VALDOSTA — The Southern Georgia Black Chambers orchestrated the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Fin & Feathers Restaurant, with the help of general manager Anthony Tong, at the Valdosta Mall on Saturday, February 3. The event marked the continuation of the culinary journey crafted by husband and wife owners Damon Johnson and Ayanna Johnson.

Present at the ceremony were Georgia District 177 Rep. Dexter Sharper and Valdosta City Manager Richard Hardy. Sharper expressed his enthusiasm for the restaurant and the owners’ work in the community, stating, “I see the work that they’re trying to do in this community, and I just feel great about them being here and there’s more to come.”

Hardy shared his support for Fin & Feathers being welcomed into the community. “We always look forward for a new business to come into the city and get established,” he said. “It gives our citizens a destination, a place to go. So, very excited with them being in the community.”

Damon Johnson, owner of Fin & Feathers, voiced his excitement, saying, “I love the restaurant industry. I still love it to this day. I’m a real owner/operator. I know the ins and outs of the restaurant business so I’m here to help and help my people grow, and that’s what it’s about.”

The Southern Georgia Black Chambers showed strong support for the Johnsons’ venture. Chamber President/CEO DeWayne Johnston highlighted the significance of such businesses, saying, “Our Chamber is proud to support and showcase businesses like Fin & Feathers Restaurant. The investments that Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are making within our community contribute to the vitality of our local economy and the legislative agenda of the Georgia Coalition of Black Chambers for safe and economically viable communities.”

Several Southern Georgia Black Chambers board members were in attendance to celebrate the restaurant’s ribbon-cutting. SGBC Board member, and owner of Bright Start Preschool & Learning Center, Shelbra McKnight remarked, “I think it’s an exciting time. And as a fellow business owner, it’s always a pleasure to be able to support new business owners. And I wish them luck and success.”

For more information about Fin & Feathers Restaurant, visit www.finandfeathersrestaurants.com.

For more information about how to join the Southern Georgia Black Chambers for exposure opportunities, such as ribbon cuttings like this one, visit www.sgablackchambers.org.