The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation officially launched the New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry to showcase the state’s business that have been in operation for at least 50 years and have contributed to their communities’ history. This registry started as a result of a bill passed by the state legislature and all nominations must be sponsored by a state elected official. Additionally, the program will provide educational and promotional assistance to help these businesses stay open for at least another 50 years.

“When I was approached to nominate two businesses to launch the New York State Historic Business Registry, it was a no-brainer to nominate both Agri-Mark and Clare and Carl’s because of the impact these businesses have on their local communities,” said Assemblyman Jones. “While the origins of michigans is debated, the North Country’s love for michigans is indisputable. Clare and Carl’s is a local icon selling this delicacy and is proudly celebrating their 80th year this season making them a perfect fit for this designation. Dairy farming is also deeply embedded in our regional identity. As a former dairy farmer and lifelong resident of Chateaugay, it was especially an honor to nominate Agri-Mark in recognition of their rich history and impact on the North Country community. Agri-Mark in Chateaugay was originally part of the Chateaugay Co-op and McCadam cheese and has grown to be one of the largest dairy cooperatives in the northeast. While writing these nominations, I learned so much about the history of these businesses and I hope that customers and local residents are inspired to learn more about the history of Clare and Carl’s and Agri-Mark when they hear about the historic business registry.”

“Wow,” said Cary Garcia, owner of Clare and Carl’s. “What an amazing opening day for our 80th season. To top it off we are now recognized on the New York State Historic Preservation Registry! This comes with being in business for 80 years, being a local business, living in an amazing community with the best customers, and years of having a great foundation (no pun intended).To Clare and Carl Warn for being the original, Michael and Terry Murray, aka the Queen, for keeping the legacy going, and the amazing staff members we have had over the years to dedicate their summers to us. I want to thank Assemblyman Jones for stopping by today and I’m still disappointed that I was too busy cooking in the kitchen to come out and say hello. Here’s to an amazing season and many more wonderful memories for generations to come!”

“We’re honored to be included in the historic business registry and we thank Assemblyman Jones for the nomination,” said Bill Beaton, CEO, Agri-Mark, Inc. “Our Chateaugay cheese plant has been a part of the local economy since the early 1900s, and it has manufactured McCadam cheese for over 70 years. The plant is as much a strategic part of the local community and the economy of the North Country as it is to Agri-Mark’s cooperative business. Since we purchased the plant in 2003, we have continued to produce the highest quality dairy products under both the McCadam and Cabot brand names. From Adirondack Wicked Sharp Cheddar to Muenster and Pepperjack, our dedicated plant production team produces award-winning cheeses year after year that our customers and consumers crave. We’re proud to continue the cheesemaking legacy in Chateaugay and to be recognized as an historic business.”

The registry is a non-competitive program and as long as the business meets the criteria, their nomination will be accepted. Each business will receive a certificate and a window decal. Each elected state official may nominate two businesses for inclusion per term. For more information and to see other businesses on the registry, check out their website: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/805a3d538a92484f9d1ab454b45610c6