Two important events are upcoming this week, both affiliated with the Pike County Chamber of Commerce.

First, on Tuesday, U.S. Rep. Bobby Bright, D-Ala., will be the keynote speaker at an 8 a.m. breakfast for Chamber members at the Troy Country Club. Tickets for the event are $10, and it is open only to Chamber members.

Bright is scheduled to give members some candid insight into the pressing national issues – from President Obama’s plans to the economy to what he sees as challenges and opportunities ahead for small businesses. Also, as a new congressman, Bright will have the opportunity to answer directly to the voters in his district and talk with them about this votes so far in office.

At 6 p.m. Thursday, former Alabama football player and NFL running back Siran Stacy will bring his inspirational story of tragedy and faith to Pike County. The event is coordinated by the Pike County Young Professionals (an organization sponsored by the Chamber), is offered free of charge to the public and will take place at Sartain Hall on the Troy University campus.

Stacy, who was a prominent athlete in the 1980s, was in a tragic accident in November 2007 that killed his wife and four of his children. His journey through depression, anger and even a shaken faith and led Stacy back to a stronger faith and before audiences across the United States, where he shares his story today. The event, while free, does require a ticket for admission. Tickets are available at any Pike County financial institution; The Messenger; Troy Cable; and the Chamber of Commerce.

The Siran Stacy event is sponsored by First National Bank with Support from Troy University and is a presentation of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce.

We urge you to mark your calendars now for both of these worthwhile events.