An evening of celebration beginning with heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks and fellowship, will precede the program and presentation of awards to several outstanding, deserving citizens on Thursday, Jan. 23, when the Bainbridge-Decatur County Chamber of Commerce holds their annual meeting at the Charles H. Kirbo Regional Center at 6:30 p.m.
A review of what Chamber President Debbie Strickland said has been a very good year for the chamber will be given. “Membership continues to grow each year, and we are pleased that is the case.” She said when times are hard memberships are often the first thing people drop in order to cut back on expenses.
Other highlights she noted have been the success of the youth leadership program, as well as the reinstatement of the adult leadership program —the first in three years. Rivertown Days was “very successful” this year, as was the Ag Day – considered by many to have been the best in years, according to Strickland.
A ‘change of the guard’ will take place as outgoing chamber chair Scott Ewing passes the gavel to incoming chairman Jeff Findley. Three new board members, Maggie Smith, Randy Logue and Phil Long, will also begin three-year terms.
Awards to be made are the Pilot Club’s Woman of the Year and Kiwanis Man of the Year as well as the Montford Lynn Peace Officer of the Year. The Chamber Community service award and small business of the year will be announced, as well as educational achievements highlighted.
Strickland said a Pioneer award will be given this year. This award is not an annual event, but is given in recognition of a person who has pioneered or paved the way to make a change in the community.
Tickets are $25 per person and are available at the Chamber office Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The deadline to purchase tickets is Friday, Jan. 17. To reserve a ticket call 229-246-4774.