The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Lee County Chamber of Commerce, the Sylvester-Worth County Chamber of Commerce and the Terrell County Chamber of Commerce, will host the inaugural “Hush Puppies & Politics” regional fish fry on September 11 to foster meaningful connections between the business community and elected officials. Tyler Harper, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Agriculture, is the event’s featured guest.

The unique program, presented by the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission and Albany’s Georgia Pacific Corrugated, emphasizes the importance of regionalism and collaboration, building bridges and alliances between neighboring communities, their businesses and their elected officials. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with policymakers, share insights and demonstrate their commitment to fostering economic development and a business-friendly environment.

“ ‘Hush Puppies & Politics’ underscores the importance of building strong relationships between our business community and elected officials, which are crucial for informed policymaking, effective advocacy and fostering economic growth and stability,” said Bárbara Rivera Holmes, president & CEO of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce. “By partnering with our neighboring chambers, we can foster a collaborative environment that drives regional prosperity and that amplifies the Albany Area’s influence.”

Elected officials from throughout the Albany Area have been invited. Harper, the program’s honored guest, is Georgia’s 17th commissioner of agriculture. The Ocilla native and resident is a seventh-generation farmer and small business owner. As commissioner of the Georgia Department of Agriculture, which this year celebrates its 175th anniversary, Harper oversees animals, food, fuel, plants, soil and pesticides, which are crucial for agriculture, the state’s No. 1 industry.

The Georgia Department of Agriculture’s Georgia Grown initiative supports and promotes local
agribusinesses by connecting producers, processors, suppliers, distributors, retailers, and consumers within a powerful statewide community. The marketing and economic development program’s recognizable seal encourages consumers to choose local products, enhancing the visibility and marketability of Georgia’s agricultural goods.

Guests of casual event will enjoy a South Georgia fish fry, local beverages and music from local favorite Evan Barber.

Tickets, table purchases and sponsorships are available, offering exclusive benefits, prime seating and the opportunity for businesses to showcase themselves to key leaders. Individual tickets and tables may be purchased at bit.ly/HushPuppiesandPolitics. For more information about sponsorships, contact Mary Bickerstaff at [email protected] or (229) 434-8700.