Publisher uses historic building to grow business

Amity - The newly renovated historic Trusdell General Store in Amity is now home to the publisher of the popular book about local history, “Days Gone By: Warwick, NY,” announced Diane Tinney, founder of Keene Publishing and Moo Press Children’s Books. “In doing layout for ‘Days Gone By: Warwick, NY,’ I had loved the pictures of Amity and knew of the rich history of this hamlet,” Tinney said. “Living only a mile from Amity, I had passed the old Trusdell General Store many times and wondered if someday someone would renovate that building.” Upon seeing the for-rent sign at the end of December, Tinney said this was the right place for her independent publishing company to grow. Built in 1875, the Trusdell building was renovated by Warwick owners Dr. Calvin Hargis and Dan Hickey. While the two front offices are complete (one yet unrented), and one apartment upstairs is occupied, they continue to renovate the other two apartments. “By preserving and restoring historically significant buildings,” Hargis said, “we preserve our sense of identity. It helps us to know where we came from and reminds us of the charm that a slower, less stressful lifestyle once offered.” Tinney added: “Our vision has always been and continues to be to publish a variety of good books that can have a positive impact on people’s lives.” Keene Publishing/Moo Press was founded in 2002 and has published 18 books for children and adults. An additional four titles will be published this year. “When we find good books - books that inform and inspire, regardless of the genre - we want to get them into the hands of readers,” Tinney said. “Our motto reflects the dream I had when I founded Moo Press: To illuminate lives, one book at a time.” Moo Press is the children’s imprint, while Keene Publishing (www.keenebooks.com) is used for the adult titles, in honor of her husband, James Keene, and son, Dave Keene, who have supported her efforts. Tinney, who lives in Warwick, is a frequent speaker on a variety of topics. This story was provided by Peter Lyons Hall from Business Demographics Inc.