Another chamber banquet has come and gone.

For attendees, it was a memorable evening, with awards presented, silent and live auctions, laughs and memories shared.

But for organizers, this year’s event stands out for its success despite the lingering - albeit hopefully dissipating - shadow of COVID-19.

“Even with the level of concern we had for being the first large community event, it was time,” says Mexico Area Chamber of Commerce director, Dana Keller. “The crowd was so enthusiastic about being out and it was a wonderful evening.”

Typically, the banquet is hosted in January; award winners were actually selected at the Past Chamber President’s Luncheon, held in October.

“At that point, we didn’t know how or when we would be able to hold the event,” Keller said. “We had lots of conversations about options.”

After those discussions, organizers decided it was time to move forward and take the next step to a return to normal. Mexico Military Academy’s Gymnatorium was selected as the site, as it was the largest space available.

“We decided that all tables would have at least a 10-foot ‘bubble’ around it,” Keller said. Guests from the same organizations sat together and seats would all be assigned, so if, in the unlikely situation someone got sick post-event, we could easily track down who they were with.”

Additionally, the bar and auction were spaced away from dinner tables.

There were a few hitches along the way. While MMA’s facility proved to be a choice selection, there was no kitchen available.

“We had to change to a buffet meal and move to disposable table service,” said Keller. “We felt like the beautiful space and accommodations made up for the more casual meal.”

Caterer, Pig Up and Go helped too, moving outside their usual menu to be buffet-friendly.

Tickets went on sale in late February, and they were in high demand, selling out March 15.

For Keller and other organizers, the lead up to the banquet is a hectic time, but now that the dust has settled, she has time to reflect on an event that stands as testimony to the community’s caliber.

“It is such a wonderful celebration of people and organizations that really make our town exceptional,” Keller said. “I really loved to hear the remarks of all the recipients. Clearly they are all jewels in our community crown.”

And to a degree, the banquet’s success can provide a litmus test for in-person gatherings.

“I think with appropriate planning and the willingness to adapt, we can begin having some of the bigger events,” Keller said. “The last thing in the world the chamber would want to do is be responsible for spreading a virus that has already had a significant impact on the way we have been able to do business. We were mindful of every aspect of the evening and it went well. Hopeful others will follow.”

With that, it’s off to the next event. The chamber is currently working on its June 4 golf tournament.

“The chamber has been so proud of the way our business community has adapted and continued to thrive,” Keller said. “We appreciate being in a community that sure seems to know how to ‘Love Local!’’

For those who missed it, here are the evening’s winners: E. Warner Williams, Dagwood Jr.; G. Andy Runge Ambassador Award, Janet’s Dance Studio; Civic Award, Audrain County Health Department; Excellence in Tourism, Village Square Association; Philanthropic Achievement, Max Kennen; Educator of the Year, Peggy Reynard; President’s Award, Todd Yager; Col. C.R. Stribling Jr. Community Service Award, Deb Hill-Haag.

The 2021 Mexico Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors is: Kim Sydenstricker, president; Melanie Utterback, president-elect; Vicki Oligschlaeger, treasurer; Grant Toellner, immediate past-president; division vice-presidents are Josh Frantz, operations; Ben Steinman, business services; Todd Geeson, community betterment and civic affairs; George Huffman, economic development; Steve Hobbs, Audrain County presiding commissioner; Bruce Slagle, city manager, City of Mexico. Directors are Kate Becker, Melissa Buckman-Young, Michael Daughterty, Mary Dickey, Matt Gowin, Sebastien Heintz, Greg Maximovitch, Tiffani Maxwell, Chris Miller, Logan Ray, Lynn Thompson and Brad Walker. Honorary members are Russell Runge, Dr. Ayanna Shivers, Dr. Tammy Lupardus, Amy O’Brien, Caroline Groves, Rick Geraci, Kathy Coulson and Tom and Linda Groves.