January 2014 HCCC Newsletter

henrycounty.com a henry county chamber of commerce publication

JANUARY 2014

YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS

Hampton • Locust Grove • McDonough • Stockbridge

in this issue Chairman’s Message 2 Business Profile 3 Calendar 4 Holiday Party 6 Henry Happenings 7 Annual Belles, Bulls, and Buck$ 10 Leadership Henry 10 Business After Hours 11 Business Boosters Luncheon 12 Ribbon Cuttings / YLH 13 Chamber Briefs 14 Chamber Membership 14

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.

Welcome New Members of HCCC Board of Directors

Henry Countyerce’s m Chamber of Ceotming / Dinner 47th Annual Me

vvv the Order your tickets for today! /Dinner 47th Annual Meeting vvv February 1, 2014 try Club Eagle’s Landing Coun Grand Ballroom ner – 7:00 pm in D • m p 0 :3 6 – r a Cash B vvv To purchase tickets, sit -5786 or vi 7 5 -9 0 7 7 t a e n ia D ll ca AnnualBanquet C C C 4H 01 /2 es ag /p www.henrycounty.com . for a Ticket Order Form

The Henry County Chamber of Commerce (HCCC) is pleased to announce the Board of Directors Class of 2016. The newly –elected Board members were invited to participate in the annual Board of Directors planning retreat held in October as a means of orientation to the Board. Members of the Class of 2016 begin their term effective January 2014.

Steve Nail, Nail Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.

Shane Persaud, Communities In Schools of Henry County

Denise Sowell, Cap1tol Street Financial Services Group

Toni Davis, Individual Member

Wayne Lowrey, United Community Bank

Melissa Malcom, Melissa P. Malcom, LLC

Chamber members hold ribbon cutting ceremonies that are publicized in the Henry Daily Herald, on the Chamber’s website and on the Chamber’s Facebook page?

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Chairman’s Message

Make 2014 A Year of Positive Change…

Charlie Scott

It’s time to open a new calendar and begin a new year. That often is a time of reflection and looking inward. Many of us will see the opportunity to do some things differently. We will make a resolution to either stop or start something in our personal lives. It’s a time to consider the possibility that we can do better simply by doing something differently.

Perhaps we can apply that principle to our professional lives as well. Maybe we should reflect and ask as business owners and leaders what results we would like to see this year. It’s only then that we can plan to achieve our desired outcome. As Stephen Covey encouraged, we should “Begin with the end in mind.”

When Eddie Ausband passes the gavel to me as Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Henry County Chamber of Commerce, change takes place. We begin this year at the Chamber with a new Chairman, and new President and CEO and a year ahead that will offer several opportunities for change and growth.

However, those changes will only occur if we do some things differently.

Many of us resist change; however, growth usually requires that we make changes. Is there something that YOU as a Chamber member can do differently that

can have the opportunity to help expand your business, realize efficiencies, bring more customers to your door, or enable you to sell more products? What if you could do those things without additional cost? There are many ways that Chamber membership can help you do just that.

The featured topic for the January 16 Business Boosters Luncheon at the Chamber is “Maximize Your Chamber Membership.”

When you attend you will learn ways that the Chamber membership you already enjoy can help you to save costs in: providing healthcare; workers’ compensation; communications and marketing, just to name a few areas. Your membership also affords many opportunities for you to network with fellow business owners and potential customers and/or those who can refer customers to you – but only if you take advantage of those opportunities.

Charlie Scott is President and CEO of Piedmont Henry

You can receive training on topics pertinent to your business. You can utilize the services of SCORE and the Small Business Development Center. YOU can make the difference – if you make the change!

Chamber members support and promote one another. The Chamber supports and promotes its members. The Chamber facilitates communications about your events, your job openings and provides you the opportunity to offer discounts to encourage business.

Through Chamber membership you receive discounts on several infrastructure items such as office supplies, Constant Contact, and soonto-be-offered credit card processing. A small business has the potential to more than pay for Chamber membership dues with the savings reaped from such benefits.

According to Albert Einstein, “Insanity is the act of doing the same thing while expecting a different result.” Do you want a different result?

Could it be time for you to do something different for a change? Why not make a resolution to get more involved in the Chamber and to maximize the benefits memberhip offers? It doesn’t have to cost you any more, yet it has the potential to deliver great rewards.

Let’s make 2014 a year of POSITIVE change.

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Business Profile

Quality Inn & Suites Conference Center – McDonough About the Company The Quality Inn & Suites Conference Center, a loyal Chamber member since 1996, is located off Highway 155 in McDonough. The hotel is part of the Choice Hotel International franchise. It is conveniently located just off Interstate 75 and is only 25 miles south of Atlanta, as well as in close proximity to the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The hotel is only 10 miles from the Atlanta Motor Speedway and is nearby Heritage Park, the McDonough Square, Tanger Outlet Center, Summit Racing Equipment, Nash Farm Battlefield and South Point Mall.

The hotel located in Henry County in 1969 as part of the Holiday Inn chain before switching to the Choice Hotel franchise in 2004. The facility employs seven full-time and eight part-time employees.

Hotel guests can enjoy outdoor activities at nearby Indian Springs State Park, High Falls State Part, Cherokee Rose Sporting Resort and the Sandy Ridge BMX course, along with the many other parks, historic and tourist attractions Henry County affords.

This hotel boasts one of the most affordable event facilities in Henry

County and its conference center accommodates routine training seminars, rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions, holiday parties and a variety of business and social gatherings in its attractive, professional setting.

Southern hospitality abounds at this McDonough hotel, where guests enjoy full-service amenities including a free hot breakfast; free local calls; free newspaper; and free wireless high-speed internet access; a seasonal outdoor pool; exercise room; fax and copy services; and meeting rooms.

Spacious guest rooms include: refrigerator; microwave; coffee maker; hair dryer; iron; ironing board; and satellite TV. The two-room suites offer two bathrooms and two-line telephones as well as two TVs. Pets are welcome, with a small stay fee. A coin-operated laundry facility and valet dry cleaning services are provided. “Most of all,” says Ms. Mills, “our staff provides our guests the experience of true southern hospitality, showing them the ‘friendly side’ of our place in Atlanta.”

The Quality Inn & Suites in McDonough is the proud recipient of The Choice Hotel International’s Platinum Award for the years, 2008;

2009; 2010; 2011; 2013 and Gold in 2012. The hotel consistently rates in the top 5% of all Quality Hotels worldwide.

Of interest is the fact that The Quality Inn & Suites was one of the sites used for the filming of ABC Television’s upcoming series, “Resurrection.” Be sure to look for the hotel in scenes when the series premieres in early 2014.

Community Support The Quality Inn Hotel & Suites is actively involved with the Henry County Chamber of Commerce’s Convention & Visitor’s Bureau (CVB), where Ms. Mills serves on the Board of Directors.

Chamber Involvement “Being part of the Chamber of Commerce and the CVB keeps us updated on things that are occurring in our community,” says Ms. Mills.

“I would encourage all businesses in Henry County to join the Chamber and to become an active partner of the Chamber.”

For more information about the Quality Inn & Suites Conference Center: (770) 957-5291 Gm.ga462@choicehotels.com www.choicehotels.com//hotel/ga462

Pam Mills, General Manager

Sponsor The 2014 STAR Breakfast Student / Teacher Appreciation Recognition

The Henry County Chamber of Commerce Education Committee is proud to once again host Henry County’s STAR Breakfast at 8 a.m. on February 27, 2014 at Eagle’s Landing Country Club. During the annual event, Chamber officials will honor our county’s 2014 STAR Students and Teachers. Chamber members are invited to show support for the STAR Breakfast by sponsoring at one of the following levels:

Supernova

— $500 — Recognized at the STAR Breakfast, newspaper articles, STAR printed program, and on HCCC website as a premier sponsor Three of your representatives may attend the breakfast and have your picture taken with the STAR student and STAR teacher for the press release

Shining Star

— $300 — Recognized at the STAR Breakfast, on the STAR printed program, and on HCCC website Two of your representatives may attend the breakfast

Rising Star

— $150 — Recognized at the STAR Breakfast, on the STAR printed program, and on HCCC website One representative may attend the breakfast

Contact the Chamber at (770) 957-5786 for additional information.

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JANUARY 2014 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

1 CHAMBER CLOSED

thursday

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Friday

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Saturday

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8 AM Youth Leadership Henry BOD, BR

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8 AM Leadership Henry BOD, BR

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20 CHAMBER CLOSED INFO

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21 8:30 AM CVB BOD, BR 10 AM Membership Committee, BR 11:30 AM HCCC Exec Commitee, BR

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10 AM Small Business Council, BR 11 AM Business Boosters Luncheon, HR

3:30 PM Community Connections Committee, BR

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11:30 AM Government Affairs Comm, HR

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8:30 AM Golf Comm, BR

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22 7:30 AM HCCC BOD, BR Noon, Ambassadors Luncheon

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5:30 PM Business After Hours at Fidelity Bank

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8:30 AM Education Committee, BR

Chamber Staff David Gill, President and CEO Laura Luker, Director of Tourism Diane Ide, Director of Communications Gary Sparrow, Membership Director Phyllis Reeves, Information Specialist 2014 Board of Directors Executive Committee Charlie Scott, Chairman, Piedmont Henry June Wood, Chair Elect, Individual Member Leonard Moreland, Secretary/Treasurer, Heritage Bank Eddie Ausband, Immediate Past Chair, The Ausband Agency, Inc. Brad Thomas, Vice Chair for Economic & Cultural Development, Snapping Shoals EMC William Strickland, Vice Chair for Chamber Development, Bellamy-Strickland Chevrolet-Buick-GMC

Shane Persaud, Vice Chair for Government & Education Jeff Mills, CVB Chair David Gill, HCCC President and CEO

CLASS OF 2014 James Chafin, Henry County State Court Lisa Kinchen, Southern Journal Magazine Leonard Moreland, Heritage Bank David Pittman, Bennett International Group William Strickland, Bellamy-Strickland Chevrolet-Buick-GMC Brad Thomas, Snapping Shoals EMC

CLASS OF 2015 Herschel Arant, Central Georgia EMC Greg Hammonds, Whaley Hammonds Tomasello John Newman, Classic Landscapes, Inc. Rhett Tucker, Checks Superstore

Laura Turner, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta June Wood, Individual Member CLASS OF 2016 Toni Davis, Individual Member Wayne Lowrey, United Community Bank Melissa Malcom, Melissa P. Malcom, LLC Steve Nail, Nail Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Shane Persaud, Communities In Schools of Henry County Denise Sowell, Cap1tol Street Financial Services Group

Ex Officio Members Tommy Smith, Chairman, HC Board of Commissioners Mayor Billy Copeland, City of McDonough Mayor Robert Price, City of Locust Grove Mayor Steve Hutcheson, City of Hampton Mayor Tim Thompson, City of Stockbridge

Dr. Ethan Hildreth, Superintendent, Henry County Schools Bill Herndon, Chairman, Henry County Development Authority Roderick Burch, Henry County Water Authority Mary Evans-Battle, Chair, Leadership Henry CHAIR APPOINTEES Rod Meadows, Meadows & Macie, PC Nick Williams, Eagle’s Landing Family Practice

IF YOU WANT TO KNOW WHO’S ACCOUNTABLE, JUST READ THE NAME ON THE DOOR. “For 40 years, Strawn & Co., Insurance has operated under the vision and values set by my father. He held himself directly accountable for the success of his clients, valuing relationships much more than transactions.

I saw his integrity in action, sometimes at the expense of the company - but always what he thought was right. He built his name upon the respect and honesty of these long-term partnerships. And as a Strawn, I couldn’t work any other way.”

- Rusty Strawn, President

PROUDLY OFFERING PERSONAL, BUSINESS & HEALTH INSURANCE As an independent insurance agency, Strawn & Co., Insurance is free to focus on what really counts: providing your family and/ or business with the most comprehensive coverages and competitive premiums available. This type of focus for our customers has kept Strawn & Co., Insurance one of the leading providers of property, casualty, life & health insurance in south Atlanta.

HenryCounty.com

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How to Make 2014 a GameChanging Year

By Heather Chaney, Program Coordinator Clayton State University Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Small business owners are trying to claim end of year tax exemptions, plan next year’s sales goals, and develop a strategy for the coming year. What sales, personal, or philanthropic goals are you setting for 2014?

Entrepreneurs should start by reflecting on their wins and losses in 2013 before attempting to plan for 2014. Just as a sports team examines results after each game, a company should look back on each quarter and strategize for the upcoming year. Your resolutions (goals) should start with

your SWOT analysis.

Strengths: What worked for you in 2013? What does your company do best?

What is your competitive advantage?

What are you known for? Are your strengths verbalized in your branding and marketing? Do potential customers know that you hire bonded electricians because you want your customers to feel safe at home alone with one of your employees?

Weaknesses: Where does your company fall short? Where have you dropped the ball in the past year? Did you lose a major client, employee, or business partner? While no one likes to admit their failures, reflecting on what went wrong will help your company rebound and be a stronger competitor in 2014.

Opportunities: What opportunities are available right now? Are you so busy looking to the future that you miss the

low hanging fruit right in front of you?

Are you prepared to take advantage of a new trend or prospect? Entrepreneurs should know their core competencies and competitive advantages (strengths) so well that they can pounce at any given opportunity.

Threats: What are your competitors doing? Are you following in their footsteps? Is there new competition in your industry? What is your kryptonite?

What could shutter your doors tomorrow? While I am not suggesting a doomsday scenario for your business or industry, what could be a game changer? Are you taking steps to avoid potential threats or at least developing contingency plans?

If you need help with your SWOT analysis or are seeking confidential consulting, contact your local SBDC office at 678-466-5100 or morrow@ georgiasbdc.org.

BELLAMY-STRICKLAND Chevrolet • Buick • Pontiac • GMC Trucks

Call or Come in Today!

16 Hampton Street McDonough, GA 30253

770-957-9005

BELLAMY STRICKLAND

I-75 . 155 Hwy McDonough

I-75 • Exit 216 145 Industrial Blvd.

McDonough, GA

770 -954-3000

HenryCounty.com

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What Better Place to Celebrate the Holidays Than The “Holiday” Inn?

For the third consecutive year, Nick and Jay Patel have empowered Kim Krumm, Marketing Director with The Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites – Stockbridge, to host a Holiday Party for The Henry County Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses. The hotel’s restaurant, On The Roxx, once again served up a delicious buffet complete with a carving station and beverage bar. The hotel’s atrium featured a beautifully decorated Christmas tree where 51 door prizes/ “presents” were distributed by a very entertaining James Wojnowski as The Grinch.

Over 175 participants enjoyed the holiday festivities as they mingled

and jingled, taking photos and “selfies” with the Grinch. One of the Chamber’s fun-filled events, the Holiday Party offers a comfortable setting for networking and meeting new people. Multiple people won photo sessions and portraits by Pro Studio, while several took home $50 or $25 gift cards to a variety of businesses. Many other gifts, gift baskets and services were also awarded. Lucky Pat Bryant, who works with Bobby Dodd Institute, took home the 32” flatscreen TV given by The Holiday Inn. Wayne Easler, with Easler Construction, won a Samsung Galaxy Tablet donated by Premier Restoration.

In addition to the beautiful setting, the delicious food and the many presents, the participation of The Grinch contributes to the success of the event. “The Grinch adds so much to the party atmosphere; he certainly has the part down pat,” commented Kevin Smith with Toppan Interamerica, Inc. As the presents were awarded, The Grinch posed with and taunted each winner.

The Henry County Chamber of Commerce wishes to thank The Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites – Stockbridge and its restaurant, On The Roxx, for their generosity and continued support for the Chamber.

“In addition to great lodging, this is

a wonderful place to host an event, or take someone for a special dinner,” remarked David Gill, Chamber President and CEO. Thanks also go to Flour Power for providing wonderful desserts; to Absolutely Flowers for the beautiful centerpiece and table florals; to The Grinch, James Wojnowski; and to all the Chamber members who contributed to the fun with door prizes.

Most participants posed with The Grinch and then raced the next day to the Chamber’s Facebook page to capture and repost their photos. The event supplied the opportunity for the Chamber to wish the Happiest of Holidays to all its members!

HenryCounty.com

Holiday fun, continued.

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it’s happening in Henry Comfortably South of Atlanta Gift of Lights Through January 4 Atlanta Motor Speedway

Celebrate the holiday season as Atlanta Motor Speedway turns into one of the area’s biggest drivethrough Christmas light parks! NEW for this year, the route will take visitors on a portion of the famed 1.54 mile oval. For more information visit www.

Legends Races atlantamotorspeedway.com.

January 11 & 25 Atlanta Motor Speedway

Panola Mountain’s First Day Hike January 1 – 2:00 p.m.

Panola Mountain State Park

Make a fresh start on the New Year. Join a park ranger on a journey by writing out, then burning, last year’s burdens. Hike to the top of the mountain picturing all the great things you will accomplish in 2014. Finish around a campfire sharing hot chocolate and plans for the New Year. Register in advance. $7 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

Atlanta Audubon Society Bird Walk January 26 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Panola Mountain State Park

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. Each event features multiple classes of Legends and Bandolero racing. Fans can purchase infield passes at the Security Command building near the speedway’s main entrance. Infield access costs just $12 for adults, $5 for children ages six through 11 and admission is free for children ages five and younger. Cost to race is just $25. Minors and their guardians are required to complete a minor waiver before children ages 17 and younger can enter the infield; the waiver and instructions can be found at www.atlantamotorspeedway.com.

For more information, visit www.legendsofga.com or www.atlantamotorspeedway.com.

Bring your binoculars for this gentle hike through the park’s Power of Flight area. Basic identification techniques and common birds will be discussed.

Good for all ages. We recommend long pants and Locust Grove Train Watering Platform sleeves. Meet at the Alexander Lake Area. Register in Ribbon Cutting – Jan. 31, 2:00 p.m. advance. Donations of birdseed are appreciated. $5 Downtown Locust Grove parking. 770-389-7801.

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

Billy Copeland, Mayor

22 N. Zack Hinton Parkway McDonough, Georgia 30253

Henry County Chamber of Commerce Convention & Visitors Bureau

770-957-3915

1709 Highway 20 West Westridge Business Center McDonough, GA 30253

770-957-5786

Eddie Ausband, CFP 8 Macon Street McDonough, GA 30253 770.389.9060 x102 eausband@revanta.com

City of Stockbridge Tim Thompson, Mayor 770-389-7910

FIRE & WATER- CLEANUP & RESTORATION 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

Every LIFE has a story.

Celebrate it!

Danny Brown General Manager

ethan.hildreth@henry.k12.ga.us

770-946-8088 Nail-Air.com

City of McDonough

Henry County’s choice for

OF CLAYTON COUNTY OF DECATUR OF HENRY & SPALDING COUNTIES

770-775-7857 www.cgemc.com

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

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

Nationally Known - Locally Owned

Greg Cannon

770-914-1414

www.cannonclevelandfunerals.com

Companion Care Cremation Services

910 Dailey Mill Road McDonough, GA 30253

770-692-3819 Greg Cannon

“Lillie”

owner

www.companioncarega.com

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.

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McDonough

McDonough 865 Hwy.20/81 West 865 Hwy.20/81 West McDonough, GA 30253

McDonough, GA 30253 770-898-1988 770-898-1988

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

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

StockbriDge

StockbriDge 850 Eagles Lndg. Pkwy.

850 Eagles Lndg.

Pkwy.

Stockbridge, GA 30281 Stockbridge, GA 30281 770-507-5855 770-507-5855

LocuSt grove

LocuSt grovePkwy.

4870 Bill Gardner 4870 BillGrove, Gardner Locust HAPkwy.

30248 Locust Grove, HA 30248

770-288-3500

770-288-3500

HenryCounty.com

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Leadership Henry Economic Development Day – Dec. 11, 2013 The class enjoyed breakfast provided by the Henry County Development Authority, who’s Director, Bob White, accompanied them to the GA Department of Economic Development in Atlanta. They got an overview of the State’s efforts to promote economic development in our communities, as well as specific things GA Power and the Electric Membership Corporations do in this regard. After the EMC-provided lunch, they learned about Henry County’s development

program from Mr. White and Leah Brown. That afternoon they did an industry tour at the Behr Process Corporation and wrapped up with an overview of the film industry in Henry County, presented by Tourism Director, Laura Luker. What a great day to learn about some of the many exciting things happening in our community to ensure its economy grows and that we continue to be a great place to live, work, and play!

Behr Process Corporation plant tour

Dancing Bulls & Running Belles

Date set for 2nd Annual Belles, Bulls & Buck$

In wintery January it is nice to plan for springtime fun.

Things to ponder as you plan are: How much fun can you have in 8 seconds?

How fast can someone run in a hoop skirt?

How would you spend $5,000?

The Henry County Chamber hopes to help answer these questions with the 2nd Annual Belles, Bulls & Bucks event scheduled for Friday, April 25, 2014 at Southern Belle Farm.

Last year set the groundwork for the most fun event of the year, and 2014 promises to be even bigger and better. Not only will there be great food and beverages, mechanical bull rides, and a $5,000 grand prize, but new this year, enjoy country fair style games such as cow chip bingo, games of chance and the opportunity to watch some of Henry County’s finest as they don wigs and hoop skirts for the First Annual “Running of the Belles.” May the best “belle” win!

Tickets will be $50 per person and will be available beginning in February.

Want to nominate someone to be a “Running of the Belles” contender? Email Laura Luker at lluker@henrycounty.com. Ten nominees will be selected and the six top grossing competitors will battle it out for the first place ribbon at Southern Belle Farm.

SAVE THE DATE -- More information will be available soon.

Leadership Henry class attends briefing on regional water use The Leadership Henry Class of 2014 attended the “Movers, Shakers, and Policymakers briefing: Water under the Gold Dome” at the Capitol on November 20. Class members were able to hear from Rep. Lynn Smith about the legislative work that her House committee, Natural Resources and Environment, has done, and plans to work on, regarding water use, planning, and conservation.

Plans were also heard from three groups that are each working on water use as they communicated for the betterment of our state: The Natural Resources Division of the Atlanta Regional Commission, the Association of Water Professionals, and the Georgia Conservancy.

The class learned the importance of conservation,

the various initiatives that are underway (both legal and projects) to ensure our region has water for the future, and the potential that events such as Hurricane Katrina, and the Savannah river project have to impact that supply.

The class enjoyed a great lunch at 15th Street Pizza, and went to the Henry County Water Authority to learn about the excellent way that they have managed water resources locally; and the way that they will continue to provide for our water needs of the future.

It was an informative day spent hearing how the valuable resource of water is being managed by many groups at both state and local levels. Every class member is sure to reflect the next time they turn on the faucet at home!

Leadership Henry Class of 2014 at the Capitol.

HenryCounty.com

business AFTER HOURS

At The January Business After Hours Hosted By

Thursday, January 23rd • 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Fidelity’s McDonough Branch 1375 Highway 20 West (770) 914-4300 Beat the Winter Blues! Join the Henry County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours at Fidelity Bank on Thursday, January 23rd from 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm for a chance to warm up, have fun and network. This After Hours event is sure to thaw out your winter chill. Come out to have some fun with colleagues, fellow chamber members, and new friends. Fidelity will have appetizers, wine, beer and some great door prizes. Put it on your calendar today!

Business After Hours are monthly networking

events hosted by Chamber members for current and potential Chamber members and invited guests (adults only please). The events are free and you do not need to RSVP to attend.

Bring plenty of business cards for networking and for a chance at the door prizes. Don’t forget the drawing for the Chamber Business After Hours Jackpot – the lucky winner whose name is drawn must be present in order to win.

January’s jackpot resumes at $300!

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An Advertising Home Run! What event brings more than 40,000 people into Henry County, fills hotel rooms and contributes more than $14 million in economic impact each year? If you guessed youth sports tournaments, you would be right! Each year more than 30 softball, baseball and soccer tournaments are played in Henry County, with a large portion of the teams coming from outside Henry County and out-of-state. In fact, for the past three straight years Henry County has hosted the “Largest Single Weekend Amateur Sports Tournament in the United States” during March.

This year the Henry County Convention & Visitors Bureau is teaming up with the Henry County Parks and Recreation Department to develop new ways to make these visitors aware of YOUR business. A variety of sponsorship options are available and may include an onsite presence at the fields, welcoming the teams via the PA system during opening ceremonies and other options. To learn more about the opportunities available, visit www.visithenrycountygeorgia.com/ tournaments. For questions, contact Laura Luker at (770) 957-5786 or lluker@henrycounty.com.

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business

Boosters luncheon

January Business Boosters Luncheon Henry County Chamber Hudgins Room January 16, 2014 • 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Maximizing Your Chamber Membership You’ve paid your dues and joined the Chamber – now what? Ask not what the Chamber can do for you, but what YOU can do using the Chamber as a resource! Did you know that the Chamber can be part of your marketing strategy? Did you know that the Chamber can advocate for your business? Or that the Chamber enables you to purchase health insurance at a lower cost? Or that if your business doesn’t have a website that you can use your page on the Chamber website? Did you know that a Chamber ribbon cutting gets you in the paper three times! Or that you can do a televised spot on SCB-TV that runs for a full week?

There are a host of networking and training opportunities and so much more that you can receive from your Chamber investment. Join us and find out how to make your membership work for you. The cost for this catered lunch is $12 for Chamber members who register and pay online or $15 at the door and $20 for non-members who register and pay online or $23 at the door. Reservations are required for planning purposes and can be made and paid online at www.henrycounty.com. Go to the Events calendar, then the BBL for January 16. To cover catering costs, no-shows will be billed.

Making Your Business Memorable!

The November 21 Business Boosters Luncheon program was a “Show and Tell” event enabling member businesses to practice their elevator speech about their business in combination with a unique presentation, or memorable item that would cause attendees to recall their business or service when needed.

The program began with a winning presentation by The School Newsletter as three reps read a story/poem in parts, highlighting their creativity. Premier Restoration marketing reps donned hard hats and construction aprons as they pulled items from a box that illustrated what could go wrong at a home or business that could cause the need for their services. Tim Mullins

with PinStrikes Entertainment Center went through at least three outfits in front of audience eyes as he illustrated that his business can host anything from children’s parties, to office parties, to formal affairs, with catering to match each category. These top three presenters received gift cards.

Participants learned about everything from how to diagnose tree roots in water lines to how radiation is administered; from CPR to travel, SEO to food distribution; about the homeless and needy of Henry County and much, more much. Thanks to all who engaged in this event and made it both fun and informative – as well as memorable!

Door prize donors outdid themselves!

Prizes included a 32” flat-screen TV; UGA football tickets on the 40-yard line; a coveted sitting and complimentary 11 x 14 from Pro Studios; 18 holes plus cart at Eagles Brooke; and several gift cards and gift items. Kevin Swank, President of Premier Restoration, drew the name of Beverly Van Gorder for the TV donated by his company. Genie Griffin won the golf outing donated

by The School Newsletter and Alice Cunningham with Destinations 4 Fun, LLC won the UGA tickets.

TooLooPeas Southern Savory Cuisine, located in Stockbridge, catered the delicious meal. To view the photos from this luncheon, visit the Chamber’s Facebook page.

Winners L-R: Premier Restoration; PinStrikes Entertainment Center, The School Newsletter

Kevin Swank presents Beverly Van Gorder with flat-screen TV donated by Premier Restoration

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November 14 Subway Locust Grove

December 3 Sweet Serenity SSI, Inc.

December 4 Ohio Christian University

December 6 The Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity ReStore

4629 Bill Gardner Parkway Locust Grove, GA 30248 Contact: Firoze Jiwani (770) 914-8444 www.locustgrovesubway.com

P.O. Box 556 McDonough, GA 30253 Contact: Deborah Sims (678) 301-0390 www.sweetserenityssi.org

1550 Southlake Parkway Morrow, GA 30260 Contact: Shawn Thomas (404) 324-6478 www.ohiochristian.edu

1465 Highway 20 West McDonough, GA 30253 Contact: Jason Floyd (770) 477-2367 www.schabitat.org

Youth Leadership Henry Public Safety/Education Day The class started out on the morning of December 7th at HCFD Fire Station No. 1, where they actually saw firemen respond to a call right after they arrived. After that exciting start, class members learned about the various vehicles, equipment, and cross-training that is required to make our fire department successful.

The next stop was the Emergency Operations Center, where they learned how EOC operators work behind the scenes to ensure that our county is prepared for, and can respond to a variety of disasters. They learned

how 911 calls are received and dispatched, and even got to speak with the dispatcher that did the call they saw earlier at the fire station!

At the Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff McBrayer discussed the mission and history of his office and the jail, and took the class on a tour of the facility. They then visited the Academy for Advanced Studies (AAS).

At the AAS, the youth enjoyed a wonderful lunch prepared by second- and third-year culinary arts students, while hearing about the variety of advanced CTAE programs offered at AAS,

Dottie WISE

Associate Broker dottie.wise@metrobrokers.com metrobrokers.com/dottie.wise 404.843.2500 Office 678-443-8407 Direct 404.683.0912 Mobile

as well as the dual-enrollment opportunities available there for Juniors and Seniors. Youth Leadership Henry’s class of Sophomores was very interested

in this topic! They ended the day with a tour of the Academy, where they saw the advanced labs and the interesting equipment that each program uses.

METRO BROKERS 1401 Highway 20 West McDonough, GA 30253

Each Firm is independently Owned and Operated

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January Chamber Briefs ...

Congratulations to:

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP Welcome to our NEW Members

Rodney Bowler on being selected to replace Dr. Ethan Hildreth as Henry County’s new Superintendent of Schools in April. Rodney brings a vast amount of Henry County experience to the role and the Chamber looks forward to working with him to continue to enhance the quality of education for Henry County students.

Harold Cochran, a Stockbridge City Councilman since his win in the 1977 election, who retired at the end of 2013 after 36 years of dedicated service to Stockbridge.

June R. Wood, who retires in January 2014 after 26 years with the Georgia Power Company. As the Metro South External Affairs Manager, June worked diligently to serve and improve the counties she represented. She co-chaired the Chamber’s E2 Task Force, the Chamber’s Education Foundation and will serve as this year’s Chair-Elect to the Chamber’s Board of Directors.

Mark and Nicole Ross with Right at Home on being named that company’s 2013-2014 Rookie of the Year as well as winning the Growth Achievement Award. This is the first time in the company’s history that both awards were earned by the same franchisee! As winners, Mark and Nicole are joining the President’s Circle on a five-day all-inclusive trip to Cabo San Lucus in January 2014.

Eddie Ausband, on being selected to serve as the Citizen District 4 representative on the Atlanta Regional Commission.

Nicole Elkins, on being named the Chamber’s “Ambassador of the Year” for 2013.

Courtyard By Marriott Carolea Campbell 115 Mill Road McDonough, GA 30253 (678) 902-9000

Premier Restoration, Inc Janice Swank 2821 Mt Zion Rd. Jonesboro, GA 30236 (770) 986-9596

Kelbren Hypnotherapy Alvaro Garcia-Sanchez 1300 Pennsylvania Ave McDonough, GA 30253 (678) 457-1686

Wholesale & Liquidation Experts Jessica Mathers 695 Red Oak Rd Stockbridge, GA 30281 (678) 284-9100

Woodmen of the World Carla Reliford 72 Fair Oaks Dr Conyers, GA 30094 (678) 414-6937

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP

To our RENEWING Members 92.5 FM The Bear Allan Vigil Ford Lincoln Mercury Ashley Furniture Home Store Atlanta Falcons Physical Therepy Center Atlanta Festival Ballet Atlanta Motor Speedway Bennett International Group, LLC Bobbie Wingo Buzzzz’N Magazines Canongate Golf Clubs Central Georgia EMC Community Gardens of Henry County, Inc. Connecting Henry, Inc. Filet of Chicken Georgia United Credit Union Griffin Insurance Agency Hamilton State Bank - Locust Grove Henry County Cooperative Extension Henry County Development Authority Henry County Local Emergency Planning Commission Hudson Self Storage

Meadows & Macie, PC Nan Lee Point to Point Land Surveyors, Inc. Preston Creek Apartments PVH Corporation Rob Dunn Rowe’s Tree Service Salvation Army, The Sizemore,Inc. Smith, Welch, Webb & White, LLC Snapping Shoals EMC Sons Honda Stockbridge First United Methodist Church Strawn & Co. Insurance Suesan A. Miller, P.C. Toppan Interamerica, Inc. True Natural Gas United Community Bank Wallace Electric Company Wilensky & Kresses Group

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FINANCIAL FOCUS Financial resolutions for the new year As 2013 comes to a close and we prepare for the New Year, it’s a good time to evaluate where you are on your journey toward a comfortable retirement.

Ask yourself these questions: • “How close am I to my retirement goals?” At least once a year, it’s a good idea to see how far you’ve come toward reaching your retirement savings goals.

• “If I haven’t made much progress this year, should I change my strategy?” When the financial markets are down, you might be disappointed at your results, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you should change your investment mix.

Finally, ask yourself if any

changes you’ve experienced in the past year – such as marriage, a new child or a new job – will affect your long-term retirement strategy.

By answering these questions at the end of each year, you should have a good sense of where you are in pursuit of your retirement goals.

According to a survey from the University of Scranton, about 45 percent of Americans usually make New Year’s resolutions, but only 8 percent of us actually keep them.

Perhaps this low success rate isn’t a tragedy when our resolutions involve things like losing weight or learning a foreign language.

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

When we make financial resolutions – resolutions that, if achieved, could significantly help us in our pursuit of our important long-term goals – it’s clearly worthwhile to make every effort to follow through.

• For starters, resolve to boost your contributions to your retirement plans, such as your IRA and your 401(k). These tax-advantaged accounts can be good options for your retirement savings strategy.

• Try to reduce your debt load.

It’s not always easy, but the lower your debt payments, the more money you’ll have available to invest.

• Build an emergency fund

containing six to 12 months’ worth of living expenses, with the money held in a liquid account.

Such a fund will help you avoid dipping into long-term investments for emergencies, like a new furnace or major car repair.

• Make sure your protection needs are being met with the proper amounts of life and disability insurance.

• Finally, resolve not to overreact to market volatility. You’ll help yourself greatly by following an appropriate investment strategy in every market environment.

Work to turn these resolutions into realities. Your efforts could pay off well beyond 2014.

Is it time to evaluate where you are on your journey toward a comfortable retirement?

Call today to set up a complimentary portfolio review.

New Year’s is a time to reflect on the year past. It is also a time to set goals for the future, and Edward Jones can help you do just that. We’re in your neighborhood and available to help you take steps now to help meet your long-term financial goals.

Financial Advisor Paul D. Rippa 2141 Highway 155 North McDonough, GA 30252 (678) 583-5090

Financial Advisor Lin Watts, AAMS® 305 Olde Towne Way McDonough, GA 30252 (678) 583-1325

Member SIPC

www.edwardjones.com

Financial Advisor John H. Dorminy IV, AAMS® 190 Turner Street McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 957-0250

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