Chamber Dinner a gala affair

A town devastated by a tornado (almost to the day) three years ago, Harrisburg put on a smiling face and looked hopefully to the future Saturday evening at the Saline County Annual Chamber of Commerce Banquet.

The keynote speaker, 2015 President Scott Stout said in his speech, "Saline County grew each and every day under Ayn's (Bartok, 2014 President) leadership. We want to continue that growth in 2015."

Stout spoke of the need to support local businesses and announced some upcoming events.

"We are having a Kentucky Derby Party this year at Morello's, the Wing-A-Ma-Jig will be held for its third year, so get involved, communicate with your fellow members."

Stout said the chamber hopes to book a main musical act for this year's Wing-A-Ma-Jig.

"We want to bring in new business, but we are here to support those who are already here."

Stout offered thanks to Southeastern Illinois College's support of local business.

"We have to thank SIC. Without them there would probably be no Chamber. Special thanks to (Chamber Executive Director) Lori Cox."

He added, "The Chamber needs you as much as you need the Chamber."

The Chamber's Large Business of the Year was the City of Harrisburg. Medium Business of the Year was Peoples National Bank. Small Business of the Year was Gypsy Moon Boutique.