MONTGOMERY – The first Alabama Chambers Day at the Capitol last week provided a wealth of information and one-on-one meetings with movers and shakers across the state and in Montgomery.
Athens-Limestone County Chamber President and CEO Pammie Jimmar, a member of the Alabama Chambers Board, joined the more than 125 chamber professionals, volunteer leaders, and community leaders from 40 chambers of commerce for the pivotal event that brought together key stakeholders to engage with Alabama’s legislative leaders and discuss the important issues shaping the future of the state.
“We were excited to launch the first-ever Chamber Day at the Capitol and bring our state’s chambers of commerce together in one place,” said Alabama Chambers Board Chair Anna Hovey, president and CEO of the Auburn Chamber of Commerce. “This event provided an invaluable opportunity for collaboration between chamber leaders and our legislative body to advocate for policies that support economic growth, job creation, and the overall prosperity of Alabama.
“Our chambers of commerce across Alabama tirelessly work for the betterment of the communities they serve and for our state as a whole. It was an honor to bring that message and reminder to Montgomery.”
Chamber Day at the Capitol featured addresses from lawmakers, including Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth, Senate Pro Tem Garlan Gudger, and Speaker of the House Nathanial Ledbetter.
Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama President & CEO Kyle South, a former legislator, led an enlightening discussion with House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels of Huntsville and state Sen. Josh Carnley. Attendees then adjourned to visit the State House for an opportunity to interact directly with lawmakers and gain a better understanding of the policy decisions that impact local businesses and communities. The day ended with an opportunity to hear from Gov. Kay Ivey at the Capitol.
“Our association represents the 100 chambers of commerce across Alabama covering almost every part of the state which are led by over 1,600 staff and volunteer leaders representing over 40,000 businesses and organizations,” said Paige Hutto, president and CEO of Alabama Chambers. “We were proud to bring some of them together for this exciting day.
“This was a chance for us to ensure our collective voices are heard in Montgomery, and our elected officials continue to hear from their local chambers of commerce on the important issues facing our communities and the state.”
Since its beginning in 1937 as the Alabama Association of Commercial Organizations, what is now known as the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama (Alabama Chambers) has remained dedicated to its mission of building stronger chambers across the state while advocating that chambers of commerce are the premier local business advocates in Alabama.
Through the Partnership with the Business Council of Alabama, a nonpartisan organization, the two organizations represent the interests and concerns of over 1 million working Alabamians.
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