For Middleburgh Accountant, A Chance to Assist in Recovery

MIDDLEBURGH - Francis Pipczynski didn't quite know what to expect when he accepted a meeting with Mayor Matthew Avitabile of Middleburgh. The Mayor had posted an ad online calling for an accountant to return to the community. The community's beloved accountant, Joe Muniz, had been forced out by Hurricane Irene. The first meeting went well, then the second, and then an introduction to Middleburgh's new Business Association.

By December 2013 an office was open on Main Street. The Village government furnished a small grant and a zero-percent loan to assist the opening of Valley Tax and Accounting. A website was up, later a Facebook page. Pipczynski didn't expect to make a killing in his first year, and wanted to be a part of the community's recovery. "My own belief is that there are only two types of people - hill finders and hill climbers and so far I have only met the latter," he said. The business community and local residents rallied around the new accountant. For the community it was more than another business-- the opening of the office was the ninth since 2012, marking the first time Middleburgh had more businesses than before the flood.

Valley Tax took part in December's annual Miracle on Main Street and was amazed by the community outpouring of support. He publishes a newsletter for people to take advantage of saving and tax loopholes.

Pipczynski offers more than just accounting but also personal asset services, retirement planning, and bookkeeping for businesses. His office is at 296 Main Street in Middleburgh and can be reached at 827-3311.