The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce’s W.G. Mealor Chairman¹s Award is presented annually to an individual who has served their community and Chamber with exceptional leadership and volunteerism. The award is bestowed to one who exemplifies high ethics and morals, is a person of vision and a leader in our community. These are the traits possessed by Mr. Mealor who served as the first Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce from 1908 to 1917 and was also Mayor of Gainesville. He was known as a ³power house² ¬ a person with good sense and an ability to get things done.
It is keeping with these high standards the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce presented the prestigious W. G. Mealor Award to a most deserving individual ¬ Dick Valentine, President of Regions Bank Gainesville.
“Dick is always doing more than the job calls for, always doing things in a very professional and customer-friendly way, always participating and contributing to whatever organization or event,” said Chamber Chairman Benny Bagwell who presented Valentine with the award at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting and Gala in May.
Dick Valentine has served the Chamber in many ways, including: Treasurer for two years; Member and Chair of the Economic Development Council; Member of the Gainesville & Hall County Industrial Development Authority; Chairman of the Building/Finance Committee for the Chamber¹s new building; Chairman of the Board of Directors ¬ 2002-2003; Senior Advisor to the Executive Committee ¬ 2003-2004; Treasurer and Finance Chair of the 2004 Northeast Georgia Red Carpet Tour.