11/17/2003CHAMBER RECOGNIZES INDIVIDUALS, BUSINESSES FOR ACHIEVEMENT
Cortland, NY – Two Cortland businessmen were recognized and several businesses were cited for their accomplishments during the recent annual dinner of the Cortland County Chamber of Commerce. More than 180 people attended the dinner and program November 17 at the Cortland Country Club
Honored for lifetime achievement was local realtor and developer Jim Yaman, who has played a critical role in the development of the city’s landscape for more than 50 years. Yaman is also philanthropist, underwriting numerous community projects over the years including the development and operation of Yaman Park, named for his late father.
“Jim has been honored before, but we just felt like we needed to recognize the scope of his work,” said Chamber executive director Garry VanGorder. “A hundred years from now people will know that this was a man who cared deeply about his hometown and wasn’t afraid to show it. The Cortland we know today would be much different without his work here.”
Also honored was John O. Reagan, the Chamber’s Volunteer of the Year. Reagan, of Corpora and Reagan CPA, is largely responsible this year for the successful completion of a Workforce Development initiative funded through a grant from the state Department of Labor.
“This grant was well intentioned but was an administrative nightmare, even by state standards,” VanGorder said. “Thanks to John, we got through it and even helped some kids along the way. It wouldn’t have happened without him and we’re very, very grateful for the time and energy he put into this project.”
Businesses receiving awards last night were:
• Marietta Corporation (large business category) for its continued growth and development and for the recent completion of its $10 million bulk manufacturing and retail filling project at the former Rubbermaid facility on Central Avenue.
• McNeil & Company (mid-size business category) for its continued growth in Downtown Cortland and for its ongoing generosity and partnership in numerous community events
• Lucky’s (small business/retail category) for its work to help energize Main Street as a venue for live music of appeal to all ages. Lucky’s regularly features top-flight music at its 77 Main Street address, and its owner, Bob Catalano, has been a driving force behind the growth of the new Main Street Music Series.
• YWCA (not-for-profit category) for its ongoing work to serve young women and families in Cortland County. With five core programs, the YWCA has an annual operating budget of more than $2 million and is now considering expansion.
“It’s been a good year for the Chamber and it’s great to recognize those who’ve helped us and helped the community along the way,” VanGorder said.
The Chamber, located at 26 N. Main St., represents more than 500 businesses in and around Cortland County.