By CAROLYN CARY
ccary@thecitizennews.

Outgoing chairman of the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce, Michael Whiteside, reviewed the past year at the chamber's 33rd Annual Banquet.

“We addressed transportation issues, supported the SPLOST tax for education, started our campaign `Yes, We Are' proud to be in Fayette County.

“We promised last year that the chamber would act on your behalf as the voice of business in our community and we have done that,” said Whiteside.

He pointed out that during the year the chamber met with local officials seeking their input and support for the business community, participated in the 3rd congressional District fly-in to Washington, D.C. and addressed concerns at the federal level on transportation, environment and received information from the Small Business Administration.

“Our mission statement says, `We will work together to achieve a favorable business climate' and were pleased that over 60 organizations had exhibits at our Business Expo this past year,” said Whiteside. “We offer a Small Business Council, a Home Based Business Council and recognize local companies who contribute to Fayette County through payroll and contributions by instituting the Spirit of Industry Awards,” he added.

Whiteside is president/CEO of Coweta-Fayette EMC.