Taxes, regulations, international affairs and state competitiveness where all issues addressed by U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson on Wednesday at a lunch sponsored by CertusBank and co-hosted by the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber and Rotary Club of Valdosta.

There wasn’t an empty seat as nearly 200 area leaders came out to hear Isakson provide an update on the latest developments on Capitol Hill.

The Senator noted the recent incident of Valdostan Jeff Worn being jailed in India for forgotten hunting ammunition in his luggage. With the help of Sen. Isakson and Chambliss, Worn was released on bail. Isakson encouraged citizens to reach out to their elected officials, “If there is a service we can offer, just call.”

Isakson stated that the number one job on his and Chambliss’ agenda is deepening and widening of the Savannah Port. The port currently provides 195,000 indirect and direct jobs. In order for Georgia to stay competitive, it must be able to accommodate the new, larger vessels.

The Senator praised the Chamber’s efforts in providing him and other elected officials with top concerns of the area over the years.

Isakson closed by promising to help create a more business friendly environment. “When you shackle free enterprise, you shackle America,” stated Isakson.