CLEVELAND, Tenn. – Entrepreneur David Oreck of vacuum cleaner fame is scheduled to visit Cleveland on Tuesday to speak at the United Way’s campaign kickoff luncheon.
Allen Mincey, vice president of communication for United Way, said the luncheon will be held at Peerless Road Church of God of Prophecy at noon.
“A lot of folks are very excited about Mr. Oreck being in our community,” he said.
Cleveland Mayor Tom Rowland said he looks forward to meeting Oreck.
IF YOU GO* What: United Way luncheon* Where: Peerless Road Church of God of Prophecy, 3301 Peerless Road NW* When: Tuesday; food lines open at 11:15 a.m.* Information: Call 472-9876
“He’s a dynamic entrepreneur who has fulfilled the American dream with a lot of ingenuity,” Rowland said. “I do admire him.”
Oreck also is scheduled to make an hourlong appearance at his company’s Cleveland store Tuesday at 2:30 p.m.
Donna Johnson, vice president of sales and operations for Oreck in Chattanooga, said the city’s store was swamped when the founder visited three years ago.
“This is a very rare thing; it’s really a privilege,” she said. “It’s not a regular routine at this point in his life to make store visits.”
Johnson said Oreck ranks with Wendy’s Dave Thomas among celebrity founders.
“He has a fan base. I kind of laugh and think he’s up there with Betty White,” she said. “I have no doubt people will come to meet him and get their vacuums signed.”