By By Lisa Tindell
One Atmore resident and an Atmore organization were honored during Thursday’s annual Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Banquet.
Dorothy “Dottie” Albert was honored as the Citizen of the Year by the organization during the event with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians named as Lifetime Achievement Award honoree.
Following solo performances by Perry Jones, Felecia Bishop, Haley Murphy and Ryan Carter, guests heard remarks from outgoing Chamber President Cindy Lee.
Lisa Reynolds, incoming president for the organization, also addressed those gathered.
In a presentation honoring Albert, Ryan Carter recounted the accomplishments of this year’s Citizen of the Year.
Carter also listed an array of other community involvement areas of the honoree, including:
Society,” Carter said. “Many years ago, there was a cancer society chapter in Atmore. Members of this chapter drove cancer victims to doctors’ appointments and chemotherapy sessions. They also made sure the families were taken care of.”
Carter also explained how Albert put the needs and concerns of others before her own, even in times of tragedy.
Lee presented information regarding the Lifetime Achievement Award winner, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.
Relay for Life, United Fund and the Chamber to assist with educational programs, youth sports, emergency services and quality of life services for young and old—all given without desire for self recognition or gain. Not only is time dedicated to these efforts but financial resources are given as well. The recipient has accepted the responsibility of being a worthy and wholesome partner in our community.”
Lee said the Poarch Band of Creek Indians has had a vision for the community and has promoted that vision by creating economic opportunities and jobs for citizens in the area.
Lee further stated the Poarch Band of Creek Indian’s lineage traces back to a time before Atmore was a city, Alabama was a state and before the United States of America was even a nation.
The Poarch Band of Creek Indians is nationally known for outstanding cultural contributions and has been the recipient of National manufacturing awards, Lee said.
Other achievements noted for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians included,
Also during Thursday’s event, Gulf Winds Federal Credit Union was introduced as corporate partner for the Chamber for 2010. Chris Rutledge, president and CEO of the organization spoke on behalf of Gulf Winds.