The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce celebrated 76 years of service to the community during their annual meeting held on Thursday evening at the Gadsden State Cherokee Arena in Centre.

During the ceremony officials with the Chamber handed out a number of community service awards for 2022.

The Beautification Award is given to a business or organization that has made a special effort in improving their business’s physical appearance, thereby, making the street and area more appealing to visitors in Cherokee County. This year’s recipient was members of the Cherokee County Historical Preservation Society for their work at Estes Field in Centre.

The WA “Dub” Ellis Community Service Award is given to those who demonstrate dedication of time and money to support activities promoting Cherokee County. The award was presented to Mr. Sid Garrett.

The Mary George Waite Spirit Award is given to those who demonstrate “spirit” of cooperation, fostering of ideals and dedication to the community. Bill Hamlin, Owner of Little River Marina and Lodge was presented with the 2022 award.

The Chairman’s Merit Award is given to those who, through their business, acumen, advance Cherokee County’s Economic Climate. They have proved to be community spirited by working with other organizations to develop long range community projects. The 2022 recipient was Al & Ann Shumaker.

Other special recognition awards were presented to Harry Richardson and Bob Perry.

Following the 2021-2022 Chairman’s report by Chairman Brandy Pierce, Executive Director Theresa Hulgan presented him with the annual Chairman’s Award. The exchange of the Chairman’s Gavel was made as Pierce officially named Conrad Reed as the new Chariman of the Executive Committee for the upcoming year.

Special recognition was also given to Cherokee County’s own ‘Worth the Wait’ who provided entertainment for this year’s banquet.