New members were welcomed and leaving members were thanked at the annual membership banquet of the Cannon County Chamber of Commerce.A special recognition was made to Cliff Swoape after completion of two six year terms on the board. Swoape is credited with Cannon County, Woodbury and Auburntown becoming members of the state’s 3-Star Program.
Sue Patrick filling in for her husband, Woodbury Mayor Harold Patrick presented a key to the city. Patrick spoke of Swoape’s dedication to community, “he is currently serving a District Governor for Lions International.”
County Executive Mike Gannon announced that Thursday, January 27th was Cliff Swoape Day in Cannon County. Gannon said, “with Cliff’s work we are a better community.”
Doug Combs served as master of ceremonies for the banquet and spoke of his friend, “If Cliff Swoape were a car, it would be a very simple one. There would be no need for a transmission, he only knows how to go forward. No gas pedal, he only knows how to go full speed and there would be no need for a key, once you turn Cliff on to a program, there is no stopping him.”
Leaving the board of directors after serving a three year term were Rick McFerrin (McFerrin Printing) and Terry Bogel (DTC Communications).
New officers for the year are Michelle Fowler of Stones River Hospital will serve as president, Jacque Head of Cannon Senior Center will be vice-president and Mindy Gunter with First Bank will serve as treasurer.
New board members are Neal Appelbaum, the county’s 3 Star Program Director, Tarron Johnson with DTC Communications and Joann Tate, owner of Jennings Jewelers.
