Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus has named New Windsor resident Joseph Bonura, Sr. as February’s Citizen of the Month Award recipient. This accolade is in recognition of Bonura’s exceptional business acumen, outstanding leadership qualities, and unwavering commitment to philanthropic initiatives throughout Orange County.
Bonura has long been an integral part of the Orange County community, consistently demonstrating a dedication that transcends traditional business practices. As a respected and long-time entrepreneur and restaurateur, he has been at the helm of numerous successful businesses. His leadership of the Bonura Hospitality Group through the years has resonated throughout the community, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.
"Joseph Bonura, Sr. exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated and loyal citizen of Orange County," said Neuhaus. "Through his business success and compassionate spirit, he has built a legacy that not only elevates our local economy but also enriches the lives of many residents. We are proud to recognize him as Citizen of the Month."
Since his business beginnings in 1972, Bonura has played a role in notable locations around the County including Anthony’s Pier 9, Shadows on the Hudson, Billy Joe’s Ribworks, West Hills Country Club, Bistecca Italian Steakhouse and Wine Bar, and Blu Point, to name a few.
Beyond his business accomplishments, Bonura is highly regarded for his extensive charitable work. He has dedicated much of his time and resources to support various local initiatives, ranging from education to military to healthcare. Along with his wife, Mary, he is a longtime supporter of Hospice of Orange and Sullivan Counties and Mount St. Mary’s College in Newburgh, where he is in the process of establishing a scholarship program for accounting majors. He also currently has a scholarship named after him at the college.
According to good friend Alan Seidman, Executive Director of the Construction Contractors Association who nominated Bonura his generosity was felt in 2017 when tragedy struck Orange County. “Joe picked up the phone and called me, saying, ‘Let’s do a fundraiser for the families affected,’” said Seidman. “He donated one of his restaurants for a dinner. From that dinner, 100 percent of the proceeds were donated to those families in need. His contributions have continuously helped to enhance the quality of life for countless individuals and families in crisis, making a meaningful difference in the fabric of this community.”
For the past decade, Bonura and his family have generously donated catering services for the Military Appreciation Picnics at Stewart Air National Guard Base. This bi-annual event, which has been taking place since 2011, has become a beloved tradition for all the military personnel at Stewart, thanks in large part to Joe, his family, and their hardworking employees.
“As a veteran myself, I can personally attest to the impact that Joe's dedication has had on our military community here in Orange County,” said Neuhaus. “Not only does he provide delicious food for the picnics, but he also creates a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone to come together. This is the kind of generous man Joe Bonura is; he does so much behind the scenes. And that is why he is truly deserving of Citizen of the Month.”
Neuhaus introduced his Citizen of the Month Award, which acknowledges outstanding Orange County residents, in January of 2017.
To nominate someone for the Citizen of the Month Award, please email PressContact@orangecountygov.com with the subject line “Citizen of the Month.” Be sure to include the nominee’s name, hometown, a list of their accomplishments, why you are nominating them and any other pertinent information, including how to contact.
For more information, contact Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to County Executive, Director of Public Information and Media Relations, at 845.291.2700 or presscontact@orangecountygov.com.