APRIL 2015 HCCC Newsletter

henrycounty.com A HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUBLICATION

APRIL 2015 IN THIS ISSUE Chair’s Message 2 Business Profile 3 Calendar 4 SBDC 5 Chamber Briefs 6 Leadership Henry 6 Henry Happenings 7 Chamber Membership 10 Business After Hours 11 Business Boosters Luncheon 12 Ribbon Cuttings 13 Youth Leadership Henry 13

YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS

HAMPTON • LOCUST GROVE • MCDONOUGH • STOCKBRIDGE

FRIDAY, MAY 8 2015

Belles, Bulls & Buck$ is just around the corner. On May 8, Southern Belle Farm will be alive with the sights, sounds and smells of good food, fun and fundraising. It’s an event not to be missed and here’s why:

HCCC’S TOP 10 LIST 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.

You can increase positive perception among consumers and business owners when you’re identified as a member of a chamber of commerce.

REASONS TO ATTEND BELLES, BULLS & BUCK$ 10.) Food - It’s the main reason we go to any event right?

9.) Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream – Are you drooling yet?

8.) Two Words: Photo Booth.

7.) Fun - This is an adults-only-Friday-night-kickback-casual event.

6.) Cow Chip Bingo – It’s exactly what it sounds like. Need we say more?

5.) Carnival Games & Prizes – Who doesn’t like winning free stuff?

4.) Southern Belle Farm – A wonderful setting makes a good event great.

3.) Men running in hoop skirts. Enough said.

2.) A chance to win $5,000 – 1 in 300 are pretty good odds.

1.) Each $50 Ticket supports the work of the Henry County Chamber.

More information and tickets are available at www.BellesBullsBucks.com

New Member Orientation

Congratulations on becoming part of Henry County’s largest business organization. You are now part of a networking organization that encompasses the cities of McDonough, Stockbridge, Locust Grove and Hampton. With over 700 individual members you have your work cut out for you in meeting everyone. With the Chamber’s major annual events, and over 20 monthly events, you’ll be a networking pro in no time. Whether you are a new member or just need a refresher, we invite you to attend our upcoming new member orientation on April 28th and familiarize yourself with the chamber and all its perks. Stay tuned for details.

6:00pm to 9:30pm

Southern Belle Farm

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Message from the Chair Together making Henry Better…Let’s Advocate The Henry County Chamber of Commerce (HCCC) was organized in 1967 by Mr. Norman Fowler in response to the announced construction of Interstate 75 (I-75). Interestingly, the HCCC is still addressing opportunities for I-75 while also advocating for other business opportunities in 2015.

The Henry County Chamber of Commerce represents over 700 businesses and, as its primary areas of focus, serves as a voice for the business community, provides quality services and programs for our chamber members, improves the economic environment of our community and creates a legacy of leadership now and in the future.

As I reflect on the last seven years of my involvement with the HCCC, I am reminded of how the Chamber leadership continues to serve as an advocate for the business community and for key economic development initiatives. Just to name a few, it was the HCCC which organized the annual Intergovernmental Retreat (IGR) which allows Henry County’s elected and appointed officials, as well as other significant community leaders, to discuss and develop economic development strategies while also seeing how other communities have addressed similar issues.

As a result of the IGR and its collaborative focus on Economics & Education (E2), Henry County now has a campus of Southern Crescent Technical College to better meet the current and future workforce needs of our local businesses as well as one of Georgia’s largest college and career academies, The Academy for Advanced Studies, to better connect our student’s career interests with job needs. We also have the local Communities In Schools of Henry County to provide support for the overall success of our at-risk students to help them graduate and become productive citizens.

These examples demonstrate how the HCCC has served as a catalyst for significant community success.

Every year, the Henry County Chamber of Commerce adopts and presents a legislative agenda to the Henry County Legislative Delegation.

This year, HCCC is advocating for two local issues, an additional building for our Southern Crescent

June Wood

Technical College Henry Campus and an additional interchange on I-75. As a longtime member of the Regional Business Coalition (RBC), the Henry County Chamber of Commerce also supports the legislative interests of the RBC which represents seventeen local Chambers of Commerce and 10,000 businesses throughout the Metro Atlanta Region. The RBC agenda advocates for public policy issues impacting transportation, water, air quality and other solutions that improve metro Atlanta’s quality of life and economic vitality.

Following this will be a more comprehensive discussion of our local legislative priorities.

The HCCC clearly understands that a strong education system is one of the key components in a community’s economic prosperity and quality of life.

The business partnership with both public and private secondary and post-secondary educational institutions continues to be a major focus. We are proud that community leaders and citizens have taken an active and collaborative role in making The Academy for Advanced Studies’ affiliations with Clayton State University, Gordon State College, and Southern Crescent Technical College, a reality for Henry County. As previously noted, we continue to advocate for the expansion of the Henry County Southern Crescent Technical College (SCTC) Campus. Henry County is one of the most populated counties in Georgia and until recently there was no technical college presence in the county. In 2009, the Henry County School System donated 25 acres for an eight building SCTC Campus adjacent to The Academy for Advanced Studies. In 2012, the Henry County Legislative Delegation secured funding for the first building of the Southern Crescent Technical College (SCTC) eight building campus. This building was opened in 2014 providing general education and other health programs.

In 2014, the Henry County Delegation secured $900,000 for the architecture and design of Building Two and is currently pursuing additional funding to complete the building which will include programs for logistics, automotive and diesel engine technology, and welding to only name a few. The community has continued to show it’s support for this project by voting to allocate $6.3 million of SPLOST IV funds to supplement the state funding. As the focus on secondary and postsecondary education continues, Henry County is better poised to meet workforce needs now and in the future.

The Chamber recognizes the necessity of traffic mitigation on I-75. While the managed lane project currently under construction has the potential to provide congestion relief, the anticipated expansion of the Port of Savannah will significantly contribute to traffic congestion in and around the primary industrial areas of Henry County, especially at exit 216. The addition of an interchange located south of exit 216 and north of exit 212 has the potential to improve truck traffic flow for current industries, enhance opportunities for economic prospects and job creation efforts in the county. The Chamber is taking a leading role in advocating for this much needed infrastructure improvement.

The HCCC is closely monitoring a significant opportunity for the state of Georgia. Over the next 25 years, transportation experts calculate that Metro Atlanta’s long-term transportation system needs over $120 billion to maintain, operate and expand our existing transit and transportation infrastructure to ensure global competitiveness. At present, less than half of that amount can be identified from federal, state and local sources. If Georgia is to remain globally competitive, additional funding sources for transportation infrastructure must be established.

The HCCC Executive Committee and Board of Directors appreciate Georgia’s great need for additional transportation funding to enhance existing infrastructure. We applaud the legislature for addressing this critical component of our economic development tools and are carefully monitoring the progress of HB 170 as it moves through the legislative process. We thank our delegation for exhibiting the courage to make the hard choices to effectively craft a revenue stream that can meet this need now and in the future.

The Henry County Chamber of Commerce advocates for the interests of over 700 members and by doing so continues to seek collaborative opportunities to improve Henry County’s economic prosperity and quality of life. Please visit www. henrycounty.com for additional information about chamber activities and initiatives.

June Wood

HenryCounty.com

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Business Profile

About Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church and Christian Academy Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church and Christian Academy was established in 1990 and has been a spiritual pillar of Henry County for more than 25 years. The church has grown from 39 members to now more than 6,500 members since Pastor Tim Dowdy came in 1989. Eagle’s Landing is known as the big church with the big heart and is also the home of GRAMMY Award-winning band Casting Crowns. It welcomes all to come as they are and feel the love of Christ. Its school, Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy, educates almost 1,100 students (K3-12) and is a leading educational institution in the Southern Crescent.

Community Support The church and the school reach the community in countless ways. From personal outreach to prayer walks and block parties in subdivisions and apartment complexes. There are also oncampus services, free concerts with some of the biggest names in the industry of Christian music, and other special events. Eagle’s Landings First Baptist Church’s massive Fall Festival occurs each Halloween night and is one of the best attended family events in all of Henry County as kids of

all ages enjoy free rides and candy. The church is also known for its Vacation Bible School and summer camps for kids.

Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church and Christian Academy employs 200 full time and 50 part time employees.

Chamber Involvement We are blessed to be a member of the Chamber of Commerce in many ways, most notably in the relationships our employees enjoy with other Chamber members and all the inherent benefits that networking means for our ministry and our impact on the community. We also appreciate the increased profile throughout Henry County the chamber affords us. The name of Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church travels more extensively thanks to our involvement with the chamber.

Thank you, Chamber of Commerce. We are grateful!

God bless you, Tim Luke Executive Pastor

Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church and Christian Academy 2400 Hwy 42 N, McDonough, GA 30253 770-957-1355 communityupdate@eagleslanding.org www.eagleslanding.org

Tim Dowdy, Senior Pastor and President Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church and Christian Academy

eagle’s landing

first baptist church & christian academy

Every LIFE has a story.

Celebrate it!

770-914-1414 www.cannonclevelandfunerals.com

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Greg Cannon

BELLAMY-STRICKLAND Chevrolet • Buick • Pontiac • GMC Trucks

770-954-3000 BELLAMY STRICKLAND

I-75 . 155 Hwy McDonough

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I-75 • Exit 216 145 Industrial Blvd.

McDonough, Ga

Internet | Phone | TV

Romas Mills

Business Account Executive

74 98/MO.

C 678-512-9862 F 770-389-0166 E romas.mills@charter.com

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1920 Brannan Road McDonough, GA 30253

No Contracts • No Taxes • No Hidden Fees

Spectrum High-Speed Internet (60 Mbps) and Spectrum Telephone

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2015 Henry County Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic This year’s event is scheduled for Monday, September 28th, 2015 at Eagles Landing CC. If you, or someone from your company, would like to assist in planning the event, then consider joining our Golf Committee. Please contact Gary Sparrow at gsparrow@henrycounty.com.

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TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

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APRIL 2015

8 AM Leadership Henry, BR

SATURDAY

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8 AM Youth Leadership Henry, BR

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11:30 AM Golf Committee, ELCC

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11:30 AM HCCC Executive Comm, BR

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CVB BOD, BR

HCCC BOD, BR

9 AM Membership Committee, TR

12 PM Ambassadors Luncheon

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8:30 AM Government Affairs Comm, BR 10 AM Small Business Council, BR 11 AM Business Boosters Luncheon, HR

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Education Committee, HR 11 AM New Member Orientation, HR 2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

June Wood, Chair Leonard Moreland, Chair Elect, Heritage Bank Melissa Malcolm, Secretary/Treasurer, Melissa P. Malcolm, LLC Charlie Scott, Immediate Past Chair, Piedmont Henry Hospital Brad Thomas, Vice Chair for Economic & Cultural Development, Snapping Shoals EMC Steve Nail, Vice Chair for Chamber Development, Nail Heating & Air Shane Persaud, Vice Chair for Government & Education, Communities in Schools of Henry County Jeff Mills, CVB Chair, David Gill, HCCC President & CEO

CLASS OF 2015:

Herschel Arant, Central Georgia EMC Greg Hammonds, Whaley Hammonds Tomasello, PC John Newman, Classic Landscapes Rhett Tucker, Georgia Power Laura Turner, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Scott Whitmire, Georgia Power

CLASS OF 2016:

Toni Holmes, Individual Member Wayne Lowrey, United Community Bank Melissa Malcom, Melissa P. Malcolm, LLC Steve Nail, Nail Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Shane Persaud, Communities in Schools of Henry County Denise Sowell, Capitol Street Financial Services

CLASS OF 2017:

Nadia Faucette, Georgia Power Greg Guy, Goodyear Aviation Products Rod Meadows, Meadows & Macie, PC Sharon Ponder, Benett International Group Brad Thomas, Snapping Shoals EMC Dr. Gopal Rao, Atlanta Heart Associates

EX OFFICIO MEMBERS

Rodney Bowler, Henry County Schools Donna Braddy, Leadership Henry Tony Carnell, HC Water Authority Mayor Billy Copeland, City of McDonough Bill Herndon, HC Development Authority Mayor Steve Hutchison, City of Hampton Mayor Robert Price, City of Locust Grove Tommy Smith, Henry County BOC Mayor Tim Thompson, City of Stockbridge

CHAIR APPOINTEES

Patti Brown, SERVPRO Dr. Randall Peters, Southern Crescent Technical College Kedon Williams, Southern States, LLC

CHAMBER STAFF

David Gill, President & CEO Laura Luker, Director of Tourism Lydia Pierre, Director of Communications Gary Sparrow, Membership Director Phyllis Reeves, Office Manager

Strawn & Co.

HenryCounty.com

Team Dysfunction and What You Can Do About It

Insurance

Helping you find the right direction for all your insurance needs.

PERSONAL

BUSINESS

Strawn & Co., Insurance is among south Atlanta’s oldest and largest independent insurance agencies. Our agency was founded

by W. Norman Strawn Sr. in 1972 with the purpose of providing property, casualty, life and health insurance needs for local families and businesses. From a small staff of two, Strawn & Co., Insurance has grown to a highly automated center that helps us stay abreast of the continual changes in our industry.

Our team of knowledgeable

HEALTH

insurance professionals is experienced in creating personal and commercial insurance policies designed to fit your needs. Our friendly staff will work with you on a one-on-one basis to develop not only the perfect policy, but a lasting relationship.

When you work with Strawn & Co., you’ll experience the exceptional service and attention to detail that you can only find with an independent insurance agency.

Call or Come in Today!

16 Hampton Street McDonough, GA 30253

770-957-9005 StrawnInsurance.com

Judiffier Pearson, Business Consultant The University of Georgia SBDC at Clayton State University

Teamwork is essential to achieving complex goals and facilitating change. But despite your best intentions as a business leader, your team’s success could be impeded by dysfunctional relationships. There are 5 pitfalls that you and your team must overcome: 1. Absence of Trust. When there is no trust, there is no real communication. This dysfunction causes people to look out for their own interests without regard for what’s best for the team or organization. If your team is not performing at its potential and getting desired outcomes, then evaluate if you’ve provided a safe place for them to be vulnerable, supported and valued.

2: Fear of Conflict. Artificial, surface harmony is what many

teams have. Don’t be misled by the false assumption that conflict is always destructive. Conflict can be productive when people are free to question and disagree with concepts and ideas, forcing more critical and proven thought amongst the group.

If trust is already established, teams can engage in ideological conflict without resorting to interpersonal attacks. Growth and innovation are the outcomes of productive conflict.

3: Lack of Commitment. Very simply, people support what they care about and help to create.

Good teams buy into and support group decisions when synergy, not necessarily consensus, has been achieved. The collaborative process is successful when people have had the opportunity to contribute, be heard, discuss, gain clarity, and decide on the best decision…even when their ideas and opinions have been voted against. If you make decisions in silos and pass up opportunities to engage your team, you will see inconsistent and

lackluster performance.

4: Avoidance of Accountability.

A direct result of dysfunction is no accountability. Team members won’t hold each other responsible for their actions or inaction if they are afraid of confrontation. Accountability also requires that there has been clear communication (and buy-in) about roles, tasks, deadlines, and other expectations.

5: Inattention to Results.

Functional teams stay focused on the group’s desired outcomes, not their own. But in order to do so, those outcomes must be clearly defined, measureable, and regularly tracked.

Teams should develop a culture of acknowledging and rewarding behavior that moves them closer to results. What gets rewarded gets repeated.

To learn more about how you can grow as a leader and build high performing teams, contact us at morrow@georgiasbdc.org, or call 678-466-5100.

The Educated Plumber Rooter & Septic www.eduplumber.com • Plumbing • Sewer & Drain • Water Heaters • Leak Detection • Septic Pumping & Repairs

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Chamber Briefs.

Congratulations to...

The City of Locust Grove on becoming one of eight cities to receive a Livable Cities Initiatives grant from the Atlanta Regional Commission.

Classic Landscapes, Inc. on receiving the Distinction award in the 2014 Professional Landscape Awards, presented by the Georgia Urban Ag Council (UAC) for their Country Club Makeover project.

To Henry County Schools’ high schools for being recognized for achievements in their Advanced Placement (AP) programs and test results by the Georgia Department of Education.

Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Josh Duncan on the opening of his new McDonough location at the Commerce Building 2100 Keys Ferry Ct. near the intersection of Keys Ferry St and Zack Hinton Parkway

State Government Day Much of what shapes Henry County on a larger scale starts with the General Assembly under the Gold Dome of Georgia’s Capitol. Leadership Henry class members got an up-close look at the process while also getting the chance to meet with members of the Henry County legislative delegation elected to the General Assembly.

Representative Brian Strickland (Dist. 111) and Andy Welch (Dist. 110), along with Senator Rick Jeffares (Dist. 17) addressed the class and shared information on the legislative process and some important bills being considered during the current session. They also answered several questions from class members on various issues from child abuse prevention programs to small business opportunities and economic development.

Attorney General Sam Olens was another featured speaker during the group’s stop at the capitol.

Olens shared insight into the work his office is tasked with while also answering various questions posed by the class.

After these presentations, class members were able to witness proceedings in both the House of Representatives and Senate Chambers. The Henry

County Legislative Delegation provided a formal recognition of the Leadership Henry class during the morning’s floor activities in the House of Representatives.

The class took a short walk from the capitol over to the James H. “Sloppy” Floyd Building for lunch and a presentation by the Georgia Department of Corrections. The class then boarded the bus to head over to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

At the GBI, class members were able to hear from representatives with the bomb squad division and get a unique look at some of the intricate equipment used to diffuse bombs of all types.

A tour was also given of the GBI museum to conclude the day. The class will learn about healthcare in Henry County during their next class day.

The Leadership Henry Class of 2015 will host its annual Hands on Henry on Saturday, April 18 from 8am – NOON. There are still opportunities to volunteer for various projects taking place all over the county. To sign up or find out more, visit www.handsonherny.org.

To find out more about Leadership Henry, visit www.leadershiphenry.com.

(L-R) Senator Jeffares, Representative Strickland, and Representative Welch answer questions from the Leadership Henry Class during the morning of State Government Day. Class members pose for a picture inside the Georgia Capitol Building.

Congratulations to …

If you are a Chamber member with good news to share, send your logo and/or photo and information to lpierre@henrycounty.com and let us congratulate YOUR business!

One of the GBI Bomb Squad members shares information with the class on special tools and equipment used by the law enforcement group.

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IT’S HAPPENING IN HENRY Comfortably South of Atlanta Easter Bunny Photos featuring Grandbaby Treasures Seasonal Boutique March 1 – April 4, Daily 1 – 6 pm Tanger Outlets The EASTER BUNNY is coming to Tanger Outlets Locust Grove. Plan now to bring your child and experience the magical gardens on the path to see the Easter Bunny for your special photo memories.

Photography by LaRae will also feature an exclusive boutique line of children’s clothing and accessories which include Easter Baskets, “Born and Raised Southern” totes, Mud Pie Children’s clothing and much more! Location: Suite 211

Color Run 5K, April 4, 2015 at Atlanta Motor Speedway The Color Run, also known as the happiest 5K on the planet, is a unique paint race that celebrates healthiness, happiness and individuality. Now the single largest event series in the world, The Color Run has exploded since its debut event. It has more than tripled its growth, hosting more than 300 events in more than 50 countries in 2014. For more information, visit http:// thecolorrun.com/atlanta/.

Legends Race – Winter Flurry Week 6 April 3 • Atlanta Motor Speedway Legends and Bandolero racing returns to Atlanta Motor Speedway this winter with offseason racing as NASCAR’s stars of tomorrow prepare for the 2015 summer Thursday Thunder series. See all the action from the pits as kids ages 6 to 11 are admitted for just $5 while adults pay only $12; admission is free for children ages five and younger. Visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com for more information or call (770) 946-4211.

Ladies Night Out April 9, 6 pm – 9 pm Downtown McDonough

Easter Egg Hunt April 4, 2pm – 4pm Front Lawn at Locust Grove City Hall Bring your kiddos in their Easter Best as they hunt through thousands of Easter Eggs for the biggest egg hunt in the Grove! The Easter Bunny will be in attendance, so be ready for photos! Call 770-957-5043.

Easter Sunrise Service April 4 • McDonough Square

Call 770-898-9311 for details.

Run to Remember in Honor of Chuck Haist • April 11, 9 am Echols Ranch McDonough, GA

Visit www.getsetgrow.com for details.

5th Annual Zebra Dash April 11 8 am – 11 am Noah’s Ark, 712 LG Griffin Road, www.noahs-ark.org, 770-957-0888 Taste of Henry – The Best of Taste & Tourism • April 17 Jason T. Harper Event Center at Heritage Park, 101 Lake Dow Road, McDonough 30252.

Showcases over 25 local restaurants and food vendors with dishes that are sure to satisfy

every palate. The taste-size portions let you sample a variety of different flavors and restaurants. From delicious main courses to appetizers and desserts. If it’s great food, you are sure to find it at Taste of Henry. Visit www.tasteofhenry.org. for details.

anything with an engine, ranging from muscle cars, imports and trucks to big rigs, motorcycles and even boats and RVs. Visit www.atlantamotorama.com for more information.

City of Stockbridge celebrates Georgia Cities Week April 19 - 25 Historic Downtown Stockbridge This year’s theme, Destination Downtown, encourages citizens to explore and enjoy their own downtown’s commercial district for shopping, dining and entertainment. The Miss Locust Grove Pageant City of Stockbridge will kick off the week with April 18, 2015 special tours of City Hall and will host another Locust Grove City Hall Auditorium Stockbridge Stories event that will highlight Do you have what it takes to be Miss iconic women who have made their mark Locust Grove? Sign up today at City Hall or on Stockbridge throughout its history. This download the form on the City’s website. For informative session will be held on Tuesday, info call 770-957-5043.

April 21st at 6:00 p.m. at the Merle Manders Conference Center at 111 Davis Road in Summit Racing Equipment Historic Downtown Stockbridge. A complete Atlanta Motorama listing of Stockbridge Georgia Cities Week April 18 & 19 activities will be posted on the City’s website Atlanta Motor Speedway after April 1st. presented by Classic Collectors Insurance & zMAX Micro Lubricant O’Reilly Auto Parts The must-see car show event of the year Friday Night Drags is at Atlanta Motor Speedway for the 2nd Annual Summit Racing Equipment Atlanta April 24 Motorama presented by Classic Collectors Atlanta Motor Speedway Insurance and zMAX Micro Lubricant! Drag racing competition is open to all Motoring enthusiasts of all types will not participants for an entry fee of $20. Vehicles want to miss this! Featuring national award are required to have a working seat belt, winning show vehicles, entertainment and each driver must have a DOT-approved and a huge manufactures midway helmet to race. Spectator admission is just featuring hundreds of vendors. Vehicle $8, with children 5 and under admitted free. entry for the Summit Racing Equipment Exterior parking is free, and infield parking Atlanta Motorama will be open to most is $20. O’Reilly Auto Parts Friday Night Drags McDonough Arts Spring Art Festival April 18, 12 pm – 5 pm McDonough Square Live music, food & baked goodies. Visit www. mcdonougharts.net for more information.

& Show-N-Shine begins April 24, 2015! Visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com, under Events, for details.

Dirty Girl 5K April 25 Atlanta Motor Speedway Dirty Girl events inspire fabulous females to run, walk, climb, jump and laugh their way, hand in muddy hand, to an unabashed sense of accomplishment. And today? Oh yeah, you betchya, things have gotten a WHOLE LOT DIRTIER! Dirty Girl 5K Mud Run and Obstacle course brings its muddy merriment, cementing its place in history as the premiere, women’s only mud run event.

So what are you waiting for? Sign up today to be a part of something truly magical, side-splittingly memorable and wonderfully muddy! For more information, visit http:// godirtygirl.com/.

Locust Grove Day April 25 City Hall Front Lawn Locust Grove’s largest festival will be on the front lawn of City Hall! Come out for great festival food, craft vendors, and the annual street dance with music by the Mackey Creek Band! For info call 770-957-6171.

Stuntfest, April 26 Atlanta Motor Speedway The 2015 Stuntfest at Atlanta Motor Speedway will include a car show, a bike show, drag racing, live music with national acts and more! For more information, visit http://www.stuntfestcarshow.com/.

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

City of McDonough

Henry County Chamber of Commerce

Billy Copeland, Mayor

Convention & Visitors Bureau 770-957-5786

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770-946-8088 Nail-Air.com

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1709 Highway 20 West Westridge Business Center McDonough, GA 30253

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City of Locust Grove

Robert Price, Mayor (770) 957-5043

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Henry County’s choice for

770-775-7857 www.cgemc.com

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City of Stockbridge

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

Tim Thompson, Mayor

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rodney.bowler@henry.k12.ga.us MCDONOUGH

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770-389-7910

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22 N. Zack Hinton Parkway McDonough, Georgia 30253

865 Hwy.20/81 West McDonough, GA 30253

770-898-1988 242772-1

STOCKBRIDGE

850 Eagles Lndg. Pkwy.

Stockbridge, GA 30281

770-507-5855

LOCUST GROVE

4870 Bill Gardner Pkwy.

Locust Grove, HA 30248

770-288-3500

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

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Find a New Favorite at Taste of Henry To our NEW Chamber Members

Anytime Fitness • Kyham Hines 2168 Highway 20 West McDonough, Ga 30253 • 678-432-3033

Marco’s Pizza • Shawn Skrip 298 Racetrack Rd. McDonough, GA 30253 • (678) 332-8070

The Carolyn Preston Taylor Agency Carolyn Preston Taylor 4020 East Lake Parkway McDonough, Ga 30253 • 678-212-5505

Maritza & Frank’s Restaurant, Inc. Gustavo Tobias 715 Industrial Blvd, McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 892-0270

Castillo Real Mexican Cocina & Bar Ron Castillo 14 Old Jackson Rd. McDonough, GA 30252 • (678) 593-5265

Meritage Homes • Christie Oss 8004 Revere Drive, McDonough, GA 30252 (770) 712-9033

Marco’s Pizza • Shawn Skrip 5000 Bill Gardner Pkwy Locust Grove, GA 30248 678) 332-8070

Top Klass Accounting & Tax, Inc. Phillip Campbell 1104 McDonough Place McDonough, GA 30253 • (678) 565-4400

On The Bayou • Kathryn Chatters Comfort Suites Hotel Stockbridge • Tanya Patel 1407 Swiftwater Circle, McDonough, GA 30252 985-703-0164 3540 Cameron Parkway Stockbridge, GA 30281 Premiere Wireless Solution 770-507-0444 Kristy Dobbs Dwight Lewis - State Farm • Dwight Lewis 1010 Premiere Way, McDonough, GA 30252 (404) 886-4366 2102 Jodeco Rd. • McDonough, GA 30253 Run Fit Sports, Inc • Perry Slaughter Keep Safe Self Storage • Vanessa Jackson 1387 Hwy 20 West, McDonough, GA 30253 1205 Meredith Park Dr., (678) 583-0711 McDonough. GA 30253 (770) 914-9570 The Walton’s Home Cooking Christina Walton Marble Slab Creamery • Anil Patel 1774 Panola Road, Ellenwood, GA 30294 2011 Jonesboro Rd. Suite 21 (678) 438-6624 McDonough, GA 30253 • (770) 320-9600

To our RENEWING Chamber Members A-com All American Quality Foods BB&T - Branch Banking & Trust Benton Village A Senior Living Community Boy Scouts of America Clayton State University Crichton Mullings & Associates, P.C. Cycle Nation of McDonough D & D Kustoms E. R. Snell Contractor, Inc. Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy Econo Lodge Gander Mountain Goodyear Aviation Products Henry County Local Emergency Planning Commission Hudgins Construction Company Massey Services, Inc. McDonough Family Eyecare

McDonough Presbyterian Children’s Academy Metro Metal Works, Inc. Nail Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. P&D Printing, Inc PACE Counseling and Training Center Palms at Lake Spivey (The) Peachtree Peddlers & Peachtree Antique Center Pep Boys Piedmont Henry Prevent Child Abuse Henry County Sam’s Club Sweetie’s Flea Market The Self Team at Keller Williams Realty Atlanta Partners UPS Store (The) Villas at South Point Way of the Cross Baptist Church Westbury Health & Rehab - McDonough

Think back. That little pizza place your family loves or the off-the-beaten path BBQ joint – how did you find out about them? Chances are someone stumbled upon them and spread the word about these hidden gems. This is the experience Taste of Henry offers. For the price of just $20 attendees can sample the delicacies and delights from more than 25 different restaurants. While there are sure to be a few old favorites, many restaurants really make their debut at this event. Come find a new favorite!

During Taste of Henry on April 17, attendees will have the opportunity to get a “taste” of not only Henry County’s best restaurants, but also what Henry County offers in the way of things to do and see, hotels and event facilities. Lifelong residents and out-of-town taste testers will discover new opportunities for entertainment. If the thrill of knowledge and new adventures isn’t enough, prizes will be given out for those attendees who visit all the tourism booths. Tickets are $20 and are available online at www.TasteofHenry.org, at the Chamber, A Friend’s House and various other locations.

HenryCounty.com

April 2015

11

February Business After Hours Recap Business After Hours is the Chamber’s signature monthly networking event.

There was a great turn out for our February Business After Hours sponsored by and held at Hamilton State Bank’s Stockbridge branch office.

Members talked business in a casual atmosphere, enjoyed New Orleans style food and 19 prizes were raffled off at the end of the night!

Hamilton State Bank is a full-service bank with 27 branches across north Georgia and 7 are located in Henry County.

Whether you’re a long-time Chamber member or have just joined our ranks, come out for Business After Hours. Held at 5:30 p.m. the fourth Thursday of each month, it’s the perfect way to start wrapping up a busy work week. Three members could have wrapped their week up with a bang had they been at Hamilton State Bank for the Chamber’s Jackpot drawing. Ms. Cynthia

Patterson of Wells Fargo, Mr. Michael Bell of C.W. Matthews Contracting Co., and Alyssa Neal of Neal Electrical Solutions all missed their chance at $200.

THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING BUSINESSES FOR DONATING DOOR PRIZES Georgia’s Own Credit union Rowe Tree Service Pin strikes Entertainment Center Black Tie Formal Wear Nail Heating and Air Conditioning Edward Jones • Piedmont Henry First National Bank • Marco’s Pizza Heritage Bank • Classic Landscapes Pro Studio at the Garden Cottage United Community Bank

Pro Studio Is known for “Photographing Life’s Most Celebrated Moments”.

Whether it’s a new birth, a graduation, a wedding or promotion, Pro Studio captures the milestones in someone’s life. Visiting Pro Studio is more like a mini tour of the back lot at MGM studios. Sets, Props and theatrical backgrounds surround this 1899 cottage.

Come celebrate spring with Pro Studio and take this opportunity to learn more about their services while you mingle with colleagues and enjoy beer & burgers, gifts and refreshments.

Business After Hours are free networking events for members and their invited (adult) guests. **PARKING IS LIMITED: Follow the signs; parking will be next door.

Carpooling is recommended.

About Business After Hours:

Business After Hours is a monthly networking event designed to bring 40-50 business professionals together to meet and build relationships in an informal setting. Each event is hosted by a different Chamber member and is a great way to meet new people and see the diverse business community in Henry County. If you would like to host a Business After Hours, please contact, Lydia Pierre at:

lpierre@henrycounty.com

Henry County Day at the Capital On February 26, 2015 the Henry County Day at the State Capitol was cancelled due to inclement weather. Due to the weather, the Henry County Transit and The State capitol were closed. In order to bring certainty to the many who were trying to make their plans, the Chamber found it best to go ahead and cancel the day all together. In spite of the weather, the gift bags which were prepared for each of the Senators and Representatives were delivered to them. The gift bags contained locally manufactured or identified items such as Shane’s BBQ Sauce, Sweet Baby Rays BBQ Sauce (Made by Ken’s Foods), Ken’s Salad Dressings, a die cast race car from Atlanta Motor

Speedway, and a Behr paint can filled with candy. The county wishes that they could have had the opportunity to thank our delegation in the way that was intended, but the weather was simply not permitting.

HenryCounty.com

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April

Feb. Business Boosters Luncheon Recap

2015

Legal Issues in Human Resources April 16, 2015 • HCCC Hudgins Room 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Judith Stills-Ogden

Are you a Business Owner or Human Resources Manager and are not sure what Human Resource practices are best for your business?

The field of human resources management is greatly influenced and shaped by the state and federal laws governing employment issues.

Indeed, regulations and laws govern all aspects of human resource management—recruitment, placement, development, and compensation.

At this Business Boosters Luncheon learn from Clayton State University’s Dr. Judith Stilz Ogden, J.D., Associate Professor of Business Law, about Department of Labor(DOL) compliance issues such as hiring 1099s vs. W2 employees and legal Human Resource issues such as I-9 and E-verify, worker’s comp and how they all work.

During the February Business Boosters Luncheon the Henry County Chamber of Commerce welcomed Purchasing Alliance Solutions. Purchasing Alliance Solutions works through alliances with chambers of commerce and independent insurance agents to provide special employee benefit programs for businesses. These programs are designed to improve the health of both the business and its employees by saving money on essential benefits and encouraging employees to be healthy and productive.

At this Business Boosters Luncheon members had the chance to learn about Identity Theft Protection Plans, Modern Concierge Health Benefits and Healthy Business Alliance among other features.

Special Thank you to Shane’s Rib Shack for an amazing lunch.

Catering provided by Marco’s Pizza 298 Racetrack Rd, McDonough, GA 30252 (770) 692-5868

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Member Directory • Member to Member Discounts • News & Events

Also visit us at HenryCounty.com

HenryCounty.com

13

Making Lemonade The Youth Leadership Henry Class was ready to go to the State Capitol on February 25, but the trip was cancelled due A LEADERSHIP to inclement weather. Although PROGRAM FOR HIGH SCHOOL SOPHOMORES the class was disappointed, the board of directors agreed that it was an important day, and every effort should be made to ensure that it happened. Despite the fact that the weather had given them some lemons, the class was determined to turn them into lemonade!

Program Director Susan Howington leapt into action, working with members of our legislative delegation, the Governor’s and Secretary of State’s offices, and other personnel at the Capitol.

As a result of her hard work, the Youth Leadership Henry Class was able to go to the Capitol on Wednesday March 11, the 29th day of the legislative session. This was important because the 30th day of the session is crossover day, which is usually a hectic time as they are the last 10 days of session. This would have, more than likely, negatively impacted the class having access to legislators.

This group of Henry County high school sophomores really reflected well on our community. They started the day by meeting US Congressman Barry Loudermilk, down from Washington to meet with constituents. The class was also visited by Secretary of State Brian Kemp, who explained the various responsibilities of the departments that his office supervises. The class was then

introduced to various members of the legislative delegation, whose districts include Henry County.

Senator Rick Jeffares started off by discussing his roles, and some of the legislation he was working on. Next the class heard from Rep. John Yates, who discussed why he ran for office as well as some of the milestones of his career as a legislator. In his 90 years, he has seen quite a bit, and the class was fascinated by his story. Brian Strickland and Dale Rutledge, Representatives from districts 111 and 109, discussed crossover day and the path that legislation takes to become law. They also took a few minutes to explain their differing views on a bill, so we could see how representing THEIR respective districts caused them to look at details a little differently. Senator Emmanuel Jones discussed some pending education legislation with the class, wrapping up the session. The class had been thinking about things the General Assembly does that impacts them, and had great questions and insightful comments during the entire session.

The class met Representative Andy Welch while making their way through the Capitol, and he shared his insights about working for them under the gold dome, and encouraging their feedback about things that impacted them and their community.

Finally, the class assembled on the main stairs with the members of the delegation and the Governor, for a group photo. The class enjoyed seeing both houses of the General Assembly from the galleries, being recognized from the floor by Representatives

Strickland and Rutledge. They even had the opportunity to hear some dialogue on the floor of the Senate about the AP U.S. History course, which was a very relevant topic for this group of academic achievers.

After lunch at the Sloppy Floyd building, the Youth Leadership Henry class went to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to learn about the role they play in helping law enforcement in Georgia.

Bradley Martin, a member of this year’s adult Leadership Henry class, did a fascinating and engaging presentation; which ended with a narrated tour of their museum.

This was a great day for these future leaders! Want to see more about this or other class days? “Like” Youth Leadership Henry on Facebook and/or follow @YLHenry on Twitter to keep up with what they are up to.

Youth Leadership Henry, a countywide leadership program for high school sophomores, is designed to develop leadership potential and to acquaint participants with community needs, problems and resources through interaction with local leaders and decision makers.

February 17, 2015

February Ribbon Cuttings February 4, 2015 NLC Tech Services

Contact: Jimmy Potts 49 Hampton Street • McDonough, GA 30253 678-449-6353 • www.nlctech.net

February 14, 2015 Maritza & Frank’s Restaurant Contact: Gustavo Tobias 715 Industrial Blvd • McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 892-0270

Five Star Painting

Contact: Joseph Lodato 608 Banbury Court • McDonough, GA 30253 678-712-4144• www.fivestarpainting.com

February 25, 2015

2015

February 18, 2015 Ideal Creations

Contact: Shane Brock 80 Kimbell Farm Dr • Locust Grove, GA 30248 (404) 906-4369 • www.idealcreationsforlife.com

February 25, 2015 Durden Chiropractic Clinic, Inc

Castillo Real Mexican Cocina & Bar Contact: Marilyn Durden Contact: Ron Castillo 850 Hampton Rd • McDonough, GA 30253 14 Old Jackson Rd. 8 McDonough, GA 30252 (770) 631-7600 (678) 593-5265 • www.facebook.com/castillorealmcdonough www.durdenclinic.com

HenryCounty.com

14

FINANCIAL FOCUS

Time for Some Financial “Spring Cleaning”

college education? If not, you a financial professional for of companies in the same We’ve just about arrived at of your furniture isn’t as might need to “plant some ways of dealing with the industry. You might want to spring, the time when many efficient. Whatever the case, seeds” for potential growth potentially devastating costs consider whether you’d be people spruce up their homes, it may well be time to update by investing in a college of an extended nursing home better off by reducing this yards and other parts of their your environment. And the savings account, such as a stay or another type of longconcentration and using the surroundings. This year, why same thing can happen 529 plan. And you may need term care. proceeds to broaden your not extend that practice a little with your financial “house.” to continually “nourish” your investment mix to create new • Plant some “seeds.” Spring is further and give your financial To reflect changes in your plan by contributing money potential for growth, income and investment environment a family situation, employment, a good time for re-seeding each year. or a combination of both. good “spring cleaning”? economic circumstances, parts of your lawn that may retirement goals and other be bare. Once you’ve planted • Update your “furnishings.”

Here are a few suggestions for • Repair your “roof.” As part of factors, you will need to When you bought and the seeds, of course, you’ll your exterior spring-cleaning doing just that: periodically review your arranged your home’s need to water and fertilize efforts, you might examine • Reduce duplication. If you’ve financial strategy and your furnishings, they might have them to encourage growth. As your roof to determine if you ever worked to “de-clutter” investment portfolio, and been perfectly suited for you look over your financial need to repair or replace any your home, you may have make adjustments as needed. your needs. But now, many landscape, you may also torn or missing shingles. After discovered a lot of extraneous years later, your situation may Tidying up your living space find areas that are somewhat all, a strong roof is essential items. Did you really need three be quite different. Perhaps may help improve your overall barren.

For example, you to protecting your home.

And blenders? Did you have more you’ve said goodbye to grown outlook on life. The same might might be adequately funding your financial foundation remote control devices than children who have struck out be said of a financial spring your own retirement goals needs protection, too — so, you did televisions? As you on their own, so you might cleaning — and you won’t even through your employerreview your life and disability look through your investment want to make new uses for old need a mop. sponsored retirement plan insurance to ensure they are portfolio, you might also find rooms. And maybe your old This article was written by Edward Jones and other investments, but still adequate to meet your some duplication, perhaps in for use by your local Edward Jones “stuff” just isn’t as comfortable Financial are you putting away enough family’s needs.

You also Advisor. Edward Jones does not the form of multiple stocks provide tax or legal advice.

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HenryCounty.com

Race Weekend Rolling in Prizes The Henry County CVB setup a booth in the Atlanta Motor Speedway’s Fan Zone during the Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 Race Weekend. The CVB provided race fans information and a variety of opportunities to win Henry County prizes. The most popular prizes (commemorative t-shirts and cooler bags) and the means for earning them was for people to turn in receipts obtained at Henry County businesses.

Receipts totaling at least $25 earned fans prizes and extended to a chance to ride in the official pace car for those turning in at least $300 in receipts.

The second best way to win prizes was to take a picture with the Henry County Treasure App movie poster cutout. Doing so gave participants an opportunity to spin the Henry County prize wheel.

Everyone was given the chance to try their luck selecting the key that would unlock the treasure chest that sat enticingly in front of the booth. Regardless of age, the excitement when that lock clicked open was universal.

Still after those amazing opportunities there was the chance to win a Henry County cooler tote bag which held desirable items manufactured right here in Henry County.

In order to win this prize, fans only had to drop a slip of paper in the fish bowl.

Throughout race weekend, one could truly see the effort and the benefits that the CVB brought to increasing awareness about our amazing county. People were not only given great prizes on this cold March weekend, they also were given an appreciation for the breadth of offerings available in the county that we call home.

15

17th Annual Hands on Henry Day Hands on Henry is an event organized each spring by the Leadership Henry Class. Volunteers go out into the community and complete projects to make Henry County a better place to live. Hands On Henry volunteers tackle projects from civic organizations, schools, non-profit organizations, community clubs, churches, and public facilities (parks, community centers, etc.) that need volunteers to perform beautification or other site improvement projects.

The 17th Annual Hands on Henry Day will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2015. The annual event is sponsored by Leadership Henry, a project of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce. The goals of the event include promoting volunteerism within the county and providing community service to those in need.

Hands on Henry cannot happen without the support of our community and volunteers.

Do you want to be a volunteer for the 2015 Hands on Henry Day? visit www.handsonhenry.org

Go on a Spring Break Adventure Spring Break is coming! Are you ready? You don’t need a big Disney adventure or to hit the beach in sunny Florida to have a week your kids won’t forget.

The Henry County Convention and Visitors Bureau’s (CVB) 2015 Activities Guide, with its treasure map themed cover, offers a guide to Henry County’s adventures.

Tree climbing, helicopter rides, animal encounters and high speed tours are all available within Henry County’s borders.

Let your kids feel like Indiana Jones on a treasure hunt by downloading the CVB’s new free “Treasure App” where they can discover Henry County’s “hidden gems,” search for hidden clues and earn virtual “gold coins.” They can even walk away with souvenirs from their Henry County Spring Break Staycation by using the gold coins they earned to “buy” items from the in-app store. As a cost conscious parent you will love the discounts and special offers unlocked while completing the “Quests of Henry County.” To learn more about the app visit bit.ly/HCTreasureApp. To create your spring break itinerary start at www.

VisitHenryCountyGeoriga.com. Build your customized adventure by using the “Trip Planner” tool and share your plans with friends and family by email or print for easy reference.

Pick up a 2015 Henry County Activities Guide today to learn how your family can enjoy new restaurants and new experiences all while enjoying the comfort of your own bed.

HenryCounty.com

16

PROVIDING SECOND CHANCES

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