Written by Audrey Robinson, Director, Chenango County Tourism:

The very first Chamber summer event was initiated in the 1980’s. Entertainment that day included; volleyball, miniature golf, Frisbee, dunk tank, pitch tournament, music and dancing. Grand prize was airfare for 2 to Orlando, Florida. Cost for golf and the picnic at the Canasawacta Country Club was just $20.00. These types of events are not just another party. Our events provide a casual atmosphere for members to get together, as well as host people that do business with them, learn more about the Chamber and meet other members. This year’s Summer Golf Event at the Canasawacta Country Club on June 19th was sunny, the food was good, beverages were flowing and 23 teams came out to have fun, network and support the Chamber.

Sponsorship or donations are a necessity for most everything that a non-profit organization does. We could not continue to host the summer golf event, or the inaugural “Soiree-in-the-Park” in May, or even our monthly Business After Hours without the continued sponsorship of our members. The list of those who help to sponsor our events or activities is long. For the 2015 Summer Golf event, Chobani graciously agreed to be our title sponsor and we provided them with the Chobani logo on promotional items, signage, mention in all of our print materials, social media and radio spots. NBT-Mang provided complimentary beverages and snacks, lunch was provided by Raymond Corporation, Matthew’s Auto sponsored the hole-in-one (too bad nobody won the beautiful brand new car sitting on the 8th hole), and Frontier made sure everyone had a golf towel.

Recognition for first place went to Cwynar & Co, 2nd place went to The Mid-York Press, Inc. and third went to Coughlin & Gerhart; thanks to Business Machines & Equipment, Norwich-An Alvogen Company, and Canalside Services respectively for contributing to the cash prizes. Thanks to the TROPHY GUY and Sports Connection, the following contest winners received a trophy; closest to the pin- Bert Adam’s Jr. and Patti Cwynar, longest drive – Patti Cwynar and Steve Locke; and the putting contest, Art Godell. Other prizes were supplied by Staffworks, Blueox and Cwynar & Company. Congratulations to all of our award winners!

Tee-sign sponsors included Business Machines & Equipment, The Chazen Company, Chobani, Community Bank, The Eaton Center, Fred’s Inn Restaurant, Hayworth Companies, Irmin Mody Real Estate, NBT-Mang Insurance, Matthews Ford Norwich, The Mid-York Press, Inc., Park Place Restaurant, Piaker & Lyons, Raymond Corporation, sfcu, Staffworks, Steel Sales, and Worksite Solutions.

Commerce Chenango would like to thank Tim Carson and his well-organized team at the Canasawacta Country Club for a great golf tournament. The day ran smooth and was very relaxing for both the Commerce Chenango staff and our 92 guests and 7 volunteers. Thanks to the Community Bank staff and team Chobani for helping us with our day. We couldn’t have done it without you! If you missed golf this year, mark your calendars for June 10th, 2016 for Summer Golf Event #30.

Visit www.chenangony.org for more information on Commerce Chenango services and programs.