Greater Mahopac-Carmel Chamber of Commerce Honors Local Businesses

Several local businesses were recognized at the Greater Mahopac-Carmel Chamber of Commerce’s annual Business Person of the Year dinner, which was held Jan. 31 at the Putnam County Golf Course in Mahopac.

“Each year the Chamber selects the best and the brightest from the membership for the awards. It’s important to recognize our members' countless contributions to the community,” said Erin Meagher, CEO of the Greater Mahopac-Carmel Chamber of Commerce, in a notice after the event.

Thomas O’Leary of The UPS Store in Mahopac was awarded the title of 2016 Business Person of the Year. O’Leary attributes his success to providing, “great customer service. When customers visit my store, I want them to feel at home in a warm and welcoming environment.”

In addition, Michael Bothe and William Fitzgerald of the Mahopac Flower Shop were awarded the title of 2016 Business People Meritorious. The Mahopac Flower Shop has been in operation in downtown Mahopac for 27 years. Bothe and Fitzgerald attribute their success to the philosophy that the “customer is always right.”

Finally, Robert Delucia of Local Boys Junk Removal in Mahopac was awarded the title of the 2016 Emerging Professional. The Emerging Professional Award is given to a business owner who has been in business for three years or less who encompasses passion in what they do and volunteerism in the community. Delucia, a Mahopac High School alum, opened Local Boys Junk Removal three years ago. His passion is “…to make my community look and feel better. I use my hands-on skills to do my part.”

Over 100 attendees were present at the Business Person of the Year dinner this year despite the inclement weather.

The mission of The Greater Mahopac-Carmel Chamber of Commerce is to advance economic development in the community by promoting member businesses as well as sponsoring community, cultural, and business events.

Photo caption: The Greater Mahopac-Carmel Business Person of the Year Award winners, from left: Michael Bothe and William Fitzgerald, owners of Mahopac Flower Shop; Tom O'Leary, owner of the UPS Store; Rob Delucia, owner of Local Boys Junk Removal