MADISON – Residents can take a bus trip to the state capital with a local entourage and meet state leaders and the governor.

Madison Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce, has opened registration for its inaugural trip to Montgomery on March 5-6 to engage with influential leaders in state government and join meetings aimed at advancing the chambers’ initiatives.

This joint excursion will include members of Madison and Huntsville’s chambers. Participants can network with key figures throughout both communities, according to a release from Madison Chamber of Commerce.

In Montgomery, the group will meet with Gov. Kay Ivey and leaders in the Alabama State Legislature. The two-day trip to Montgomery involves an overnight stay. Residents can drive themselves or take the bus.

Buses will leave from the Huntsville chamber on March 5 at 1 p.m. and travel to the Renaissance Hotel in Montgomery for a reception honoring leaders in state government. On March 6, the group will depart Montgomery after lunch and arrive in Huntsville at approximately 5 p.m.

The early-bird registration fee of $475 will be available through Feb. 4. The fee after Feb. 4 will be $525. To attend the reception only, the fee will be $100. Registration closes on Feb. 22.

Madison Chamber of Commerce members will register on the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber’s website at hsvchamber.org for “NON-MEMBER” status. On the “Events” dropdown menu, click “Upcoming Events” and scroll down to the “2024 Montgomery Trip” section and click “Register.” Use the code “2024MTE” to receive member pricing.

Registration fees cover transportation on tour buses. Madison Chamber of Commerce’s staff will distribute “Madison Car Snacks” for bus travelers’ hunger pangs. Businesses can sponsor snacks by emailing marketing@madisonalchamber.com.

Members from both chambers are responsible for booking hotel accommodations. Participants can choose the Huntsville chamber’s room block at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel; click the link on the trip’s webpage, or call 334-481-5000. Deadline for room reservation is Feb. 11.

Other hotels in the vicinity include SpringHill Suites, DoubleTree by Hilton, Hampton Inn & Suites and Embassy Suites by Hilton.

Lockheed Martin is Event Sponsor, and Raytheon is Presenting Sponsor.

Gold sponsors are The Boeing Company, GTEC, Port of Huntsville and the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Silver Sponsors are Calhoun Community College, Davidson Technologies, Drake State Community & Technical College, First Horizon, PFM Financial Advisors LLC, Summit 7 Systems, TTL Inc. and Tennessee Valley Authority or TVA.

“Don’t miss out on this outstanding networking opportunity that will help you stay informed about our state’s pivotal issues,” Michelle Epling said. Epling is Executive Director of Madison Chamber of Commerce.