LETTER: Clarifies Chamber selection process

The Barrow County Chamber’s Women in Business Committee started, last year, hosting a luncheon to honor a Barrow County businesswoman who has meant much to both their business, and Barrow County. Our inaugural selection last year of Gwen Hill of Hill’s Ace Hardware enabled us to recognize a woman who has dedicated herself to both her business, and her community.

And of all of this year’s nominees, Mrs. Maddox stood out as the most deserving, in a group of excellent nominees. However we understood the situation occurring within our business environment, and wanted to make sure that our selection would be met with the approval, and in good taste, with the Maddox family.

That’s why we discussed the nomination, and ensuing selection, with the Maddox family, prior to announcing Mrs. Maddox as this year’s recipient. We were met with enthusiastic confirmation, and appreciation.

Mr. Mauldin had privately e-mailed his concerns to me, to which I privately responded. As he has publicly questioned our selection, I’d like to publicly respond.

Sincerely,

Tommy Jennings, President

Barrow County
Chamber of Commerce