Record crowd expected for annual Jackson chamber banquet

The Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce is expecting to see its largest crowd at the annual banquet Friday at the Bavarian Halle.

Nearly 500 reservations had been made as of Wednesday afternoon, said Brian Gerau, the chamber's director.

"This is our marquee event of the year," Gerau said, "and we are really excited that this looks like it will be the biggest one we've had."

The chamber has seen attendance at the event grow in the last several years; about 400 people came last year.

The chamber holds the event in conjunction with the Jackson Industrial Development Co., a local economic and industrial development organization.

Chamber members decorate tables for the event and gifts are given to attendees on a first-come, first-served basis. There is often a rush to be the first to arrive because of the donated items attendees can receive in "swag bags," Gerau said.

The chamber recognizes local businesses with awards in several categories. Specially produced videos shown during the event profile the businesses and their accomplishments.

This year's winners, according to the chamber, include:

• Wings, Etc. as Business of the Year
• Custom Cut Fabrication as Industry of the Year
• Kelly Darby of Modern Woodmen of America as Ambassador of the Year
• Siemer's Best Brands Plus Appliance as Small Business of the Year

The R.A. Fulenwider Meritorious Community Service Award also is presented to a person recognized for making contributions to the community. Last year the award went to Dr. Dwight Johnson, a longtime Jackson dentist. This year's recipient will be announced during the banquet.

The chamber also installs new board members during the banquet.

The event begins with an open-bar happy hour sponsored by Liberty Utilities at 5:30 p.m. Ray's of Kelso is catering the dinner, which starts at 6:30 p.m. Dinner is sponsored by the Jackson Industrial Development Co.

Robinson Construction is the event's main sponsor.

Tickets cost $25 and were available on a limited basis Wednesday. More information is available by calling 243-8131.

eragan@semissourian.com

388-3632

Pertinent address:

225 Drury Lane, Jackson, MO

125 E. Main St., Jackson, MO