Elgin Chamber Banquet Honors Business, Community Leaders at Annual Awards

At the Elgin Community Center on March 12, the Elgin Chamber of Commerce marked its 60th year of operation with an annual banquet that recognized eight businesses and individuals for their contributions to the community.

The Hen House, located at 825 Division St., took home Business of the Year honors. Lisa Lathrop, a fourth- and fifth-grade teacher at Stella Mayfield Elementary, was named Educator of the Year. Kendall Noyes, who works at the Elgin Corner Market, received Employee of the Year. The Elgin Food Bank at 850 Alder St. was recognized as Organization of the Year.

Gene Rysdam was named Man of the Year and Tony Lambert received Young Man of the Year. Melodie Nichols was honored as Woman of the Year, and Tiffany Lambert took home the Young Woman of the Year award.

The chamber noted the milestone in a social media post following the event. "This year was especially meaningful as we celebrated 60 years of service! Six decades of supporting local businesses, community events and the people who make Elgin such a special place," the chamber wrote.

In the same post, the chamber extended thanks to everyone who made the night possible. "The Elgin Chamber of Commerce would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended the Chamber Banquet and to all of the volunteers, sponsors, and community members who helped make the evening possible. Events like this are a reminder of just how strong and supportive our community truly is."

The chamber also posted the full list of winners for those who were unable to attend in person, adding: "Here's to another year of supporting local businesses, uplifting our neighbors, and continuing to build a stronger community together.