Secretary of State Brian Kemp will be the keynote speaker at this year's annual meeting of the Covington/Newton County Chamber of Commerce at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at DeKalb Technical College's 8100 Bob Williams Parkway location.

"The chamber is excited to have Brain Kemp come and speak for his local insight into our state economy and what the forecast of the future might look like," said Chamber President Hunter Hall in a voice mail. "And we're excited to bring his experience and expertise to help us navigate 2011 and build strong bonds at the state level."

The event will highlight the accomplishments of the chamber in 2010, acknowledge the retiring board of directors and present the winners of the Spirit of Excellence Award, Small Business of the Year Award and prestigious R.O. Arnold Award, given for lifetime community service.

Tickets cost $55 per person and can be purchased at the chamber, 2101 Clark St., Covington, or by calling (770) 786-7510.