Bari Pork Store in Bensonhurst held a heartfelt farewell ceremony on June 29, after serving the community for decades. State Senator Stephen Chan honored the co-owners, Tony Turrigiano and George Firrantello, with the New York State Senate 2025 Empire Award for their exceptional contributions to the neighborhood. Chan emphasized the importance of community diversity and cooperation during the ceremony, while local officials and residents expressed their gratitude and sadness over the store's closure, signifying a poignant moment in the community's history and changing landscape.
I'm honored to have known George and Tony for over 20 years, and I can't think of anyone more deserving of the Empire Award. It was over three decades ago that I moved to Bensonhurst.
As some neighbors elect to cash out on their nest egg, and move on, our neighborhood becomes ever changing. We are no longer just one, or two, or even three races. We're diversified and we can embrace each other and continue our success, or we can be divided.
It's farewell, but not goodbye to the boys of Bari Pork Store. And I'm glad to see so many friends, family, and neighbors come out today.
The New York State Senate Empire Award is the Senate's highest honor, recognizing outstanding local businesses, organizations, and groups across New York State.
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