April 7, 2014
To the members of the Clay County Chamber of Commerce, citizens and elected officials of Clay County:
As chamber president I am proud, excited, saddened and excited (again). I am proud to be able to live and work in Clay County. I am proud of our residents and chamber members that have supported the chamber and its leaders, both past and present, in the work that has been done to improve Clay County. I am proud to serve with my fellow board members and for their dedication, commitment and work ethic as we promote our great county and work to make it an even better place to live, work and play. I am also extremely proud of our Executive Director, Mary Patchunka Smith, and how she has poured herself into the job. Her energy and excitement is contagious and she has worked as hard as anyone I know to put Clay County on the map. Due to her efforts the Clay County Chamber of Commerce was awarded the 2012 Tourism Organization of the Year by the Alabama Tourism Department.
I am excited about the progress we have seen in Clay County and about the potential we have. The things that we often take for granted are highly sought-after and considered prime assets by those who live and work in urban areas. Our beautiful scenery, natural resources, friendly residents and laid-back lifestyle are assets that we can capitalize on. Clay County is located 90 miles from millions of people who love to visit areas like ours when they learn what we have to offer. Business and small industry leaders are looking to locate, or re-locate, in the southeast due to our lower cost and business friendly environment.
However, I am sad that our director will be leaving us. Mary has been noticed by others outside our county for the work she has done here. Community leaders and elected officials from surrounding areas have often commented to me that they wished they had someone like Mary on their team. So, it came as no surprise when Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce contacted her regarding an opening in their organization. Mary’s love of Clay County made it a difficult decision, but after some serious considera-tion (and a few tears) she has decided to do what is in the best interest of her family. She will be joining the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce as Director of Travel and Tourism effective April 12, 2014. Change can be difficult, but our chamber board is committed to work together to manage this change and keep the momentum moving in a positive direction.
I am excited again; for our friend Mary as she advances into a new position and for our county as we continue to move forward. We are losing a great leader, but we still have the same potential and amazing assets and opportunities. The chamber board will be meeting with our elected officials and community leaders to solidify our common vision and their continued support. We will then seek a qualified and committed individual to fill the position created by Mary’s departure. Public announcements will be placed in the local media outlets so that all interested persons will have opportunity to apply.
Respectfully,
Stan Gaither
President of the Board
Clay County Chamber of Commerce
Last modified: April 9, 2014
