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Harvey, LA – The Louisiana Chamber of Commerce Foundation proudly announces the grand opening of the AgriAquaculture Center of Excellence (AACE), a groundbreaking facility made possible by a generous $2 million grant from Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr., representing Louisiana’s 2nd Congressional District. This transformative milestone will be celebrated on Friday, January 17, 2025, at 9:00 AM at 651 Leson Court, Harvey, LA.
The AACE, spanning over 10,000 square feet, will unveil Louisiana’s largest aquaponics center, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to advancing sustainable agriculture, fostering workforce development, and supporting community nourishment. The Center is a shining example of innovation and collaboration, promising economic and environmental impacts for the region.
Speakers and Honored Guests
The celebration will feature distinguished speakers and leaders in agriculture, business, and community development, including:
- Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. – Louisiana’s 2nd Congressional District
- J.T. Hannan – Director of the Office of Rural Development, Acting Regional Director-SELA, Office of Governor Jeff Landry
- Deidre Deculus Robert – USDA Rural Development Director of State Operations
- Ava Dejoie Cates – SBA Regional Administrator, Region 6
- Secretary Aurelia Giacometto – Louisiana Department of Environmental Equality
- State Representative Rodney Lyons – District 87
- Ron Guidry Jr. – Farm Services Agency
- Kathy Stuart – Southeast Region Director, Office of U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D.
- Judge Marion Edwards – Former Councilman, District 1
- Michael Hecht – CEO, GNO Inc
- Jerry Bologna – Executive Director, JEDCO
- Dr. Calvin Mackie – Founder & CEO, STEM NOLA
Local economic development organizations, business leaders, and community stakeholders will also join in celebrating this remarkable achievement.
About the AACE
The AgriAquaculture Center of Excellence is set to revolutionize Louisiana’s agricultural landscape by integrating cutting-edge aquaponics technology with workforce training and educational outreach. By advancing sustainable farming practices, the AACE aims to strengthen local food systems, create jobs, and inspire future generations of agricultural leaders.
Event Details
- Date: Friday, January 17, 2025
- Time: 9:00 AM
- Location: 651 Leson Court, Harvey, LA
- RSVP Deadline: January 13, 2025
Invitations are non-transferable. Please RSVP via email at kelisha@labizspeaks.org or call 504-812-9299.
Join us in celebrating this transformative achievement and witness the unveiling of a facility that embodies the future of sustainable agriculture in Louisiana.
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