LOYAL. LOCAL. COMPLETE.
The Ernie Eveland Gymnasium looked unrecognizable Saturday, Sept. 7, during the annual Paris Chamber of Commerce Celebration. Inside, the room was filled with decorated tables, music, food, a live painting and guests from multiple Paris businesses.
The event was originally scheduled for April 13, 2024, but was rescheduled to Saturday evening.
Kalen Mxrcus provided live music throughout the evening, featuring country classics, as well as a few of his original songs. Mxrcus is an Altamont native, with connections to Effingham and Western Illinois University.
Jamie Stang Ellis live painted during the event for all guests to observe. Her art piece, depicting the Statue of Liberty and the American flag, was auctioned off at the celebration. Mayor Craig Smith won the bidding war and purchased the artwork for $1,200. A gold coin, donated by the Salvation Army, was also auctioned and sold for $1,000.
Various foods and drinks were served all evening. KBG Deli supplied a lavish charcuterie display, Frosted by Maddie and Blessed Baking by Bailey provided a dessert table and Brandon Foster served cocktails and drinks at a bar. On The Tracks Cafe prepared the main dinner for the celebration. The dinner was comprised of lemon pepper chicken, creamy pork tips, mashed potatoes, green beans, salad and a roll.
Following all entertainment and meals, an award ceremony was held to celebrate various Paris businesses that have left an impact on the community.
The 2023 Non-Profit of the Year award was given to Food for Kids, an organization responsible for providing meals for more than 200 kids every weekend. Kurt Speece, a leader with Food for Kids, took time to thank the countless people who help make the non-profit a raging success for the community.
“I am humbled to be recognized, because many other people are involved, and a lot of you are involved in our program, Food for Kids. We have a great group of volunteers, and we have great support from the Paris community through churches, civic groups and businesses organizations to help us feed food insecure kids each weekend in the school year. In the last few years, it’s been about 200 kids every weekend. So thank you for your support. Thank you for recognizing our group of volunteers,” he said.
David Hamilton, emcee of the evening and Chamber board member, introduced the 2023 Small Business of the Year winner, Bridgett’s Spa and Gifts.
“The 2023 Small Business of the Year is a generous supporter of charitable causes and programs in the community. The talented owner started this business from a small shop on the square over 20 years ago. She was the only employee,” he said. “Today, she’s managing the rapid expansion of a thriving business, employing nine professionals in the business’ new location at the old KC Hall.”
The 2023 Business of the Year award was presented to Gopher Excavating and Pools.
“The 2023 Business of the Year Award goes to a family-owned business with over 30 years of experience. This business has made itself an integral member of our local community through its generosity, investment in our community’s future and the highest caliber of services it offers,” said Hamilton.
“I will say thanks for the community and everyone’s support all the time, standing behind us and the array of services we do offer,” said Gopher Excavating and Pools co-owner, Riley Bogue.
The 2023 Parisian of the Year award was presented to Paris resident, Chip Keys, who is described as “a hardworking, passionate, committed leader in (the Paris) community.”
“This year’s winner can often be found out in the fields, delivering meals to farmers, helping anyone who asks. I’m sure everyone in the room tonight has seen the work ethic and commitment to our community with this year’s winner,” said Hamilton. “You may have seen him on the sidelines of the Junior League or high school football teams, where he is tonight. You may serve with him on the Paris Girls Softball Association board or the AER County Shrine Club. You may even see him mentoring students to the PERKmentoring program.”
Keys’ award was accepted by his wife, Beth Keys, and three daughters.
Custom trophies, made by D21 Custom Gifts, were presented to each winner of the evening.
“These trophies are super special… It took a lot of work to go into these trophies. These are special, and we put a lot of heart into it, so they’re really cool,” said Chamber board president Paige Moreschi.