Marion Area Chamber of Commerce

06/05/2026

A huge shout-out to our sponsors and presenters for helping make yesterday's Marion Area Chamber of Commerce Marketing Workshop a tremendous success!

One attendee shared that it was "the best marketing workshop they've ever attended"—and we couldn't be more excited to hear such positive feedback.

This wasn't just a workshop about the latest trends in marketing and advertising. Participants had the opportunity to actively use the tools and strategies being discussed, gaining hands-on experience and building confidence they can immediately apply to their businesses.

A special thank-you to our outstanding presenters:• Chris Massey with Generations Realty• Daniel Bradshaw with Ghostlight Content• Kyle Jackson with Campaign Boost

Your expertise, practical insights, and willingness to share real-world strategies made this workshop both educational and engaging.

We would also like to thank our generous sponsors:• Alluvial Private Wealth• Marion Valley PA • Dostal & Kirk Insurance & Financial Services.
Thank you to our lunch sponsor Presidential Post Acute

Your support helps the Chamber provide valuable educational opportunities that strengthen our local business community.

Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to a fantastic day of learning, networking, and growth.

Together, we are progressing together and building a stronger business community!

06/03/2026

Ambassador Spotlight:

A graduate of River Valley High School, Allen currently serves as President of the Marion Harding Athletic Boosters, where he works to support local student-athletes and school programs. He is also an active volunteer within the community, proudly serving as a Chamber Ambassador for the Marion Area Chamber of Commerce and supporting numerous local initiatives and organizations throughout Marion County.

Allen is married to his wife, Megan, and together they are raising their two sons, Joshua and Finn. Family and community remain at the center of everything he does.

Professionally, Allen serves as the Executive Director of Downtown Marion, Inc., a nonprofit organization focused on revitalizing Historic Downtown Marion through economic development, community engagement, and preservation efforts.

In his role, Allen works closely with local businesses, community leaders, volunteers, and stakeholders to create events, support new business growth, attract visitors, and help transform downtown into a thriving destination for shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences.

His passion for Marion and commitment to progress continue to help shape the future of Downtown Marion.

06/02/2026

Happy Retirement Linda aka The Kitchen Goddess with Presidential Post Acute .

The chamber ambassadors thanks you for treating us just like family and making our quarterly breakfast
so yummy at each of our meetings.

You will be greatly missed. Enjoy your retirement years.

06/01/2026

🎓 Congratulations to the Class of 2026! 🎓

From preschool and kindergarten to middle school, high school, tradeschool, college, leadership programs, certifications, and everything in between—today we celebrate your accomplishments!

Every graduation represents hard work, dedication, perseverance, and the determination to reach an important milestone. No matter where your journey is taking you next, take pride in what you have achieved.

The Marion Area Chamber of Commerce congratulates all graduates in our community and wishes you continued success as you begin your next chapter.

Job well done, Class of 2026! We are proud of you and look forward to seeing all the great things you will accomplish in the future.

05/27/2026

Today, the Marion Area Chamber of Commerce hosted Connections Council featuring guest speakers Wendy Weichenthal and Barb Scott from Marion Technical College.

The presentation focused on communication, soft skills, and how AI can be used as a helpful workplace tool.

Barb shared ways AI can improve productivity, consistency, and even help identify action items from emails — while reminding everyone to always proofread and never replace human judgment.

Wendy emphasized the importance of active listening, asking open-ended questions, and keeping communication concise and customer-focused.

Wendy also introduced the group to her guest, Jerry Harrison, who attended to learn more about the Chamber’s Connections Council and shared a few personal insights of his own during the discussion.

A great reminder that strong communication and listening skills continue to be essential in both business and everyday interactions!

05/26/2026

Spreading kindness across Marion one surprise at a time!

A huge thank you to Here Today for partnering with the Marion Area Chamber of Commerce and our amazing Ambassadors to help spread pay-it-forward vibes throughout our community.

Tranquility Hospice and Palliative Care
Gentiva Hospice
Shoe Sensation
Kingston Residence of Marion
Scioto Shoe Mart, Marion
Cornerstone Caregiving
Marion Matters, Inc.
Presidential Post Acute
The First Citizens National Bank

Pop'n&Roll'n
YummY Treats Candy & MORE
Lind Media Company


ProgressingTogether

05/25/2026

Ambassador Applause

The Marion Area Chamber of Commerce would like to give a special shoutout to Ambassador John Massey with Generations Realty for being such a dedicated member of our Ambassador Team!

John is a familiar face at ribbon cuttings, Business Before Hours, and Business After Hours events, always showing up to support fellow Chamber members and our community.

His commitment, positivity, and willingness to connect with others make him a true asset to the team.

One of the most inspiring things about John is watching his personal growth throughout his Chamber journey.

Although he once considered himself a very quiet introvert, he has truly stepped outside of his comfort zone, becoming more engaged, confident, and involved within the business community.

His growth is a great reminder of how the Chamber can help build connections, relationships, and leadership skills.

Thank you, John, for all you do to support the Chamber and the Marion community — we appreciate you! 👏

05/24/2026