The Payson Santaquin Chamber of Commerce has announced its Annual Awards Gala, a semi-formal event themed "Garage to Great: Powering America 250" to coincide with the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. The celebration, which has historically gathered over 100 local businesses and community leaders, will be held at Moments on Main in Payson.
Featured Guest Speakers
The event, located at 67 N. Main St. in Payson, will feature guest speakers Major General Jefferson Burton and Charn Burton. Major General Burton is a member of the Utah House of Representatives who served more than 37 years on active duty with the U.S. Army and the Utah National Guard. His military career includes commanding the 1457th Engineer Combat Battalion during the initial ground invasion of Iraq from 2003 to 2004, and serving in Europe during the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1989.
Charn Burton, who holds a PhD in Pastoral Counseling, will also speak. She serves as the Supervising Instructor for Clinical Pastoral Counseling with the World Spiritual Health Organization (WSHO), where she provides training for clinical chaplains in hospice, hospital, and corrections settings. Her professional work has focused on mental health and suicide prevention.
Event Theme and Details
The gala's theme, "Garage to Great: Powering America 250," follows the 2025 theme, "Garage to Great." The Chamber noted that the new theme recognizes the "American Startup" as a significant success story as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. The organization aims to honor the business owners, nonprofits, and leaders who act as the engine of the local community.
Tickets for the event are priced at $35.00 each and include a meal provided by R&R BBQ. The festivities are scheduled to begin at 6 PM. Additionally, the Chamber will offer a $10 "Balloon POP" fundraiser, with all proceeds benefiting a local High School Scholarship program.
Sponsorship Opportunities
The Chamber of Commerce offers several sponsorship tiers to support its various community initiatives and events. Presenting Sponsors receive the highest level of visibility, including the largest logo placement on event signage, printed materials, and the event webpage, as well as verbal recognition in media interviews or public mentions when applicable. This tier also includes a dedicated social media spotlight post, inclusion in event recap posts, priority booth or table placement, the opportunity to provide branded materials, and recognition in the Chamber newsletter.
Supporting Sponsors receive prominent logo placement on event signage, printed materials, and the event webpage, along with verbal recognition during events when applicable. Supporting Sponsors also receive social media spotlight posts, booth or table space, and recognition in the Chamber newsletter. Community Sponsors are provided with small logo placement on the event webpage and select event signage, limited social media recognition, and available booth space.
Community Engagement Programs
The Chamber provides sponsorship opportunities for a variety of community-focused programs and events. These include the Athlete of the Week program, Monthly Meet & Eat Lunches, the Annual Gala, the Hometown Market, the South County Business Summit, the Garage to Great Workshop, the Payson Christmas Festival, and the Community Guide Magazine.
By participating in these sponsorships, local businesses can connect with customers, build relationships, and support events that bring the community together. The Chamber describes these investments as a way to increase brand awareness, reach ideal audiences, and maximize exposure through various promotional channels.
Corporate Partnerships
Mountainland Technical College (MTech) and Wayfarer Theater have been recognized as Stars and Stripes Sponsors for their support of the gala. The Chamber noted that such partnerships play a vital role in helping the organization achieve its mission and strengthen the local community.
Community Mission
The Payson Santaquin Chamber of Commerce seeks to provide businesses with opportunities to showcase their brands while giving back to the region. Through these various events and sponsorship levels, the organization aims to foster local prosperity and build a bright future for the community.
