HCCC August 2011 Newsletter by Henry County Chamber of Commerce

a henry c o u nty cham b er o f c o mmerce p u b l icati o n

AUGUST 2011 H am p t o n in this issue Chairman’s Article

Toast to Tourism

L o c u st

G r o v e

Y OU R BU S I N E S S I S OU R BU S I N E S S

M c D o n o u gh

S t o c k b ridge

SUPPORTING TEACHERS IS GOOD BUSINESS

Calendar 4 It’s Happening in Henry

New Members/Renewals

Start Your Engines

Ribbon Cuttings

GA Commuter Rail

Financial Focus

Tourism Academy

15 “Education is the anvil upon which democracy is forged,” said HCCC President Kay Pippin quoting Thomas Jefferson to the 200 new Henry County teachers gathered for the 2011 Teacher Induction Program (TIP) luncheon. The business community in Henry County recognizes the vital connection between a strong school system and economic development and each year the Chamber works with Henry County Schools to host the

luncheon welcoming new teachers. For this year’s TIP Luncheon, more than a dozen volunteers turned out to welcome the new teachers, serve them lunch and present them with welcome book bags filled with school supplies, useful promotional items, and gift certificates donated by Chamber members. June Wood, Chair of the Chamber’s Education Committee, committed to the teachers the Chamber’s support to help them be successful in the classroom.

Thank you TIP Luncheon Sponsors for making this event possible: Gold

Snapping Shoals EMC • City of Stockbridge Villas at South Point & Carrington Green Georgia Association of Educators • DeVry University

Silver

Bellamy Automotive • Henry Medical Center Global Leadership Christian Center Brooks & Maddox Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

“Like” the Henry County Chamber of Commerce on Facebook to view more photos from this event. Henry County Chamber of Commerce 1709 Highway 20 West Westridge Business Center McDonough, GA 30253

Bronze

First National Bank • Minuteman Press

Our mission is to provide and maintain a business friendly environment in Henry County.

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Chairman’s Message By taylor Rice

SAVE MONEY ON BACK TO SCHOOL SHOPPING Despite the daily heat, there’s a new crispness in the evening air that lets you know Fall is coming and with it the start of school. This does not have to mean big money and a trip north for back-to-school shopping, since Henry County offers a wealth of cost-saving options.

culators off your list when you visit Office Depot and Wal-Mart. Most Wal-Mart locations already have school supply lists for each school, so stop by, pick up your child’s list and start marking things off. Office Depot is running weekly Back-toSchool deals. Check their ads to see how you can save! You can support To kick off the Back-to-School your school year-round when you shopping season, JC Penney in shop at your local Office Depot via the South Point shopping center is their 5% “Back to Schools” program. hosting a “Big As It Gets Sale” July 29-31. Shoppers who spend $25 No matter whether you have a kinor more will receive $10 off their dergartner or a high school senior, purchase. Got a teenage daugh- Tanger is sure to have the latest ter? Treat her to a make-over at the fashions and must-have accessories. Sephora counter while you’re there. Take advantage of “Back To School Tanger Style” 20% off coupons that Cross the parking lot and stroll the are good until August 30. To obaisles of the beautiful new Acade- tain coupons, shoppers can either my Sports + Outdoors where you’ll sign up on www.tangeroutlet.com find tennis shoes, backpacks, jeans or stop by Shopper Services loand gym clothes. A purchase of cated between Nike and Nine West. $50 in Levis jeans will get you a $10 off coupon towards your next While stocking the closets, don’t purchase until August 13. Or save forget about stocking the fridge. $10 instantly when you purchase Food Depot, Wal-Mart and Publix two pairs of any Carhartt pants un- have multiple Henry County locatil August 6. Other great deals in- tions, offering clude hundreds of footwear styles e v e r y d a y under $40, backpacks under $30 low prices and shorts under $25. Don’t for- and great get, school shopping doesn’t mean weekly spethat just preparing for academics, it also cials means suiting up for fall sports. ensure you Football pads, cleats, softball gloves can get all and more can be found at Academy. your kid’s favorite lunch On August 9, swing by Henry Town e s s e n t i a l s Center and visit Belk for their big and snacks. Chamber of Commerce shopping Remember to event. The all-day shopping pass also pick up gives Chamber members 20% off the latest Harmany regular and sale items and 15% ry Potter lunch off all regular and sale purchases in bag or a stylthe home and shoe departments. ish lunch tote. In making Mark pencils, rulers, paper and cal- the rounds to

these stores, you will not only have saved money, you will have supported both our community and our schools! The concept is simple. What is spent in our county, stays in our county. By taking advantage of the multiplier effect, dollars spent at local businesses create more jobs, raise wages, generate additional tax revenue for community services, and insulate our community from the slow national economy. In fact, every dollar spent in Henry County yields one penny of sales tax dedicated to the Henry County School System via our education SPLOST. This revenue helps maintain and build schools. Studies show that a dollar spent locally can have up to three times the impact as a dollar spent elsewhere. The impact of making your Back-toSchool purchases in Henry County reaches far beyond the cash register. So as the kids prepare to return to school, plan to “Shop Local, Shop Henry!”

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Explore Your County!

Toast to Tourism Offers An Evening of Outdoor Delights Nature lovers, anglers and adventurers prepare to have the time of your life at the Henry County Chamber of Commerce/Convention & Visitors Bureau’s 7th Annual Toast to Tourism on September 22 at Panola Mountain State Park. For just a $5 parking fee, participants can try their hand at tree climbing (ages 8-16), archery, fly fishing, Geocaching, take part in a wildlife class and go on a bug safari! Local tourism partners will be available to share

Photos by Naomi Rice

information about other fun-filled Henry County locations and activities. Everyone is invited to bring their bike, fishing poles and portable GPS device for a fun evening of outdoor activity. Activities start at 5:30 p.m. but come early and bring a picnic dinner to enjoy. For more information contact Laura Luker at (770) 9575786 or lluker@henrycounty.com or visit Panola Mountain State Park’s website at www.gastateparks.org/info/panolamt.

Nominations for HCCC Board The 2011 HCCC Nominations Committee is seeking a slate of candidates for six seats on the Henry County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Candidates must be active Chamber members who agree to accept Director responsibilities for a three-year term. Chamber members vote on the nominees in September 2011 and those elected begin their term in January 2012. In addition to the elected seats, representatives from the county, cit-

ies and public boards make up the remaining positions on the Chamber’s Board of Directors. Nomination(s) for these positions must be in writing and signed by the Chamber member submitting the nomination. They can be faxed to 770-957-8030 or mailed to HCCC Nominations Committee, c/o Henry County Chamber of Commerce, 1709 Hwy 20 West, McDonough, GA 30253. All nominations must be received by August 22, 2011.

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AUGUST 2011 Sunday

Monday

Tu esday

Wednesday

Leadership Henry 8AM Board Room

CVB BOD 8AM, Board Room

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 11:30AM, Board Room MEDIA RELATIONS 3:30PM, Toppan Room

23 TOURISM ACADEMY 8AM Hudgins Room

YOUTH LEADERSHIP HENRY 8AM Board Room

11 GOLF COMMITTEE

8:30AM, Board Room Government Affairs Committee 11:30AM, Hudgins Room SEMINAR: GA’s New Immigration Law 6:30PM, Hudgins Room

MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE 10AM, Board Room

Saturday

SMALL BUSINESS ROUNDTABLE 8:30AM, Board Room

Friday

thursday

EXISTING INDUSTRIES Noon Hudgins Room

24 HCCC BOD MEETING 7:30AM, Board Room

HENRY COUNTY INTER-GOVERNMENTAL RETREAT

AMBASSADOR’S LUNCHEON BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 5:30PM at NOON

HENRY COUNTY INTER-GOVERNMENTAL RETREAT

ABC Montessori

Chamber Staff Kay Pippin, President Roger Nix, Membership Director Laura Luker, Director of Tourism Diane Ide, Director of Communications Phyllis Reeves, Information Specialist 2011 Board of Directors Executive Committee Taylor Rice, Chairman, Moye’s Pharmacy Danny Brown, Chair-Elect, SERVPRO of Henry & Spalding Counties Eddie Ausband, Secretary/Treasurer, The Ausband Agency, Inc. Andy Welch, Immediate Past Chair, Smith, Welch, Webb & White

Kevin Smith, Vice Chair/Chamber Development, Toppan Interamerica, Inc. June Wood, Vice Chair/Government & Education, Georgia Power Charles Scott, Vice Chair Economic & Cultural Development, Henry Medical Center Julie Hoover-Ernst, CVB Chair, Henry County Board of Commissioners Kay Pippin, HCCC President CLASS OF 2011 Michelle Deraney, SCB-TV Channel 15 Marlin Gilbert, Southern States, LLC James Chafin, Judge, H.C. State Court Kevin Smith, Toppan Interamerica, Inc. Lee Saphos, Heartland Payment-Systems Danny Stone, Snapping Shoals EMC

CLASS OF 2012 Herschel Arant, Central Georgia EMC Danny Brown, SERVPRO of Henry & Spalding Counties Steve Moore, Moore Bass Consulting, Inc. John Newman, Classic Landscapes, Inc. Laura Turner, Eleste Marketing, Inc. June Wood, Georgia Power CLASS OF 2013 Eddie Ausband, , The Ausband Agency Greg Cannon, Cannon-Cleveland Funeral Directors Steve Nail, Nail Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Shane Persaud, Building Design Partnership, LLC Rhonda Segers, United Community Bank Denise Sowell, Capitol Street Financial Services

Ex Officio Members Chairman Elizabeth ‘B.J.’ Mathis, HC Board of Commissioners Mayor R.W. Coley, City of Hampton Mayor Lorene Lindsey, City of Locust Grove Mayor Billy Copeland, City of McDonough Mayor Lee Stuart, City of Stockbridge Ethan Hildreth, Superintendent, Henry County Schools Charles Scott, CEO, Henry Medical Center Vickie Loper, Chairman, Henry County Development Authority Roderick Burch, Henry County Water and Sewerage Authority Holly Campbell, Leadership Henry Gerald Hudgins - Chair Appointee Lisa Kinchen, H Magazine, LLC - Chair Appointee

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it’s happening in Henry Comfortably South of Atlanta Thursday Thunder-Thursday Thunder Championship Night August 4 • Atlanta Motor Speedway NASCAR’s stars of tomorrow battle for short-track supremacy on Atlanta Motor Speedway’s “Thunder Ring,” the facility’s frontstretch quarter-mile oval track, during the 2011 Thursday Thunder season. Each event features multiple classes of Legends, Bandolero and Thunder Roadster racing in addition to the newly added Buzz Car division, plus family-oriented fun in a kid-friendly environment which includes autograph sessions, children’s’ activities and special entertainment. Kids ages six to 11 are admitted for just $2, adults pay only $6 and admission is free for children ages five and younger. For more information, visit www.legendsofga.com or www.atlantamotorspeedway.com.

Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine Atlanta Motor Speedway Aug. 5: Friday Night Drags featuring a Pit Area Tailgate Party Aug. 12: Friday Night Drags Double-Points Night Aug. 19: Friday Night Drags Championship Night

UGA Alumni Art Show August 5 – August 26 Winsor Gallery The UGA Alumni Association, in conjunction with the McDonough Arts Council, the UGA Lamar Dodd School of Art, and The Windsor Gallery is sponsoring a third annual exhibition, this year featuring the work of UGA metro Atlanta alumni artists. UGA alumni interested in exhibiting artwork please contact Beth Cook Ely: bethgirl@georgiadogs.com or Cam Cato: ugaartalumni@earthlink.net

“B at the Movies...in the Grove” August 6 – 7:00 pm Locust Grove City Hall Grounds “B at the Movies” is presented by Publix and B98.5. The movie is free, open to the public, begins at dusk and will be held on the grounds of City Hall. The event will also include great giveaways, family games and concession stand. Feel free to bring your picnic baskets. Music and Games begin at 7:00PM. Movie for the evening is Disney’s “UP”

Competing on Friday nights from April through August, local competitors power up for weekly drag racing among 18 thrilling divisions. Each night features street cars, full-blown dragsters, diesel trucks, motorcycles, ATVs and more racing on the Speedway’s pit road eighth-mile drag strip. In addition, each night includes the MCR Safety Show-N-Shine car show, promotional events, fan interaction and special features. Admission costs just $8. Competitors pay $20 to race or to enter the car show or pay $30 to enter both. For more information, visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com.

Speed Tech Racing School August 5-7 • Atlanta Motor Speedway www.speedtech500.com or call 1-877-80-SPEED

The 3/50 Project August 4-6:00 pm Griffin Welcome Center Located at the Griffin Welcome Center come join us for an evening of insight, ideas and application of one simple model that will impact our community and economic growth. Business owners, employees, service clubs and anyone who believes in “buying local” and wants to better implement this model and see our community thrive is invited. Seating is limited. Table seating reserved for a firstcome, first-serve basis. Heavy hors d-oeuvres and cocktails begin at 5:30 pm. Admission is free with reservation (before July 29). After July 29, $10 will be charged at the door. To register call 770.412.0441 or visit www.kitchendrawer.net/350.

UGA Alumni Art Show Opening Reception August 5 – 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Winsor Gallery

Belk Chamber of Commerce Shopping Event August 9 – 10:00 am – 9:00 pm McDonough Belk In appreciation of the Chamber members many efforts, Belk is presenting an all-day shopping pass: 20% off most items; 15% off home and shoes. Just come in and mention that you are a Chamber member to enjoy your savings.

Henry Medical Center’s 2011 “Oh, Baby!” Search Search ends August 5 HMC is searching for babies born on or after August 2010, at HMC, and pregnant moms scheduled to deliver by September 2011. Babies selected will be photographed by a professional baby photographer for possible use in HMC publications. See http://www.henrymedical.com for more information.

HeartSaver First Aid Course August 14- 9:00 pm- 4:00 pm Henry Medical Center

The HeartSaver CPR First Aid course is taught by a certified American Heart Association instructor and includes CPR and first aid for adult and pediatric victims. The first aid portion includes medical, injury and environmental emergencies. RegUniversity of Georgia alumni artists will kick off the third annual UGA Alumni istration is required for this class. To register, visit www.henrymedical.com or call Art Showcase with an opening night reception. The public is invited to meet par- the Henry Medical Center Community Education Department at 678-604-1040. ticipating artists and learn about their work while enjoying light refreshments. Continued on Page 6

HAPPENINGS continued

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Henry Medical’s Fresh Start Course Every Tuesday in August - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm Henry Medical Center Henry Medical Center’s Fresh Start course provides help to people in the community who want to stop smoking. The Fresh Start course is an American Cancer Society program. Individuals participating in the course are given helpful hints to aid in the stop smoking process. A Fresh Start instructor will teach techniques to help end the physical and psychological need to smoke. To register for this course, please call Henry Medical Center’s Community Education Department at 678-604-1040 or visit the hospital’s website at www.henrymedical.com

Keep the Spirit of ’45 Alive! August 14 - 3:00 pm Veterans Wall of Honor - Heritage Park Everyone is invited to take part in a service honoring the memory of men and women of the WWII generation. This service is part of the “Keep the Spirit of ’45 Alive!” initiative to establish an annual national day to honor the legacy of the WWII generation. Special guests will be our Veterans of WWII. On-hand for the event will be: Bethany Baptist Church Celebration Choir & Orchestra, CAP Color Guard, buglers from Bugles Across America, and a special guest speaker.

Middle Georgia Model Railroad Club display August 20 10:00 am - 6:00 pm August 21 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm Hampton Depot MGMRC will have their display in the Hampton depot for the third year. This is a Main Street program that is open and free to the public. Saturday there will be food and crafts vendors in the depot park.

Job Fair August 22 11:00 am-4:00 pm Coweta County Fair Grounds Hosted by Congressman Lynn Westmoreland at the Coweta County Fair Grounds Representatives will be in attendance from various businesses within the 3rd District including manufacturing employers, small businesses, and more. For more information or to have your business represented, contact Andy Bush or Robb Nichols District Office: (770) 683- 2033.

Colorectal Cancer Screening Intervention Program August 25- 1:00 pm- 2:00 pm Henry County Senior Center CCSIP, a three-session program, will be offered at the Henry County Senior Centers in August, September and November 2011 with additional programs planned for January 2012. The program includes information on colorectal cancer, screening recommendations and prevention tips. To register for the upcoming CCIP programs at either of the Henry County Senior Centers, call 770-288-7001.

Noah’s Ark Summer Arts & Crafts Fair August 27 & September 24 11:00 am – 4:00 pm Noah’s Art Vendors and shoppers are welcome. Vendors are asked to register in advance. For more information, visit http://www.noahs-ark.org/.

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP Welcome to our NEW Members

American Family Insurance Mr. Mike Ashby 3800 Camp Creek Pkwy., Bldg. 1400, Suite 102, Atlanta 770-686-8647 American Family Insurance Mrs. Margarita Babbin 3800 Camp Creek Pkwy., Bldg. 1400, Suite 102, Atlanta 404-210-6090 Carpenter House Ministries Mr. & Mrs. John W. Suggs P.O. Box 3208, McDonough 678-374-9603 DMG Images, LLC Mr. Deron Garing 106 Willow Trace, Stockbridge 770-356-6113 Fidelity Bank Ms. Lisa Jackson 1375 Highway 20 West, McDonough 770-914-4300

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP Thank You to our RENEWING Members Moore Bass Consulting, Inc. Olympus Media Outback Steakhouse Pyke & Associates, PC Ringer Center of Excellence Robinson, Whaley, Hammonds & Allison, PC Shining Light Ministries, Inc. Southern Heart Specialists, P.C. Springwell Financial Solutions Starlite Skate Center State Farm Insurance - Grant Carter State Farm Insurance - Shannon Till Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc. The Gardenias Assisted Living & Memory Care Turning Point Church Underdue Social Services, Inc. UniVirtual Solutions, Inc. Walmart - Willow Lane

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Henry County, Start Your Engines...

Become a Golf Tournament Sponsor

When your company becomes a sponsor for the Chamber’s 11th Annual Golf Classic you not only receive recognition at this prestigious event, you also have the opportunity to exhibit on the course and to send selected staff members, key clients or customers to participate in the Golf Classic. The countdown is on! In just over a month, thousands of NASCAR fans will descend on Henry County to be a part of the racing action at Atlanta Motor Speedway during Labor Day Weekend. The Henry County Chamber of Commerce/Convention and Visitors Bureau has a limited number of commemorative t-shirts encouraging race fans and residents to “Race to Henry.” Businesses wanting to display their racing spirit can buy t-shirts for $5 each or pick up “We Love Race Fans” buttons at the Chamber for their staff to wear during the weeks leading up to the race.

Available sponsorships are at the following levels: Platinum $5,000 Gold $2,500 Silver $1,500 Team Only $ 750 (Limited availability after sponsorships)

What Else Can Your Business Do to Support the Race?

If one of the sponsorship levels does not fit into your budget, please consider entering a team of 4 players for only $750. As always, lunch, dinner and on-course beverages will be provided.

• Add “Welcome Race Fans” messages to digital marquees and signs • Display checkered flags • Offer discounts to race fans holding valid race tickets • Provide coupons or gift items to include in 300 HCCC/CVB gift bags going to race fans staying at local hotels • Advertise specials and discounts on the HCCC/CVB’s website (see below) • Provide coupons to be distributed at the HCCC/CVB booth at Atlanta Motor Speedway on Race day • BUY A TICKET AND ATTEND THE RACE! For more information about how your business can help welcome race fans and claim a piece of this huge economic engine contact Laura Luker at lluker@henrycounty.com.

For a complete list of the HCCC/CVB specials, promotions and racing packages available for race weekend visit

http://visithenrycountygeorgia.com/events/nascar/race-to-henry-county.

Dottie WISE

This year’s event will be at Georgia National Golf Club on Monday, September 26, 2011 and will feature two hole-in-one contests: one for an automobile and the other an all-expenses paid trip (admission, meals and accommodations) for your entire team to the 2012 Masters in Augusta. A helicopter will drop numbered golf balls near a designated pin behind the clubhouse and the three closest balls can win valuable prizes. An award will also be presented for the best sponsor tent.

Associate Broker dottie.wise@metrobrokers.com metrobrokers.com/dottie.wise 404.843.2500 Office 678-443-8407 Direct 404.683.0912 Mobile METRO BROKERS 1401 Highway 20 West McDonough, GA 30253

At the awards dinner, attractive cash prizes will be Each Firm is independently Owned and Operated awarded for the tournament champions and Putting Green Contest winners. For more in- Chevrolet • Oldsmobile • Pontiac • GMC Trucks formation about sponsoring the 11th I-75 • Exit 216 BELLAMY Annual Golf ClasSTRICKLAND 145 Industrial Blvd. sic or to register a I-75 5 5 team, contact Roger 1 McDonough, GA . Hwy Nix at 770-957-5786 McDonough or e-mail rnix@ henrycounty.com.

BELLAMY-STRICKLAND

770-954-3000

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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! Ethan Hildreth City of Henry County’s Locust Grove choice for

OF CLAYTON COUNTY OF DECATUR OF HENRY & SPALDING COUNTIES

Superintendent

Member FDIC

Charles B. Woodroof Sr. Vice President Henry County Executive 2750 Highway 42 North McDonough, GA 30253 Tel: 678.510.5283 Fax: 770.506.8867

Lorene Lindsey, Mayor

Cell: 678.414.4271 Nextel: 24*7766 www.fnbgriffin.com

woodroof@fnbbanking.com

City of Stockbridge Lee Stuart, Mayor 770-389-7910 If you’re looking for the perfect location, we can help. Along with SelectGeorgia, our powerful new state-of-the-art system for finding the best site or building for your company, our team of professionals provides world-class service to meet all your site location needs. We are here to be part of your team by providing our expertise, products, and services to you free of charge. From target industry knowledge to site analysis to visit coordination, we do it all. Contact us. We’re ON so you can be.®

770-775-7857

Henry County Chamber of Commerce

STOCKBRIDGE 850 Eagles Landing Pkwy | 770-507-5855 MCDONOUGH 865 Hwy 20/81 W | 770-898-1988

Convention & Visitors Bureau

770-957-5786

City of Hampton

LOCUST GROVE 4970 Bill Gardner Parkway | 770-288-3500 Retail Sales Manager 678-289-2503

Member FDIC | ucbi.com

SNAPPING SHOALS EMC

City Hall: 770.946.4306 Fax: 770.946. 4356

P. O. Box 509, Covington, GA 30015

770-786-3484

Leading Edge Technology. First Class Care. Close To Home.

Eddie Ausband, CFP

1133 Eagle’s Landing Parkway Stockbridge, Georgia 30281 Telephone: 678.604.1000

4920 N. Henry Blvd Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: 770-507-401K 770-389-9060 x 102 eausband@revanta.com

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

Billy Copeland, Mayor

770-957-3915

2200 KEYS FERRY COURT MCDONOUGH, GEORGIA 30253

770-957-3937

Greg Cannon

770-914-1414

www.cannonclevelandfunerals.com

Cremation Services

Attorney

WEBB & WHITE

Every LIFE has a story. Celebrate it!

Companion Care

ANDY WELCH SMITH, WELCH,

Nationally Known - Locally Owned

Manager of Economic Development

www.henrymedical.com

City of McDonough

(770) 997-5689 (404) 378-9998 (678) 432-3003 FAX: (770) 914-1078

Danny Stone

Mayor

P.O. Box 400 17 East Main Street South Hampton, Georgia 30228

Danny Brown 934 DAILEY MILL ROAD McDONOUGH, GA 30253 dbrown@servpro8537.com

22 N. Zack Hinton Parkway McDonough, Georgia 30253

R. W. Coley

Rhonda J. Segers

FIRE & WATER- CLEANUP & RESTORATION 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

General Manager

ethan.hildreth@henry.k12.ga.us

(770) 957-5043

www.cgemc.com

1709 Highway 20 West Westridge Business Center McDonough, GA 30253

770-957-6601 770-914-6178 FAX

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

910 Dailey Mill Road McDonough, GA 30253

770-692-3819 Greg Cannon owner

“Lillie”

www.companioncarega.com

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June 18 OwnSmart USA

Contact: Mr. Torey McCormick 4705 North Henry Boulevard, Stockbridge, GA 30281 678-833-2916 • www.ownsmartusa.com

June 30 The French Market

Contact: Mr. & Mrs. Rick Weaver 3840 Highway 42 Locust Grove, GA 30248 770-914-6303 • www.frenchmarkettavern.com

July 6 Mercy Medical Supply LLC

Contact: Mrs. Jacqueline K. Jordan 5365 North Henry Boulevard #123 Stockbridge, GA 30281 770-506-9944 • www.mercymedicalsupply.com

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BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Eagle’s Brooke Country Club Awards Free Foursome of Golf at June Business After Hours Despite the inevitable summer storm, Chamber members enjoyed visiting Eagle’s Brooke Country Club in Locust Grove for the June Business After Hours. They were treated to delicious hors ‘douevres and bev-

erages while networking and enjoying a scenic view of the golf course. Eagle’s Brooke provided, as a door prize, a free round of golf for four, valued at $240 and won by Donna Tidwell. Members not present when

their name was called for the Chamber jackpot were: Anissa Johnson, Bobbie Wingo and Don Lawson. Thanks to all those who contributed the other many door prizes!

AUGUST AFTER HOURS INFORMATION ON PAGE 14

Immigration Law Seminar Thursday, August 11 at 6:30 p.m. The Chamber’s Hudgins Room 1709 Highway 20 West McDonough, GA 30253

“Georgia’s New Immigration Law & It’s Impact on Business” Featured Speakers are: State Representative Matt Ramsey (R) HD 72 (pictured left) and State Representative Andy Welch (R) HD 110 (pictured right) The Chamber is pleased to provide our members with an opportunity to gain further insight into the complex immigration law and its resulting impact on our businesses. Matt Ramsey, author of HB 87 and expert on the subject, along with Andy Welch, who represents Henry County in the Georgia General Assembly, will highlight both the process and the resulting immigration law, along with ramifications for our county’s businesses.

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National Transportation Expert Visits Atlanta and McDonough for Georgia Commuter Rail First New Trains Could Roll Within Five Years, Promote Economic Development Nationally renowned transit specialist and Brooking’s Institute fellow Christopher Leinberger visited Atlanta and McDonough on Wednesday, July 20, to discuss opportunities for Georgia to build Georgia Commuter Rail through the use of Transportation SPLOST funding and Federal grants at a Georgians for Passenger Rail event in downtown Atlanta and at a luncheon meeting sponsored by Georgians for Passenger Rail and the Henry County Chamber of Commerce in the Hudgins Room at the Chamber. The Georgia Commuter Rail is a viable rail line from Atlanta to Griffin that’s the quickest, least expensive option for new rail transit in Georgia. The first phase of the commuter rail line could be operational within five years, Leinberger said, and would immediately promote economic development along the rail corridor. The first phase also would be the main line coming into the planned Multimodal Passenger Terminal (MMPT) in downtown Atlanta, helping make the MMPT a truly transformational project for Georgia. “Atlanta’s legendary transportation and real estate issues must be addressed with creative solutions. Demographic shifts and global trends in technology are changing lifestyles, and Atlanta must embrace these changes,” Leinberger said. “Georgia is poised to engage with these issues in a new way with the planned multi-modal terminal and its

connecting commuter rail line. The emerging Transportation SPLOST projects being considered across the state could be a seismic shift forward for Georgia.” Considered one of the nation’s top urban thinkers and land use strategists, Leinberger is an author, developer and real estate consultant. Leinberger also serves as president of Locus, a national coalition of real estate developers and investors who believe transportation drives development and who advocate for sustainable, walkable development in towns and cities. or expanded their rail systems in the last decade. Georgia is already los “Train tracks from Atlanta to Ma- ing market share because of its lack con already exist, and $80 million in of transportation options. Accordfederal funds have been earmarked for ing to a 2011 On Numbers study that this project,” said Gordon Kenna, chief analyzed 65 metros with populations executive officer of Georgians for Pas- above 800,000, searching for qualities senger Rail. “This is our best chance for that would appeal to workers in their bringing commuter rail to Georgia to- 20s and early 30s, Atlanta dropped from day. If we say no, we’re walking away the 5th to 52nd most desirable metro area from federal funds for transit at a time for young adults in the last five years. when Atlanta and the state desperately need more transportation funding.” “All transformational projects require a first step,” said Kenna. “Geor The biggest trend in U.S. econom- gia Commuter Rail is the most intelic and market development is passen- ligent first step to helping solve the ger rail. Seattle, Denver, Dallas, Char- state’s transportation, growth and lotte and other markets all have built economic development challenges.”

About Georgians for Passenger Rail Georgians for Passenger Rail is a private sector group committed to the belief that a fully developed passenger rail system is critical for Georgia to continue a regional leadership role in the Southeast. For more information about Georgians for Passenger Rail and the Georgia Commuter Rail, visit georgiarail.org.

Mr. Leinberger concluded his remarks with reasons to ensure the Atlanta-Macon line is on the list of projects for the 2012 Regional T-SPLOST referendum: 1) it is the only transit project south of I-20; 2) it will connect the often-referred-to “two Georgias”; 3) only this project currently has federal funds earmarked for it – use it or lose it; 4) local public and private value capture can substantially contribute to capital and operating costs; and 5) most importantly, the potential to become a “favored quarter” to the south of Atlanta. “This is a 20-40 year investment that is necessary for Atlanta’s future – Get Out The Vote!”

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FINANCIAL FOCUS

13 This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Don’t Let Low Rates Sink Your Retirement Plans Over the past few years, if you’ve taken out a mortgage or another consumer loan, you’ve probably welcomed the low interest rates you may have received. But as an investor, if you’ve kept any retirement savings in fixedrate investment vehicles, you may have seen low rates in a less favorable light. And that’s why it may be time for you take a closer look at your financial strategy for working toward the retirement lifestyle you’ve envisioned. Of course, you can always hope that interest rates will rise, and perhaps they will. As you may know, the Federal Reserve has kept interest rates at record lows in recent years to stimulate lending and thereby boost the economy. But rates can’t get much lower, and if inflation were to heat up, the Fed could re-

verse course by starting to raise rates. However, if you’re going to do a good job of building financial assets for retirement, you really can’t afford to play “wait-and-see” with interest rates. Instead, consider the following moves: • Rebalance your portfolio. No matter what your situation, it’s a good idea to periodically rebalance your investment portfolio to help ensure it still reflects your risk tolerance, time horizon and long-term goals. If you’re concerned about low rates harming your future investment income, you have more reason than ever to review your portfolio and make adjustments as needed, relative to your objectives. For example, if it seems that your portfolio has become “overweighted” in any one vehicle, you may need to

change your investment mix, keeping in mind your individual risk tolerance. • Redefine “retirement.” Retiring from one career doesn’t have to mean retiring from work altogether. If you decide to work part time, do some consulting or even open your own small business, you may be able to earn enough income to take some of the “pressure” off your investment portfolio in terms of providing you with the money you need to live on during retirement. Also, by working during your nominal retirement years, you may be able to delay taking Social Security until you’re a little older, when your monthly checks can be larger. • Review your withdrawal strategy. During your retirement, the amount you choose to withdraw from your investments each year will depend on

several factors, including the size of your portfolio and the amount of income it is providing. As you chart your retirement strategy, you’ll need to factor in a realistic withdrawal rate. • Re-examine sources of investment income. You may want part of your retirement income to come from investments that offer protection of principal. If so, you don’t have to settle for the lowestrate vehicles. By looking at the various alternatives and blending them with your overall portfolio, you may be able to boost your income without significantly increasing your investment risk. In short, just because interest rates are low, you don’t have to lower your retirement expectations — as long as you plan ahead and explore your options.

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Purchase of Tara Field A Wise Decision for Henry County’s Future The recent purchase of Tara Field, an airport located near the Atlanta Motor Speedway in Hampton by the Henry County Board of Commissioners is expected to encourage economic growth that will be good for today’s residents and businesses – as well as attracting potential new residents and businesses. Along with excellent medical facilities, educational institutions, infrastructure, and proximity to Atlanta, adding an airport to our portfolio serves to make Henry County even more viable to those considering locating here. “This potential is precisely why Henry County made the acquisition of Tara Field one of its chief strategies in its Economic Development Plan completed in 2009. And it is also why Henry County is acting now, with budgets as tight as they are, to purchase the facility,” noted county officials. “But there is another major reason for making the acquisition now: the County has been able to take advantage of an infusion of funding from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that amounts to approximately 85 percent of the total purchase amount, thereby putting minimum burden on local taxpayers in making this key investment to Henry

County’s economic future.” “We applaud the visionary leadership, timely decision making and wise negotiations of the BOC,” commented Chamber Board of Directors Chairman Taylor Rice. “With proper planning and execution, this action can result in more jobs, travel options and distribution services. Airports support business development in many ways like highways and railroads do.” Says HCCC President, Kay Pippin, “there’s an old adage “A mile of highway gets you one mile, but a mile of runway can take you anywhere.” Aviation encourages business growth and expansion especially in areas where commercial airlines don’t have regularly scheduled flights. Aviation is crucial to many companies because through aviation, materials, workers and a wide variety of consumers are all within reach. Despite tough economic times, Henry County has had three major successes thus far in 2011…. the nearly complete partnership of Henry Medical Center with Piedmont Hospital, the soon to be constructed Southern Crescent Technical College, and now, the purchase of Tara Field. Each of these major infrastructure investments can only mean good things for our community’s future economic well-being.

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS August Business After Hours Hosted by

Thursday, August 25 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm ABC Montessori – Academy for the Brilliant Child 483 Walker Drive McDonough It’s that time of year already – school is on the minds of parents throughout Henry County. ABC Montessori School offers residents an alternative to public school, serving children ages 18 months through 12th grade. It’s mission is to guide every child in discovering their fullest, unique potential while flourishing intellectually, physically and culturally, preparing them with a strong foundation for making their way in the world. Come and meet the staff and visit the school’s facilities, located on historic Walker Farm. There will be a jackpot drawing for members, so bring plenty of business cards. ABC Montessori is off I-75 exit 216 (Highway 155), toward Griffin, go 2.4 miles and turn right onto Walker Drive, go 1 mile and turn left onto Klinetop Drive. The school is first drive on the right.

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Have your Employees Trained as Customer Service Specialists & as Henry County Experts Openings are still available for the upcoming “Tourism Academy” hosted by Henry County Chamber of Commerce/Convention and Visitors Bureau. This one-day class is designed to train and educate employees of our member businesses who interact with the public.The program will provide them with: • Basic customer service tips and training • A familarization tour of Henry County attractions • An overview and appreciation for tourism’s impact on Henry County Businesses interested in registering employees for the class should contact Laura Luker at (770) 957-5786 or lluker@henrycounty.com.

Date: August 23, 2011 Time: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Where: HCCC Hudgins Room Cost: $15 (includes breakfast and lunch)

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I am a lucky woman.

I survived a heart attack.

Terri George Locust Grove

Ultimately, state-of-the-art cardiovascular technology is not about science. It is about people. Lives, families, friends. It is about you. So, yes, we have leading edge equipment and skilled professionals in cardiovascular careâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;including coronary angioplastyâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;and many other fields. But we also have a deep personal interest. We are part of the Henry County community. And we know that the next life, family, or friend could be ours. Read patient stories at