By BECKY CRISSMAN

becky.crissman@gaflnews.com

VIENNA — The Dooly County Chamber of Commerce held its annual banquet at Williams Gymnasium here.

The purpose of the banquet is to reflect on the past year and all the accomplishments made by the chamber leadership and welcome the new leadership for the coming year. Exiting chairman Brad Ray commented on the amazing year Dooly County has had.

“In a time of so many challenges — financial uncertainty, educational deficits, lack of resources, and increasing joblessness we have banded together to meet a common goal.” said Ray.

“We have turned to each other to provide support, to encourage communication and to collaborate among our own resources for the betterment of our communities.”

After the posting of the colors and invocation dinner was served. Ray recognized the board of directors for the 2008 year and presented the directors for the coming year.

Several honors were given out to a number of sponsors. Awards were given as well. Valecia Sales was honored by Ray as the Volunteer of the year. Ray then passed the gavel on to Stephanie Langley, 2009 chair of the board ofdirectors.

“I appreciate the support I have had thus far and look forward to continued support as we journey through the next year,” said Langley. “The theme for the Chamber of Commerce in 2009 is Key to Success. We all can be keys to the success of Dooly County.”

The night ended with magician/comedian Erick Olson entertaining the crowd with his humorous magic. A cross between Jay Leno and David Copperfield, Olson combines magic, comedy, visual gags and one liners, to create an action packed show complete with plenty of audience participation.