NORWICH – Commerce Chenango had the chance to honor its 2014 Small Business Award winners on Thursday during the organization’s annual Salute to Small Business Dinner at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich.

Each year, the annual gala serves as an opportunity to laud small business owners as the backbone of the local economy. Commerce Chenango recognized three distinguished business owners in three separate categories during this year’s event. Awards included Entrepreneur of the Year (presented to Matt Lagoe of Heartwood Frame in Sherburne), Small Business of the Year (presented to Giltner’s Paint and Floor Covering in Norwich), and Small Business Gem (presented to Garf’s Deli in Norwich).

This year’s recipients were further recognized by State Assemblyman Clifford Crouch as well as Norwich Mayor Joseph Maiurano on behalf of the City of Norwich.

“I think it’s safe to say there’s really no harder working group of people than those who are toiling in the vineyards of small business,” said Commerce Chenango President and CEO Steve Craig. “Part of the reason it’s tough to get them to go to Commerce Chenango events is because they’re still working at this time most nights.”

Matt Lagoe, named this year’s Entrepreneur of the Year, started his venture as Heartwood Forest Products, a full service millwork and cabinetry shop located in a manufacturing facility in Sherburne. While the business offers a variety of mouldings, exterior wood sidings, flooring, stairs and stair parts, Lagoe only recently found a niche in handmade custom frames that have earned him credibility among artists, photographers, and gallery owners nationwide.