The Perryville Area Chamber of Commerce has been around for quite awhile, 100 years actually. The organization celebrated that fact at its annual “Celebration of Business and Community” on Jan. 19 at the Knights of Columbus Main Hall. The Chamber held its first annua meeting in November 1923.
“2022 saw few changes within the Chamber,” Former Chamber President Brandie Mantz said. “One of those few was welcoming Kiley Eiland as the new executive director. She has jumped right in and helped businesses build, grow, and be the best they can. Renee Lottes has stuck with the Chamber as well and moved into the operations manager position with the Chamber. These two as a pair have shown strides to where they can take the Chamber and we are excited to see where they can take it.”
Mantz said that 2022 saw a Mayfest fundraising record and introduced the “Lit Up and Local” campaign that encourages businesses to decorate for Christmas for a prize. There were also plenty of Business After Hours and ribbon cuttings that welcomed businesses to the community.
The meeting continued with the recognition of three retiring board members which included Caitlin Pistorio who served for six years with stints as vice president and president. Jacob Ritter was honored for his three years to the board and served as a chair for several committees. Kaitlyn Wibbenmeyer was honored for her six years of service to the board and previously was vice president.
New board members were recognized including Shannon Miesner, Conner Stark, and Annie Bauwens. Those board members will be joined by the existing members of the board: Emily Blyzes, Shelly Janet, Alex Lueders, Mantz, and Greg Yamnitz, vice president Amy Hager, Secretary/Treasurer Jamie Robinson.
Melissa Hoehn was elevated as Chamber president and will serve another three-year term.
Hoehn noted as president she is looking forward to serving as president and has great things planned for 2023.
