By LINDA KELLETT

C-S-E News Staff

ST. JOHNSVILLE — Area residents had something to cheer about over the weekend as two new businesses celebrated grand openings and the local fire department hosted a meet-and-greet, a precursor to their open house this Friday from 6 to 8 p.m.

In addition to the gala opening of Cosmo’s Bar and Grill on Sunday, Judy King Insurance owner Steve Stortecky and staff were joined by members of the St. Johnsville Chamber of Commerce Friday for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the independent insurance agency’s new home at 2 East Main St.

In a news release, Stortecky noted that company was established by Julia “Judy” King in 1998. The agency’s first office was located in her home on state Route 67 in the town of St. Johnsville.

“The business grew, reflecting Judy’s rural background in agriculture with dairy farms as the cornerstone of her business,” the release noted.

Stortecky joined the business in 2005 and was licensed by the state in property and casualty insurance. In 2009, the business relocated to a renovated dairy barn on the property; and Stortecky bought the business on Oct. 1, 2009.

It relocated to its current location in May.

Staff includes office manager Virginia Michalik, receptionist Julie Euler and agent Jewel Landers, who has over 20 years of experience.

The company still considers the agricultural community as its foundation and also offers home, auto and business insurance.

Following the ribbon-cuttings, chamber President Margaret DiGiacomo said the ribbon cuttings represent the rejuvenation of the town. “We’re trying to create a better downtown for everyone,” she said.

Group vice-president Gail Murray, the owner of Grandma’s Kitchen, agreed. “It’s definitely coming back to life. Hopefully we’ll get a few more businesses in these storefronts now that property owners are renovating.”

Stortecky said it was nice to be welcomed into the community. “The chamber is supporting the businesses here. It’s nice being downtown,” he said.

Darren Bellen, the owner of Bellen’s Archery and Recreation on the western end of the community, said there’s more traffic in the village, particularly that of pedestrians. Additionally, people drive more slowly within village limits.

DiGiacomo noted that the chamber has a new website. Designed by webmaster Joyce Berry, the chamber’s web address is stjohnsvillechamber.org.