The Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce held its annual changing of the guard luncheon this past week. This year there was also a special guest - a rare snow storm that arrived about the time the luncheon began.

T.Pat Cavanaugh, the publisher of the News, took over leadership of the Chamber board from past Chairman Thua Barlay.

The Chamber also honored some outstanding members of the community; Mayor Randy Mills was awarded with the distinguished A.R.  Barksdale Lifetime Achievement Award, named after one of the Chamber’s founders and visionary community leader Gus Barksdale.

The James P. Culpepper award was presented to Earl Wise for his leadership and volunteer work in the Chamber.

The Community Spirit award was presented to the Macedonia Baptist Church along with more than a dozen local groups and individuals for their assistance in helping the Glass family who tragically lost four children in a house fire.

The Education Partner of the Year was the Kroger Corporation.

We are fortunate in Conyers/Rockdale to have a strong and active Chamber. The quality and character of the winners mentioned above proves that every day. We indeed have a great community to call home. This is made possible by you and everyone who chooses to roll up their sleeves and get involved in keeping it great and making it greater.