April 2017 hccc newsletter

henrycounty.com

A HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUBLICATION

HAMPTON • LOCUST GROVE • MCDONOUGH • STOCKBRIDGE

APRIL 2017 IN THIS ISSUE Chair’s Message 2 Business Profile 3 Calendar 4 SBDC: Should You Hire?

5 Chamber Briefs/Leadership Henry/ Youth Leadership Henry 6 Henry Happenings Chamber Membership Business After Hours Business Boosters Luncheon Chamber Connections/Taste of Henry/Race Weekend Financial Focus Ribbon Cuttings/Elite Membership

YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS

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Comfortably South of Atlanta The Henry County Chamber of Commerce serves as the voice for the business community, provides quality services and programs that meet the needs of its members, improves the economic environment of the community and creates a legacy of leadership for the future.

#DidYouKnow There are also business insurance discounts of up to 12% that Chamber members can receive, depending on their insurance carrier. Plus discounts are available on health insurance and other employee benefit plans.

New Visitors Guide, New Look, New Travelers Continuing the trend of new marketing collateral, the Henry County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) is rolling out a new 2017 Visitors Guide. The Visitors Guide is in keeping with the branding introduced with the launch of the new CVB website.

The Polaroid-style photos used on both are indicative of the memories to be made and experiences to be shared in Henry County!

In addition to the standard listings of local attractions, hotels and retail establishments, this year’s guide is bringing attention to those “under the radar” spots and experiences that are often overlooked but are currently very popular. For instance, did you know that Olive in a Bottle in downtown Locust Grove offers cooking classes once a month? What about that you can watch radio controlled airplanes being flown on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at Red Hawk Nature Preserve and even try your hand at flying with a membership to the Academy of Model Aeronautics?

Since food is central to any southern destination, a section of the new guide is dedicated to detailing the best places to dine while in the area. From the top picks for morning meals to satisfying your sweet tooth, the guide offers recommendations on local establishments in seven different categories.

One feature of the visitors guide that is particularly important to those guests who pick it up in-market is the map. The fold-out

map in the middle of the guide gives guests a sense of place and where attractions and hotels are in reference to each other. Parks are also indicated on the map to give visiting sports teams assistance in planning their stay during tournaments.

Each year 30,000 copies of the visitors guide are produced and distributed. At least half are sent to regional and state welcome centers around the state that welcome more than 13 million visitors a year to Georgia. Even in the age of technology people are still eager to have a physical copy of the guide to reference. Aside from the website, the visitors guide is the CVB’s main marketing and fulfillment piece for those interested in additional information or for incoming groups. Copies of the guide are made available at local hotels and placed in welcome bags for weddings, reunions and sporting events.

“When laying out the guide each year we strive to create a user-friendly piece that presents the necessary information in the most engaging way,” said Laura Luker, Director of Tourism. “We are really pleased how this year’s guide turned out and hope it will serve Henry County well in attracting new visitors to our area.”

Any business who would like copies of the Visitors Guide should contact Laura Luker at lluker@visithenrycountygeorgia. com or (770) 692-7954.

HenryCounty.com

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MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

JUNE WOOD

Rod Meadows Partner at Meadows, Macie & Sutton, P.C 2017 Chair of Henry County Chamber of Commerce

“April, come she will.” Although there is much speculation about the true meaning of the Simon and Garfunkel song, the lyrics remind me of how swiftly the year passes. The Henry County Chamber of Commerce is already in the process of planning this year’s Intergovernmental Retreat, which will take place in late summer or early fall (but, hopefully not on a University of Georgia home football game weekend).

In addition to its annual Day at the Capitol in Atlanta, monthly Business Booster Luncheons, monthly Business after Hours and monthly Board meetings, the Chamber provides a unique opportunity for the leaders of many local governmental entities to come together with your Chamber leadership each year at an Intergovernmental Retreat.

With the support of our partners, the Henry County Development Authority, Georgia Power, Central Georgia EMC, and Snapping Shoals EMC, the Chamber invites the Henry County Commission, the Mayor and Council of each Henry County City, the members of the Board of Education, and each of the County Authorities to meet with the Chamber’s Executive Committee in a day-and-a-half retreat setting, with professional facilitators, to interact with each other and identify and adopt strategies regarding challenges and opportunities for the entire community.

You should congratulate and thank your governmental officials for devoting their time to this effort.

The Intergovernmental Retreats have had a huge positive effect on our community. Over the past eight

years, the Intergovernmental Retreats resulted in the creation and support of the E² initiative – which was instrumental in creating and supporting the Henry County Academy for Advanced Studies and the Henry County Campus of Southern Crescent Technical College. The Intergovernmental Retreats were also the genesis of the One Henry Economic Alliance, which focuses on Workforce Development, Community Image and Communications, Professional Services, Industrial Manufacturing and Arts and Leisure.

You can be proud of the work that your Chamber is doing to foster inter-personal relationships among our elected and appointed leaders and intergovernmental cooperation and collaboration to make Henry County an even better place to work, play and pray.

HenryCounty.com

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BUSINESS PROFILE

Deborah Armstrong Chief Executive Officer

“ Center/Atlanta Medical Center.

Deborah received Deborah a bachelor’s degree in Armstrong became the physical therapy from chief executive officer Georgia State University of Piedmont Henry in and a master’s degree in November 2016. She joined healthcare policy and Piedmont Henry in May administration from 2016 as the chief operating Mercer University. She officer. is also a Fellow in the Prior to coming to American College of Piedmont, Deborah served Healthcare Executives. as CEO of Rockdale Medical Center. She joined About Piedmont Rockdale in 2001, and, Henry prior to taking the helm in 2011, she served in a Piedmont Henry variety of roles including Hospital has served the vice president of Clinical community for close to 40 Services and chief years, offering cutting-edge operating officer. technology and first-class She has more than 30 care in cardiovascular years of experience in care, orthopedics, surgery, healthcare operations, critical care, women’s her early work centering health, emergency services, on rehabilitation therapy radiation oncology and and with organizations diagnostic imaging. The including Children’s hospital is a certified Healthcare of Atlanta and Stroke and Chest Pain at Georgia Baptist Medical Center, a certified member

About Deborah Armstrong

Piedmont Henry continues to extend its healthcare mission beyond the walls of the hospital. of the MD Anderson Cancer Center Network and home to the only breast health center in Henry County to offer a continuum of care for newly diagnosed patients.

On average, the 215-bed facility serves close to 90,000 patients in the emergency department in addition to approximately 13,000 inpatient and 60,000 outpatient visitors each year. Physicians at the hospital perform more than 9,400 surgeries yearly and the women’s services department, which became the fifth hospital in Georgia to achieve designation as a Baby-Friendly hospital

by Baby-Friendly USA in 2015, delivers more than 2,100 babies each year.

Community Support In addition to providing advanced medical care,

Piedmont Henry continues to extend its healthcare mission beyond the walls of the hospital through its community benefit grant program, which offers financial support to local nonprofit, communitybased organizations that provide health-related services and programs for at-risk and underserved populations in Henry County. Free programs and services also offered to cancer patients, survivors and caregivers in the community through the Thomas F. Chapman Cancer Wellness program at the hospital.

together in ways that will foster member growth and support for one another.

Chamber membership provides opportunities to network, connect, stay well informed with current activities that impact our county, and gives us a voice on issues that involve our community.

Through this relationship we have been given the opportunity to engage and connect with other businesses enabling us to become an integral and vested part of the Henry County community.” – Deborah Armstrong, Chief Executive Officer

Chamber Involvement

Achievements

“The Henry County Chamber of Commerce has been a great investment for Piedmont Henry Hospital.

The Chamber brings the business community

Piedmont Henry has been a recipient of multiple awards and designations including Top Hospital by the Leapfrog Group in 2015 for its commitment to providing the safest,

highest quality health care. They received the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award for Stroke Program success (2015-2017) and Hospitals & Health Networks Magazine’s Most Wired for using technology to provide patients with a better experience (20152016).

Location Details Piedmont Henry 1133 Eagle’s Landing Parkway Stockbridge, GA 30281 678-604-1000 piedmont.org

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SUNDAY

MONDAY

APRIL 2017 TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

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8 AM LEADERSHIP HENRY, BOD, BR

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8:30 AM CVB BOD, BR 10 AM MEMBERSHIP COMM, TR 11:30 AM EXECUTIVE COMM, BR

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30 2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Rod Meadows, Chairman, Meadows, Macie & Sutton, PC Wayne Lowrey, Chair Elect, United Community Bank Sharon Ponder, Secretary/Treasurer, Bennett International Group Leonard Moreland, Immediate Past Chair, Heritage Bank Brad Thomas, Vice Chair for Economic & Cultural Development, Snapping Shoals EMC Laura Turner, Vice Chair for Chamber Development, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Josh Duncan, Vice Chair for Government & Education, Edward Jones Investments Jeff Mills, CVB Chair David Gill, HCCC President & CEO

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8 AM YOUTH LEADERSHIP HENRY, BOD, BR

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10 AM GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS COMM, BR

9:30 AM GOLF MTG., BR

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4 PM SMALL BUSINESS COUNCIL, BR

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11 AM BUSINESS BOOSTERS LUNCHEON, HR

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9:30 AM CONNECTION VISITS NOON AMBASSADOR LUNCHEON

8 AM HCCC BOD MTG., BR 5:30 PM BUSINESS AFTER HOURS CAPE SECURITIES

CLASS OF 2017: Sharon Ponder, Bennett International Group Brad Thomas, Snapping Shoals EMC Scott Fillmore, Leadership Henry Appointee Rod Meadows, Meadows, Macie & Sutton, PC CLASS OF 2018: Christy Chewning, Central Georgia EMC Patti Brown, SERVPRO of Henry & Spalding David Curry, Henry County Tax Commissioner Josh Duncan, Edward Jones Investments Eugene Edwards, President, Henry County NAACP Morrelle McCrary, RAM-Tech PC Solutions Greg Hammonds, Whaley Hammonds Tomasello, PC CLASS OF 2019: Toni Holmes – LifeSouth Community Blood Centers Laura Turner – Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Rep. Brian Strickland – Smith, Welch, Webb & White

Lincoln Parks – Web Mobile Fusion Shaun Mock – Snapping Shoals EMC Richard Sylvia – Chairman, One Henry Professional Services team

CHAIR APPOINTEES Kate Troelstra – Clayton State University Mike Griffin – Griffin Insurance Agency Bruce Bartholomew – Hamilton State Bank EX OFFICIO MEMBERS Deborah Armstrong, Henry County Hospital Authority Rodney Bowler, Superintendent, Henry County Schools Tony Carnell, HC Water Authority Charlie Moseley, HC Development Authority JD Hardin, Leadership Henry Don Dunlap, Youth Leadership Henry Mayor Robert Price, City of Locust Grove Mayor Steve Hutchison, City of Hampton

Mayor Billy Copeland, City of McDonough Mayor Judy Neal, City of Stockbridge June Wood, Chair, Henry County BOC

CHAMBER STAFF David Gill, President & CEO Lydia Pierre, Director of Communications Gary Sparrow, Membership Director Phyllis Reeves, Office Manager CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU STAFF Laura Luker, Director of Tourism Aisha White, Digital Marketing Assistant

HenryCounty.com

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Should You Hire Your First Employee?

Cheryl Greenerl, Program Coordinator The University of Georgia SBDC at Clayton State University

If you’re like most entrepreneurs, you a good night’s sleep. You’ll increase wear a verity of hats from sales person productivity and lower stress levels. to bookkeeper, to customer service rep.

Plus, people might actually like being Getting help to run the business may be around you again. an important but difficult step for you to take. It could be a matter of trust. After 3. Instead of spending so much time working “in” your business, you can all, bringing in someone would give them start to work you’re your business. access to your `baby’. Or, you may think Your job as the company leader is that asking for help is a sign of weakness. to create a plan that serves as the But the truth is: getting the right help roadmap to stability and growth. to operate your business is a mature and Bringing in help could give you time wise decision and can greatly contribute to focus on defining key goals and to your success. timelines; carving out the path for Consider some of the possible your company’s future. advantages of hiring the right people: 4. You get to focus on your strongest 1. You can work on the important skills. Just because you’re able to stuff. By creating systems/models perform every job in the company, with procedures that you can teach doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. Think to someone else, you’ll be able to about a task you’d rather not do delegate some of the routine tasks. because you’re not very good at it. I That would free up time to focus bet there’s more that one. Why not on aspects of your business that are hire someone who is capable and more profitable. For example, hiring willing to perform those duties so you a part time assistant to do the clerical can more spend time concentrating work, answer the phone and respond on what you do well. to customer service issues, could give you time to work on the marketing 5. You could take on more work. If you campaign you’ve been planning to want to grow but frequently turn launch. away customers or pass on projects, hiring may be the solution. Adding 2. You may get some time off! It’s not that employee can help as long as unusual for business owners to work you have the revenue to cover the around the clock, spending countless increased salary expense. hours away from family and responsibilities at home. I’ve even There are advantages and some heard some people say they neglect to disadvantages to hiring your first eat properly. Bringing in competent employee. For assistance in determining help opens the possibility of taking a if it’s time to do so, contact The Small vacation, spending more time with Business Development Center (SBDC) loved ones, working on your mental at morrow@georgiasbdc.org or call 678and physical health, or just getting 466-5100.

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CHAMBER BRIEFS Learn about the great things that are happening in our community…

City Of Stockbridge Wins “Mission Ambassador Of The Year” By Goodwill Of North Georgia Stockbridge Councilmember Lakeisha Gantt received the prestigious Certificate of Achievement from the Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Institute at the Georgia Municipal Association’s (GMA) Mayors’ Day Conference in Atlanta on Jan. 22.

Henry County Schools has received notification that three Title I schools, (Hickory Flat Charter, Mt. Carmel, and Rocky Creek, elementary schools ) in the district have been named High-Progress Reward Schools by the Georgia Department of Education.

The week of March 13-17 was School Board Appreciation Week as recognized by the Georgia School Board Association and Henry County Schools celebrated their Board of Education throughout the week for their dedication and service to the communities they serve.

Henry County Schools’ five members of the Board of Education include: • Dr. Pam Nutt, Chair (District 1) – 21 years of service • Mrs. Annette Edwards, Vice Chair (District 5) – 3 years of service • Mr. Josh Hinton (District 2) – 5 years of service • Mrs. Holly Cobb (District 3) – first year of service • Dr. Donna McBride (District 4) – 3 years of service

HenryCounty.com

Youth Leadership Henry Day at the Capitol 2017 The Youth Leadership Henry Class of 2017 had an amazing day at the Capitol! It was long, leaving the Chamber of Commerce at 7AM and returning at 4PM, but it was very rewarding.

Leaving the Chamber at 7AM so they could get through morning commute traffic, the Youth Leadership Henry Class arrived at the Capitol and started their day in the Coverdell Legislative Office Building. Lauren Fralick, Principal and lobbyist with the GeorgiaLink Public Affairs Group described what she does as a lobbyist to members of the state legislature, and explained the process of how laws get created from idea to signed bill. Lauren even brought copies of actual bills so that the class members could look at the “real thing.”

The Youth Leadership Henry Class met with several members of the Henry Legislative delegation; who described why they entered elected office, what their duties are, and the committees they chair and serve on and what those are tasked with. The Youth Leadership Class was grateful to Reps. Brian Strickland, Andy Welch, and Dale Rutledge; who spent a significant portion of their morning with the class and engaged in some amazing Q&A with class participants.

Henry County’s own Chuck Spahos, Executive Director of the GA Prosecuting Attorney’s Council (and former

Henry County Solicitor General), was able to join the class as well. As the head of a government group that provides advice, information, and testimony to the various legislative committees; he described their role in the process for our class members.

The following speaker was Alexandra Collins, bringing greetings from the Secretary of State’s office. While Brian Kemp was out of town that day, he asked Alexandra to come in his stead, and also to share about the Secretary’s leadership program for high school students.

Then, the class went to the Capitol building and met Governor Deal at the North wing stairs, where they had an opportunity to speak with him briefly and take a picture. The class went up the stairs after the picture and spent

the rest of the morning watching the various resolutions, proclamations, and other activity on the floor of the House of Representatives from the gallery.

The class then departed the house gallery and went across the street to the Sloppy Floyd Veterans Memorial Building, where they had an excellent lunch in the cafeteria area downstairs.

After lunch, the class went through another security check and took the elevator to the 20th floor, where they were able to meet with State Superintendent of Schools, Richard Woods. Although he had to testify for a legislative committee meeting, he was able to take some time with the class to describe his vision for education in the state, as well as his perspectives on leadership and their role as developing leaders themselves. He had time for several good

questions from the class before he had to leave; and they departed for their last stop of the day, the Georgia Bureau of Investigations headquarters Crime Laboratory Annex.

Cathy Mausolf greeted the class in the lobby and took them into their meeting room. She described briefly what the GBI is, then screened a short video that went through the role of the 3 divisions of the GBI as well as its history and mission. Afterward, she described her background and some of the interesting parts of her 27 year career and opened the floor for questions. She was pretty amazed at the questions she had, and how well thought out they were.

The class learned a lot at this really interesting session. Afterward the class took a few minutes to peruse the museum before returning to the bus to head back to the Chamber of Commerce.

It was really a great day, and while the class learned a lot themselves; the various hosts learned that Henry County has some amazing young people!

Leadership Henry holds State Government Day State Government Day is always a highlight of the Leadership Henry program, and this year was no exception. Class members spent the morning in downtown Atlanta at the Coverdell Building across the street from the Capitol and were visited by a number of guests.

State Senator Emanuel Jones and State Representative Andy Welch stopped by to talk about legislation and issues they are working on this legislative session on behalf of their constituents. Chuck Spahos, Executive Director of the Prosecuting Attorneys Council, discussed some of the issues of importance to his organization and fielded some great questions by class members. Lauren Fralick of Georgia Link also spoke to the class and shared some of the legislation of interest to Georgia businesses and her job as a lobbyist. Alex Collins, Outreach Coordinator for the Secretary State’s Office, also visited the class.

The class made the quick walk over to the State Capitol where they

met with more members of the Henry County delegation before taking a photo on the stairs with Governor Nathan Deal. Class members also had the opportunity to tour the Capitol and observe the House and Senate Chambers in session.

Next, Leadership Henry made their way to the Sloppy Floyd building for lunch then met with State School Superintendent Richard Woods. Su-

perintendent Woods had a very interactive discussion with the group about his goals as superintendent and improvements he would like to see within the education system.

The final stop of the day was the State Road and Tollways Authority where class members heard a presentation from Chris Tomlinson, Executive Director of GRTA and SRTA. Attendees had an opportunity to ask

questions about Xpress transit, Peach Pass express lanes and their impact on Henry County traffic patterns.

Spencer Moore from the Department of Driver Services also shared about the services his department offers and enhancements they have made to better serve the community.

It was a busy day as always, but one rich with information about our state government and unique networking opportunities for class members. The March Leadership Henry program will focus on Economic Development and Tourism in Henry County.

Want to be a part of the 20172018 class of Leadership Henry? Applications will be available soon at www.leadershiphenry.com.

HenryCounty.com

IT’S

HAPPENING

SOUTHERN BELLE FARM OPENS FOR SPRING BREAK APRIL 1 – 9 Call 770-288-2582 or visit www.southernbellefarm.com for details.

SPRING YARD SALE, LOCUST GROVE APRIL 1, 7AM Bring your treasures to 99 Frances Ward Drive for the Spring Community Yard Sale. Spaces are first-come-first-serve and will be available for reservation onsite on Friday, March 31 from 5:00 PM8:00 PM and Saturday, April 1 from 6:00-7:00 AM. 7TH ANNUAL ZEBRA DASH & 1 MILE FUN RUN FUNDRAISER APRIL 1, NOAH’S ARK Join us for an exciting day at the sanctuary running through the pasture, trails and animal habitats. This unique 5K winds through the pasture (yes, the animals will be there!) on to a beautiful trail and then you do a loop around the animal habitats.

The one-mile fun run is perfect for small kids and strollers because it’s on the paved walkway that winds through the animal habitats past the bears, lions, tigers, primates, and more! Kick off spring with a race like no other, then stick around to tour the sanctuary.

ABATE OF GEORGIA APRIL 1 – 2, ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY Daily Admission $10 Camping - $15 per spot for up to 2 people (add $5 for each additional person).

More info, www.atlantamotorspeedway.com THE COLOR RUN 5K APRIL 1, ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY http://thecolorrun.com/locations/atlanta/

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IN

HENRY

LOCUST GROVE EASTER EGG HUNT APRIL 8, 10AM Bring your little ones ages 2 years- 6th grade to hunt for eggs and take photos with the Easter Bunny! The Easter Egg Hunt will begin promptly at 10:00 AM at Claude Gray Park (99 Frances Ward Drive, Locust Grove, GA 30248)

LOCUST GROVE DAY APRIL 22, 9AM – 5PM Come experience everything that is Locust Grove; food, vendors, crafts, and fun. Vendors will be set up at 99 Frances Ward Drive from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Stay or return for the famous Dance/Concert and 50/50 Raffle. 770-957-5043

SPRING FASHION EXPERIENCE & TANGER CLUB VIP LOUNGE APRIL 8 – 9, 11AM – 4PM Join us to celebrate Spring through additional savings and coupons on new Spring styles, retailer door prizes, pose with models at our Selfie station, face painting, music and more! And we have an extra special surprise for TangerClub members on Saturday in our VIP lounge area where members are invited to check in for a mini-massage and light refreshments! So mark your calendars to join us for fashion, music, prizes and additional savings during this Spring event!

SUMMIT RACING EQUIPMENT ATLANTA MOTORAMA APRIL 22 – 23, ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY The must-see car show event of the year, the Summit Racing Equipment Atlanta Motorama presented by RacingJunk.com, returns to Atlanta Motor Speedway April 22 and 23, 2017.

MISS LOCUST GROVE PAGEANT APRIL 15, LOCUST GROVE CITY HALL AUDITORIUM 5:00 PM- BABY, TODDLER, LITTLE, SPECIAL NEEDS 7:00 PM- JUNIOR, PRE-TEEN, TEEN, MISS Come compete for the title of Miss Locust Grove in our newly renovated historic auditorium in Locust Grove City Hall (3644 Hwy 42). Ages birth - 21 years. For more information, call 678-8605996.

The Summit Racing Equipment Atlanta Motorama is open to most anything with an engine, ranging from muscle cars, imports and trucks to big rigs, motorcycles and even boats and RVs.

HAMPTON EASTER EGG HUNT APRIL 15, 2PM – 4PM, MCBRAYER PARK, 10 CENTRAL AVENUE, HAMPTON Free event for children 10 & under. Pictures with the Easter Bunny *Bring you own camera & Easter basket*

RUSTY WALLACE RACING EXPERIENCE APRIL 1 – 2, 8AM – 5PM, ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY www.racewithrusty.com

TASTE OF HENRY –THE BEST OF TASTE & TOURISM APRIL 21, 6PM – 9PM, JASON T. HARPER EVENT CENTER Where else can you try culinary delights from upscale gourmet fare to downhome southern cooking AND the best of tourism that Henry County has to offer all under one roof?

EASTER BUNNY PHOTOS APRIL 1 – 15, DAILY 1 – 6PM TANGER OUTLET CENTER, LOCUST GROVE Plan now to bring your child and experience the magical gardens on the path to see the Easter Bunny for your special photo memories.

Taste of Henry showcases over 35 local restaurants and food vendors with dishes that are sure to satisfy every palate. The taste-size portions let you sample a variety of different flavors and restaurants. From delicious main courses to appetizers and desserts - if it’s great food, you are sure to find it at Taste of Henry.

Motoring enthusiasts of all types will not want to miss “Georgia’s Motoring Festival,” celebrating all things with an engine. Features include national award winning show vehicles, car crushing by BIGFOOT ® monster trucks, autocross competitions, a colossal vendor midway, live music, the kids’ zone and so much more.

http://www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/events/motorama/ ATLANTA BBQ CLASSIC APRIL 22 – 23, ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY The first-ever Atlanta Barbeque Classic, a barbeque contest officially sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society, will debut during this year’s Summit Racing Equipment Atlanta Motorama, and is the newest signature event benefiting the Atlanta chapter of Speedway Children’s Charities.

For info, visit www.BBQcup@hotmail.com or call 770-886-6290.

O’REILLY AUTO PARTS FRIDAY NIGHT DRAGS OPENING NIGHT APRIL 28, ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY, GATES OPEN AT 6PM For info, http://www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/events/fridaynight-drags/

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PUBLICATION OF HENRYCOUNTY.COM IS MADE POSSIBLE IN PART BY THE SUPPORT OF THE BOARD MEMBERS OF THE HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. THANK YOU!

City of McDonough

City of Locust Grove

Robert Price, Mayor

770-946-8088 Nail-Air.com

Billy Copeland, Mayor

770-957-3915

(770) 957-5043

283650-1

283651-1

770-898-1988 283660-1

STOCKBRIDGE

850 Eagles Lndg. Pkwy.

Stockbridge, GA 30281

770-507-5855

LOCUST GROVE

4870 Bill Gardner Pkwy.

Locust Grove, HA 30248

770-288-3500

283652-1 442981-1

213070-1

283648-1

MCDONOUGH

865 Hwy.20/81 West McDonough, GA 30253

Rodney Bowler Superintendent 770-957-6601 770-914-6178 FAX

1709 Highway 20 West Westridge Business Center McDonough, GA 30253 CHAMBER of COMMERCE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

City of Stockbridge Judy B. Neal Mayor

283655-1

770-957-5786

442984-1

HENRY COUNTY

rodney.bowler@henry.k12.ga.us

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Henry County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Proudly Serving Henry County

770-389-7910 442986-1

22 N. Zack Hinton Parkway McDonough, Georgia 30253

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 75 FIFTH STREET NW, SUITE 175 ATLANTA, GA 30308 ECONDEVGA@SOUTHERNCO.COM WWW.SELECTGEORGIA.NET 283659-1

Board Members reserve your space on this page- Contact Rita at the Henry Herald 770-957-9161 x 227 or email: rcamp@henryherald.com

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To our RENEWING Chamber Members 92.5 FM THE BEAR

FIRST NATIONAL BANK - HAMPTON

PEACHTREE PEDDLERS FLEA MARKET & PEACHTREE ANTIQUE CENTER

A NEW LEVEL EMPOWERMENT & CONSULTATION, LLC

FIRST NATIONAL BANK - HERON BAY

BENTON VILLAGE - A SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY

GARY A. BARTHOLOMEW, DMD

POINT UNIVERSITY

CLAYTON STATE UNIVERSITY

GEORGIA ELITE SPORTS ACADEMY, INC.

SERENITY CRUISE & TOUR LLC

COPART, INC D & A TIRES

GREATER HENRY SHRM

E. R. SNELL CONTRACTOR, INC.

HAMMOND SERVICES, INC.

EAGLE’S LANDING CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

LIFE ENRICHMENT REALTY

EAGLE’S LANDING COUNTRY CLUB ECONO LODGE ELITE FESTIVITIES BY CLARK

MCDONOUGH MUSIC LLC MT. CARMEL PERSONAL ASSISTED LIVING

STUDIO 613, INC. SUNBROOK ACADEMY SWEETIE’S FLEA MARKET

APOLLO STAFFING MELANIE ROGERS 14230 LOCHRIDGE BLVD. STE. D COVINGTON GA 30014 (678) 292-0185

GEORGIA WELLNESS SOLUTIONS JOHN VU 100 PECAN PT. SUITE A GRIFFIN GA 30224 (678) 361-8403

ROBERT M. CAPSTONE SIGNS GOLDBERG & & GRAPHICS BROOKLYN WEAVER ASOCIATES 200 DARWISH DR. ROBERT GOLDBERG MCDONOUGH GA P.O. BOX 294 30252 WILLAMSON GA (770) 712-8828 30292 (770) 229-5729 CHRISTIAN NAILS MARY DINH 3291 HWY 42 N STOCKBRIDGE GA 30281 (678) 284-4544

UNITED FOOD FORCE, INC. KRISTINA MILLER 1463 HWY 20 W MCDONOUGH GA 30253 (678) 272-2000 WASTE INDUSTRIES RICHARD FREDERIC 6905 ROOSEVELT HWY FAIRBURN GA 30213 (770) 733-7934

TOYOTA OF MCDONOUGH / SCION OF MCDONOUGH UPS STORE (THE) WORKOUT ANYTIME LOCUST GROVE

910 Dailey Mill Road McDonough, GA 30253

770-692-3819 Greg Cannon owner

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EXPRESS OIL CHANGE & SERVICE CENTER STOCKBRIDGE

MCDONOUGH FAMILY EYECARE

PRO DRIVERS

To our NEW Chamber Members

www.companioncarega.com

HenryCounty.com

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APRIL

2017

THURSDAY, APRIL 27, 2017 • 5:30 – 7:00 P.M. HOSTED BY

24/7 Emergency Response

770-474-5555

educatedplumber.com • Plumbing • Sewer • Drain • Water Heaters • Leak Detection • Septic Pumping and Repair

8 Cherry St, Hampton, GA This month, the Chamber Business After Hours will be at the former city jail in Hampton, Georgia now known as JailHouse Brewing Company.

JailHouse Brewing Company offers hand-crafted beers that marry small-batch ingenuity with refreshing palatability. JailHouse brands Slammer Wheat, Misdemeanor Ale, Mugshot IPA and Breakout Stout are satisfying, and flavorful. Attendees will have a chance to experience a Brewery tour and tasting hosted by

brewers that will walk you through the brewing process (you must be 21 to taste).

Take advantage of this opportunity and come to this Business After Hours to mingle with colleagues, while listening to the acoustic sounds of the live music provided by a local artist. You’ll enjoy food catered

by Tierra Mia Mexican Cuisine,

and you can even have your mugshot taken in front of the Height Chart!

Now that it appears we have come through the winter and warmer days are here, we hope you will plan to join in the fun.

Business After Hours are free networking events for members and their invited (adult) guests.

FEBRUARY BUSINESS AFTER HOURS RECAP

The February Chamber Business After Hours was a joint partnership between Elite Member, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and LifeSouth Community Blood Centers!

Attendees used this opportunity to come to this Business After Hours and learn more about their products and services while mingling with other colleagues and enjoying catering from Farmhouse Catering along with some refreshments. Also at this event, they were able to make a donation of blood for those in need.

The Jackpot was $150.

Unfortunately, none of our potential winners were present

to win: Barbara Boone, Quality Inn and Suites McDonough and Store Here Self Storage.

Special Thanks to all who brought doorprizes!

• Staffing Connections

• • •

Randy McClellan State Farm United Community Bank Morlaston Home & Business Solutions

Business After Hours is a monthly networking event designed to bring 40-50 business professionals together to meet and build relationships in an informal setting. Each event is hosted by a different Chamber member and is a great way to meet new people and see the diverse business community in Henry County.

TO HOST A BUSINESS AFTER HOURS, PLEASE CONTACT THE CHAMBER AT:

770-957-5786

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APRIL

FEBRUARY BUSINESS AFTER HOURS RECAP

2017

April 20, 2017 • HCCC Hudgins Room • 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

“2020 Vision – Personalized Learning” Rodney Bowler Superintendent, Henry County Schools Rodney Bowler has served the students and community of Henry County for over twentyfour years as an educator with Henry County Schools. Prior to his work as Superintendent, Mr. Bowler served as Assistant Superintendent for Administrative Services, Director of Human Resource Services, founding Principal of Union Grove High School, Assistant Principal at Eagle’s Landing High School, and as a Special Education Teacher at Eagle’s Landing High School and Henry County Middle School.

Mr. Bowler is committed to his service as the fourteenth Superintendent for Henry County Schools. He truly believes Henry County is a county of desired residence as a result of the strength

of $3.00 will be applied for those who pay at the door. Reservations are required by April 18 for planning purposes and can be made online at www.henrycounty.com under “Events” - select the BBL event on April 20. To cover catering costs, no-shows will be expected to make payment.

of the school system and the partnerships the school system has within the county and across the state.

He is committed to the school system’s mission of Ensuring Success for Each Student and is confident that this mission will be realized.

At the April Business Boosters Luncheon you will learn more about: • Henry County Schools Personalized Learning Journey • Current success • Integration with postsecondary and local business partners • Future support for the HCS mission • The discounted cost for this catered lunch for those who register and pay online is $12 for Chamber members and $20 for non-members.

An additional charge

Lunch will be catered by

The Original Shane’s Rib Shack 2136 Highway 155 N McDonough, GA 30252 (770) 898-7878 (770) 898-0950 (fax) www.shanesribshack. com/theoriginal

The Henry County Chamber of Commerce hosted its monthly Business Boosters Luncheon at the Chambers Hudgins Room on Thursday February 16, 2017.

This event was a great opportunity to learn about what is happening to improve Henry County.

Commissioner chair, June Wood’s discussion mainly focused on public safety, transportation infrastructure, economic development, and the improvement of the quality of life within our county.

Community and business leaders packed the room at the Henry County Chamber of Commerce’s BBL all to hear about how Henry County is continuing to improve and

how it is improving.

Those in attendance learned more about SPLOST IV and its effect within the community, including newly fully equipped law enforcement vehicles and ambulances. They also were shared information on new jobs and new investments to improve the economy. As wells as the creation of new parks and recreation to serve as a safe place for family activities.

Missed it? The video is available on the Henry County Chamber of Commerce YouTube Channel.

In addition, special thank you to those who donated door prizes for this event: • Do Something Solutions • Nail Heating & Air

BELLAMY-STRICKLAND Chevrolet • Buick • Pontiac • GMC Trucks

770-954-3000

Every LIFE has a story.

Celebrate it!

BELLAMY STRICKLAND

770-914-1414 www.cannonclevelandfunerals.com

McDonough 302047-3

Greg Cannon

I-75 . 155 Hwy

302050-1

I-75 • Exit 216 145 Industrial Blvd.

McDonough, Ga

Member Directory • Member to Member Discounts • News & Events

• • • • • •

Conditioning, Inc. Gordon State College Communities In Schools of Henry County PCG Screening Services LLC Pinnacle Advertising Specialties, Inc. Natural Enclosures Fence Company, LLC Buzzzz’N Magazines

Catering was provided by:

Gezzo’s Surf & Grille 1866 Jonesboro Road McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 954-9992 (770) 954-9239 (fax) www.gezzos.com

Also visit us at HenryCounty.com

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CHAMBER CONNECTIONS March 1, 2017

Chamber Connections is a fun and informal group of the chamber’s ambassadors and volunteers. The group meets once a month from 9:30 - 11:30am at various business locations.

Ambassadors serve as a liaison between the Chamber and its members, and continually strive to improve the level of personal customer service Chamber members receive. Ambassadors assist members in fully recognizing the benefits of membership.

Ambassadors further assist the Chamber in gaining a better understanding of members’ business needs and in developing services to meet those needs.

Fancy That Fine Jewelry 1752 Hudson Bridge Road, Ste 102 Stockbridge, GA 30281 (770) 507-7458 (770) 507-7668 (fax) www.afancythatjewelry.com

A New Level Empowerment & Consultation, LLC 1700 Pennsylvania Ave, Ste. 207 McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 809-3709 www.anewlevel.org

Once a year you don’t have to drive all over Henry County to sample the best restaurants and get a flavor of the amazing things to do in the area. Taste of Henry: The Best of Tastes & Tourism is taking place April 21 at the Jason T. Harper Event Center at Heritage Park. More than 20 restaurants and tourism businesses from around the county will be onsite dishing out good food and great information. Tickets are available online at TasteofHenry.org and at various locations around Henry County. A $20 ticket gives you access to all the samples you can eat and a fun evening full of music, friends and prizes!

Absolutely Flowers 206 Keys Ferry St. McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 898-2212 (770) 898-2291 (fax) www.abflowers.net Special Thank you to the following Ambassadors for taking the time to make visits.

Genie Moore – Zoom 105.9 Josh Murtha – USHealth Advisors Minnie Hooks – Individual Member Gana Chastine – PCG Screening Services Dr. Elna Poulard – Family Support Circle, Inc

Race Weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway Henry County welcomed thousands of visitors for NASCAR race weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway March 3 – March 5, 2017.

The Henry County Convention and Visitors Bureau was in attendance as they provided visitor information, took green screen photos and gave away prizes at their booth inside the FanZone. Friday’s events included NASCAR qualifying and the announcement of the Atlanta Air Show scheduled for October 16 – 18

at the speedway. Kyle Busch and Christopher Bell won Saturday’s doubleheader, and The Folds of Honor Quiktrip500 on Sunday, saw Brad Keselowski cruise away with the checkered flag. Despite a strong lead by Kevin Harvick, Keselowski claimed his first win of the 2017 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup season.

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Call or visit any of our eleven financial advisors in the Henry County area. To find an Edward Jones office near you, call 1-800-ED-JONES or visit www.edwardjones.com.

David R Dodd Jr. 220 Jonesboro Rd McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 898-1735 Visit My Site Get Directions

John H Dorminy IV, AAMS® 190 Turner Street McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 957-0250 Visit My Site Get Directions

Josh Duncan The Commerce Building 2100 Keys Ferry Ct McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 288-4151

Lin Watts, AAMS® 305 Olde Towne Way McDonough, GA 30252 (678) 583-1325 Visit My Site Get Directions

Gerry Simon, AAMS® 130 Eagle Springs Court Suite B Stockbridge, GA 30281 (770) 389-8912

Paul D Rippa, AAMS® 2141 Highway 155 North McDonough, GA 30252 (678) 583-5090 Visit My Site Get Directions

Member SIPC

www.edwardjones.com

8-1 9-1

Carolyn W Fraser 2863 Highway 155 Locust Grove, GA 30248 (770) 288-3377 Visit My Site Get Directions

Jeremy W Lange, CFP®, AAMS® 29 E King Road Hampton, GA 30228 (770) 707-2390

Dee Anglyn III 125 Westridge Industrial Blvd #100 McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 957-9885 Visit My Site Get Directions

David E Shofman 5487 North Henry Blvd Stockbridge, GA 30281 (770) 506-1994

Vanessa Conwell 4998 Bill Gardner Parkway Ingles Shopping Center Locust Grove, GA 30248 (678) 583-5079

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Welcome!

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Tuesday, March 7, 2017

Saturday, March 4, 2017

Thursday, March 9, 2017

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES – STOCKBRIDGE Contact: Joe Jackson 825 GA-138, Stockbridge, GA 30281 (678) 216-1200

HOOD STREET ART CENTER Contact: Beth Healy 136 Hood Street, McDonough, GA, 30253 (678) 591-7744

GEORGIA WELLNESS SOLUTIONS Contact: John Vu 100 Pecan Point Suite A Griffin, GA 30224 (678) 326-9934

TO INTRODUCE AND CELEBRATE YOUR BUSINESS IN STYLE, PLEASE CONTACT GARY SPARROW, MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR AT 770-957-5786 OR VIA EMAIL GSPARROW@HENRYCOUNTY.COM

CHAIRMAN’S CLUB

SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR ELITE MEMBERS

CHAMPIONS

470686-1

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