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Annual Dinner

2026 Ottawa Area Chamber Annual Dinner

✨ What a Night to Remember! ✨
 
Our Annual Dinner was an incredible evening filled with celebration, connection, and community pride as we honored 110 years of the Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
 
From the moment guests arrived, the energy in the room was undeniable. It was a night dedicated to recognizing the businesses, leaders, and members who continue to shape and strengthen our local economy.
 
We proudly celebrated our milestone members, whose years of dedication and investment in the Chamber have helped build a strong foundation for growth and success in the Ottawa area.
 
We are especially proud to recognize our Major 2026 Award Winners:
🏆 Chairman’s Award – Ron Henson of Ron Henson State Farm
🏆 Ethyl Strong Ambassador of the Year – Ottawa Downtown Association
🏆Leo Parkerson Award – Pamela Beckett of Starved Rock Country Community Foundation
 
Your dedication, leadership, and service to the Ottawa Area Chamber and community are truly inspiring!
To everyone who helped make this night possible — your partnership and presence are what make this community thrive.
 
We also took time to reflect on the past year—highlighting achievements, partnerships, and the continued momentum of our business community.
 
💬 Most importantly, the evening was a reminder of what makes our Chamber so special: the people. The connections made, the stories shared, and the collective commitment to moving our community forward.
 
To everyone who attended, sponsored, and supported this event—thank you for being part of something bigger. Your involvement is what allows us to continue being a dynamic force for our members and our region. And a big thank you to Starved Rock Lodge who hosted us for the evening!
 
Here’s to continuing to give 110% for 110 years… and beyond!


An Evening of Celebration, Connection, and Community Impact

  • Date: Thursday, April 30th 
  • Location: Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center

Join us for the 2026 Ottawa Area Chamber Annual Dinner, an unforgettable evening celebrating the strength, growth, and collaboration of our local business community. This signature event brings together business leaders, community champions, and Chamber members to reflect on the year’s accomplishments, recognize outstanding achievements, and look ahead to an even brighter future.

Why You Should Attend

Whether you're a small business owner, corporate leader, or community advocate, the Annual Dinner is your opportunity to:

  • Celebrate Milestones & the Chamber's 110th Anniversary: Applaud fellow Chamber members for business anniversaries and accomplishments.

  • Honor Local Leaders: Recognize individuals whose commitment and passion drive the vitality of Ottawa’s economy and community.

  • Network with Purpose: Connect with local professionals, leaders, and stakeholders in a welcoming, collaborative environment.

Reserve Your Seat

Seats fill quickly, so don’t wait to secure your spot at one of the Chamber’s most anticipated events of the year.

Celebrate. Connect. Inspire. Be part of the 2026 Ottawa Area Chamber Annual Dinner—where we honor the past, engage in the present, and shape the future of Ottawa together.

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Chamber Website photos-750x500 (1)
Annual Dinner entree

Dinner Menu Options

Enjoy a thoughtfully curated meal with your choice of the following delicious entrees:

  • Steak - Sliced Roast Tenderloin seasoned with cracked black pepper finished with a cabernet demi glaze served with garlic mashed potatoes and asparagus

  • Chicken Picatta - Boneless breaded chicken breast topped with a lemon caper sauce served with garlic mashed potatoes and asparagus

  • Fish - Parmesan crusted Orange Roughy served with garlic mashed potatoes and asparagus

  • Vegetarian - Eggplant Parmesan

If you have any food restrictions (allergies) please talk to Caitlyn (c.tucker@ottawachamberillinois.com or 815-433-0084)