The Victoria Chamber of Commerce held its' Annual Membership Banquet on January 31st.  "It Starts In Victoria..." was the theme that was selected this year by Board Chairman Jeff Lyon and held at the Victoria Community Center.  He is the Vice President and General Manager for Gap Broadcasting.  Over 400 chamber members were in attendance.

Mr. Lyon spoke about individuals and businesses that have put their faith in Victoria.  He listed new businesses and what they have done to improve the city.  Established businesses that continue to serve the area and thrive.  He spoke of individuals that have selflessly given to their community, expecting nothing in return.  Chamber members gave him a standing ovation.

Janice Sons of Wichita Falls was the keynote speaker.  She brought her own sense of fun and humor to the event.  Ms. Sons spoke of how sometimes we get to caught up in the daily grind and forget the humor in the world around us.  She reminded us that we need to be able to laugh at ourselves and our circumstances.

At this year's event we brought back an old tradition and started a new one.  The Chamber gave out three awards at this year's event.  The Corporate Partner of the Year was given to INVISTA for their continued commitment to the Chamber and the citizens of Victoria.  They were recognized for the tremendous involvement in the community and their vital support of the Chamber.  The Victoria Television Group was named the Small Business Partner of the Year.  Jeff Pryor accepted on behalf of the group which has partnered with the Chamber on almost every event this year.  The Victoria Television Group works tremendously hard to provide public and business education to the community.  This year the Chamber gave The Chamber Citizen of the Year Award.  This year's recipient was Dr. Jimmy Goodson, President of Victoria College.  Dr. Goodson has work tirelessly to promote education in Victoria since his arrival in 1989.  His philanthropy and good community works have been an example to many.  His work has brought Victoria College to a new level.

The Annual Membership Banquet was enjoyed by all and there are many people to thank.  The Chamber would specifically like to thank the following:

Dana Smith

Earnie's Place

Main Course Catering

On The Edge Photography

Victoria Chamber Ambassadors

Victoria Chamber Banquet Committee

Victoria Community Center

Sponsors for this year's event were:

Gold Sponsors

INVISTA

Victoria Television Group

Gap Broadcasting

Silver Sponsors

Victoria Blue Print Co., Inc.

Regional Steel Products, Inc.

Coleto Creek Power

UH-V Small Business Development Corporation

First Victoria

Cal Com Federal Credit Union

Twin Pines Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

University of Houston - Victoria

AT&T Texas

Victoria Advocate

Klean Corp International

Fountain of Youth Medical Spa

Bronze Sponsors

Texas Dow Employees Credit Union

McAdams Floral

US Congressman Ron Paul's Office