The Gulf United Metro Business Organization (GUMBO) recently hosted its 2024 Chairman’s Dinner at Perdido Beach Resort in Orange Beach. During the evening, GUMBO’s Board of Directors recognized several distinguished individuals for their service.
Awards were presented to outgoing board members Patrick Bussey and Tommy Lee, while Donna Watts received an award commemorating her longstanding contributions to the board and granting her Emeritus status. Additionally, outgoing Chairman Penny Groux was honored for her steadfast leadership and dedication to the organization, and a Service Appreciation Award was presented to retired Baldwin County Sheriff Hoss Mack.
Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth served as the keynote speaker at the group’s evening dinner following a private reception for guests and sponsors. In his address, Ainsworth praised GUMBO’s commitment to Baldwin County.
“Baldwin County is booming, and much of that growth is the result of active and committed groups like GUMBO,” said Ainsworth. “It’s essential that those of us in Montgomery work to provide Baldwin County with the roads, schools, and infrastructure necessary to keep pace with that growth.”
Ainsworth posted about the event afterward.
“Baldwin County is one of the fastest growing areas in the US thanks to their thriving business community. 19 people move there every day, and members of the GUMBO group and I discussed the pro-growth, pro-business policies that will keep Baldwin County booming.”
Baldwin County is one of the fastest growing areas in the US thanks to their thriving business community. 19 people move there every day, and members of the GUMBO group and I discussed the pro-growth, pro-business policies that will keep Baldwin County booming. pic.twitter.com/ypfodsAo50
— Will Ainsworth (@willainsworthAL) October 22, 2024
Chairman Groux highlighted GUMBO’s notable 2024 legislative achievements, including the successful passage of the Alabama Workforce Housing Tax Credit, a crucial initiative led by Senator Chris Elliott. She underscored GUMBO’s continued efforts in securing infrastructure advancements across South Baldwin County. Also of note were finalized applications for the Sweet Home Alabama Tourism Investment tax credits were finalized.
State lawmakers that attended the event included Senators Garlan Gudger, Bobby Singleton, and Chris Elliott, as well as Representatives Brett Easterbrook and Frances Holk-Jones.
The event supported the GUMBO PAC, a non-partisan political committee that empowers Baldwin County to amplify its voice in the political process. According to GUMBO, Baldwin County continues to be the fastest-growing county in Alabama. Much of that growth has been fed by the development of residential housing and the massive tourism and hospitality industry.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
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