For Immediate Release

May 8, 2025

CONTACT: Georgia Cotton Commission
Taylor Sills, [email protected]

Georgia Cotton Commission Mid-Year Meeting July 23, 2025

The Georgia Cotton Commission is pleased to announce the guest speakers at the Commission’s 2024 Mid-Year Meeting scheduled for Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at the Nesmith-Lane Conference Center in Statesboro. The inaugural Mid-Year Meeting is held in conjunction with a UGA Cotton Pre-Harvest Workshop conducted by members of the UGA Research & Extension Cotton Team.  The UGA Cotton Pre-Harvest Workshop will feature sessions where attendees will receive a 2025 crop update and defoliation considerations along with discussions regarding late season irrigation and pest management strategies.

The program speakers are Akiko Inui, Board Chair of The Cotton Board, and Tas Smith, Vice President of Producer Affairs for the National Cotton Council.

• Akiko Inui serves as the Chair of The Cotton Board, which administers the Cotton Research & Promotion Program.  She has served as an Importer Member of the Cotton Board since 2016 and has been on the Executive Committee since 2020.  Ms. Inui is the Transparency & Traceability Program Advisory Consultant for Ralph Lauren and has previously held positions with PVH Corporation, Dow Chemical Company, and Itochu Corporation.  She holds degrees from Kwansei Gakuin University and Boston University and serves as an adjunct professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology.
• Tas Smith has been with the National Cotton Council since 2019 and currently serves as the Vice President of Producer Affairs.  In this role, he works with the American Cotton Producers and the NCC’s grower members to implement policies that enhance the viability and long-term viability of the producer segment of the industry.  Before coming to NCC, Smith served as the State Executive Director of USDA’s Farm Service Agency in Georgia and in roles at Georgia Farm Bureau.  Tas is a native of Butler, Georgia and is a graduate of Valdosta State University.

During the lunch program the Georgia Quality Cotton Awards for the 2025 crop will be presented.  There is no charge to attend. Pre-registration is requested to help with meal plans.  Register online at www.georgiacottoncommission.org.

 

Thank you to our sponsors:
Stoneville/BASF – Deltapine/Bayer Crop Science – Farm Credit Associations of Georgia
John Deere – Phytogen/Corteva Agriscience – Tama USA
Ag Insurance Advisors – Ag Technologies – Agriliance Insurance Group – Agri Supply
Agro Liquid – American National – Americot, Inc.-NexGen – Armor Cotton
Carden & Associates – Cargill Cotton – CNI – DeltAg Formulations – Georgia Farm Bureau
GreenPoint Ag – Helena Agri-Enterprises – Langston Companies – Magnolia Loom
Silveus Southeast – Smith Farm Supply – South Georgia Banking Company – Southeast AgNet
Staplcotn – Syngenta – Synovus – Tidewater Equipment/CASE-IH
Triangle Chemical Company – Triangle Insurance – Valent USA – Valley Irrigation

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For Immediate Release

May 6, 2025

CONTACT: National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Dawn Brosnan, 912-988-1847, [email protected]

Volunteers needed for ‘Flags for the Fallen’ at National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force

Chatham County, GA – The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is calling on our community to take part in a powerful act of remembrance. We are proud to announce the fifth annual Flags for the Fallen, a moving tribute honoring the 26,000 Eighth Air Force airmen who gave their lives during World War II.

This year’s event, Flags for the Fallen: 26,000 Flags | One Mission, will begin on Friday, May 23 at 10:30 am, when the museum’s Memorial Garden will be transformed into a sea of 26,000 48-star American flags—each representing a fallen hero. The display will remain open to visitors through Monday, May 26th, offering a powerful space for reflection and remembrance.

Volunteers are needed to help place the flags on Wednesday, May 21, ahead of the public opening. It takes many hands to ensure each flag is respectfully placed, and we invite individuals, families, school groups, veterans, civic organizations, and businesses to take part in this meaningful mission.

“This event is only possible because of the incredible support from our community,” says Dawn Brosnan, Director of Communications and Marketing. “Volunteering for Flags for the Fallen is a profound way to honor those who never came home. Every flag you place is a name remembered, a story honored, a sacrifice acknowledged.”

Whether you can give an hour or the whole morning, your time will make a lasting impact. Come be a part of something truly special—help us ensure these airmen are never forgotten.

Volunteer Registration: https://forms.gle/u7S4o9EH7EAVoChL9
Flag Placement Day: Wednesday, May 21^st , 2025 (Thursday, May 22^nd – rain delay day)
More Info: www.mightyeighth.org

About the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force:

The Museum educates visitors about the character, courage, valor, and patriotism of the brave individuals who fought in the Eighth Air Force, the largest air armada in history. The Museum uses films, exhibits, artifacts, and archival materials to tell the stories of individuals who served in the Eighth Air Force. Their sacrifices made victory in World War II possible.

Museum highlights include a fully restored B-17 “Flying Fortress” and the multimedia “Mission Experience,” an immersive simulated bombing mission in a special theater utilizing actual combat footage.

The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is located at 175 Bourne Avenue, Pooler, GA. Operating hours are Tue-Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun, Noon – 5 pm. For more information, call (912) 748-8888 or www.mightyeighth.org.

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For Immediate Release

May 2, 2025

CONTACT: Southern Renewable Energy Association
Jamie Moody, [email protected]

SREA testimony in Georgia Power IRP recommends expanding utility-scale renewables RFP to procure additional GW of resources by 2032

ATLANTA (May 2, 2025) – Direct testimony on behalf of the Southern Renewable Energy Association (SREA) in the Georgia Power Company (GPC) 2025 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) recommends that the company expand their 2026 utility-scale renewables Request for Proposals (RFP) to procedure 2 GW of renewable energy resources by 2032, and to issue an additional RFP in 2026 for 2 GW of storage resources by 2032.

The testimony includes the following recommendations:

● Require GPC to expand their 2026 utility-scale renewables RFP to procure 2 GW of renewable energy resources by 2032 ○ The average builds of all modeled scenarios result in greater than 3 GW of solar capacity in GPC by 2032

● Require GPC to issue an additional RFP in 2026 for 2 GW of storage resources by 2032 ○ The average builds of all modeled scenarios result in greater than 3 GW of 4-hr battery storage capacity in GPC by 2032

● Require GPC to demonstrate how its long-term capacity expansion modeling informs the timing, magnitude and composition of its resource planning and procurement efforts ○ Present annual build plans resulting from their modeling, compare their relative performance, and discuss how modeled results are considered in resource procurement efforts

● Direct GPC to support a Transmission Working Group to conduct multi- scenario, multi-benefit, long-term (minimum 20 years) transmission planning in an open stakeholder process ○ The development of a multi-value benefits criterion that evaluates projects’ capacity and dispatch cost savings in addition to existing reliability considerations

○ Scenario based modeling captures extreme weather risks and potential benefits

○ A structure through which stakeholders can meaningfully participate in the planning process such as a transmission advisory group

Testimony was submitted by Alejandro Palomino, a Senior Consultant at Energy Strategies, an independent energy consulting firm. He was retained by SREA to evaluate Georgia Power’s 2025 IRP modeling methods, best practices, and transmission plans. Palomino independently developed and conducted alternative capacity expansion modeling to thoroughly assess the accuracy of Georgia Power’s models and the prudence of its resource procurement plans outlined in the IRP.

SREA Executive Director Simon Mahan commended Georgia Power’s ongoing efforts to modernize and expand its transmission infrastructure to meet the state’s fast-growing energy demands.

“Georgia’s growing economy demands more power—and soon,” Mahan said. “Utility-scale renewable energy resources like solar and storage are ready to deliver reliable, affordable energy to help meet that need, while supporting continued economic development across the state.”

Palomino’s testimony also highlights opportunities to improve Georgia Power’s planning processes. He advocates for adopting multi-scenario, multi-benefit long-term transmission planning that involves stakeholders and considers extreme weather risks. He notes that Winter Storm Elliott exposed vulnerabilities in the Southeastern region.

While Georgia Power avoided outages during Elliott, its gas fleet experienced significant forced outages, and solar resources performed well during the winter event. This underscores the importance of investing in additional storage and transmission expansion, which can firm solar capacity and provide access to low-cost, uncorrelated resources from other regions—both critical components for resilience.

Enhanced regional and interregional transmission investments are vital to supporting load growth, reducing costs, and increasing system resilience. A recent study by the Brattle Group affirms that Southeast utilities must invest in regional transmission to improve reliability and lower system costs.

However, the current planning process, particularly within the Southeastern Regional Transmission Planning (SERTP) process, is insufficient to meet future needs. Longer-term planning horizons—at least 20 years—are necessary to anticipate future demands, evaluate economic and reliability benefits, and align investments with the operational life of assets. Palomino notes that, “Since its founding in 2014, SERTP has never identified a regional transmission project that is more efficient or more cost-effective to address transmission needs than those proposed in local transmission plans. Over the same time, SERTP has not carried out any public policy studies.”

Palomino points to the Carolinas Transmission Planning Collaborative as an example of effective regional planning. Its mult-value, stakeholder-inclusive approach considers future scenarios, balances costs and benefits, and addresses challenges proactively. The 2023 plan estimates $2.44 billion in investments across 58 reliability-driven projects and 15 public policy initiatives, demonstrating the potential for comprehensive, balanced regional planning.

Mahan said SREA urges Georgia Power and regulators to embrace best practices in transmission planning—holistic, transparent, and stakeholder-engaged. “SREA looks forward to continuing to work with the Georgia Public Service Commission and Georgia Power to maximize the development of our local, clean energy resources,” he said. “By investing strategically in regional and interregional infrastructure, Georgia can ensure a resilient, reliable energy future that supports continued economic growth.”

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For Immediate Release

May 1, 2025

CONTACT: UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Jordan Powers, 706-542-4274, [email protected]

University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences shares 2025 State of Solutions

Each year, the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) takes great pride in the accomplishments we achieve across all three of our mission areas. 2024 was no exception.

We are thrilled to share the 2025 State of Solutions, a comprehensive impact summary highlighting our latest efforts in teaching, research and University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, along with key metrics from the previous year. Whether you read through for story ideas or data points, we hope you enjoy this new resource.

Please reach out to Jordan Powers at [email protected] if you have any questions or would like to set up interviews with CAES experts featured in the stories within the report (or beyond).

Visit the 2025 State of Solutions at discover.caes.uga.edu/state-of-solutions.

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For Immediate Release

April 28, 2025

CONTACT: Georgia Cotton Commission
Taylor Sills, [email protected]

GCC Seeking Potential Nominees for Cotton Organization Leadership Positions

In July, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) will convene a caucus of certified producer organizations representing cotton producers in Georgia to nominate individuals to serve as members and alternates of the Cotton Board, which administers the Cotton Research & Promotion Program, for three-year terms beginning January 1, 2026, as current board members’ terms expire on December 31, 2025. Furthermore, the Commission is also seeking nominees to represent Georgia as delegates and alternates to the National Cotton Council of America, board members and alternates to Cotton Incorporated, and board members to Southern Cotton Growers. Each of these organizations serves cotton producers and the overall industry in unique ways and requires well-rounded producer leaders to creatively ensure that each organization accomplishes their aims and purposes. Interested individuals should email the Commission’s office at [email protected].

The Georgia Cotton Commission is a producer-funded organization located in Perry, Georgia. The Commission began in 1965. Georgia cotton producers pay an assessment enabling the Commission to invest in programs of research, promotion, and education on behalf of all cotton producers of Georgia. For more information about the Georgia Cotton Commission please call (478) 988-4235 or on the web at www.georgiacottoncommission.org.

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For Immediate Release

April 28, 2025

CONTACT: Georgia Cotton Commission
Taylor Sills, [email protected]

Georgia Agricultural Commodity Commissions Seek Nominations

Atlanta, GA – Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper announced today that five of Georgia’s Agricultural Commodity Commissions are seeking nominations from producers to serve on their respective commissions. Nomination forms are available on the Georgia Department of Agriculture’s website and will be accepted until May 23, 2025. Administered by the Georgia Department of Agriculture, these commissions oversee farmer-funded programs dedicated to strengthening Georgia’s #1 industry through research, education, and promotion of a number of Georgia Grown commodities.

“Georgia’s Agriculture Commodity Commissions remain a cornerstone of our state’s #1 industry, driving innovation and growth through research, market development, and education,” said Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J Harper. “As we look to the future of agriculture in Georgia, I encourage our producers to take an active role by serving on these commissions—your voice and leadership are critical to the continued strength and sustainability of agriculture in our state.”

Producers can nominate themselves, be nominated by others, or receive a nomination from an affiliated organization for their commodity. Their role involves attending periodic meetings and making decisions on behalf of their peers. Commission members serve a three-year term, with the possibility of reappointment. They represent the interests of the commodity’s producers. The Commodity Commission Ex Officio Committee makes appointments to the commissions in July.

Commission Members with Expiring Terms:

• Beef Commission: Ernie Ford (Calhoun County), Chuck Joiner (Carroll County), and Allen Wiggins (Turner County)
• Cotton Commission: Matt Coley (Dooly County) and Steven Meeks (Wayne County)
• Equine Commission: Beth Williams (Oconee County) and Cassie Taylor (Telfair County)
• Tobacco Commission: Chance Callaway (Evans County)
• Soybean Commission: Brian Ogletree (Lamar County) and Jesse Patrick (Morgan County)

Nomination forms are available on the Georgia Department of Agriculture’s dedicated commodity commission webpage or can be requested via email. Completed forms should be submitted by email or mail to:

Georgia Dept of Agriculture

ATTN: Fred Rayfield

19 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. SW.

Suite 324

Atlanta, GA 30334

For further information, please contact Fred Rayfield at 404-727-7899 or [email protected].

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About the Georgia Commodity Commissions

Established in the 1960s by the Georgia General Assembly, the Georgia Agriculture Commodity Commissions operate as official entities of the State of Georgia. The Ex Officio Committee responsible for appointments includes the Commissioner of Agriculture, the President of the Georgia Farm Bureau, and two members appointed by the Georgia Senate and House Agriculture Committees.

Media Contacts

Matthew Agvent, Communications Director

770-238-7216

[email protected]

Liz Rivera-Brown, Deputy Communications Director

404-772-2056

[email protected]

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For Immediate Release

April 24, 2025

CONTACT: UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Jordan Powers, 706-542-4274, [email protected]

University of Georgia Grand Farm to break ground in Perry, Georgia, on May 2 (MEDIA ADVISORY)

What: The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) and Grand Farm are coming together to build the University of Georgia Grand Farm (UGA Grand Farm), a working innovation farm with plans to deploy the first field projects in 2025.

CAES and Grand Farm are creating a robust regional agricultural innovation ecosystem. The roots of this partnership go back five years when University System of Georgia Chancellor Sonny Perdue helped inaugurate the Grand Farm during its launch ceremony in North Dakota while serving as U.S. secretary of agriculture.

The farm is situated on 250 acres in Perry, Georgia, next to the Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter and at the heart of the state’s agricultural landscape.

 

Where: UGA Grand Farm, 1101 Limerock Road, Perry, GA

(32.43599 N, 83.73654 W)

 

When: 10 a.m. EST on Friday, May 2, 2025 (parking/access begins at 9 a.m.)

 

Who: Invited speakers include:

 Tyler Harper, Agriculture Commissioner of Georgia

Larry Walker, Georgia State Senator

Sonny Perdue, Chancellor, University System of Georgia

Jere Morehead, President, University of Georgia

Nick Place, Dean and Director, CAES

Greg Tehven, Co-founder and Board Chair, Grand Farm

 

Photo Opps:

• VIP speakers at podium 
• VIPs with shovels for groundbreaking
• Field demonstrations
• Access to VIPs for interviews (by request)

RSVP: Media outlets must RSVP to CAES PR Manager Jordan Powers at [email protected]

Event Contact: Sean Montgomery, CAES Office of Research, Photography and Creative Design Specialist, [email protected]

Media Contact: Jordan Powers, CAES Office of Marketing and Communications, PR Manager, [email protected]

UGA Grand Farm Contact: Kaytlyn Cobb, UGA Grand Farm, Regional Assistant Director, [email protected]

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For Immediate Release

April 22, 2025

CONTACT: Home Builders Association of Georgia
Cindy Morley, 770-365-2103, [email protected]

Op-Ed from Home Builders Association of Georgia:

Georgia’s New Lawsuit Abuse Reform Legislation: A Lifeline for Small Businesses and Communities

Georgia has taken a significant step forward in safeguarding small businesses, protecting consumers, and ensuring a fairer legal environment for all. The passage of Senate Bills 68 and 69 marks a victory not just for small business owners, but for Georgia’s economy as a whole.

Taking on the trial lawyers was no easy task, but that’s exactly what Governor Brian Kemp, State Senator John Kennedy, and countless other lawmakers did. As the bill was gaining momentum, one Georgia trial lawyer even threatened to sue small business owners that spoke up in support of reforms. Remarks like those acutely highlight the need for reform.

Residential construction is a vital industry in Georgia as the state faces a housing affordability crisis. Home builders across the state – many of whom  are small business owners  –  are committed to making sure every Georgian can realize the dream of home ownership. But one lawsuit, even if they were not at fault, can wipe them out of business through higher insurance premiums. The Home Builders Association of Georgia applauds these reforms, calling them a “monumental step toward reducing lawsuit abuse, lowering insurance costs and protecting hardworking Georgians.”

The Home Builders Association of Georgia was proud to stand with many other small business owners across the state, encouraging lawmakers to support tort reform.

For years, small businesses in Georgia have been drowning under the weight of frivolous lawsuits that drive up insurance premiums and divert vital resources away from innovation and growth. This issue has become a severe threat to the livelihood of many.

As highlighted by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, SB 68 directly addresses the rising tide of lawsuit abuse that has negatively impacted small business owners across the state. These new laws offer critical protections that will make Georgia a more affordable and competitive place to do business. As Governor Kemp said in his press conference unveiling these reforms earlier this year, “grocery stores, hospitals, road pavers, small business owners, truckers, restaurants, mom-and-pop stores” are all facing threats to their livelihood as a result of lawsuit abuse.” Home builders are no different. These frivolous lawsuits are impacting our businesses and our ability to build houses and address the critical housing shortage in Georgia.

Georgia’s tort reform package is not just about reducing insurance premiums. It’s about ensuring that our courts can focus on justice rather than being bogged down by meritless claims. Notably, nothing in these bills prevent victims from accessing justice. Juries still have the independence to determine awards. Thank you, Governor Kemp, Senator Kennedy, and every lawmaker who worked tirelessly to pass these bills. You’ve given Georgia’s businesses, workers, and communities a fighting chance to thrive.

Franklin Bailey
President
Home Builders Association of Georgia
Owner, Franklin Bailey Construction

The Home Builders Association is the voice for over 3,800 builders and associate members across the state. The Association is dedicated to creating, promoting, and protecting an ongoing successful environment for affordable housing in order to benefit its members and the citizens of Georgia.

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For Immediate Release

April 14, 2025

CONTACT: National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Dawn Brosnan, 912-988-1847, [email protected]

Author Talk and Book Launch for Robert Edsel’s latest book, ‘Remember Us: American Sacrifice, Dutch Freedom, and a Forever Promise Forged in World War II’

Wednesday, April 23, 2025 | 11 am

Chatham County, GA – The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is honored to host New York Times # 1 bestselling author of The Monuments Men, Robert M. Edsel, as part of the museum’s Author Talk series on Wednesday, April 23, at 11:00 a.m. This special program marks the launch of his highly anticipated new book, Remember Us: American Sacrifice, Dutch Freedom, and a Forever Promise Forged in World War II, set for release on April 29, 2025, with Harper Horizon.

This program is free and open to the public, registration is requested at https://forms.gle/pdCnqp9RDNEWv3F3A

About the Book:

Remember Us begins in the pre-dawn hours of Hitler’s invasion of Western Europe on May 10, 1940, when his forces rolled into the small province of Limburg in the Netherlands, shattering more than 100 years of peace. After enduring more than four years of occupation, the Dutch people saw their freedom restored when American forces reached Limburg in September 1944. This marked the final portion of the Allies’ liberation of Western Europe before their advance on Nazi Germany was halted.

Remember Us is a compelling ensemble narrative that chronicles the lives of twelve central characters over a six-year span including Lieutenant Colonel Robert Cole, the first member of the 101st Airborne to receive the Medal of Honor; Sergeant Jeff Wiggins of the 960th Quartermaster Company, who escaped the poverty and racism of Alabama only to face a new indignity: digging graves in wartime Europe; and Frieda van Schäik, a teenager who falls in love with an American soldier.

In this rich, dramatic, and suspenseful story, both the horrors of war and the transcendent power of gratitude are captured, showcasing the extraordinary measures the Dutch have taken to thank their liberators. Drawing on never-before-seen letters, diaries, and other historical records, Edsel shows the painful price of freedom, on the battlefields and inside American homes. Remember Us is a reminder that grief is universal, that humanity knows no national or racial boundaries, and that we all want to be remembered, somehow, someway, by somebody.

About the Author

Robert M. Edsel is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of four non-fiction books including Rescuing da Vinci, Saving Italy, and The Monuments Men, which served as the basis for Academy Award recipient George Clooney’s 2014 film. Mr. Edsel has been honored with the Texas Medal of the Arts; the President’s Call to Service Award; the Hope for Humanity Award, presented by the Dallas Holocaust Museum; and the Foundation for the National Archives’ Records of Achievement Award.

In 2022, the United States Army and the Smithsonian Institution made Mr. Edsel an honorary graduate of the first Army Monuments Officer Training Program, an idea Mr. Edsel advocated for nearly twenty years. Mr. Edsel is also the Founder and Chairman of the Monuments Men and Women Foundation, recipient of the National Humanities Medal, awarded by President George W. Bush.

About the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force:

The Museum educates visitors about the character, courage, valor, and patriotism of the brave individuals who fought in the Eighth Air Force, the largest air armada in history. The Museum uses films, exhibits, artifacts, and archival materials to tell the stories of individuals who served in the Eighth Air Force. Their sacrifices made victory in World War II possible.

Museum highlights include a fully restored B-17 “Flying Fortress” and the multimedia “Mission Experience,” an immersive simulated bombing mission in a special theater utilizing actual combat footage.

The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is located at 175 Bourne Avenue, Pooler, GA. Operating hours are Tue-Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun, Noon – 5 pm. For more information, call (912) 748-8888 or www.mightyeighth.org.

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For Immediate Release

April 10, 2025

CONTACT: UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Jordan Powers, 706-542-4274, [email protected]

UGA Integrative Precision Agriculture Conference to focus on advancing precision agriculture across the Southeast

The 2025 Integrative Precision Agriculture conference is scheduled for May 1 in Perry, Georgia. Registration is open through April 15.

Hosted by the University of Georgia Institute for Integrative Precision Agriculture and UGA Grand Farm, the conference will coincide with the UGA Grand Farm groundbreaking on May 2.

“The conference focuses on developing strong private and public partnerships to advance precision agriculture in the Southeast,” said George Vellidis, UGA IIPA director. “The program offers a combination of industry and university presentations as well as networking opportunities.”  

The conference agenda includes industry presentations from companies working on emerging technologies that will make agricultural production more efficient. They range from companies developing robots for autonomous weeding to companies offering fertilizer prescriptions from remotely sensed satellite images.

Presenters from the University of Georgia, the Georgia Tech Research Institute and North Dakota State University will describe how they work closely with industry partners and growers to promote the adoption of these emerging technologies. A panel of commodity group representatives will discuss pressing problems facing growers that could be solved by adopting precision agriculture practices and technologies. The day will conclude with a reception and graduate student poster competition with graduate students from UGA, Georgia Tech and Fort Valley State University.

On the afternoon of May 2, participating companies and university researchers will demonstrate their equipment at the site of the UGA Grand Farm. Demonstrations include the Sabanto autonomous tractor, the Solix Ag Robotics autonomous sprayer and the Monarch MK-V electric tractor, among others.

The conference is also designed to leverage the opportunities offered by UGA Grand Farm. UGA Grand Farm, located adjacent to the grounds of the Georgia National Fairgrounds in Perry, will serve as a hub for research, education and sustainable agriculture practices.

By harnessing the power of precision agriculture, robotics and data analytics, researchers from the University of Georgia and industry partners will increase productivity, conserve resources and ensure food security for future generations. Grand Farm representatives on the conference program will discuss the opportunities offered by the UGA Grand Farm.

Learn more and register at iipa.uga.edu/2nd-integrative-precision-ag-conference/.

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For Immediate Release

April 9, 2025

CONTACT: UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Jordan Powers, 706-542-4274, [email protected]

Thousands of irises about to bloom in coastal Georgia — including mystery varieties

The Rivers of Iris exhibit at the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens features hundreds of Lousiana iris varieties, including several mystery irises that could prove to be one of two exceptionally rare iris species.

Iris curator Stan Gray estimates that peak bloom will occur this year during the fourth week of April, extending into early May. 

If you or your team is interested in covering this year’s iris season, the UGA Dept. of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences will connect you with Stan and his team for interviews and photo/video opportunities. Additionally, a bit of background on the Rivers of Iris project can be found here (a media kit is linked within):

https://cultivate.caes.uga.edu/experts-study-mystery-irises-at-coastal-georgia-botanical-gardens/index.html

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April 8, 2025

CONTACT: Georgia EMC
Kim Broun, [email protected]

Georgia EMC announces new leadership for community and economic development team

Bradley Harris

(TUCKER, Ga., April 8)—Georgia Electric Membership Corporation (EMC) recently promoted Bradley Harris to vice president, community and economic development.

“Bradley is widely respected by Georgia’s electric cooperatives and holds strong connections within economic development circles throughout the state,” said Dennis Chastain, president/CEO of Georgia EMC. “His dedication to serving our EMCs and extensive knowledge of economic development make him the ideal candidate to lead our efforts as we continue to drive economic growth and strengthen the communities that EMCs serve.”

Harris joined Georgia EMC in July 2003. For the last several years, he has served as Georgia EMC’s manager of economic development leading Georgia EMC’s economic development team that partners with the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) in marketing the state to new business and industry. Harris has supported GDEcD on hundreds of projects over the last 22 years that have created thousands of new jobs for Georgia citizens. Prior to his time at Georgia EMC, Harris served as a project manager for the Georgia Department of Industry, Trade & Tourism.

Harris serves as an active member of several national, regional, and state professional organizations, including the Industrial Asset Management Council (IAMC), the Georgia Economic Development Association (GEDA) and as a member of the Southeast US Korean Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Last year, he was named one of North America’s Top 50 Economic Developer Award recipients by Consultant Connect.

“I am grateful to be able to work with a talented group of community and economic development professionals at Georgia EMC,” said Harris. “I look forward to continuing our mission of increasing economic prosperity across our state through the services we provide on behalf of Georgias EMCs.”

Harris is a native of Conyers and is a graduate of The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina. 

 About Georgia EMC:
Georgia EMC is the statewide trade association representing the state’s 41 electric cooperatives, Oglethorpe Power Corp., Georgia Transmission Corp. and Georgia System Operations Corp. Collectively, Georgia’s customer-owned co-ops provide electricity and related services to 4.4 million people, nearly half of Georgia’s population, across 73 percent of the state’s land area. To learn more, visit www.georgiaemc.com and follow us on Facebook and X.

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April 7, 2025

CONTACT: Georgia EMC
Kim Broun, [email protected]

April 14 declared Lineworker Appreciation Day in Georgia

(Tucker, GA., April 7, 2025) – Electric membership corporations (EMCs) in Georgia, are banding together on April 14 to celebrate Lineworker Appreciation Day where they will pay tribute to electric lineworkers across the state. 
 
On a normal day, a lineworker’s efforts may go unnoticed. However, in moments of crisis when power outages strike, lineworkers emerge as heroes and a sign of hope.

“Electric lineworkers are the unsung heroes who bring light back to communities after the storm has passed,” said Dennis Chastain, president of Georgia EMC. “In the wake of storms and disasters, their tireless efforts restore not only power but also hope and resilience to those who need it most.”

The tasks given to lineworkers are important 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and recent storms in the southeast have provided these heroes the opportunity to shine. In particular, power restoration following Hurricane Helene brought together hundreds of lineworkers from EMCs in 12 states to restore power to 435,000 EMC members in Georgia. While several EMCs had to rebuild nearly their entire distribution systems which took more than 80 years to construct, the majority of the work was completed within three weeks’ time.

To recognize the tireless work of lineworkers and their dedication to the communities they serve, resolutions were introduced this year in both the Georgia House of Representatives and Senate to mark the occasion on April 14:

House Resolution 432 introduced by House Energy, Utilities, and Telecommunications Chairman Don Parsons (R – Marietta)

Senate Resolution 261 introduced by Senate Regulated Industries and Utilities Chairman Bill Cowsert (R – Athens)

In addition to Lineworker Appreciation Day on April 14, Georgia’s lineworkers were also celebrated by Senate Pro Tempore John Kennedy (R-Bolingbroke) on Tuesday, March 11. Senator Kennedy honored over a hundred lineworkers across Georgia by recognizing them on the steps of the Georgia State Capitol for their efforts and dedication during last year’s storm restoration efforts.

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR LINEWORKERS:

• #ThankALineworker
  EMC employees, members and friends are invited to express thanks and appreciation by posting social media messages to lineworkers using the hashtag #ThankALineworker.
• Lineman license plate
  To honor lineworkers’ service, the state created a specialty license plate that any driver can request for their vehicle. Proceeds from the sale of “Thank a Lineman” license plates benefit the Burn and Reconstructive Centers of America which provides assistance to burn patients and their families at the Joseph M. Still Burn Center at Doctors Hospital in Augusta. To purchase, Georgians should visit the Department of Revenue website when renewing their annual motor vehicle registration.

About Georgia EMC:
Georgia EMC is the statewide trade association representing the state’s 41 electric cooperatives, Oglethorpe Power Corp., Georgia Transmission Corp. and Georgia System Operations Corp. Collectively, Georgia’s customer-owned co-ops provide electricity and related services to 4.4 million people, nearly half of Georgia’s population, across 73 percent of the state’s land area. To learn more, visit www.georgiaemc.com and follow us on Facebook and X.

Linemen compete at last year’s Georgia Lineman’s Rodeo. This year’s event is May 2-3 at Camp John Hope in Fort Valley and everyone is welcome to attend.

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For Immediate Release

April 7, 2025

CONTACT: National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Dawn Brosnan, 912-988-1847, [email protected]

Voices of Freedom Mobile Recording Studio coming to the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force

Saturday, April 12, 2025 | 10 am-5 pm

Chatham County, GA – The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is honored to host the Voices of Freedom Mobile Recording Studio on Saturday, April 12, 2025. This special collaboration with the Americans in Wartime Experience will document and preserve the personal stories of veterans and those who contributed to the war effort on the home front.

The Voices of Freedom project is dedicated to capturing firsthand accounts of service and sacrifice, ensuring that the experiences of wartime veterans and civilians alike are preserved for future generations. The opportunity to record interviews for this event has been pre-arranged, and all available slots have been scheduled in advance.

“We are thrilled to partner with the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force for this important event,” said Dennis Gill, Director of the Voices of Freedom Project. “Our mission aligns perfectly with the museum’s goal of preserving the stories of courage, character, and patriotism displayed by the men and women of the Eighth Air Force from World War II to the present.”

While interviews for this event are already scheduled, visitors are encouraged to explore the museum’s exhibits, which highlight the service and legacy of the Eighth Air Force from World War II to the present day.

About the Americans in Wartime Experience

The Americans in Wartime Experience explores the impact of war and conflict on America since WWI. It honors those who served in the military and on the home front and highlights the values they demonstrated in serving – duty, honor, and courage. It examines how periods of conflict have profoundly shaped American society. It educates visitors about the costs of war, both on a personal and social level. It challenges visitors to remember the service and sacrifices made by their fellow citizens to preserve and defend our freedoms. 

About the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force:

The Museum educates visitors about the character, courage, valor, and patriotism of the brave individuals who fought in the Eighth Air Force, the largest air armada in history. The Museum uses films, exhibits, artifacts, and archival materials to tell the stories of individuals who served in the Eighth Air Force. Their sacrifices made victory in World War II possible.

Museum highlights include a fully restored B-17 “Flying Fortress” and the multimedia “Mission Experience,” an immersive simulated bombing mission in a special theater utilizing actual combat footage.

The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is located at 175 Bourne Avenue, Pooler, GA. Operating hours are Tue-Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun, Noon – 5 pm. For more information, call (912) 748-8888 or www.mightyeighth.org.

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For Immediate Release

April 2, 2025

CONTACT: Positive Child Alliance
Jennifer L. Stein, [email protected]

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month: ‘Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention’

ATLANTA, GA APRIL 1, 2025 – This April, Positive Child Alliance Georgia, formerly known as Prevent Child Abuse Georgia and Prevent Child Abuse America (PCA America) unite for National Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Month, championing the theme: “Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention.”

At the heart of this campaign is our North Star—a world where all children and families are living a purposeful and happy life with hope for the future. To achieve this vision, we must prioritize prevention—ensuring that families have the resources, support, and connections they need before challenges become crises. “Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and every family deserves the support to build a strong foundation,” said PCA Georgia Executive Director Jennifer Stein. “Hope fuels resilience, and prevention provides the tools to create lasting change. This April, we celebrate the power of prevention and the communities that make it possible.”

How to Get Involved in CAP Month 2025

• #WearBlueDay – April 4 – Show your support by wearing blue and sharing photos using #WearBlueDay2025, #PoweredByHope, and #CAPMonth.
• Reach out to a local PCA Georgia council; more than 35 councils are providing direct service to families across the state.
• Social Media Campaign: Follow Positive Childhood Alliance Georgia for shareable content, action steps, and real stories of hope and prevention in action.

Prevention: The Pathway to a Brighter Future

“Prevention is possible. With the right policies, investments, and community support, every family can thrive,” said PCA America President and CEO Dr. Melissa Merrick. “Hope is what inspires us to dream of a better future, and prevention is what turns those dreams into reality.”

Through evidence-based programs, PCA Georgia empowers prevention professionals and families with critical resources – helping them navigate challenges such as economic hardship, childcare access, and health concerns. By investing in preventive solutions, we lay the groundwork for a healthier, more hopeful future for all children.

About Positive Childhood Alliance Georgia

At Positive Childhood Alliance Georgia, we are dedicated to supporting families and communities to provide children with a positive and promising start in life. Through education, support, and connection to needed resources, we work to expand programs, practices, and policies that prevent child abuse and neglect. Together, we are building stronger families and a brighter future for all children in Georgia.

About Prevent Child Abuse America

Prevent Child Abuse America is the nation’s oldest and largest organization dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect before it happens. Guided by our North Star, we work to create a world where all children and families live a purposeful and happy life with hope for the future. Through advocacy, innovation, and a commitment to equity, PCA America is building a future where prevention is a reality for every family.

To learn more about CAP Month 2025 and how you can get involved, visit tinyurl.com/CAPmonthGA. Join us this April to celebrate hope, strengthen prevention, and help build a world where every child and family thrives.

Courtesy of Governor Brian P. Kemp Office of the Governor In advance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, Positive Childhood Alliance Georgia and the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services, Prevention, and Community Support Section hosted prevention partners at the state capitol on March 18. Representatives from PCA Georgia, DFCS, local PCA Georgia councils, elected officials, and others gathered for a photo with Gov. Brian Kemp, and First Lady Marty Kemp. A proclamation signed by Gov. Kemp commemorates April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. District 42 State Senator Elena Parent served as a liaison for this year’s event at the Gold Dome.

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For Immediate Release

March 28, 2025

CONTACT: Georgia Cotton Commission
Taylor Sills, [email protected]

Georgia Cotton Commission Pleased with Referendum Results

Perry, GA – The Georgia Cotton Commission Board of Directors approved $660,818 in research for the 2026 crop year during the March board meeting.

The money will fund 15 projects that will be conducted by University of Georgia researchers and extension specialists. Projects range from funding for the UGA cotton team to research on resistant weeds, soil management practices, evaluating the economics of conservation production, irrigation management and many more. The goal of this producer-funded research is to help cotton producers by conducting research that can either raise yields, promote efficiency or open new markets.

All projects are vetted by both the commission board of directors and State Support Committee, made up of cotton producers from across the state, and the commission’s research review committee, which is made up of researchers, crop consultants and local UGA Extension Agriculture/Natural Resource agents.

GCC Chairman Bart Davis, a cotton farmer from Colquitt County said, “Our board understands that times are very difficult on the farm these days, and we strive to be good stewards of producers’ money by funding research projects that promote efficiency, increases yield, and long-term sustainability.”

The Georgia Cotton Commission is a producer-funded organization located in Perry. The commission began its work in 1965. Georgia cotton producers pay an assessment enabling the commission to invest in programs of research, promotion and education on behalf of all cotton producers of Georgia. For more information about the Georgia Cotton Commission, call (478) 988-4235 or go to the www.georgiacottoncommission.org website.

 

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For Immediate Release

March 27, 2025

CONTACT: Georgia Peanut Commission
Joy Crosby, [email protected]

Georgia Peanut Commission approves funding for FY 2025-2026 research projects

Board approves $765,189 in research funding

TIFTON, Ga. — The Georgia Peanut Commission (GPC) board of directors has approved $764,189 in research project funding for the 2025-26 research budget year. This action was taken during the commission’s March board meeting. The research projects approved include 40 project proposals submitted from the University of Georgia, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, Kennesaw State University, North Carolina State University and the USDA Agricultural Research Service.   

“As a peanut grower, I’m proud to invest in the Georgia Peanut Commission and in the future of the peanut industry by supporting research that continues to demonstrate a return on our investment,” says Donald Chase, GPC Research Committee chairman. “We are proud of our partnership with research institutions and look forward to seeing the results which will benefit farmers in the state and enhance the sustainability of our crop.”

Georgia’s peanut growers invest $2 per ton annually toward GPC programs which includes research, promotion and education. The research programs primarily focus on peanut breeding, conservation methods, irrigation and water management, as well as pests, weed and disease management.

The GPC board of directors approved additional projects focusing on non-food uses of peanuts. The projects aim to provide a new opportunity for growth within the peanut industry. The new projects are looking at utilizing normal-oleic peanuts in poultry feed, an economic feasibility and performance evaluation of pasture-raised broiler chickens in peanut-based farming systems and converting peanut oil from a non-drying oil to a drying oil for timber oils and coatings.

Additionally, GPC manages funding for the Southeastern Peanut Research Initiative which includes research funding of $1,460,202 for projects in Alabama, Florida and Georgia. These projects are funded through the National Peanut Board checkoff dollars from farmers.

For additional information and a complete list of the research projects funded by the Georgia Peanut Commission visit gapeanuts.com.

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For Immediate Release

March 27, 2025

CONTACT: Georgia Cotton Commission
Taylor Sills, [email protected]

Georgia Cotton Commission Pleased with Referendum Results

Every three years, pursuant to law, Georgia cotton producers have the opportunity to vote to continue the $1 per bale assessment that funds the Georgia Cotton Commission’s programs of research, promotion and education.  The 2025 referendum period was February 10  through March 12. The Georgia Department of Agriculture recently recorded the votes, and the result shows 87.83% of voters favored the continuation.

 

Colquitt County cotton producer Bart Davis, who serves as Chairman of the Georgia Cotton Commission, said “I am pleased that growers have faith in the Commission’s programs, even as cotton producers face generational, existential crisis.  The members of the Commission will strive, and continue to push the industry, to find creative solutions to best do research, promote, and educate consumers and policy makers to the benefit of the cotton producers of this state.”

 

The Georgia Cotton Commission is a producer-funded organization located in Perry, Georgia. The Commission began in 1965. Georgia cotton producers pay an assessment enabling the Commission to invest in programs of research, promotion, and education on behalf of all cotton producers of Georgia. For more information about this and other topics please call 478-988-4235 or visit us on the web at www.georgiacottoncommission.org.

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For Immediate Release

March 20, 2025

CONTACT: UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Jordan Powers, 706-542-4274, [email protected]

New resource from University of Georgia: Georgia Ag Impact Report

The University of Georgia is excited to introduce the Georgia Ag Impact Report, a dynamic digital platform from the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES). Developed in collaboration with our Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development, this resource delivers key economic data and research-backed insights on Georgia’s agricultural industry.

With yearly, county and commodity-level data, high-impact stats, and insights tailored for news media, this tool is designed to support your reporting on Georgia agriculture with credible, up-to-date information.

UGA’s CAES can connect you with our experts, clarify any data or provide additional resources as you explore the report. Contact [email protected].

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For Immediate Release

March 19, 2025

CONTACT: National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Dawn Brosnan, 912-988-1847, [email protected]

Author Talk | Tuskegee Airman — One Man’s Story with Bob Sheppard

Wednesday, March 26, 2025 | 11 am

Chatham County, GA – The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force’s Author Talk series proudly presents Bob Sheppard, sharing the powerful story of his father, MSgt. James Sheppard, and his service with the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II. Join us Wednesday, March 26, at 11:00 a.m. at the museum for this inspiring presentation.

This program is free to the public, but registration is requested https://forms.gle/ChW2HSVa5cuXMQ3Q8

About the Talk

Growing up in the 1960s and ’70s, Bob Sheppard and his siblings had no idea that their father, MSgt. James Sheppard, had served in an all-Black segregated unit of the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. It wasn’t until later in life that Bob had the opportunity to accompany his father to air shows, speaking engagements, and special events, meeting the legendary Tuskegee Airmen and learning firsthand about their courage, resilience, and service.

After his father was no longer able to travel, Bob stepped in to carry forward his story. Since MSgt. Sheppard’s passing in 2018, Bob traveled the country, sharing his father’s experiences and the lasting legacy of the famed 332nd Fighter Group.

Now, audiences will have the unique opportunity to hear Bob Sheppard’s compelling presentation, where he will share a deeply personal account of hardship, determination, and triumph. His talk will include a segment from a documentary he co-produced, offering a powerful glimpse into his father’s journey—from training in Alabama and Michigan to serving in Italy at the height of WWII.

About the Speaker

A veteran of the broadcasting, financial services, and corporate sustainability industries, Bob Sheppard retired after leading sales and marketing efforts for a U.S. firm specializing in commercial and industrial drones. His passion for history and storytelling now fuels his mission to ensure that the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen continues to inspire future generations.

About the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force:

The Museum educates visitors about the character, courage, valor, and patriotism of the brave individuals who fought in the Eighth Air Force, the largest air armada in history. The Museum uses films, exhibits, artifacts, and archival materials to tell the stories of individuals who served in the Eighth Air Force. Their sacrifices made victory in World War II possible.

Museum highlights include a fully restored B-17 “Flying Fortress” and the multimedia “Mission Experience,” an immersive simulated bombing mission in a special theater utilizing actual combat footage.

The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is located at 175 Bourne Avenue, Pooler, GA. Operating hours are Tue-Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun, Noon – 5 pm. For more information, call (912) 748-8888 or www.mightyeighth.org.

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For Immediate Release

March 19, 2025

CONTACT: Georgia Cotton Commission
Taylor Sills, [email protected]

Georgia Cotton Commission Welcomes Emergency Commodity Assistance Program

On March 18th, which was also National Agriculture Day, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced the availability of funding for the new Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP).  This program seeks to aid American row crop producers who are reeling from depressed commodity markets and unsustainable input prices.  The Georgia Cotton Commission is appreciative of this streamlined implementation.

Colquitt County cotton producer Bart Davis, who also serves as the Chairman of the Georgia Cotton Commission, said “We again thank Congress for the passage of the bill that included this program, and are especially appreciative of President Trump, Secretary Rollins, and the entire team at USDA for making implementation of ECAP a priority.”  Davis later noted the current state of the farm economy adding “this will help producers obtain critical financing, which is extremely difficult in the current economic environment.”

ECAP signup begins March 19th and will finish August 15th.  Eligibility is determined based on a producer’s crop year 2024 planted and prevented planted acres reported to USDA-FSA on a FSA-578.  The payment rate for cotton is $84.74 per acre and the initial payments will be factored by 85% to ensure that program payments do not exceed available funding.  Producers are directed to their local USDA Service Center for additional information and questions.

The Georgia Cotton Commission is a producer-funded organization located in Perry, Georgia. The Commission began in 1965. Georgia cotton producers pay an assessment enabling the Commission to invest in programs of research, promotion, and education on behalf of all cotton producers of Georgia. For more information about the Georgia Cotton Commission please call 478-988-4235 or on the web at www.georgiacottoncommission.org.

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For Immediate Release

Chatham County, GA – The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force’s Author Talk series is proud to present Peggy Scholberg, who will discuss her latest book, Girls in a World at War on Friday, March 21^st  at 11:00 a.m. at the museum.

The program is free to the public, but registration is requested https://forms.gle/adPXQ5JVD6yvMrTB7

About the Book

After visiting a friend who returned from World War II confined in a body cast, Kathy Collens felt compelled to enlist in the war effort. In 1944, at the age of 23, she joined the Army. Despite her background as a college-educated dietician from an affluent family, and having attended the 1936 Berlin Olympics, Kathy discovered nothing could fully prepare her for the realities of war.

​Girls in a World at War offers a firsthand account of Kathy and four other young women who served in the 223rd General Hospital. Stationed in France, they operated out of a converted horse barn situated near the 82nd Airborne quarters and in close proximity to the Battle of the Bulge. Their patients included survivors released from the Dachau concentration camp.

​The narrative unfolds with vivid descriptions of crossing the Atlantic, lodging in a castle, working with German prisoners of war, and attempts to make dehydrated food and Spam taste good. The book describes the experiences of weddings, a paratroopers’ jump-off dance, and the surprise of a baby’s birth, immersing readers in the narrative. Their adventures included interludes in Switzerland, sailing in the Mediterranean, and the jubilation of Victory in Europe (VE) Day. The story also touches on visits to Paris, Biarritz, and trips to the magnificent Reims Cathedral to see ‘The Angel of the Smile’ statue and attend a memorable Christmas Eve service. Romantic entanglements add another layer of complexity to the girls’ wartime journey.

​Throughout their trials, these women provided invaluable support to each other, navigating the tragedies of war with resilience and camaraderie. As readers engage with their stories, they’ll find themselves laughing and perhaps shedding a tear, gaining a rare insight into the female perspective of war, grounded in real-life events.

About the Author

Peggy Munro Scholberg is delighted to at last bring her mother’s telling of her story from World War II to publication. Peggy and her husband Bill live in Apple Valley, Minnesota, where they raised two sons. Together, they retraced her parents’ European travels and delved into World War II history.

Following her career as a pharmacy manager, Peggy now revels in retirement.  Mirroring her mother’s passion, Peggy delights in culinary experimentation, while inheriting her father’s fondness for sports.

About the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force:

The Museum educates visitors about the character, courage, valor, and patriotism of the brave individuals who fought in the Eighth Air Force, the largest air armada in history. The Museum uses films, exhibits, artifacts, and archival materials to tell the stories of individuals who served in the Eighth Air Force. Their sacrifices made victory in World War II possible.

Museum highlights include a fully restored B-17 “Flying Fortress” and the multimedia “Mission Experience,” an immersive simulated bombing mission in a special theater utilizing actual combat footage.

The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is located at 175 Bourne Avenue, Pooler, GA. Operating hours are Tue-Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun, Noon – 5 pm. For more information, call (912) 748-8888 or www.mightyeighth.org.

For Immediate Release

CONTACT: Georgia Peanut Commission
Joy Crosby, 229-386-3690, [email protected]

Celebrate March — National Peanut Month

The Georgia peanut industry joins together to celebrate National Peanut Month in March and donate peanut butter to the Atlanta Community Food Bank

TIFTON, Georgia – March is National Peanut Month, a time to celebrate one of America’s favorite foods! The Georgia peanut industry kicked off the celebration this week by hosting the 2025 Georgia PB&J Day in Atlanta, Georgia. During the event, the Georgia Peanut Commission and Peanut Proud donated 7,200 jars of peanut butter to the Atlanta Community Food Bank.

Peanuts and peanut butter were promoted during the event by industry partners serving grilled PB&Js, country-fried peanuts, peanut candy and more. Governor Brian Kemp presented a proclamation recognizing March as National Peanut Month while Sen. Russ Goodman, chairman of the Senate Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee, and Rep. Robert Dickey, chairman of the House Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee presented resolutions recognizing the importance of Georgia’s peanut industry.

“Peanuts are Georgia’s official state crop, and the state boasts the largest share of peanut production in the U.S. at 50 percent for the 2024 crop,” says Joe Boddiford, chairman of the Georgia Peanut Commission. “Georgia’s 4,000 peanut farmers contribute approximately $2 billion annually to the state and local economy.”

Sponsors and exhibitors included the Georgia Peanut Commission, National Peanut Buying Points Association, Kroger, Georgia Farm Bureau, National Peanut Board, Peanut Proud, Atlanta Community Food Bank, The Peanut Institute and the University of Georgia Peanut Team.

As part of the celebration, peanut butter valued at $10,000, was presented to the Atlanta Community Food Bank. The Atlanta Community Food Bank provides food and grocery products to more than 700 community-based, nonprofit partners throughout 29 counties in metro Atlanta and north Georgia. According to Kyle Waide, president & CEO of the Atlanta Community Food Bank, the need for food assistance is not going away. 

“The Food Bank has seen a 60 percent increase in the need for food assistance over the past three years. We are distributing food in record volumes to 240,000 households each month,” Waide says. “Peanut butter is a protein-rich food that can be a versatile pantry staple for a family or individual in need. We are grateful to the Georgia Peanut Commission and Peanut Proud for this generous donation that will help serve the 13 percent of the state’s population and 1 in 5 Georgia children who are food insecure.”

Coincidentally, March is National Nutrition Month – a great time to recognize the nutritional value of peanuts. One serving of peanuts is a good source of protein, vitamin E, niacin, folate, phosphorus and magnesium. Peanuts are naturally cholesterol-free and low in saturated fat.

For additional details and photos from the 2025 PB&J Day, visit the Georgia Peanut Commission website at GaPeanuts.com.

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About the Georgia Peanut Commission

The Georgia Peanut Commission was established in 1961 under the state’s Commodities Promotion Act. Today, the commission represents Georgia’s 4,000 peanut farmers and conducts programs in the areas of promotion, research and education. To learn more, visit GaPeanuts.com or follow @gapeanuts on Facebook, Instagram or X. 

About The Atlanta Community Food Bank

The Atlanta Community Food Bank works to end hunger with the food, people and big ideas needed to ensure our neighbors have the nourishment to lead healthy and productive lives. Far too many people in

our own community experience hunger every day. Through more than 700 community-based, nonprofit partners in 29 counties, we help thousands of families, children and seniors get healthy food every year. Our goal is that all hungry people across metro Atlanta and north Georgia will have access to the nutritious meals they need when they need them. It takes the power of our whole community to make that possible. In 2023, the Atlanta Community Food Bank distributed its one billionth meal. Join us at ACFB.org.

CONTACT: Brian Robinson, [email protected]

Parents encouraged to apply for Georgia’s Promise Scholarship