The Chamber also honored two companies for their civic engagement and corporate responsibility: Gas South and Patillo Construction.

The Sirius Star Awards represents the brightest star after the sun and Gannon and the two companies were recognized for their illuminating presence for the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce and DeKalb County.

Gannon has been involved in promoting sustainability initiatives for the county. She created the Green Commission to help the citizens and employees of DeKalb become aware of ways to conserve, recycle, and incorporate sustainable choices into their everyday life. The Green Commission initiated the application for DeKalb County’s certification as a “Green Community” by the Atlanta Regional Commission and sponsors quarterly workshops and forums.

At the banquet, Raheev Dhawan, professor and director of the Economic Forecasting Center at Georgia State University’s Robinson College of Business, served as the keynote speake. His recent research has focused on the effects of rising oil prices on the national economy.

Chamber President Leonardo McClarty said despite the economic downturn locally and nationally, he was pleased with the Chamber’s progress last year. Some 200 businesses joined the organization last year. He said the Chamber has set a goal of 500 new members for 2010.

McClarty thanked Charles Yorke, the out-going chairman of the Chamber’s board of directors, for his work and dedication.

“I’ve enjoyed my tenure as chairman of the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce. The position has allowed me to meet a lot of good people in the county,” said Yorke, who is president of Cornerstone Bank in downtown Decatur. “…The DeKalb Chamber continues to elevate its stature

in the county by becoming more involved with issues affecting the business community both under the Gold Dome and at the county level.”

Yorke welcomed the new chairman, Darryl Ford, of Stone Mountain Chrysler Jeep Dodge. Ford pledged to continue building the Chamber under his leadership.

“In 2010, we intend on being even stronger,” said Ford, adding that his focus would be on bringing the community, business and government together to stimulate the local economy.

“If you’re a member and in need of information or leads to draw traffic into your organization, come into the Chamber,” said Ford. “If you’re a larger organization perhaps you might find ways to mentor and share non-proprietary skills.”

The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce can be reached at 404-378-8000 or by visiting www.dekalbchamber.org.