Pride for country and community was evident from Cleveland Mayor Tom Rowland Tuesday as he shared stories and highlights of the past few months with the Rotary Club of Cleveland.

Rowland reminded the club of the many good things that are happening in Cleveland and Bradley County.

He started by reminding Rotarians about the investment Wacker is making in the community.

“They are investing $1.8 billion ... and that’s the largest private investment in the United States right now of any investment,” Rowland said.

Rowland said investors come to Cleveland and Bradley County because the local work ethic is exemplary.

He said Olin, Whirlpool, Duracell, Brown Stove Works and Hardwick Clothing are also among the many success stories in Cleveland and Bradley County.

Among other items, the mayor cited “Recent announcements by Duracell Procter and Gamble that all of the C cell and D cell batteries that Duracell makes are being made here in Cleveland.”

He said Hardwick is one of the only clothing manufacturers that makes all parts of its clothing in the United States.

During his speech, Rowland also addressed the traffic challenges the area is working to overcome. One is at Interstate 75 Exit 20, where tractor-trailer traffic has increased. The mayor said the Tennessee Department of Transportation will be funding a new interchange at this location.

Work will begin Monday to add another lane, but the major work will begin this fall, Rowland said. He said this work will include replacing the bridge.

The mayor also expressed pride in the restoration of the historic train depot on Inman Street, the official dedication of Billy Graham Avenue and the city’s plans to adopt Phnom Penh, Cambodia, as a sister city. As part of adopting the city, leaders from Cambodia will be visiting Cleveland in August.

Rowland is the longest-serving mayor in Cleveland history and is serving his fifth term.