Assistant Editor Jerry Lindsey wrote this article.
The Morrison Chamber of Commerce, under the direction of Executive Director LeAnn Schaefer, lived up to their motto of “We’re Making Things Happen.” Refusing to allow the restrictions implemented due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Annual Meeting and Wine Basket Event was offered on-line, Thursday, February 11, 2021, at 6:30 p.m. This format allowed members to be updated on the year’s activities and honor those contributing to the community and the goals of the Chamber.
President Kevin Schisler opened the evening reviewing the year’s successes, challenges, and alternative actions the Chamber had to make to serve the desires of the members. Despite pressures on the business environment, membership retention was at 93.5 %. He praised members for their continued participation, which saw the yearly contributions only drop by $1000.
Highlights of the year included construction and organization of the new daycare (The Early Years Daycare) and expansion of The Gateway Credit Union into the departed Hardee’s facility on W. Main Street.
The Chamber remained committed in the High School scholarships, supporting Morrison Strong, Halloween and Christmas festivities, and community cook-outs. The organization is looking forward to enhancing community activities for the businesses of Morrison, IL, in the coming year.
In his closing, Schisler announced a Board opening and accepted the nomination of Lisa Sage to fill the position. Following parliamentary procedure, Sage was elected unanimously to serve on the Chamber Board.
Executive Director Schaefer announced continuation of the “Chamber Bucks” for the upcoming year. She invited all businesses to invest in the Bucks, to keep the money in town and draw additional customers into their business. She urged the public to notice the community-related video on Facebook, which tells the Chamber story and compliments Morrison’s strengths.
Success of the Christmas Tree Lighting was watched by over 1500 viewers virtually; the letters to Santa totaled over 30 anxious youngsters. Schaefer reported 72 homes entered the Christmas lighting contest; she anticipated an increased number in 2021.
Regardless of restrictive guidelines, the Chamber enjoyed success in their altered attempts to serve Chamber members and the community of Morrison.
The “Citizen of the Year” announcement ended the evening’s presentation with the selection of Andy Harridge, below. Harridge, Principal of Northside Elementary School, was commended for his dedication to teaching and learning. Harridge considered the award a “huge, huge honor” but shared the honor with the staff at Northside. He complimented their patience, endurance, and positive attitudes throughout the months of the pandemic.
Other nominations for the Citizen of the Year award were Karla Burn, Marketing Director at Resthave Care & Rehabilitation, and Morrison Mayor Everett Pannier.
