The Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2026 Annual Awards Banquet on Friday evening, Jan. 30, at the Cleveland Civic Center, 210 Peach Ave.
The annual event, themed “Casino Night in Cleveland,” is one of the Chamber’s premier gatherings and brought together business owners, community leaders and elected officials for an evening focused on recognition, civic engagement and networking.
The Cleveland Civic Center was decorated to reflect the casino theme while maintaining the formal atmosphere of the banquet. Attendees arrived dressed in business formal, evening wear and casino-inspired attire. Throughout the evening, guests participated in casino-style games, and a photo booth was available for commemorative photographs.
“This year, in addition to our annual awards, the Greater Cleveland Chamber wanted to add an additional aspect of fun with a casino night,” said Victoria Good, chief operating officer for the Chamber. “The theme and casino games were well received, and attendees commented on the success of the evening.”
Dinner was catered by Italiano’s and included a full meal. Dessert was served later in the evening and featured brownies and cannolis.
The formal program included the presentation of the Chamber’s annual awards, recognizing individuals and organizations for leadership, service and contributions to the Cleveland community.
“While the annual event is our biggest fundraiser, it also serves as an opportunity to honor and recognize local business and community members,” Good said. “We award the ‘Best of’ awards, including Business of the Year, Jean Noble McAdams Volunteer of the Year and Non-Profit of the Year, but we also recognize community business awards like Best New Business and Best Customer Service.”
Good noted that community business awards are nominated and voted on by the public and are not limited to Chamber members.
“We started this a few years ago so we could show appreciation to all businesses,” she said. “We truly believe in the power of community and hope that all businesses feel appreciated and welcomed.”
Brian Garcia was recognized for his service as outgoing chair of the Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce. Kari Duggar and David Martin were honored as outgoing directors for their time and commitment to the Chamber’s leadership. Martin also received the Chairman’s Choice Award.
Melanie Garcia was named Ambassador of the Year for her involvement and representation of the Chamber. Melanie Hunter received the Jean Noble McAdams Volunteer of the Year Award, recognizing her dedication to volunteer service. David Hunter was honored with the Alfred G. Anderson Citizen of the Year Award for his contributions to the community.
Additional honors included the Cleveland Senior Citizens Organization as Non-Profit of the Year, Pace Stancil Funeral Home as Business of the Year and Leal’s Storage Deals Resale Shop as Best New Business. The Flower Shop received the award for Best Customer Service, while Sinful Southern Belles was recognized for Best Storefront.
Several local and county officials attended the banquet, including Liberty County Sheriff Bobby Rader, Liberty County District Attorney Jennifer Bergman and Precinct 6 Constable Zack Harkness, along with other elected officials and community leaders.
Good also thanked the event’s sponsors, board members, banquet committee and volunteers for their support in making the evening a success.
The Annual Awards Banquet is hosted each year by the Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce to recognize leadership, business excellence and community involvement throughout the Cleveland area.