03 Aug 2025 Vilonia Chamber goes bananas

The Vilonia Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed native son Drake C. Toll as the keynote speaker of their annual event earlier this spring. Toll traveled from Savannah, Georgia, where he works as the voice of the Party Animals for the Savanna Banana baseball organization.

After a quick lesson in Banana ball, Toll shared the difficulties the organization overcame from its start. He provided examples and encouragement on how to stay motivated while navigating business challenges and roadblocks. 

Toll shared that he takes his hometown everywhere he goes, and even went so far as to write “Vilonia” on the Green Monster, the legendary left-field wall at Fenway Park, when he was given the opportunity to sign. The young man got his start in broadcasting at age 16 when he founded Eagle Vision, which is still the broadcasting home of Vilonia sports. After high school he went to Baylor University, where he furthered his broadcast career. His talents have taken him all over the United States, including a time in Anchorage, Alaska. But Savannah and the Banana Ball organization is now home, second to Vilonia of course.   

Master of Ceremonies John Kieth was in charge of keeping the crowd engaged and everything flowing smoothly. Chamber President Jackie Fowlkes presented plaques to several individuals and groups for their significant contributions of time and resources to support Vilonia.

President Jackie Fowlkes gave closing remarks and recognized the contributions of outgoing President Tanya Hendrix.