Terrell County Chamber of Commerce brings back annual meeting, celebrates a year of growth

DAWSON — The Terrell County Chamber of Commerce hosted its 78th annual meeting Tuesday evening, encouraging local businesses and community members to network and celebrating those that stood out in the county.

The meeting celebrated the influx of new businesses brought to the county in 2024 – a grocery store, fast food restaurants, a senior center and more – while also giving community members a chance to connect with each other. 

Cheryl Cannon, the chamber’s executive director, said it was the first annual meeting that had been held in several years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and staff turnover. Cannon officially stepped into her chamber role in December 2023 and called her first year a “learning experience,” as she rebuilt the organization from the ground up. 

“I’m excited that we’re able to get the community back together,” she said. “There’s been so much turnover, which is why this year we felt the need to do more of a networking opportunity, so people got the chance to talk to each other. I think in our community we need more of that.”

The chamber recognized several businesses and community members with for various awards. Cannon said they were chosen because they stuck by the chamber as she navigated her first year leading it. 

“This year, the chamber really didn’t do much,” she said. “It was a mess when I started, and we had to build it back. We chose the businesses that hung on, stuck with us and supported the community.”

She said Paul’s Restaurant, a Dawson staple, helped serve youths in need of meals during the summer, and Mark’s Melon Patch, another county centerpiece, continued doing things to improve the community and draw people in. 

About 80 people shuffled in and out of Dawson’s Clay Communion pottery shop for the Chamber event, a number Cannon is proud of.

“Seeing everybody that attended, this is a huge thing bringing these community members together because there’s a divide in the community,” she said. “But the chamber is a neutral party. Holding an event like this lets everybody come together and leave politics behind.” 

The county and its largest city, Dawson, have been working to overcome leadership challenges and changes. In March 2026, an investigation into the city manager found misconduct and violations of operational procedures, leading to the non-renewal of his contract. The position was recently taken over by Cherysh Green-Caldwell, who’s been with the city for about one month now.

For several years the Terrell County’s Chamber of Commerce also struggled with stability. Cannon called her first year as the executive director a “building block headed in the right direction of where we need to be.” 

Terrell County Commission Chairman Wilbur Gamble said the county’s leadership is happy and excited about the work Cannon is doing.

“We need a person on the ground that can go and promote Terrell County and try to show industries what we have to offer,” he said. “We feel like she’s been very successful. The turnout for today is kind of an indication of that.” 

Gamble said the county has had an explosion of growth in the last three years – the most he’s seen in his lifetime. He pointed to 10 new, substantial businesses, “tremendous growth” in sales taxes and flourishing school systems as Terrell Academy boasts the largest enrollment it’s ever had. 

“If you took a picture of Terrell County on Highway 520 coming into Dawson three years ago and looked at it today, you almost wouldn’t recognize where you’re at,” he said. “We’re excited and we want to keep building on it.”

Gamble said he’s especially excited about those new businesses that bring a significant number of jobs to the area. He said the county has two or three great prospects coming to its industrial parks; although, he couldn’t give specifics quite yet.

He said the county’s No. 1 priority is job growth, followed by population growth, which he said Terrell is perfectly positioned for because of its proximity to the Albany metro area. 

Gamble said a stable Chamber of Commerce is key to building the relationships needed to achieve these priorities.

“I’m excited for the future,” Cannon said. “We have bigger and better things on the horizon.”

Awards included:

Unsung Hero Award
Presented to: Mr. Lamar Beavers

With heartfelt gratitude, we recognize your unwavering dedication and behind-the-scenes contributions. Your efforts, though often unseen, have made an invaluable impact and are profoundly valued and deeply appreciated.

Hidden Gem Award
Presented to: WealthyLife Academy, Inc.

In recognition of a hidden gem in our community, a lesser-known business with great potential and a wealth of offerings yet to be fully discovered.

Heart of the Community Award
Presented to: Paul’s Restaurant

In recognition of a business that embodies the true spirit of community, going above and beyond to uplift, inspire, and make a lasting difference. Your unwavering dedication and selfless contributions demonstrate the profound impact of building a sense of family and belonging within the community.

Emerging Business of the Year
Presented to: Dawson Metal Co.

In recognition of an emerging business that has hit the ground running, demonstrating exceptional promise and growth. Keep up the excellent work as you continue to make your mark on the community!

Non-Profit Excellence Award
Presented to: Golden Triangle RC&D

In recognition of your unwavering dedication, compassion, and transformative impact. This award honors those who champion vital causes, inspire collective action, and illuminate the path to a brighter future for those in need. Your work serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of perseverance and kindness.

Community Pride Award
Presented to: Mark’s Melon Patch

In recognition of your exceptional dedication to the community, demonstrated through impactful events, continuous growth, and a commitment to bringing people together. Your contributions have played a vital role in strengthening our community.

Community Caregiver Award
Presented to: S & S Adult Day Health

In recognition of your unwavering dedication to providing compassionate care, overcoming challenges, and meeting a vital need in our community. Your resilience and commitment to those who rely on your services are truly inspiring.