Business notebook: Sign of the times

Warwick - In 2002, Provident Bank, one of the leading regional financial institutions serving Rockland, Orange, Sullivan, Ulster and Putnam counties in New York as well as Bergen County, N.J., acquired the National Bank of Florida. That bank had always enjoyed a special relationship with the Florida and Pine Island agricultural community. “I was born in a farming area of Ireland,” said Tom Fitzgerald, assistant vice president for Provident Bank’s business development, as he pointed to an onion field on Pawelski Farms. “I know that these farmers will not see the fruits of their labor until harvest time. We understand that and we can work with it.” Chris and Eve Pawelski, fourth generation owners of Pawelski Farms on Pulaski Highway, appreciate the fact that Provident Bank has continued the tradition of the National Bank of Florida in supporting the local farm community. They recently offered Provident space on their property, adjacent to Pulaski Highway, to erect a sign stating the area mission of the bank: “Connecting people with opportunity in the black dirt region.” Onion farmer Chris Pawelski credits Provident Bank for swift action and funding to stall a planned move and help keep a local New York State Department of Labor Office, which is an important supplier of farm labor, in the Pine Island area. “What you are doing for the community is terrific,” said Pawelski. “We’re honored to have this sign on our property.” Provident Bank plans to continue its special relationship with the Florida/Pine Island community. “Only the name has changed,” said Provident’s Executive Vice President Richard Jones. who also has a background in farming. “We will continue to support this fine community in every way.” Clam & Jam Michael McDermott, former owner of The Bookstore, is now operations manager for Pennings Farm Market. McDermott brings his advertising and marketing experience as a shop owner and former radio station manager to the newly created position. “I believe that I’m offering Steve and Jill Pennings some worthwhile contributions to their business,” said McDermott. Currently, he’s been promoting Pennings’ popular and successful “Clam & Jam” series. The “Clam & Jam” series started last year and was a big hit with local residents. The first of four “Clam & Jams” for 2007 was held Friday, July 20. The remaining three evening events will take place on Aug. 3, 17 and 31. Taking place outdoors under an open tent, “Clam & Jams” feature free, live musical entertainment and a specially prepared menu by the Harvest Grill’s Executive Chef Frank Costintino. Naturally, one of the favored items are steamed clams and guests can choose from three entree options: St. Louis style ribs with Pennings BBQ glaze, Grilled Bell & Evans smokey BBQ chicken or Southern-fried US farm-raised catfish with spicy New Orleans Remoulade Sauce. “The entire family,” said McDermott, “is welcome to bring some lawn chairs or a blanket, enjoy some good music from local musicians and savor a delicious meal under the summer night sky.” For information call 986-1059. A Fish out of Water When you enter the brand new shop you’re treated to soft music, polished hard wood floors and an amazing display of merchandise. “A Fish out of Water,” gift shop owned by Lisa Rose Acoraci, recently moved from 20 North Main St. to a totally renovated historic building at 2 North Main St. in the Village of Florida. “The Allison Brooke Building,” a superb renovation, now home to “A Fish out of Water,” has become a showplace for the downtown beautification program spearheaded by the Florida Chamber of Commerce. The gift shop owner, Lisa Acoraci, had enjoyed a 27-year career as a trauma nurse at a Westchester hospital when she was injured on her job and could not return to work. She explained that she always had a flair for art and design and decided, at that time, to put her talent to good use by opening up a gift shop. “And as a nurse,” said Acoraci, “I loved helping others. I wanted my store to offer service like the old days when the shopkeeper would carry the packages out to the customer’s wagon or car.” Acoraci, whose mother, Gen, is generally on hand to help manage the shop, describes “A Fish out of Water,” as “The ultimate gift shop - sophisticated yet affordable.” The shop features Lang all occasion cards, jewelry, inspirational and spiritual items, specialty gift baskets, Willow Tree collectible figurines, Ganz charms, Beanpod Soy candles, Polish pottery and Lolita Martini glasses. Senior discounts are available every day. Call 651-0155. Ladies Night Out We hate to rush the summer but the Downtown Warwick Merchants are already planning for the 10th Anniversary of their now traditional celebration of “Ladies Night Out,” and “Queen for a Day.” This year’s event is scheduled for Thursday evening, Aug. 23. “Queen for a Day,” is an opportunity for a special lady to be recognized by her family and friends for her generous spirit, caring heart and selfless nature. The winner, who will be crowned in Railroad Green Park, will receive an assortment of gift certificates and merchandise valued at more than $1,000. Nomination forms are available at Style Counsel Men on Railroad Avenue and Style Counsel Women on Main Street. Pine Island Chamber The Pine Island Chamber of Commerce held a mixer on June 28 to celebrate new businesses that have recently located in the hamlet. Guests were able to enjoy the bounty of the black dirt region, including wines donated by a new local business, the Tornello Brothers’ Winery, wines from Warwick Valley Winery and a “Pochuck Punch” created by Vito Carlucci, owner of Pine Island Wines and Liquors. Public officials who attended included County Legislator Michael Pillmeier, Warwick Supervisor Michael Sweeton, Warwick Town Councilmen Leonard DeBuck, Jim Gerstner and Floyd DeAngelo, Penny Steyer of the Architectural Board of Review and Greenwood Lake Village Justice Nancy DeAngelo. Well-known Pine Island caterers who contributed hors d’oeuvres, included Quaker Creek Store, Ye Jolly Onion Inn and Cheryl Rogowski’s of Rogowski Farms. The Pine Island Chamber also revealed their first two “Art In Agriculture” series of post cards. The cards, from photographs by Nick Zungoli, are now on sale in Pine Island stores.