The Centralia Chamber of Commerce has announced plans for its 100th Annual Banquet as well as those who will receive special awards.
The banquet will be held on Thursday, February 8th, at the Centralia American Legion.
The theme of this year’s presentations is Centralia’s Past, Present, and Future. Featured speaker Tom Hawkins will speak on the present state of Centralia. Assistant Chamber Director Matthew Packman will discuss the past, and City Manager Kory Smith will present on Centralia’s future.
Centralia Chamber of Commerce Director Marcus Holland says they are excited to have Tom Hawkins as the featured presenter to highlight how much progress is being made in Centralia. Holland notes Hawkins has a unique perspective as a retired superintendent, community leader, and past president of the Centralia Chamber.
Kaskaskia College will be honored with the Legacy Award for its decades of education and community service. The City of Centralia and Fabcoat are this year’s recipients of the Partners in Progress Awards.
Previous president of the Centralia Chamber’s Board of Directors, Emily Haake, will receive the Past Presidents Award. Outgoing board members Haake, Travis Etheridge, and Monica French will each receive the Retiring Board Members Award.
“We hope the community will join us for a fun evening celebrating the 100th anniversary of the chamber,” said Holland. “We would like to congratulate our award winners and thank each of our sponsors, all of which make this event possible.”
The public is invited to attend. A social hour will be held at 6:00 PM, presentations, dinner, and awards at 7:00 PM, and then the Balloon POP! Before 9:00 PM. Tickets are $45 per person or $320 for a table of eight and may be purchased by contacting the chamber at office@centraliachamber.com.
