit for St. Mary’s Hospital. If you ask anyone about Julie’s work – perhaps some agency with whom she has collaborated on a healthcare seminar, or a member of one of the St. Mary’s support groups, or an associate who has been fortunate enough to have Julie as a leadership training facilitator – you will hear about a woman who shares her knowledge, her compassion and her enthusiasm for making our community a better place to live.

Julie holds a Bachelors of Arts degree from Oswego State University, a Masters of Science degree from the State University of New York at Albany and has completed additional post-graduate work from the College of St. Rose. She is a graduate of the 2007 Fulton-Montgomery Leadership Academy, a member of The Chamber’s Young Professional Committee, TILT, a former member of the Chamber’s Board of Directors (2008 and 2009) and a fitness instructor at Alpin Haus. Julie serves as Second Ward Alderwoman for the City of Amsterdam where she chairs both the Shared Services and Personnel Committees. She is also the proud mother of a daughter, Emma, who Julie boasts is her greatest accomplishment and inspiration in life.

“I am grateful to be recognized as “Young Professional of the Year,” states Ms. Pierce. “It is an honor and a privilege to work for St. Mary’s Hospital and to have the opportunity to serve both personally and professionally towards the betterment of our community”.

Nominees for this award included: Jennifer Moyer, Peter Rose, Crystal Ricciuti, and Bethany Schumann-McGhee.

Additionally, the Workforce Development Board, representing Montgomery County, will present their Business Partner of the Year Award to River Ridge Living Center, LLC. River Ridge Living Center, LLC is a Skilled Nursing Facility that specializes in long and short term, inpatient and outpatient skilled nursing. River Ridge Living Center, LLC is located in a quiet and picturesque residential neighborhood in Amsterdam, New York. Owned and operated by Susanne and Paul Guttenberg, River Ridge Living Center, LLC is a warm and inviting place. The staff is dedicated to enhancing the lives of their residents. River Ridge Living Center has been utilizing the Workforce Solutions Center’s services to find their next employees. They post their open positions with the Central Job Bank and have recently had a success in utilizing the monthly newsletter to obtain qualified candidates for employment. They are presently taking advantage of Customized Training Program incentives to cut the cost of training and further development of their employees’ knowledge.

RiverRidge continues to strive to be consistent in their efforts to hire and train new workers and maintain a stable work environment for their employees. They have been taking advantage of Customized Training Program incentives to cut the cost of training and further enhance their employees’ knowledge. They strive to ensure that their staff is well trained in all aspects of their job so that they provide top quality care to their residents.

Join The Chamber in honoring these recipients, Friday, January 28, at The RiverStone Manor, a Chamber Member since 2004. The is the largest networking event of The Chamber with an annual attendance of over 300 people. Sponsors to date include Liberty, Rose & Kiernan, and Quandt’s Foodservice Distributors.

For more information about the dinner, place an ad in the program booklet, or to make a reservation, please call The Chamber at 842-8200.

The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their Annual Holiday Business Mixer, December 9, 2010 at the GFWC Century Club’s Festival of Trees located at 130 Guy Park Ave, Amsterdam from 5-7pm. The mixer, sponsored by Bouchey & Clarke Benefits, Inc. and the GFWC Century Club, will be filled with an evening of holiday magic, as guests will be able to enjoy the beautifully decorated trees and wreaths, which will be on display and available for purchase.

Hors d’ oeuvres, catered by Crystal Ristorante, and refreshments will be offered, as well as the chance to offer your holiday wishes to fellow Chamber and community members. “Enjoy socializing and networking, while getting into the holiday spirit with an enchanting evening at the Festival of Trees” states Membership Assistant, Andrea Brooks.

To make reservations for this event, please contact The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce at 842-8200 ext. 10 or email membership@montgomerycountyny.com.

The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominees for their business awards, which will be presented at their Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner, with a general attendance of over 300 people. The awards recognize individuals and businesses in the community for the contributions they have made to the area. “There are many businesses and individuals in Montgomery County who deserve recognition for their contributions and accomplishments, and their efforts and influence in our communities,” states Charles Schwartz, Chairman of The Chamber’s Board of Directors. “The Chamber is pleased to be able to recognize them and their contributions at this well-attended event. It is always an honor to be recognized by peers and colleagues, this event does that in honor of many of our area’s distinguished leaders.”

Categories for nominations include:

The Thomas B. Constantino Entrepreneurial Award, pays tribute to a company that embodies the entrepreneurial spirit by organizing, managing, and assuming the risks of building a business and persevering to see these efforts come t fruition. This award was established in memory of Thomas B. Constantino, founder of The Noteworthy Company. Some of the previous recipients include: Betz Funeral Home, Iroquois Lanes, Central National Bank, Tammy Peters & Associates, Alpin Haus, MY Bank, Hand Ups n Downs, Advanced Generator Technologies, Tailwind Associates, Sunset Refuse Service, and Allen’s 19^th Century General Store, Damiano’s Flowers and Gifts, Century 21 Purtell Realty, Geo-Environmental Solutions, italyMONDO, Vern’s Autobody, and June’s Hallmark.

The Herbert T. Singer Community Service Award was first presented to Herbert T. Singer of Amsterdam Printing & Litho, and is given to a person or persons who contribute to the betterment the community through their selfless dedication and service. Previous recipients are: Herbert Singer, Joan Pipito, Del Salmon, Violet Fallone, Mr. And Mrs. Carl Schmidt, Barbara Spraker, Ladan Munoz, Jeff Weber, Carol Constantino, Elaine Ko, Peter Capobianco, Doug Nadler, Virginia Whelly, Dr. Michael Sheridan, Donald Levy, Dr. Alexander Zimmerman, Joel G. Kaplan, Betty Clough, John J. Daly, Bob Cudmore, and Tony Centi. The community is invited to submit nominations of volunteers and non-management staff as well.

The Edward L. Wilkinson Industry of the Year Award pays tribute to a business or industry that has made a positive contribution to the economic growth and well being of Montgomery County. This award is in memory of Edward L. Wilkinson, a prominent Amsterdam attorney and economic development leader. Some of the previous recipients include The Recorder, The Noteworthy Company, Kasson-Keller Keymark, Amsterdam Memorial Hospital, St. Mary’s Hospital, Liberty Enterprises, FMCC, Amsterdam Printing, Longview Fibre, Beech-Nut, Ward Products, Cranesville Properties, Quandt’s Foodservice Distributors, Bill Lake Home Construction Corp, Fucillo Auto Plaza, Alpin Haus, and Hill & Markes, Brown Transportation, Community Health Center, WW Custom Clad, PCT and Target Distribution Center.

The Young Professional Award recognizes a young professional under 40 within our county whose commitment, enthusiasm, and positive energy have contributed to the betterment of Montgomery County. Previous recipients include: Rachel Staroba, MCAP; Sheila Wood, Reality Check; Thomas Pasquarelli, Jr., G.A.V.A.C.; Nancy Rogers, First Niagara Bank; Michael Yevoli, Montgomery County Industrial Development Agency; Brennen Parker, Rose & Kiernan; and Rachel Zimolka, Sunmark Federal Credit Union, Sean Piasecki, Eastern Medical Supply, and Ken Rose, Montgomery County Economic Development.

The Agricultural Business of the Year Award pays tribute to an agricultural or agricultural related business or event that has made a positive contribution to the economic growth and well-being of Montgomery County. Recipients include Palatine Valley Dairy, Cornell Cooperative Extension, and Sundae on the Farm.

The Chamber will also be presenting their annual Barbara V. Spraker Tourism Award at this event. This award is given in honor of Barbara V. Spraker for her innumerable efforts in support of Montgomery County and tourism. Previous recipients include: Old Fort Johnson, Fonda Fair, Arkell Museum, Holding Down the Fort, and Fonda Speedway. Events, festivals, attractions, individuals, agencies and organizations involved in the tourism industry can be nominated.

“The Chamber recognizes the significance of tourism in our county and changed the presentation of this award to coincide with our annual meeting and awards dinner to highlight its significance,”

continues Schwartz. “I encourage residents and businesses to make nominations for this and each of the awards. Think of businesses and people that stand out within the community and send in your nomination. It’s a very easy process.”

Nomination forms can be downloaded from the Chamber’s website at www.montgomerycountyny.com on the lower left hand corner of the homepage under “forms and applications”. Nomination forms can be mailed or faxed, deadline for submission is December 3.

Sponsors of this event to date include Rose and Kiernan Inc., and Quandt’s Foodservice. Sponsorships are still available. For more information about the awards please call The Chamber at 842-8200.

The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce that they will be holding the “Grape Escape” wine sampling and raffle Thursday, November 4, from 6 – 9 pm, in the newly renovated banquet room of the America’s Best Value Inn, 10 Market Street, Amsterdam.

The networking event will feature a variety of wines and a raffle of products that are available locally just in time for holiday entertaining and gift-giving. Some of the raffle items include a set of Samsonite luggage, $100 gift certificate to Egelston Oil, massage certificate to Don Diehl, LMT, facial gift certificate to Sherry Wieszchowski, L.E., White Cottage Gardens gift certificate, Gift Basket from June’s Hallmark, Seely Conover gift certificate, Coffee Beanery Gift Basket, and much, much more!

The event will also feature the local band, MedRock, a group of talented healthcare professionals that donate their time to assist organizations with their fundraising efforts. Band members include: Peter Capobianco, Property Manager for Cranesville Properties; Vic Giulianelli, CEO of St. Mary’s Hospital; Dr. Sean Ryan; Dr. Bill Mayer; and Dr. Noy Militar. “MedRock has been a big attraction of this event since its inception,” states Chamber Board Chairman, Charles Schwartz. “We are fortunate to have such a talented group of professionals in the area that enjoy entertaining and assisting our non-profit agencies.”

The America’s Best Value Inn has undergone significant renovations since changing ownership and The Chamber is excited to be able to showcase these changes through this event. “This will be the first event held in the brand-new banquet facility that was once where the swimming pool was located,” states Chamber President, Deborah Auspelmyer. “We have met several times with Tibu Chacko, the manager of the new restaurant, Monsoon, and he is very excited to be able to show the public the magnificent transformation which includes a new stage as well.”

Tickets for the event, sponsored by Alpin Haus and Quality Express Printing, are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. “I encourage anyone interested in attending this fun networking event to get their tickets soon, there is a limited number available,” adds Auspelmyer. Attendees will enjoy hors d’ oeuvres, entertainment, and wine samplings including: Chocovine Vineyards, Plungerhead, Leese-Fitch, Concannon, Chateau St. Michelle, Jacobs Creek, Cupcake, Bully Hill, Sterling Vintner’s Collection, Barefoot, Polka Dot, Little Black Dress & More! A cash bar will also be available through Cooper’s Pub.

Tickets are available at the Chamber’s office, 1166 Riverfront Center, Amsterdam. Call 842-8200 for more information.

The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce will be holding a ribbon cutting ceremony for Hummingbird Hills Winery, 1442 Burtonville Rd., Fultonville, Friday, October 29, 5 – 6 pm. Business members are invited to celebrate the ribbon cutting of the opening of this new business.

“We are thrilled to be able to celebrate the opening of a winery in Montgomery County!” states Chamber President, Deborah Auspelmyer. “To be able to cut a ribbon for such a unique agricultural-related business is truly a celebration. We receive several inquiries at the Chamber regarding local wineries and are eager to promote the newest addition to the Montgomery County business community!”

Chamber members and their employees are invited to celebrate the opening of Hummingbird Hills Winery. Enjoy hors d’ouevres while sampling their delicious wine. Attendees will also receive a free corkscrew with any wine purchase. Reservations are required, call the Chamber at 842-8200. The chamber encourages you to visit their website at www.montgomerycountyny.com for more information on this and other businesses in Montgomery County.

The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce they will be holding a “Meet the Candidates” breakfast on Wednesday, October 27, 7:30 am at Crystal Ristorante, Lyon Street, Amsterdam.

Invited to participate are Gubernatorial candidates Attorney General Andrew Cuomo and Carl Paladino; Congressional candidates Congressman Paul Tonko and opponent Ted Danz; Senate candidates Senator Hugh Farley and opponent Susan Savage; and Assembly candidates Assemblyman George Amedore and opponent Angelo Santabarbara.

Participants confirmed to date include: Senator Hugh T. Farley, Susan Savage, Assemblyman George Amedore, Angelo Santabarbara, and Ted Danz.

“I encourage the business community to take advantage of this opportunity to hear from candidates for the upcoming election,” states Chamber President, Deborah Auspelmyer. “Businesses need to become engaged in the process now more than ever.”

Registration, networking and a continental breakfast will be provided from 7:30 – 8:00 am. The program will begin at 8:00 am. Candidates will each have the opportunity to answer questions from a moderator, questions from the audience will be accepted if time permits. Reservations are $10 for chamber members; $15 for the general public. Reservations are required. Call the Chamber at 842-8200.

The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce has invited Susan R. Marks-Jensky, Stakeholder Liaison for Upstate NY for the IRS, to give a presentation on the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit in the Affordable Health Care Act, and the Hiring Incentive for Restoring Employment (H.I.R.E.) Act.

Find out if you are eligible for this credit, how it could impact your business, what are the restrictions, and what steps need to be taken to receive the credit.

Under the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act, two new tax benefits are available to employers who hire certain previously unemployed workers (“qualified employees”). Find out more about this initiative as well.

“The Chamber is pleased to offer an opportunity to hear from an expert on these new credits,” states Chamber President, Deborah Auspelmyer. “Small business owners often don’t have the human resource staff or time to easily find out about opportunities that might help their business. This seminar is an opportunity for them to do so and is one of the many benefits of being a chamber member.”

The seminar is complimentary for Chamber members and is limited to 20 people. It will be held on Thursday, October 21, 9:00 am in the Chamber’s Conference Room, 1166 Riverfront Center, Amsterdam. Call 842-8200 to make your reservation.