There's a country song whose lyrics include Chug-a-lug-a-luggin' five miles an hour on my International Harvester.  I imagine that there are few people reading this article that don't understand what this song is referencing.

Since our local farmers impacted our economy with $167 million in gross crop revenues during 2008 it's easy to understand and appreciate why you may be held up in traffic on a country road in Decatur County. 

That revenue not only supports the farmers and their families but contributes to the profitability of our agribusinesses, professionals, banks, retailers, service providers, and many other organizations both directly and indirectly.  Simply put, our community could not afford to do without our agricultural industry. 
 
Every year your Chamber of Commerce recognizes the achievements of our farmers and their impact on our community by hosting its Ag Appreciation Luncheon.  The Chamber's Agriculture committee, with the help of our sponsors, will host the 9th annual luncheon on Friday, November 20, 2009, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Cloud Livestock Facility located adjacent to the fairgrounds.
 
Our guest speaker will be Dr. Jeffery Dorfman, Professor of Agricultural & Applied Economics at the University of Georgia.  He will discuss the impact of stimulus money on agribusinesses and the changes technology has made in agriculture. 
  
In addition to recognizing our farmers and the 2009 Ag Man and Ag Woman of the year we will serve our traditional seafood buffet.  Please refer to your invitation for additional details.  We look forward to seeing you there.