Buffalo Area Chamber of Commerce Golden Jubilee

Celebrating 50 Years

The Buffalo Area Chamber of Commerce hosted our Annual banquet, our Golden Jubilee, on Tuesday, April 21^st, at Chrysler Commons. Holy Smoke BBQ catered the event.

The Buffalo Area Chamber of Commerce was started in 1974 and incorporated in December 1975 with the objective of promoting business, industry, agriculture, and community betterment projects. The Buffalo Area Chamber of Commerce has carried that mission over the last 50 years, continuing to support local businesses and community initiatives to maintain a high climate for a sound, expanding economy and healthy community development.

A Conversation with Bill Monday

The program for the evening was “A Conversation with Bill Monday.” Bill Monday, with O'Bannon Banking Company, has been a key player in many of the developments in Buffalo and Dallas County over the years.

Bill discussed the history of economic development in Dallas County from the beginnings of economic development to the current Economic Development Group and many of the partnerships that have helped to move our community forward over the years.

Some of the key partnerships within the community include the county, City of Buffalo, economic development, the Dallas County R-1 School District, and the chamber, working together for the betterment of the community.

Annual Awards

Each year, the Chamber’s annual awards serve as a celebration of the people and businesses who strengthen our community. These honors shine a light on the leaders, innovators, and volunteers whose dedication helps Buffalo grow, thrive, and feel like home. By recognizing excellence in business, service, and community leadership, we affirm the values that define our town—hard work, generosity, collaboration, and pride in where we live.

Award Categories:

• Small Business – must be a chamber member with under 20 employees
• Large Business – must be a chamber member with over 20 employees
• Community Service - Demonstrates outstanding service to the local community, either an individual or a group.
• Cornerstone Award – the Chamber’s most prestigious award. An individual/group/business with a long-standing commitment and service to the community.
• Ambassador of the Year -  This award recognizes a Chamber Ambassador who exemplifies outstanding service, professionalism, and enthusiasm in representing the Chamber.

These awards are more than acknowledgments; they are a way to say thank you to those who invest their time, talent, and resources into making our community better. They remind us that progress happens when individuals and organizations step forward, support one another, and lead with purpose. Through these recognitions, we celebrate not only this year’s honorees but also the spirit of community that inspires all of us to keep moving Buffalo forward.

Below is a look at this year's award winners:

Small Business of the Year - Southern Fried Kitchen

Southern Fried Kitchen has shown strong business growth, outstanding customer service, and a commitment to supporting local initiatives. This business represents the entrepreneurial spirit that strengthens our local economy and enhances the quality of life in our area.

Large Business of the Year - Woods Supermarket

Woods Supermarket has made a significant impact on the Buffalo area through leadership and community investment by supporting local partnerships and contributing meaningfully to the economic vitality and well‑being of our region.

Community Service Award - Brenda Howe

Brenda Howe has demonstrated a sustained commitment to volunteerism and civic engagement, having served on the Christmas Parade Committee for many years. 

Cornerstone Award - Tracy Strickland

Tracy Strickland has demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, and dedication to our community, leaving a lasting impact on Buffalo’s growth, identity, and future.

Ambassador of the Year - Laura Coots-Holland

Laura Coots-Holland has consistently supported the Chamber, working directly with the executive director to support member engagement, attending events, welcoming new businesses, and strengthening relationships throughout the community. 

New Board Members

The membership also voted in new Officers for 2026-2027. The new Officers include:

President: Amanda Torbet, Serenity Solutions

Vice President: Andrea Gann, Gann Insurance

Secretary: Maxston McKinney, Dallas County R-1 Schools

Treasurer: Tom Seroogy, Ind. Rep. Inspire Advisors, LLC

We want to thank Cheryl Eversole, Dr. Mary Richardson, and Sam Woods for their service on the board. Their time and commitment to the chamber were invaluable and greatly appreciated.

The Buffalo Area Chamber of Commerce would like to thank everyone who attended for a wonderful evening. Thank you to Chrysler Commons for hosting us, Holy Smoke, the Buffalo Reflex, and Woods Supermarket for providing the cake. We would also like to thank Mr. Bill Monday for sharing his knowledge and insight. 

The Buffalo Area Chamber of Commerce would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all of our members and the community for 50 years. We are looking forward to many more years of service.