In the News
Global Atlanta collum by al hodge: Colombia Ripe with opportunity, ambassador says ahead of visit to georgia
Several weeks ago I was in Washington DC with the Society of International Business Fellows and among substantive programs, we visited the Colombian Embassy. The Highlight of that visit? Ambassador Francisco Santos Calderón, who is a former Vice President of Colombia. The Ambassador is engaging, witty and ready to share news and perspectives about our two countries.
Global Atlanta Column by Al Hodge: New Japanese Consul General Arrives; Trade agreement news; southeast us japan conference
First in a series of columns for global atlanta by al hodge
For over two decades, Global Atlanta has been devoted to tracking Atlanta’s rise as an international hub. Through personal, in-depth reporting, Global Atlanta seeks to help local readers connect to a global economy.
I’m excited to share that I will be contributing a regular column for Global Atlanta using my more than four-decade perspective as an economic developer. My series for this outlet will focus on fostering trade, recruiting foreign investment and how Georgia is more effectively engaging with worldwide partners.
The first column focuses on Georgia’s unique relationship with Japan. Let me know what you think!
As I write this introduction, I am receiving news that President Trump and Prime Minister Abe may be moving significantly forward toward a new trade agreement. This will likely be the context for the next column as we welcome the new Consul General to Georgia.
Hodge elected chair of the japan america society of georgia
I am honored to be elected Chair of the Japan America Society of Georgia’s Board of Directors.
I am walking in the giant footsteps of the major corporate and professional leaders who have preceded me in this role.
It is more important than ever that we strengthen personal and business relationships with our Japanese friends. It is significant that a recent JETRO survey has concluded that 54% of those surveyed have plans to expand in the United States.
I look forward to working with the Consul General, organization members, and our great staff, led by Yoshi Domoto.
We will see you soon at Japanfest and SEUS Japan!
Georgia-Kai “On My Mind” newsletter
Al was honored to be invited to participate in the Japan Foundation GEN-J program. Among the highlights was seeing longtime friends, making new ones and learning about current issues and projections. He is truly grateful to friends near and far for this incredible experience. His column about the trip was published in the Georgia-Kai “On My Mind” newsletter, by Georgia Department of Economic Development’s highly respected Yumiko Nakazono. It keeps Japanese and Georgia executives and others up to date with mutual interests. The English version of the column is on pages 2 and 3
Hodge to retire as head of Rome Floyd Chamber
From Rome News-Tribune – The Rome Floyd Chamber will soon be looking for a new leader with Al Hodge announcing his retirement as President and CEO. “We are at a good place,” Hodge said of the current situation at the chamber, adding that with re-branding and renovations complete “It’s a good time to step aside.”
Al Hodge announces retirement from Rome Floyd Chamber
From Hometown Headlines – Al Hodge, the president and chief executive officer of the Rome Floyd Chamber, announces his retirement, giving the business group six months to find a replacement. That is not an envious mission for the chamber’s executive board because Hodge will be very tough to replace.
Honoring the legacy of Al Hodge at the Rome-Floyd Chamber of Commerce
From David Guldenschuh – On Thursday night, January 24, hundreds of Romans will gather at the Rome Floyd Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting to honor Al Hodge, who recently announced his retirement as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber after more than 21 years of honorable service to this community.
I knew this day would come eventually.
From Alison Smith – So sad for our community but could not be happier for my mentor Al Hodge. I would not be the person I am today professionally or personally without his influence on my life. He pushed me, challenged me, and encouraged me.