Lights, Camera, We're in Action!
87th Annual Chamber Banquet Draws Hundreds of Local Celebrities

The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development’s 87th Annual Banquet Feb. 4 at the Highland Convention Center was the red-carpet event of the year. The event, appropriately titled, “Lights, Camera, We’re in Action,” headlined all of the successes that happened in 2008, as well as all the things planned in 2009 that keep community members “in action.” Hundreds of local business members attended the annual gala to celebrate 2008’s business-community efforts, which included recognition for “Business and Citizen of the Year” awards.

Great Bend performing group “Adoration” floored banquet attendees with a beautiful A Cappella version of the Star Spangled Banner. Group members include Erika Brining, Becky Boese, Lonna Henderson, and Keela Jackson.

The evening included a social, dinner, the annual Chamber business meeting with presentations and announcements, and a dance featuring the band, The Exceptions. Community servant Sheryl Cheely was named Chamber and Economic Development “Citizen of the Year” for her outstanding efforts in community leadership. Benefit Management, Inc. was named Chamber and Economic Development “Business of the Year” for their commitment to excellence in 2008.

Local performing group “Adoration” floored banquet attendees with an A Cappella rendition of the Star Spangled Banner, followed by an encore performance of Amazing Grace. Rev. Gary Brooks with the First United Methodist Church gave the invocation for the banquet.

Retiring Board Chairman Mark Mingenback passes the buck to incoming Board Chairman Dan Brungardt during the 87th Annual Chamber Banquet.

A short video, produced by and featuring local KSN news anchor Kera Mashek, highlighted many of the exciting things that happened in 2008.

Past Chairman of the Board Mark Mingenback, along with outgoing board members Lores Appel, Bob Dema, Robin Fabricius, Nancy Francis, and Nick Gregory were recognized with awards. Also recognized were outgoing Chamber Ambassador Chairman Sherry Langrehr as well as Steve Johnson, who ended his tenure with the Ambassadors.

Mingenback outlined the successes of the organization in 2008 and incoming Board chair Dan Brungardt provided information about what Great Bend can look forward to in the upcoming year.

Hundreds of local business members attended the red-carpet event at the Highland Convention Center in Great Bend.

Pending highlights for this year include the new Cheyenne Bottoms Interpretive Center, the Raptor Rehabilitation Center at Brit Spaugh Zoo, and more MyTown store openings.

Mark your calendars for the 88th Annual Meeting & Banquet scheduled February 12, 2010!