The 81st Annual Newport Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet will be held Thursday, March 2 at the Newport Country Club. The event will begin with a social hour at 5 p.m. Dinner starts at 6 p.m. at which time a short auction will be held as a 2017 Chamber fundraiser. Back by popular demand, the auction will feature bids for the Christmas parade grand marshal as well as street sign naming at Newport Lake. This is a great way to honor someone from your business or organization! Annual awards will be given following dinner including recognition for small business, large business, community pride and Jackson County’s outstanding citizen.