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The Andalusia Area Chamber of Commerce will recognize businesses and individuals with awards at its annual banquet on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, at the Kiwanis Community Center.

This year’s theme is “Winners in the Wild” with a rainforest theme. Individual tickets are $50 for chamber members and $75 for general admission. Tables may be reserved through selection of one of the following packages: Platinum: $2000 – premier reserved seating for 16 with voice recognition and company logo on stage, Gold: $1000 – premier reserved seating for 12 and voice recognition, Silver: $750 – reserved seating for eight and voice recognition, and Bronze: $500 – reserved seating for four and voice recognition.

“We are looking forward to our annual banquet where we will pay tribute to the individuals and businesses that are making a difference in our community. We will also celebrate the highlights and accomplishments of the chamber over the last year,” AACC Executive Director Mellisa King said.

Social hour will begin at 5:30 p.m. before dinner is served during a safari of success at 6:30 p.m. followed by the awards presentation ceremony.

Willie Spears, a motivational speaker from Panama City, Florida, will serve as the guest speaker for the event. An author, educator, licensed minister, and football coach, Spears brings a passionate, energetic, and hilarious approach with teaching life management skills to students, business leaders, organizations, and teams. He has spoken to several businesses including State Farm and the Southern Company, both of which are Fortune 500 companies.

“We are proud to have Willie Spears as our guest speaker this year. He is sure to bring a motivational message and capture the attention of our audience. He has spoken at events across the country and we are excited to welcome him to Andalusia,” King said.

The chamber is currently accepting nominations for the 2025 Business of the Year. Four awards will be presented at the banquet including Small Business of the Year with nine or less employees, Mid-Sized Business of the Year with 10 to 74 employees, and Large Business of the Year with 75 or more employees.

In addition, the chamber will announce its 2025 Student of the Year and 2025 Teacher of the Year. One business will also be chosen for the Business of the Year Community Service Award.

To reserve tickets email mking@andalusiachamber.com, maggie@andalusiachamber.com, or call the Andalusia Area Chamber of Commerce at 334-222-2030.