We would like to add our voices to the expressions of gratitude to Rich Cooper for his many years of service to the community with his stewardship of Cooper’s Corner and State Street Fruit Store.
We are longtime customers (almost daily) of State Street Fruit Store, and occasionally Cooper’s Corner. We have seen first hand the hard work and dedication of Rich, and now of Mike Natale who is to be the new owner of the stores. Our admiration and congratulations to both of them.
Long before “Buy Local” was the watchword, Rich was buying local as much as he could. He was a model, and so many of us appreciated that.
Rich’s focus on customer needs was never more in evidence than during the recent COVID years. Under his direction, staff took orders all day long for food and supplies and he oversaw that they were sent out as quickly as possible. It was a lifeline for many.
We also appreciate greatly the commitment Rich and his wife, Catherine Kay, have to the community. They are amazing pillars of all kinds of charitable good works. This is the epitome of what a small business owner who is personal and dedicated to community can do.
Well done, Rich and Cathy, and we wish you many happy times together in the days ahead.
Jenny Fleming-Ives
Peter Ives
Northampton