NORWICH – In 1980 Mark Golden founded Golden Artists Colors.

Today, the company, based in Columbus, sells its products in over 60 countries. It employs 220 area residents as employee-owners with well paying jobs.

Over the last four decades, the company has drawn influences of art and culture from across the globe to Chenango County.

A symbol of this can be found just inside the company headquarters at 188 Bell Road, which features a public art gallery, often hosting both local and visiting professional artists.

In 1997 the artistic effect on the local community was further amplified when Golden, with others, founded the The Sam & Adele Golden Foundation for the Arts. The a not-for-profit charity, among many other things, has dedicated itself to promoting area art. It hosts renown artists' residencies in Columbus and funds many events and programs.

The Baden-Powell Council of the Boy Scouts of America selected Golden as the 2019 Distinguished Citizen of the Year for his outstanding achievements in Chenango County and our local communities.

Golden's long-time personal assistant Lu Dick said he always treated everyone with a sense of friendly respect.

With half-joking disbelief, she recalled a memory of first coming to work for the company.