HCCC Newsletter February 2020

A HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUBLICATION | YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS

HENRYCOUNTY.COM HAMPTON • LOCUST GROVE • MCDONOUGH • STOCKBRIDGE FEBRUARY 2020

STRAWN & CO., INSURANCE

HISTORICAL RESIDENCE NOW HQ FOR THREE GENERATIONS PAGE 5

MOVING FROM IDEA TO BUSINESS SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER PAGE 7

ANNUAL CHAMBER MEETING & AWARDS BANQUET PAGE 8

MISSION STATEMENT To serve as a voice for the business community, provide quality service and programs that meet the needs of members, improve the economic environment of the community, and create a legacy of leadership for the future.

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DID YOU KNOW? Do you pay Worker’s Compensation Premiums for your business? You can save 7.5% on your premiums through the Chamber’s Drugs Don’t Work program. We will provide you with all the documents you need to participate in this program as a benefit of your Chamber membership.

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STAR POWER Thank you to all of our sponsors for the Star Breakfast on February 6th. Page 15.

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IN THIS ISSUE

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CHAIR MESSAGE

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MEMBER NEWS

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BUSINESS PROFILE

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LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP

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HENRY HAPPENINGS

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CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP

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MEMBERSHIP SUPPORT

13

QUALITY PROGRAMS

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CHAMBER FEATURE

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

New Chair Christy Chewning shares upcoming opportunities to recognize community members.

Strawn & Co. Insurance.

February 2020 Chamber events!

Moving From Idea To Business.

Alethia Barnes 2019 Ambassador of the Year.

Government Day & Education Day.

Renewing Members, New Members & Elite Members.

February 2020 Business After Hours hosted by Strong Rock Christian School.

A Day at the Capitol & 2020 Census.

2020 Women’s Empowerment Summit.

The Henry County Chamber of Commerce Magazine is published by the Henry County Chamber in partnership with the Henry Herald.

For editorial information contact Barbara Ingram, bingram@henrycounty.com.

For advertising opportunities contact Mary Ann Holland, (770) 957-9161 x223, maryann.holland@henryherald.com.

HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

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MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

CHRISTY CHEWNING Member Engagement Coordinator with Central Georgia EMC 2020 Chair of Henry County Chamber of Commerce

OUR CHAMBER… BELONG. ENGAGE. LEAD. PROSPER. The great poet Dr. Maya Angelou once stated, “How

We will close out February with a trip to Atlanta for Henry

important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and

County Day at the Capitol on February 27, 2020, then leap into

she-roes!” In the coming weeks, we have plenty of opportunities

March, where we will celebrate the she-roes in our community.

to recognize those in our community that make a positive

The Henry County Women’s EmPOWERment Summit is back,

impact. February begins as we celebrate our Volunteer, Citizen,

on Thursday, March 5, 2020. The summit provides a forum for

Business, and Public Servant of the Year at the HCCC Annual

open and honest engagement and the exchange of practical

Banquet on February 1, 2020.

ideas that will benefit you whether you are a business owner,

A few days later we will hold our annual Student/Teacher Appreciation Recognition (STAR) breakfast to honor our outstanding students and teachers in Henry County. This program highlights some of the best and brightest future leaders

a seasoned corporate executive, an individual contributor, or you are at the beginning of your career journey. Tickets are available for this event at henrycountywomenssummit.com.

Please join us at one of these events and introduce yourself. I

in our county. This is a great time to celebrate Henry County’s

look forward to working together to make Henry County a place

future leaders and to thank our educators.

where you Belong, Engage, Lead, and Prosper.

4 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

BUSINESS PROFILE STRAWN & CO., INSURANCE 16 HAMPTON ST, MCDONOUGH, GA 30253 (770) 637-5247 | INSURANCEMCDONOUGH.COM Steps away from the McDonough Square, the historical significance of the house at 16 Hampton Street is a source of pride for the multi-generational business of Strawn & Co., Insurance.

Sitting in the board room off the foyer in the original section of the restored home built in 1838, CEO Rusty Strawn recounts the house’s pivotal role in saving McDonough from being obliterated like other Georgian towns on Sherman’s March to the Sea near the end of the Civil War. “Sherman used this house as a medical unit for Union soldiers and agreed not to burn the town in exchange for the services of Dr. Lewis M. Tye, the home’s owner at the time.” As the story goes, Dr. Tye told General Sherman that he could work on his men but did not cut too good with smoke in his eyes.

That only one McDonough building was burned is attributed largely to Dr. Tye. Fast forward to 2020. Strawn & Co., Insurance is a mainstay of the thriving downtown McDonough business community and is one of South Atlanta’s oldest and largest independent insurance agencies. W. Norman Strawn, Sr. converted his garage into an office and established Strawn & Co. in 1972 when he was hired by Nationwide Insurance as an independent contractor. The next year, he moved the business into a house he bought on Lawrenceville Street where it flourished and grew to 7 employees until 2001 when it relocated to its current location on Hampton Street.

Today, the firm services families and businesses with a broad range of insurance options for all their needs from home and auto to life and commercial insurance. From its stately historical HQ in McDonough, Strawn & Co. operates with 33 employees and regional offices located in Locust Grove and Tyrone, Georgia, and plans to open another office in Warner Robbins, Georgia, later this year. From a small staff of two representing a single carrier, Strawn & Co., Insurance has grown to a highly

The leadership team at Strawn & Co., Insurance (l. to r.) W. Norman Strawn, Founder (ret.), Rusty Strawn, CEO, Licensed Agent, and John Wadsworth, President & COO, Licensed Agent.

Strawn & Co. recognizes the Chamber’s support for local businesses at large, both members and non-members, which has kept revenue within Henry County.

Founded in 1972, Strawn & Co., Insurance spans three generations (l. to r.) Beau Strawn, founder W. Norman Strawn, Rusty Strawn, and Anna Strawn.

automated center that represents many regional and national carriers.

Community Involvement Strawn & Co. is heavily involved in the community. Employees are encouraged to extend the company’s support through participation in local organizations including the Rotary Club, the Lions, the Kiwanis Club, the Boy Scouts of America, local churches, A Friend’s House and numerous nonprofit organizations.

Chamber Involvement Strawn & Co. recognizes the Chamber’s support for local businesses at large, both members and non-members, which has kept revenue within Henry County.

Rusty Strawn recommends other businesses to join the chamber as a way to network with other business owners, people of influence and key decision makers in Henry County.

HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

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HENRY HAPPENINGS SUNDAY

FEBRUARY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

FRIDAY

THURSDAY

SATURDAY

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2020 ANNUAL CHAMBER MEETING & AWARDS DINNER

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8AM LEADERSHIP HENRY, BR

9 9 AM – 11 AM

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WE LOVE OUR COMMUNITY 5K WALK AND RUN

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8AM STAR BREAKFAST

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8AM YOUTH LEADERSHIP HENRY, BR

4 PM – 5 PM SMALL BUSINESS COUNCIL

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8:30 AM – 9:30 AM GOLF COMMITTEE

17 9 AM – 3 PM SBDC NEW BUSINESS CONSULTATION

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18 8:30 AM

11 AM – 1 PM BUSINESS BOOSTER LUNCHEON

CVB, BOD, BR

10 AM – 11 AM MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE

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12 PM – 1 PM RIBBON CUTTING / SUNBROOK ACADEMY LUELLA

8AM 26 CHAMBER

BOARD, BR

12 PM – 1 PM CHAMBER AMBASSADOR COMMITTEE

275:30 – 7 PM

8AM CHAMBER EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, BR

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BUSINESS AFTER HOURS, STRONG ROCK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

WE LOVE OUR COMMUNITY 5K WALK AND RUN FEBRUARY 9, EAGLES LANDING COUNTRY CLUB, 100 EAGLES LANDING WAY, STOCKBRIDGE, GA 30281 Registration includes a t-shirt.

Hot Cocoa will be served.

Join the inaugural race for a great view of their 27-hole Tom Fazio-designed course, tennis courts and swimming.

Register at elluvstorun.com.

Special Offer – Join the Club after the race and pay no dues for your first month.

For more info, contact Membership Director Heather Wydock, 770-389-2000 x4605, heather.wydock@clubcorp.com, eagleslandingcc.com 6 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

THE SOUTHERN CRESCENT TECHNICAL COLLEGE MINISERIES ON INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICAL CONTROLS (FRIDAY MORNINGS) AND PLC TRAINING (FRIDAY AFTERNOONS)

Classes will be offered with several different sessions available ending in March. Each 4-hour class is $134/ person. All classes will be located on the Griffin Campus with Johnny Dodson. For more information or to register, call 770-228-7364. Information on each class is available on the Chamber of Commerce bulletin board at henrycounty.com/community-events.

SENIOR EXPO AND WELLNESS FEBRUARY 26, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM, BEAR CREEK SENIOR CENTER, 56 MCDONOUGH RD., HAMPTON, GA 30228 Free Blood Pressure Check, Glucose, Hearing and Vision. Door prizes. Local health related vendors will be available to offer services and information.

Sponsored by Blessed Hands Homecare.

Free event. For more information, contact 770-288-6994.

MEMBER SUPPORT

MOVING FROM IDEA TO BUSINESS

By Cheryl Greenerl, Program Coordinator

The new year has begun, and you may have thought about finally starting your business. But how do you know if that business idea is a good idea? It’s time to stop dreaming about it and actually get started. You’ve got to take that dream that’s stuck inside your head, write it down and put it to the test.

Here are some basic steps to take before you jump in.

your business and how much they’re willing to pay.

Getting the idea on paper will help you to focus and organize your thoughts. Start by creating a business “elevator” pitch. This is a short (30-60 seconds), well-rehearsed description of the key elements of your business that will help you quickly communicate your idea to others. If you can’t quickly describe your business, people won’t understand what you’re selling and why they should buy it. Your pitch should answer the following questions:

You must also determine if you have the necessary resources to start and operate the business. How much money will it take? Do you have the money? If not, can you get it? Do you have the knowledge and experience required to run the business? Not having the proper resources at the beginning is a major cause of business failure.

• What is the business?

• Who are your potential customers?

• What problem are you going to solve for them and how?

• How will you solve this problem better than the competition?

The next step is to determine if people will pay for your product or service? Not only should you ask friends, colleagues and family, but you should also talk to your potential customers. If everyone thinks it’s a great idea but nobody will buy it, you can’t make money. You must also determine if there are enough potential customers to sustain

In doing your research, you might find that you have to tweak your idea which may take you in a different direction.

So stay flexible, listen to your customers and be willing to shift directions if you discover a different trend.

Do you love your business idea? Or better yet, do you have a passion for it? Starting your business will require long work hours, laser focus, financial sacrifice and personal rejection.

If you don’t love the business idea enough to endure these things, then what will motivate you to move forward?

Finally, in completing your preliminary research, you should create a detailed written plan and use it as a roadmap to starting and operating your business. There are plenty of resources to help with that process.

For local, in-person help, contact the UGA Small Business Development Center to take advantage of our entrepreneur training classes and no-cost consulting services. Contact us at (678) 466-5100.

HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

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CHAMBER FEATURE EDUCATE. ENGAGE. EMPOWER.

THE 2ND ANNUAL HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT SUMMIT PRESENTED BY CHILDREN’S HEALTHCARE OF ATLANTA

Inspirational, informative and motivational event of the year.

KEYNOTE

Bentina Chisolm Terry Senior Vice President — Northwest Region Georgia Power Company

March 5, 2020 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Merle Manders Conference Center 111 Davis Rd, Stockbridge, GA 30281 Come hear these powerful, life-changing speakers and many more!

CONFIDENCE UNDER PRESSURE PANEL DISCUSSION Pandora Palmer, State Court Judge Holly Veal, Superior Court Judge Pam Bettis, Solicitor General

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! HENRYCOUNTYWOMENSSUMMIT.COM For more information visit henrycountywomenssummit.com 8 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

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

Publication of HenryCounty.com is made possible in part by the support of the Board Members of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce.

2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Christy Chewning, Chair, Central Georgia EMC Lincoln Parks, Chair-elect, Web Mobile Fusion Sharon Ponder, Immediate Past Chair, Bennett International Group Shaun Mock, Secretary/Treasurer, Snapping Shoals EMC Laura Turner, CVB Chair, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Dr. Elna Poulard, Vice Chair for Government and Education, Family Support Circle Morrelle McCrary, Vice Chair for Economic and Community Development, RAM-Tech PC Solutions Steve Nail, Vice Chair for Chamber Development, Nail Heating & Air Conditioning Joseph Henning, President & CEO

CLASS OF 2020 Scott Mahone, Mercer University Genie Moore, Mary Kay Consultant Kedon Williams, Southern States, LLC Kerry Arnold, Heritage Bank Sharon Ponder, Bennett International Group Steve Nail, Nail Heating & Air Conditioning CLASS OF 2021 Josh Duncan, F5 Financial Morrelle McCrary, RAM-Tech PC Solutions Christy Chewning, Central Georgia EMC Dr. Elna Poulard, Family Support Circle Kevin Demmitt, Clayton State University Thomas Williams, Kaiser Permanente CLASS OF 2022 Brent Huckaby, BB&T Lincoln Parks, Web Mobile Fusion David Campbell, Georgia Power

Kena Ceasar, Ameris Bank Maggy Martinez, Starbound PR Firm Lydia Pierre, Pierre Branding Group CHAIR APPOINTEES Laura Turner, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Dr. Murray Williams, Southern Crescent Technical College Shaun Mock, Snapping Shoals EMC EX OFFICIO MEMBERS Dr. Mary Elizabeth Davis, Henry County Schools Superintendent Tony Carnell, Henry County Water Authority Cheri Matthews, Leadership Henry Chair Kay Embrey, Leadership Henry Representative Don Dunlap, Youth Leadership Henry Chair Mayor Robert Price, City of Locust Grove

Mayor Steve Hutchison, City of Hampton Mayor Billy Copeland, City of McDonough Mayor Anthony Ford, City of Stockbridge Chair June Wood, Henry County Board of Commissioners Josh Fenn, Henry County Development Authority CHAMBER STAFF Joseph Henning, President & CEO Barbara Ingram, Director of Communications Gary Sparrow, Director of Membership Phyllis Reeves, Office Manager CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU STAFF Laura Luker, Director of Tourism Aisha White, Digital Content Manager Janna Szeto, Partner Relations Manager

HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

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MEMBER NEWS EDDIE AUSBAND JOINS THE HENRY COUNTY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY BOARD HENRY COUNTY, GA January 14, 2020--Meet HCDA’s newest board member, Eddie Ausband.

Ausband was officially sworn in at the Authority’s January meeting by Judge Kelley Powell, Henry County Probate Court. Ausband, appointed by Henry County Commissioner Gary Barham, will serve as the District 3 representative on the board.

Ausband began his career in insurance by starting a new agency in 1991 representing Nationwide Insurance. He now heads up The Ausband Agency on Macon Street in McDonough.

The Ausband Agency, Inc. currently has six offices and employs 18 associates.

Eddie Ausband

In 2009, Ausband acquired a SERVPRO® franchise, a leader in the area of fire and water cleanup and restoration. He saw this as a natural alliance that would complement his insurance endeavors and in 2017, he acquired a second franchise.

Locally, Ausband chairs the Finance Committee for the First Baptist Church of McDonough, is a Past Chairman of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce, and serves on the Atlanta Regional Commission, and as Co-chairman of the Atlanta Regional Workforce Development Board. He also serves on the Board of the Henry County Education Foundation, UGA Terry College Alumni Board, Innvision Hospitality, Inc., as well as an Advisory Board member of Heritage Bank.

Eddie Ausband Swearing-In Ceremony 10 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

ALETHIA BARNES 2019 AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR

Chamber member Alethia Barnes (l.) was named 2019 Ambassador of the Year at the monthly meeting held in January at the Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q in South Point Shopping Center, McDonough, GA. Alethia is pictured receiving the annual award from Chamber Board Director Genie Moore, Director, Mary Kay Cosmetics.

Alethia has been a dedicated Ambassador since she joined the Chamber in 2018 as an individual member. A retired Dean, Alethia also volunteers with the Communities In Schools of Georgia In Henry County (CIS) program where she serves as Secretary for their Advisory Council. Alethia is also a new volunteer with the Chamber Education Committee.

LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP

GOVERNMENT DAY PROVIDES VALUED INSIGHT

By Amaris H. Rasheed

As a three-year resident of Henry county, I was clueless about our county’s government offices and resources. In fact, the first visit I had to a Henry County Government site was the morning of our class.

The morning started off with a breakdown of the Henry County office hierarchy. At first, their organizational structure seemed excessively rigid. My first thoughts compared it to the Army. Further explanations helped me to understand the value and responsibilities that each department supports. The day continued, with a heartfelt presentation from our very own June Wood. She spoke about her journey, pursuing her role as Chair of the Henry County Board of Commissioners. She talked about her job at Georgia Power and how it led to a position more purposeful. Prayer and positivity were part of her journey of change. Her speech left me feeling empowered and motivated to expand my leadership within the community.

As a homeowner I learned a wealth of information about the home tax exemptions, assessments, and zoning. I felt a sense of fulfillment, receiving answers to all my zoning questions and concerns. Ron Burckhalter added insight about SPLOST district plans, and the difference between county and state roads. The day was organized smoothly which included a hearty lunch from Olive Garden and a road trip to the courthouse.

The tour of the Courthouse was an amazing journey. Seeing the jail, paddy wagon, and the different courtrooms was an edifying adventure. I must let the county know our District Attorney Darius Pattillo and his team rocks. Learning about their intensity and involvement, maintaining public safety and fighting crimes was valuable.

This update was provided by Amaris Rasheed, Member Care Director for Snapping Shoals EMC. Thank you, Leadership Henry for granting me the opportunity to partake in the 2020 class.

I also want to thank the organizers that arranged the Government Day agenda.

This was the best class ever, and I now have a direct value for Henry County’s government entities and resources.

STUDENTS MASTER “LIFE 101” ON EDUCATION DAY

By Lyndsay Theado

This January, the Youth Leadership Class of 2020 Education Day explored the many opportunities and pathways available to students in Henry County. Hosted at the Academy of Advanced Studies (AAS) in McDonough, the students attended sessions led by AAS Assistant Principal, Dr. Toni Cole and Henry County Schools (HCS) Superintendent Mary Elizabeth Davis and Board of Education, District 4 member, Sophe Pope.

Leah Miles, Clayton State University’s Henry Site Manager, and Ric Calhoun, Assistant Vice Principal with Gordon State College, joined the class for a working lunch meeting to talk with them about the dual enrollment opportunities with both schools.

Because education is such a key element to each student’s future, the students were given a “Life 101” class to better understand what their futures hold for them. The students were each given a career and a salary and then given the opportunity to “live life.” They had to secure student loans and housing, figure out transportation, groceries, insurance and more. They had to budget for clothing, possible pet expenses, entertainment and even some of life’s unexpected items such as flat tires and speeding tickets. While this exercise was a loose representation of the actual expenses of life, it gave the students insight into how education plays a role in what they want their futures to be.

Over lunch prepared by the AAS Culinary Arts class, leaders from Gordon State College and Clayton State University, covered the topic of dual enrollment. In the afternoon, the students visited the campuses of Mercer University and Southern Crescent Technical College and gained in depth knowledge of their offerings.

Laura Turner with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Lydia Pierre of Pierre Branding Group spent time with the class teaching the importance of personal branding.

HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

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CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP RENEWING MEMBERS A & H TRANSPORT, INC.

GALLERY AT HOOD STREET

A-COM

GEODIS

ALETHIA BARNES

GEORGIA PERIMETER HOMES

ALLSTATE SOUTH RIVER AGENCY

GLOBAL IMPACT CHRISTIAN

ANCHORS UNLIMITED, INC.

MINISTRIES

BHAT DENTAL ASSOCIATES

HADDON PLACE APARTMENTS

BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA

HARGRAVE, FREEMAN & LETO,

COMPANY LLC

CITY OF HAMPTON CITY OF LOCUST GROVE D&D KUSTOMS

SERVICES, INC. PURCHASING ALLIANCE SOLUTIONS, INC. QUALITY INN & SUITES CONFERENCE CENTER RANDY MCCLELLAN STATE FARM

HENRY COUNTY DEVELOPMENT

ROWE’S TREE SERVICE SNAPPING SHOALS EMC

AUTHORITY

SOUTHERN BELLE FARM

HENRY COUNTY TAX

SOUTHERN CRESCENT SPORTS

COMMISSIONER

FOUNDATION (OUR WORLD @

CAPSTONE SIGNS & GRAPHICS CARVER TIRE PROS

PARTS AND REPAIR TECHNICAL

P.C.

CAPSHAW DEVELOPMENT

NEW MEMBERS

HIGH PRIORITY PLUMBING & SERVICES, INC.

HOPE PARK) SWEET SPOT SMILES DENTAL CARE

MCDONOUGH PRESBYTERIAN

DOUG HOUSE

CHURCH

THE JOY FM, 93.3

F5 FINANCIAL - JOSH DUNCAN

MCDONOUGH TIRE CENTER

UNITED COMMUNITY BANK

ELITE MEMBERS SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR ELITE MEMBERS CHAIRMAN’S CLUB

BLALOCK MACHINERY

STACY DURDEN 500 JERRY STEELE LANE MCDONOUGH GA 30253 (404) 766-0580 STACYDURDEN@ BLALOCKMACHINERY.COM

EDJ ELECTRICAL

EARLE JOHNSON P.O. BOX 52 LOCUST GROVE GA 30248 (706) 982-5169 EDJELECTRICAL@GMAIL.COM

EVANS AIR CONDITIONING, INC CHRIS EVANS 155 STROUD RD MCDONOUGH GA 30252 (404) 425-4879 CHRISEVANSAC@AOL.COM

GOLD STAR LOGISTICS GROUP, LLC TAWANA RANDALL 3588 HWY 138 SE STE 239 STOCKBRIDGE GA 30281 (770) 864-8342 GOLDSTARLOGISTICSGROUP@GMAIL.COM

HERITAGE CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT, LLC

DENISE ARNOLD 360 CORPORATE CENTER CT., STE B STOCKBRIDGE GA 30281 (678) 289-5953 DENISE@HOMESBYHERITAGE.NET

SOLUTIONS IN HR

MARCELL AUSBORN 200 CANDICE COURT HAMPTON GA 30228 (678) 750-3496 AUSBORN3@BELLSOUTH.NET

SPECTRUM GAS SOLUTIONS, LLC JOE DEEP 1757 S ZACK HINTON PARKWAY MCDONOUGH GA 30253 (678) 432-3838 JDEEP@SPECTRUM-GAS.COM

THE SOLDIER CENTER MINISTRIES

CHAMPIONS

FRANKIE PHILLIPS 811 PAVILLION CT. MCDONOUGH GA 30253 (770) 875-4693 FRANKIEPHILLIPS910@GMAIL.COM

WAGNER STAFFING

RACHEL CAMPOLIETI 228 JONESBORO RD MCDONOUGH GA 30253 (678) 782-7220 RCAMPOLIETI@WAGNERSTAFFING.COM 12 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

QUALITY PROGRAMS FEBRUARY 2020 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020 | 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

You do not want to miss February’s Business After Hours! On February 27, 2020, Chamber members are invited to HOSTED BY: hear how Strong Rock STRONG ROCK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Christian School has 4200 STRONG ROCK PARKWAY, helped their students LOCUST GROVE, GA 30248 develop Christ-like servant leadership and character as they live out the school’s motto, “Blessed to be a blessing.” Their staff teaches amazing values, like how local community service can make such a big significance that it expands beyond the horizon.

The Chamber Jackpot was at $350 last month and if no one won it, it will be $400 for our February BAH winner. Plan to be there as you must be present to win.

About Strong Rock Christian School As educators who are committed to the purpose of Christian education, Strong Rock Christian School strives to help each student

know God’s purpose for his or her life. Their mission is to glorify God and build relationships with families in educating and inspiring their children to make a profound imprint on the world for Jesus Christ–The Strong Rock. With this mission in mind, Strong Rock is committed to uniting with the home, church, and school to raise a child to be a follower and disciple of Jesus Christ. With their experienced and dedicated Christian teachers and staff, along with their beautiful stateof-the-art facilities, they believe in influencing the lives of every child and family member that comes their way.

HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

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QUALITY PROGRAMS

BUSINESS BOOSTER LUNCHEON FEBRUARY 20, 2020 | HUDGINS ROOM | 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Speaker: Lincoln Parks, CEO of WebMobileFusion, Inc.

TOPIC: PROTECTING YOUR REPUTATION ONLINE PART 1 OF A 3-PART SERIES ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Social media is everywhere! When used properly, you can quickly grow your business and build a brand. But, it’s important to consider the downside of this phenomenon as well. What happens when you encounter negativity on social media? When and how should you respond? Make sure you’re plugged in on February 20, 2020, at our February Business Booster Luncheon! Guests will hear from marketing strategist, Lincoln Parks. Lincoln will inform guests on how to protect their reputations when using the web. Mark your calendars for this enlightening reveal!

About WebMobileFusion

Lincoln’s company, WebMobileFusion, Inc., has served as a marketing arm for many businesses in and around the Southeast. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from DeVry University in Technical Management & Business Entrepreneurship. With over 15 years of speaking, corporate marketing, and most importantly, in-the-trenches business experience, his view is radically different. Lincoln appreciates the importance of marketing and believes it’s a day-to-day choice that allows businesses to maintain great relationships. He assures listeners that it’s not about how many followers or likes you get—it’s about positively connecting with your audience and taking advantage of a strategy that’ll cause your business to constantly flourish.

Sponsored by Elite Chamber Member:

Kaiser Permanente 1125 Towne Center Village Drive McDonough, GA 30253 (404) 365-0966 14 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

Catering by Chamber Member:

200 North Park Place Stockbridge, GA 30281 (770) 507-4198

QUALITY PROGRAMS SPECIAL OFFER TO HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERS!

CHAMBER SUPPORTS HENRY COUNTY TOP HIGH SCHOOL ACHIEVERS

2020 Henry County STAR Breakfast Student / Teacher Achievement Recognition

February 6, 2020 BE A PART OF HENRY COUNTY’S LARGEST SPORTING EVENT Atlanta Motor Speedway’s 60th Anniversary NASCAR Weekend | March 13, 14 & 15 NASCAR Fan Zone Display Opportunity Reach THOUSANDS of Henry County Visitors!

You receive the opportunity to be in the mix of fun and excitement of NASCAR weekend while building business and brand awareness.

Package includes 10’x10’ Display Space (larger spaces available at varying rates) Partner VIP Parking Event Passes Standard Package Cost - $5000

Special Member of Henry County Chamber of Commerce Price - $500.00

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 6, 2020 at Eagle’s Landing Country Club. During the annual event, Chamber officials will honor our county’s 2020 STAR Students and Teachers.

PAGE Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) The Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) program honors Georgia’s highest-achieving high school seniors and the teachers most instrumental in their academic development. Since its creation in 1958 by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, the STAR program has honored more than 27,000 students. In the mid-1990s, the PAGE Foundation was asked to assume responsibility for the oversight, administration and promotion of the statewide STAR program. Every accredited high school in Georgia is eligible to participate in this preeminent student/teacher academic recognition.

Thank you to our STAR Sponsors!

SUPERNOVA SPONSORS

This offer is only valid through the end of February 2020, Contact Ted Austad at 770.946.3954 or via e-mail at taustad@atlantamotorspeedway.com *No sales of any kind allowed; no food or beverage sampling allowed with this offer*

HCCC EDUCATION FOUNDATION WILL AWARD TWO SCHOLARSHIPS

The HCCC Education Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in the community through programs that enhance education from pre-kindergarten-age children to adults. We believe that education never ends. We are proud to present two scholarship opportunities for young women in the Henry County School System.

The HCCC Education Foundation Scholarship for Young Women will award two $500.00 scholarship on March 5, 2020, at the HCCC Women’s EmPOWERment Summit.

Register now to support the HCCC Education Foundation and its scholarship awardees. For more information and to register, visit henrycountywomenssummit.com.

SHINING STAR SPONSORS

HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2020 BETWEEN 9AM–3PM Toppan Room Henry County Chamber of Commerce 1709 Hwy. 20 West, McDonough GA 30253 Call 678-466-5100 – for more information.

SCORE, the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, serves all business owners at all stages of the business life cycle.

SCORE Mentoring now offered on-site at Henry County Chamber of Commerce 2nd and 4th Monday of every month

By Appointment Only Mark your calendars!

Registration will be starting soon!

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Monday, February 10 Monday, February 24 To schedule an appointment, visit http://tinyurl.com/scoreatlapp.

To be added to a wait list, email bingram@henrycounty.com 16 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

SBDC Consulting Service No Fee, No Appointment Necessary 3rd Monday of Every Month On the 3rd Monday of each month, professional consultants from the Small Business Development Center come to the Chamber to provide small business coaching assistance. If you or someone you know is a small business owner, a start-up or an entrepreneur with just an idea – all are welcome to stop by for a face-to-face consultation with the experts from SBDC.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT HENRY COUNTY DAY AT THE CAPITOL

Henry Chamber of Commerce Journeys to Capitol as the Voice of the Henry County Business Community The Henry County Chamber of Commerce business community will have a presence at the Georgia State Capitol on Thursday, February 27, 2020, in Room 125, at 8:00 AM 11:30 AM. As a member of the Chamber, you are invited to join us there as we meet and engage with our Georgia legislative body of representatives.

Thursday, February 27 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM Georgia State Capitol Room 125 206 Washington St SW, Atlanta, GA 30334 If you plan to attend, please email preeves@henrycounty.com or call 770-597-5786.

CAR DRIVERS! If you are driving to meet us at the capitol, park and enter the State Capitol building and go directly to Room 125. For information on parking at the State Capitol, visit gov.georgia.gov/contact-us/capitol-informationdirections.

COUNTY HOLDS 2020 CENSUS COMMITTEE MEETING

The Henry County 2020 Census Committee, led by EMA Director Don Ash, met in early January and discussed several topics including the importance of participating in the Census and how to get Henry County citizens involved.

County and city leadership, along with county stakeholders were in attendance including Commission Chair June Wood who stressed the importance of counting every county resident.

“Every person counted in the Census equates to $2,450 per person and over a ten-year period that equals $240,000,” said Wood. “This is an opportunity for Henry County to shine. Want to have 100 percent participation, everyone counted.”

County Manager Cheri Hobson-Matthews expressed to the committee that the county will make sure resources are available.

“We want to have one committee, one source to reach everyone, especially those hard to count populations like the homeless and immigrant populations,” said Matthews.

The 2020 Census is a procedure that records the number of all people living in the United States. This count affects the funding of public resources and will determine the reapportionment of Congress and how much funding goes to federal programs.

For more information on the 2020 Census, please visit 2020census.gov.

If you would like to participate and join the Henry County 2020 Census Committee, please contact Don Ash at dash@co.henry.ga.us.

If you plan to attend, please email preeves@henrycounty.com or call 770-597-5786.

BUS RIDERS! If you are pre-registered to ride the bus, please arrive by 6:45 AM for boarding.

The bus will be departing the Henry County Administration Building, 140 Henry Parkway in McDonough, promptly at 7:00 am.

HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

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18 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com

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