More than 220 business and community leaders gathered on Aug. 28 for the White County Chamber of Commerce annual meeting.
Kelly Wilkins, vice president of finance and accounting at Habersham EMC and the Chamber’s past chair, welcomed the crowd. She reviewed the Chamber’s accomplishments from the past year. The Business Block Party was a highlight, drawing more than 60 businesses and thousands of residents to Freedom Park. This year’s event added The Brew Lot.
Wilkins also celebrated advocacy wins, such as Tort Reform. She noted the growth of the Chamber’s business podcasts, which now feature more than 30 episodes. Tourism promotion campaigns like “Eat Near Home” and “Explore Near Home” also boosted the local economy.
Incoming chair Jessica Barton, owner of The Refined Table, shared the Chamber’s new five-year strategic plan. The plan focuses on professional development for business leaders, smart policy advocacy, and stronger programs for companies of all sizes. It also builds on education partnerships to expand internships and career pathways. Barton said the Chamber will also work with local governments on infrastructure, downtown projects in Helen and Cleveland, and healthcare solutions that create jobs and expand access to care.
Chris Clark, president and CEO of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, delivered the keynote address. He spoke about statewide business opportunities and challenges.
Awards and recognition
Highlighting the event was the recognition of area businesses and individuals.
The Citizen Of The Year Award was presented to Grace Fricks, the founding President and CEO of Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE). ACE has grown into Georgia’s largest community development financial institution, exclusively focused on small businesses, now providing more than $200 million in loans, supporting over 2,600 small businesses, and impacting more than 21,000 jobs across the state.
This year’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award went to Elizabeth Goad, owner of Livi Lou’s Sweets and Treats in Helen, Georgia.
The Volunteer Of The Year Award went to Anne-Michelle Holcombe, who has dedicated many hours to support the chamber in programs such as The MORE Campaign and the ladies’ Pearls of Wisdom event.
The Civic Merit Award was made posthumously to Tom Slick, the brilliant mind behind the creation of Nacoochee Village and his truly exceptional legacy of development, community, and vision.
Habersham EMC’s Trailwave Fiber Internet Service was awarded the Business Of The Year.
The Stellar Service Award, for outstanding customer service at a business or organization, was presented to Kielea Loggins of United Community Bank.
