The Ocilla-Irwin County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors welcomed Greg Millette as guest speaker for its May 12 meeting. Millette is the executive director of United Way of South Central Georgia.

“We are proud to be one of the newer members of the Ocilla-Irwin Chamber,” said Millette, “And I appreciate the opportunity to share our new vision and direction with the board of directors.”

Millette, who was hired by United Way six months ago, first acknowledged that United Way has failed to provide more than minimal support to Irwin County in recent years. In fact, he said, United Way has failed to provide much support to Ben Hill, Cook and Turner counties as well, focusing almost exclusively on Tift County.

He stated that United Way is eager to start a new chapter by building partnerships with local agencies, learning from these agencies how United Way can best support their ongoing efforts. United Way will also stand ready to help individuals and agencies develop new initiatives designed to fill any present gaps in services.

The Ocilla-Irwin Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of Gina’s Salon on Friday, April 29.

The new Ocilla business, located at 111 South Beech Street, is owned and operated by Gina Collins and offers a complete array of cosmetology services including color, cuts, stylings, updos for special events, acrylic and gel nails, manicures, pedicures and waxing. “We can do it all,” Collins said, “anyting to do with skin, hair and nails.”