Brookhaven-Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce officials aretaking a slightly different approach this year as they plan for theorganization’s banquet.

The chamber’s 71st Annual Meeting is scheduled for Nov. 20 atthe Multi-Use Facility. A social time is at 6:30 p.m. followed bythe meeting at 7 p.m., said Chandler Russ, executivevice-president.

“It’s shaping up to be a wonderful evening where we’ll give outour awards and recognize our accomplishments during the past year,”Russ said.

David Phillips, outgoing chamber president, said the theme ofthe banquet is “Working for You.”

“We’re trying to highlight the value of the chamber in thecommunity and the many things the chamber does for our members,”Phillips said.

In a departure from speeches by politicians or others at pastannual meetings, Russ said organizers are trying to do some thingsdifferently this year. To that end, he said they are taking theopportunity to get the message out about chamber activities andinvolvement.

Following the usual handing out of Teacher of the Year, FarmFamily of the Year and other awards, Russ said the featured eventwill be a joint presentation by the chamber and IndustrialDevelopment Foundation. He said the presentation will focus on theevening’s “Working for You” theme, highlighting chamber results andaccomplishments of 2003.

“It’s going to be a really exciting and important presentation,”Russ said. “Our goal is to have some fun, fellowship andentertainment, as well as conduct the business of the meeting.”

Through corporate sponsorships, Russ said businesses may reservetables for the banquet. Individual tickets will also be availablefor the event that serves as a chamber fund-raiser.

Chamber officials are also working out plans to allow theIndustry of the Year and the 12 businesses of the month during 2003to set up booths during the event if they choose to.

Russ indicated time was another factor in meeting planning.

“It’s something people can come to and get home at a decenthour, but also hear a quality presentation on what our function androle in the community is and how we carry out that role,” Russsaid.

Phillips agreed.

“Our goal is to ‘Wow’ them with all the things the chamberdoes,” Phillips said.