Becky Holland
ELLAVILLE — With the theme of “Experience the Spirit of Success, the Spirit of Schley,” as its mantra, the Ellaville-Schley County Chamber of Commerce held its 15th annual meeting on Friday at the Schley County High School cafeteria.
Members were welcomed by Chamber staff and officers, and were pleasantly surprised by the creative and colorful floral decorations on the tables and podium. Ellaville Florist and Gift Shop did a fantastic job in providing just the right touch to make the event spectacular, even on the cold, wintry and dreary evening that Friday was.
Current Chamber of Commerce President, Freddie Snider, called the meeting to order, and introduced the Rev. Ben Foxworth, pastor, Ellaville Baptist Church. Foxworth gave a challenging invocation.
Dinner was catered by Cousins Catering of Americus, and Robbie Pilcher provided musical entertainment.
Mayor David Theiss of Ellaville gave a few opening remarks after the incoming officers and directors were recognized as did Greg Barineau, chairman of the Schley County Board of Commissioners.
Dave Wills, chairman of the Webster County Board of Commissioners, was guest speaker. Wills, a farmer and graduate of Georgia Southwestern State University, is the husband of Rebecca, and father of Christin and Mitch, and grandfather of Dylon. He is a member of Preston Baptist Church, where he teaches Sunday School, is a deacon and a choir member. As a commissioner for Webster County, he has served 11 years in elective office, and is currently enrolled in the master’s of public administration program at Valdosta State University.
As he spoke of living in a rural community, the potential for growth and success, and shared his experiences as a member of the Board of Commissioners, the Association County Commissioners of Georgia, as well as being a member of the Middle Flint Regional Development Center Board of Director, members were encouraged to continue to strive for the best in Schley County.
Wills talked of singing as a hobby, but was very proud of being able to sing the national anthem twice at Atlanta Braves baseball games.
After he spoke, Snider stood and passed the gavel to John T. Greene, who will serve as president for the 2009 term with the Board of Directors of the Ellaville-Schley County Chamber of Commerce. Other offices are, Vice President Freddie Snider, Secretary Cindy Gill, Treasurer Kay McCarty and Board members Greg Barineau, Margaret Melton, Lillian Flynt and Maggarie McCluster.
