By: WROYWRUL News
Oct 7th, 2013
(Carmi)-The Chamber of Commerce annual dinner is a time of transition for officers and the board of directors. Dr. Clint Taylor will replace Doug Devore as President of the Chamber.
Devore has been instrumental in the creation of a revised set of by-laws for the chamber. Those new rules were formally adopted at Monday’s dinner. The by-laws included a reorganization of the leadership structure and committees as well as new articles on membership.
Devore noted several other chamber accomplishments in the past year. They’ve developed a budget (approx. $62,000) and changed the structure of membership (now based on number of employees). The chamber has reestablished its Business After Hours social. Three events have already been held with two more planned in November and December.
The chamber puts on several events which enhance life in the community. These events include the White County Christmas celebration and the 4th of July fireworks. The chamber has established a new Yard of the Month program. They have also expanded their relationship with the school system, including the establishment of four new $250 grants.
Incoming President Dr. Clint Taylor says the city has great material resources but its most valuable commodity is its people. His goals for the next year include creating more industry and better jobs, assisting schools financially, providing better recreational opportunities, and stopping “the brain drain.”
Taylor says many of the “best and brightest” students go elsewhere for employment after college. Taylor believes the chamber can help solve many of these problems.
Aside from Taylor, the 2013-2014 Chamber Officers include Executive Director Ray Mitchell, Vice-President Debbie Hoskins, 1st Vice President Andy Acord, Treasurer Caleb Hughes, and Past President Doug Devore.
