Mark Lane | President @ William H. Lane Incorporated
Lives in: BINGHAMTON, NY | Hometown: BINGHAMTON, NY
Why did you choose to live/work in Broome County
Broome County is a great place to live, work and raise a family. There is tremendous talent and opportunity here.
How have you found your professional experience here?
My father started the company in 1967 with extensive experience in the industry. We have built strong relationships and have been able to grow the business locally and regionally, and are now poised for a third generation. We are proud to be a local employer and furnish the full spectrum of construction services to our clients enabling them to successfully further their business goals by constantly applying the values upon which our company was founded.
How has your personal life benefited from living/working here?
I get to go home within a 5 minute drive from downtown Binghamton and be with my family, ride my bike, walk my dog, and just enjoy a health relaxing life. I also love being able to go downtown and grab a drink and hang out with my friends.
What are the benefits of living in Broome county?
We have an excellent educational system in the area from primary school to higher education at SUNY Broome Community College and Binghamton University. This is an economically feasible area to reside in, with reasonable property values and a fair cost of living. Binghamton is in a rather central location in New York with most larger east coast cities easily reachable within a few hours' drive. The area showcases all four seasons and allows for a variety of sports; we even host a major sporting event each summer: The Dick's Sporting Goods Open, which is an event that our company has sponsored every year since it began in 1971 as the BC Open, and the event generously gives back to our community through local charities. Binghamton is also a good cultural center with strong involvement in the arts and culinary experiences: we have many exceptional local restaurants, pubs, breweries, coffee roasters, and a growing farmers market; we are currently the construction manager for the renovation of the historic Carnegie Library into the new SUNY Broome Hospitality Center - it will include production kitchens and educational spaces to further the culinary and hospitality industries in this area and beyond.
How would you recommend Broome County to someone looking to relocate?
Broome County is full of opportunity and history. It is a great place to raise a family and there is a strong sense of community.
Lives in: BINGHAMTON, NY | Works in: BINGHAMTON, NY
How have you found your professional experience here?
Family isn’t just the word that describes the owners of SERVPRO - it describes the culture that’s an integral part of this Broome-based company as well.
Driven by a deep desire to “be able to employ a lot of people and create an environment where [his] employees enjoyed their work,” Lou Sepe founded this local company, with 3 franchises, that specializes in residential and commercial restoration cleaning services, in 1979.
How has your personal life benefited from living/working here?
This open, familial culture at SERVPRO manifests itself in a variety of ways - from company events like ‘Breakfast with Santa’ offered for employees and their families, evenings spent watching baseball games at the Binghamton Rumble Ponies stadium, birthday celebrations, as well as ample vacation time, various employee benefits packages, a ‘Learn to Earn’ program and much more.
What are the benefits of living in Broome county?
Great hospitals and healthcare
Great education and schools
Variety of activities for young and old
Beautiful landscape: lakes, rivers, rolling hills
How would you recommend Broome County to someone looking to relocate?
It’s exciting to see what the future holds for all of us here and for all of them as well. Broome County is a great place to live - it was a great place to grow up and is a great place to raise a family. A good life means to live, to love and to believe in a dream. I can do all of that in a place that I’m comfortable and that I can enjoy a quality of life with all the things I would like to accomplish - that can be done in the community that we live in.
Brittany Hall | Executive Director @ Binghamton Philharmonic
Lives in: BINGHAMTON, NY | Works In: BINGHAMTON, NY
How have you found your professional experience here?
I moved to the West side of Binghamton in May 2014. While I wasn’t born or raised in Broome County, working and living here the last few years as Executive Director for the Binghamton Philharmonic has been very rewarding.
How has your personal life benefited from living/working here?
The arts community here--as well as the community at large--is just so welcoming, especially to new-comers. I moved away from family to take this position, so having my work family and the friends I’ve made living here be my pseudo-family has just made my life better.
What are the benefits of living in Broome county?
Experience all 4 beautiful seasons
Amazing landscape, rolling hills
Easy drive to other areas: Ithaca, NYC, Adirondaks
Lively art scene
Wonderful local restaurants
Tight-knit community feel
Low living costs
How would you recommend Broome County to someone looking to relocate?
No one can really tell you what a piece of music is about--it’s all about that feeling you have when you listen. That’s almost how I feel about Broome County. It’s this wonderful, warm feeling that you know you’re in the right spot.
Daniel R. Norton | Attorney @ Hinman, Howard & Kattell, LLP
Lives in: ENDWELL, NY | Hometown: ENDWELL, NY
Why did you choose to live/work in Broome County?
I live in Broome County because it offers the unique opportunity to balance a challenging and rewarding career with a fulfilling personal life. I spend my weekdays working with, and learning from, professionals of the highest caliber. At night and on the weekends, I am able to spend quality time with both family and friends.
How have you found your professional experience here?
When it comes to growth opportunities, Broome County has so much to offer a young professional. I interact directly with all of my clients and help them work toward meaningful outcomes in consequential matters. I am able to learn something new, which benefits both me and my clients. Best of all, however, is that I work for an employer that cares about me both as a professional and as a person. My superiors offer me the opportunity to grow in my career but at the same time, they encourage me to pursue volunteer opportunities in the community.
How has your personal life benefited from living/working here?
The happiness I’ve found in my professional life is mirrored in my personal life. I met my brilliant and talented wife, Colleen, here in Broome County. Because my career does not consume every waking moment of my life, we are able to pursue our mutual interests, share meaningful time together like regularly being with our family and friends, while still having time to do the things that we enjoy—such as running and dining out. Also, we are confident that our daughters will develop the knowledge needed to find success and happiness in their lives here, just as we found it in our lives.
Lives in: BINGHAMTON, NY | Works in: BINGHAMTON, NY
How have you found your professional experience here?
Working in the banking industry has allowed me to interact regularly with people I’ve known all my life, and to meet new people in our community. I’ve been able to use these relationships and my knowledge of our area’s history to benefit both our clients and my employer. I feel it’s important that I give back to the community that has given me so much, which is exactly what my job allows me to do.
How has your personal life benefited from living/working here?
Broome County has made it possible to raise our children in a safe and healthy environment, where they excelled. My family and I have been able to take advantage of opportunities to participate in all types of sports, music and the arts, as well as attending professional sporting events and musical performances. We also enjoy the convenient access to the Finger Lakes, Thousand Islands and New York City.
What are the benefits of living in Broome county?
Great schools and education
Wonderful place to raise a family
A little something for everyone: sports, music, and arts
Convenient location with access to the Finger Lakes, Thousand Islands, and New York City
Experience all four seasons
How would you recommend Broome County to someone looking to relocate?
What I love most is that Broome County has something to offer everyone. Well performing schools and countless youth organizations, The Rumble Ponies Baseball, Devils Hockey, Bearcat games, Dick’s Open Golf, LGT Tennis Challenge – the list goes on and on. We also have amazing cultural resources like the Binghamton Philharmonic, Tri-Cities Opera, Broadway Theatre League, Roberson Science Center and Kopernik Observatory. You can truly enjoy all four seasons here in Broome. Who could ask for more?
Aisha Jasper | community development liaison at Visions Federal Credit Union
Lives in: BINGHAMTON, NY | Works in: BINGHAMTON, NY
How have you found your professional experience here?
I have had the experience living in many different areas of the world, traveling for my dance career, as well as attending different Universities across the states and overseas. I returned to Broome County because this is home. Working as the BEAM Outreach Coordinator has given me an opportunity help people each and every day in a community that I love.
How has your personal life benefited from living/working here?
Being in Broome, I am surrounded by my family, friends, and many others who have invested their time and energy into helping me as a dancer, student, and a person. This community has allowed me to create a fulfilling and rewarding career, as well as build a happy, comfortable--albeit simple--personal life.
What are the benefits of living in Broome county?
Very helpful and supportive community
There are many things to do both young and old
Beautiful scenery, rivers, lakes, parks.
Growing town with a lot of opportunities
Many ways to get involved
How would you recommend Broome County to someone looking to relocate?
This area is what you make of it. There’s so much to do, see and get involved in--from the beautiful, colorful scenery to different social/civic activities and more.
Lives in: CASTLE CREEK, NY | Works in: BINGHAMTON, NY
How have you found your professional experience here?
Growing up I never wanted an office job. I only wanted to be out on teh road and drive trucks. Maines allowed me to do just that.
How has your personal life benefited from living/working here?
My whole family is all right here. My wife and I both grew up in Broome County and have been able to watch our children grow up here too, all while creating good lives for ourselves and those we care about. My life in Broome County has been marked by my career, but also by the enjoyable, good life I’ve had here surrounded by friends and family. We live out on a calm and beautiful 75-acre property in Castle Creek where I always feel safe. In my free time, I like to hunt right on my property and fish both in and outside of Broome.
What are the benefits of living in Broome county?
Peaceful scenery, farms, lakes, and rivers
Many wonderful restaurants
Best of both worlds: quiet country life if you would like it, but also bustle of city is available
Great place to raise a family
Many great careers available
How would you recommend Broome County to someone looking to relocate?
There is a little something for everyone here in Broome County. You can have a quiet home while only being minutes from big city. Many outdoor activities, great jobs, and awesome restaurants!
Michael Dundon | Organizer @ New York State Laborers Organizing Fund (NYSLOF) / Member - Laborers Local 785 which are both part of the Laborers International Union of North America (LIUNA)
Lives in: BINGHAMTON, NY | Works in: BINGHAMTON, NY
How have you found your professional experience here?
Working for the Laborers Local 785 has given me the opportunity to live the life I always imagined. It has provided me the comfort to raise a family in the community I have always loved.
How has your personal life benefited from living/working here?
Outside of work I spend time with my family and give back to the community that gave me so much. I believe in paying it forward and giving back. After work, I’m really busy with coaching football and softball. I’m also creating and pushing apprenticeship programs to show kids that college is not the only way to succeed; there is a lot you can do and excel at as a tradesman. There are so many opportunities here to live, work, and be happy and I want people to experience that. I’m committed to giving back to the kids, giving them healthy recreation, allowing them not to grow up too fast—to just enjoy being kids—and helping them discover a trade they might love.
What are the benefits of living in Broome county?
Great place to raise a family
Supportive community
Trade jobs readily available
Great high schools and education
How would you recommend Broome County to someone looking to relocate?
Many trade jobs available, can live comfortably with lower housing prices, wonderful place to raise a family, many events and activities for children and adults.
Ron and Alice Kweller | Owners @ Rent Bing - Management and Development Properties
Lives in: VESTAL, NY | Works in: BINGHAMTON, NY
How have you found your professional experience here?
Moving to Binghamton in 1999 to attend Binghamton University I loved the area and really saw the potential it had. We have been able to be a part of the exciting new growth of downtown Binghamton with our property business.
How has your personal life benefited from living/working here?
I am able to enjoy life with my family while doing what I love. This is the place to be. My kids, Ariela who is a 6, and Joshua who is 9 enjoy being outdoors, playing baseball, karate, swimming and having a great time with friends, having bon fires, and just having fun. We work extremely hard, get to be part of beautifying our city, bring new food and fun experiences to our community, while still having plenty of quality time to enjoy with our family, friends, and the perfect work/life balance that Broome provides.
What are the benefits of living in Broome county?
So many opportunities for growth
Friendly community
Like minded passionate people
Many business opportunities
Great community to raise a family
Great work-life balance
How would you recommend Broome County to someone looking to relocate?
Broome is a great place to jump start your life, there are so many business and work opportunities. This is a continually growing community with so many activities for the entire family.
How have you found your professional experience here?
I have been able to open my own hair salon business doing what I love, in an area that I love! I lived in Miami for about two years working with high end clientele. This lifestyle was fast-paced and exciting at first, but after two years it was time to get back to my family-friendly loving community to raise my family. One of the things I love most about this area that lacked for me in South Beach, are the special connections that I have with my clients here, the friendliness, the loyalty…that “human aspect” that was missing for me in Miami.
How has your personal life benefited from living/working here?
Now, I feel like my life is totally complete. Having my kids happy and safe, my family and friends close by, and having a business that I love all in one area…I really couldn’t ask for more. I feel connected to this place, the generations upon generations that make this area so great, familiar, a comfort level that I don’t think I could ever find anywhere else but in Broome.
What are the benefits of living in Broome county?
Many outdoor activites
Close-knit community provides a sense of belonging
Business opportunities
Community support
Hiking, biking, and the chance to connect with nature
Great property value
How would you recommend Broome County to someone looking to relocate?
Broome is a great place to raise a family, grow your business, and feel connected to your community. There are many outdoor activities such as biking, swimming in local parks, hikes, and skiing at the nearby Greek Peak, Ski Resort.
Von Chamleunsouk | Restaurant Owner @ Thai Time
Lives in: BINGHAMTON, NY | Works in: BINGHAMTON, NY
How have you found your professional experience here?
I have been able to open two different restaurants after learning in Boston, as well as Binghamton.
How has your personal life benefited from living/working here?
At the end of the day, I get to go home to my beautiful family, only a five-minute drive, and also serve my Laotian and local community in every way I can by providing food for events, doing charity work, and really giving back to the area that has been an integral part in my growth as a chef, success in my business, and overall happy life.
What are the benefits of living in Broome county?
Business opportunities
Supportive community
Outdoor activities
Beautiful scenery; mountains, lakes, rivers.
How would you recommend Broome County to someone looking to relocate?
Great business opportunities, beautiful scenery including rivers, mountains, and lakes. A lot of diverse restaurants and bars. Small hometown feel with a supportive community!
Maxwell Bendert | Architect, AIA @ Delta Engineers and Architects
Lives in: PORT DICKINSON, NY | Works in: ENDWELL, NY
How have you found your professional experience here?
Working at Delta Engineers has provided me the hands on, one-on-one experience I might not have had in a bigger city, where I would most likely just be doing design work without the immediate and willing access of so many Architects and Engineers. This, is truly an invaluable experience.
How has your personal life benefited from living/working here?
Living in Broome has provided me the opportunity to live comfortably. After work I am able to enjoy life and unwind. Being here has allowed me to live a life that supports my vision and passions.
What are the benefits of living in Broome county?
A close knit community
Jobs are readily available
Great neighborhoods for walking, biking, etc.
Opportunities for professional growth
Easily accessible professional networking
Many restaurants and bars
Inexpensive living costs allowing for extra spending towards traveling
Outdoor activities
How would you recommend Broome County to someone looking to relocate?
Supportive community, because we are a smaller area many employers understand the value of work-life balance. This is something you don't often get in large cities. Low living expenses allow you to live comfortably and provide the opportunity to follow your individual passions! There are wonderful restaurants to enjoy with family and friends and outdoor activities such as biking, parks, golf, and more!
How have you found your professional experience here?
My professional experience in the area has been great. With the highly educated workforce, we’ve been able to teach and train a number of folks about our business. In an industry where employee turnover is commonplace, we’ve been able to attract and retain our workforce, allowing us to provide seamless support to our clients.
How has your personal life benefited from living/working here?
Broome County has been great for my family life. Having two children, we are able to participate in many family activities that were difficult to do in more metropolitan areas. The freedom from a commute and the proximity of local parks have allowed me to not only make the kids theater events, but has allowed me to coach their softball and basketball teams.
Having lived in the Washington, DC area and then in New York City, there was little work life balance. We decided that the geographic location of Broome County was great for us to be able to access metropolitan areas whenever we want, but had the community aspects that we weren’t expiring in metropolitan areas.
What are the benefits of living in Broome county?
A true community with history and a great cross section of cultures.
Great schools – from elementary school to Post Graduate degrees.
How would you recommend Broome County to someone looking to relocate?
The combination of geographic location with the benefits that an educated community and a low cost of living makes Broome Country a great place to live!
Great location to metropolitan areas in a suburban community.
Many cultural and entertainment opportunities close by and/or within a short drive.
All the great out of doors opportunities minutes away – running, hiking, skiing, etc., while reading the benefits of a small city – theaters, shopping, restaurants, etc.
Jimmy Valdez & Nikki Alt | Restaurant Owners @ Citrea
Lives in: BINGHAMTON, NY | Works In: BINGHAMTON, NY
How have you found your professional experience here?
After many years of hard work in Washington D.C. working under other restaurant owners, we wanted to live a peaceful life and raise a family. We decided to take our knowledge, experience, and vision to Broome and open our own restaurant, Citrea. We wanted to offer something that was a little different than the usual, while still staying familiar to what the area likes. It has been fun, challenging, and like our typical path, a learning experience.
How has your personal life benefited from living/working here?
We have been able to live our dream opening our own restaurant, as well as begin a family.
What are the benefits of living in Broome county?
Business opportunities
Many unique restaurants, there is a little something for every one
Wonderful place to raise a family
Relaxed peaceful lifestyle
How would you recommend Broome County to someone looking to relocate?
Broome is a great place to start a family. It is a small supportive community with great opportunities for growth.
Lives in: BINGHAMTON, NY | Hometown: MIDDLEBURY, CT
How have you found your professional experience here?
I get to do what I love everyday - I get to build a beautiful space, create food and drinks that are unique and beautiful, all the while running a successful business. For me, it is the perfect work/play life.
How has your personal life benefited from living/working here?
We have a much improved work/play balance from the NYC grind. We are able to maintain an adventurous lifestyle of travel and outdoor recreation. We are able to build a successful business, while keeping the creativity flowing. It is fulfilling to have an amazing community of friends, artists, academics and fellow entrepreneurs to be a part of. We are able to plan for a home and family.
What are the benefits of living in Broome county?
Affordable real-estate market for smart investment
Minimal living expenses allow for saving and planning for long-term stability
Growing, creative and forward-thinking community
Resources available for new business start-ups
Lifestyle/livability: Outdoor recreation, college-town vibe, art scene, community activities, clean air and water
Healthy and comfortable place to raise a family
Creative fellow entrepreneurs to collaborate with
Accessible, community-oriented local government
How would you recommend Broome County to someone looking to relocate?
Great location: between NYC and Upstate region. You can access the Adirondack Mountains, Finger Lakes wine region, NYC, Long Island beaches, Montreal etc. Plus, healthy, growing, creative and forward-thinking community with beautiful rolling hills, farms and rivers and an affordable real-estate market!
Lives in: BINGHAMTON, NY | Hometown: ROCHESTER, NY
Why did you choose to live/work in Broome County?
This was a career move for me.
How have you found your professional experience here?
I have found the experience to be engaging. I have been able to network with some of the best professionals in their respective fields. My professional interactions require me to be at the top of my game.
How has your personal life benefited from living/working here?
This is a new phase for us. We are now empty nesters and this area allows for a work life balance that fulfills our needs.
What are the benefits of living in Broome county?
nature (great outdoors and activities), great food, fantastic arts scene, great golf, small community allows for easy engagement, reasonable housing costs, beautiful neighborhoods, close to everywhere.
How would you recommend Broome County to someone looking to relocate?
If you are looking for a community that has a little of everything and is close to everything, then this is the place. There are opportunities for professional interactions and engagement as well the chance to unwind and unplug. This is the undiscovered gem of New York State.
