Keizerites packed the Keizer Event Center last weekend, some wearing ball gowns and suits, to recognize those who serve and support the community. 

Residents and local leaders including Keizer City Council members, Keizer Mayor Cathy Clark and Salem Mayor Julie Hoy had the opportunity for a group photo behind the check-in counter before claiming seats at the elegantly-set round tables. Every seat was taken for the dinner program.

Photos of past Keizer First Citizens, Merchants of the Year and other award winners scrolled on large screens while attendees sipped on drinks from the bar and filled their plates with steak, chicken and mashed potatoes. But the main draw was the recognition of this year’s award winners. 

The occasion was the Keizer Chamber of Commerce’s annual banquet, rebranded “Celebrate Keizer,” on Saturday, Jan. 17. 

Straying from past years, the chamber announced the winners in advance: Joe Van Meter as 2025 First Citizen, Eric and Mandy Burdge of Odd Moe’s Pizza as Merchant of the Year, and Keizer Elementary School teacher Taylor Miller for the Service to Education award.

During the banquet, Megan Curran was announced as the Dennis Koho Future First Citizen and will receive a $1,500 scholarship. KBZY executive and chamber supporter Leslie Risewick received the President’s Award. 

In keeping with the new event name – and noted by Clark in her toast – the night was meant to celebrate the community as well as the award winners. 

“Our honoraries have chosen lives of service, excellence and determination that inspire, include, bless and build,” Clark said. “So tonight, let’s all raise a glass to celebrate Keizer. Who we are, and who we are becoming and who we can be for one another.” 

Each award winner approached the stage to the sound of a standing ovation and accepted accolades from chamber president Jeremy Turner, last year’s award winner or another community member. Van Meter was given a second standing ovation. 

“I’m grateful to this community, for what it’s given our family, and I’m proud to have made a small contribution to Keizer’s stable growth,” Van Meter said in accepting his award.

Other award winners expressed similar sentiments.

“We absolutely love being able to give back to the community as much as we can,” Eric Burdge said, after thanking residents for supporting the business. 

After the award presentation, two pianists took to the stage for a dueling pianos performance. Audience members brought up slips with song requests, and the duo took turns singing Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl,” Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” and more. 

NEWS TIP? Contact reporter Krista Kroiss at [email protected].

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