NORWICH — Commerce Chenango will host its annual awards Gala on Thursday evening, June 8, at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich. The Gala is a celebration of businesses and individuals chosen for their accomplishments and achievements this past year.

The Gala’s presenting sponsor is NBT Bank and is supported by Excellus BCBS, LaBella, Laral Management, GHS Federal Credit Union, Preferred Mutual Insurance Company, Principle Design Engineering, and Golden Artist Colors.

“I am looking forward to honoring our award recipients at our June 8 Gala celebration,” noted Commerce Chenango President and CEO, Sal Testani. “Not only will we honor the accomplishments and achievements of our distinguished award winners, but we will applaud all of our members that work tirelessly to support Commerce Chenango and Chenango County.”

The Commitment to Community Award will be presented to ACHIEVE. This award is given annually to the member whose mission and work visibly improve the quality of life in Chenango County.

Founded in 1952 in Broome County by 10 families seeking social and educational opportunities for their disabled children, ACHIEVE now operates 28 sites across three counties, offering an array of support and services to over 2,200 individuals annually, with approximately 450 employees. A new project set for completion in Chenango County in late 2023 will significantly impact the entire community.

Lewis’ Restaurant in Sherburne is the 2023 recipient of the Small Business of the Year. The award is presented to a standout organization that exhibits excellence, best business practices, and commitment to both ethical business practices and employee support.

This family-owned business has been serving delicious Italian food for 70-plus years. Change is inevitable, and some things are gone forever; yet some things remain. The iconic Lighthouse that sits in front of the restaurant has helped to mark Lewis’ spot in the Sherburne community for decades.

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

This year’s award will be presented to The Cirello Family.

The Cirello Family was chosen to receive the Entrepreneur of the Year award based upon the continuing success of their three businesses, the dedication and reliability of their staff, the ability to respond to a changing business environment, and the continuous support of the Chenango County community.

Fred’s Inn was purchased in 1977 by Armando “Chick” Cirello who currently owns and operates the business with his partner and son, David. In 1998, six upscale guest rooms were added to the property. Two years later Fred’s Inn was home to 25 guest rooms with various amenities. Fred’s Inn is now home to 25 spacious guest rooms.

Park Place Sports Bar and Grill, located on East Park in downtown Norwich, was purchased in April 2009 by Chick and David Cirello. They continually provide a place in the heart of downtown Norwich and are a huge part of all of the downtown events and activities.

Dickie’s Barbecue was added to the Cirello’s repertoire of eateries in 2022.

NBT Bank, recipient of the Member of Distinction award, recognizes consistent growth and is considered a leader in their industry, makes continuous improvements to quality and innovation, and contributes to the community and its economy. NBT’s support throughout our communities sets the standard for a business that cares about everyone big and small and provides support to all.

NBT Bank's roots go back to 1856, when a group of business leaders in Norwich saw a need for additional banking resources in the community and came together to form a bank. Fast forward 167 years and NBT Bancorp Inc. is now a financial holding company headquartered in Norwich. The Company primarily operates through NBT Bank, N.A., a full-service community bank, and through two financial services companies. NBT Bank, N.A. has 140 banking locations throughout the Northeast.

Registration begins at 5 p.m. with a 6 p.m. start time for dinner, awards, and entertainment. The cost to attend is $60. Visit CommerceChenango.com and click on "Events" for more information.

Organized in 1959, Commerce Chenango is a not-for-profit, community-based organization

Visit our new website at CommerceChenango.com for more information on future programming and services.

-Information provided by Commerce Chenango