CLEVELAND, Tenn. (Jan. 6, 2010)—Outgoing Chamber Chairman of the Board Dr. Carl Hite, president of Cleveland State Community College, will highlight the Chamber’s 2009 program year and recognize volunteers at the 84th Annual Meeting of the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce. The meeting will convene Tuesday, Jan. 19, at 6:30 p.m. at Life Care Centers of America Professional Development Center on Keith Street.

 “Members of the business community continue to recognize that it makes good business sense to be a part of the one organization that strives on a daily basis to make our community a better and more economically sound place to live and work,” Chairman Carl Hite said. “Our efforts and accomplishments in 2009, including the Wacker Polysilicon announcement and completion of Whirlpool Corporation’s move from Oxford, Miss., to Cleveland, reflect this commitment to Cleveland and Bradley County.”

He added, “The continued financial support and commitment from the business community make it possible for us to move forward with programs and services to enhance our economic and community development efforts.”

Directors completing terms on the Chamber’s Board of Directors also will be honored: Allison Hamilton, Coldwell/Banker Hamilton & Associates; Bob Hardin, Whirlpool Corporation, Cleveland Division; Mark Hodgson, Chick-Fil-A; Hazel Key, Key Advertising Inc.; Gary Ray, Lee University; and Mickey Torbett, United Community Bank.

Other highlights of the evening will include presentation of the prestigious M.C. Headrick Free Enterprise Award and the Robert W. Varnell Jr. Leadership Award.

The Headrick Award commemorates the ideals of the late M.C. Headrick and recognizes a businessperson who exemplifies the best of the free enterprise system. Last year’s recipient was Robert (Bob) G. Card Jr., Taylor, founder and owner of Easy Auto Inc. and Sunrise Acceptance.

The Varnell Award, named for the late Robert W. Varnell Jr., honors selfless leadership in professional, religious and civic endeavors. Lou Patten, partner with Cornerstone Insurance Group, was last year’s recipient.

To purchase tickets, which will be available through Jan. 14, members may call the Chamber of Commerce at 472-6587.

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