2025 EVENT INFORMATION

Around 400 Chamber members and guests gathered at the Pavilion for the 104th Chamber Annual Banquet on January 17th 2025. Registration went smoothly thanks to our volunteers: Megan, Mary Beth, Matt, Judy and Registration sponsor Clearwave Fiber! Our Coat Check, sponsored by Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois was managed by Boys and Girls Clubs of Southern Illinois  volunteers. The Ballroom and Expo areas looked beautiful thanks to the Hospitality sponsor visitsi and committee volunteers. MHS FBLA and ROTS students, hosted by Campbell Insurance, greeted attendees and presented the Colors to kick off the event. Regional and state Chamber Directors were hosted by Deaconess Illinois.

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 SIU Credit Union. Attendees enjoyed live music from the Joy Brooker, sponsored by James Arthur Design Company.

Our Silent Auction and Wall of Fun (New for 2025) spotlighted items provided by amazing fellow Chamber members and sponsored by AISIN Group and Golden Eagle Distributing. Proceeds from the Silent Auction, Wall of Fun, 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 2024 award honorees:

Award of Excellence: Connect 360 and Jon Wofford
Mayor’s Service Award: Marion Connects
Citizen of the Year Award: Aur Beck
Distinguished Business Award: Interstate Tire Pros Auto Service 
Distinguished Member Award: Melise Oakley
Lifetime Achievement: Glenn Clarida and Cindy Gibbons
Young Professional Leadership: Cody Moake

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!!

In Memoriam