Recap of Greater Oswego-Fulton Chamber of Commerce virtual annual meeting

OSWEGO COUNTY, N.Y. — It was an event that included award presentations, a discussion between the mayors of Oswego and Fulton, remarks from New York Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul, and a focus on the theme of “Adapt, Innovate and Endure.”

The Greater Oswego-Fulton Chamber of Commerce (GOFCC) on Thursday hosted its virtual 2021 annual meeting. The GOFCC is an affiliate of CenterState CEO.

In her remarks, Katie Toomey, executive director of the GOFCC, highlighted the chamber’s programs and ongoing efforts to support members and drive economic recovery in the wake of the COVID-19 economic crisis.

“This past year, Oswego County faced unprecedented challenges, yet was able to meet this moment of crisis by focusing on partnerships and supporting each other as a community,” said Toomey. “Now as we work to accelerate our recovery, we do so knowing that we have the raw materials to achieve anything we set our collective sights to. The year ahead holds new opportunities and I look forward to working with our partners across the region to drive us toward our bold vision for a vibrant and growing community.”

The chamber presented three awards during the event. The organization recognized Oswego Health with the Community Investor Award. It also honored Chena Tucker, director of SUNY Oswego’s Office of Business and Community Relations with the Nancy L. Premo – Woman of Distinction Award. The chamber presented its President’s Award to Jill Abbott, owner of Uniforms Etc. and Zamp Marketing of Fulton.

The event also included a keynote discussion with Oswego Mayor Billy Barlow and Fulton Mayor Deana Michaels, which Robert Simpson, president and CEO of CenterState CEO, moderated.

“2020 was a challenging year to be sure, but the Oswego community stepped up,” said Barlow. “Despite all we had against us, we continued to make progress in our neighborhoods, throughout downtown, and all along our waterfront. In 2021, the challenges will continue, but I know our community partners, stakeholders, and residents will rise to meet the challenge. The City of Oswego stands ready to assist our business community and appreciate the help and resources CenterState CEO has provided to the Oswego community throughout the pandemic.”

“Fulton has proven time and again we have the toughness and endurance to weather any storm,” Michaels said. “With this pandemic however, there were simply no “how to” books to guide us. At first, we had to react to survive. But quickly we learned to pivot to a more proactive game plan. It was clear that our success as a community was going to depend on strong collaboration, adapting to the changes and finding innovative and sustainable solutions. We are doing just that, and I could not be more proud of our community efforts.”

In her remarks, New York Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul shared the state’s vision to “reimagine, rebuild and renew” New York.