The Greater Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated a night of recognition, reflection, and community pride Thursday evening during its 85th Annual Banquet at the Benson Center.
The event brought together local business leaders, community members, and elected officials to honor achievements and look ahead to the future. Dinner was catered by Applegate’s Catering Company, with beverage service provided by Primitive Olde Crow & Winery.
Chamber Director David Lee served as Master of Ceremonies. The evening opened with the Clinton High School JROTC presenting the colors, followed by the National Anthem performed by Karli Sargent and Matthew Wombles of Clinton Christian Academy. Monty Stratton of Clinton Methodist Church delivered the invocation.
Following dinner, several community leaders addressed attendees, including Clinton Mayor Carla Moberly and representatives from the Chamber’s Ambassadors and Childcare committees. Outgoing 2025 Chamber Board President Sabrina Harris also spoke, later joining Joyce Carr in presenting a Years of Service plaque to Daniel Dody for his contributions to the Chamber’s Board of Directors. Dody was unable to attend.
Several prestigious awards were presented during the evening. Chester Jones was named Volunteer of the Year, while the late Mike Keith was honored as Citizen of the Year. Pizza Glen received Business of the Year honors as the longtime establishment celebrates 50 years in business.
The banquet also included the induction of the newest members into the “Olde Glory Days Hall of Fame,” recognizing individuals who have dedicated more than three decades to organizing Clinton’s annual Fourth of July celebration. The 2026 inductees include Paul Barbee, Scott Bernard, Gene Henry, and Barb and Jerry Mosley, though the Mosleys were unable to attend. Organizers also noted this year’s Olde Glory Days celebration is scheduled for July 1st through 5th.
Looking ahead, Jared Goodbrake was introduced as the Chamber’s 2026 Board President, sharing his theme for the year: “Together Toward Tomorrow.” Donnie Kuck will serve as President-Elect, with Sabrina Harris moving into the role of Past President. The Board of Directors also includes Scott Bernard, Steve Bradley, John French, Amber Hansen, Jim Huenefeldt, Landon Modlin, Tammy Nadler, Jeff Stone, Lori Taber, and Roger House representing the City of Clinton.
Chamber staff David Lee and Joyce Carr will continue their leadership roles, as the organization builds on a year that saw 23 new businesses, individuals, and organizations join its membership in 2025.
The evening also highlighted community milestones, including recognition of Dave Garnett’s career ahead of his retirement, presented by Dillon Oder of Hawthorn Bank, and Kathy Shoemaker’s career following the sale of RE/MAX Truman Lake Realty, highlighted by Sarah Wilson.
Mike Meyers, 2026 President of Clinton Main Street, provided an update on upcoming downtown events and initiatives. The organization also honored Stacey Hinkle with a plaque recognizing her service and leadership as past president.
The evening concluded with prize giveaways, including food certificates from Holly’s Kitchen, El Puerto, and Joe’s Catering, along with a gift certificate from the Chamber of Commerce.
The annual banquet once again highlighted the strong partnerships and community spirit that continue to drive Clinton forward.
