Greater Dalton Chamber hosts annual meeting

James Swift, The Daily Citizen, Dalton, Ga.
·3 min read

Nov. 9—The Greater Dalton Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 83rd annual meeting at the Dalton Convention Center on Wednesday.

"It's a testimony to our enduring commitment to excellence and growth in our community," stated chamber President and CEO Jason Mock in the event's opening remarks. "This year's gathering holds particular significance, as we not only commemorate our past achievements but also look ahead with optimism and determination."

The local "entrepreneurial spirit" continues to set Dalton and Whitfield County apart from other communities, he continued.

"It's the driving force behind our community's success," he said. "And it's what makes Greater Dalton the place where dreams become reality."

Outgoing chamber Board of Directors Chair Amanda Reed also spoke at the event.

"The chamber is really a place where members feel heard, where they should feel heard, and we can adapt to the changes of not only business but the environment and the landscape of our community," she said. "Our diplomats are the unsung heroes of this organization, the member volunteers, they dedicate their time, they dedicate their energy and their efforts to promote the Greater Dalton Chamber ... they have a positive impact and create a positive image of our chamber."

That provided a natural segue to the announcement of the organization's 2022-23 Diplomat of the Year, Dalton Funeral Home Manager Tim Rowe.

"He is a force of positivity and enthusiasm and unwavering commitment to our organization and our community," Reed said. "He's someone the chamber can count on each and every day ... his outstanding service embodies the spirit of the chamber."

Reed also handed out the Chairman's Award at the luncheon.

This year's honoree is local chamber Chief Operating Officer Phyllis Stephens, who joined the organization in 1981.

"This award acknowledges extraordinary service to the chamber," Reed said. "This year it's being presented to someone who has dedicated decades to the chamber, an incredible 42 years ... this person has been an unwavering pillar of support and a driving force behind the success of our chamber."

Stephens addressed the hundreds of attendees in the audience.

"I'm truly honored," she said. "It's been amazing, I look forward to these next few years to enjoy more family time."

In a symbolic gesture, board Chair-elect John Minor received the ceremonial chamber gavel from Reed on Wednesday afternoon.

"I have full confidence that this organization in his capable hands will go far," Reed said. "I'm excited to see how the chamber will evolve under his leadership."

The event concluded with Minor unveiling a new logo for the local chamber.

"This is our new identity for the chamber," he said. "It's something we've been working on for a while and I think the colors and the design are really forward-thinking elements in there ... we wanted to take an image that sort of not only refreshes the chamber's image, but also aligns our look with Believe Greater Dalton and the Dalton-Whitfield Joint Development Authority."