2024 Annual Banquet and Awards Ceremony
2024 EVENT INFORMATION
Over 440 Chamber members and guests gathered at the Pavilion for the 103rd Chamber Annual Banquet. Registration went smoothly thanks to our volunteers: Jamie, Nicole, Megan, Matt, Judy and Registration sponsor Futivia! Our Coat Check, sponsored by Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois was managed by Take Action Today volunteers. The Ballroom and Expo areas looked beautiful thanks to the Hospitality sponsor visitsi and Decor sponsor Southern Illinois Rejuvenation Center. MHS FBLA students, hosted by Campbell Insurance, greeted attendees and helped them find their seats. Regional and state Chamber Directors were hosted by SIU School of Law.
The Social Hour, sponsored by Mayer Networks, included delicious Appetizers provided by Crystal’s Catering and sponsored by Vernell’s Interstate Service, fun photo opportunities at the 360PhotoBooth, sponsored by Banterra Bank and Commercial Janitorial Services. Attendees enjoyed live music from the Daniels Sons, sponsored by SIH.
Our Silent Auction spotlighted items provided by amazing fellow Chamber members and sponsored by AISIN Group and Golden Eagle Distributing. Proceeds from the Silent Auction and Duck Spree will go to the Chamber Foundation.
Our popular Wine & Spirit Pull sold out early and was sponsored by Farmers State Bank! Thank you to Julie and Amanda for managing this year’s pull. Attendees enjoyed sweet, savory, and classic flavors with our Signature Drinks – sponsored by Black Diamond Harley Davidson, First Southern Bank, and Futivia.
Dinner was provided by Crystal’s Catering, dessert is sponsored by SouthernTrust Bank and Coffee was hosted by Priority Staffing Group.
Our awards ceremony was filled with applause as we recognized 2023 award honorees:
Award of Excellence: Southern Illinois Chili Cook Off and Patricia Odum
Mayor’s Service Award: Sam Lattuca
Citizen of the Year Award: Dale Fowler
Distinguished Business Award: SIU Credit Union
Distinguished Member Award: Jeff Mayer
Lifetime Achievement: Harry L Crisp II & Vernell Sellars
Young Professional Leadership: Rachel Stroud
We were also honored to recognize those lost in the past year with our In Memoriam. Check out images of our honors and the night on the Annual Banquet More official pictures will be posted in the coming weeks.
In Person Silent Auction
Our Silent Auction spotlights great items provided by our members, community partners, and national vendors – including memorabilia, one of a kind items, jewelry, trips, and local items to enjoy all year round! Proceeds from the auction go to the Marion Chamber Foundation.
Thank you for everyone who took part!!