For the first time, the Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce will recognize a Business or Organization of the Year at its annual meeting.

As in years past, the chamber also will hand out awards to a Citizen of the Year and Junior Citizen of the Year.

The organization’s 76th annual meeting will be Saturday, Jan. 25, at Ellsworth’s American Legion building. The buffet opens at 5:30 p.m.

Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce Director Tami McGreevy said the event will culminate in a reverse raffle of sorts — a sweepstakes with a $5,000 giveaway. Chances of winning will increase for attendees as the night goes on.

This is the second year for the reverse raffle.

The chamber plans to sell 140 raffle tickets ahead of time with five tickets to be auctioned off Saturday night. Attendees will have an opportunity for a one-in-ten chance to win with five ultimate cash prizes to be given away starting at $250 and going all the way up to a grand prize of $5,000.

Rick Stroede was the big winner in 2019.

Tickets are $100 per couple and include one number to enter into the raffle. They are available at the chamber office, Kirkham Michael or Classy Lady Boutique, all in downtown Ellsworth.

For ticket inquiries, call (785) 472-4071 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays.