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Marion Chamber Hosts Third Annual “State of the City” Luncheon: Celebrating Growth, Community, and Future Plans

The Marion Chamber of Commerce welcomed community leaders, business members, and guests to its third annual State of the City luncheon at The Pavilion. The event, held in collaboration with sponsor First Southern Bank, provided a platform to reflect on the city’s progress, highlight key community achievements, and look ahead to the opportunities awaiting Marion in 2024 and beyond.

A Warm Welcome and Opening Ceremonies

The program began promptly at noon with a warm welcome from Toni Perkins of US Bank, who served as the event emcee and Executive Board representative. Her opening remarks set the stage for an afternoon of celebration, reflection, and information sharing. Guests were invited to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. Following the pledge, John Holst, representing Zion United Church of Christ, delivered the invocation. Holst’s thoughtful prayer reminded attendees of the importance of collaboration, wonderment, gratitude, and service to the community. The spiritual tone underscored the luncheon’s purpose: uniting Marion’s leaders in a shared vision for continued prosperity.

Luncheon Sponsor: First Southern Bank

Immediately following the invocation, Matt Carnaghi, Chamber Board 2nd Vice Chair, introduced the luncheon sponsor, First Southern Bank. Carnaghi expressed gratitude for the bank’s ongoing partnership and commitment to the Chamber. In a generous gesture, First Southern Bank opted to forgo their time to allow the luncheon to focus on Mayor Michael Absher’s highly anticipated State of the City presentation.

“First Southern Bank is so excited to hear what’s new in Marion that they’ve graciously allowed us to jump straight into today’s topic,” Carnaghi said. “2024 has been an exciting year of change and growth in Marion, and we’re honored to host our third annual State of the City presentation with Mayor Michael Absher.”

State of the City: Marion’s Continued Growth and Vision

Mayor Michael Absher delivered an engaging, forward-looking presentation that painted a bright picture of Marion’s future. Mayor Absher outlined key accomplishments from the past year and shared his administration’s strategic goals for 2025. He highlighted economic development milestones, infrastructure improvements, and new business openings that have contributed to Marion’s growth.

Attendees were presented with a PowerPoint slide deck showcasing data, visuals, and projects that underscored Marion’s ongoing transformation. Topics included downtown revitalization efforts, investments in public infrastructure, and community-driven initiatives to enhance quality of life for residents. Mayor Absher emphasized the importance of partnerships between local businesses, government, and citizens in achieving shared success.

A full video of the presentation can be found on the Chamber’s You Tube Channel: https://youtu.be/mNL5g8_VahA

Chamber Announcements and Recognition

Following Mayor Absher’s presentation, Toni Perkins took the stage once again to deliver important Chamber announcements. First on the agenda was the 2025-2027 Board Election results. Toni invited the newly elected board members to stand as the audience applauded their upcoming service:

• Jared Garrison
• John Holst
• Whitney Stringer
• Amanda Throgmorton

Perkins also recognized outgoing board members for their past contributions to the Chamber. She expressed gratitude to Ashley Gott, who will continue to work on the Chamber Foundation Board, as well as Matt Monchino and Alicia Davis for their dedication and hard work.

“Your leadership has been instrumental to the Chamber’s success,” Toni remarked. “We’re excited to continue building on your legacy.”

Annual Banquet and Award Announcements

The Chamber used the luncheon as an opportunity to preview its upcoming Annual Banquet and Awards Ceremony, scheduled for January 17, 2025. Toni encouraged members to participate in the banquet’s Silent Auction, Wine/Spirit Pull, and the “Taste of Marion: Wall of Fun.”

While most annual awards will be presented during the banquet, the Chamber announced two special honorees during the luncheon:

• Award of Excellence: Jon Wofford for his leadership and dedication to Chamber projects, as well as Connect 360 for its work in promoting inclusivity and supporting underrepresented groups in the community.
• Lifetime Achievement Awards: Glenn Clarida and Cindy Gibbons were honored for their remarkable contributions. Clarida’s storied career has mirrored Marion’s economic success, while Gibbons was recognized for over 40 years of service to the Chamber and the broader community.

Member Impact Group and Community Highlights

Matt Carnaghi returned to deliver the Member Impact Group Report, sharing updates on upcoming Chamber events, programs, and membership initiatives:

1. 2025 Membership Renewals: Members were reminded to check their inboxes as renewals roll out using the Chamber’s new system.
2. 2025 Luncheons and Events: Exciting programs and sponsorship opportunities remain available for 2025. Carnaghi encouraged members to get involved early.
3. Engagement Opportunities: Members were invited to explore ways to align Chamber events with their organization’s goals and values.

Carnaghi also invited members to take part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Complete Eyecare of Marion on December 30^th to mark the retirement of Dr. Powers. He also welcomed new Chamber members:

• Complete Eyecare of Marion – Madyson Locke
• Wisper Internet – Carrie Haas & Jacob Wiman
• Byrd-Watson Scrubs and Medical – Melynda Breeze

Business Advocacy Task Force

Carnaghi also provided an update on recent and upcoming programs. He celebrated the success of the Bite of Reality event, organized in partnership with SIU Credit Union. Designed to teach students financial life lessons, the event could not have succeeded without dedicated volunteers.

Upcoming highlights included the Marion High School FBLA Career Fair on February 14th and the National Civics Bee, with a submission deadline of February 4th. Carnaghi encouraged attendees to volunteer as mentors or judges, reinforcing the Chamber’s commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders.

Luck of the Draw and Closing Remarks

As the event neared its close, attendees enjoyed the popular Luck of the Draw raffle. Amy Eckert ticket was drawn for a chance at the pall, but unfortunately pulled a yellow ball and the pot will roll to the next month. She did go home with an amazing prize from Eagles Nest by the Lake: a “Buy One, Get One” night stay certificate.

Toni Perkins wrapped up the luncheon with heartfelt thanks to the program’s sponsors and hosts:

• First Southern Bank for sponsoring the event.
• The Pavilion for hosting.
• Taste of Bev for providing a delicious lunch.

Perkins reminded attendees that the Chamber’s next luncheon will take place on February 11, 2025, following the Annual Banquet.

Looking Ahead

The State of the City luncheon served as a testament to Marion’s thriving business community, forward momentum, and shared commitment to growth. With new board leadership, impactful programs, and strong partnerships, the Marion Chamber of Commerce looks ahead to 2025 as another year of progress and opportunity for the city.