🎉 Business Spotlight Winner – December Luncheon 🎉
Congratulations to Howard Krueger of Krueger Funeral Home, our December Business Spotlight winner.
Krueger Funeral Home has been serving the Mattydale community since 1953, and Howard continues that legacy with compassion, care, and a strong commitment to families. A graduate of Simmons School, Howard began his career as a Funeral Director in 1983 and has led the family business for decades, carrying forward the values it was built on.
Howard believes every service should reflect the life being honored. His philosophy says it best: “If it can come in through our front doors, we will display it for your service.” Under his leadership, families receive personalized care along with meaningful resources to support them not only at the time of loss, but in the months that follow.
Congratulations, Howard, and thank you for the dedication you bring to our community.
Krueger Funeral Home
2619 Brewerton Rd
Mattydale, NY 13211
(315) 455-6131
https://www.kruegerfuneralhome.com/
🎉 Business Spotlight Winner – December Java Talk 🎉
Congratulations to Sara Cervino, NYS Licensed Real Estate Associate Broker at Illuminate Real Estate who was recognized as our Business Spotlight winner at this month’s Chamber Java Talk!
Get to know a little bit about Sara Cervino / Illuminate Real Estate.
“I’ve been a licensed Realtor for 13 years, and I’ve built my career around learning, growing, and truly looking out for the people I work with. Beyond the required continuing education, I’ve completed nine designation and certification courses across many areas of real estate. That extra training helps me guide clients more confidently, communicate more clearly, and tailor the experience to their needs. I believe real estate is personal, so I focus on listening, being responsive, and making the process as smooth as possible.
I’m also an active member of the Cicero Plank Road Chamber of Commerce, where I lend a hand with some administrative and marketing efforts. Being involved with the Chamber has brought me into contact with so many wonderful people, and it has enriched both my professional world and my personal circle. I’m grateful for the connections, collaboration, and sense of community it brings.
If you or someone you know needs help with real estate, I’m always happy to be a resource. While I spend a lot of time working in the Clay and Cicero areas, I also serve clients throughout Onondaga County and the surrounding Central New York communities. I love helping people find their place, wherever that may be. 🏠
Connect with Sara Cervino / Illuminate Real Estate
Cell: 315-420-8665
saracervino81@gmail.com
🎉 Business Spotlight Winner – November Luncheon 🎉
This month, we’re proud to spotlight the South Bay Volunteer Fire Department and recognize their long-standing dedication to the Cicero community.
South Bay was incorporated in 1955 by residents along Cicero Center Road near Lakeshore Road—right between the Bridgeport and Cicero departments. With support from both neighbors, who each donated $500, the department got its start with three vehicles: a 1939 Buffalo engine from Mattydale, a GMC tank truck, and a converted Buick ambulance.
What began as a two-bay station grew over the years thanks to countless volunteer-run fundraisers, from Firemen’s Field Days to weekly bingo and hall rentals. Today, the department is operating from a modern station with an impressive fleet, including their Rescue Pumper (RP-2), Aerial Truck (E-58), light rescue vehicles, ATVs, and a 26-foot rescue boat. They work closely with NAVAC on EMS calls and provide mutual aid to Brewerton, Cicero, and Bridgeport. They’re also part of the Oneida Lake Emergency Response Taskforce, and they support the community by helping with boating safety courses alongside Cicero Parks and Recreation and the U.S. Coast Guard.
Right now, South Bay is transforming its former banquet hall into a new Community Center for the Town of Cicero, funded through state and county grants—another way they’re continuing to invest in local families.
For 70 years, South Bay has been an all-volunteer organization. They’re always looking for community-minded men and women interested in serving their neighbors. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to volunteer, stop by any Monday night and meet the team.
🎉 Business Spotlight Winner – November Java Talk 🎉
Congratulations to Lauri Hoover, Business Development Officer at Empower Federal Credit Union who was recognized as our Business Spotlight winner at this month’s Chamber Java Talk! Here’s your chance to learn a little bit about Lauri and Empower FCU.
“I have been at Empower Federal Credit Union since January 1993 started out as the Marketing Secretary and worked my way into a Business Development Officer which I have been doing for 25+ years now. My job involves bringing in new businesses to our field of membership, adding new members, and helping them with their financial needs with the many products and services that we offer.
I enjoy working with the Cicero Plank Road Chamber of Commerce and the many events they have from the monthly JAVA Talks, Luncheons, Ribbon Cuttings and Business After Hour Events. I have found them to be very beneficial in meeting new people and adding new businesses to our field of membership at Empower Federal Credit Union as well as the many friendships I have made and continue to make.
I also try and promote the many benefits of being a chamber member when out in the community as it can make a difference in your business or organization. Last year I referred my church, Faith Lutheran Church in Cicero where I am involved in the Food Pantry, Choir and Stewardship/Fundraising. We wanted to get out in the community more and we have found it to be very beneficial and recently hosted the November JAVA Talk.
Empower Federal Credit Union is a full-service financial institution that provides checking and savings accounts, loans, and other financial products to members in Central New York and in eight counties in New York State. As a credit union, Empower is a not-for-profit financial cooperative and our members are all part-owners.”
Lauri was also awarded our “Member Appreciation Award” in July for going above and beyond in her support and commitment to the Chamber. We’re proud to have Lauri & Empower FCU as part of the Cicero Plank Road Chamber network!
🎉 Business Spotlight Winner – October Luncheon 🎉
Congratulations to Ed Moore, Project Manager with Paul Davis Restoration of North Country NY, who was recognized as our Business Spotlight winner at this month’s Chamber luncheon!
Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling is one of the largest full-service restoration and remodeling firms in the nation—serving residential, commercial, and industrial clients since 1990. Whether it’s fire, flooding, frozen pipes, or other unexpected damage, Paul Davis is available 24/7/365 to restore peace of mind when disaster strikes.
From emergency response to full-scale reconstruction and remodeling, their local team offers a wide range of services through departments focused on:
✔️ Emergency Response
✔️ Mitigation
✔️ Structure
✔️ Contents
✔️ Remodeling
Ed and the Paul Davis Restoration team are committed not only to quality construction and customer service—but also to supporting the communities they serve. We’re proud to have them as part of the Cicero Plank Road Chamber network!
⚡️ Congratulations to Neave Electric – our September Luncheon Business Spotlight winner! ⚡️
Neave Electric is a trusted provider of residential and commercial electrical services, proudly serving Liverpool, Baldwinsville, and the surrounding areas. From electrical panel upgrades and EV charging stations to lighting solutions and repair work, their experienced team delivers reliable, high-quality service for a wide range of electrical needs.
We’re proud to spotlight a local business that keeps our community powered and growing!
https://neaveelectric.com/
Get A Free Estimate!
(315) 264-7413
brianneaveelectric@gmail.com
At this month’s JavaTalk, Nick Vuocolo from NAVAC drew the winning business card for our Business Spotlight – and Mark O’Donnell of Operations Excellence, LLC was selected!
With over 35 years of experience in roles such as Industrial Engineer, Director of Operations, and General Manager, Mark has worked across a variety of industries — from manufacturing and safety products to theatrical rigging and large-scale construction projects.
In 2021, he founded Operations Excellence, LLC to combine his passions for problem-solving and helping people grow. Using a customized approach for each client, Mark helps businesses reach their goals, supported by the resources of the Trusted Advisors Network.
A Syracuse native, Mark holds a Bachelor’s in Industrial Engineering/Operations Research from Syracuse University and an MBA from Le Moyne College.
Congrats, Mark! We’re excited to feature your business this month.
https://operationsxcellence.com/
Congratulations to Larry Nasser, who was selected as the Business Spotlight at July’s Chamber Luncheon!
Lawrence is a retired banker with 25 years at KeyBank, a dedicated volunteer with the Town of Cicero Police Department, and a member of the Onondaga County DA’s Advisory Council. He’s also the author of Anything is Possible, a motivational book inspired by his personal journey overcoming a lifelong neurological disease and 13 surgeries. His message is one of resilience, belief, and the power of a positive mindset.
The Volunteers in Police Service- Cicero PD (VIPS) are local residents who have an interest in helping our community improve and maintain the quality of life for citizens by volunteering our skills and talents to the service of the Cicero Police Department. Thank you for your service.
https://ciceropd.us/v-i-p-s
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064789386247
At our Member Appreciation Event we presented our inaugural Member Appreciation Award to three amazing individuals who go above and beyond in their support and commitment to the Chamber. Congratulations to our first-ever award recipients.
In recognition of your outstanding contributions and unwavering commitment throughout the year. Your dedication, positive impact, and consistent efforts have not only strengthened our Chamber but also inspired those around you. With heartfelt gratitude, we thank you for being an essential part of our community. Your involvement has truly made a difference, and we are proud to have you as a valued member.
The Member Appreciation Award includes a certificate of recognition, a complimentary luncheon voucher, $50 in gift cards to local member businesses, and a $100 donation made to the recipient’s charity of choice.
Please join us in congratulating Sandy McKennan, Regional Branch Vice President of Sidney Federal Credit Union, who was selected as the Business Spotlight at June’s Chamber Luncheon!
I began my journey with Sidney Federal Credit Union (SFCU) on January 6, 2025. While my time with SFCU has been relatively short, I bring with me 26 years of experience in the credit union industry. Like many, I started my career as a teller and have worked my way up through the years. Throughout my career, I have held most positions within the branch, as well as roles in Human Resources, Compliance, and Collections during my time at a smaller credit union. I later transitioned to a larger credit union where I managed a Lending Call Center for many years. I’m proud to now serve as one of the Regional Branch Vice Presidents at SFCU.
I was first introduced to SFCU through former colleagues, and I’m thrilled to now be working alongside them again. SFCU has a strong community foundation and is well known in the Sidney, NY area. In recent years, we’ve expanded into Onondaga County, establishing a presence in both the Liverpool and Baldwinsville school districts, along with branch locations in Cicero and Liverpool.
Community involvement is very important to everyone at SFCU. This year, we’ve participated in a variety of events in central NY, as well as the Southern Tier. Some of our local involvement includes the Bridal Show, the Syracuse Home Show, and Liverpool Kindergarten Registration Night. We’ve also been active in the Real World program at both Liverpool and Baldwinsville schools, which teaches students about budgeting and financial literacy. Additionally, we partnered with United Way to host a Super Saturday Tax Event, offering free or low-cost tax preparation services to low-income families. We’re also proud supporters of the YMCA and its Girls Summit initiative. Most recently we have been partnering up with non-profits in multiple counties to offer membership and build relationships with.
The short version of it all, Sidney Federal Credit Union (SFCU) is a great place to work and be a member of.
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/sfcu-sidney-federal-credit-union
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sfcuonline
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@sfcuonline_banking_easier
Instagram: instagram.com/sfcuonline/
Sandy McKennan, Regional Branch VP
(315) 551-2185
smckennan@sidneyfcu.org
Sidney Federal Credit Union
Please join us in congratulating Scott Lacik of NBT Bank, who was selected as the Business Spotlight at this month’s Chamber Java Talk @ SECNY! 
With over 30 years of experience in the banking industry throughout Central New York, Scott serves as a Mortgage Originator at NBT Bank. His extensive background includes roles as a branch manager and business banking relationship manager, giving him a well-rounded perspective on client needs and financial solutions.
Scott is deeply committed to the community, having been involved in numerous local organizations over the years. He currently serves as a board member and past president of the Cicero-Plank Road Chamber of Commerce, Board Treasurer of the Pitcher Hill Housing Development and is also the Board President of the North Area Volunteer Ambulance Corps (NAVAC).
“I understand how important it is to truly listen and work alongside customers to create the best possible experience,” says Scott. “Whether you’re beginning your journey to homeownership or looking to refinance and ease financial stress, I’m here to help guide you every step of the way.”
Scott Lacik
315-876-2950
slacik@nbtbank.com
Please join us in congratulating Jared Canery of AMF Syracuse Lanes, who was selected as the Business Spotlight at May’s Chamber Luncheon!
We’re glad to have Jared & AMF Syracuse Lanes AMF Syracuse Lanes as long time members of the Cicero-Plank Road Chamber. They recently updated their facility and now includes an awesome Arcade. They have many events for Holidays, Summertime, Weekends and just about any day. 🎳 Check out their ultimate summer deal – the Summer Season Pass. https://www.amf.com/summer-season-pass
📍 Location: AMF Syracuse Lanes – 3777 Brewerton Rd, Syracuse, NY
📞 Call: 315-454-4428
📧 Email: LeagueGuestService@BowleroCorp.com
Facebook: facebook.com/AMFSyracuseLanes
Congratulations to Katelyn Carper, our Business Spotlight winner at this month’s Java Talk hosted by Purcell’s Paints!
Katelyn is the Branch Manager at Empower Federal Credit Union’s North Medical Branch on Taft Road, where she has proudly served for nearly 7 years. With a passion for helping others, Katelyn is committed to supporting members on their journey toward a stronger financial future.
Thank you, Katelyn, for all you do—and for being an active part of the Cicero Plank Road Chamber community!
315-728-3447
kcarper@empowerfcu.com
Please join us in congratulating Rachel Siderine of Seneca Savings, who was selected as the Business Spotlight at this month’s Chamber Luncheon!
Rachel was recently promoted to Vice President of Community Relations and Business Development at Seneca Savings. With a strong background in banking and a deep passion for community engagement, she’s now leading the charge in strengthening local partnerships, expanding outreach programs, and supporting financial education throughout the region.
Congratulations, Rachel, on your well-deserved promotion and for your continued commitment to making a positive impact in our community! 👏
Rachel Siderine
Vice President of Community Relations and Business Development
Seneca Savings
315-753-4037
rsiderine@senecasavings.com
Congratulations to Ads On The Go for being selected for our Business Spotlight! Proudly presented by our April Java Talk host, Randy Barnard and Pathfinder Bank. Shoutout to Zach and Karate John—CPR Chamber superfans! Thanks for always having our back (and throwing a few high kicks of support our way)!
Ads On The Go delivers eye-catching digital mobile billboards that cut through today’s cluttered, ad-saturated market—making sure your business gets noticed in a way that can’t be ignored. Whether you’re building brand awareness or energizing events, we take your message directly where it counts.
It is a moving Glowing TV – Wherever we go your business Glows” You can play video clips, show advertisements and have fun!! This Truck only delivers smiles to the community businesses. Contact Zach or Karate John for your ad to be on display!
315-816-0633
Zach@GetAdsOnTheGo.Com
GetAdsOnTheGo.Com
