NORWICH – Last week, McLaughlin’s Department Store recognized a very special employee, Steve Cornelius, who has been working for the local retailer for twenty-five years and has been a part of the downtown business community for much longer.
Over the years Cornelius has worked at Chenango Sporting Goods, Winan’s Mens Shop and Video Entertainment before finally settling down at McLaughlin’s. To honor his dedication, City of Norwich Mayor Joseph Maiurano presented him with a Certificate of Recognition for all the years and hard work he has put into the company and the community.
Maiurano handed over the certificate, saying, “We are proud to count you among our treasures.” Then, after a quick photo op, Cornelius, Maiurano, and members of the McLaughlin family headed upstairs for a small celebration in Cornelius’ honor. Before he went to celebrate, of course, Cornelius had to punch out his time card – no celebrating on the job for this employee.
Cornelius talked about his favorite part of the community, stating, “I enjoy the small town, the people ... you know everybody,” he said. “I’m glad I ended up here.”
When asked what his favorite part of working at McLaughlin’s was, he looked around at the friends surrounding him and the customers in the store, smiled, and answered, “A lot of the girls I worked with or I knew when they were younger come in here now with their kids, and stop to talk to me or ask about me. It’s nice to be remembered.”