Savannah-Chatham Day Crucial Face Time for Local Leaders

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Hundreds gather in Atlanta for what's come to be called the Savannah Party.

SAVANNAH, GA (WTOC) - Savannah-Chatham's needs, wants and concerns were placed front and center at the state capitol Thursday.

More than 400 key people from government, education, healthcare and business were there for the annual Savannah-Chatham Day festivities. But before that, candid conversations with Georgia policy makers under the gold dome.

It was the place to be for lawmakers, state leaders, and capitol staff. Hundreds of coastal hosts treated capitol guests to oysters and shrimp, spicy Savannah ribs and more for what has come to be called the "Savannah Party."

It's actually the widely anticipated, festive end to Savannah-Chatham Day in Atlanta, which at the outset is strictly business. Local leaders get updates on bills and discuss critical issues like ports and roads.

"Transportation is a huge factor," said Gov. Sonny Perdue, "and frankly we need good people to help us make those decisions."

With healthcare, education, jobs and taxes covered, hardly a stone is left unturned. But more than letters, calls and emails, these people say they're convinced the united front, the common voice, is key.

"Things get accomplished when you come together like that," Pete Liakakis, chairman of the Chatham County Commission.

"It's great for us that represent Chatham County up here, to have folks come up here, help us lobby for Savannah," said Georgia Sen. Eric Johnson (R-Savannah). "To draw attention to our needs in our community, from beach renourishment to roads to the convention center and the port. But it's also helpful just for citizens of Savannah to see government at work up here."

They asked me to moderate the meetings again, as I've done for several years. I can tell you, the commitment in terms of time and numbers has grown steadily over the years.

All this is sponsored by the Savannah-Area Chamber of Commerce.

Reported by: Sonny Dixon, sonnyd@wtoc.com