CANTON -- The St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce will honor Fourth Coast Entertainment, Mort Backus and Sons and River Myst Winery Nov. 5.

The Business of the Year award is going to Michael Scriminger, owner and producer of Fourth Coast Entertainment, a free monthly publication covering events and features in a 150-mile radius of Canton.

“Fourth Coast Entertainment provides print and media services for the local entertainment industry. Mike has worked very hard at making a strong product that supports an industry that has been overlooked. Due to his hard work and commitment, the music industry in the region is now growing,” the chamber said in a prepared statement.

As Fourth Coast Entertainment celebrates its 10th year in business, they have launched a new website with entertainment opportunities, including recreation, through what the chamber describes as an easy-to-use calendar.

“The online and print publication provides an avenue for artists, musicians and entertainers to connect and promote themselves as well as offering a place for those looking for entertainment to be able to find venues and shows they'd like to attend,” the chamber said. “As a musician and co-owner of the local band Waydown Wailers, Mike’s passion and expertise in entertainment and its promotion comes alive in his work, and opens opportunities for an entire sector of the economy.”

The Customer Service Excellence award will recognize Mort Backus & Sons of Ogdensburg, a 60-year-old family-owned and operated Buick and Chevrolet dealership.

“Customers constantly rave about their experiences at the dealership, exemplifying the family values noted on their website that were passed down from Mort and Marie Backus, to ‘sell a quality product and then do your absolute best to take care of that product. Treat the customer the way you would like to be treated yourself,’” the chamber said. “One of the nominations notes that ‘this business knows most of their customers by name, but they never push a sale. They take the time to help customers understand the work that needs to be done on their vehicle, and give quotes prior to working on the car, without any pressure.’”

A new award this year recognizes the Local Producer of the Year, going to River Myst Winery.

“We put a lot of effort at the Chamber into supporting our smaller entrepreneurs who are creating products. Our hope is that the marketing, sales, training and advocacy work we do for this sector will enable them to grow, represent the uniqueness of our area and become viable businesses in our economy,” chamber director Brooke Rouse said.

Owners Randy and Denise LaMay opened River Myst Winery in Lisbon in March 2007, turning a hobby into a business. They have grown tremendously, now employing five people in addition to family members. “Customers have become loyal to their favorite wines and the service and atmosphere provided at the winery,” the chamber said. “One nomination noted that ‘River Myst has expanded their business as well as been a great influence on expanding other wineries in the area. A lot of hard work went into the St. Lawrence County Wine Trail and Randy is the driving force behind this.’ Partnering with the other wineries for the collaborative marketing and attraction opportunity, Randy has exhibited his commitment to boosting the entire craft beverage industry in the county, opening economic gateways and elevating awareness for local products.”

The St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce celebrates 50 years this year. The annual dinner will be held at SUNY Potsdam on Thursday, Nov. 5, beginning with a silent auction and cocktail hour at 6 p.m., followed by dinner, awards and a live auction. Reservations are required by Monday, Nov. 2.

For more information on the winners and programs of the St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce, visit www.NorthCountryGuide.com or call 386-4000.