The Albany Area Chamber Foundation presented a check for $25,000 to Albany State University in support of the Rams in the Roses campaign, a fundraising effort for the ASU Marching Band's participation in the 127th annual Tournament of the Roses Parade.

"Albany State University is an incredible educational asset to Albany and Southwest Georgia, and its marching band has long been an example of excellence among its peers," said Jim Deal, chair of the Albany Area Chamber Foundation. "The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce and the Albany Area Chamber Foundation are proud to support the ASU Marching Band and its scholar musicians as they represent the university, Albany and the Southeast on a world stage during the Rose Parade."

The ASU Marching Band is one of four bands invited to participate in the Pasadena, Calif.-parade - and the only band to represent the Southeastern United States - which is a prelude to the college football playoff semifinal game and part of "America's New Year Celebration." The parade will be seen New Year's Day by more than 80 million viewers in more than 200 countries.

"The gift from the Albany Chamber of Commerce and its foundation is extraordinary," said Albany State University Interim President Art Dunning. "It speaks to the strong partnership that exists between ASU and the business community. 

"On behalf of Albany State and the ASU Marching Band, I deeply appreciate the support of this group of talented student performers who will represent not only our university, but, also our city and state in one of the oldest and most watched parades," Dunning said. "When our band marches down that Pasadena Street on New Year's Day, they will take a big piece of the Albany Area Chamber and its members with them."

The chamber foundation's contribution will help offset the $250,000 needed for travel, accommodations and ground transportation for the 150-member band. 

The Albany Area Chamber Foundation supports education and workforce development initiatives in the Albany area and provides Southwest Georgia with cultural experiences that would otherwise be unavailable through current and conventional funding sources. To achieve this purpose, the Foundation seeks to collaborate with and to leverage the work of existing qualified nonprofit organizations and groups.