The Milledgeville- Baldwin County Chamber of Commerce held a member appreciation event Oct. 30, sponsored by Georgia Military College at the NewDay USA Center of Leadership. Chamber members gathered to mingle, enjoy a buffet-style dinner, and celebrate another year of community connection.
The event provided an opportunity for the community’s key business leaders, chamber partners, and local officials to participate in networking. A brief presentation of remarks recognized the role local businesses play in the economic growth and success of Milledgeville and Baldwin County.
Members in attendance had the opportunity to meet GMC’s new president Maj. Gen. Terrence J. McKenrick, U.S. Army (Ret.), who stepped into the position in June.
“I hope tonight's guests feel an appreciation for this beautiful center of leadership, this building, and this event the chamber has hosted to allow people to get to know each other, to socialize a little bit, and to create partnerships,” said McKenrick.
Kara Lassiter, president and CEO of the Milledgeville- Baldwin County Chamber of Commerce, has worked at the chamber for the last 10 years. She thanked GMC for hosting the event and partnering with the chamber.
“This is an annual event and one we always look forward to. It's a way for us to give back to the members for their continuous support throughout the year,” Lassiter said.
“I think hosting here at GMC is great because it allows our businesses to see where the future workforce is learning and gaining their education.”
“Community is important, and here we all are working to support each other. These events are a chance to celebrate other businesses,” said chamber member Nancy Galloway.
“They had a ribbon cutting for us when we opened,” she added, reflecting on the process of opening Galloway Flooring with her husband, Ron Galloway. “These events kind of allow you to touch base and see those faces again.”
The event strengthened connections among local businesses, nearby educational institutions, and local political leaders, continuing the chamber’s role in collaboration and community engagement within Baldwin County.
“The chamber's impact on the community is extremely important because without something in place to help move new businesses along and assist small businesses, it's much harder for them to grow,” said Mayor Milledgeville Mary Parham-Copelan.
“The city of Milledgeville and the Chamber of Commerce have a wonderful partnership.”