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Geared for Growth |
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While it was a time to honor people and businesses who have been of service to their community, Chamber President Marion Mason had one joking question for all who attended — when will the building be ready? The building in question is the new Chamber offices along Highway 59 in Robertsdale. According to Robertsdale city officials, it will take about four to six weeks to complete the new building and install all the finishing touches. They are so close, the Robertsdale officials surprised outgoing Chamber president Peggy Nelson with an outsized “key" to the new building. “We know you’ve been looking for this,” said Robertsdale Mayor Charles Murphy as he presented the key to Nelson. The evening was a time to congratulate members (or “Investors” as they are now called) on work well done. It was also a time to look to the future. Mason outlined some key points of the Chamber’s “program of work,” the framework for next year’s Chamber activities. Mason said the program was developed after polling the Chamber’s investors. “The program involves financial management, recruiting new businesses, researching and implementing beautification plans for our communities, and gearing business seminars to the needs of investors,” said Mason. “What we can do is get a plan in place now so that we are positioned and we are ready when the economy takes a turn upward,” Mason said. Several awards were presented. The Woman of the Year was Sylvia Mattingly, who was recognized for more than 30 years of service last year when Baldwin Youth Services named their home for girls in Silverhill for her. Mattingly has also been active in the Chamber and Robertsdale Rotary, Club Kathy Fleet, winner of last year’s “Woman of the Year” award, presented the award to Mattingly. Man of the Year was Walter Penry, who served six terms representing Baldwin County in the Alabama House of Representatives. According to Steve Grant, the 2007 award winner, Penry shepherded legislation for repairs to the area after Hurricane Frederic. He also helped establish the Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Volunteer of the Year: Kay Arnette, who has been active in many chamber and community activities, especially the Chamber’s “Flavors of the South” event. Business awards were selected by the communities, and the mayors of each city or town presented them. The winners were: Summerdale - Palm Lake Resort. Loxley - Citizens’ Bank. Robertsdale - Waters Corner. Silverhill Advantage Business Solutions. Continue » |
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