By Michael Butler

Jerry Cunningham is back at the helm as executive director of the Tallassee Chamber of Commerce. Cunningham served in the position for eight years before retiring in May of last year.

“I’m glad to be back,” Cunningham said. “It’s an interim basis. We’ll evaluate maybe at the end of the year.”

Cunningham will follow his replacement Carmen Rodgers, who recently stepped away from the position.

“I’m excited about getting back in there. I still have the energy and the want to.”

Cunningham is passing the baton as director of McCraney-Cottle Arts Council to Michaela Bird, which frees up more time for the Chamber.

“We’re transitioning over to Michaela,” he noted. “I’m very much involved in trying to help her.”

Tallassee Chamber of Commerce president Dustin Funderburk spoke of the working relationship with Cunningham.

“It’s fun doing it with Jerry,” he said. “I’m excited about what we’re doing. I appreciate the Chamber. I want to see Tallassee be an even greater place.”