Last year was a year of growth for the Benton County/Camden Chamber of Commerce. It was Lorie Matlock’s first full year serving as executive director, as she was tasked with rejuvenating a Chamber that had fallen upon tough times. Looking back, it’s safe to say that she hit her mark.
“My first year was both challenging and rewarding,” admitted Matlock. “Due to the pandemic and the director position being vacant for nearly nine months, the Chamber’s membership, social media, and event attendance had declined greatly. It was most definitely a challenge.”
Focusing on regaining the trust of local businesses, the Chamber welcomed 63 new members in 2022. Their social media presence has visibly grown. Attendance at events has greatly improved. Perhaps most importantly, local merchants have seen a rise in shoppers as a result of Chamber sponsored events like the Shop Local Win Big campaign held last November.
“The 2022 Christmas parade was a huge success this year, with over 75 entries and tons of community participation,” said Matlock. “Our annual Chamber Awards banquet last spring was also a hit. The Bargain Highway continues to recover nicely from the Pandemic, and the Chamber partnered with Birdsong Drive-In to host a Magic Valley Music Festival in October.”
Matlock envisions an even more eventful 2023 as the Chamber continues to grow and serve the community. The annual Chamber Banquet already is scheduled for Thursday, March 16.
“The Chamber is the first point of contact for new business owners, new residents, and industrial contacts interested in Benton County,” Matlock noted. “Being a part of the Chamber gives local business owners several opportunities to get involved in the community and improve their visibility and viability.”
For more information on the Benton County/Camden Chamber of Commerce, visit www.bentoncountycamden.com or like the Facebook page at “Benton County/Camden Chamber of Commerce.” To contact the Chamber directly, call 731-584-8395 or email Matlock at [email protected].
