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Individuals and businesses that have made contributions to the Atmore community were honored during the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce’s 78^th annual Gala on March 1 at Wind Creek Casino and Hotel.

The annual event is held to recognize chamber members and trustees, and give awards to citizens and businesses that have helped the community over the last year.

Past and current chamber presidents made remarks, the 2024 board of directors and staffs were introduced and the chamber ambassadors were recognized.

“Atmore is continuing to grow right before our eyes,” Chamber President Dawn Campbell said. “I am always one for giving back to the community.”

Campbell said through the combined efforts of many, all strive to make Atmore what it is today.

Campbell thanked the chamber staff, trustees and chamber members as the Gala began.

“Let’s all come together to make Atmore a better place to live and work,” she said.

Past President David Dobson said this past year, there was a lot of good things to come to Atmore.

“It’s a team effort,” Dobson said. “Our goal at the chamber was to enhance the community. Each year we’re gaining more and more traction.”
Chamber Executive Director Anna introduced the 2024 Citizen of the Year award, which was awarded to Lillie Johnson.

Johnson said all her efforts for Atmore are done because this is her home.

“I’m so happy y’all have thought about me for this award,” Johnson said.

Main Street Atmore Executive Director Shinora Redmond introduced the 2024 Business of the Year award, which was awarded to Creek Clean LLC.

Owner Freddy Alvizo said the Atmore community has given them so much, and that he’s forever grateful.

Alvizo said the culture that comes from the community is great, and that he’s in love with it.

“I love everything about this town,” he said.

Dobson introduced the 2024 Lifetime Business of the Year award, which was awarded to Attorney Shirley Darby of Shirley Darby Attorney at Law.

“Atmore is a special place to work and live,” Darby said.

Poarch Band of Creek Indians Tribal Councilmember Keith Martin introduced the Lifetime Achievement Award, which was awarded to Eddie L. Tullis.

“He never lost site of where he came from,” Martin said about Tullis. “He was a mentor to many, and I am one of those lucky ones.”

Tullis said it’s a great honor to receive the award.

“We’ve been lucky, we’ve been blessed,” he said.