Despite an unexpected winter storm that required flexibility and last minute adjustments to the program, Salute to Business 2026 served as a powerful reminder of the resilience and shared purpose that define Temple’s business community. The Temple Chamber of Commerce 119th Annual Dinner Meeting brought together business, civic, and community leaders for an evening focused on reflection, connection, and the work ahead.

The evening featured keynote remarks from James “Jim” W. Keyes, a globally respected business leader and former CEO of 7-Eleven and Blockbuster. Drawing from his personal journey and decades of executive leadership, Keyes delivered a message centered on one clear theme: change, when approached with intention and courage, creates opportunity.

Jim Keyes, 2026 Salute to Business Keynote Speaker

His reflections on education, adaptability, and overcoming fear resonated strongly with the Chamber’s ongoing focus on steady leadership, long-term vision, and helping businesses navigate an increasingly complex environment.

That message closely mirrors the Temple Chamber’s own evolution. Over the past year, the organization sharpened its focus on advocacy, meaningful connection, and practical tools that help businesses make informed decisions; embracing change not as disruption, but as a catalyst for progress. In 2025, the Temple Chamber took 17 formal policy positions across the local, state, and federal levels, ensuring the voice of business remained present where decisions are made.

Salute to Business also marked an important leadership transition for the Chamber. Outgoing Board Chair Ken Reeves was recognized for his thoughtful, steady leadership and commitment to collaboration during a year marked by both challenge and momentum.

Under his guidance, the Chamber strengthened partnerships, advanced strategic priorities, and continued delivering value to a growing membership, welcoming 125 new Members over the past year.

The evening concluded with the ceremonial passing of the gavel to incoming Board Chair Camryn Bintz, who shared a forward-looking message focused on engagement, connection, and collective impact. As the Chamber looks ahead to the year before it, that sense of shared responsibility and optimism remains central to its work.

The Temple Chamber of Commerce extends sincere appreciation to its sponsors, partners, and Members whose continued support makes this signature gathering, and the Chamber’s broader mission possible. Major sponsors recognized for Salute to Business 2026 include Platinum Sponsors the City of Temple, Central National Bank, McLane Group, and Meta; as well as Diamond Sponsors Emerson Construction, Extraco Banks, Hill & Wilkinson General Contractors, and BKV.

As the Chamber steps into the year ahead, it does so energized by a clear sense of purpose to support business, strengthen community, and embrace opportunity. Grounded in steady leadership and guided by courage, the Chamber remains focused on helping businesses move forward with confidence, even in times of change.