2026 Award Nominees

You Made It Happen Award

Given to a person, business, or organization that, through exceptional contributions and/or commitment, positively affects the Gaylord Community over the past year. 

Ellen Templeton, RISE: Otsego Substance Free
Ellen is honored to work with local youth and adults to prevent underage drug and alcohol use. Over the past year, she has secured sustainable funding, expanded drug-free events for hundreds of students, promoted safe drug storage and disposal, led a youth leadership trip to Washington, D.C., and mentored emerging peer leaders, work that strengthens a safer and healthier community.

Gaylord E-Free
The Gaylord Evangelical Free Church is being nominated for their extraordinary dedication and service during the 2025 ice storm. In a time of crisis, they opened their doors to the community, providing shelter, warm meals, and essential support to anyone in need. Their selfless commitment, tireless volunteer hours, and compassionate response brought comfort and safety to countless residents during one of our community’s most challenging moments.

Tony Dockery-Fobar, Gaylord Community Meal Program
The Gaylord Area Community Meal Program has experienced remarkable growth and renewal over the past decade, thanks in large part to Tony’s unwavering dedication. Ten years ago, the program was on the brink of closure, yet Tony’s commitment, leadership, and hard work revitalized its mission and helped it evolve into the thriving, impactful resource it is today. His efforts have been truly invaluable to its continued success.

Golden Pineapple Award

Honoring a member of the Chamber of Commerce for their exceptional customer service.

Food n Stuff
A consistently bustling breakfast and lunch establishment, this team demonstrates exceptional dedication and positivity. Even during their busiest and most stressful moments, they continue to work efficiently and greet customers with genuine warmth. Beyond their daily operations, they remain deeply engaged in the community through off-hours catering and by providing team dinners for GHS athletes. Their commitment to service is evident in everything they do.

Alpine Tavern & Eatery
Alpine Tavern continually demonstrates what true service excellence looks like. Their reliability, flexibility, and genuine care for both customers and the community make them a standout partner in Gaylord. this business truly shows an outstanding commitment to exceptional service and unwavering hospitality.

Munson OMH - Emergency Department
The Emergency Department for their remarkable achievement in significantly reducing emergency room wait times and lowering the rate of patients leaving without being seen by an outstanding 75%. This accomplishment reflects an exceptional level of dedication, teamwork, and commitment to patient-centered care. This is truly exceptional customer service and a tremendous benefit to our entire community.

Daune Weiss Memorial - Business Person of the Year Award

 Given to a business owner or manager who best exemplifies Daune Weiss' generosity in giving time, money, staff and/or facilities for community benefit. 

Patrick Bernard, Tommy’s Express Car Wash
Patrick consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every customer has an outstanding experience. When challenges arise, he does everything in his power to make things right, demonstrating true dedication to service. Beyond his workplace contributions, Patrick invests his own personal time volunteering throughout the community by supporting Alpenfest, assisting with local events, and even helping build an ADA-accessible playground with the VFW.

Joe Messenger & Rachel Smith, Gaylord Community Funeral Home
They give back to our community in countless meaningful ways—through generous program sponsorships, dedicated volunteer efforts at local events, and unwavering support for our veterans. Their ongoing commitment to service and community enrichment makes them truly deserving of this recognition.

Trevor Burroughs, Action Motor Sales
He has shown exceptional generosity and community support through significant charitable contributions. His donation of a bus to Otsego Christian School provided reliable transportation for students and greatly enhanced their access to activities and events. His consistent willingness to give back makes him an invaluable asset to our community.

Gordon G. Everett - Bell Tower Award 

Recognizing new construction and/or renovation projects that best exemplify investment in Otsego County with consideration of maintaining the Alpine spirit and theme.

Lisa’s Tavern
For their thoughtful renovation of a historic downtown location, preserving its character while enhancing it with authentic alpine-inspired design and charm.

Mulligans at the Bluffs
For their new construction that not only expands business opportunities but also contributes to local economic growth and increased revenue for the community. Their space thoughtfully blends development with inclusivity—offering fun activities for both residents and visitors to enjoy while dining and lodging locally.

Otsego Christian School
For their impressive new addition, a project that significantly enhances educational opportunities within our community. This expansion reflects their ongoing commitment to providing a supportive, enriching environment where students can grow, learn, and thrive.

The Gaylord Area Chamber of Commerce's Annual Award Banquet is an event that aims to recognize excellence in our community. Chamber Members nominate and vote for fellow Chamber Members to acknowledge outstanding achievements.