Bay City Tribune

The Bay City Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture will celebrate the 87th banquet at 6 p.m. in the Bay City Civic Center on Thursday, Jan. 21.

Each year the banquet gives the entire chamber membership a time to come together for socializing and reconnecting, said Mitch Thames, Bay City Chamber of Commerce president.

"There will be a lot of reconnecting going on," said Thames.

"In today's busy and hectic world sometimes we need to just slow down relax and have a good time together."

Chamber members will visit while honoring the man, woman, and educator of the year and hearing an annual report about the chamber's accomplishments over the past year.

"One of the most important things we do is recognize the man and woman of the year," said Thames.

"Traditionally, these individuals have been working in the community for years and have contributed to the chamber, the community and their religious representation."

"Each year the nominees rise to a caliber that it gets harder and harder to choose between them," he added.

An educator of the year is also selected, based on committee interview of nominees from each campus.

In a spirit of unity, the Matagorda Area Chamber of Commerce celebrates their accomplishments and presents a citizen and educator of the year award as well.

Historically, the banquet program has included entertainment such as motivational speakers, comedians and live music but the chamber members have agreed that the most enjoyable part of the evening has always been just visiting with friends and neighbors while enjoying a nice meal.

This year, a lavish seafood buffet will be provided by the Marine Advisory Committee of Matagorda County.

"They will fry up oysters, shrimp and fish and feed us very, very well," said Thames.

The event won't be without an opportunity to score some great gift items as well.

Throughout the event the guests will have an opportunity to bid on several nice items in a silent and live auction.

During the social hour, beginning at 6 p.m., the chamber's newest members who joined during one of their 2009 membership drives will have tables set up featuring their businesses and giving guests a chance to learn more about the goods and services they have to offer.