The Richmond Hill-Bryan County Chamber of Commerce will host its annual meeting and banquet at 6 p.m. Thursday at the Richmond Hill City Center featuring 1st District Congressman Jack Kingston, R-Ga., as the keynote speaker.

“Throughout his public service, both at the state and national levels, Congressman Kingston has fought to lower taxes, balance the budget and reduce government regulations,” said chamber Executive Director Brianne Yontz.

She noted that Kingston is a member of the House Appropriations Committee, which is responsible for deciding how the federal budget is spent and also serves on the Defense Subcommittee, which oversees all military-based funding.

“With the 1st District home to Moody AFB, Fort Stewart, Hunter Army Airfield and Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Congressman Kingston has a special interest in America’s defense abilities,” she said.

Also during the banquet, Business of the Year and Ambassador of the Year awards will be presented. The Chamber’s 2011 Board of Directors will be recognized and 2012 Board of Directors will be introduced.

Tickets are $25 for members and $35 for future members.

For more information, visit www.RHBCchamber.org or contact Brianne M. Yontz at 756-3444 or byontz@rhbcchamber.org.