Sparky's Diner in Garnerville is honored as an outstanding small business

Sparky's Diner in Garnerville has seen a lot in four decades of business: Generations of customers, dozens of film crews (the diner has been the backdrop for Julia Roberts' "Ben is Back," and "Billions") and lots of eggs over easy, burgers and coffee.

Now Sparky's owner Jeannie Nicolakis has received an Empire Award, New York state's highest honor for small businesses. The award was presented Friday by state Sen. James Skoufis, who represents the Hudson Valley's 39th District. The Empire Award is given to businesses that go out of their way to give back to the community.