(Atlantic, Iowa) – The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce will host their Annual Dinner Friday, March 1st, 2024, at The Venue in Atlantic. Chamber Executive Director Bailey Smith says “The Annual Dinner is always a favorite for the Chamber. It’s a great opportunity for us to reflect on what we’ve accomplished, look forward to what we will accomplish and most of all, highlight all of our members and volunteers that have invested their time and money back into our organization and our community.” The Chamber will be recognizing businesses, organizations and individual leaders in the community. The 38th Annual Distinguished Service Award will also be given out at the dinner.

The Distinguished Service Award recognizes an individual, business or organization who has made the community a better place to live. They have rendered special services for the benefit of the community and have demonstrated an active leadership role for the betterment of the community through their involvement in business, civic and social service organizations.

Last year, the Distinguished Service Award was given to Melissa Ihnen for her dedication to Atlantic through her business, Meyer & Gross Real Estate, as well as her service to youth through her leadership in Boy Scouts the past 25 years. On top of the busy schedule those two commitments creates, she also serves on numerous community committees including Planning & Zoning, Board of Adjustment and the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Board.

Smith encourages those who sent a nomination last year to do so again this year if their recipient didn’t win. “We received 12 incredible nominations last year and look forward to seeing what amazing individuals, businesses and organization are nominated this year.”

Nominations for the Distinguished Service Award are due by February 16th, 2024. You can nominate someone by submitting a nomination letter to the Chamber at 102 Chestnut Street, or email chamber@atlanticiowa.com. The Annual Dinner will begin at 6:00 PM with a social followed by dinner at 6:30 PM. You can register for the dinner at www.atlanticiowa.com.