Chamber Stories

Linda Baran

President & CEO, The Staten Island Chamber of Commerce

Linda Baran has been with the Chamber for more than 30 years. Starting as a bookkeeper, Linda was elevated by the Board of Directors to President & CEO in 2004, becoming the first woman to hold the role in the Chamber’s history.

Linda is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Chamber and works with the Board and Staff to develop and implement the Chamber’s vision and mission.

Richard Panchana

Owner, ImageMakers

Richard Panchana is the Owner and Operator of ImageMakers, a screen printing studio in Downtown Staten Island.

Inspired by the complexity and artistry of the screen printing press, Richard learned his trade at Image Makers’ previous location in Manhattan. When that location closed, Richard brought the business to his home in Staten Island, where he produces fashion printing for Staten Island, New York City, and even international individuals and businesses.

Kristine Garlisi

Chief Operating Officer, The Nicotra Group / Executive Director for The Lois & Richard Nicotra Foundation

Kristine Garlisi has worked with The Nicotra Group for nearly 15 years. Kristine works directly with Lois and Richard Nicotra, real estate developers, visionaries and philanthropists on their strategic planning, public and community relations, special projects, tenant relations, and achieving the overall profitability and success of all Nicotra owned entities. This includes 13 buildings in the Corporate Park of Staten Island, including their Hilton Garden Inn Staten Island and Hampton Inn & Suites, which encompass nearly 500 employees.

Frank Scarangello

President, SCARAN HVAC

Frank Scarangello is the third Chamber Chairman from the Scarangello family, following his father (Frank Scarangello, Sr., 1983-1984) and brother (Tom Scarangello, 2007-2008).

With a history spanning nearly a century, his business, SCARAN HVAC, is one of Staten Island’s oldest and most well-known. The business provides heating, cooling, and plumbing needs - among others - to Staten Island and its surrounding areas.

Frank Wilkinson

Proprietor, Rab’s Country Lanes

For Frank Wilkinson, proprietor of Rab’s Country Lanes in Staten Island, bowling isn’t just a business, but something that runs in his blood. The all-American pastime has been part of his family for more than 60 years. According to SI Live, “Frank’s father, Rab, was a professional bowler and regarded as one of Staten Island’s all-time best.”

As of 2019, Wilkinson, who was a three-time Staten Island Advance All Star for bowling while at New Dorp High School, has rolled 17 perfect games in his career.

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