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The Pekin Hometown Voice

Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce — April 2024

Mar 29, 2024 12:30PM ● By Amy McCoy, Executive Director
Annual Meeting: The Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to host the 2024 Annual Meeting on Monday, April 15 from 4:30–7:00 pm at the Avanti’s Event Center. Each year, the chamber gathers its members and celebrates the successes of the prior year and looks ahead to a new chamber year. The event will include live entertainment from Pekin’s own Brian Carroll and his colleague, Suzanne Miller, both of Jim Maloof Realtor.

New Directors and Officers will be installed at a short business meeting with comments from outgoing Chamber Board President, Laurie Gruse, Pekin Insurance, and incoming President, Dr. Danielle Owens, Pekin Community High School, District 303. The 2024 Pekin Marigold Festival Committee will be on hand to officially launch the festival, with an update as to the theme and events in planning. All chamber members are invited and encouraged to attend this engaging evening of community celebration.
 
Honor America Celebration: The Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the continuation of the 4th of July “Honor America Celebration” fireworks display held at Pekin Memorial Stadium this summer. The Honor America Celebration is funded by members of the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce, the Pekin business community, and donations from community members.

***Due to construction in and around Pekin Memorial Stadium, the stadium will be closed to spectators in 2024 and 2025. The Arena Parking lot will be used for VIP seating for sponsor ticket holders, wheelchair-accessible seating, and a free General Admission area. Vehicles will not be allowed in this area. ***

The display begins at nightfall on July 4th with a rain date the following evening.

Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Amy McCoy states, “We are proud to offer this event to our community, and we could not do so without the support of our sponsors. The Honor America Celebration is a hallmark of our community. While it will look a little different for the next couple of years, we pledge to treat our guests to a fantastic show!”
 
SmartStart Pekin: Each month on the third Tuesday at 5pm, a group of energetic entrepreneurs gather at the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce for a networking and education session geared towards small startup businesses. This gathering is open to all businesses and there is no cost. This group offers encouragement and support to each other, as well as resources necessary for these budding businesses to succeed. Follow SmartStart Pekin on Facebook for all of the details and upcoming events.