Sunman Area Chamber of Commerce members are looking forward to their annual dinner Wednesday, Nov. 5, at 6 p.m. at Ertel Cellars Winery. It is open to the public.

“We already have reservations for 50” and are expecting over 60. “This is always a well-attended, well-received event,” announces SACC secretary Beth Watson.

This is a time to show appreciation to members and recognize businesses and individuals, she adds.

The business and citizen of the year are chosen by the board of directors. Also honored will be one teacher from each of three area schools (St. Paul’s School, New Alsace; St. Nicholas School, Sunman; and Sunman Elementary School). The educator of the year from each school is decided upon by the students. “We send out a form to the schools, and the children vote on who their favorite teacher is.”

The secretary reveals the chamber is “concentrating heavily on businesses this year .... With the coming of our new pharmacy,” along with other established businesses in town, “we are becoming a one-stop shopping (area).

“We want to make everyone aware of all our great small businesses.”

SACC President Sandy Gorman stresses the organization is trying to build up the community. “We had a group that looked into bringing condos into our town.”

The SACC have some new members and three new directors, who are “bringing in new refreshing ideas and energy .... I’m excited about our new enthusiasm,” the president emphasizes.

Diane Raver can be contacted at 812-934-4343, Ext. 114; or diane.raver@ batesvilleheraldtribune.com. To comment on stories, visit batesvilleheraldtribune.com.