Newly-Rebranded Chamber Welcomes New Leadership Honors Businesses

Business of the Year, awarded by President Ray Pucci to Bovina Center Montessori School, was accepted by Co-Founder David Madie.

The Catskill Campaign for the Future Fund (CCFF) was honored with the Business Connector Award presented by Alliance President Ray Pucci to Marjorie Miller.

DELANCEY - The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, rebranded as the Delaware County Business Alliance earlier this year, recognized several businesses at the annual Business Awards on Aug. 20th. The event was President Ray Pucci's final farewell after nearly a decade of service.

"It is a privilege to represent the interests of our business owners, especially during these past very challenging years," said Pucci, "Our collective work underscores the value, the vitality, the forward movement that engaged businesses bring to each of our communities."

Board Chairperson Amy Warner dedicated one of the Alliance's annual awards as the Ray Pucci Community Connector Award. She announced Todd Pascarella of Fleischmanns as the new leader, succeeding Pucci, who will retire. He will work part-time to continue serving as the executive director of the Delaware Ulster Railroad and Catskill Revitalization Corporation. He is honored, excited, and humbled to succeed Pucci, said Warner.

"To close I'd like to say thank you to Ray for your long unwavering effort in being a true supporter of all businesses here in our county," said Pascarella, "Thank you for following your instinct to step forward, and simply help others out, and for your mentorship, leadership, vision, and for planting many seeds for a bright future in Delaware County."

Shortly after opening Union Grove Distillery in Arkville with a friend about a decade ago, Pascarella became a member of the Chamber board. Pascarella also served as board chair during Pandemic times.

Josiah Brown is working to rebrand the Alliance's vision and provide guests with a presentation outlining the organization's future goals.

In announcing awards, Pucci said, "Tonight is a celebration. It's a celebration of business success. It's a celebration of business and community working together toward a shared vision of our economy. Businesses are the lifeblood, the link to prosperity, that flows through the veins of our communities. We believe Delaware County businesses are build differently."

Business of the Year was awarded to Bovina Center Montessori School. Co-Founder David Madie accepted the award. The school opened in 2021, quickly growing from 30 students in primary education to over 80 children all the way through high school.

"The school has introduced an innovative curriculum based on the highest standards from Montessori schools and focused on nature, conservation, arts, sustainability, and entrepreneurship; aligning well with the future jobs and start-up businesses in Delaware County," said Pucci.

The Cullman Center for Child Development was similarly awarded the Business of the Year honor. "Over the last 32 years, they have built a welcoming and supportive atmosphere where every child flourishes, and every family finds the resources they need," said Pucci. Director Amy Williams accepted the award.

The Rising Star New Business Awards, given to those opened within the last five years, were presented to Cadillac Ranch of Davenport, Dear Native Grapes of Walton, and Made & Found of Delhi. "Each are risk-takers, but confident and informed by optimism," said Pucci.

The Catskill Campaign for the Future Fund (CCFF) was honored with the Business Connector Award. The fund was established to support nonprofits in addressing issues such as access to mental health services, food insecurity, and inadequate public transportation by providing funding for projects or programs. The idea was headed by Marjorie Miller, said Pucci. "The team at the Fund expect to launch next year with more than $5 million in donations from New York City residents who share a concern for their water and the people who ensure its continued high quality," he said.