The Highland County Chamber of Commerce welcomed more than 200 guests to its annual meeting and dinner on May 7, filling The Barn at Hidden Ridge in Hillsboro with an energetic crowd ready to celebrate the county’s business community. The event, themed Boots and Bling, blended a relaxed country atmosphere with the Chamber’s signature focus on connection, collaboration, and community growth.

Guests enjoyed a full spread of local food and drink, with dinner provided by All Seasons Catering, Shoelaces Catering, Maplecrest Meats & More, and Batter Up Bakery. Holtfield Station supplied beverages, and Huhtamaki Inc. donated plates and cups, underscoring the strong support from area businesses.

Throughout the evening, attendees heard remarks from Chamber Board Chairman Meghan Wagoner, who highlighted the organization’s 2025 accomplishments including 34 new members, 22 ribbon cuttings, and 24 Chamber events drawing nearly 2,000 participants. Board Treasurer Laura Burton delivered the annual financial report, and Executive Director Jamie Wheeler shared updates on ongoing Chamber initiatives.

The event also featured friendly competitions and raffles, with more than 20 local businesses contributing items for gift baskets. Proceeds from the raffles support the Chamber’s mission of advocating for local businesses and promoting economic and community development.

A wide range of sponsors helped make the evening possible. Platinum sponsors included All Axxiss, Bear Mechanical, First State Bank, Highland District Hospital, Huhtamaki, Lewis Financial, Merchants National Bank, National Cooperative Bank, RoofX, Seal-Tite LLC, Shafer Heating & Cooling, Southern Hills Community Bank, The Barn at Hidden Ridge, and Wilkin Heating & Air Conditioning Co., Inc. Gold, silver, and bronze sponsors represented dozens more businesses across Highland County and the region.

One of the night’s most memorable moments came when attendees lined up to ride a mechanical bull sponsored by Merchants National Bank. The prize, donated by DESRI, added an extra spark of excitement to the festivities.

The Chamber expressed gratitude to the many businesses and individuals who donated to the 20 raffle baskets, including Blossoms 'N Buds, First State Bank, HighCo, Hospice of Hope Ohio Valley, iHeart Media’s John Barney, Petland Hillsboro, The Sugar Shack, Zoom Drain, and several anonymous contributors.

Photos from the event are available on the Chamber’s Facebook page. Planning for the 2027 annual dinner will begin early next year as the Chamber continues its work to support and strengthen Highland County’s business community.