Sen. Golden recognized as Industry Champion by GIA

December 5 , 2007 - Atlanta, GA– State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) has received the first annual “Industry Champion” Award presented by the Georgia Industry Association (GIA). The presentation was first made November 27 in Valdosta by GIA Executive Director Sheri Wilburn at the Manufacturers Appreciation Breakfast, sponsored by the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce. A second presentation was made December 5 by 2007 GIA President Rory Sanderson and 2008 GIA President-Elect Tom Deems at GIA's December luncheon, which followed a Georgia Manufacturers' Roundtable meeting hosted by Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle.

GIA created the Industry Champion Awards as an annual recognition of diligence in championing the advancement of industry in Georgia and to express GIA members’ appreciation for going the extra mile for Georgia industry, according to association President Rory Sanderson. Since 1993, GIA has represented over 100 Georgia companies and 82,000 employees, promoting the value of the manufacturing industry to our state.

“While there were many individuals who made admirable contributions in support of Georgia industry over the past year, two stood out for their longstanding support of industry’s cause,” Sanderson said. “It is my distinct pleasure to announce the Executive Committee’s selection of Senator Tim Golden of Valdosta and Representative Jeff Lewis (R-Cartersville) as recipients of GIA’s first Industry Champion Awards.”

During the 2007 legislative session, Golden sponsored an industry-supported initiative, SB 96, to clarify and improve Georgia's “Drug-free Workplace Laws.” Senator Golden has been a longtime supporter of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber and other business organizations' efforts to repeal Georgia’s harmful and unique “energy tax” on manufacturers.

“I am very honored and pleased to have been chosen to receive this award,” said Senator Golden, “It has been a pleasure working with the leadership of GIA promoting and passing legislation of importance to the manufacturing sector of Georgia. Manufacturing is still the heart of our state’s economy, and I look forward to continuing helping industry by strengthening and expanding our manufacturing base throughout Georgia.”

Golden, serving his fifth term in the Senate, represents Georgia’s 8th District, including Brooks and Lowndes counties and parts of Cook and Thomas counties. He is secretary of the Senate Appropriations Committee and also serves on the Finance, Insurance & Labor, Higher Education, and Government Oversight committees. He is chairman of the Senate Democratic Caucus.

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