Bakers Grimm makes a wide variety of freshly baked pastries, bread, bagels, and amazing lunch specials at their bakery on Main Street in Delhi. There you can pick up baked goods, a salad or sandwich, and a refreshing beverage. They have a full salad bar that offers a delicious array of ingredients and three different house-made salad dressings. Not only do they operate their cafe regularly, but they also attend the Delhi Farmers’ Market, making it even more convenient to pick up fresh goods. Learn more about Bakers Grimm on their Facebook and by visiting them in person at 116 Main Street in Delhi!
Farmers’ Market Feature: Shepherd’s Meadow Flowers
Shepherd’s Meadow Flowers is a family flower farm in Bovina, NY, that grows, cuts, and sells their colorful bouquets in local stores, at the Delhi Farmers’ Market, and in bulk for weddings or special occasions. Right now, Shepherd’s Meadow's beautiful array of flowers are in the height of the season with a wide variety of stunning florals. Learn more about Shepherd’s Meadow Flowers on their website and Instagram.
Upcoming Chamber Meeting: Tuesday, August 13th at 11am
The Chamber meets every second Tuesday at 11am at the E-Center which is located at 5 1/2 Main Street. Our next meeting is Tuesday, August 13th, at 11:00am.
We welcome members to come discuss their ideas for strengthening our business community as well as share information on upcoming events and more.
Chamber Member Spotlight: West Kortright Center
The West Kortright Center, which was established in 1975, is a non-profit organization that presents high caliber live music, workshops, and events. The beautiful, historic venue sits on a rural corner of East Meredith, NY, and offers indoor and outdoor performances. Still to come this season are multiple live concerts, a youth performance of Shakespeare in the Valley: As You Like It, and workshops ranging from wooden spoon carving to stonewall restoration. Learn more about the wonderful offerings at the West Kortright Center on their website, Facebook, and Instagram.
Farmers' Market Feature: Abba's Acres
Abba’s Acres is a family farm founded in 2010 in Richmondville, NY. They offer a variety of items at the Delhi Farmers’ Market such as eggs, maple syrup, jams, and honey. One thing that stands out at their table is the Hickory Syrup. The syrup is made from the bark of the tree which creates a smoky woodsy flavor that is delicious and feels a bit more adventurous than regular maple syrup. Abba’s Acres creates flavorful products that you can feel good! Learn more about them on Facebook, Instagram, and their website.
Greater Delhi Area Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting Minutes 7/9/2024
Greater Delhi Area Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting Minutes
In attendance: Lisa Wisely, Matt Krzyston, Abby Wilson, Dave Rama Sr. Jerry Pellegrino, James Arrufat.
Community Bank Balance 7/9/2024 $16,906.64
Delaware National Checking 5/31/2024 $33,113
· Holiday Weekend
o Overwhelming response from farmers market vendors and business owners was that it was a great holiday weekend. Farmers' Markets were sold out, restaurants closed early and/or turned people away cause they were so busy.
o Reports from Farmers' Market vendors was that this was the best day in revenue they have had to date, ever.
o The holiday falling on a Thursday was excellent for business. Lots of visitors and people with house guests.
o There was a feeling that there was a lot of new faces, people buying high ticket items and Jerry suggested we work on ways to get those people here throughout the year, not just over the 4 th of July.
o The board members discussed putting more money to marketing to promote Delhi as a destination to downstaters. Also to put money toward reaching people in Oneonta and drive markets identifying Delhi as worth the drive for food.
o Lisa will put together a marketing plan for 4th Quarter 2024 and 2025 where GDACC will spend money to promote events, dining, shopping, and more.
· Fair in the Square
o Great attendance. Wished we had more information than their Facebook page so people knew what was going on.
o GDACC promotes the Fair on the Square through social, email newsletters and all communication.
· Businesses Open Late 7/5 and 7/26
o The businesses hosted their stay open late event on 7/5 and everyone heard it was a success the businesses.
o They will do it again on 7/26 for the last Fair on the Square.
o Matt suggested we spend money to promote that any other "stay open late events"
o We will set up an ad for the 7/26/2024 event and also promote future open late events as they are organized.
· Next Mixer
o Next mixer is at Strickland Hollow Farm on Tuesday, September 10 th 5-7pm (or until the party ends)
o It will be just like the previous one hosted there. Jerry will invite chefs, it will be a fun party.
o Lisa will ask Julian to make the graphics and we will get the event into the calendars and promotion.
· Merchandise
o We all agreed that we were relieved that we did not make merchandise since we are now changing the logo but we would like to start the process.
o Lisa will ask Julian for a file with the new merchandise and Lisa would like to make a bag for the farmers' market in addition to T-shirts. These will be for sale with all proceeds going to support our initiatives and marketing for the businesses.
· New Board Members
o We decided to take nominations for new board members from now through our September 2024 meeting. This is a chance for people to say they would like to be involved. We will accept those nominations and we will determine who will join the board in our September 2024 meeting. We are excited to welcome anyone who is interested in participating in and collaborating with existing board and member businesses. A new board member will be expected to stay on for at least one year but we would prefer a longer commitment with the goal of any board member eventually being able to take on one of the four officer roles of the organization (President, Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary).
o Board members are expected to be at a board meeting every second Tuesday of the month for one hour and join the member meeting that follows.
o Board meeting head up and/or are a part of individual committees including mixer committee, fundraising committee, member growth, marketing and events to name a few.
· Advocacy
o The Bramley Mountain Fire Tower is still in limbo awaiting a meeting with the state variance committee and then a follow up with the County code enforcement officer.
o The Greater Delhi Area Chamber of Commerce is in full support of the fire tower and think it of benefit to Delhi in many ways.
o James mentioned that they are seeking volunteers to serve as trail stewards when the fire tower is finally open.
· Member Meeting Notes
o Nini from Tay Tea came to the meeting to discuss some safety and security issues that took place at Tay Tea. She asked if there is any way the Chamber can get involved in making the area of her business safer and shared her story with the group to make sure business owners are aware of issues.
o Doug Perette and Jonah Shaw recommended having someone from FORDO come to talk to the members about how we can understand what is going on and mitigate any future issues or tensions with unhoused and recovery populations that use the resources available in Delhi. Abby Wilson is going to spearhead a group discussion with various organizations that are in charge of and/or working with those running these facilities and programs.
o Rachel Watson came to the meeting to discuss a new event that she and Janet Tweed are working on at Hoyt Park and the parking lot that will allow kids free space, free of cars every Sunday from 2-6pm. The first free play is Sunday, July 14 th. Rachel wanted to make businesses aware of this event which the Chamber is promoting.
o Doug from Delco discussed a marketing strategy to reach new students and their parents to introduce and build bonds with the businesses on Main Street as new students arrive on campus. If anyone is interested in working with Doug to reach students and their families, please contact him.
o Next Meeting Tuesday, August 8th, 2024.
Farmers' Market Feature: Old Soul Botanicals
Old Soul Botanicals is a two person team, Ann Marie and Zaybra Thurgood, who work with flowers and plants in Bovina Center, NY. Old Soul Botanicals specializes in flower essences and salt scrubs and they also sell wooden earrings and dried herbs each week at the Delhi Farmers’ Market. As part of Bovina Day on Saturday, July 20th, Old Soul Botanicals is hosting a Garden Walk & Flower Essence Workshop from 11am-1pm. Explore the gardens on the property and learn how to blend your own flower essence while sipping on Elderflower Soda and other herbal drinks. Learn more about Old Soul Botanicals on their website and Instagram and RSVP to the Garden Walk & Workshop here.
Chamber Member Spotlight: Sheri Fabian Studios
Photo courtesy of Sheri Fabian Studios
Sheri Fabian Studios is an architecture studio on Main Street in Delhi, NY. The studio is run by Sheri Fabian who is a registered architect in NYS with experience ranging from stick-build, pro-bono community work to multi-million dollar pitches for Las Vegas developers. Sheri Fabian has recently rediscovered a fascination for architecture of the home with an interest in architecture of contemporary humility, comfort, and meaning. Learn more about Sher Fabian Studios on their website.
Photo courtesy of Sheri Fabian Studios
Find Waldo in Delhi, NY!
The search is on! Waldo has landed in Delhi, NY, and is hiding in 25 local businesses. Hosted by The Lost Bookshop in partnership with American Booksellers Association and Candlewick Press, Waldo has ventured to 25 local businesses and needs to be found! To participate in this scavenger hunt, visit The Lost Bookshop to pick up a Find Waldo passport, visit as many shops as you can, and receive a stamp each time you find Waldo. The stamps on your passport help you redeem prizes and enter you in to win the big raffle at the end of the month. All participants are welcome to attend the celebration party at The Lost Bookshop on July 13st.
Learn more on The Lost Bookshop’s website, Instagram, and Facebook.
The Charm of Vintage Base Ball
The sun is shining and Vintage Base Ball Season is in full swing! The Greater Delhi Area has two teams, the Bovina Dairymen, and the Delhi Polecats. These two teams go head-to-head all season long playing against each other, the Fleischmann M.A.C., and other visiting teams. So what is vintage base ball?
Vintage base ball is an ode to the way base ball was played in the 1800s, when rules were changing yearly and only the catcher wore a mitt. The game is competitive and fun, focused on bringing the community together for an exciting afternoon!
We’ve included a portion of the schedule below. To see a list of all the games, visit the Delaware County Vintage Base Ball Association website here.
Feel free to pack a picnic, grab your friends, sip something refreshing and cheer on your favorite team. Mark your calendar and start planning your adventure to participate in this vibrant tradition!
Vintage Base Ball Schedule 2024
Games in the Greater Delhi Area
All games begin at noon unless otherwise noted.
Saturday, May 18th
Bovina Dairymen v. Delhi Polecats @ Creamery Field, Bovina, NY
Saturday, June 8th
Bovina Dairymen v. Delhi Polecats – 1pm @ the Meredith Dairy Festival
Saturday, July 13th
Edward B. Chace “Bass-Ball” Classic feat. Bovina Dairy Men, Delhi Polecats, Fleischmanns M.A.C. & Elizabeth Resolutes @ Crawford Field, Hamden, N.Y.
Saturday, August 3rd
Delhi Polecats v. Canton Cornshuckers – 11am @ Crawford Field, Hamden, N.Y.
Sunday, August 4th
Bovina Dairymen v. Canton (MI) Cornshuckers @ Creamery Field, Bovina, NY
Saturday, August 24th
Bovina Dairymen v. Base Ball Club of Saugerties @ Creamery Field, Bovina, NY
Saturday, September 14th
Bovina Dairymen v. Fleischmanns M.A.C. @ Creamery Field, Bovina, NY
Saturday & Sunday, October 5th & 6th
4th Annual Cowtown Scramble Vintage Base Ball Festival, Bovina, NY
Chamber Member Spotlight: The Stonehouse
The Stonehouse is a home and lifestyle boutique on Main Street in Delhi, NY. The store offers an ever-changing eclectic mix of handmade objects, colorful textiles, mid-century modern furniture pieces and homegoods from designers, makers, and artisans both local and worldwide. On Friday, July 26th The Stonehouse will be open late as part of Del-Hi! Summer Fridays. The Stonehouse and other shops will be open with boozy drinks and tasty snacks while selling their amazing products late into the eve! Learn more about The Stonehouse on their website and Instagram.
Farmers’ Market Feature: Elder Sisters Apothecary
Elder Sisters Apothecary began out of deep sisterhood and came to life during the Winter Solstice of 2018. Elder Sisters Apothecary offers products to support physical and energetic well being as well as a resource for individuals to deepen their connection to the wisdom and magick of the earth. They are excited about the release of their new Nick’s & Pricks Gardeners Hand Salve which provides nourishment and relief to the well-worn hands of gardeners and anyone looking for a soothing solution. Elder Sisters offers a wide variety of other herbal products, such as the new Banishing Bugs Spray, as well as retreats, and other special offerings. Learn more about Elder Sisters Apothecary on their website, Instagram, and Facebook.
2024 Bridge Run Scholarship Winners
The Annual Delhi Bridge Run took place on June 1st, 2024 with a great turn out and beautiful weather. The annual event brings the county together to enjoy time with the community and to raise funds to support graduating seniors and a charity or organization of their choice. Usually two graduating seniors receive scholarships but due to an overwhelming amount of great scholarship essays, a third recipient received a partial scholarship this year.
Allene Vesterfelt wrote an essay about how helping a neighbor-in-need exposed the fantastic work of Delaware Opportunities, an organization that has many facets. One of the services that stuck out to Allene is that Delaware Opportunities delivers meals to homebound adults and offers congregate dining for seniors who are able to travel and would like to enjoy a nutritious meal in good company. Read Allene’s full essay here.
Kara Fitch wrote about Future Farmers of America and shared how the club not only teaches practical hands-on skills but supports the community with a variety of projects. Read more about Kara and Future Farmers of America in the scholarship winning essay here.
Cooper Cohen wrote about the International Cultures Club at Delaware Academy. The club began as a way for students to learn more about various cultures around the world that don’t often show up in educational material. The club intends to bring awareness about the diversity of culture around the world and in Delaware County. Read Cooper’s essay here.
As recipients of the Bridge Run Scholarship, each student and the organization or club of their choice received a cash stipend to further support their missions. Thanks to all of the participants in the Bridge Run, the volunteers, and sponsors for making this year another great success!
Chamber Member Spotlight: The Concrete Creative
Photo courtesy of The Concrete Creative
The Concrete Creative is a new retail store in Hamden, NY! The store showcases the artistic and functional pieces made by The Concrete Creative and also features the work of local artists and producers. Enjoy local coffee and tea Thursdays-Sunday to compliment your shopping extravaganza! Visit the shop soon to browse the beautiful products that are either made or found in the US. Learn more on their website, Instagram, and Facebook.
Photo courtesy of The Concrete Creative
Farmers’ Market Feature: Twin Ponds Farm
Twin Ponds Farm began with one alpaca in Bloomville, NY. Soon after the first alpaca, Jimmy, more alpacas came along followed by Scottish Highland cattle, chickens, ducks, turkeys, geese, and Guinea fowl. Twin Ponds Farm sheers their alpacas and uses the wool for wonderful products that are available at the Delhi Farmers’ Market. Items available at the market include alpaca dryer balls, catnip infused cat toys, gloves, yarn, and other products. Learn more about Twin Ponds Farm on their website, Facebook, and Instagram.
Fridays in July: Fair on the Square!
The Annual Delhi Fair on the Square kicked off on Friday, July 5th with a bang! Each week the square will be filled with interactive games, food, and various activities that will bring joy and excitement to your Friday night. There is fun for the whole family with live music, shopping, and a lot of activities.
Each week features different activities and attractions. Stay tuned for updates and make plans to spend your Friday nights in Delhi for the month of July!
Upcoming Chamber Meeting: Tuesday, July 9th at 11am
The Chamber meets every second Tuesday at 11am at the E-Center which is located at 5 1/2 Main Street. Our next meeting is Tuesday, July 9th, at 11:00am.
We welcome members to come discuss their ideas for strengthening our business community as well as share information on upcoming events and more.
Chamber Mixer Recap
Thank you to all who attended the Summer Mixer Happy Hour! We had a lovely turn out and a fantastic time. A huge thank you to Bizzy Bees Learning Academy and Delhi Work Station for hosting the mixer and another huge thank you to Strickland Hollow who provided delicious drinks and sandwiches!
We used the mixer as an opportunity to award this quarter’s Star Award. Amanda Faulk-Ghidinelli received a Community Business Star for her exceptional business, Bizzy Bees Learning Academy. Bizzy Bees offers a warm, nurturing, and educational environment with influences of modern learning such as Montessori and Waldorf teaching styles in the newly renovated building on Kingston Street. They are proud to offer a space where children feel safe and empowered but most importantly feel included. Families in the greater Delhi area have been positively impacted by Bizzy Bees Learning Academy, and the great reviews of Bizzy Bees keep on coming. The Chamber was happy to recognize Amanda Faulk-Ghidinelli’s hard work with this quarter's Star Award. If you don’t already know about the amazing resource of Bizzy Bees Learning Academy, learn more here.
Thank you to everyone who attended! We look forward to seeing you all at the next mixer.
Chamber Member Spotlight: Livestock Foundation
Photo courtesy of Livestock Foundation
Livestock Foundation is a non-profit in Bovina, NY, that supports a series of interconnected initiatives with a focus on revitalizing properties for the public benefit and sponsoring community programs to promote the human, economic, and natural resources of the local rural community. They offer an agriculture scholarship, a community grant program, a mini-grant program, and sponsor the Bovina Farmers’ Market. Livestock Foundation just announced their plans for a community center located on Main Street in Bovina that will be available to the public in 2026. Learn more about all of the exciting things Livestock Foundation has to offer on their website, Facebook, and Instagram.
“The Union” courtesy of Livestock Foundation
Farmers' Market Feature: Tinkertown Provisions
Tinkertown Provisions is a hot sauce company with products that offer unique flavors and full taste. The company builds each hot sauce around the flavors of the Western Catskills while fostering relationships with local growers to create small-batch condiments with a few simple ingredients. Tinkertown Provisions is excited about the release of their new hot sauce called BLOOD. The extra-hot concoction is made of fire-toasted peppers, blood orange, garlic, and red clover. Visit the Delhi Farmers’ Market each Wednesday and try a taste of the full line of hot sauces at Tinkertown Provisions booth! Learn more about Tinkertown Provisions on their website and Instagram.
