White County Probate Judge accepts Citizens of the Year Award
White County Sheriff Neal Walden Accepts Citizens of the Year Award
(Cleveland)- As a result of the Coronavirus, the White County Chamber of Commerce decided to change this year’s annual meeting and awards program to a virtual presentation. During the meeting, the chamber’s annual report and program of work were presented. In addition to the business section, the chamber took time to recognizes some deserving citizens.
The Citizen of the Year award has co-recipients, White County Sheriff Neal Walden and White County Probate Judge Garrison Baker.
Walden has served as sheriff of White County for almost 40 years and will retire in December. The camber in recognizing Sheriff Walden said, ” He doesn’t speak often, but when he does, it is important to listen.”
Judge Baker is completing 38 years of service to the county. In making the presentation the chamber said, In his professional capacity he is known broadly for his patience in matters of estate, kindness in matters of guardianship, and forbearance in matters of our elections processes. His peace is exhibited in the adjudication of misdemeanor violations, faithfulness in serving on the White County Ninth District Opportunity Board, and his goodness in serving in the White County Historical Society.
Other awards included:
Entrepreneur of the Year award that went to Ward Gann at Clyde’s Table and Tavern in Cleveland.
Business of the Year was awarded to Shanda Ginn and her staff at Cleveland Academy.
David and Janet Jones of Hansel and Gretel Candy Kitchen in Helen were awarded with the Civic Merit Award. Their investment in not only their business but the success of their employees, their community and the people of White County
Chuck Edwards was recognized and presented the Chairman’s Award.
The chamber each year recognizes a person who has committed their time and talent to the organization to help make it a success, this year’s Volunteer Award went to Mr. Jesse Harkins of Norton Mountain Insurance.
White County Chamber of Commerce President Beth Truelove said, ” The opportunity for White County Chamber to be a leader in economic vitality and quality of life for our residents has never been more promising. The Board of Directors is strategically developed to make sure that we carefully capitalize on every reasonable effort to help existing businesses rebound, new businesses start strong and our entire community to be prosperous for years to come.
This pandemic has shown the spirit of entrepreneurship here and offered the opportunity for the Chamber to assist all businesses at the start of the pandemic and forward as we grow back to pre-pandemic levels. Our future is bright and we encourage all businesses to look to the Chamber for solutions at this time, don’t try and go it all alone. “
