Chamber honors outstanding citizens

By By Cliff Knight, Hartselle Enquirer
Hartselle Area Chamber of Commerce recognized four individuals as recipients of annual awards and announced new officers and directors for 2009 at its annual membership banquet held last week at Sparkman Civic Center.
Diana Sparkman received the Thomas M. Guyton Humanitarian Award; Doug Moss was named the recipient of the John J. Sparkman Citizenship Award; Mack Taylor was honored as recipient of the E.R. Roberts Business and Civic Award; and the Chamber’s Ambassador of the Year Award went to Sandi Johnson.
Sparkman was singled out as a community volunteer who works tirelessly to help make the city cleaner. Moss, a retired engineer, was recognized for his leadership and support of numerous civic and business causes. Taylor was cited for his 38-year tenure as manager, part owner and owner of Maison Morgan, a popular department store that closed earlier this year. Johnson was recognized for her dedication and loyal support of the chamber as one of its ambassadors.
Recognized as outgoing directors were immediate past chair Dona Bonnett, Fred Smith and Dr. Jason Stephenson.
Four new members of the board of directors were announced. They are Jeff Raines, Annette Dean, Jack Templeton and Tammy Lott.
The chamber’s officers for 2009 were also recognized. They are Angela Brandon, chairman of the board; Todd Whatley, chair-elect; Jason Preuitt, secretary-treasurer; Bonnett, immediate past chair; Susan Hines, president; and Madelyn Lynn, executive assistant.
Holdover directors are Matt Nail, Bob Jaques and Jeff Buettner.
State Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, was guest speaker for the annual event. Entertainment was provided by the Hartselle High School Performers and the meal was catered by The Oden House.
About 200 members and guests were in attendance.