CHENANGO COUNTY - Commerce Chenango will host its annual Awards Gala on Thursday evening, June 18 at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich.

The Gala is a celebration of businesses and business owners recognized for their accomplishments and achievements over the past year. The theme of this year's event is Stars of Our Community, and entertainment will be provided by Dano Wakefield.

"We are looking forward to honoring our award recipients at our Gala celebration," said Commerce Chenango President and CEO Sal Testani. "Not only will we honor the accomplishments and achievements of our distinguished award winners, but we will highlight and applaud their dedication to their businesses, employees, and Chenango County."

The event begins with networking at 5:00 p.m., followed by dinner and the presentation of awards at 6 p.m.

One of the most coveted awards, Entrepreneur of the Year, known as "The Sammy," is presented to an individual or business that demonstrates creativity, imagination, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Commerce Chenango thanks Mark Golden of Golden Artist Colors for continuing the tradition of providing the Sammy Award, named after his father and company founder Sam Golden, a true entrepreneur.

This year's award will be presented to Gilligan's. Founded and headquartered in Sherburne, Gilligan's has recently expanded its restaurant and wholesale ice cream services with the addition of Gilligan's Fresh Mart.

The Commitment to Community Award will be presented to The Christian Neighborhood Center of Norwich, Inc., doing business as The Place. This award is presented annually to a member whose mission and work visibly improve the quality of life in Chenango County. For more than 40 years, The Place has served youth and young adults through an established continuum of research-based programs designed to prepare them for college, career, and citizenship.

Oliver's Campers is the 2026 recipient of the Small Business of the Year Award. Each year, this award is presented to a standout organization that demonstrates excellence in business practices, a commitment to ethical standards, and strong employee support. In addition to impressive sales performance, Oliver's Campers maintains robust involvement in the local community.

Norwich Wealth Management and Partners is the recipient of the Member of the Year Award, which recognizes consistent growth, industry leadership, a commitment to quality and innovation, and meaningful contributions to the community and its economy. Norwich Wealth Management and Partners appears on both the 2025 and 2026 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams list, an honor that reflects their dedication to providing quality financial advice and investment planning. They are also reliable sponsors of community events and committed charitable donors.

Commerce Chenango thanks its 2026 Gala Sponsors, NBT Bank, NBT Wealth Management, and Blueox Energy. Attendees may register online through the events calendar at www.commercechenango.com or by emailing info@chenangony.org.