MYRIAM GONZALEZ
To “Celebrate Springtown” — the theme for this year’s annual gala — the Springtown Area Chamber of Commerce will honor those who keep the community spirit alive during its evening banquet Friday, March 6 at the Covered Bridge Venue located at 2250 Agnes Circle in Springtown.
Executive Director Sharon Johnson said this year’s message centers on “pride of place,” adding that she hopes attendees leave with a renewed sense of pride in the community where they live and work.
“We want people to leave feeling proud of our local businesses, our volunteers and the community spirit that makes Springtown special,” she said. “It isn’t just about awards, it is about recognizing the everyday contributions that keep our town thriving and reminding people that what we build here, we build together.”
Since assuming the position of executive director in December, Johnson and her team have remained committed to strengthening business relationships and listening to community feedback — a commitment she wanted to reflect in the planning of this year’s banquet.
“We have a great committee that has listened to feedback from the past and we are excited to have focused on a few intentional improvements this year,” Johnson said. “We have worked to make the program more streamlined in hopes of keeping the evening moving, while also ensuring there is time for engagement and connection among attendees.”
Throughout the evening, guests will dine on cuisine prepared by chef Trent Shaw and catered by The Corn Fed Club as they celebrate recipients of the following award categories:
- Business of the Year
- Organization of the Year
- Chamber Member of the Year
- Judy Smerud Spirit of Springtown Award
Johnson said the gala is the kickoff to a year that’s “setting a positive, forward-looking tone focused on connection, growth and collaboration.” The program will also include time to introduce new board members, offering them an opportunity to network and meet attendees.
“It is also when we welcome any new board members, which is always exciting because it brings fresh eyes and new ideas to help move the chamber’s work forward. Together, that mix of celebration and new leadership creates momentum we can carry into the rest of the year,” Johnson said.
The celebration will begin at 7 p.m. and business professional attire is encouraged. To register for the event visit https://springtownchamber.chambermaster.com/eventregistration/register/993.
