A LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
COMMUNITY PHOTOS
On behalf of the Butts County Chamber of Commerce, I would like to thank you for your investment in our community. During the past year, the Chamber has continued to help promote business and economic development in Butts County. I want to encourage you to remain active in our community and in the BCCOC.
Our county is in a dynamic location for some major economic growth. As business development continues at the interstate exits 201 and 205, we can look forward to positive changes that will affect our community. Local high school and college graduates will not need to look for good paying jobs in places like Macon or Atlanta, because they will be created right here. We can look forward to jobs in construction, engineering, industrial maintenance, healthcare, manufacturing, human resources professionals, robotics, CDL drivers, and much more. Furthermore, education and training can be accomplished close to home. For those wanting a traditional college degree, you may choose to attend Gordon State College, Mercer University, or other college or university within a reasonable commute. For those who want to pursue a high demand career at little to no cost, you can accomplish this through the HOPE Grant program at Southern Crescent Technical College here in Jackson.
As the saying goes, “A rising tide lifts all boats.” The impact of major economic growth will have a direct impact on our local economy. Dollars spent by those coming to do business here will positively impact on our local schools and local government. Smaller retail businesses and restaurants can benefit from this growth as well.
If your business or entity is not a member of our Chamber of Commerce, we would encourage you to join us and find that becoming a Chamber is of great value. We are an active chamber that seeks to advance its members’ growth and prosperity and to provide increased opportunities and value for its members. Membership information may be found on our website at www. buttschamber.com .
We are excited to present the 2024 Chamber Magazine, and let it serve as a reflection of our vibrant community. We hope citizens and visitors alike will appreciate what Butts County has to offer as the Outdoor Capital of Georgia and will visit our parks and other attractions often.
Sincerely,
Lisa Weaver Durden
LISA W. DURDEN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
CITY LEADERSHIP
CITY OF JACKSON
Phone: 770-775-7535
www.cityofjackson.com
Mayor: Carlos Duffey
City Council:
Theodore Patterson
Lewis Sims
Ricky Johnson, Jr. Don Cook
Jeanette Riley
CITY OF FLOVILLA
Phone: 770-775-5661
www.cityofflovilla.org
Mayor: Beth Burns
City Council: Charlie Fish
Jacqueline Grier
James Hosford
Willie Morgan
Catherine Watson
SHERIFF
Gary Long
835 Ernest Biles Dr. Jackson, GA 30233
Phone: 770-775-8216
Emergencies: Dial 911
TAX COMMISSIONER
Nancy J. Washington Phone: 771-775-8206
CORONER OFFICE
Lacey Evans Prue Phone: 770-775-7657
STATE GOVERNMENT
Governor: Brian P. Kemp 203 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 404-656-1176 www.gov.georgia.gov
Lt. Governor: Burt Jones 240 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 404-656-5030 www.ltgov.georgia.gov
CITY OF JENKINSBURG
Phone: 770-775-4850
www.cityofjenkinsburg.com
Mayor: Eddie Ford
City Council: Brent Eberspacher
Joye England
Gary Roberts
Gary Brown
Jason Watts, Mayor Pro-tem
BUTTS COUNTY LEADERSHIP
Phone: 770-775-8200
www.buttscountyga.com
Co. Manager: Brad Johnson
Commissioners: Russ Crumbley, Chair
Ken Rivers
Robert Henderson
Joe Brown
J. Keith Douglas
BUTTS COUNTY COURTS:
Butts Superior Court
Clerk: Morgan V. Ward Phone: 770-775-8215
Superior Court Judges: Hon. William A. Fears
Hon. Tommy Wilson
Butts County Probate Court
Judge: Elizabeth Biles Phone: 770-775-8204
Butts County Magistrate Court Judge: Rebecca J. Pitts Phone: 770-775-8220
Butts County Juvenile Court
Judge: Sharon Sullivan Phone: 678-774-8595 30 24 26 31
State Senator: Rick Williams, District 25 1670 N. Jefferson St. Milledgeville, GA 31061 rick.williams@senate.ga.gov
State Representative: Clint Crowe, Dist. 118 612-A CLOB Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 404-656-0325
BUTTS ELECTED OFFICIALS
U.S. Senators Jon Osoff 131 Russell State Office Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20510 Phone: 202-224-3521
Raphael Warnock Dirksen State Office Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20510 Phone: 770-694-7828
U.S. House Representative Mike Collins, 10th District 1223 Longworth House Office Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20515 Phone: 202-225-4101
A MESSAGE FROM MAYOR OF JACKSON, CARLOS DUFFEY COMMUNITY PHOTOS
Jackson is a community filled with friends and family from all walks of life. I have watched the spirit of our community grow as we have taken steps to revitalize our downtown to make it a wholesome place to gather and experience the two hundred years of our rich history. We have tourists who visit worldwide to see where Netflix’s number-one series, Stranger Things is filmed. Jackson hosts thousands of bikers, hikers, and avid trail walkers at Dauset Trails and our Creeks Trails.
As the mayor of The City of Jackson, I am proud of our city and the people who call Jackson home. I hope you and your family visit us during your 2024 travels.
We Are Jackson!
Jackson. A great little community where people say hello because they want to welcome you. A place where local sports draw the town together on Red Devil Hill and the Jackson Sports C omplex. A historic square with cute shops, delicious
honor Veterans, help their neighbors during the storm, and remember that our histor y and the people who came before are important to our future and the generation who will come next. C ome to Jackson. B e a part. We Are Jackson.
EMBRACING COMMUNITY SPIRIT: A LOOK AT FLOVILLA’S CHARMING EVENTS CALENDAR
BY BETH BURNS, MAYOR, CITY OF FLOVILLA
Nestled in the heart of Butts County, Georgia, lies the quaint town of Flovilla, where the essence of small-town charm thrives. With a population of approximately 650 residents, Flovilla boasts a tight-knit community where neighbors are more like family. Stepping into Flovilla feels like entering a time capsule, where the pace is slower, and the sense of community is profound.
One of the standout features of Flovilla is its events calendar, which offers something for everyone throughout the year. From festive celebrations to charitable endeavors, these events not only bring the community together but also showcase the town's rich culture.
**Arbor Day - February 16, 2024**
Kicking off the year with a green initiative, Flovilla celebrates Arbor Day on February 16th. Residents come together to plant trees, promoting environmental consciousness and beautifying their beloved town. It's a day where individuals of all ages roll up their sleeves and contribute to the town's natural landscape.
**Easter Egg Hunt - March 30, 2024**
As spring blooms across Flovilla, families eagerly anticipate the annual Easter Egg Hunt on March 30th. Children squeal with delight as they scour the designated area, hunting for colorful eggs hidden amidst the town's scenic backdrop. It's a joyous occasion that brings smiles to both young and old alike.
**Flovilla Day - April 27, 2024**
Marking a significant milestone in Flovilla's history, Flovilla Day on April 27th is a celebration of community pride and heritage. The streets come alive with bustling activity as locals showcase their talents, crafts, and culinary delights. It's a day filled with music, laughter, and camaraderie, reminding everyone of the unique spirit that defines Flovilla.
**Flo Who? Flo What? Flovilla Benefit 5k - April 27, 2024 (subject to change)**
On the same day as Flovilla Day, the town hosts the Flo Who? Flo What? Flovilla Benefit 5k, a testament to Flovilla's commitment to giving back. Runners lace up their sneakers and hit the pavement, participating in a race that supports various charitable causes within the community. It's a wonderful opportunity to combine fitness with generosity, all while strengthening the bonds that tie Flovilla together.
**Halloween on Heard - October 26, 2024**
As autumn paints Flovilla in hues of orange and gold, Halloween on Heard becomes the talk of the town on October 26th. From
spooky decorations to creative costumes, residents go all out to celebrate this beloved holiday. Trick-or-treating brings laughter to the streets, and showcases the town's creativity in full force.
**Community Christmas Party - December 12, 2024**
Wrapping up the year with festive cheer, Flovilla hosts its Community Christmas Party on December 12th. The town square transforms into a winter wonderland, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Families gather for the true story of Christmas, caroling, hot cocoa, and a visit from Santa Claus himself. It's a magical evening that captures the true spirit of the holiday season.
In conclusion, Flovilla's events calendar is a reflection of the town's vibrant spirit and strong sense of community. Whether it's planting trees on Arbor Day or spreading holiday cheer at the Community Christmas Party, each event fosters a deeper connection among residents while celebrating the unique charm of this small Southern town. So mark your calendars and join in the festivities – in Flovilla, there's always something to celebrate!
MAYOR BETH BURNS
BUTTS COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY SPOTLIGHT: BLIND ANDY JENKINS, JENKINSBURG’S FAMOUS SON
BY CHERYL HILDERBRAND
History is essentially stories about people and their enterprises.
In 1885, William Jenkins married and moved 5 miles North of Jackson. By deeding a section of his land to the East Tennessee Railroad, William Jenkins brought commerce to his community. A thriving village was born.
And the town thrives today. Jenkinsburg is home to LKQ and Bunn and Jenco Golf Carts. Citizens of Jenkinsburg can boast a Marathon, a Dollar General, and a nearby Subway. Even better, they enjoy a fresh vegetable stand in season.
A visitor driving along Highway 42, might think that they are in just another Middle Georgia small town.
But Jenkinsburg is a special small town. For many reasons.
First, those who designed the residential area named the streets Cherry, Iris, Azalea, Oak, and Maple. It is a lovely place to live. There is a playground in the center of town.
Second, perhaps is that Jenkinsburg and the Jenkins family nurtured Andrew Jenkins, one of the most popular singer songwriters of the twenties and thirties.
Blind Andy, as he was called, was born into the Jenkins family in 1885. He was partially blind from an early age as the result of a medical mistake. After another accident, he became totally blind. Andy was educated at home and licensed to preach by the age of 22.
But his “God gift,” as he called it, was music. He could play by ear almost any instrument he came across. He also developed a real talent as a songwriter.
Jenkins penned over 800 musical compositions, most of them gospel songs. They were extremely popular in the 1920s and 30s. His most famous song, “God Put a Rainbow in the Cloud” (1931), was recorded by Kitty Wells and Mahalia Jackson among others. Musicologists and music historians consider him a legend and a father of the industry.
In 1922, when WSB first began broadcasting, it quickly became the tune-to station for gospel and country music. At this time Atlanta, not Nashville, was the center of the country/gospel industry. Atlanta is where the fiddling contests and gospel singings were held. Groups and individuals came down out of the mountains to participate. And at this time most, if not all, of the recording studios were in Atlanta.
Andy had his own gospel show on WSB from 1922 until mid1935. His second wife had two musical daughters and the four of them became The Jenkins Family. People tuned in to Andy’s
show to hear The Jenkins Family.
According to Wayne Daniel, in the New Georgia Encyclopedia, “Their repertoire included not only gospel music, but also folk, popular, and light classical fare.” Andy was very good at contemporary events or “news” ballads, and if something were going on in the world, it appears that Andy wrote a song about it. The sheet music sold, and if he recorded it, the records sold.
Daniel says that Jenkins’s best known event song (still studied by Folk music scholars today) is “The Death of Floyd Collins.” Floyd Collins died while exploring a cave. Andy also wrote about train wrecks, bank robberies, and murders.
Ballads have served story-telling purposes since pre-history: heroes, scandals, and tragedies are preserved in folk ballads and epic poems. Sheet music and the words of an event allowed families to learn about the sensational and tragic events of the time. Ballads were the Tabloids and Entertainment shows of the era.
Andy’s show on WSB also made him popular as a preacher, and he was constantly leading revivals all over the state. He had his own churches during this time as well.
Blind Andy was a man who brought pleasure and peace to many people. His work is still recognized today. Jenkinsburg residents could let travelers know how special their town is by amending their city limits signs to read: “Entering Jenkinsburg, Birthplace of the Reverend Andy Jenkins.”
Jenkinsburg is a fine city already, but it is even finer when one honors and acknowledges the history of the place.
For many years Jenkinsburg was well known as the town where the Childs Family operated a Hemerocallis hybridizing center. People from all over the world came to the center. The Childs were trying to create a black daylily.
Jenkinsburg is also famous for welcoming the first Southern woman to graduate from the Medical College in Atlanta. Dr. Tommy Barron Aiken was Georgia’s first female doctor to serve in a rural area (1893). She chose to practice in Jenkinsburg. She chose to serve in Blind Andy’s hometown. She rode about the countryside in her sulky, seeing to her patients in northern Butts County.
Today, Jenkinsburg boasts a strong city government under Mayor Eddie Ford, who works to keep the little town clean, beautiful, solvent and growing.
But any history of the sweet little town of Jenkinsburg is not complete without a mention of Blind Andy.
If you want to read more about Blind Andy Jenkins, The New Georgia Encyclopedia can be searched at www.georgiaencyclopedia. org. And the Jackson-Butts County Library has a copy of Pickin’ on Peachtree: A History of Country Music in Atlanta, Georgia, by Wayne W. Daniel.
The Butts County Historical Society (BCHS) is dedicated to the preservation of our community’s history, historic sites, and cultural heritage. Documentation and education are key components in the preservation efforts of BCHS.
BCHS maintain informational displays at the Indian Spring Hotel, The Butts County Visitors Center, the Flovilla Schoolhouse, and at the Indian Springs Baptist Church.
BCHS meets at the Flovilla School House on the 4th Thursday of the following months: January, February, March, April, May, June, September and October. Meetings begin at 6 PM. All meetings are open to the public.
For more information visit https://buttscountyhistoricalsocietyinc. org/ or https://www.facebook.com/p/Butts-County-HistoricalSociety-Inc-100064941930078/
ACCOUNTANTS / TAX PREPARATION
Faith Works Business Solutions, LLC
236 Brookwood Ave Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 582-8536 www.fwbstaxpros.com
Haisten & Johnston, PC 333 South Harkness Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-4881 www.haistenandjohnston. com
Tricia Armistead, CPA, PC 311 Forsyth St Monticello, GA 31064 (706) 468-2544 www.facebook.com/ TriciaArmistedCpa/
ALCOHOL SALES
Jackson Bottle Shoppe 125 Macon Avenue Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 957-1546
APARTMENTS / TOWNHOMES
Ken Edwards Enterprises, Inc
2250 North Druid Hills Road, NE Ste 278 Atlanta, GA 30329 (678) 263-3884 www.kencoapartments.com
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN & BUILDING
Capshaw Development Company, LLC 450 Racetrack Road McDonough, GA 30252 (678) 782-5200 www.capshawhomes.com
Keck + Wood 3090 Premiere Parkway Duluth, GA 30097 (678) 583-5960 www.dwsdgi.com
ARTISTS
Eloise Shack Art 2543 High Falls Rd Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 601-7602 www.Eloiseshackart.com
ASSISTED LIVING
DreamCatcher Senior Community
286 Four Points Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-2794
2024 CHAMBER MEMBERS
ATTORNEYS
Russell W. Pope, Sr. LLC
Attorneys 169 Dempsey Ave Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-6200 www.facebook.com/ onlydisability
Smith, Welch, Webb & White, LLC
Attorneys 117 Brookwood Avenue Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-3188 www.smithwelchlaw.com
LAW OFFICE OF TAMARA ANSARI Legal Services 30 Second Street Jackson, GA 30233 (844) 945-5488 www.treatfolksright.com
AUTO REPAIR
Jackson Collision Center Auto Repair 226 Mitchell Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-1400 www.jacksoncollision.com
AUTOMOBILE PARTS
LKQ Southeast, Inc 2401 Highway 42 North Jenkinsburg, GA 30234 (770) 775-2700
AUTOMOBILE / TRUCK SALES
Countryside Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram of Jackson 201 Glade Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-3434 www.countrysidecdjr.com
Gage and Julia Lewis PO Box 74 Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 773-5211 hlcp7513.wixsite.com/ harrylewischrysler/
Georgia Motor Trucks, Inc 3068 Hwy 36 West Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-7772 www.georgiatrucks.com
Peterbilt of Atlanta
172 Van Mar Boulevard Jackson, GA 30233 (404) 592-9980 www.peteatlanta.com
BANKS
Ameris Bank
210 South Oak Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-8300
www.amerisbank.com
Delta Community Credit Union
3250 Riverwood Parkway Atlanta, GA 30339 (800) 544-3328
www.deltacommunitycu. com/home.aspx
The Southern Credit Union
430 East Lanier Avenue Fayetteville, GA 30265 (770) 719-1111
www.southernonline.org
United Bank
150 Covington Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 504-7005
www.accessunited.com/
BUILDER / CONTRACTOR
Atlanta Interior Glazing, Inc
Builder / Contractor
9760 Feagin Road, #C Jonesboro, GA 30236 (678) 834-7806
R & B Metal Structures
Builder / Contractor 979 Highway 42 South Jackson, GA 30233 (866) 238-3501 www.randbmetalstructures. com
Southern Construction
Builder / Contractor 148 Brookwood Ave Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 609-9745 www. Southernconstructionga.com
BUSINESS SERVICES
Rapid Response Business Solutions Business Services 401 Westpark Ct Suite 200 Peachtree City, GA 30269 (678) 952-0141 www.rapidresponsebizsolu. com
Tri-Copy Office Equipment, Inc.
725 Lanier Avenue West Fayetteville, GA 30214 (770) 716-7558 www.tri-copy.com
CAR WASH / DETAILING
Big Peach Car Wash Car Wash / Detailing 583 E 3rd St Jackson, GA 30233 (470) 251-5317 www.bigpeachcarwash.com
CHILDCARE
Beverly’s Nursery & Day Care Center, Inc 315 Covington Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-4641
CHIROPRACTORS
Heartland Clinic Of Chiropractic 972 College St. Monticello, GA 31604 (706) 468-6500 www. Heartlandclinicofchiropractic. weebly.com
CHURCHES
Indian Springs Holiness Camp Meeting 1518 Hwy 42 Flovilla, GA 30216 (770) 775-5721 www. indianspringscampmeeting. org
Jackson First Baptist Church 1227 West 3rd Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-3102 www.jacksonfbc.com
Jackson Presbyterian Church 240 N Oak Street Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 920-8986 www. jacksonpresbyterianchurch. com/
Jackson United Methodist Church 409 East 3rd Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-7238 www.jacksonumc.com
Liberty Baptist Church Churches 3043 High Falls Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 710-2221
Rock Springs Congregational Methodist Church 219 Rock Springs Rd Milner, GA 30257 (770) 229-8663 www.RockSpringsonline.com
Towaliga Baptist Church 160 Towaliga Church Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-2036 www.tbcjackson.com
Watermark Church 1440 Brookwood Avenue Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 314-7322
www.watermarklive.com
CIVIC / COMMUNITY / NON-PROFIT
Butts County Extension/4-H 576 Ernest Biles Drive Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-8209 www.extension.uga.edu/ county-offices/butts.html
Butts County Historical Society Jackson, GA 30233 www. buttscountyhistoricalsocietyinc. org/
Butts County Life Enrichment Team 151 North Mimosa Lane P.O. Box 976 Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-5829
www.butts.gafcp.org
Butts County Pregnancy Center 153 Dempsey Avenue Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-5116 www. buttsctypregnancycenter. com/about-us/
Flint River Council, Boy Scouts of America 1361 ZEBULON RD GRIFFIN, GA 30224 (770) 227-4556 www.flintrivercouncil.org
Greater Butts County Lions Club Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 504-9854
Henderson School Alumni Association Trust , Inc 210 Jim McMichael Road Jackson, GA 30233 (404) 754-3073 www. hendersonschoolalumnitrust. org
Jackson Butts County Council for the Arts 25 3rd Street Suite 102 Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 298-1034 www.jacksonartscouncil.com
Jackson Butts County NAACP P.O. Box 1746 Jackson, GA 30233
Jackson-Butts County Rotary Club PO Box 1251 Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 504-7005 www.rotary6900.org/site/ contact/37
Klassy Kats of Butts County PO Box 11 Jackson, GA 30233 (404) 626-1598
www.klassykatsofbc.com
Love Thy Neighbor 114 Feather Lane Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 584-3846
New Dimensions Prayer Tower, Walking Trail, and Retreat, Inc. 350 Brooks Rd. Jackson, GA 30233 (404) 716-8248
Nick’s New Beginnings, Inc. 2146 Highway 42 South, Suite 3 Flovilla, GA 30216 (702) 378-0677 www.nicksnnb.org
The Council on Alcohol and Drugs 270 Peachtree St. NW Suite 2200 Atlanta, GA 30303 (770) 990-5957 www.livedrugfree.org
The Salvation Army 178 N Benton Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-2940
www.salvationarmyusa.org/ usn/plugins/gdosCenterSear ch?query=30233&mode=que ry_3&limit=40
United Way McDonough, GA 30253 (678) 623-2869 www.unitedwayatlanta.org
Vote Butts 161 Deptula Rd Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 598-8937
CLEANING SERVICES/ JANITORIAL
Metro Atlanta Cleaning Solutions
Cleaning Services/Janitorial 290 Burg Road Jenkinsburg, GA 30234 (470) 473-3921 www.
MetroAtlantaCleaningSolutions. com
CLOTHING/SHOES
Lena Jane Clothing Co. 30 N Mulberry St Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 774-9615 www.shoplenajane.com
CONCRETE & GEO TECHNICAL ENGINEERING
L&D CONCRETE, LLC
320 CRESCENT DR FORSYTH, GA 31029 (470) 334-6214
Southern Readymix, LLC
Concrete & Geo technical Engineering
320 Walker Xing Locust Grove, GA 30248 (770) 914-9700 www.southernreadymix.com
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
Alan Cawthon, Inc 1829 Hwy 36 W Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-5446
www.acgrading.com/
Garbutt Construction Company
212 South Calhoun Street Dublin, GA 31021 (478) 272-4410 www.garbuttconstruction. com
H.E. Hodge Company Inc.
2393 Pendley Road, Suite 200 Cumming, GA 30041-6413 (770) 205-8312
www.hehodge.com
Lester Peek Siteworks 1068 Hwy 36 East Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-2019
Parrish Construction Group
221 Industrial Park Perry, GA 31069 (478) 987-5544 www.parrishconstruction. com
COUNSELING
Outrageous Love Foundation 151 N. Mimosa Ln Jackson , GA 30233 (678) 973-5584 www. outrageouslovefoundation. org
DANCE
Eleve Dance Studio 242 S. Mulberry St Jackson, GA 30233 (404) 693-0303 www.elevedancestudio.net
T & K Studios, LLC 160 North Mimosa Lane Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-1066 www.tkdancestudios.com
EDUCATION
Butts County School System
181 North Mulberry Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 504-2300 www.butts.k12.ga.us
Foothills Regional High School 717 S Harkness St Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 527-4554 www.foothillscharter.org
Gordon State College 419 College Drive Barnesville, GA 30204 (678) 359-5739 www.gordonstate.edu
Love & Jerry Road to Excellence Academy Daycare and Preschool 431 Brownlee Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-3900 www. jerryroadtoexcellenceacademy. com
Mercer University Education
160 Henry Parkway McDonough, GA 30253 (678) 547-6521 www.mercer.edu
Piano/Suzuki Violin Teacher. SAT/ACT/ Scholarship Tutor 444 Four Points Rd. Jackson, GA 30233 (404) 863-0029
Southern Crescent Technical College Foundation, Inc 501 Varsity Road Griffin, GA 30223 (770) 229-3466 www.sctech.edu
St George’s Episcopal School
103 Birch Street Milner, GA 30257 (770) 358-9432
UGA Small Business Development Center
4875 Riverside Drive, Suite 202 MACON, GA 31210 (478) 757-3609 www.georgiasbdc.org
University of Georgia Griffin Campus
1109 Experiment Street Flynt Building 203 Griffin, GA 30223 (770) 228-7263 www.griffin.uga.edu
ELECTRICIAN
Ayers Electric Company, Inc Electrician 12294 Hwy 36 Covington, GA 30014 (770) 787-1473
South Grove Electric Electrician 107 High Meadows Trl Jenkinsburg , GA 30234 (678) 793-1283
Southern Signs & Lighting Maintenance
Signs & Lighting
11 Virginia Lee Blvd Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 356-6398 www.lighting-service.com
Wallace Electric Company 163 Ernest Biles Drive Suite D Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 432-7210 www.wallaceelectric.com
ENTERTAINMENT
Fun Galaxy Jackson, Inc. 129 Stark Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 504-9949 www.fungalaxygeorgia.com
Jackson Escape Games LLC 12 Second St Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 774-8070 www.
JacksonGaEscapeGames. com
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Brothers Brush Control, Inc. 805 Stark Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 871-9623
EVENTS / RENTALS / OCCASIONS
Rental Solutions 124 W. 2nd St. Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-4646 www.rentalsolutionsga.com
Rivers Ranch, The 1959 Highway 42 North Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-1622 www.theriversranch.com
The Carmichael House 149 McDonough Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 827-5910 www.thecarmichaelhouse. com
Village at Indian Springs, The 1834 Highway 42 South Flovilla, GA 30216 (770) 775-5350 www. thevillageatindiansprings. com
FINANCIAL SERVICES
1st Franklin Financial Corporation 110 South Harkness Street, Ste D Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-0132 locations.1ffc.com/ga/ jackson/110-s.-harknessstreet.html
Country Financial 307 Second Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-7544
Edward Jones Investments
110 South Harkness Street, Ste B Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-4576 www.edwardjones.com
Larry Deraney - Raymond James Financial Services, Inc.
261 Brookwood Ave., Suite C Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-9930 www.raymondjames.com/ larryderaney
Security Finance and Tax 917 East 3rd Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-0955 www.securityfinance. com/locations/jacksonga-0674/?utm_ source=google&utm_ medium=organic&utm_
campaign=gmb
FITNESS & HEALTH
Rescue Fitness 2131 Hwy 42 North Jenkinsburg , GA 30234 (770) 775-5155 www.rescuefitness.net/
FLORISTS
Jackson Flower Shop 113 E. Second St Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-7222
www.jacksonflowershop.biz
FUEL
Jones Petroleum Grocery Stores 264 Alabama Blvd Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-2386
www.jonespetroleum.com
May & Carter Oil Company 109 Hanover Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-3277
www.mayandcarter.com
Pilot Flying J 2995 Hwy 36 West Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 504-9206
FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES
Jackson Monument Company 212 E College St Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-3916
Henderson Funeral Services, LLC 744 Brownlee Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 504-3151 www. hendersonfuneralservicesllc. com
SOUTHERN CRESCENT TECHNICAL COLLEGE, BUTTS CAMPUS
BY DR. IRVIN CLARK, PRESIDENT
Conveniently located just west of downtown Jackson, the Southern Crescent Technical College Butts County Center offers credit, non-credit, and Adult Education classes and serves as your local partner for workforce development in the community.
Southern Crescent Technical College is a public, accredited, two-year postsecondary institution that trains students in the latest technology through programs that are specifically designed to meet the needs of local business and industry. Southern Crescent Technical College now offers Industrial Systems Technology, Automated Manufacturing, Diesel Technology, Commercial Truck Driving and Nurse Aide -complete with a new lab- for college-credit at the SCTC Butts County Center with plans to add additional programs as the need arises.
SCTC’s Butts County Center has undergone recent renovations to further support the programs and community. These renovations include the addition of a Small Business Entrepreneurship Center designed to bridge the gap between education and entrepreneurship. This new creative space will foster innovation, stimulate entrepreneurial thinking, and support the growth of startup ventures while providing expertise, mentorship, and strategic guidance to students, faculty, and aspiring entrepreneurs.
In partnership with the Butts County Industrial Development Authority and the Butts County Chamber of Commerce, this center has an Advisory Committee made up of local business partners and will serve as a hub for new entrepreneurs within the SCTC community.
SCTC has demonstrated continuous support to our partners in Advanced Manufacturing in Butts and surrounding counties. The SCTC Butts Center is the home of a state-of-the-art mobile training lab that continues to assist both our credit and noncredit programs to train students in the highly technical and high-demand areas of Industrial Systems, Mechatronics, and Automated Manufacturing. Currently, 25 incumbent workers are taking Advanced Manufacturing classes, allowing SCTC to remain a viable source for workforce development. To continue the pipeline of qualified workers, SCTC has recently signed a new cohort of high school students into the Talent Strong Pre-Apprenticeship program. Through Dual Enrollment, these individuals are getting a jump start on their college education while training for their career.
SCTC President, Dr. Irvin Clark III said, “Southern Crescent Technical College is committed to excellence and is characterized by outstanding instruction, a comprehensive commitment to
state-of-the-industry training, innovative workforce development, and a close connection to the community. By offering career-focused education and constantly working to provide the most current, hands-on training, we are doing our part to help stimulate the economic growth and development of the Butts County community. As you can see, Southern Crescent Technical College is committed to enhancing the workforce for our business and industry partners in the communities we serve. As the College grows, we will continue to expand our educational programs, offerings, and facilities to provide students with enhanced opportunities for career success.”
Currently offering a multitude of programs in the areas of allied health, business, computers, film and television production, public safety, professional services, and technical and industrial training, Southern Crescent Technical College prepares today’s students for tomorrow’s workforce. From short certificate programs to diploma programs to associate degree programs, the College offers students the state-of-theart training needed to make a successful and swift transition into the workforce and help stimulate the economic growth and development of the local community. With a 99% job placement rate for recent graduates, it is easy to see the impact that SCTC is making on the local economy and in the lives of local citizens. Adult education, continuing education, and customized training opportunities are also available to provide appropriate education and training for students at every level.
Day, evening, weekend, and online classes are available for SCTC students to begin their career how, where and when it is convenient for them. All courses are easily transferred between SCTC locations and have the potential to transfer to other postsecondary institutions through established articulation agreements. In addition, eligible SCTC students may qualify for a multitude of financial aid opportunities including Georgia’s HOPE Grant and HOPE Career Grant which could pay a student’s entire tuition.
In addition, Adult Education Classes are offered at the SCTC Butts County Center daily during the day and evening. Experienced instructors are available to assist students through each step as they work to earn their high school equivalency or GED.
Find out what so many others have learned about the value and benefits of technical education. For more information on Southern Crescent Technical College or its offerings, please visit www.sctech.edu.
IMPROVING ECONOMY AND INDUSTRIAL GROWTH POTENTIAL BODE WELL FOR BUTTS COUNTY
BY BOB WHITE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOR THE BUTTS CO. DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Despite interest rate increases and inflationary concerns in 2023, the Development Authority of Butts County is optimistic about Buts County’s prospects for the future. “For a decade, Georgia has been recognized as the best place to do business in the U.S.,” according to Development Authority executive director Bob White, “and Butts County is poised to continue to benefit from our state’s strong business climate.”
One reason for Georgia’s and Butts County’s attractiveness for business is our strategic location in the heart of the fastgrowing Southeast and within two days by truck of 80 percent of the U.S. population. “We are truly in a global economy”, he adds, “and having the World’s busiest passenger airport – Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport – and Georgia’s fast-growing seaports in Savannah and Brunswick certainly have been major factors driving much of the growth.”
But another major factor has been Georgia’s emergence at the epicenter of the nation’s electric vehicle “e-mobility” revolution. Massive investments by electric vehicle manufacturers Rivian – which will be located within 40 miles of Butts County – and Hyundai in Bryan County near Savannah are among the largest investments in Georgia history, attracting countless other parts suppliers and related industries.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION…
In 2016, Dollar General announced plans for a new million square foot distribution center located immediately adjacent to Interstate 75 in Jackson. White noted that the Dollar General location put Butts County squarely in the crosshairs of site selectors, spurring interest from major developers. “Liberty Property Trust, a major national industrial developer, saw value in our strategic location”, White says, “and they purchased land near the Dollar General facility and built an 840,000 square foot speculative industrial building.”
In 2020, MasterBrand Cabinets – one of the country’s leading residential cabinet makers – selected Butts County and that large building as the location for a major new manufacturing center, and today MasterBrand employs more than 500 workers at its Jackson Plant. Also in 2020, a group of investors purchased more than 1200 acres located on the northeast quadrant of Interstate 75 and Georgia Highway 16 at Exit 205, rezoning the property for a major mixed-use development called River Park.
River Park quickly attracted the interest of other major real estate developers, beginning a spurt of speculative building construction including initially a 1,006,500 square foot building and another 725,000 square foot Class A industrial building in the business park, with other developments – including commercial and retail developments – planned or underway. And, in May 2022, Governor Brian Kemp announced that Procter & Gamble, one of the world’s premier brands, had selected a site in River
Park for a 1.7 million square foot Southeast Fulfillment Center that will employ more than 350 associates when it begins operation in early 2024. In addition to River Park, a number of other industrial developers have announced plans for new industrial developments that will add to the inventory of available industrial space in Butts County.
THE TIMES THEY ARE A CHANGING…
While Butts County’s strategic location – the closest in the Atlanta Metro to the Port of Savannah – and the availability of large available industrial spaces close to an interstate made the county especially attractive for distribution and fulfillment centers, the Development Authority says that other types of businesses –especially including manufacturing – are increasingly on their radar.
The combined and lingering effect of COVID 19, the subsequent global economic slowdown and the recent growth of international geopolitical conflicts have caused a disruption of supply chains, causing companies to re-evaluate the location of their manufacturing centers closer to their customers. Those strategies have resulted in a shift from distribution centers – at least for the near term – to the search for new manufacturing facilities. Added to the resurgence of manufacturing is the growth in artificial intelligence, or “AI”, driving a tremendous increase in the demand for new data centers.
But with the increase in the demand for these new facilities, there is an increased need for infrastructure improvements in order to accommodate this future growth, as well as a need to provide access to a workforce with the skillsets needed by these emerging industries, and executive director White notes that the Development Authority has been pleased by the commitment of our local leaders to make the necessary upgrades to the county’s infrastructure to accommodate the growth, and especially the commitments and investments made by our education partners.
“The Development Authority is working closely with the Butts County School System, the Griffin Region College and Career Academy and especially Southern Crescent Technical College which has made significant investment in a new Industrial Systems Technology mobile laboratory housed at the College’s Butts Center, as well as additional programming available to area businesses and residents at the Butts Center,” White noted.
ABOUT THE DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
The Development Authority of Butts County is one of two economic development authorities serving Butts County – the other being the Butts County Industrial Development Authority - that are charged with expanding the county’s tax base and employment opportunities for residents through the attraction of new businesses and investment, and the growth and expansion of existing industries. The board members of the development authorities are appointed by the Butts County Board of Commissioners, and the Butts County Industrial Development Authority meets quarterly on the second Friday in January, April, July and October, while the Development Authority of Butts County meets monthly on the second Friday of each month. Both authorities hold their meetings in the Historic Butts County Courthouse at 25 Third Street in downtown Jackson. All meetings are open to the public, and further information is available on the Development Authority website at www.buttscountyida.com.
Butts County, Georgia
PERFECT LOCATION
for advanced manufacturing, logistics and supply chain, healthcare, real estate and more!
TRAIL SEARCH
CIRCLE THINGS YOU MIGHT FIND ON A TRAIL IN BUTTS COUNTY:
Sherrell-Westbury Funeral Home
212 E College St Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-3916
www.sherrell-westburyfh. com
GOLF
Hickory Hill Golf Club
209 Biles Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-2433
GOVERNMENT
Butts County Administration
625 W Third St Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-8200
www.buttscountyga.com/
Butts County Democratic Party Committee
493 Clydes Way P. O. Box 502 Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 841-1217
Butts County District Attorney’s Office
625 West 3rd Street, Suite B Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 504-2407 www.towaligada.com/
Butts County Division of Family & Children Services (DFCS)
178 Ernest Biles Drive Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 504-2200
Butts County Republican Party PO Box 67 Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 849-9688
Butts County Sheriff’s Office
835 Ernest Biles Drive Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-8216
www.buttscountyso.com
Butts County Water & Sewer Authority
100 West 2nd Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-0042
www.buttswsa.com
City of Flovilla
308 Heard Street Flovilla, GA 30216 (770) 775-5661
www.flovilla.org
City of Jackson
134 South Oak Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-7535
www.cityofjacksonga.com
City of Jenkinsburg 211 Maple Drive Jenkinsburg, GA 30234 (770) 775-4850 www.cityofjenkinsburg.com
2024 CHAMBER MEMBERS
Development Authority of Butts County 25 Second Street, Ste 4 Jackson, Georgia 30233 (770) 775-4851 www.buttscountyida.com
Georgia Department of Labor 1514 Georgia Hwy 16 Griffin, GA 30224 (404) 817-6408
Georgia Diagnostic & Classification Prison 2978 HWY 36 West Prison BLVD Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 504-2000 www.dcor.state.ga.us/ Facilities/ga-diagnosticclass-prison
Rick Williams
290 Buttrill Road Jackson, GA 30233 (478) 457-5370 www. RickWilliamsforGeorgia.com
Towaliga CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates)
101 Commerce Place, Suite 3 Barnesville, GA 30204 (770) 358-5629 www.facebook.com/ towaligacasa
HAIR SALONS
Georgia Hair Solutions
348 S Mulberry Street Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 925-2952 www.georgiahairsolutions. com
Texture Salon & Boutique 326 W 2nd St. Jackson, GA 30233 1-770-504-9033 www. texturesalonandboutique. com
HARDWARE
Ace Hardware of Jackson/ Jones Hometown Hardware Inc 1083 E 3rd Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-7501 www.acehardware.com/ store-details/08034
Jackson True Value 124 N. Mulberry St Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-3000 www.TrueValue.com
John Oatley Builders
Hardware, Inc 1234 Zonoute Rd. NE Atlanta, GA 30306 (404) 876-2434
HEALTHCARE
Mulberry Drugs Inc
20 N MULBERRY ST JACKSON, GA 30233 (678) 712-3881
Moyes Pharmacy 227 S Mulberry St. jackson, GA 30233 (770) 957-5561
www.moyespharmacy.com
Pivotal Behavior ABA 308 Christian Ct Hampton, GA 30228 (470) 737-5755
www.pivotalbehavioraba. com
Sacred Journey Hospice
138 Peach Drive McDonough, GA 30253 (678) 583-0717
www.Sacredjourneyhospice. com
Traditions Health Hospice Medical/Nursing Care
794 McDonough Rd Suites 106 & 107 Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-0100
www.traditionshealth.com
Wellstar Sylvan Grove Hospital 1050 McDonough Road Jackson, GA 30233
www.wellstar.org/locations/ hospital/sylvan-grovehospital
Westbury Center of Jackson 922 McDonough Road Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 877-9616
www.westburyofjackson. com/
HEATING & AIR
Absolute Best Air 165 McDonough Parkway McDonough, GA 30253 (404) 849-1938
www.absolutebestair.com
Hammond Services 644 E. McIntosh Rd Griffin, GA 30223 (770) 227-5325
www.hammondservices.com
Jackson Heating & Cooling 265 Lewis Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-5262 www.jacksonheatingcooling. com
Meeks Heating and Air 2159 Highway 42 Jenkinsburg, GA 30234 (770) 227-5753 www.meeksair.com
Phillips Heating and Air 645 East Third Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 880-9932 www.phillipsheatingair.com
HOME / GARDEN / LAWN / LANDSCAPING
Haley Browning Designs
100 Dave Bailey Road Flovilla, GA 30216 (678) 763-1761
www.haleybrowning.com
ITM Outdoors P.O. Box 811 Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-3190 www.itmga.com
Southern Pro Landscaping, Inc 119 Britton Road Jackson, GA 30233 (404) 456-8525
HOME FURNISHINGS
Badcock Furniture 327 E 2nd St Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-4978 www.badcock.com
HOME IMPROVEMENT / REPAIR / SUPPLIES
Construction Materials Services, Inc.
105 Park 42 Drive, Ste A Locust Grove, GA 30248 (770) 914-1744 www.cmsnatl.com
Kelly Repair Service 440 Tuner Road McDonough, GA 30252 (678) 432-7933
HUMAN RESOURCE SERVICES
Bird Staffing Staffing Agency 600 Westridge Pkwy McDonough, GA 30253 (470) 507-4868 www.birdstaffing.com Impact Workforce Solutions
300 Wilson Rd. Bldg 800 Griffin, GA 30224 1-770-412-0868 www.impactws.com
INDIVIDUAL
Carol Weaver Farms P.O. Box 950 Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-3205
INSURANCE
C L Willard Insurance LLC DBA PBG 3984 Hwy 42 Locust Grove, GA 30248 (478) 997-1006 www.clwillardins.com
Charlie Pelt State Farm 143 Hanover Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-1222 www.charliepelt. com/?cmpid=r1tw_blm_0001
J.P. Capital & Insurance P.O. Box 767 Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-4880 www.jpcinsurance.com/
James Insurance Agency 407 Covington St Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-3705 www.jamesinsuranceagency. com
Rivers Insurance Insurance 516 West 3rd Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-5555 www.riversinsurance.com
Tim Broyles State Farm Insurance 34 Oak Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-2627 www.tbprotectincome.com
MANUFACTURERS
American Woodmark 10175 Hwy 42 South Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-9640 www.americanwoodmark. com
Axiom Engineered Systems of Georgia LLC. 601 Logistics Parkway Jackson, GA 30233 (905) 727-2878
Better Pallets, Inc. 100 Bunch Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-2182
MasterBrand Cabinets 120 Midway Road Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 408-6937 www.masterbrand.com
MARINA,BOAT STORAGE & REPAIR
Reasor’s Landing, Inc 278 Marina Circle Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 504-1245 www.reasorslanding.com
MARKETING
THP Creative Group, Inc. 1118 Culpepper Drive Conyers, GA 30094 (770) 483-5973 www.thpcreative.com
NAIL SALON
Sun Nails
791 Hwy 36E, Suite B Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-7022 www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100057432909867
PAGEANTS
Crowned Creations 157 Marina Circle Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 740-1489
PAINTING CONTRACTOR
KP Painting, LLC 700 Hwy 87 Flovilla, GA 30216 (770) 504-3120 www.kp-painting.com/ Painting_Jackson_GA.htm
BY DR. ED HOARD, PASTOR
JACKSON PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Jackson Presbyterian Church, one of the oldest congregations in Butts County, enjoys a rich religious heritage. The 1820s was a critical time in Butts County’s and the State of Georgia’s history. Butts County was still considered “Indian land” as most of the territory was controlled by the Upper Creeks (Muscogee tribe). One of the leaders of the Upper Creeks was Chief William McIntosh who owned a home at Indian Springs. In 1825 at Indian Springs, McIntosh signed a treaty with the State of Georgia ceding the land that now comprises Butts County (as well as nearly a third of Georgia) to the State. One year later (1826), a group of settlers in the new frontier town of Jackson were led to plant a Presbyterian church. They chose a strategic piece of property just one block north of the town square on which to construct their first building for worship.
From its inception, Jackson Presbyterian Church has been community and ecumenicallyminded. When a Baptist congregation began to form in Jackson, they lacked a worship facility and for their first sixty years worshipped in the building the Presbyterians occupied. Jackson Presbyterian Church has never lost that community cooperation and offers its facilities frequently to civic groups and others needing a place to meet.
The present sanctuary was constructed in 1897 in the middle of a thriving Victorian neighborhood. Visitors to the church today are awed by the understated splendor of the original Victorian stained-glass windows that bathe the sanctuary with color and light as the congregation worships God. The sanctuary’s chandelier, pews and pulpit are original to the building and are still used today. The chandelier, originally gas, was retrofitted for electricity around 1907. Until recently, the piano used in worship was a first edition George Stack Victorian square grand piano made of Brazilian rosewood. The piano was manufactured in 1860 and transported from New York to Jackson by train just as the Civil War began. The keys of the priceless instrument are authentic ivory, and the sound of this magnificent piano is reminiscent of the early pianoforte of Mozart’s era with a tone that is best described as having a soft, harp-like quality.
Other interesting features of the 127-yearold building are the original 19th century pulpit adorned with a pulpit Bible published in 1890, original 19th century pulpit furnishings, a circa 1907 light switch, amphitheater ceiling, a “dished” sanctuary floor, Victorian-era door
knobs, repeated fleur-de-lis patterns in the stained glass windows, embossed pew hymnal racks, scalloped detailing on the pews, and inscribed door hardware. The church boasts Jackson’s first heating system with original decorative grill for air flow.
Even though the church appreciates and celebrates its incredibly rich history, the congregation is focused on the future. The congregation warmly welcomes guests and members on Sunday with coffee and homemade pastries served in the church library. Members reach out to the community with such ministries as providing breakfast for trash pick-up volunteers, opening our facilities to the local amateur radio club, providing a gathering place for the City’s mayor to address the community, serving as a wedding venue for members and non-members alike, distributing water and offering prayer to passers-by, organizing an annual Spring plant and craft bazaar, co-sponsoring an annual outdoor movie night with the City’s Downtown Council, offering outdoor yoga classes, holding seminars for floral decorating, sourdough bread-making, and financial planning just to name a few.
Presbyterians enjoy a rich history going back to the Protestant Reformation. Founding fathers include John Calvin, John Knox and other highprofile reformers. Presbyterians, like most Protestants, view the Apostle’s creed as their statement of faith. They have traditionally been family-oriented, Bible-believing, and welcoming of all persons who seek a relationship with Christ.
The Jackson Presbyterian Church offers Bible study on Sundays at 9:45 AM and traditional congregational worship at 11:00 AM. Dress is informal; come as you are. On the second Sunday of each month, attendees enjoy a covered dish meal (pot luck) following the worship service. Delicious Southern fried chicken is always on the menu along with our members’ favorite home-made recipes. The church recently began an online television ministry via its Facebook page (www.Facebook. com/jacksonpresbyterianchurch). The church’s website is being updated and can be viewed at www.jacksonpresbyterianchurch.com. The church’s telephone number is 678-920-8986.
Our motto is: “Friends for the Journey.” We’re all on our individual journeys but we all need friends to encourage us, to help us find the way, and to love us unconditionally. You’ll find those friends at the Jackson Presbyterian Church, 240 North Oak Street, Jackson.
2024 CHAMBER MEMBERS
PARKS
Dauset Trails Nature Center
360 Mt Vernon Church Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-6798
www.dausettrails.com
High Falls State Park 76 High Falls Park Drive Jackson, GA 30233 (478) 993-3053
www.gastateparks.org/ HighFalls
Indian Springs State Park 678 Lake Clark Road Flovilla, GA 30216 (770) 504-2277
www.gastateparks.org/ IndianSprings Jackson Lake Association, Inc PO Box 795 Jackson, GA 30233 www. JacksonLakeAssociation.org
PEST CONTROL
Barnes Lakeside Exterminating, Inc. 127 Truck Stop Way, Ste #4 Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-6769
www.barneslakeside.com
Bizzy Bee Exterminators 30 Oxford Business Parkway Oxford, GA 30054 (770) 787-3718 www.Bizzybeeexterminators. com
PHYSICIANS / SURGEONS /
MED CLINICS
Dr. Maldanado Moreno 375 McDonough Rd Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-4622
PLUMBING
Barnes Plumbing & Septic, LLC 1903 Hwy 16 E Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 294-5154
Fix The Drip Plumbing Company, LLC
1197 Halls Bridge Rd Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 409-8670 www.fixthedripplumbing. com
PRESS/PUBLICATIONS/
RADIO
Earnhart Broadcasting Company, Inc 940 Brownlee Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-3151
www.wjga921.com
Jackson Progress-Argus 129 South Mulberry Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-3107
www.myjpa.com
PRINTING SERVICES / PROMOTIONAL ITEMS
Minuteman Press 571 JONESBORO RD McDonough, GA 30253-3718 (770) 957-0012 www.mcdonough-ga. minutemanpress.com
REAL ESTATE
Century 21 Crowe Realty 4080 Hwy 42 S Locust Grove, GA 30248 (770) 775-1800
www.crowerealtyga.com
Closed by Clarke LLC 305 Beech Dr Jackson, GA 30233 (917) 515-1169
Foundations Realty 744B E. 3rd St Jackson, GA 30233 (404) 242-1665
ICM Realty Group 3060 Peachtree Rd NW Suite 1050 Atlanta, GA 30305 (678) 642-3986 www.icmassetmanagement. com
Kim Freshwater, REALTOR
Century 21 Crowe Realty 110 S Harkness St, Suite A Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 630-8394 www.KimFreshwater.Realtor
McLeRoy Realty, Heather McLendon, Broker
200 Plaza Drive Zebulon, GA 30295 (770) 567-3030 www.mcleroyrealty.com
Metro South Association of REALTORS 1671 Adamson Parkway Morrow, GA 30260 (770) 477-7579 www.msar.org
Susan Murdock Realtor, Inc. 4080 Hwy 42
C/O Century 21 Crowe Realty Locust Grove, GA 30248 (770) 383-5833 www. murdockrealestateteam.com
Tara Properties, Inc. 2 Byars st Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 774-8989 www.taraproperties.com
T he Blalock Team LLCKeller Williams Realty 262 Godsey Rd Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 367-0094
RECYCLING AND SCRAP METAL
Sure Power, Inc 195D Four Points Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-5303 www.surepowerga.com
RECYCLING TIRES
Quality Tire Recycling LLC 465 Mallet Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-3304 www.libertytire.com/
RENTALS - PROPERTY
JB Realty Group, LLC
480 Brownlee Road, Unit 6 Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 910-1238
MotJ Management Co Inc 2255 Hwy 42N Jenkinsburg, GA 30234 (770) 957-7295
INDIAN SPRINGS STATE PARK
BY STEPHEN DAVIS, PARK MANAGER
When you think of Indian Springs State Park, what do you picture? Is it the shoals at the front of the park, or the spring water people collect? Do you think of kayaking on McIntosh Lake? What about the many weddings held at the Stone Pavilion? Or maybe you think of the Idlewilde Event Center, which is also great for weddings, corporate events, and reunions.
Indian Springs State Park is a place for great outdoor recreation and known for its rich history and importance to the state park system. The area surrounding the artesian spring has been in possession by the State of Georgia since the Treaty of Washington in 1826, when the Creek lands surrounding the spring were ceded to the government. While the title “State Park” was not held by Indian Springs until 1927, the state set aside the area immediately around the springs as a public recreation area – the first stateowned recreation area in the nation!
Did you know that Indian Springs was once home to several resort hotels, an amusement park, a skating rink, and a bowling alley? There was even a train that ferried people from the depot in Flovilla to Indian Springs to visit the resorts and enjoy the site’s healing waters. The owners of Idlewilde, currently used as the park’s visitor center, operated the residence as a boarding house to allow more people to stay at the springs. The owners would sleep on the porch to provide more rooms for their guests.
The park is home to 10 lakeside cottages, 62 campsites, hiking and biking trails, and several structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, including the wedding-famous Stone Pavilion and the recently renovated park museum. You should plan a visit to enjoy the park, learn more about the unique history of Indian Springs, and sample the spring water for yourself.
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: HEATHER WOODS
RESTAURANTS / CATERING
Ami’s Kitchen
15 Mohican Maze
Locust Grove, GA 30248 (770) 504-3094
www.facebook.com/AmisKitchen-100579045358569
Bo’s BBQ
110 Plantation Lane
Locust Grove, GA 30248 (770) 378-4569
Bradley’s Olde Tavern
2 Oak Street Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 774-8111
www.facebook.com/ bradleysoldetavern
Buckner’s Family Restaurant 1168 Bucksnort Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-6150 www. BucknersFamilyRestaurant. com
Buddy Blu’s Cool Licks
34 N Mulberry St Jackson, GA 30233 (470) 251-5042 www.buddybluscoollicks. com/
2024 CHAMBER MEMBERS
Fire and Ice Pizza and Icecream
278 Marina Circle Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 525-8327
www.Fireicepizza.com
Fresh Air Bar-B-Que Restaurants / Catering 1164 Hwy 42 South Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-3182 www.freshairbarbecue.com
HoneyBaked Ham 1000 Tanger Drive Suite 315 Locust Grove, GA 30248 (770) 898-0703 www. honeybakedlocustgrove. com/
Hunter’s Cafe 310 Macon Avenue Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 504-9111 www.huntersoulfoodcafe. com
LS Wing Depot
237 W 3rd Street Jackson, GA 30234 (770) 504-3007 www.Lswingdepot.com
Lucy Lu’s Coffee Cafe
42 North Mulberry Street Jackson, GA 30233 (470) 251-5262
www.facebook.com/pg/ lucyluscoffeecafe
The Brickery 232 W 2nd St Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 774-8555 www.brickerypizza.com/
Yahola Creek LLC 1834 Hwy 42 S. Flovilla, GA 30216 (770) 468-5522 m.facebook.com/ yaholacreek
3 C’s Charcuterie LLC Locust Grove, GA (770) 658-9738
RETAIL
Hey Jo Boutique 10 3rd st Suite 10 Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 897-5104 www.heyjoboutique.com
Stananco Tire & Power, Inc 110 Stark Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-7112 www.stananco.com
Tractor Supply Co. 1631 W Third St. Jackson, GA 30233 (706) 319-4261 www.tractorsupply.com/
Vintage Vinyard 10 N Mulberry St. Jackson, GA 30233 (404) 803-2750
SECURITY
Atlanta Access Controls, Inc 96 Ernest Biles Dr. Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 954-1188 www.atlantaaccesscontrols. com
SIGNS & BANNERS
Georgia Signs & Print 123 S Mimosa Lane Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 878-0914
SPECIALTY FOODS / COFFEE SHOPS / ICE CREAM
Correctional Resource Group
Specialty Foods / Coffee Shops / Ice Cream 123 Dam Rd Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 320-8484
SPORTING GOODS
Roots Outdoors
Sporting Goods / Retail/ Work Boots 38 Oak Street Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 774-8722
www.roots-outdoors.com
Trailer sales/service
T.M. Trailer Sales, Inc
Trailer sales/service 192 Van Mar Boulevard Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 305-9071 www.tmtrailersales.com
TRANSPORTATION / LOGISTICS
AWI Trucking 1829 Hwy 36 W Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-5446
Collins Trucking Company, Inc
Transportation / Logistics 527 Alabama Blvd Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 774-7412
www.collinstrucking.com
FP Enterprises Inc
Transportation / Logistics 127 Riverview Park Rd Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 504-9616
Heath Transport LLC
Transportation / Logistics 3755 Butler Hwy Junction City , GA 31812 (706) 905-2434
Hedge & Penn Logistics LLC 144 Riverview Park Road Jackson, GA 30233 (678) 923-8672
RECHARGE YOURSELF AND YOUR EV AT HIGH FALLS STATE PARK
BY TERRY MILLER , PARK MANAGER, HIGH FALLS STATE PARK
It’s a well-known fact that getting outdoors is a great way to “recharge your batteries” so to speak. Living in Butts County, the Outdoor Capital of Georgia, we are blessed with great outdoor spaces to improve the way you feel and your quality of life.
Now High Falls State Park, located just 10 miles from downtown Jackson and about two miles of Interstate 75, is taking “recharging your batteries” to another level by partnering with Georgia Power and Rivian to install Rivian Waypoints EV charging stations on the park. High Falls is the sixth Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites location to get the chargers and was chosen due to its proximity to I-75.
The first chargers went online in April 2023 at Tallulah Gorge State Park with Governor Brian Kemp in attendance. “Rivian is a valued partner in electric vehicle innovation and in growing the EV market here in the No. 1 state for business,” said Gov. Kemp at the unveiling. “Today’s unveiling represents our continued cooperation in creating new opportunities for tourism and commerce in the Peach State. I congratulate Rivian on this milestone and look forward to the future we will build together for the people of Georgia.”
The chargers are part of Rivian’s Waypoints Network of Level 2 chargers which can add up to 25 miles of driving range for each hour they are plugged in to Rivian’s R1T pickup or R1S SUV. Level 2 chargers like these are ideal for EV-driving park patrons visiting for extended periods of time for scenic hikes or overnight stays. Chargers charge a modest fee for usage plus each vehicle must have a five-dollar daily ParkPass or an annual pass to be on the park.
Each charger is equipped with a J1772 plug, making it compatible with all types of electric vehicles. With this feature, this collaborative effort extends Georgia’s electric charging infrastructure grid to new areas for all EV drivers to explore. The chargers are powered by 100% renewable energy through Rivian’s energy matching program.
Trent Warnke, Senior Director of Energy and Charging Solutions at Rivian said, “These chargers represent opportunity: The opportunity to explore responsibly, to consider zero-emission transport and to implement a more sustainable way of going about the world. Every kilowatt-hour our chargers deliver is matched with renewable resources like solar and wind.”
“Georgia’s wide variety of beautiful, engaging state parks and educational historic sites are among our state’s best assets, driving tourism and making Georgia a great place to live and visit,”
said Kim Greene, Georgia Power chairman, president, and CEO. “At Georgia Power, we’re committed to supporting the growing electric vehicle market, furthering EV technology and innovation in Georgia, and are proud to partner with the Georgia DNR and Rivian on this exciting effort to make public charging readily available at important destination locations across the state.”
With EV chargers now installed, the park has even added a 2023 Ford Lightning electric truck to its fleet of staff vehicles. High Falls State Park is staffed with 5 full-time and 11 parttime employees. In FY 2023, the park generated $892,342 in revenue from camping, facility rentals, activity fees and gift shop sales. Attracting 389,595 visitors annually, the park generates an economic impact of $42,855,395 and supports 281 local jobs according to state tourism figures.
MORE LOCAL ARTWORK!
BY LISA W. DURDEN
Our last magazine featured local murals that had been created in our community in recent years. The flower mural in Flovilla, the Jackson mural on Third Street in Jackson, the colorful butterfly mural on the side of Jackson’s City Hall, the Stranger Things murals on the side of the Roots Outdoors building and on the wall at the entrance to Buddy Blu’s were all featured in 2023. Everyone was super excited about these great works of art and wanted more.
After much planning and discussing, two murals were added in 2023. One mural depicts Butts County as Georgia’s Outdoor Capital with pictures of various sites of interest in our community including Jackson Lake, Jenkinsburg, Jackson, Flovilla, Indian Springs, Dauset Trails and High Falls. The second mural is a directional mural indicating mileage to various points of interest in Butts County.
Butts County secured a Vibrant Communities Grant through the Georgia Council for the Arts to help pay for the murals. An additional facade grant was obtained by the City of Jackson’s Downtown Development Authority to help pay for cleaning and applying the base coat of paint to the side of building. This was a collaborative effort between the Butts County Chamber of Commerce, the Butts County Administration, City of Jackson DDA, and the Georgia Council for the Arts.
The owner of the building, Mr. Humberto Colin, granted permission for the artwork to be displayed on the building. K.P. Paining, LLC prepped and painted the side of the Mesquite building with a lovely shade from the City of Jackson’s approved Historical Collection of colors. The artwork was completed by local artists ArtbyChasne&Chase, LLC.
The Vibrant Communities Grant program is sponsored in part by the Georgia Council for the Arts through appropriations of the Georgia General Assembly. Georgia Council for the Arts also receives support from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.
Another Stranger Things mural was added to the side of Bradley’s Olde Tavern and was created by Ellen King. It’s an image of a Hawkins Movie Theater sign which is apropos since Bradley’s was the location of the Hawkins movie theater in the television series.
Is there more to come? We certainly hope so! Stay tuned for more beautiful artwork from our talented locals.
DAUSET TRAILS
BY MADELYN CARROLL AND SARAH GREGORY
In the heart of Jackson, Georgia, a hidden gem awaits nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and anyone seeking a connection with the great outdoors. Dauset Trails Nature Center, a private, non-profit sanctuary, stands as a testament to the vision of its founder, Hampton Daughtry. Established in 1978, the center has blossomed from a humble 400.13-acre donation to a sprawling 1,800-acre haven, offering a unique blend of environmental education, wildlife care, and outdoor recreation for the Butts County community.
Mr. Daughtry’s vision was simple yet profound: to provide a sanctuary where young minds could learn from nature. Dauset Trails was born from this desire, becoming a living testament to the transformative power of nature. With nature trails, animal exhibits, bike trails, and horseback riding trails, the center has evolved into an influential space where the natural wonders of the world come alive.
Dauset Trails serves as a permanent home to over 70 Georgia native animals, each with its unique story of survival. Injured or orphaned, these creatures found relief within the center’s caring embrace. Designated as non-releasable due to the nature of their injuries, they become ambassadors for wildlife conservation, offering visitors a chance to connect with the diverse ecosystems of Georgia. Additionally, the center operates a year-round rehabilitation program, successfully releasing over 50 animals back into the wild in the past year alone.
The heartbeat of Dauset Trails lies in its commitment to environmental education. Welcoming school groups and the community, the center strives to ignite a passion for nature and foster a sense of responsibility for the environment. Dauset Trails loves the joy of witnessing school buses unloading eager children, ready to explore and learn about the wonders of the natural world.
Dauset Trails doesn’t just cater to education and wildlife care; it actively engages the community through events that celebrate the local culture and talent. The Bluebirds and Bluegrass festival, held each spring, brings together local musicians, food vendors, and artisans. Come fall, the annual Syrup Festival adds a sweet touch to the calendar, where freshly made cane syrup becomes a symbol of tradition and togetherness.
In conclusion, Dauset Trails Nature Center stands as a beacon of environmental stewardship, wildlife conservation, and community connection. Whether you’re captivated by the call of nature, eager to learn, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Dauset Trails beckons, inviting all to share in the magic of Georgia’s diverse ecosystems.
JACKSON ARTS COUNCIL
BY SUZANNE ALLISON
The Jackson-Butts County Council for the Arts is organized for the purpose of encouraging excellence in the arts by promoting a broad range of art experiences throughout the county.
We have a permanent art collection of over 50 pieces which are on display in the Butts County Administration Building, throughout the Chamber Visitor Center, and in our Art Center, located in the Historic Courthouse on the Square in Jackson.
We also sponsor several Art shows each year and are proud to feature local and regional artists and their work.
to display their talents in a variety of mediums.
Our Community art show, Butts County Creates, is held each year in conjunction with the Butts County Fall Festival. This is the perfect opportunity for local residents
The Student Art Show is a collaboration with the art teachers from the 5 Butts County Schools, and highlights one student per grade, per school, and honors them for their achievements in art.
The Spring Art of the Garden tour has been an outstanding addition to the community for the past 2 years, and we look forward to welcoming visitors into more beautiful gardens in the future.
The Jackson Arts Council has a monthly potluck supper and meeting on the second Thursday of most months. Meetings are held in The Daughtry Foundation Building, 221 E. College Street, and Visitors are always welcome!
You can find more information here at www. JacksonArtsCouncil.com, IG: Jacksonartcouncil, Facebook: Jackson-Butts County Council for the Arts
Perishable Transport Solutions
262 Johnson Road Ste 104 Forest Park, GA 30297 (866) 322-9232 www. perishabletransportsolutions. com
Robert Hardaway Trucking Inc Transportation / Logistics 1571 Helmer Road Fayetteville, GA 30214 (770) 460-5782
Trucks, Inc. Transportation / Logistics 105 Short Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-4999 www.trucksinc.net
TROPHIES
Freedom Trophies, LLC
Trophies / Awards
156 Glen Echo Drive Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 337-4761 www.facebook. com/FreedomTrophies-112048613922945
2024 CHAMBER MEMBERS
TRUCK PARTS AND SERVICE
C McDowell Truck Parts and Service Truck Parts and Service 168 Mitchell St Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 504-3000 www. cmtruckpartsandservice.com
UTILITIES
Atlanta Gas Light 10 Peachtree Pl. NE Atlanta, GA 30309 (877) 427-4321 www.atlantagaslight.com
Central Georgia EMC 923 South Mulberry Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-7857 www.cgemc.com
Georgia Power 300 Ashley Park Blvd Newnan, GA 30265 (404) 862-1611 georgiapower.com
Harold’s Propane 162 Stark Road Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-4821
Snapping Shoals EMC 14750 Brown Bridge Rd Covington, GA 30016 (770) 385-2870 www.ssemc.com
WASTE DISPOSAL
Can Pro’s LP Waste Disposal 242 Burg Rd Jenkinsburg , GA 30234 (334) 796-8674 www.thecanpros.com
Clean Earth Sanitation Waste Disposal 524 Alabama Blvd Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-0505 www.cleanearthsanitation. com/
PEP Roll Off Waste Disposal 1829 Hwy 36 W Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-5446
Republic Services dba Pine Ridge Landfill Waste Disposal 105 Bailey Jester Rd Griffin, GA 30224 (770) 233-9081 www.republicservices.com
HISTORIC CHAPEL AT INDIAN SPRINGS. PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER WOODS.
2024 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EVENTS
THURSDAY
MARCH 7TH
Annual Meeting Awards Banquet
THURSDAY
MAY 16TH
Butts County Chamber Golf Classic
SATURDAY
OCTOBER 26TH
Butts County Fall Festival
FRIDAY
DECEMBER 6TH Christmas Parade
-Sheriff Gary Long
Discover the Power of Location...
With a strategic location equidistant from Atlanta and Macon, and with two truck-friendly exits on Interstate 75, Butts County, Georgia is a logistical dream come true. We are only 40 minutes from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, a three-hour drive from the nation’s fastest-growing container port in Savannah, and a workforce of more than 500,000 workers within a 45-minute commute.
Multiple pad sites with direct Interstate access are available in the county that feature ideal locations for companies that seek connectivity to rapidly growing markets and the major metropolitan areas of the Southeast.
That’s not all. Butts County is more than just a great place to live and work…it’s the Great Outdoors, too! Located in the heart of Georgia, we’re home to more nature and recreational opportunities like Jackson Lake, Dauset Trails Nature Center, Indian Springs State Park and Village, High Falls Lake and State Park, and so much more! Boating, canoeing, kayaking, golfing, camping, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, exploring or just relaxing … we have it all.
Some of your favorite movie and TV productions – like Stranger Things and Zombieland 2 – were filmed here in our Camera Ready Community. So, come spend a day, or a weekend, or a lifetime, and see all that we have to offer you in Butts County.
