(Cleveland)- The White County Chamber of Commerce held its annual meeting of membership Wednesday at the Bridge Church in Cleveland. The annual meeting gives the chamber an opportunity to review the past year’s accomplishments and share goals for the future.
During the meeting board chairman, Ward Gann recognize several outstanding businesses and individuals. The first was the Entrepreneur of the Year, which recognizes an entrepreneur who has been in business for a minimum of three years, has developed his or her business to meet changing community and consumer demands, and most of all represents today’s entrepreneurial spirit. Mervin Barbree of Café International and The Cottage House Restaurant received that award.
Mervin Barbree- Cafe International and Cottage House Restaurant -Photo Dean Dyer
Gilbert Barrett-
Gilbert Barrett of White County Farmer’s Exchange was recognized as the Civic Merit Award Winner. An award to a business leader who has been in business for at least 15 years and has made a significant contribution to the community through volunteerism, monetary support, community spirit, and outstanding merit.
Chris Autry, Warrior Fitness- Dean Dyer
The Business of the Year award went to Chris and Sandy Autry of Warrior Fitness for their exceptional investment in the vitality of White County.
Carol Jackson Photo Dean Dyer
Carol Jackson was recognized as the 2023 Citizen of the Year for her involvement in community-oriented projects which are beneficial to the community as a whole.
Blake Boggs -Photo Dean Dyer
Every year the chamber recognizes an individual for their exceptional service to the chamber by the Volunteer of the Year award. This year that went to Blake Boggs, with Alco Realty, Inc.
Korri Gibson- Photo Dean Dyer
For the first time, this year the chamber presented a Stellar Service Award. It acknowledges those whose unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction has set them apart as shining examples. The award went to Korri Gibson, Assistant Director at Cleveland Academy, Childcare Center.
Shanda Ginn 2023-24 Board Chair (L) Ward Gann, 2022-23 Board Chair and Beth Truelove, Chamber President- Photo Dean Dyer
Gann handed over the chairman’s gavel to Shanda Ginn, who will serve as the leader of the 2023-24 board of directors.
Ginn said she is excited about a Workforce Development Initiative they will be implementing “ I know a lot of businesses today we do have a labor force shortage and this workforce development led by Carol Jackson is going to help us to train and put some students through school and get them the trade skills they need to come back in our workforce,” said Ginn.
