the future is bright!
WELCOME
TO THE BANQUET
Dear Chamber Members, Partners, and Friends,
As we gather tonight to celebrate another year of growth and connection, I am reminded of the incredible strength of our business community. Together, we are laying the foundation for a vibrant, thriving tomorrow. The future is bright.
This past year, your Chamber has worked hard to create opportunities, foster relationships, and champion the businesses that make our community strong. We’ve welcomed new members, hosted impactful programs like our “State of” series, Informative Luncheons, brought The National Civic Bee to McAlester, and continued to monitor and advocate for policies that support growth and innovation.
Through networking events, leadership development, and community partnerships, we’ve built platforms where businesses of all sizes can succeed. From celebrating our educators and supporting workforce initiatives to highlighting local businesses and creating spaces for meaningful connections, the Chamber is proud to serve as a catalyst for progress.
None of this would be possible without the dedication of our board, ambassadors, sponsors, and — most importantly — our members. Your investment in the Chamber is an investment in the future of our community, and together, we are proving that the future is indeed bright.
Thank you for believing in the Chamber’s mission and for standing with us as we continue to serve, advocate, and grow. I am honored to walk alongside you in this journey, and I cannot wait to see what we accomplish together in the year ahead.
Caroline Russell
President/CEO
EVENING
AGENDA
COCKTAIL HOUR
Please join us for a cocktail hour brought to you by Angel’s Mobile Bar. During this time, we encourage you to place your bids at the Silent Auction, and network with other Chamber Members.
5:30PM
WELCOME TOAST
Welcome from the Board Chair, Cameron Green
6:15PM
DINNER
Enjoy a delicious dinner provided by Angel’s Diner!
6:20PM
PRESIDENT’S REMARKS
Stats and insights of the Chamber with President & CEO, Caroline Russell.
6:50PM
AWARDS CEREMONY
Charlie Rogers Award
Presented by Kristi Thompson and Cameron Green
New Business of the Year
Presented by Raymond Wilson
Small Business of the Year
Presented by Robin Woodley
Large Business of the Year Presented by Josh Hass
Volunteer of the Year
Presented by Janet Wansick
Young Professional of the Year
Presented by Caroline Russell
Ambassador of the Year Presented by Jessica Knoerdel
Community Leader of the Year Presented by Blake Lynch
7:00PM
CLOSING REMARKS
7:45PM
SILENT AUCTION ENDS
Get your final bids in by 7:40pm!
8:00PM
TONIGHT IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY

ANNUAL
REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
%
Member Retention Rate
%
Increase in Membership
Events Hosted
Ribbon Cuttings
THANKS
TO OUR STAFF & BOARD
OUR
PROGRAMS & SERVICES
When you become a part of the Chamber, you join a network of local small businesses, gain valuable marketing opportunities, and get access resources and people that support your growth and success.
01. Leadership
Build skills, connections, and community impact through Leadership McAlester and various volunteer committees.
02. NETWORKING
Grow your relationships at Women’s Connect, Chamber on Tap, and other dynamic mixers.
03. WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT, SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT, & ADVOCACY
Empowering businesses with training, resources, and a strong voice at every level.
04. National Civics Bee
We are proud to be 1 of 5 Oklahoma chambers participating in the National Civics Bee.
THANKS TO OUR TITLE SPONSOR

THANKS
TO OUR VOLUNTEERS
The success of our Chamber is built on the generosity of those who give their time to serve on committees and volunteer, even amidst the demands of their businesses. It is through your dedication that we can provide so many meaningful networking opportunities for our members.

SILVER
SPONSORS
OUR
CHAMBER AMBASSADORS

LEADERSHIP MCALESTER
2026
UPCOMING
OPPORTUNITIES
WANT TO HOST ONE OF OUR MONTHLY NETWORKING EVENTS?
GET
INVOLVED
The Chamber offers many ways to deepen your involvement and make a lasting impact, whether it’s serving on a committee, becoming a sponsor, or joining our Ambassador Program.
If you’d like to get involved in these opportunities or any of the programs you heard about today, we encourage you to contact us and discover how you can play a bigger role in shaping our business community.


IN MEMORIAM
CHARLIE ROGERS
Charlie Rogers (1976–2025) was a devoted public servant, business leader, and philanthropist whose life centered on faith, family, and community. After 21 years of service in law enforcement with the McAlester Police Department, he carried on his family’s legacy as CEO of Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company of McAlester, where he led the business to national recognition. A past Chamber Board member and active supporter of local schools, beautification projects, and nonprofits like Hudson Strong, Charlie gave generously of his time and resources to strengthen McAlester. His leadership, integrity, and compassion leave a lasting mark on our city.
KEVIN PRIDDLE
Kevin Priddle (1954–2025) was a longtime banker and civic leader who served as McAlester’s mayor from 2008 to 2012 and remained deeply engaged in community life for nearly two decades. Known for his belief in McAlester as “the jewel of southeast Oklahoma,” he championed infrastructure improvements, economic development, and the growth of local institutions such as McAlester Regional Health Center. Beyond city hall, Kevin’s dedication to public service, his love of music, and his warm, approachable spirit made him a friend and advocate for many. His vision and service continue to shape McAlester’s future.