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The Andalusia Area Chamber of Commerce has announced Dwayne “Swoop” Simpson as the entertainer for this year’s Chamber banquet scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 9 at the Kiwanis Community Center.

“Simpson brings us basketball zany humor, crazy antics, and exuberant high jinks. We are proud to have him as our entertainer for our annual banquet and awards ceremony,” Executive Director Laura Wells said.

Simpson was given his nickname from his high-school coach for his ability to soar and dunk the ball from long distances. Hailing from New Brunswick, New Jersey, Swoop went on to star at Southern Connecticut State University, where he was a part of the 1997 New England Conference Championship that made it all the way to the Elite Eight of the Division II National Tournament. As a Computer Science major, Dwayne worked as a Technical Support Specialist and as an Intern at ESPN before making his debut with the Harlem Rockets in 2000. In 2003, Swoop moved on and does what many basketball showmen dream of; play for the Harlem Globetrotters. In 2007, Swoop joined the Harlem Wizards and has been a major force in the Wizards’ growth.

Long term, he hopes to inspire children in the same way he does as a Wizards player by getting his teacher’s license and becoming a teacher, coach, and mentor.

This year’s banquet theme is “Champions in Business” with an ESPY-type awards night. Individual tickets are $50 for Chamber members and $75 for general admission.

Doors will open at 5 p.m. with dinner to be served at 7 p.m. followed by the awards presentation ceremony. Simpson will then close the evening with entertainment.

To reserve tickets email laura@andalusiachamber.com or call 334-222-2030.