The Iola Area Chamber of Commerce is preparing to celebrate local businesses and community leaders at its annual awards dinner on April 9 at the Riverside Park Community Building.
Cocktails will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 and an awards presentation to recognize excellence across several categories.
This year’s honors include Excellence in Customer Service, Excellent Club or Organization, Visionary Leader Award, Community Support Champion and Business of the Year.
Chamber Executive Director Kelly Sigg said the event is an opportunity to highlight the strength of Iola’s business community.
“I think it’s important that we do a really good job working together,” Sigg said. “Voting for your peers and recognizing your peers in the business world is a way of supporting each other.”
Winners are selected through a multi-step process that begins with a 10-member nominating committee, followed by a vote of chamber members. Voting is currently underway and will close Friday.
IN ADDITION to the awards, attendees can expect a full evening of food and entertainment. Catering will be provided by Simple Soiree and a cash bar will be operated by Sharky’s.
Sigg said this year’s theme, “Iola Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism: Where the Magic Begins,” ties directly into the featured entertainment, the magician Parker William.
“He’ll work the crowd throughout the evening and then do a short show after the awards ceremony.”
William, a Minneapolis-based performer, has entertained audiences at corporate events and major venues across the Midwest over the past decade.
THE EVENING will also include additional activities, such as a raffle featuring a patio bistro set donated by Walmart and a “bottle spin” game with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic prizes.
Tickets are $25 each, and reservations must be made by 4 p.m. Friday, March 27. Reservations can be made by calling 620-365-5252 or emailing kelly.sigg@iolachamber.org.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available, including one entertainment sponsorship and two table sponsorships, but must also be secured by Friday.
“Our chamber members know what running a business involves,” said Sigg. “Being recognized by your peers makes it even more meaningful.”
