The move to a central location for the Jones County/Gray Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Gray, Gray Downtown Development Authority, Development Authority of Jones County and Keep Jones Beautiful has been a long-time goal and has shown to be an asset to all five organizations.
The move to Jones County/Gray Business Development Office at 102 East Clinton took place in July, and it was DDA members who first utilized the new space for their monthly meeting. The move also physically put together a team working on the economic development of the community. The number to call to speak with a team member is 478-986-1123.
The newest members of that team are Chloe Crutchfield, president of the Jones County/Gray Chamber of Commerce, and Mallory Lunsford, community relations administrative assistant and director of Keep Jones Beautiful.
Main Street Director Ashley Robertson has been in her position since March of 2022. Main Street and the Chamber have co-sponsored events, and in the absence of a full-time leader for the Chamber, Roberson worked with the Executive Director of the Development Authority of Jones County Haley Watson to keep events on track.
Having all the entities in one space makes it easier for the organizations to work together and makes it easier for anyone needing their services.
This year’s big events have included a Women in Business Luncheon, the Young Entrepreneurs Contest, the Independence Day Extravaganza, the State of the Community and a training event held here by the Georgia Academy of Economic Development.
All those are in addition to networking nights, pop-up events, Main Street’s Second Saturdays Downtown, Fridays on Main, March on Main, the Hometown Spring Festival and multiple new business ribbon cuttings.
Chloe Crutchfield
Crutchfield has been in the position of chamber president since May. She is originally from Dublin and now lives here with her husband, Chase, who is a Jones County native. Chloe grew up in a family of five and feels that helped her learn the value of hard work, collaboration and supporting those around her.
She said those principles continue to guide her.
Chloeis a graduate of Georgia College & State University, where she earned her degree in marketing. The president said her vision for the Chamber includes expanding member engagement, supporting small businesses and launching creative initiatives that strengthen connections between residents, organizations and leaders.
“A thriving community is built on collaboration and shared success, and I’m dedicated to ensuring the Chamber plays a central role in making that vision a reality,” she said.
Mallory Lunsford
Lunsford has been in her roles since March. She grew up in Jones County and graduated from Jones County High School.
“I’m a proud single mom to three amazing boys,” she said. “Some of my favorite moments are spent with my kids, whether we’re cheering at their sports games, riding the four-wheeler, fishing, or simply enjoying time together at home.”
Mallory said also she loves to read and sing in her church’s praise band.
“Being a mom has been the greatest joy of my life. After 14 wonderful years as a stay-at-home mom, I returned to the workforce in March,” she said.
She said she was drawn to the community relations administrative assistant position because she wanted to be more involved in the community.
“Having volunteered at our Spring and Christmas festivals, I knew this role would be a perfect fit,” she said. “I’m excited for the opportunity to give back and help make Jones County an even better place to live, work and raise a family.”
