BCW News

Business Council of Westchester Receives Grant to Help Small Businesses Navigate New Health Care Law

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 21:28:36 -0500

Read the press release here

BCW joins Assembly Minority Leader and other business organizations to urge the elimination of the business energy surcharge in the year's State Budget

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 11:01:19 -0500

Read the press release here

BCW statement Regarding Echo Bay Center Waterfront Redevelopment Project

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 11:02:04 -0500

Read the statement here

Gov. Cuomo's State-of-the-State Speech Includes Benefits for Westchester's Economy

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 10:24:46 -0600

Read the press release here..

STRONG SHOWING FOR WESTCHESTER AND MID-HUDSON VALLEY IN STATE ECONOMIC COUNCIL GRANTS FOR 2013

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 09:14:26 -0600

Read the press release here..

The Business Council applauds bi-partisan effort to pass a fiscally responsible budget

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 10:44:07 -0600

Read the statement here..

Statement from Business Council of Westchester Regarding County Executive Astorino's 2013 Budget

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 09:16:33 -0600

Read the statement here..

Business Council of Westchester hosts special Health Care Forum

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 13:01:47 -0600

Business Council of Westchester hosted a special Health Care Forum on how businesses in Westchester will be affected by implementation of the New York State Health Benefit Exchange in 2014.

Discussions were led by a panel of experts; Danielle Holahan, Director for Policy and Planning, New York State Health Benefit Exchange, Jamie Schutzer, Vice President, J.D. Moschitto & Associates and Maggie Moree, Director of State Government Affairs for New York and Northern New England.

Click here to view their presentations!.

IMPORTANT NEWS ADVISORY: HEALTH CARE FORUM RESCHEDULED FOR NOVEMBER 8

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 12:22:23 -0500

Business Council Health Care Forum to Focus On How Implementation of New York State Health Benefit Exchange Will Affect Westchester Businesses

The read the press release, click here.

BCW Report Details Devastating Impacts of Closing Indian Point on Westchester Area Economy and Environment

Fri, 07 Sep 2012 13:23:15 -0500

WHITE PLAINS, NY (September 7, 2012) -- Closing the Indian Point Energy Center would have a catastrophic impact on the region resulting in higher electric rates for businesses and consumers, more power outages, a rapid rise in carbon emissions and a devastating blow to Westchester's economy.

These are the findings of a major study released today by The Business Council of Westchester on the impact of closing Indian Point. Called "An Assessment of Energy Needs in Westchester County," the report was unveiled today at an Energy Forum sponsored by The Business Council of Westchester featuring a panel of experts in the energy industry.

The read the press release, click here.

To download the study, click here.

Tappan Zee Bridge Update - Congratulations County Executive Robert Astorino

Fri, 17 Aug 2012 18:55:19 -0500

The Business Council of Westchester the leading organization advocating on behalf of a new Tappan Zee Bridge crossing applauds Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino for representing the critical needs of the business community in his timely decision in favor of building a new Hudson River crossing. Mr. Astorino's leadership on this matter is another example of why Westchester will continue to grow and promote commerce and increased quality of life and prosperity for the county. Today's announcement will help keep the positive momentum that has been created for building a new bridge and we will now go to Washington with clear bi-partisan support to urge congress to pass legislation for federal infrastructure funding the build the new Hudson River crossing without further delay.

Business Council of Westchester Statement on Tappan Zee Bridge Meeting In Westchester County

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 11:08:01 -0500

WHITE PLAINS, NY (July 25, 2012) The Business Council of Westchester (BCW) hosted the first of a series of informative meetings that the Cuomo administration will be holding across Westchester and Rockland Counties regarding the Tappan Zee Bridge Project. More than 100 business leaders attended this meeting held at Berkeley College. The following is a statement from Dr. Marsha Gordon, President and CEO of the Business Council of Westchester, on the importance of today's meeting.Read more.

Business Council to Hold Rapid Response Forum on Supreme Court's Health Care Ruling

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 14:58:57 -0500

WHITE PLAINS, NY (May 18, 2012) - The Supreme Court has ruled to uphold the national health care law, citing that the requirement to have insurance is a tax and is therefore constitutional. The law includes the individual mandate, which requires all uninsured people in the United States to have health insurance.Read more.

At-Risk Youth Expert Will Teach Local Teens About "MAKiN' iT"

Tue, 22 May 2012 15:37:21 -0500

The Business Council of Westchester and the Westchester-Putnam Workforce Investment Board (WPWIB) are partnering for this inaugural Youth Summit at Grand Prix New York in Mt. Kisco, NY. The Youth Summit will begin at 8am. Read more.

Entergy's Ken Theobalds Appointed to Business Council Executive Committee

Wed, 23 May 2012 09:27:10 -0500

The Business Council of Westchester (BCW) - the County's business advocacy and membership organization - recently appointed Ken Theobalds, Vice President of Government and Regulatory Affairs for Entergy Nuclear, to its Executive Committee. Theobalds manages the company's government relations program in the Northeast -- encompassing New York, Vermont, Massachusetts and Michigan. Read more.

Comments by Dr. Marsha Gordon, President, Business Council of Westchester

Thu, 17 May 2012 14:26:40 -0500

My name is Dr. Marsha Gordon. I am the President of the Business Council of Westchester which is comprised of 1,000 corporate, mid-size, and small business firms and individuals. It is important for all our members that Westchester has reliable, affordable power, jobs, economic development, and continued prosperity. And Indian Point is essential for meeting these challenges. Read more.

Business Council Announces Class of 2012 Rising Stars

Fri, 04 May 2012 10:22:06 -0500

The Business Council of Westchester will present 40 young professionals under the age of 40 with Rising Star awards during a ceremony at MasterCard Worldwide, Purchase, NY on Thursday, June 7th. Read more.

Brittany Oat Serra named Director of Communications for The Business Council of Westchester

Fri, 04 May 2012 10:24:10 -0500

Social Media Marketing Expert and Public Relations Strategist Will Lead Communications Efforts for Westchester's Leading Business Organization Read more.

Business Council of Westchester Statement on State of the County Address

Fri, 04 May 2012 10:26:09 -0500

The Business Council of Westchester (BCW)– the county’s business advocacy and membership organization – issued the following comment after attending County Executive Robert P. Astorino’s State of the County Address in White Plains this evening. Read more.

Business Council of Westchester Statement on State Budget Agreement

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:28:26 -0500

The budget agreement reached today by Governor Cuomo, Majority Leader Skelos and Speaker Silver will have positive implications for the Westchester business community. With 2% or less growth in state spending, as well as a net reduction in All Funds spending for the second year in a row, our leaders demonstrate they remain committed to fiscal responsibility. Read more.

Business Council Accepting Nominations for Class of 2012 Rising Stars 40 Under 40

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 12:04:55 -0600

The Business Council of Westchester is currently accepting nominations for the Class of 2012 Rising Stars 40 Under 40. Anyone over 21 years of age who works in Westchester and remains under the age of 40 through June 30, 2012 is eligible for consideration as a 2012 "Rising Star" award winner. The winners will receive their Rising Star awards during a ceremony at MasterCard Worldwide in Purchase, NY on June 7, 2012. Nominations are accepted online only at http://www.westchesterny.org/grow/starnominate.html. The deadline to nominate a potential Rising Star is April 13, 2012. Click here to read the complete press release.

County Executive Astorino to kick off 10th Anniversary Mega Mixer Business Expo

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 09:14:08 -0600

The Business Council will hold its 10th annual Mega Mixer Business Expo at the Hilton Rye Town hotel in Rye, New York from 2:00 to 6:00 pm on March 15, 2012. Doors will open at 1:00 pm for a special "Conversation with the County
Executive," where County Executive Rob Astorino will present a brief update on the current state
of affairs in Westchester County, followed by an in-depth Q&A. At a 4:00 pm panel event for
attendees, "Competing in 2012 and Beyond - How To Win In A Challenging Economy," a group
of experts in the fields of strategic planning, customer service, social media and banking will educate
attendees on taking their business to the next level. Learn more.

ReplaceTheTZBridgeNow.Org launched

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 15:32:59 -0600

As a partner in the campaign to replace the Tappan Zee Bridge, The Business Council of Westchester is pleased to announce the launch of www.replacethetzbridgenow.org - your source for complete information about the proposed replacement project for the Tappan Zee Bridge. Replacethetzbridgenow.org is a broad statewide coalition of major employers, transportation professionals, civil engineers and labor organizations, representing more than 300,00 employees and more than 15,000 employers who depend on the Tappan Zee Bridge daily for safe, efficient commuting, freight deliveries, leisure travel, as well as those companies and professionals who provide dependable and expeditious emergency services.

Statement on Governor's Budget

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:13:39 -0600

The entire tone of Governor Cuomo's budget presentation today was indicative of a major shift in priorities. Instead of a reactive government focused on financial crisis management, we see a responsible government delivering an on-time budget that closes a $3.5 billion gap without any gimmicks, and without any new fees or taxes. Finally, we have pro-active, business-friendly leadership focused on reform, economic development, and progress. Read more.

BCW Welcomes New Board, Executive Committee Members

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 03:56:29 -0600

The Business Council recently elected seven members of the business community to its Board of Directors: Renee M. Brown, Daniel Conte, Joanne R. Deyo, Timothy M. Jones, Patrick F. Lynch, Yuval H. Marcus and Simeon A. Schwartz, M.D., WESTMED Medical Group. Two Board members, Elizabeth Bracken-Thompson and Jean Marie Connolly, have joined the Executive Committee. Executive Committee member Cynthia Rubino is now chairing the Governmental Action Council. Stephen J. Jones of Jones, LLP was re-elected Chairman of The Board. Read more.

Call for Hall of Fame Nominations

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 12:57:51 -0600

The Business Council has issued a call for nominations for the 2012 Westchester County Business Hall of Fame, presented by MasterCard Worldwide and Entergy. To recognize the lifetime achievements of a client, prospect, friend or your own company/organization, submit a nomination in one of these five categories: small business, entrepreneurial success, corporate citizenship, family-owned business success or women in business success. Click here for past winners, nomination criteria and online nomination form.

Victory!

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:49:29 -0600

New York's middle class and small businesses get relief as Governor Andrew Cuomo, Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver announce that they have reached a proposed three-way agreement that will:

-Reduce the MTA payroll tax for small businesses
-Create new investment in New York's infrastructure
-Pass a fair tax reform plan that achieves a tax cut for 4.4 million middle class New Yorkers
-Provide $50 million of additional relief for flood damaged areas

Learn more!

Business Council welcomes new Director of Membership

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 15:46:59 -0600

Sara James, a business development and sales strategist expert, has joined the Business Council has Director of Membership, effective today. A polished professional with extensive experience as a manager and marketer, Sara is adept at interfacing with senior level executives and has demonstrated her management expertise working on major accounts such as Chase Bank, Revlon and Kenneth Cole.

Sara will lead the Business Council's membership acquisition and retention efforts with the goal to expand membership across targeted business sectors while partnering with members to enhance services. Sara can be reached at sjames@westchesterny.org or (914) 948-2110.

Click here to read the complete press release.

BCW congratulates Mid-Hudson Regional Council

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 15:51:11 -0600

Governor Cuomo's bottom-up approach to economic development is designed to incent transformational change in New York's economy, region by region. The priorities identified in Mid-Hudson plan herald an exciting economic rebirth for our region, embracing our diversity and unique strengths.

Click here to read the complete press release.

BCW reviews Astorino’s Proposed 2012 Budget

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 15:50:46 -0600

Immediately following the release of the 2012 County Executive Budget to the public, County Executive Rob Astorino held a special briefing for the Business Council leadership, including members of the Board of Directors, Governmental Action Council, and Coalition for Business Development. Click here to learn more about the key elements that will affect the business community.`

Click here to read the complete press release.

John Ravitz joins BCW as Executive Vice President

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 16:06:37 -0500

On October 31, John Ravitz, Former State Assemblyman and American Red Cross executive, will join the Business Council staff as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. John will oversee the Business Council’s legislative, government affairs and community relations, and will play a key role in developing and expanding membership services. Click here to read the full press release.

Dr. Marsha Gordon appointed by Governor to serve on Regional Council

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 16:24:01 -0500

BCW President/CEO Dr. Marsha Gordon was appointed by Governor Cuomo to serve on the Mid Hudson Regional Economic Development Council. The Council will drive local economic development and improve business climate statewide. BCW Executive Board member Wiley Harrison, Business of Your Business, was also appointed. Lieutenant Governor Robert Duffy joined local officials, business leaders, and community members to launch the Regional Council at SUNY New Paltz today. Click here to read the press release.

Coalition for Business Development issues groundbreaking report

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 09:09:13 -0500

At a press conference held July 7th at C.W. Brown Inc. in Armonk, The Westchester Coalition for Business Development - The Business Council of Westchester's task force established to develop strategies for attracting and retaining businesses in Westchester - issued its report: a creative and innovative tool kit of action steps to help build and strengthen Westchester's new economic development structure.

Click here to learn more.

Also, read more about the Coalition from the following sources:

CBS News

The Westchester County Business Journal

The Journal News

Main Street Connect

DigitalJournal.Com

BCW Organizing October 2011 Trip to China

Tue, 03 May 2011 14:46:44 -0500

The Business Council of Westchester, Bronx Chamber of Commerce and Chamber of Commerce of New Rochelle have partnered with Citslinc International Inc. to host a delegation of local businesspeople to visit China in October 2011. Click here for more information on departure/return dates, price per person, itinerary and registration form.

BCW Applauds Tentative State Budget Agreement

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:17:40 -0500

The announcement of a tentative agreement on the state budget is welcome news to all New Yorkers. We commend Governor Andrew Cuomo, Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver for agreeing to a budget that reduces overall spending and closes a $10 billion budget gap without raising taxes and increasing the state's debt. Click here to read the complete press release.

2011 Business Hall of Fame Winners Announced

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 10:11:35 -0600

The 2011 Business Hall of Fame inductees are: Corporate Citizenship: The Dannon Company, Inc.; Entrepreneurial Success: WESTMED Medical Group; Small Business Success: Westchester Magazine; Women in Business Success: Dr. Molly Easo Smith, President; Manhattanville College; Family Business Success: Wilson & Son Jewelers. The winners will be honored at the Hall of Fame Awards dinner on Thursday, April 14th at Glen Island Harbour Club. Read the Business Council's press release.

First Meeting of BCW'S Westchester Coalition for Business Development

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 12:37:50 -0600

In a concerted effort to move Westchester's economy in a positive direction, The Business Council of Westchester yesterday announced the formation and held the first meeting of a new task force that will focus on the major issues critical to retaining existing businesses and attracting new ones to the county. Read the press release. See the list of participants.

Business Council Supports Astorino's Proposed 2011 Budget

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 11:30:38 -0600

As expected, the County Executive was forced to make many difficult decisions to close an estimated $166 million budget deficit. He made good on his pledge to balance the budget without raising taxes and at the same time, deliver essential services in a more efficient manner. Additionally, much needed relief will be delivered to taxpayers as the county tax levy is projected to be reduced by 1 percent. Read the Business Council's press release.

Take the Westchester Green Business Challenge!

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 12:39:10 -0500

Participate in a voluntary competition to improve the environmental performance of your business. Click here for info!

PRSA Regional Business Outlook 2011

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 17:28:27 -0500

On November 4th from 11:45 to 2:00pm, hear all you need to know about the business outlook for our area from the people who know best: the esteemed presidents of the Business Councils of Westchester and Fairfield counties - Dr. Marsha Gordon and Chris Bruhl. They will cover the local economy, local opportunities, growth sectors and other critical issues. Get a first-hand report on what the future holds - and the past year was like — while networking with your PR colleagues and enjoying a great lunch. Click here for details and registration: https://prsa-wf.org/register_new.php?id=21.

2010 Voters' Guide

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 14:31:39 -0500

In our continuing efforts to provide information regarding the upcoming legislative elections in New York State, The Business Council of Westchester is pleased to link our members to the 2010 Voters' Guide released by the Business Council of New York State.

Harry Wilson to address BCW members

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 09:46:51 -0500

Harry Wilson, candidate for New York State Comptroller, will speak at an "open" meeting of The Business Council of Westchester's Governmental Action Council on Friday, September 24, from 8:00 to 9:00 am at the Business Council's offices at 108 Corporate Park Drive, Suite 101, White Plains, NY 10604. Members who wish to attend should email msmith@westchesterny.org or call (914) 948-2110.

ENOUGH ALREADY NY!

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 12:36:09 -0500

The Business Council of New York State with The Business Council of Westchester invite you to the launch of ENOUGH ALREADY NY! This is an initiative to unite New Yorkers who want lower taxes, more efficient government, economic growth, and jobs. Join us on Tuesday, April 20 from 11am to 12pm at Sam's of Gedney Way, 50 Gedney Way in White Plains. RSVP to Maria Smith at The Business Council of Westchester at msmith@westchesterny.org or 914-948-2110 by Thursday, April 15. Free parking is available at the restaurant. Enough Already NY! is a new campaign to provide New Yorkers with a way to speak out so legislators know that we've had enough. Visit www.EnoughAlreadyNY.org to learn more.

The Academy for Entrepreneurial Excellence Enters Its 11th Year

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:36:23 -0600

Registration for the Westchester premier's entrepreneurial program, The Academy for Entrepreneurial Excellence, has begun. Run as a partnership between The Business Council of Westchester and Westchester Community College, some of Westchester's most prominent and successful entrepreneurs have taken this program and have seen their businesses grow more profitable as a result. With top-rated instructors who are known as the best in their fields, business owners learn what it takes to run and grow a successful business. Learn more about The Academy at http://www.sunywcc.edu/academy or call Harry Horowitz at (914) 606-6669.

Business Council Accelerates Fiscal Reform Advocacy Efforts

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 11:50:46 -0500

On Sunday 10/18, BCW President/CEO Dr. Marsha Gordon attended a private briefing and press conference hosted by Governor David Paterson to formally announce his Deficit Reduction Plan (DRP) for New York State. Dr. Gordon was among 30 business leaders from across the state to attend the briefing, where she pledged her support for the Governor's plan which requires approval from the state legislature. Read more about the DRP and the Business Council's support for the plan as it appeared in our October 16 press release and in the October 17th edition of The Journal News. To support the Governor and ensure that the Legislature does not resort to tax and fee increases, visit the Fix New York Action Center to send correspondence directly to NYS elected officials.

Annual Dinner offered opportunity, ideas

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 11:52:49 -0500

At the Business Council's Annual Dinner on October 8, 450 business and community leaders had the chance to network, connect and build the relationships that grow business. We were also privileged to meet Joe Scarborough - and surprise guest Meeka Brzezinski - and hear their thoughts on America's political environment. If you missed the event, you also missed Business Council President/CEO Dr. Marsha Gordon report on the past year, and share her vision for the future. Read Marsha's remarks.

Westchester Green Business Challenge

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 16:22:54 -0500

The Business Council of Westchester and County Executive Andrew J. Spano are challenging Westchester County businesses and property owners to participate in a friendly, voluntary competition to improve the environmental performance of their business operations. Visit the Green Business Challenge website and register your interest, submit a green business case study, or review a synopsis of the most important actions your business can take today to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote sustainability and save money.

Does Your Small Business Need A Marketing Makeover?

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 06:29:17 -0500

The Business Council of Westchester is looking for one small business to win a complete head-to-toe marketing makeover worth nearly $40,000! Brought to you by the Business Council's Marketing Communications Council (MCC), the Small Business Marketing Makeover, sponsored by Country Bank, is an opportunity for your company to benefit from the expertise and generosity of an entire team of marketing and public relations professionals.

BCW Vice President Paul Vitale testifies before New York State Energy Planning Board

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 11:25:01 -0500

On August 21, 2009, BCW's Vice President of Government & Community Relations, Paul Vitale, testified before the New York State Entergy Planning Board regarding the Draft 2009 New York State Energy Plan. Paul spoke in favor of recommendations for a revitalized power plant siting law and renewable energy initiatives, but expressed The Business Council of Westchester's strong disapproval of the plan's recommendation to shut down the Indian Point nuclear power plant, which we believe would have a devastating impact on our community and state. Click here to read Paul's complete testimony.

BCW Urges Legislative Action on Economy - Focus on economic development, jobs

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 13:43:59 -0500

The June unemployment figures released by the New York State Labor Department should serve as a wake-up call to our legislators that more action is desperately needed in the areas of economic development and job creation in order for New York to recover from the current economic crisis. Click the headline to read BCW President/CEO Dr. Marsha Gordon's community view in The Journal News.

Take Action to Oppose Commercial Assessment Ratio Bill

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 16:49:15 -0500

The Business Council of Westchester is calling for the defeat of the commercial assessment ratio bill by the New York State Senate on the grounds that this legislation will unjustifiably shift the tax burden from single family homeowners to commercial property tax owners and the owners of condominiums and cooperatives in Westchester County. Contact your State senator and Governor Paterson by visiting the BCW's online Advocacy Center at www.voteforwestchesterny.org and clicking the "Take Action Now" link.

Business Council Announces Class of '09 Rising Stars

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 16:50:06 -0500

On Thursday, June 11, The Business Council of Westchester will present 40 young professionals with Rising Star awards during a ceremony at The Atrium at 800 Westchester Avenue in Rye Brook. Modeled after the national business recognition program "Forty under Forty," the Business Council has honored the extraordinary accomplishments of Westchester's most accomplished business leaders under the age of 40 each year since 2004.

Tell us your "GREEN" business story

Fri, 08 May 2009 10:43:48 -0500

If you have a green business story, tell us about it and we will share your accomplishment(s) with our Green Business Advisory Council. This council focuses on educating and encouraging Westchester’s businesses to become more environmentally sustainable. For more information, contact pvitale@westchesterny.org.

Business Council of Westchester members provide essential input to Talent for Growth Regional Workforce Plan

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 15:19:43 -0500

Dr. Marsha Gordon: Westchester County's Most Influential in Business

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 17:35:56 -0500

As seen in Westchester Magazine

Stop the MTA Payroll Tax

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 13:58:03 -0500

The MTA is proposing a payroll tax of 33 cents on every $100 spent in payroll to be paid by employers in the 12-county MTA Region to help close their budget gap. This tax would apply equally to private businesses, non-profit organizations, municipalities and school districts. Click the headline to read more and find out how you can voice your opposition to this proposed tax.

Cap Property Taxes NOW

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 17:36:26 -0500

The Business Council of Westchester has joined a broad-based coalition of individuals, associations and businesses called the New York State Property Tax Cap Coalition formed to support Gov. Paterson's proposed property tax cap. Supporters of the cap can join the coalition at www.taxcapnow.org.

An Assessment of Energy Needs in Westchester County

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 17:37:33 -0500

The Economic Impact of Rising Energy Prices and Shortages in Supplies