CPI Has Big Plans for Cobleskill

By Matthew Avitabile

COBLESKILL - Cobleskill Partnership, Inc. has big plans for Cobleskill in recent years, building on its track record of success. New President Bruce Tryon spoke to us Friday about a number of programs the organization plans to improve and create. Tryon came into the role after eight years of the leadership of former President Lucas Fiedler.

Tryon said that he had two main goals for the organization in the new year. He hopes to expand membership in CPI, including increasing visibility. Part of the plan is to expand CPI's reach outside of the village of Cobleskill. He said that there was a chance to build relationships with businesses in the wider community.

He said that the second goal was strategic planning, including a "very comprehensive" review of "what CPI is and what we want to do." This includes surveying businesses and industry. There are multiple meetings and planning significant projects.

Tryon plans to use his fourteen years of experience alongside the volunteers in the organization.

In particular, he cited the $100,000 Lee Hodge Grant from Sterling Insurance entering into its second year of distribution. Numerous projects have benefitted from the program, including $1,500 for the Community Library (discussed more in a related article), and $2,500 for Rural Preservation. Other grantees include Ludwig Chiropractic, the Cobleskill Fire Department Kitchen, the Mallery Law Center, and a retaining wall outside Kevin's Barbershop. Residents can also apply for various projects, including for painting. The Library sign has been a particular support, he said. He cited the efforts of Library Director Kim Zimmer as part of the "success."

"The money's there," he said.

CPI has been working hard to coordinate logistics. Tryon added that he has confidence in the organization to administer and expand the grant project.

He said that the "process itself is so easy." Those interested in learning more about it can reach out to him at btryon1@nycap.rr.com. Businesses and local organizations are welcome to take part.

Tryon said that Sterling has been a "great partner for Cobleskill." It has aided in numerous projects for the community for many years.

CPI has expanded its community events and programs, including the Soup Stroll, Arts in the Park, Small Business Saturday, the annual parade, and more.

The group is always looking for volunteers from inside and outside the business community. This would be an opportunity to help with many of the events CPI is involved with. The annual meeting of the organization will be Jan. 22 Cobleskill FD meetings room at 6:30 pm. Regular meetings are the second Thursday of the month and are open to the public. They are often at Sterling's board room but rotate between different businesses. He thanked Sterling for their friendship to the organization.

There's high hopes for potential new events in the new year, including a new potential project being worked on by the Bull's Head's Chris and Mary Guldner. The idea will be introduced at the Jan. 22nd meeting. The group also plans to build a video to share the positives about the group and Cobleskill to encourage more members and volunteers.

The year is set to be a success, Tryon said.