CELINA-The renovation of the Clay County Chamber of Commerce facility here, which began in August of last year, has been completed, according to a recent release from the chamber.

The building was originally constructed in the 1940’s as a Chrysler Plymouth sales and service dealership.  Through the years, the building has been home for a John Deere dealership, and several departments and area offices:  Clay Gas Utility, Clay Highway Department, Clay County Sanitation, and finally our Chamber of Commerce.

The Clay County Maintenance Department occupies approximately 70% of the building directly behind the chamber.

“We now have a facility that will provide out of town, state and country visitors a quality first impression of Clay County,” chamber executive director Ray Norris said.  “We meet many tourists and business people from all over the country looking for brochures, maps and information about this area.

“The Chamber conference room is also used for countless meetings throughout the year for the Economic and Community Development Board, Industrial Development Board, Three Star Committees, Leadership Clay, Clay County Grand Jury, Clay Gas Utility District Board, and meetings with the various state and federal agencies that provide assistance to Clay County and local business owners.”

CHAMBER-WARMING GIFTS-Representative Kelly Keisling (left) and Senator Mae Beavers (right) recently toured the updated chamber and donated a United States flag and a Tennessee state flag to director Ray Norris (center) for the new conference room. (photo submitted)

Senator Mae Beavers and Representative Kelly Keisling recently toured the updated chamber and donated a United States flag and a Tennessee state flag for the new conference room.

Both flags had been ceremoniously flown over the state capital.

“We sincerely appreciate Senator Beavers and Representative Keisling for taking the time and effort to provide these flags for Clay County,” Norris said.  “We look forward to their continued and valuable participation in future Clay County opportunities as they develop.”

Norris said an open house will be scheduled for the new Chamber facility in late February or March, depending on the weather.