henrycounty.com a henry county chamber of commerce publication
YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS
FEBRUARY 2015
Hampton • Locust Grove • McDonough • Stockbridge
in this issue
New Date, More Racing: 4 Days Of
Chair’s Message 2 Business Profile 3 Calendar 4 SBDC 5 Chamber Briefs 6 Leadership Henry 6 Henry Happenings 7 Chamber Membership 10 Ribbon Cuttings 10 Business After Hours 11 Business Boosters Luncheon 12
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.
Coming To Atlanta Motor Speedway
NASCAR racing is returning to Atlanta Motor Speedway with a brand new date in 2015. Just the second stop on this year’s NASCAR schedule, race fans attending the Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 weekend at AMS, Feb. 26 through March 1, will get an earlyseason look at some of the top drivers on the circuit in the first race of the season with the brand new rules package following the seasonopening stop in Daytona. This year’s NASCAR weekend in Atlanta will include four straight days of on-track
action. The high-speed lineup kicks off with a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series open team test on Thursday, Feb. 26, as drivers get their first taste of the AMS oval in the new season. Friday, Sprint Cup Series qualifying will hit the track to determine the starting lineup and pole position for Sunday’s Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 main event. Saturday will feature a full day of highoctane NASCAR action, capped off by a rare racing doubleheader. The green flag drops on the Hisense 250 XFINITY Series race at 2 p.m.,
followed by a 200-mile Camping World Truck Series Race, as the trucks return to the AMS oval for the first time since 2012. On Sunday, March 1, the Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 Sprint Cup Series race will round out Atlanta’s NASCAR weekend with a 1 p.m. start time. Race fans can affordably attend all four action-packed days of NASCAR for as low as $84. Adult tickets start at just $39 for Sunday’s Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 Sprint Cup Series race. Sunday ticketholders can upgrade their weekend with general admission tickets to
Henry County Day at the Capitol As a member of the chamber of commerce, you can have your events listed in the chamber newsletter, e-newsletter, on Facebook and have the opportunity to be highlighted in other chamber publications.
Thursday, February 26, is Henry County Day at the Capitol. This annual event, co-hosted by the Henry County Chamber of Commerce and the Henry County Development Authority, affords our business and civic leaders an opportunity to visit the state capitol and to meet with legislators involved in decision making processes that impact Henry County. It also provides an opportunity to showcase Henry County attractions and products to this audience of state officials. To attend or to donate local gift items, contact the Chamber at 770-957-5786.
both Friday’s Sprint Cup Series qualifying and Saturday’s race doubleheader for as low as $45. Plus, admission is free to Thursday’s NASCAR Sprint Cup Series open team test for anyone with a ticket to Sunday’s race. Tickets may be purchased at www. atlantamotorspeedway.com, Ticketmaster or at the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office. For more information and details on ticket speicals, contact the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office at (770) 946-4211, (877) 9-AMSTIX or visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com.
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HenryCounty.com
Message from the Chair Together ... Let’s celebrate!!!
COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY
June Wood
As we continue with this year’s theme,“Together Making Henry Better ... our Chamber ... our Community,” it’s that time of year to recognize those who make a positive impact in our community! Our Henry County Chamber of Commerce (HCCC) will host several events this month to celebrate and honor some of our outstanding students, individuals and businesses. We invite you to join us at one of the most notable events in our county. The HCCC Annual Banquet on February 7th, 2015. It is a wonderful time of celebration to honor our Volunteer, Citizen, Business and Public Servant of the year who were nominated and then selected by past recipients. It is not a surprise that all who have and will receive these recognitions have given unselfishly with much dedication to make Henry a better place to live and work. Henry County has many talent and dedicated individuals, as well as resources, to enhance our community. Who will be the
honorees this year? Please come to find out. On February 10th, the HCCC will host our annual Student/Teacher Appreciation Recognition (STAR) Breakfast to honor our outstanding students and teachers in Henry County. This is an impressive opportunity to witness the great talent of students and teachers in our public and private school systems. It’s always interesting to hear from our top performing SAT students about their perspective of Henry County now and for future careers. It is also a way to honor some of our dedicated teachers who make such life-long impacts in the lives of our children. This indeed is a time to celebrate our future leaders and to encourage our education team. On February 26th, Henry County Capitol Day, we will have another opportunity to come together as a community as we honor our Henry County Delegation and meet with some other state legislators. This day gives us an opportunity to feature
Henry County at the State Capitol and express interest in key legislative issues/requests as a community. This current delegation has been, and continues to be, quite instrumental with our Henry County Legislative Agendas and represents Henry County in ways that has gained much state respect. As a reminder, it was this current Henry County Delegation that acquired state funding for our Southern Crescent Technical College Henry Campus and its expansion. Let’s celebrate and encourage our delegation during the 2015 General Assembly. Oftentimes, we tend to focus on the negatives, but there are so many positive aspects of our county. Let’s continue to focus on the positives and collaborate to make Henry Better. Again, we invite you to join us at the Henry Chamber Annual Banquet on February 7th, the Student/Teacher Appreciation Recognition (STAR) Breakfast on February 10th, and Henry Day at the Capitol February 26th! Please visit our Henry Chamber Website for more details.
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Business Profile Absolutely Flowers About Absolutely Flowers Absolutely Flowers was established in 1997 by the late Jeanette Gardner. Vanessa Hayes worked for Mrs. Gardner for many years and eventually purchased Absolutely Flowers in 2003. Three years later Vanessa Hayes purchased Always Flowers and Gifts. Mrs. Gardner was also the original owner of McDonough Flowers and Gifts which was established in 1978. In 2009 Vanessa Hayes purchased McDonough Flowers and Gifts. This past September 2014, McDonough Flowers and Gifts merged with Absolutely Flowers.
Greg Cannon
Absolutely Flowers is a full service florist. They specialize in contemporary, traditional and high style floral arrangements. Their well-trained wedding consultants are always ready to help and they carry the largest wedding and event inventory. They also carry permanent botanicals for your home and office. All arrangements, fresh or silk, are designed by their team of designers. Absolutely Flowers is available for all your floral needs. Community Support The company has nine full time employees and 4 part-time employees who are experienced and skilled. Absolutely Flowers of McDonough is Partners in Education with many schools in Henry County. They have Every LIFE has a story. donated their services to various causes in Henry Celebrate it! County. Chamber Involvement 770-914-1414 Absolutely Flowers
www.cannonclevelandfunerals.com
BELLAMY-STRICKLAND Chevrolet • Buick • Pontiac • GMC Trucks
770 -954-3000 BELLAMY STRICKLAND
I-75 . 155 Hwy McDonough
I-75 • Exit 216 145 Industrial Blvd. McDonough, GA
joined the chamber in 1997. “We have benefited in so many ways,” says owner Vanessa Hayes. “The businesses and residences that have moved to Henry County have become very loyal customers over the years. They heard about us through the chamber. The Chamber keeps me informed about our community”. From 2009 through 2014 for five consecutive years, Absolutely Flowers received an award for being in the top 200 florists worldwide. “It is an honor to receive this plaque considering how many florists are in every city in the US alone,” says Vanessa Hayes.
Absolutely Flowers
Flowers for every occasion!
Vanessa Hays Owner 206 Keys Ferry Street McDonough, Georgia 30253 770.898.2212 888.886.2837 www.abflowers.net
Don’t Miss it!
HCCC 48th Annual Banquet Saturday, February 7, 2015 Eagle’s Landing Country Club WWW.HCCCANNUALBANQUET.COM
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FEBRUARY 2015 Sunday
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Monday
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Tuesday
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Wednesday
thursday
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4 8 AM Leadership Henry, BR
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Friday
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Saturday
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8 AM Youth Leadership Henry, BR
6 PM HCCC Annual Banquet, ELCC
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8 AM STAR Student Breakfast
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11:30 AM HCCC Executive Comm, BR
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25 8 AM HCCC BOD, BR 12 PM Ambassadors Luncheon
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
11 AM Business Boosters Luncheon, HR
Henry County Day at the Capitol 5:30 PM Business After Hours, Hamilton State Bank
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 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
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
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 Board of Commissioners 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, Information Specialist
Strawn & Co. 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
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5 Levels of Leadership in the Workplace Judiffier Pearson, hone your skills daily. There are 5 Level4: People Development. Business Consultant levels in the leadership journey that People follow you because you invested Clayton State University SBDC you must successfully traverse in order in them. When you empower people to
Some of the hardest decisions that must be made in the workplace require one of the “softest” skills that an entrepreneur must develop: leadership. True leadership is a journey of influence- nothing more, nothing less. In our social media-driven world where people clamor for “followers” and viral (yet fleeting) fame, it’s easy to confuse popularity with leadership. It’s also easy to miss organic opportunities to make a significant impact on employees, customers, and our communities at-large. If you can increase your influence with others in the workplace, then you can lead your teams more effectively and facilitate desired outcomes. Everything rises and falls on leadership, so make it a point to
to maximize your potential and guide your organization to success: Level1: Position. People follow you because they have to. You’re the owner/ boss, but this is the lowest level of leadership and the weakest form of influence. Aim higher in order to be a true change agent. Level2: Permission. People follow you because they want to. This level is based on getting to know your people, building relationships, and establishing trust. Influence is readily received in a trusting environment. Level3: Production. People follow you because you get results. Your company is profitable; morale is high; and everyone wants to be part of a winning team. As long as you perform, you can sustain your influence.
grow and be leaders in their own right, you reproduce your strengths and build high performing teams. When you invest in others, you also change their lives and sew seeds for lifelong relationships. Level5: Pinnacle. People follow you because of who you are and what you represent. Your personal brand is backed by a legacy of talent mastery, mentorship, and replicating level 4 leaders who will keep the cycle going. This can be a difficult level to achieve, but it has the highest payoff with influence that transcends positions, organizations, and even industries. To learn more about how you can grow as a leader and develop other leaders in your organization, please 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... Henry County District V Commissioner Bruce Holmes on being appointed to the ACCG-Group SelfInsurance Workers’ Compensation Fund Board of Trustees for a one-year term that began on January 1, 2015 by The Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG) Board of Managers.
92.5 on being voted the best local radio station in the south metro area by LifestylesMagazine.net
Henry County Board of Education on being named a Distinguished Board by the Georgia School Boards Association which is the second highest level of recog nition that can be received from the GSBA
Gordon State College who was authorized by the Board of Regents this week to establish a Bachelor of Science in Education with a major in middle grades education, an Additional Education Degree for GSC.
Economic Development Day
An up-close look at Henry County’s economic develop ment and its ties to Georgia’s economic development awaited the Leadership Henry Class of 2015 during their December class day. The day was jam packed with information being presented by state and local officials, while the group also got to venture out in the county to see many of the big name companies who have operations within the county’s boundaries. The morning’s speakers included Lauren Lambiase with the Georgia Department of Economic Development, Jonathan Sangster with Georgia Power, Jim O’Bryan with the Georgia Electric Membership Corporation, and Bob White with the Henry County Development Authority. Each speaker shared their expertise with the class and how Henry County is progressing in attracting new businesses and economic development opportunities to the area, maintaining healthy relationships with current companies calling Henry County home, and keeping Henry County a major player in terms of economic impact for the local and state economy. After lunch, from sponsor 15th Street Pizza,
the class boarded a bus to take a windshield tour of many of the industrial and manufacturing complexes in the county before stopping at ALPLA for a tour. ALPLA is a worldwide leader in plastic bottle innovation, design, and manufacturing. Many of the plastic bottles in your home today were designed and manufactured by ALPLA, and some may have been produced right here in Henry County. The tour of the facility included stops along their production line, in the packaging/loading area, and in their testing labs. The day ended with the class hearing from Carrie Sagel Burns and Patti Davis with Atlanta Movie Tours about the impact the film industry is having on the area. There are several major movies and television shows that film or have filmed in Henry County. Director of Tourism Laura Luker was also able to share many of the unique events that draw tourists and visitors to the county on a routine basis. The January class featured the topic of non-profits and community groups, and how their missions and roles impact Henry County. Community and County Day is routinely rated as one of the most impactful days for class participants.
Taifa Smith Butler who will become The Georgia Budget and Policy Institute’s Board of Directors new executive director, effective April 1, 2015.
Jake Carter of Southern Belle Farm on being recognized for his time and service through the American Farm Bureau Federation. Bob White of the Henry County Development Authority welcomes the class and previews the day ahead.
Newlyweds Toni Holmes (formerly Davis) & Commissioner Bruce Holmes. Toni serves on the Henry County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and is also Chair of the Education Committee. Bruce Holmes serves on the Henry County Board of Commissioners representing District 5. We wish you two all the best! 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!
Class members gather at ALPLA’s McDonough facility offices.
Hair nets were required for the ALPLA tour, but these guys were wondering how that applied to them.
HenryCounty.com
it’s happening in Henry
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5K/10K
Comfortably South of Atlanta Taste & Tour, February 3, 2015 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Merle Manders Conference Center Tour the newly renovated facility, feel the southern charm and enjoy our hospitality. Sample the finest foods and sweets by Cakes and Catering by Originals while mixing and mingling with several other event vendors showcasing inspiring ideas to create a unique wedding or event just for you. Free admission. For more info and to RSVP, contact Diane Lovell at 770-490-1503 or originalscatering@ comcast.net, www.originalscatering. com, www.weddingcakesatlanta.net, www.mmccevents.com 111 Davis Road, Stockbridge 30281
Golden Week Sale - in Celebration of Chinese New Year 02/16/2015 - 02/28/2015 Find extra special savings during Tanger’s Chinese New Year Sale, February 16-28. Shop your favorite brand name outlet stores! Visit www. tangeroutlet.com/coupons for the latest sales information! The Henry Players Present: A Few Good Men February 19, 20 & 21 at 7:30 PM and February 22 at 2:30 PM For more info visit www.henryplayers. com
NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Open Team Testing, Feb. 26, 2015 Atlanta Motor Speedway NASCAR’s top stars return to the high banks of Atlanta Motor Speedway for four days of on-track NASCAR action. The weekend begins with NASCAR Sprint Cup Series open team testing Hampton Chocolate Festival from 1-5:30 p.m. Admission is free for February 14, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM in the Hampton Train Depot those who have purchased tickets to Tickets $10 per person, semi-formal the Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 Sprint evening for adults. For tickets, call 770- Cup Series race scheduled for Sunday, March 1 and just $10 for those without 946-4306. a ticket to Sunday’s race. Call (877) Hot Chocolate 5K & 10K, February 7, 2015 10:00 AM at Nash Farm, 100 Babbs Mill Road, Hampton 30228 Get Set Grow www.getsetgrow.com
9-AMS-TIX, (770) 946-4211, or visit Camping World Truck Series race, all www.atlantamotorspeedway.com. for one price. Adult tickets start at $40. Children 12 and under are admitted Hauler Parade, free with a paid adult ticket in General February 26, 2015, 6:00 PM Admission seating. On-track action Downtown Hampton Richard Petty has accepted the begins at 9 a.m. Call (877) 9-AMSnomination into Hampton Speedway TIX, (770) 946-4211, or visit www. Lane and will be present for the atlantamotorspeedway.com. ceremony at 6:00 PM, parade immediately following. For more info NASCAR Sprint Cup Series call 770-946-4306. Race, March 1, 2015 Atlanta Motor Speedway NASCAR Sprint Cup Series The superstars of the NASCAR Sprint Qualifying, Feb. 27, 2015 Cup Series headline Atlanta’s race Atlanta Motor Speedway Atlanta Motor Speedway’s race weekend weekend for the Folds of Honor continues with Sprint Cup Series, QuikTrip 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Xfinity Series and Camping World Series race. Watch the sparks fly as Truck Series practice sessions, followed the world’s best drivers battle to the by Sprint Cup Series qualifying, which will set the field for Sunday’s Folds of checkered flag as the Sprint Cup Series Honor QuikTrip 500 NASCAR Sprint gets underway in 2015. Adult tickets Cup Series race. Admission is just $20 start at $39 and student tickets start at and kids 12 and under are free with $19. The green flag waves at 1 p.m. Call an adult ticket. On-track action revs (877) 9-AMS-TIX, (770) 946-4211, or up beginning at 10 a.m. Call (877) visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com. 9-AMS-TIX, (770) 946-4211, or visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com. February 28, 2015 NASCAR Xfinity Series & Camping World Truck Series Doubleheader, Feb. 28, 2015 Atlanta Motor Speedway Saturday’s NASCAR action will include Sprint Cup Series final practice, followed by a 250-mile NASCAR Xfinity Series race and a 200-mile NASCAR
Cubihatcha Outdoor Center Mondays – Fridays 8 AM – 4 PM The Cubihatcha Outdoor Center was created to improve and protect existing wildlife habitats, while also providing an avenue for public education and enjoyment. The center has 10 miles of nature trails nestled between three reservoirs. A naturalist is on duty.
that marry small-batch ingenuity with refreshing palatability. Come see how simple ingredients-- barley, water and hops—become something to celebrate. Nash Farm Park Fridays & Saturdays 9 AM – 5 PM The 204-acre Nash Farm Battlefield was the site of the largest cavalry raid in Georgia’s history and is the only battlefield south of Kennesaw Mountain that remains meticulously preserved so that visitors can step back in time to the final days of the Atlanta Campaign. The Nash Farm Battlefield Museum, located on-site, introduces visitors to life at Nash Farm in the 1800s and to its historic role in the Civil War. Free to visit.
Heritage Park Veterans Museum & Wall of Honor Mondays- Saturdays 10 AM – 3 PM Heritage Park The museum hosts an impressive collection of original uniforms, military memorabilia, vehicles and aircraft from World War I to present. The Veterans Wall of Honor, sits atop a 2.5 acre hilltop just steps from the Veterans Museum and is a unique national monument that honors all Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary veterans, living and deceased. Both the Tuesdays – Saturday museum and the wall are free to visit. Noon – 3:00 PM Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary has more Walkin with MS JailHouse Brewing Company than 1,500 animals (exotic, domestic www.getsetgrow.com Tours & Visitation and wildlife) and is open to the public Atlanta Motor Speedway Thursdays 5:30 PM – 8 PM & Track Tour Daily year round. Free to visit. Saturdays 2 PM – 6 PM Atlanta Motor Speedway The tours are only $5 and operate daily Brewed in the former city jail in from the Gift Shop. They include a ride Hampton, Georgia, JailHouse Brewing Company offers hand-crafted beers on the 1.54-mile, quad-oval track.
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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
If you’re looking for the perfect location, we can help. Along with SelectGeorgia, our powerful new state-of-the-art system for finding the best site or building for your company, our team of professionals provides world-class service to meet all your site location needs. We are here to be part of your team by providing our expertise, products, and services to you free of charge. From target industry knowledge to site analysis to visit coordination, we do it all. Contact us. We’re ON so you can be.®
Convention & Visitors Bureau
770-957-3915
770-957-5786
234812-1
770-946-8088 Nail-Air.com
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1709 Highway 20 West Westridge Business Center McDonough, GA 30253
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234807-1
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 75 FIFTH STREET NW, SUITE 175 ATLANTA, GA 30308 ECONDEVGA@SOUTHERNCO.COM WWW.SELECTGEORGIA.NET
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
234809-1
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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 234810-1
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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Ribbon Cuttings
Welcome to our NEW Chamber Members Floor & Decor Jacque Glover 1120 Town Center Village Dr McDonough, GA 30253 Fusion Restaurant & Bar Sherif Riad 380 Hwy 155 South McDonough, GA 30253 (678) 249-5714 Mt. Carmel Personal Care Home Stephanie Khouri 3084 Mt. Carmel Rd. Hampton, GA 30228 (770) 946-3376 NV Enterprises Training Academy Nathaniel Flegler Jr. 371 McDonough Pkwy McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 957-1558 Robinsons Remodeling Chris Robinson 508 Desert Willow Circle Locust Grove, GA 30248 (770) 668-6907
State Chemical Solutions Cezanne Gehris 209 Waters Edge Dr. Locust Grove, GA 30248 (678) 908-3885 Sunbrook Academy Kip Powers 5006 Hwy 155 N Stockbridge, GA 30281 (678) 284-6001 Thrifty Apparel, LLC Gabriella Perez 396 Eagle’s Landing Pkwy Stockbridge, GA 30281 (404) 863-6044 Thunder Tower West Harley-Davidson Arianne Adams 1384 Southlake Pkwy Morrow, GA 30260 (770) 960-6000 Upscale Fashions, Inc. Anita Johnson 5029 N. Henry Blvd. Stockbridge, GA 30281 (770) 506-0101
To our RENEWING Chamber Members A & H Transport, Inc. American Caresource Benchmark North Park Association, LP Bennett International Group, LLC Best Insurance Group Bhat Dental Associates Carver Tire Company, Inc. Central Georgia EMC City of Hampton DALRC, Inc Dolphin Shipping & Trading Edward Jones - Josh Duncan Family Support Circle, Inc. Georgia Power Company Haddon Place Apartments Hargrave, Freeman & Leto, P.C. Henry County Development Authority Henry County Tax Commissioner Heritage at McDonough hibu McDonough Presbyterian Church McGarity Insurance
Minuteman Press Pasta Max Cafe People’s Baptist Academy Perfect Portrait Family Dentistry Preston & Cleveland Wealth Management, LLC PVH Corporation Rowe’s Tree Service Salvation Army, The Snapping Shoals EMC Southern Belle Farm Southern States, LLC Spalding Gas Company Stockbridge First United Methodist Church Summit Racing Equipment The JOY FM, 93.3 Timberridge Presbyterian Church Toni Davis UniVirtual Solutions, Inc. Web Mobile Fusion Wilensky & Kresses Group Zion Baptist Church
Floor & Decor January 14, 2015
American Caresource Locust Grove January 14. 2015
Fusion Restaurant & Bar January 13, 2015
Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals December 8, 2014
1120 Towne Center Village Dr McDonough , GA 30253 (678) 561-9289 www.flooranddecor.com
380 Hwy 155 South McDonough, GA 30253 (678) 249-5714 www.fusionrestaurantandbar.com
4861 Bill Gardner Parkway Locust Grove, GA 30248 (770) 626-5740 Fax: (770) 626-5750 www.americancaresource.com
250 Corporate Center Ct Stockbridge, GA 30253 (770) 389-8100 www.gabehavioralhealth.com
Law Office of Deborah L. Britt, LLC December 3, 2014 176 Atlanta Street, Suite B McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 313-1214
HenryCounty.com
business
Get Ready for an Adventure of Digital Proportions
AFTER HOURS
February
Business After Hours Bank with Confidence.
Hosted by:
Thursday, February 26, 2015 • 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Hamilton State Bank • 4806 North Henry Blvd • Stockbridge, GA 30281
678-593-2431
Hamilton State Bank is a full-service bank with branches across north Georgia. You can bank with confidence at Hamilton State Bank, because they offer the services you need with the service you’ve earned. They provide a variety of personal, business and online banking services to businesses and individuals throughout Georgia. Take this opportunity to learn more about their services while you mingle with colleagues and enjoy refreshments. Business After Hours are free networking events for members and their invited (adult) guests.
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.
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If you don’t have a smart phone you’re going to want to get one. The Henry County Convention and Visitors Bureau is about to launch a new app: The Henry County Treasure App. It’s an app that really is a treasure map to all the hidden gems of Henry County. The gems you will find aren’t the only treasures. You can earn coupons and digital gold coins for visiting local attractions and restaurants. Visit at least five places and you’ll earn enough coins to trade for actual prizes via the inapp store. If you are a regular Indiana Jones and leave no stone unturned completing all the quests, you will earn an entry for one of the grand prizes. Trust us, you will want these grand prizes which include a Walk on the Wild Side Tour and being a “Keeper for a Day” at Noah’s Ark, a ride in a Cobra helicopter courtesy of the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation or a VIP Race Package for the 2016 NASCAR race at Atlanta Motor Speedway which will include hard to get “hot passes” for the pits. The contest will be run for a year but will feature two sets of seasonal quests with different grand prizes for each set. Whether you complete one quest or the whole series is up to you, regardless you’re sure to discover new things about Henry
County you never knew and have fun in the process. The app is free and will be available in either the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store beginning in February. Just search “Henry Treasure App.” Adventure awaits. Happy hunting! For questions, contact Laura Luker at (770) 957-5786 or lluker@ henrycounty.com.
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business
2014 Ambassador of the Year “Josh Duncan”
Boosters luncheon
February Business Boosters Luncheon Employee Benefit Programs
February 19, 2015 • HCCC Hudgins Room 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
is $12 for Chamber members and $20 for non-members. An additional charge of $3.00 will be applied for those who pay at the door. Reservations are required for planning purposes and Chamber members can make reservations and pay online at www. henrycounty.com under “Events” – select the BBL event on February 19. Guests and non-members can RSVP by calling (770) 957-5786 or email preeves@henrycounty. com. To cover catering costs, no-shows will be expected to make payment. Catering provided by:
Golf Classic, Member Appreciation Lunch, Belles, Bulls & Buck$ and our Membership Campaign. In 2014 this wonderful group of volunteers, led by Ambassador Chair Genie Griffin, attended over 50 ribbon cuttings, made over 120 Chamber Connection visits to Chamber members, and brought in over 30 new members during our campaign. This year’s Ambassador
Dottie WISE
Associate Broker dottie.wise@metrobrokers.com metrobrokers.com/dottie.wise
910 Dailey Mill Road McDonough, GA 30253
770-692-3819 Greg Cannon
404.843.2500 Office 678-443-8407 Direct 404.683.0912 Mobile METRO BROKERS 1401 Highway 20 West McDonough, GA 30253
owner
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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 the February Business Boosters Luncheon find out more about various health insurance products available to small businesses. The discounted cost for this catered lunch, for those who register and pay online,
Chamber Ambassadors are representatives from member businesses that attend events, ribbon cuttings and grand openings on behalf of the Chamber. They are the “face of the Chamber” in the community and many times the first contact new businesses have with the Chamber. They also make up our volunteer force that allows the Chamber to put on events such as our annual
of the Year, Josh Duncan of Edward Jones Investments, was the epitome of an Ambassador. Josh attended most of the ribbon cuttings, always engaging with the new members and making them feel welcome. He assisted with the Connection Visits and was always eager to volunteer for Chamber events. Though not required, Josh always let us know if he was not able to attend a ribbon cutting, or other event. He also touted the benefits of Chamber membership to non-members, encouraging them to join. Josh has always represented the Chamber in a professional manner, and we are fortunate to have him on our team. Congratulations Josh!
www.companioncarega.com
Each Firm is independently Owned and Operated
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Youth Leadership Henry asks you to “Save The Date�
The Youth Leadership Henry Board of Directors will be implementing an exciting new component to their program this year. The participants in the Class of 2015 will be hosting their inaugural Henry County Community Youth Job Fair! On Saturday, April 25, 2015, we will have a large number of employers assembled
to interview prospective candidates for positions they are actually hiring for. These will be summer jobs, jobs for students outside their school day, jobs for students that will soon be graduating, and for students looking for internship and Work-Based Learning opportunities for the fall. The venue for the fair will be the Tabernacle of Praise International Church, located at 1640 Highway 42 North in McDonough. The Board appreciates the commitment
to the youth of their community that is shown by Tabernacle of Praise in their sponsorship of this event. It is important to understand that matching employers to high quality Henry County youth is a winning proposition for their entire community. Youth Leadership Henry is getting the word out now, so that the young people in the community can put this event on their calendar. Planning for it now will ensure that potential participants have time to
develop resumes, identify professional references, prepare for common interview questions, and practice interviewing skills. If you are an employer that would be interested in participating, send an email to youthleadership@
leadershiphenry.com. They are looking forward to a great pool of potential applicants for you to choose from! Save the date: April 25, 2015 at Tabernacle of Praise International in McDonough, GA!
Welcome New Members of HCCC Board of Directors
The Henry County Chamber of Commerce (HCCC) is pleased to announce the Board of Directors Class of 2017. Members of the Class of 2017 begin their term effective January 2015.
Sharon Ponder Bennett International Group
Dr. Gopal Rao Atlanta Heart Associates
Gregory Guy Goodyear Aviation Products
Dr. Randall Peters Southern Crescent Technical College
Patti Brown SERVPRO of Henry & Spalding
Kedon Williams Southern States, LLC
Brad Thomas, Snapping Shoals EMC
Rod Meadows Meadows & Macie, PC
Nadia Faucette Georgia Power
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FINANCIAL FOCUS What Does 2015 Hold In Store for Investors? If you’re an investor, you probably had a pretty good year in 2014. But what’s in store for 2015? It’s essentially impossible to make precise predictions about the performance of the financial markets — but it is possible to identify those economic conditions and market forces that may help shape outcomes in the investment world for 2015. By paying close attention to these conditions and forces, you can gain some valuable insights as to what investment moves might make sense for you. Here are a few of these moves: Consider adding stocks. With stock prices having climbed higher and higher for more than five years, you might be wondering if it’s time to scale
back on your ownership of equities. After all, no “bull” market lasts forever. Still, some factors point to continued strength for stocks over the long term. First, we are seeing signs of improving economic growth; employment gains and low oil prices are giving consumers more confidence, leading to a boost in spending. Second, corporate earnings — a key driver of stock prices — were quite strong in the second half of 2014, and companies appear poised to show more good results in 2015. Third, stocks — at least large-company stocks — are still reasonably valued, as measured by their price-toearnings ratios (P/E). Given these factors, you might want to think about adding quality stocks to your holdings — assuming, of
course, these stocks can help meet your needs for a balanced portfolio. And be aware that even the most favorable conditions can’t assure a continued run-up in stock prices, which can and will fluctuate. Prepare for rising interest rates. For several years, interest rates have been at, or near, historical lows. Given the strengthening economy, and the de-creased need for stimulus, the Federal Reserve may well raise short-term interest rates in 2015, perhaps as early as this summer. But longterm rates may start rising even before then, so you may want to take a close look at your bonds and other fixed-rate investments. As you probably know, when interest rates rise, the value of existing bonds typically falls
because investors won’t pay full price for your bonds when they can get newly issued ones that pay higher rates. One way to combat the effects of rising rates is to build a “ladder” consisting of short-, inter-mediate- and longterm bonds. With such a ladder, you’ll be able to redeem your maturing short-term bonds and reinvest them in the new, higherpaying bonds. Look for investment opportunities abroad. Although economic growth has been slow in parts of the world, especially China, many countries have now initiated policies to spur economic growth. These actions can create opportunities for international equity investments. Keep in mind, though, that international investing involves particular risks,
such as currency fluctuations and political and economic instability. So if you are considering foreign investments, you may want to consult with a financial professional. There are no guarantees, but by following the above suggestions, you may be able to take advantage of what looks to be a fairly favorable investment environment for 2015. While you should make most of your investment decisions based on long-term considerations, it’s always a good idea to be attuned to what’s happening in the world around you — and to respond appropriately. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones does not provide tax or legal advice.
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Even If You Lose Your Job, To make sense of your retirement You Still Have Choices. savings alternatives, call today During difficult times, it’s easy to feel like things are out of your control. So it’s essential to consider every financial decision carefully, especially when it comes to your retirement savings. Edward Jones can help. We’ll start by getting to know your goals. Then we’ll sort through your current situation and work with you face-to-face to develop a strategy that can help you keep your retirement on track. 230982-1
Financial Advisor Financial Advisor Financial Advisor John H. Dorminy IV, AAMS® Paul D. Rippa Lin Watts, AAMS® 190 Turner Street 2141 Highway 155 North 305 Olde Towne Way McDonough, GA 30253 McDonough, GA 30252 McDonough, GA 30252 (770) 957-0250 (678) 583-5090 (678) 583-1325
Member SIPC
www.edwardjones.com
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Sponsorship opportunities
2nd Annual Running of the Belles: Nominate a “Belle” Now! Local non-profits can nominate a gentleman as their “belle” to raise money for their organization. Each belle who raises at least $500 will participate in the “Running of the Belles” and earn a percentage of what they raise for their organization. Contact Laura Luker at lluker@henrycounty.com or 770.957.5786 or more information. Nomination forms are available at: bit.ly/RunningBelles
Belle of the Ball Sponsor- $1000 8 complimentary tickets with reserved seating • VIP parking for 4 cars Premiere logo placement on all pre-event advertising • Mention on all social media posts On-site signage • Name on“Big Check” Table at event for opportunity to market directly to 300 attendees Mention and/or logo in Post-Event Coverage Cow Chip Bingo Sponsor- $750 4 complimentary tickets with reserved seating Logo on Cow Chip Bingo Tickets (Deadline: Feb. 25) • Mention on all pre-event advertising Mention on all social media posts • On-site signage Table at Belle’s pasture for opportunity to market directly to 300 attendees Mention and/or logo in Post-Event Coverage Fence Builder Sponsor- $500 2 complimentary tickets with reserved seating • VIP parking for 2 cars Logo on all pre-event advertising • Logo and mention on all social media posts On-site signage • Mention and/or Logo Placement in Post-Event Coverage Cowboy Game Sponsor- $500 or $300 $500 if Chamber provides prizes $300 if Sponsor Provides prize (Must provide a tangible game prize valued at $200 cash value; Prize must be approved by the Chamber) 2 meal tickets (raffle entry can be purchased separately, but not included) Table and Carnival game at event for opportunity to market directly to 300 attendees Logo and mention on all social media posts • Post event photos For Complete sponsor details visit www.henrycounty.com or contact Laura Luker at (770) 957-5786 or lluker@henrycounty.com
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