Abe Marshall, right, the outgoing chairman of the Lumberton Area Chamber of Commerce, presents the gavel to the new chairman, Danny Cook. Cindy Kern, the chamber's executive director, watches the exchange.

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LUMBERTON — A new chairman took hold of the gavel recently when the Lumberton Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual Chairman’s Gala at Pinecrest Country Club.

“The event was great and I am looking forward to an exceptional year,” said Danny Cook, the owner of Cook Insurance Services who replaces Abe Marshall as chairman.

The event, which was held Jan. 25, is a celebration of the past year and also when the chamber recognizes retiring board members, newly elected board members and volunteers. It is also a time to meet other chamber members in a relaxed atmosphere.

“The event was successful,” said Cindy S. Kern, executive director.

Charles Chrestman, the retiring president of Robeson Community College, was recognized and presented the The Distinguished Service Award for his contributions to economic development and support of the chamber and its activities.

Retiring board members are: Jay Britt, Lumbee Guaranty Bank; Teresa Oxendine; Frankie Lindsay, Frankie Lindsay CPA’s; Bebe Wright, Comfort Inn and Country Inn & Suites; Tamera Kemp-Collins, Kemp & Patterson CPA’s; Craig Lovette, First Bank; and Bob Fisher.

Newly elected members of the board of directors are: Mark Morse, Chick-Fil-A; Brad Martin, Re/Max Real Estate Exchange; Susan Walker, Candy Sue’s Downtown; Steve Runkle, Pier 41; Tom Marks, Golden Corral; and Allison Harrington, Speech Solutions Inc.

Committee chairs for 2013 are: Membership/Ambassador, Suzanne Abbott; Special Events, Ann McLean; Golf Tournament, Mickey Gregory; Leadership, Merle Summers; Education, Angela Sumner; Travel/Tourism, Mickey Gregory; Community Development, Connie Russ.

The Chamber Ambassadors were also recognized for their support. Those in attendance were Sara Collins, BB&T; Tamera Kemp-Collins, Kemp & Patterson CPA’s; Becky Morrow, Department of Social Services; Gwen Price, BB&T; Faye Spaulding, Comfort Inn; Bebe Wright, Comfort Inn and Country Inn & Suites; Chelsea Biggs, Biggs Park Mall; Doris McLean, Special Moments Florist; Suzanne Abbott, Aflac; Debbie Branyon, BB&T; Mickey Gregory, Lumberton Visitor’s Bureau; and Connie Russ, city of Lumberton.

Guests were entertained by Carolina Breakers.