I had the privilege to attend and speak on behalf of Angelina Land and related entities at a recent meeting held with the new District Director of the Corps of Engineers regarding a proposed new port facility for the City of Vidalia.

More than 60 people came in support of the port including industry leaders, local elected officials and civic leaders in the community, bankers, and former representatives to the State Legislature.

The attendees came as a result of Mayor Hyram Copeland’s commitment to bringing more industry and jobs to Vidalia.

When I first met the mayor several years ago regarding opportunities in Vidalia, his first statement to me was about his goal to create jobs and opportunities for the citizens of Vidalia.

Not many towns have a mayor with the same stature and respect in both Baton Rouge and Washington as Mayor Copeland and this is a proven fact based on his ability to get the job done for the City of Vidalia.

Lee Bean, who is out after surgery, was one of the visionaries along with the mayor that saw a need for the port facility.

All of us at Angelina hope and pray for Lee’s speedy recovery. I am sure Lee would join me in a salute to Copeland, for the fine job he is doing.

Tommy Ferrara

Regional Area Representative

Halderman Farm Management