BUSINESS MATTERS

Karin Hopkins

Marquez James is earning respect and confidence as Tuskegee Police Chief, a position he has held since last May. He has a vision and a plan, which he is implementing as best he can, considering the monumental challenges that came with the job. In spite of the obstacles, he has increased police presence in the community and that even applies to the chief himself. He’s in the streets doing police work, in neighborhoods listening to concerns from Tuskegee residents and at community meetings, including the Tuskegee Area Chamber of Commerce. He was with us in June and July, along with Assistant Police Chief, Loyd Jenkins.  And for the record, Jenkins’ first name is spelled with one “L.”  The chief also will join us in August and at future Chamber meetings.  Last month, he was among three speakers who enlightened Chamber members about important issues affecting all of us in profound ways. We heard from State Representative Pebblin Warren who was fresh from her re-election victory and Dr. Jacqueline Brooks, Superintendent of the Macon County school system. In addition to reports from community leaders, we also get updates on significant projects from TACC treasurer Bobby Davis, who is also Vice Chairman of the Macon County Economic Development Authority (MCEDA) and TACC Vice President Roland Vaughan who has an integral role concerning developments at Exit 38.  TACC meetings are a great way to learn what is happening and what is on the horizon in the Macon County area. Gerald Long, General Manager at the Utilities Board of Tuskegee (UBT) will be a guest speaker at the next TACC meeting. This will be an ideal time to ask questions about why UBT recently bought a large tract of land and how this property will benefit the community. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 27, 2018 beginning at 6:30pm at the Macon County Schools transportation building on MLK Highway across from Booker T. Washington High School. We welcome current members as well as anyone who is curious about the Chamber. You can join at the meeting or online by visiting the TACC Website at www.tuskegeeareachamber.org. Remember, the Chamber has a long list of community-related priorities, mechanisms for individual engagement and an open invitation to everyone who shares our commitment to issues involving BUSINESS MATTERS.