Lights. Camera. Action! Sponsorship opportunities for the Chamber’s 122nd Annual Meeting, the premier celebration of Athens’ business community, are open for just a few more days. From exclusive title recognition to red carpet moments and on-stage awards, there’s a sponsorship level for every business ready to be in the spotlight.

David met local leaders at the Georgia State Capitol last week for the 2026 Hub Day at the Capitol event, welcoming leaders from Georgia’s fastest-growing communities serving as economic, workforce, and industry anchors beyond Metro Atlanta. While at the Capitol, participants had the opportunity to engage with state leaders on policy decisions impacting Georgia’s regional communities. The 2026 Hub Chamber Legislative Priorities emphasize economic growth, workforce development, housing opportunity, infrastructure, and more. To learn more about the Hub Chamber Council, visit gachamber.com/hub-council.

Meet Our 2026 Ambassadors!

The Chamber’s Ambassador Committee, fondly known as the A-Team, serves as the organization's public relations team and is highly visible throughout the Chamber and the community. The Ambassadors are responsible for engaging, encouraging, nurturing, and expanding relationships on behalf of the Chamber. This year, our largest ever Ambassador group is led by long-time volunteers, David Chance of ServPro and Phillip Bruce of Visit Athens.

David Chance, ServPro of Athens

Phillip Bruce, Visit Athens

Chamber Staff in the Community

The Athens Area Chamber Staff's community involvement doesn't stop when they leave the office. This year, we're excited to share with our members the other areas of service where our staff spend their time.

President and CEO, David, serves on the Board of Directors for the Athens Area Community Foundation, which works to grow giving by inspiring generous communities and creating lasting impact. Join us at the 122nd Annual Meeting, where AACF will award the Nonprofit of the Year!

Regional Friday Legislative Call

Location: Virtual

Date: 2/13/2026

Time: 8:30 am - 9:00 am

Each Friday during legislative session, tune in for a virtual call with a member of our elected delegation to the Georgia General Assembly. This is an opportunity to hear about important issues and the expected outcome of the General Assembly. Calls will begin with a conversation led by our co-host followed by audience questions. On February 13th we will welcome Senator Bill Cowsert.

Classic Swing Golf Lounge Ribbon Cutting

Please join the Athens Area and Oconee Chambers of Commerce as we celebrate the ribbon cutting for Classic Swing Golf Lounge. Classic Swing Golf Lounge is a premium indoor golf simulator lounge and private event venue. Spanning 2,600 sq. ft., the facility offers a cutting-edge and inclusive golf experience, tailored to enthusiasts, families, youth, and corporate clients alike.

Location: 8a School St. Watkinsville

Date: 2/19/2026

Time: 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Pancakes & Policy with Governor Brian P. Kemp

Join us for a Pancakes & Policy breakfast as we welcome Georgia Governor Brian Kemp to speak to Athens area constituents and members of the business community. 

Location: UGA Tate Student Center, 45 Baxter St.

Date: 3/9/2026

Time: 8:00 am - 9:30 am

Network Lunch

Sponsored by:

Join us for the February Network Luncheon! Network Lunch is where you maximize your relationship ROI. During this event, you'll hear from a featured speaker and our sponsors, who will give a brief presentation. Afterward, each attendee will have the time to introduce themselves with a quick elevator pitch. 

Location: Athens Christian School, 1270 Hwy 29 N

Date: 3/10/2026

Time: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

Heretical Gaming

The Painted Heretic is a community-focused gateway into the immersive worlds of Warhammer, DnD, and TCGs. We strive to build a safe environment that will nurture interest in fantastical escapism and allow social collaboration in the name of fun and inclusivity, where all beings from all corners of the universe are welcome.

Coming Spring 2026 to Athens, GA!

The Commercial Bank

The Commercial Bank was founded in 1924 by local businessmen in Oglethorpe County with the mission of serving the financial needs of the citizens and businesses of the area. Much has changed since 1924, but The Commercial Bank’s commitment to the communities that we serve remains the same. As one of the few remaining locally owned and operated community banks in the Athens area, The Commercial Bank has the unique ability to customize common sense solutions for each of our customers.

Athens Area Women in Construction

Athens Area Women in Construction is a a non-profit corporation aimed at teaching and inspiring. Supporting women with construction industry interest in the Athens, GA area. Look for them around town at fundraising events like the Tinsel Trail, AAWIC Golf Tournament and Clay Shoot, and more!

Advance Auto Parts

From regular maintenance to complex DIY projects, AdvanceAutoParts.com and our mobile app are your best resource for savings and selection. Keep an eye out for the ribbon cutting for Athens' newest Advance Auto Parts location, coming soon!

10% Savings on Professional Concrete Services for 
Chamber Members

• Chamber-exclusive pricing on qualifying concrete projects
• Free, no-obligation on-site estimates
• Residential & light commercial concrete services
• Driveways, patios, sidewalks, slabs, pads, and more
• Consistent communication and clear project timelines
• Fully insured work performed to local standard

We take pride in doing the job right the first time - from proper site prep to professional finishing - so your concrete looks great and lasts for years.

Call today at 706-890-0120!

To access this and other Chamber exclusive member deals, or to add your company's Chamber member discounts, log in to your Member Portal here. For assistance creating a new employee login, email marissa@athens.com.

Downtown Athens Buzzes with Events Next Week at Akins Ford Arena and The Classic Center

 Downtown Athens will come alive next week with an exciting lineup of events at Akins Ford Arena and The Classic Center. From Galentine’s celebrations and family-friendly outings to standout date-night experiences, the week ahead offers something for residents and visitors of all ages.

GOV'T MULE Announces 11 Headlining Spring Tour Dates For April 14th – 28th With Larkin Poe and Maggie Rose on Select Dates

 Acclaimed GRAMMY-nominated band Gov’t Mule, led by guitar legend, vocalist, songwriter and producer Warren Haynes, has announced 11 spring headlining tour dates for April. The new dates begin April 14 and include a stop at The Classic Center Theatre in Athens, Georga on April 19

Ever wondered what happens behind the badge? The Athens-Clarke County Police Department invites you to apply for the 51st Community Police Academy (CPA) — an engaging, behind-the-scenes look at your police department. This is not just a lecture series, it's a hands on, immersive experience designed to provide transparency and build understanding. Learn more and register for this free program here!

The Food Bank of Northeast Georgia invites you to share a meal that matters! The 2026 Empty Bowl Fundraiser and Luncheon is on February 12^th at the Classic Center from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. Tickets and tables are available at www.foodbanknega.org/emptybowl! Join us for lunch and engage with fellow community members on the path toward our vision of Every Neighbor. With Enough Food. Every Day!

Strike out diaper need! Join Athens Area Diaper Bank for our 3rd annual Bowling for Bottoms on February 19, 2026.

Every frame helps fill the diaper gap for local families — because every baby deserves to be clean, dry, and healthy!

Join the Athens Tech Foundation for the Illuminate Gala 2026, a benefit dinner and silent auction to “Light Up the Night for Students!” Enjoy an evening of community and celebration as we support Athens Technical College students and the programs that strengthen our local workforce.