Harrell, Fehr, Drew, Flower Shop earn annual honors

Metal trains, outreach and annual awards highlighted the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce’s 73rd annual meeting and chamber gala on Feb. 8 at Wind Creek Casino and Hotel.

During the executive director’s remarks, Emily Spurlock Wilson said the chamber, over the past year, reached more than 1.25 million people via social media. The chamber’s average monthly posts increased by 306 percent, and the average monthly page growth was 5 percent. In 2018, the chamber had 1,088 new followers on Facebook.

Over the last year, the chamber has gained 34 members, held 13 ribbon cuttings, held eight business of the month recognitions, 10 business and breakfasts and 42 chamber events, including nine new events.

“We worked hard for you this year,” Wilson said. “We are getting you guys out there.”

Wilson said the mural on the side of the chamber building was the catalyst for change.

Additionally, the executive director announced that through the chamber, Gulf Coast RC&D, Brown Precision and Coastal Alabama Community College, Escambia County High School students will be designing and crafting metal trains for the city.

Past President Brandy Giger thanked the chamber board for all their efforts.

“I’m thankful for my First National Bank and Trust family,” she said. “And to Zac (husband) for being both mom and dad to our kids.”

Incoming President Jordan Barnett said the chamber wants to make Atmore the best it can be.

“With continued support, we will move forward,” she said.

Fehr Painting Contracting LLC was named the 2019 Business of the Year; Escambia County Schools Assistant Superintendent Beth Drew was named the 2019 Citizen of the Year; Escambia County Healthcare Authority Chairman Ruth Harrell was named the 2019 Lifetime Achievement award winner; and Atmore Flower Shop was named the 2019 Lifetime Business of the Year.