Jackson Area COC observes 60th year at annual dinner
By Evan Carden SA Editor
 | | New and outgoing officers of the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce (L-R) include Jodi Walker, Jerry Reeves, Debra Etheredge, Nick Waugh, DeAnne Wilson, Althea Thomas, Michael Bedsole, Betty Powell, Clint Brown, Beth Criswell, Marty Parker and Director LaShaunda Holly. (SA photo by Evan Carden) |
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The H.W. Pearce Memorial Park Assembly House was packed last Thursday, Sept. 13, for the annual Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce dinner.
As part of the event the chamber celebrated its 60th year. Dottie Outlaw, who served as chamber executive for 23 years presented a history of the chamber. She was given a standing ovation at the end of her presentation.
New board of director members were elected for the upcoming year. They are Jodi Walker, Debra Etheredge, Tina Pugh and Michael Bedsole.
Marty Parker, the new chamber president, presented outgoing president Beth Criswell with a gift of appreciation for her service. Outgoing board members are Criswell, Alan Steel, Judy Graham and Daniel Berry.
Nick Waugh will serve as the chamber's new vice president and Betty Powell as treasurer. Remaining board members are Althea Thomas, Jerry Reeves, Clint Brown and DeAnne Wilson.
 | | Dottie Outlaw, who served as chamber executive for 23 years and current Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce Director LaShaunda Holly at last Thursday's dinner. (SA photo by Evan Carden) |
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During the meeting, Mayor Richard Long said, "Congratulations to all of the chamber members. Thanks for all you have done during 60 years of success. Let's continue to support the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce and all it does for the city of Jackson and the surrounding areas."
Brief updates were given on the Alabama Cities of Excellence (ACE) program and the Pine City Park effort.
As the new chamber president, Parker spoke about the Pine City Ambassadors program, which chooses local high school seniors to participate in learning how to become community leaders. Each participant is presented with a scholarship upon their completion of the program. "This program wouldn't be possible without the partnership with the city of Jackson."
 | | New chamber president Marty Parker presents outgoing president Beth Criswell with a gift of appreciation on behalf of the board of directors. (SA photo by Evan Carden) |
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Parker then turned his attention to the chamber members in attendance. "I would also like to thank those of you who are members of the chamber," said Parker. "I thank you for networking with other local businesses and members. We (the chamber) want to be a proactive part of this process and the ongoing progress in our area."
Dinner was prepared by Doshia's and was served by the Pine City Ambassadors. Recognition was given to Betty Powell and LaShaunda Holly for organizing the event.
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