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November 6, 2009
EWILLOW.COM MAY JUST BE THE SHOT IN THE ARM THE HANDCRAFTED GIFT INDUSTRY NEEDS THIS HOLDAY SEASON
JUPITER, FL- It is no secret that the Internet is quickly becoming a predominant method of purchasing gifts. Consumers are increasingly taking advantage of the convenience Internet shopping provides. However, most of these gifts are purchased from large chain retailers, and are often lacking a certain "personal touch."
For example, have you always wanted a customized scrapbook for that Hawaii trip you took for your second honeymoon, or for your daughter's wedding, but just don't have the time or know-how to make it yourself? Or, do you have a niece who just loves items decorated with butterflies, or a nephew that is crazy about dinosaurs? Shoppers now have a new Internet site, eWillow.com, to turn to where all the gifts are handmade and offer that all-important personal touch. Your gift recipient will immediately know that the item was selected just for them. This may be the time to think outside of that large retailer "big box."
One visit to recently launched eWillow.com will certainly impress you with not only the quality of papercrafted items that are for sale, but for their true one-of-a-kind artistic value as well. Available are handcrafted items from talented artists across the country, conveniently collected on one Internet site, where you can select from items like you will never see in mass retail outlets. Men and women of all ages come to eWillow.com to buy unique gifts for the special people in their lives.
eWillow.com already houses more than 45 papercrafting storefronts, and that number is growing everyday. These stores are not large corporations, rather individual papercraft enthusiasts/artists who love to share their talents and passion with others. Potential buyers can visit their favorite storefronts, shop by occasion/holiday, or shop for a specific type of item via a convenient search tool built into eWillow's dynamic site. The products and gifts available on eWillow.com change with the seasons allowing customers to infuse handmade quality gifts and cards into every occasion.
"Not only does eWillow.com provide a unified, convenient resource for papercrafters to share and communicate with one another, it also provides consumers with unique access to a wide variety of handcrafted items that are very affordable," said founder/CEO Charlene Harreveld.
"Storefront artists are simply charged one low monthly fee, with no posting or transaction fees, because we wanted them to be able to share their handcrafted, unique products with the world in an affordable way."
eWillow.com is headquartered in Jupiter, Florida. Visit www.eWillow.com, or contact Charlene Harreveld directly at info@ewillow.com.
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October 27, 2009
COMPLEXIONS SPA EARNS FIRST PLACE DISTINCTION AS
2009 BEST OF THE BEST SALON/SPA OF THE YEAR
ALBANY, N.Y.- Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness will be featured in the upcoming November 2009 issue of The Industry Source Magazine. Complexions Spa was awarded first place distinction and named 2009 Best of the Best Salon/Spa of the Year.
The Industry Source Magazine is a trade publication for small-business owners and entrepreneurs in the beauty industry. Winners of this Best of the Best Salon/Spa of the Year national competition were selected based on categories of image (branding), design and decor, customer service, employee education, service menus, and business goals.
"This is a national award and understandably the competition was intense; receiving this first place distinction is indeed an honor for us", said Denise Dubois, owner, Complexions Spa. "The entire staff at Complexions played a pivotal role in obtaining this award and I am extremely proud of our first-rate professional team here."
"We congratulate Complexions Spa in earning this distinction," says Aimee Gurski, editor of The Industry Source. "They are truly exemplary in all aspects of their business."
To learn more about Complexions including their menu of spa services and other awards, and to tour the facility online, visit www.complexions.com.
About Complexions:
Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness is the nations first gold-level LEED certified new construction spa. It specializes in using natural and organic ingredients, unique recipes, and the finest procedures and therapies, performed by the best trained and certified technicians. Complexions provides a full range of spa, skin care and hair services for both men and women. The spa works in conjunction with area plastic surgeons and dermatologists to develop healing treatments and post-operative recovery methods. Complexions is located at 221 Wolf Road in Albany, and is a winner of several national and international awards for its service, design and philosophy on healthy lifestyles.
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October 9, 2009
THE HOUSEWIVES OF NEW YORK & NEW JERSEY TO VISIT COMPLEXIONS SPA FOR SOME PAMPERING PRIOR TO PALACE EVENT
ALBANY, NY- Complexions Spa for Beauty & Wellness in Albany, NY, is sponsoring "Dishing the Dirt with the Divas of the Housewives of New York & New Jersey" at the Palace Theater on Friday, October 9, at 8:00 p.m. Prior to the Palace event the four housewives (Alex McCord and Ramona Singer of the New York cast, and Teresa Giudice and Caroline Manzo from the New Jersey cast) will enjoy an afternoon of first-rate pampering and relaxation, Albany-style, with luxurious spa treatments at Complexions Spa on Wolf Road in Albany.
"We are thrilled that the "Divas" cast will be visiting our spa during their visit to Albany," said Denise Dubois, owner, Complexions Spa. "We believe every woman could use some tranquility in her life, and you certainly do not need to be a TV reality show star to enjoy our full array of affordable services. As the housewives will find out, we bring the 'star treatment' to you right here on Wolf Road."
And there's more fun to be had, follow Complexions Spa on Facebook for twice daily trivia questions running until October 8. All correct trivia answers will have the opportunity to win tickets to the show, $20 gift certificates to The Hollywood Brown Derby and spa give-aways. The Grand Prize winner will receive a spa package for two valued at $300, dinner for two at The Hollywood Brown Derby and four tickets to the Divas October 9, show.
During their show at the Palace, the housewives will bring the TV drama right to you. The divas will be live on stage with a moderator discussing behind the scenes gossip, dishing some never heard before behind-the-scenes details, and much more. Additionally, audience members will also have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to ask the divas whatever they want during a live Q&A session.
About Complexions:
Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness is the nation's first gold-level LEED certified new construction spa. It specializes in using natural and organic ingredients, unique recipes, and the finest procedures and therapies, performed by the best trained and certified technicians. Complexions provides a full range of spa, skin care and hair services for both men and women. The spa works in conjunction with area plastic surgeons and dermatologists to develop healing treatments and post-operative recovery methods. Complexions is located at 221 Wolf Road in Albany, and is a winner of several national and international awards for its service, design and philosophy on healthy lifestyles.
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October 2, 2009
UNIQUE PAPERCRAFTING E-COMMERCE SITE LAUNCHES
JUPITER, FL- In this electronic age of instant messaging and e-cards, you may just be surprised that the sheer beauty and joy of creating and giving a unique handmade greeting card or scrapbook is not a thing of the past. In fact, with the help of a new e-commerce site, eWillow.com, the art of papercrafting might just experience a resurgence. eWillow.com is dedicated to selling handmade greeting cards, scrapbooks, and other papercrafts and has arrived just in time for World Card Making Day on October 3rd.
eWillow.com was the brainchild of former fashion industry model Charlene Harreveld. Charlene, a longtime crafter herself, began conceptualizing the site after becoming frustrated with the fact that there were limited outlets for crafters to sell their artwork, and seemingly none dedicated to those who make greeting cards and scrapbooks.
eWillow.com is unique not only because it brings the papercrafting community together in one convenient online location, but also because it is an e-commerce site where crafters can sell their papercrafted artwork like handmade cards, gifts, and scrapbooks via storefronts they create and maintain on eWillow's site. There is one low monthly storefront fee and no sales commissions or posting/transaction fees are charged. The site is effortless to use for both crafters and customers looking to purchase unique handmade papercrafted products as gifts that provide that all-important 'personal touch.' The site also offers a useful search tool where consumers can search all storefronts at once when looking for a specific item.
Additionally, eWillow.com also encourages sellers and buyers to communicate with each other and share ideas, tips, inspirations, and more. Designers can swap ideas and post photos of creations through an online forum. Also, Charlene's blog is for everyone to read and enjoy. eWillow.com can also be followed on Twitter and Facebook, both of which are updated regularly.
"I truly feel that the concept of this e-commerce site time has come. It was much needed for people in the papercrafting industry to be able to turn their passion and hobby into a money-making business endeavor with very little overhead and limitless selling potential," said founder/CEO Charlene Harreveld.
eWillow.com's storefront Design Vendors seem to agree. "I was honored to be one of the first storefronts on eWillow.com. I appreciate the fact that there's no other place on the Internet where papercrafters can sell their wares that is strictly for papercrafting. It is very evident a lot of careful and thoughtful planning went into the launch of eWillow. Thank you Charlene for coming up with this ingenious idea," said Cindy Coutts, owner of Christian Paper Crafts, Paducah, Kentucky.
eWillow.com is headquartered in Jupiter, Florida. Visit www.eWillow.com, or contact Charlene Harreveld directly at info@ewillow.com. Photos available upon request.
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August 20, 2009
JOCKEYS OFF THE TRACK AND INTO THE SPA
ALBANY, N.Y. - With thoroughbred horse racing season in full swing at Saratoga Race Course, two well known jockeys took some time out to decompress from the stresses of the track. Legendary, Hall of Fame, jockey Jose Santos along with restaurant owner and jockey, Filiberto Leon visited Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness in Albany. Santos is one of the most successful jockeys to ever mount a horse. Ranking 11th all time with more than 4,000 wins, Mr. Santos has earned many prestigious awards including an ESPN ESPY. The retired jockey and Mr. Leon relaxed with a steam shower, hot shave, massage, hair cut and men's manicure from Complexions' Barber Spa for men. "Spa treatments should not be an occasional indulgence, but a necessity to improve overall health and wellness," said Leon.
Athletes such as jockeys are not alone when it comes to visiting the spa. Men represent about a quarter of American spa-goers. This number continues to grow each year as American men become more aware of the health and relaxation benefits spas provide. Stress at work, whether it is in the office or on horseback, is yet another reason men visit. " The spa is no longer just a place of luxury for women, both genders are visiting the spa for a complete mind and body experience," said Denise Dubois, owner of Complexions Spa.
The Barber Spa at Complexions caters to men's needs with services including hot shaves, facial treatments, manicures, pedicures, and hair coloring. Additionally, the Barber Spa offers a shaving school service in which the customer is taught techniques for proper shaving and then given a shaving kit for continued use at home. All of the services are provided by trained experts who understand how to keep mens hair and skin both healthy and refreshed. Visit Complexions' website for more information on Complexions' services and treatments, or call 518-935-2819.
About Complexions:
Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness is the nation's first gold-level LEED certified new construction spa. It specializes in using natural and organic ingredients, unique recipes, and the finest procedures and therapies, performed by the best trained and certified technicians. Complexions Spa provides a full range of spa, skin care and hair services for both men and women. The spa works in conjunction with area plastic surgeons and dermatologists to develop healing treatments and post-operative recovery methods. Complexions is located at 221 Wolf Road in Albany, and is a winner of several national and international awards for its service, design and philosophy on healthy lifestyles.
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August 4, 2009
COMPLEXIONS SPA BOOKS APPOINTMENTS THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA SITE
ALBANY, N.Y.- Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness in Albany has found another use for the popular social media site Twitter. With just a brief message or "tweet" Complexions' staff can quickly alert clients of available openings for spa treatments and services. Customers then respond with their request. Twitter is also used by Complexions to notify clients of special spa promotions. "This is yet another way for us to build a personal connection with our clientele by keeping them informed," says Complexions owner Denise Dubois. "Since we started using Twitter, we've seen a spike in filling appointments that might otherwise be open due to cancellations."
Additionally, Complexions has a following of nearly 200 Facebook "fans" (www.facebook.com/pages/Complexions-Spa/47866354319). The spa uses Facebook to announce promotions, new products and services as well to publicize positive customer experiences. We've been using this tool for quite some time now and are continually growing our fan base," says Dubois. "It's a great feeling to know that our clients truly appreciate the experience we provide them at Complexions." Denise also has her own blog, www.complexions.com/blog. To learn more about Complexions' services and treatments, visit Complexions' Website, or call 518-935-2819.
About Complexions:
Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness is the nations first gold-level LEED certified new construction spa. It specializes in using natural and organic ingredients, unique recipes, and the finest procedures and therapies, performed by the best trained and certified technicians. Complexions provides a full range of spa, skin care and hair services for both men and women. The spa works in conjunction with area plastic surgeons and dermatologists to develop healing treatments and post-operative recovery methods. Complexions is located at 221 Wolf Road in Albany, and is a winner of several national and international awards for its service, design and philosophy on healthy lifestyles.
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July 22, 2009
LOCAL CATERER EXPANDS TO NEW LOCATIONS, CONTINUES TO GROW
COLONIE, N.Y. - Classe Catering, a 15-year-old catering company in Colonie, New York, is continuing to expand on the success of the 11 North Pearl Event Centre opening. The company has recently signed deals to operate as an exclusive caterer with Niska Isle, a private family home in Niskayuna, New York, as well as the Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs, New York.
Classe Catering specializes in creating one-of-a-kind events, which includes not only catering, but also event design and coordination, world-class service and complete rental amenities. In a market that is saturated with catering companies and banquet halls, Classe Catering differentiates itself by maintaining a unique business model that incorporates all aspects of event planning and management into one company that handles these matters completely. Classe Catering also offers options for small, private affairs and corporate catering for daily meal needs, meetings, and conferences.
Niska Isle is a family-owned, 16 acre compound that is located between locks six and seven on the Mohawk River. Built as a rural retreat for the Schoolcraft family from Schenectady, Niska Isle is an idyllic location for an outdoor wedding, reunion, or family gathering when paired with Classe Catering's expertise in event production and world-class service. "Our decision to work exclusively with Clases Catering was based on the company's reputation to tailor each event to the individual needs of the client, whether it be a wedding for 200 or an intimate social gathering," states Kathy Schoolcraft, current owner of Niska Isle.
Universal Preservation Hall, located in Saratoga Springs, New York, is eager to invite Classe Catering as exclusive caterer to its location. Classe Catering has organized events at the former cathedral in the past, and looks forward to an on-going relationship with the venue. "Brian Palazzolo is a brilliant caterer and certainly one of the finest in the Northeast. Classe has catered some of the most successful events at the Universal Preservation Hall. We are fortunate that he works so hard to make each event a success, and we look forward to working closely with him in the future," says Tom Lewis, the Board President of Universal Preservation Hall.
Classe Catering's owner, Brian Palazzolo, sees working with new venues as a strategic and exemplary move that differentiates Classe Catering from other caterers and banquet halls in the area. "Working exclusively with area venues allows us to enhance our design initiatives and create the absolute best experience for guests. We hope that our comprehensive event planning gives us an edge as compared with other caterers," states Palazzolo, who, along with Classe Catering, has won several local and international awards for cuisine, design and service.
Brian has achieved success with similar business ventures at 11 North Pearl Event Centre, which is currently booking weddings, galas and holiday parties through 2010. To see other locations Classe Catering works in association with, or for inquiries on its services, please visit www.classecatering.com.
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May 12, 2009
COMPLEXIONS SPA FIRST IN COUNTRY TO RECEIVE GOLD LEED CERTIFICATION FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION
ALBANY, N.Y. - Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness in Albany is the first spa in the United States to earn Gold certification under the U.S. Green Building Council's (USGBC) LEED rating system for new construction. A year ago this month, Complexions Spa opened its new eco-friendly facility at 221 Wolf Road in Albany. The state-of-the-art green spa allows people to escape from every day life and retreat in an environment that promotes the natural connections between personal wellbeing and environmental responsibility. "We're delighted as a small business to have created and be operating the country's first day spa to obtain Gold level certification, said Denise Dubois, owner of Complexions Spa. "Our small team worked very hard to achieve such stature and we hope to set an example for all small businesses across the nation."
There are four levels of LEED certification: certified, silver, gold and platinum. Certification is based on energy use, lighting, water and material use as well as incorporating a variety of other sustainable strategies. LEED was established for market leaders to design and construct buildings that protect and save precious resources while also making good economic sense - a move championed by Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY). "I applaud Denise Dubois' leadership and vision for smart and green investment in our community," said Senator Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. She continued, "Complexions' innovative green construction is an example of an economic opportunity for expansion and giving consumers an opportunity to invest in small businesses that are trying to make a difference."
LEED certification of Complexions Spa was based on a number of green design and construction features that positively impact the project itself and the broader community. Complexions Spa is powered by wind and water sources in the Adirondacks. The facility is made of recyclable, renewable and sustainable materials including: low VOC paint and wallpaper, cork flooring and energy efficient appliances. "With each new LEED-certified building, we get one step closer to USGBC's vision of a sustainable built environment within a generation," said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council. "As the newest member of the green family of green buildings, Complexions Spa is an important addition to the growing strength of the green building movement."
Additionally, Complexions Spa was recently named "Salon of Distinction" by Salon Today and will appear in the industry-leading publication's June issue. Last year, Complexions Spa was the only business in the Capital Region to win an Energy STAR Small Business and Congregations awards by the department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency. Visit www.complexions.com for more information on Complexions' services and treatments, or call 518-935-2819.
About Complexions:
Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness specializes in using natural ingredients, unique recipes, and the finest procedures and therapies, all performed by the best-trained, most-qualified and certified technicians. Complexions Spa provides a full range of spa, skin care and hair services. The Complexions team also works in conjunction with area plastic surgeons and dermatologists to develop healing treatments that assist surgical recovery as well as programs for acne care and age management.
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April 24, 2009
FIRST QUARTER OF 2009 IS STRONG FOR ALBANY PR FIRM
ALBANY, N.Y. - 2009 is off to a good start for woman-owned Baker Public Relations, Inc. The Albany-based public relations firm added five new clients during the first quarter of the year, including an Albany law firm, Ginsberg's Foods, Inc., Pioneer Bank, eWillow.com and Classe Catering.
An established downtown Albany law firm specializing in cases that involve criminal law, white collar crime, election law, personal injury, medical malpractice, products liability, estates and estate litigation hired Baker PR the first of the year.
Located just south of Albany in Hudson, NY, Ginsberg's Foods, Inc., is the area's leading independent food distributor. Ginsberg's serves more than 40 counties in six states which include New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey and employs more than 220 full-time people. 2009 marks Ginsberg's 100th anniversary.
Based in Troy, NY, Pioneer Bank serves four counties with fifteen branches located throughout the Capital District. The bank is celebrating 120 years of service this year. Pioneer Bank has also recently received a 5 Star Rating from BauerFinancial, Inc., for the 20th consecutive year. Less than 10% of the nation's banks can claim this distinction.
eWillow.com is an upcoming ecommerce website out of Jupiter, Florida. Owner Charlene Harreveld hired Baker Public Relations to assist the company in public relations, marketing, branding and strategic planning. eWillow.com is an online boutique that specializes in handmade, designer papercrafts.
Finally, Classe Catering is the latest to join Baker PR's diverse client portfolio. Classe Catering, celebrating its 15th anniversary, is now catering private events at 11 North Pearl Events Centre, formerly the Home Savings Bank in downtown Albany. From consultation, strategic event planning, design, catering, event management and event rentals, Classe covers every aspect of making a special occasion "special."
Baker PR is pleased to partner with these new clients and join them with a current client base that includes both local and national clients and brands.
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March 27, 2009
PIONEER BANK REMAINS STRONG AND STABLE AS IT CELEBRATES 120 YEARS
TROY, N.Y. - Pioneer Bank is weathering the current financial crisis and economic recession as it celebrates 120 years of business. Pioneer Bank has survived and remained strong through the toughest of times including the Great Depression, the savings and loan scandals and is forging ahead through today's economic storm.
Formed by a group of printers, the Pioneer Building Loan and Savings Association opened its first bank on River Street in Troy on March 12, 1889. With fifteen branches in four counties, Pioneer has long been committed to serving the local community, not-for-profit organizations and local businesses.
Pioneer did not participate in the federal government's Troubled Assets Relief Program (TARP) because it is the highest capitalized bank in the Capital Region. Conservative lending over the years is what allowed Pioneer to remain stable throughout its 120 year history. For 20 consecutive years Pioneer has received a 5 Star Rating from BauerFinancial, Inc. Fewer than 10% of the nation's banks can claim this distinction. "Sound financial decisions and investment in the communities in which we live and work has built a loyal clientele in the Capital Region for Pioneer. We will continue to lend and be an integral part of the community," said Pioneer Bank CEO John Scarchilli.
Deep roots in the community and employee appreciation also play a huge part in the success of Pioneer Bank. Its managers know the needs of area consumers and businesses. "In these uncertain economic times Pioneer is a beacon of presence, security, dependability, hometown hospitality and top level know-how as finances go," said a longtime customer of nearly 30 years. Additionally, all of Pioneer's charitable and community contributions are made to local organizations. Pioneer is, and has been, a stable employer of area residents since it first opened its doors.
Pioneer Bank is celebrating its 120th Anniversary all year with community events, incentive programs to help boost the local economy and assist its customers and organizations in the communities it serves.
As an example, Pioneer, in conjunction with the Troy Rehabilitation Improvement Program, Inc., is hosting a first time home buyers' seminar. This seminar is free of charge and will help potential home buyers with any questions they may have regarding the home-buying process. Specialists will explain mortgage affordability, applications and available programs. It will be held Tuesday, March 31st at 6 p.m. at Pioneer's Troy offices at 21 Second Street.
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February 5, 2009
OLANA COMPLETES NEW SIGNAGE PROJECT, CONTRIBUTES $7.9M TO THE LOCAL ECONOMY
HUDSON, N.Y. - The Olana Partnership (TOP) held a press conference on February 5th to announce the release of a recent economic impact study. This study demonstrates Olana's importance to its community, contributing $7.9 million to the local economy each year and supporting 267 jobs. Olana also announced the completion of a new project that improves the signage on the property, thanks to significant funding by Senator Stephen Saland. Speakers included Sara Johns Griffen, President of TOP, Linda McLean, Olana's Historic Site Manager, Senator Stephen Saland, 41st District, Kenneth Flood, Commissioner of Columbia County Planning and Economic Development, and David Colby, President of the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce.
Olana is the home, studio, and artist designed landscape of 19th-century American painter, Frederic E. Church (1826-1900). It is located in Hudson, N.Y. and is a National Historic Site. Completed in 1872, the Persian-inspired house was conceived as the centerpiece of the 250-acre property developed by Church as a three dimensional work of art. Owned and operated by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation and supported by its non-profit collaborator The Olana Partnership, Olana presents an exceptional educational and cultural experience for the approximately 170,000 people who visit annually. This includes many thousands of local residents who come to enjoy the trails, sunsets and picnic spots, and the hundreds of schoolchildren who learn about this wonderful example of "the birthplace of American culture".
Thanks to this unique public-private partnership, Olana has a significant impact on the local economy:
- The 170,000 visitors to Olana each year spend money at local restaurants, B& B's, gas stations and shops. In 2008, Olana visitor spending was estimated at $337 per couple for out-of-towners staying at a hotel, $213 for out-of-towners visiting for the day and $79 for locals. Visitor survey indicates that 49% of visitors are local (visiting from primary or second homes) and 51% are visiting from out-of-town. Hotel or B&B accommodations are used by 23% of visitors.
- Olana supports the equivalent of 267 jobs in the local economy, which includes Olana employees, jobs supported by the spending of visitors to Olana, and jobs supported at businesses that service Olana. A sampling of many of the local firms that provide services to Olana: Pro Printers, Williams Lumber, Scoob's Excavating, Herrington's Lumber, Mid-Hudson Cable, Johnny's Ideal Printing, and Pattison Koskey Howe and Bucci CPA.
- Since 1999 TOP has raised more than $13.5 million for projects at Olana.
- Combining the impact from visitors with its operating and capital contributions, Olana has an economic impact of $7.9 million in the local economy.
- In 2008 alone, TOP completed a $2.5 million dollar capital project to create a year-round education center with handicap accessible public restrooms, and to underground overhead wires. The Wagon House Education Center began programs in September and has provided 28 weekend art workshops for 286 children ages 3 to 11, more than 140 backpack exploration programs, 5 new multi-session art and environmental workshops for 42 young people, and two week-long sessions of summer camp for 46 children ages 7-12.
New Signage System Completed
TOP is pleased to announce the completion of a two year project to create and install new interpretive signs on the Olana site, furthering support for the local economy. Due to the steady growth in visitation to Olana, new signage became increasingly necessary. Funding was secured through Senator Stephen Saland to cover the cost of the project. Chatham resident Rich Kraham created a signage system sensitive to the unique and historic landscape at Olana. The project has a two-part goal: To create signage that integrates with the landscape, yet is functional and provides a clear description of Olana's offerings. TOP and State officials worked closely to develop a design that utilizes unique elements from the main house. Prototypes were created and tested, and visitors and now greeted with a new sign near the Rip Van Winkle Bridge and at the entry on Rt. 9G, with banners that highlight special events. Signs on the property provide visitor information and directions.
Olana has proven to be a vital entity to the Hudson area for both its beauty and its contributions to the local economy. "This study shows the tremendous impact that Olana and tourism have on Columbia County," stated David Colby, President of the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce. Olana continues to work with the local community to maintain the economy. Commissioner Kenneth Flood added, "In addition to the direct economic impact to the local economy, world class sites like Olana add significantly to the quality of life in the region, which in turn is highly attractive to companies that are thinking of relocating. That sort of impact can't be as readily measured but is hugely important to the growth of this region."
About Olana:
Olana State Historic Site, one of six historic sites and 12 parks administered by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), Taconic Region, is a designated National Historic Landmark and one of the most visited sites in the state. The Olana Partnership, a private not-for-profit education corporation, works cooperatively with New York State to support the restoration, development and improvement of Olana State Historic Site. To learn more about Olana, please visit www.olana.org.