Ulster County Black Business Awards Announced

The Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce and Ulster County Tourism have announced the recipients of the 2nd annual Black Business Achievement Awards. A total of six businesses and individuals will be recognized and celebrated on April 26, 2023 at a special awards ceremony at Ulster Savings Bank.
 
These awards recognize local Black-Owned Businesses or Black Business Leaders that have achieved outstanding results and shown dedication and commitment to furthering business, enhancing their community, who have shown perseverance and improved the quality of life in Ulster County. The 2023 Honorees are:
 
Black Business Excellence Award – Blue Byrd’s (John Blue and Maureen Byrd-Blue)
This Award recognizes a Black Business Leader or Black-Owned Business that has achieved extraordinary accomplishments and is an example to others.
 
Black Business Leadership Award – Joseph McDole Jr. (J’s Painting Service)
This Award is given to a Black individual or organization that displays exceptional leadership qualities and has a history of community service.
 
Sojourner Truth Award – Candice Van Dyke
This Award goes to an outstanding local Black Woman Business Leader or Black Woman Business Owner who has excelled in breaking down barriers and has shown concern for others.
 
Everett Hodge Award – Dr. Paula Childs-Perez
This Award is given to a Black Business Leader or Black-Owned Business that exemplifies hard work and determination and has demonstrated a commitment to its employees, customers or clients.
 
Maude Bruce Award – Christina (Nina) Dawson
This Lifetime Achievement Award is given to a Black individual who has dedicated their life to issues of racial and social justice and has improved the quality of life for the citizens of Ulster County.
 
Young Black Leader of Tomorrow – Alonzo Jordan
This Award is given to a young Black adult who has displayed determination, has an exceptional work ethic and an interest in pursuing a career in business or entrepreneurship.

“The Chamber would like to congratulate the 2023 Honorees and to offer special thanks to those who provided the nominations and the independent panel for the final selections,” stated Ward Todd, President of the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce.
 
The awards are an annual event, co-hosted by the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce and Ulster County Tourism. The principal sponsor is Ulster Savings Bank. The Welcoming Sponsor is Go Beyond Greatness.
 
The awards will be presented in the corporate headquarters of Ulster Savings Bank on Schwenk Drive in Kingston. The event is scheduled for Wednesday April 26th, starting at 5:00pm. Doors will open at 4:00pm. An opportunity for the community to connect will follow from 6:00 – 8:00pm.
 
Additional information about the event can be found at www.UlsterChamber.org.  The Chamber may also be contacted at 845-338-5100.