CONTENTS

PRESIDENT’S WELCOME 6

WHY JOIN THE CHAMBER 7

TOWN SUPERVISOR LETTER 8

BREWSTER MAYOR LETTER 9

NEXT LEVEL LEADERS LUNCHEON 10

BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR 11

COMMUNITY LEADER 12

RISING PROFESSIONAL 14

DEMOGRAPHICS 16

TOURISM 18

BREWSTER HISTORY 24

STRATEGIC ADVANTAGE 28

EDUCATION 30

AMBASSADOR HIGHLIGHT 32

MEET THE BOARD 33

IMPORTANT CONTACTS 34

MEMBER DIRECTORY 35

WELCOME LETTER

It is with immense joy and enthusiasm that I, on behalf of the Brewster Chamber of Commerce, extend a heartfelt welcome to each and every one of you as you embark on your journey within our vibrant and diverse community.

To those who are new to the Town of Southeast/Village of Brewster: As you acclimate to your surroundings and explore the unique offerings of our community, we are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to you. Our town is rich in history, community spirit and resources waiting to be discovered. We invite you to refer to the enclosed community guide for valuable information on local businesses, cultural attractions and recreational opportunities.

To Local Business Owners: Your role in the local economic landscape is vital, and we are proud to have you as integral members of our community. We look forward to supporting your business endeavors and fostering a collaborative partnership that benefits both your enterprise and the broader Southeast/Brewster community. Please know that the Brewster Chamber of Commerce is here to assist you in any way we can.

To Current Residents: Your continued support, involvement and dedication are deeply valued and appreciated. Your contributions help to shape and enhance our community in meaningful ways, making Southeast/Brewster a wonderful place to live, work and thrive. Together, let us continue to uphold and strengthen the fabric of community that defines our local community.

Whether you are new to the area, establishing your business roots or have long been a cherished member of our community, we are committed to supporting you in your endeavors. Please feel free to reach out to us for information, assistance or opportunities to further engage with our community.

Once again, welcome to Southeast/Brewster, where possibilities abound, connections flourish and lasting memories are created. We are delighted to have you as part of our community.

Warm regards,

Candice Sciarrillo
2025 Board President
Brewster Chamber of Commerce
[email protected]
(845) 279-2477
www.BrewsterChamber.com

Why Join the Chamber

Discover the Benefits of Joining the Brewster Chamber of Commerce!

Are you looking to grow your business and become an integral part of the Brewster community? Joining the Brewster Chamber of Commerce opens up a world of opportunities for you and your business, including:

1. Networking Opportunities: Connect with local business owners at our monthly meetings, before and after business networking mixers and special events. These connections can lead to valuable partnerships, collaborations and referrals for your business.

2. Professional Development: Take advantage of our informational programs, guest speakers to enhance your professional skills and knowledge, and even host your own seminar.

3. Increased Publicity and Exposure: Benefit from increased visibility through our social media, website and community outreach initiatives, helping you reach a wider audience.

4. Chamber Committees & Ambassador Program: Get involved in developing new programs, events and community outreach through our various committees. Elevate your profile by joining a committee or becoming a Brewster Chamber Ambassador.

5. Philanthropy: Join us in giving back to the community through our philanthropic endeavors, such as our annual scholarships for Brewster High School students.

6. Enhanced Credibility: Membership in the chamber can boost your business’s status and credibility within the community.

7. Member-to-Member Discounts: Access exclusive member-to-member discounts offered by our members.

8. Monthly Newsletters & FREE Advertising: Benefit from free advertising in our monthly newsletters, reaching a wide audience within and beyond Brewster.

9. Free Event Postings: Get your organization’s events posted for free on our website, increasing your event’s visibility.

10. Brochure Display: Showcase your business through the display of your business cards and brochures in our office lobby.

11. Exclusive Referrals: Chamber board, members and staff provide exclusive referrals to chamber members, giving you an advantage in getting connected with potential clients or partners.

By becoming a member of the Brewster Chamber of Commerce, you join a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting businesses and the local community.

Take the next step in advancing your business and becoming an active member of the Brewster business community. Join us at the Brewster Chamber of Commerce!

TOWN SUPERVISOR LETTER

It’s for good reason that the Town of Southeast is known as ‘The Hub of the Harlem Valley’. Located at the crossroads of numerous highways, rural roadways (some dating back to colonial times) and Metro North railroad, Southeast is perfectly situated to take advantage of both local convenience and life in the country.

Founded in 1788 Southeast started as a farming town but has an even more fascinating past. Mining, Borden condensed milk, the founding of the American circus and five beautiful New York City reservoirs all figure prominently in Southeast’s history. We even have the Southeast Museum to showcase our interesting past. And a visit to Tilly Foster Farm reflects our agrarian roots. Looking to the future, we have the Southeast Cultural Arts Coalition which has been instrumental in bringing Old Town Hall back to life. In doing so they have provided residents with wonderful theatrical and artistic entertainment.

As a town, Southeast offers great recreational opportunities for families, children and seniors. Our hub during the summer months is serene Lake Tonetta where you can swim, kayak or just relax. Close by (and throughout the town) we have fantastic hiking. From the Maybrook and Putnam County Rail Trail to the Diverting Reservoir trail just a stone’s throw from the Village of Brewster.

Southeast residents experience small town ambiance with the benefit of great shopping, dining and excellent schools. Southeast is truly a town for all seasons!

Sincerely,

Nick Durante
Town of Southeast Supervisor

Town of Southeast

1360 Route 22 Brewster,
New York 10509
Tel. (845) 279-5345
[email protected]

BREWSTER MAYOR

An Update on the Urban Renewal Project in the Village of Brewster

There have been huge changes to the Village of Brewster over the last decade and there are still more to come. The Planning Board has reviewed many projects that have changed the streetscapes on North Main Street and Main Street and the reopening of Norms, now the General Bake Shop, has breathed new life into Route 22. The first phase of the Urban Renewal Project will be the backdrop for the Brewster Fall Festival, the Pride Parade, and the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. There will be artist lofts where people can show off their craft and an updated restaurant space for your new favorite lunch spot.

National Resources has already begun acquiring buildings in the first phase and will begin demolition in 2025 to pave the way for the Village’s future. The Urban Renewal Plan is dedicated to keeping the timeless buildings in the Village untouched to serve as historic landmarks of what our Village was founded on. That means the Village Library with its new addition will remain in place, as well as the Walter Brewster House, Old Town Hall, the Train Station, and 1 Main Street will bear witness to the upcoming changes to be made around them.

One of the biggest perks that comes with the first phase of the Urban Renewal Project is the plan to have a parking garage that will be accessible to the public. The new garage will have enough parking for the apartment building, commuter parking, and those taking a day trip to visit local shops.

The best part about the Urban Renewal Project is that it will be bringing the Village and surrounding community closer together and this is only step one. Once the project is done there will be room for new residents to welcome into our community, new and old restaurants, and shops to purchase our goods at and it will be a beautiful centerpiece for our section of Putnam County.

Mayor James Schoenig

Village of Brewster

Next Level Leaders Luncheon

Brewster Chamber Celebrates Local Leaders at Next Level Luncheon

On December 7th, the Brewster Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Next Level Leaders Luncheon, recognizing outstanding members of the local business community. The scenic location, graciously provided by The Town of Southeast at Lakeview Manor, featured a delectable menu prepared by Aversano’s Restaurant.

In attendance was Town Supervisor, Nick Durante, who joined the Chamber in honoring three exceptional individuals:

• Business Person of the Year: Bob Ocskasy of Brewster Glass Shop

• Community Leader: Dennis Cohen of Photos by Cohen

• Rising Professional: Aleksandra Kucharska of Striking101 Brewster

Last year’s honorees, Martha Elder of Second Chance Foods and Katherine Wonder of Sunset Bridge Consulting, presented their esteemed colleagues with their awards. The luncheon was a joyous occasion, with chamber members, family, friends and staff in attendance to celebrate the well-deserved recognition.

The Brewster Chamber Board carefully selects honorees from nominations submitted by both Chamber members and the general public.

Business Person of the Year

Robert Ocskasy

Local Business Owner, Bob Ocskasy, Honored as “Business Person of the Year”

Bob Ocskasy, owner of Brewster Glass Shop, was recently recognized as the “Business Person of the Year” at the Brewster Chamber of Commerce’s Next Level Leaders Luncheon in December 2024.

“For over 50 years, Bob Ocskasy has been a pillar of the Brewster business community. His dedication to his craft, coupled with his active involvement in the Chamber of Commerce, demonstrates a lifetime of commitment that makes him a most worthy recipient of this prestigious award,” noted former Brewster Chamber president, Kate Corsitto. “Bob exemplifies the true spirit of a successful business owner.”

Even before graduating from Carmel High School, Bob demonstrated an impressive work ethic. At the age of 15, he began his career in the glass industry, a path that has led him to become a successful and respected business owner.

Brewster Glass Shop offers a variety of residential and commercial services including windows, doors, glass and mirrors. The shop is known for its quick turnaround time, fully licensed and insured staff, and kind and courteous service.

Reflecting on his 50 years in the glass business, Bob has often described it as “a labor of love and a great life.” This sentiment continues to resonate today, as he remains dedicated to providing personalized service to every customer.

A long-time member of the Brewster Chamber of Commerce, Bob also served on the Board of Directors for 10 years, actively contributing to the growth and success of the local business community.

Brewster Chamber is proud to celebrate Bob’s success and leadership in our community.

Community Leader

Dennis Cohen

Dedicated resident and passionate volunteer based in Brewster, Dennis Cohen was recently honored with the prestigious “Community Leader” award at the Brewster Chamber of Commerce’s Next Level Leaders Luncheon in December 2024.

Deeply committed to his community, Dennis has made it his mission to give back and foster positive change, particularly for the younger generation.

Over the years, Dennis has served on the executive boards of multiple local non-profit organizations, including Brewster F.C. (soccer), the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Putnam County and the Community Engagement and Police Advisory Board (CEPAB) of Putnam County. Through these roles, he has played a vital part in shaping programs that enhance community engagement, youth development and collaboration between residents and local authorities.

In addition to his volunteer work, Dennis contributes professionally as a local Realtor and photographer (Photos by Cohen), providing services to Brewster and its surrounding towns and cities. His dual careers allow him to connect with a diverse range of individuals and families, further deepening his ties to the area he proudly calls home.

Since his youth, Dennis has been inspired by the principle of giving back, a value instilled in him early on. Moving to Brewster only strengthened this commitment, fueling his dedication to improving the community and creating a brighter future for its residents. He holds a special passion for working with youth, believing that they are the foundation of any thriving community. “The youth are the future,” Dennis says, “and it’s important to inspire them and give them someone to look up to.”

This philosophy is rooted in one of the core tenets of his fraternity: “being a role model in the school and community.” For Dennis, this isn’t just a guiding principle but a daily practice. Through his actions, leadership and vision, he strives to be a source of inspiration and a catalyst for positive change in Brewster and beyond.

Whether through his volunteer efforts, professional work or personal connections, Cohen exemplifies the spirit of community and service. His commitment to fostering growth and unity makes him a valued and respected leader in Putnam County.

Rising Professional

Aleksandra Kucharska

Aleksandra Kucharska, head coach of Striking 101 Brewster, was recently honored with the prestigious “Rising Professional” award at the Brewster Chamber of Commerce’s Next Level Leaders Luncheon in December 2024.

Born in Poland, Kucharska’s journey began in Italy where she pursued a career in hospitality. After relocating to the USA, she discovered her passion for martial arts, training in boxing and eventually joining Striking 101.

A highly accomplished athlete, Kucharska has achieved numerous accolades, including WAKO (World Association of Kickboxing Organizations) silver medalist in 2019 and gold medalist and National Kickboxing Champion in 2021, and earned WAKO and WKA (World Kickboxing & Karate Association) silver medals in both Kickboxing and Muay Thai in 2022. She earned her black belt and founded the Striking 101 Brewster location in 2022 under Sensei Jonathan Ruiz.

The gym offers a diverse range of classes for children, women and men of all ages and experience levels, including boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai and strength and conditioning. They also host self-defense seminars and children’s programs, fostering a strong sense of community.

Beyond her professional success, Kucharska is known for her dedication to others. Her leadership, integrity and commitment to making a positive impact have earned her the respect and admiration of her peers and the Brewster community.

DEMOGRAPHICS

Village of Brewster

Population estimate (2024)

2,648

Median household income

$55,818

Age

0-9 11%

10-19 10%

20-29 17%

30-39 19%

40-49 15%

Over 50 28%

Race

White
44.53%

Other
50.32%

Black or African American
2.39%

Two Races
1.92%

Asian
0.84%

Housing

Owner-occupied
housing unit rate

20.7%

Median value of owner-occupied housing units

$351,800

Crime

With a crime rate for both violent and property crime combined of 6 per 1,000 residents, the crime rate in Brewster is one of the lower rates in America among communities of all sizes (lower than 63% of America's communities). One's chance of becoming a victim of crime in Brewster is one in 167. Source: NeighborhoodScout

Town of Southeast, Putnam County, New York

Population estimate July 1, 2023

18,199

Median household income
(in 2022 dollars) 2018-2022

$110,183

Age

Under 5 years 4.4%

Under 18 years 20.1%

65 years and older 18.8%

Race

White
74.3%

Hispanic or Latino
25%

Asian
3.7%

Black or African American
2.8%

Housing

Owner-occupied housing unit rate (2018-2022)

79.2%

Median value of owner-occupied housing units (2018-2022)

$389,200

Crime

The rate of crime in Putnam County is 6.822 per 1,000 residents during a standard year. People who live in Putnam County generally consider the southwest part of the county to be the safest. Your chance of being a victim of crime in Putnam County may be as high as 1 in 106 in the east neighborhoods, or as low as 1 in 200 in the southwest part of the county. Source: Crimegrade.org

Sources: Data USA, Census Reporter, Neilsberg Research, U.S. Census, World Population Review

TOURISM

Nestled between the Hudson River and the Connecticut state line, Putnam County offers an abundance of adventures and experiences to suit every lifestyle. From hiking and boating to dining and shopping, Putnam is a small but mighty treasure trove of crystal lakes, beautiful hiking trails, historic sites, art and cultural experiences and quaint restaurants and shops. With five Metro-North stops, we are just an hour away from Manhattan, making day trips hassle-free and a truly easy getaway.

Contact: Tara Keegan, Director of Tourism
(845) 808-1015
https://www.putnamcountyny.gov/tourism

Here are some places to see and adventures to have that are located in the Brewster/Southeast area:

I. Attractions

• Liberty Paintball
629 Route 311, Patterson, NY
Liberty Paintball

The #1 paintball field in New York for a variety of exciting experiences! Liberty Paintball is located just over an hour from New York City and spans 150 acres of diverse terrain.

• Thunder Ridge
137 Birch Hill Road, Patterson, NY
Home - Thunder Ridge Ski Area

Located in the rolling hills of Patterson, New York, Thunder Ridge Ski Area is just 60 minutes north of NYC! With 22 trails, 3 chairlifts and 4 magic carpets, Thunder Ridge has slow and gentle slopes to meet the needs of the newest skiers and snowboarders and advanced trails for the daring and adventurous!

• Brewster Ice Arena
63 Fields Lane, Brewster, NY
Brewster Ice Arena - Skating, Sports, Hockey

Serving the hockey and skating community for over 23 years, the Brewster Ice Arena is the Hudson Valley’s premier sports and entertainment venue!

This large facility features 2 full ice-skating rinks, studio rink, as well as a full restaurant & bar.

• Green Chimney’s Farm & Wildlife Center
400 Doansburg Road, Brewster, NY
Visit the Farm - Green Chimneys

The Sam and Myra Ross Farm & Wildlife Center at Green Chimney’s Brewster campus is a popular attraction for families and animal lovers alike.

The Farm & Wildlife Center is open to the public, free of charge. Take a stroll through their barns, paddocks and wildlife area at your own pace.

Green Chimneys is home to over 300 animals and birds, from the familiar to the exotic to the endangered.

• Southeast Museum
67 Main Street, Brewster NY
Explore the rich history of our museum (southeastmuseum.org)

Located approximately 60 miles north of New York City, the village of Brewster is conveniently accessible by car or the Harlem Line of Metro North Railroad. Discover the fascinating history and artistry of our collection at Southeast Museum. We offer a unique cultural experience for all visitors. Explore our galleries, attend our events and learn more about the stories behind each piece. We invite you to join us on a journey through time and explore the rich history of Brewster, Southeast, and Putnam County, New York.

• Tilly Foster Farm
100 Route 312, Brewster, NY
Tilly Foster Farm | Putnam County, New York (putnamcountyny.gov)

Since the 19th Century, historic Tilly Foster Farm has served as a beacon for Putnam County’s rich farming heritage, fertile landscapes and natural beauty.

• Salinger’s Orchard
230 Guinea Road, Brewster, NY
Salinger’s Orchard (salingersorchards.com)

The farmland that constitutes Salinger’s Orchard has been in the family since 1901. Take a trip to the Brewster farm to explore a selection of fresh produce this season, along with home-baked goods like pies, donuts, jams and more.

• Lobster Hill Farm
300 Foggintown Road, Brewster, NY
Home - Lobster Hill Farm

A first generation regenerative farm on 75 acres in Brewster, NY. Focusing mainly on dairy goats and pastured poultry for meat and eggs with plans to expand that livestock to include meat goats, pigs, sheep and a dairy cow.

• Ridge Ranch
276 Quaker Road, Patterson NY
Ridge Ranch (ridgeranchny.com)

Tour the farm grounds and meet all the amazing farm animals; miniature donkeys, goats, chickens, highland cows and more. They offer many unique experiences such as goat yoga, paint night and a kissing booth with the animals.

• Vails Grove Golf Course
230 Peach Lake Rd, Brewster, NY
Number of holes: 9

• Centennial Golf Club
185 John Simpson Road Carmel, NY
Number of holes: 27
Home - Centennial Golf Club of NY

• Putnam County Trailway
Bike Path from Brewster to Mahopac
Putnam County Trailway | Putnam County, New York (putnamcountyny.gov)

A nine-mile stretch of the Empire State Trail, the Putnam County Trailway travels from Brewster to Mahopac and provides magnificent water views of the Middle Branch Reservoir, Lake Gleneida and Lake Mahopac.

• Patterson Clough Preserve
166 Farm to Market Road, Brewster, NY
William Clough Preserve – Adventures Around Putnam

• Michael Ciaiola Conservation Area
480 Haviland Hollow Rd, Patterson, NY
Michael Ciaiola Conservation Area | Putnam County, New York (putnamcountyny.com)

This conservation area consists of over 800 acres and is Putnam County’s largest. The property was once owned by Walter G. Merritt. It was previously known as Merritt Park and consisted of around 600 acres. Explore this 5.7-mile loop trail near Patterson, New York. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 3 hours and 7 minutes to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, snowshoeing and running.

• Castle Park
140 Pumphouse Road Brewster, NY
Parks | Southeast, NY (southeast-ny.gov)

Castle Park is in the Town of Southeast. It is a great place to spend the day with kids. Go down the slide and swing on the set. There is a basketball court and tennis court. Go biking on the Empire Trail or cool down and take a dip in Tonetta Lake.

II. Places to Stay

• Comfort Inn
7-11 Peach Lake Road, Brewster, NY
Hotel in Brewster, NY | Comfort Inn® Official Site | Comfort Inn (choicehotels.com)

At the Comfort Inn® in Brewster, NY, you can find everything you need to enjoy a great night’s rest and then some. They offer a free hot breakfast with free coffee and newspaper so you can start off the morning with a full stomach, and a fitness center so you can work off those extra vacation calories or keep your workout routine going even while you travel.

• Heidi’s Inn
1270 Route 22, Brewster, NY
Heidi’s Inn, Brewster, NY (heidisinn.com)

Stationed on several acres of landscaped countryside, Heidi’s Inn located in Brewster, NY, is just a 5 minutes’ drive from the Brewster Train Station. Wi-Fi access is provided free of charge.

THE HISTORY OF BREWSTER VILLAGE AND TOWN OF SOUTHEAST

By Jack Alcott, Southeast, NY Historian

Brewster village and the Town of Southeast have colorful histories going back to Colonial times and The Revolutionary War, when teenager Jedidiah Wood carried wounded militiamen by oxcart from his farm to a field hospital in Danbury.

Settlers began arriving in Southeast in the early 1700s, and dozens joined the fight for independence in 1776. Those patriots’ names – like Ryder, Bailey, Gage, Fowler, Crosby, Sears – from hamlets like Southeast Centre, Milltown, Foggintown and Doansburg, are embedded in the town’s memory and landscape.

Southeast was also there at the birth of the Industrial Revolution when 26-year-old entrepreneur Walter Brewster lured the railroad to a readymade train station he built in the shadow of Marvin Mountain. His gamble paid off and an iron horse first chugged into “Brewster’s Station” in 1849.

A boomtown soon rose around the station, and commerce thrived. The village in those days was truly the Hub of the Harlem Valley, and its streets teemed with all manner of folk -- railroad men, iron miners, circus performers, cattle drovers, dairy farmers and factory workers -- who all helped turn it into the hustling, bustling town center.

Also sharing those busy streets were the wildly entertaining circus men and their animals, including lions, tigers, elephants and monkeys kept on Turk Hill and Starr Ridge.

Southeast Centre is arguably the 1825 birthplace of the great American circus, when Nathan Howes erected the first Big Top. His kid brother Seth B. Howes --“Father of the American Circus” -- would go on to run P.T. Barnum’s Great London Circus in the 1850s. Seth’s towering Morningthorpe castle on Turk Hill stands as a monument to Brewster’s pioneering show business history.

Former circus clown, and later Wall Street robber baron, Daniel Drew made and lost his Gilded Age fortune to Cornelius Vanderbilt, but not before building Drewsclift Castle at Deans Corner here in 1874.

Dairy farmers and cattlemen also found new wealth as the railroad made it possible to send their milk down to the lucrative New York City market. Inventor Gail Borden chose Brewster for his Borden’s Condensed Milk Factory in 1864 on the banks of the Croton River.

Meanwhile, iron and steel were needed to build the new machine age and veins of magnetic ore under Brewster streets and out at Tilly Foster were mined starting in the 1860s. But that era came crashing down in 1895 when a rockfall -- “The Tilly Foster Horror” -- crushed 13 miners in the enormous pit.

Flash forward to the Jazz Age, when Brewster’s Drewsclift castle was then home to music mogul Max Dreyfus and parties with luminaries such as George Gershwin, who banged out “Rhapsody in Blue” on the piano in its ballroom.

Southeast was officially born in 1788; Brewster village in 1894. Both have seen historic changes over the decades -- but the post-war era of suburban growth on farmland outside the village transformed the town.

Today, Hispanic-owned businesses are thriving along Main Street, as local leaders continue to work toward downtown revitalization. Meanwhile, new companies and businesses are choosing to make Southeast their home-- a testament to the town’s continued growth and economic health.

Southeast Museum
67 Main Street, Brewster, NY 10509
(845) 279-7500
https://southeastmuseum.org/

We are open to the public Wednesday - Saturdays from June 1st through December 1st.

Contact us if you would like to schedule an appointment outside of our normal visiting hours - Wednesday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

The Historic Hub of the Hudson Valley Established in 1963, the Southeast Museum offers exhibits on the history of the Town of Southeast, including the early American Circus, the Harlem Line Railroad, the Tilly Foster Mine, the Borden Milk Condensery, and the Croton Reservoir System.

In addition, the museum presents various changing exhibits, drawing on its extensive collection of antique farm and household implements, quilts, clothing and assorted Americana reflecting 19th century material culture. The museum is located on Main Street, Brewster in one of Putnam County’s largest land marked buildings, the 1896 Old Town Hall, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Doing Business in Brewster & Southeast: A Strategic Advantage

Located in Putnam County, NY, Brewster offers a compelling environment for businesses to thrive.

Strategic Location & Connectivity: Brewster’s proximity to major transportation routes, including Interstate 84 and the Metro-North Railroad, provides excellent access to regional markets. This strategic location facilitates efficient logistics and broadens the reach of businesses.

A Thriving Local Economy: Brewster boasts a diverse economy with a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants and other businesses. This active commercial landscape fosters entrepreneurship and creates opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Strong Business Support: The Brewster Chamber of Commerce plays a crucial role in supporting local businesses. Members benefit from valuable networking opportunities, access to resources and a platform to advocate for their interests within the community.

High Quality of Life: Brewster offers a desirable quality of life with its picturesque surroundings and close-knit community. This appealing environment attracts and retains talent, creating a positive and productive work environment.

A Growing Customer Base: Brewster has experienced a recent surge in both population and small business growth. This dynamic environment creates a robust and expanding market for businesses to tap into, providing significant opportunities for growth and success.

Note: These advantages are general in nature. Conducting thorough research and analysis is crucial to determine how these factors specifically align with your business goals and objectives. If you’re looking to move to or grow your business in the Town of Southeast or Brewster Village, there are diverse support systems that can help you:

Putnam County Economic Development Corporation (PCEDC) is the one-stop shop for companies considering relocating to or expanding in Putnam County. www.PutnamEDC.org

County of Putnam Industrial Development Agency (IDA) provides incentives for private sector business investments and job creation resulting in economic growth and improved quality of life. www.PutnamIDA.com

Putnam County Tourism promotes all the beauty and enjoyment of Putnam County, NY as a great place to live, work, stay and play. www.putnamcountyny.gov/tourism-home/

SCORE Putnam County is a non-profit organization offering free business advice, no-cost business training through webinars and workshops, and numerous templates and tools to assist you in your journey to open your new business or grow your existing one. www.score.org/putnam

Brewster Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching business, community and industrial growth and development in Brewster and Southeast. Its membership includes business and professional entities serving the local community. www.BrewsterChamber.com

The Putnam County Economic Development Corporation (PCEDC) is the one-stop shop for companies considering relocating to, or expanding in, Putnam County.

The mission of the Putnam County Economic Development Corporation (PCEDC) is to promote the economic vitality of Putnam County, to retain and grow existing businesses, attract new businesses, broaden the County’s tax base and increase employment opportunities for County residents. The PCEDC acts as a facilitator, bringing together businesses, government agencies and other stakeholders. It is a 501(c)(6) Public-Private Corporation formed in 1996 to promote the economic vitality of Putnam County.

Contact:
Kathleen Abels, President
(845) 808-1021
[email protected]
https://putnamedc.org/

Education

Brewster offers a range of educational opportunities for residents of all ages.
Here’s a summary:

• Public Schools: The Brewster Central School District serves the community with a comprehensive system including:

• Elementary School: JFK Elementary School (Pre-K – Grade 2)

• Intermediate School: C.V. Starr Intermediate School (Grades 3-5)

• Middle School: H.H. Wells Middle School (Grades 6-8)

• High School: Brewster High School
(Grades 9-12)

• Private Schools:

• Longview School: Located in the Village of Brewster, NY

• Green Chimneys: Day and Residential Students, Grades 2-12 in the Town of Southeast

Green Chimneys is a multi-faceted non-profit organization that plays a vital role in helping young people overcome challenges and reach their full potential.

They offer therapeutic education through an innovative program incorporating academic, behavioral and emotional support in a comprehensive learning environment to help each child achieve new skills and confidence, and return to their home school district with the best chance of success via day and residential programs.

Green Chimneys is part of the surrounding community. From preschool programs to summer camp to outdoor adventures for school groups, Green Chimneys offers valuable education and recreation experiences, along with exciting public events, for all ages.

Longview School is a non-profit, private school located in the Village of Brewster. Longview School is known for its smaller class sizes and low student-teacher ratio, allowing for more personalized attention. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans to cater to the unique needs of each student. Real-world experiences are incorporated into the curriculum, such as internships and community projects and Longview School places a strong emphasis on social-emotional development alongside academics.

Ambassador Highlight

Brian Berkson

Brewster Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Program

The Brewster Chamber of Commerce has maintained an active Ambassador Program since 2019, evolving from its initial role as a “Welcome Committee” for new members.

Today, Ambassadors serve as key connectors within the Chamber community. They welcome new members, provide valuable assistance and information on Chamber resources, and actively engage in outreach to potential new members.

Brian Berkson of Ives Bank leads the 2025 Ambassador Program. A relatively new Brewster Chamber Member but a natural networker, Brian enjoys connecting with fellow Chamber members and fostering a welcoming environment.

Benefits for Members:

• Increased access to support and guidance from fellow members.

• Enhanced networking opportunities within the Chamber.

• Increased potential for referrals and business growth.

Benefits for Ambassadors:

• Enhanced name and face recognition within the community.

• Expanded networking opportunities with both new and existing members.

• Insider’s perspective on the local business landscape.

• Opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of the Chamber.

• Fulfilling the role of a community leader and contributing to local pride.

Interested in becoming a Brewster Chamber Ambassador?

Contact Brian Berkson to learn more about this rewarding opportunity:

Brian Berkson
Assistant Vice President
Community Development Manager
Ives Bank
100 Route 37
New Fairfield, CT 06812

o. (203) 746-7990
c. (475) 0252
[email protected]

Meet the Board

President
Candice Sciarrillo
(Pegasus Therapeutic Riding)

Vice President
Gina Gioielli
(M&T Bank Brewster)

Secretary
Amy Galiano
(CoveCare Center)

Treasurer
Rovena Ruci
(SAEL Accounting & Bookkeeping)

Director
Brian Bonifacio
(StackNStor Patterson)

Director
Kate Corsitto
(American Cancer Society)

Director
Dawn Ruggiero
(Saranac Tax Services)

Director
(Open Position)

Director
Katherine Wonder
(Sunset Bridge Consulting)

Executive Director
Paula Hernandez

Important Contacts

Brewster Central School District

https://www.brewsterschools.org/

845-279-8000

Brewster Elks Lodge 2101

https://brewsterelks.org/

845-279-3261

Brewster Fire Department (Main Street, Brewster)

https://www.brewsterfiredepartment.org/

845-279-3555

Brewster Lions Club

https://e-clubhouse.org/sites/brewsterny/

Brewster Public Library

https://brewsterlibrary.org/

845-279-6421

Brewster-Southeast Joint Fire District

https://www.brewstersoutheastjfd.com/

845-279-9229

Brewter Rotary Club

https://portal.clubrunner.ca/2206

Comcast Business

https://business.comcast.com/

844-769-3862

Metro North Railroad

https://www.mta.info/agency/metro-north-railroad

New York State Police (Troop K, Brewster)

https://troopers.ny.gov/location/troop-k

845-298-0398

NYSEG

https://www.nyseg.com/

800-572-1111

Putnam Area Rapit Transit (PART) & PART Paratransit

https://www.putnamcountyny.gov/transportation/

845-878-RIDE (7433)

Putnam County Department of Motor Vehicles

https://www.putnamcountyny.gov/dmv

845-278-2838

Putnam County Humane Society

845-225-7777

Putnam County Offices

https://www.putnamcountyny.gov/

845-808-1000

Putnam County Sherriff’s Office

https://putnamsheriff.com/

845-808-4321

Putnam County SPCA

https://spcaputnam.org/

845-520-6915

Putnam Hospital

https://www.nuvancehealth.org/locations/putnam-hospital

845-279-5711

Southeast Museum

https://southeastmuseum.org/

845-279-7500

Town of Southeast

https://www.southeast-ny.gov/

845-279-4313

Town of Southeast Court

https://www.southeast-ny.gov/187/Justice-Court

845-279-8939

Verizon Fios

https://www.verizon.com/home/internet/

1-833-VERIZON

VFW Brewster Post 672

https://www.vfwpost672.org/

845-279-6969

Village of Brewster

https://brewstervillage-ny.gov/

845-279-3760

Village of Brewster Court

https://brewstervillage-ny.gov/index.php/government/village-court

845-279-4020

Village of Brewster Police Department

https://brewstervillage-ny.gov/index.php/government/brewster-police-department

914-804-8442 | 845-278-1895

Xfinity - Residential

https://www.xfinity.com/local/ct/danbury/15-backus-avenue.html

FOR ALL EMERGENCIES CALL 911