henrycounty.com a henry county chamber of commerce publication
MAY 2014
YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS
Hampton • Locust Grove • McDonough • Stockbridge
in this issue Chairman’s Message 2 Business Profile 3 Calendar 4 Ribbon Cuttings 5 TIP Luncheon 6 Henry Happenings 7 Chamber Briefs 10 Chamber Membership 10 Business After Hours 11 Business Boosters Luncheon 12 Connection Visits 13 Edward Jones 14
Apply Now For the Class of 2014-2015 For Leadership Henry and Youth Leadership Henry The Class of 2013-2014 has completed Hands On Henry, a community-wide service project planned and executed by the class (photos and more information about the project will be in the Chamber’s June newsletter.) The project represents the final learning experience for the class and precedes their May graduation. That means that it is now time to apply for the Class of 2014-2015!
If you are interested in participating in Leadership Henry, or would like more information, visit leadershiphenry.com. The website has information about class expectations, a link to the online application, and helpful tips for completing the application. The deadline to apply is May 29. To keep up with Leadership Henry, “like” and explore the Facebook page, or send an email to leadership@leadershiphenry.com.
The following calendar for the Class of 2015 reflects the dates of a rich variety of experiences that are planned: August 19, 2014 September 4-5, 2014 October 22, 2014 November 12, 2014 December 10, 2014 January 14, 2015 February 11, 2015 March 18, 2015 April 18, 2015 May 12, 2015
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.
Class of 2015 Kick Off Class Retreat Local Government Day Education Day Economic Development/Tourism Day Community/County Day State Government Day Healthcare Day Hands on Henry Graduation
Youth Leadership Henry wraps up their year The YLH Class of 2014 enjoyed a great year, learning about the many folks in Henry County that make our community a wonderful place. Their exposure to public safety, education, healthcare, state government, and county history broadened their knowledge about the place they call home and how they can make it better. Their capstone community service
project enabled them to put what they learned in Youth Leadership Henry into action. The class is looking forward to graduation on the evening of May 6th. They join the ranks of alumni who, for the last 18 years, have been using the knowledge they gained from the program and the contacts they made to be citizens who contribute and add value to their community. It is now time to take applications
for next year’s class! Those interested in learning more about the program can visit youthleadershiphenry.com, “like” YLH’s Facebook page, or send an email to youthleadership@leadershiphenry.com to get the link for the online application. Photo: County Historian Gene Morris explains historical significance of sites in the county to the YLH class on a bus tour.
Chamber members can enhance their business profile on the Chamber website? To enhance your profile today, contact Diane Ide at 770-957-5786.
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HenryCounty.com
Chairman’s Message
On your mark…get set…GO HAVE SOME FUN IN HENRY COUNTY!
Charlie Scott
As spring marches along and the yellow of pollen diminishes, Henry County continues to provide many opportunities for residents and guests. With school coming to a close, many will be planning summer vacations or summer activities. I hope that you will take the time to learn of the many activities that you can enjoy right here at home. If you are a gardener, Henry County has an abundant supply of stores that can meet your every gardening need, whether you are a novice or a master gardener. As the weather warms, it is the perfect time to do that yard improvement, or even just have a few vegetable plants for your own kitchen use. One of the many Henry County merchants that cater to gardening will have just what you may wish to find for that project. If you love fresh produce, but don’t have either the location or inclination to grow your own, there are pick-your-own farms right here to patronize. In mid- to late April, Southern Belle Farms opens its strawberry picking and as spring turns to summer, blackberries and blueberries will be available. Yule Forest will have blueberries in June. Peaches are great at Gardner Farm in Locust Grove. Find an abundance of local produce at one of the cities’ local farmers markets. If you find yourself in need of summer recreation for the kids in your family, the Parks and Recreation Department has any number of summer recreational activities. If you are looking for something less organized, the opportunities right here at home are boundless. Henry County has over a thousand acres of public parks for your use. At Panola Mountain Park, you can hike, camp or even spend the night in a tree, sleeping in a hammock. Moseley Park on Miller’s Mill Road
in Stockbridge has walking trails and a topqu a l it y disc golf course. Windy Hill Park is one of the area’s finest paintball venues. For a special treat, try your hand at geocaching. This rapidly growing sport uses GPS technology and a few fun hints to let you participate in an ongoing scavenger hunt. There are several geocache locations in Henry County and you can create your own to stimulate others to get out there and participate. For those who appreciate history, the museums at Heritage Park and Nash Farms are open to the public and are free. These fine facilities are staffed by knowledgeable individuals who can help you appreciate the experience of these visits. At Nash Farm, you can get an idea of what life in Henry County was like in the 1800’s as well as see artifacts recovered from the Civil War. The site of Kilpatrick’s Raid, this is the location of one of the last great cavalry battles of the war. When you stop by Heritage Park, browse the community gardens, the historical villages and stroll up to the Veteran’s wall of honor. It is impossible to see this memorial and not come away with a greater appreciation of the contribution of Henry Countians to our freedom. Many weekends in Henry County have special entertainment, including car shows, movies, art and cultural events. The Academy Charlie Scott is President and CEO of Piedmont Henry
Theatre in Stockbridge and the Henry Players have ongoing shows that will make you believe that you are on Broadway. The Henry County Arts Alliance has summer events that allow children of all ages to participate in art adventures. Just a short drive away, Spivey Hall at Clayton State University is one of the finest concert halls in the world. Known for its acoustic excellence, Spivey Hall has a remarkable lineup of world renowned artists. For the animal lovers, the summer could not be complete without a trip to Noah’s Ark animal rescue sanctuary. This is the only place in the world that you can find a lion, tiger and bear living together. Behind-the-scenes and feeding tours are available, or you may just want to stroll through and see the thousands of rescued animals that are enjoying a second chance at life. To have a little more interaction, consider adopting one of the animals from the Henry County Animal Shelter. Many of these are older, well-trained pets who will become great family companions. If you are a race enthusiast, Atlanta Motor Speedway has facility tours that can include a lap around the track. The summer racing series will be an opportunity to see racing up-close and personal. If you are really adventurous, consider one of the special racing schools and see how it feels to circle the track at high speeds. There is no shortage of activities in Henry County for your enjoyment. For more information you can go to www. visithenrycountygeorgia.com for more ideas. If you are looking for someone to help you with any of your needs, use a Chamber member. Our member directory is located at www. henrycounty.com. I hope that you get off to a great start this summer in learning more about your home county.
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Business Profile Henry County Farm Bureau
About the Company Many people know about Farm Bureau insurance, but do not realize that Farm Bureau is an organization made up of two entities. The one less known is the Farm Federation, which existed first. The Federation is a membership organization with the sole purpose of supporting the agricultural community. It plays an active role in social, civic, and educational arenas as well as in local, state and national government. The insurance company was formed later in order to generate funds to provide investments back into the community. Farm Federation members are not required to elect Farm Bureau insurance; however, members are offered discounted insurance as one of their benefits. Farm Bureau traces its roots back to June 1937 when a group of fifty “dirt” farmers from seven Georgia counties met and united for the purpose of having a stronger voice in legislative matters, as well as to strengthen the cooperative marketing of farmer’s products. Henry County Farm Bureau (HCFB) has been in existence since 1941 when the first President, Fred Glass, was elected. Mr. Glass served until 1943. Since then HCFB has operated under the direction of 19 volunteer Presidents, and today is under the direction of Ross McQueen. Henry County Farm Bureau’s membership is 5,500 strong and works to make sure agriculture is protected and promoted in Georgia. Henry County Farm Bureau has played an important role in implementation and holding in force the CUVA and GATE programs, which help Georgia farmers realize lower taxation on farm land and farm inputs. Besides offering insurance, Farm Bureau partners with several companies to offer discounts to its members for such things as, Georgia theme parks, Sea World, car rentals, Sam’s Club memberships, hotel stays, Grainger tools, and a variety of other discounts. The discounts may reduce, or totally negate, the $25 membership fee. Anyone can join Farm Bureau as either a farmer member or an allied member. Agriculture is the number one industry in Georgia, contributing $71.1 billion annually to our state’s economy. Georgia’s farmers produce food, building and clothing materials, and our products are shipped all over the world. Farmers are the backbone of our state’s economy and a major economic driver in most Georgia counties. For example, Georgia-grown onions account for 55% of the total value of spring onions grown nationwide. Georgia peanuts surpassed $1.1 billion in farm gate value, which equals 49% of the value of U.S. grown peanuts. Georgia is also among the nation’s leaders in the production of pecans, cucumbers, watermelons, cotton, and poultry broilers. As lawmakers become further removed from the actual planting and harvesting, raising of cattle, poultry, or milk cows, they sometimes fail to realize the impact some of their
legislation has on the farmer – which ultimately impacts the cost of food at the grocery store. Farm Bureau’s Legislative Committee works to maintain contact with elected officials and to protect Georgia farmers by monitoring bills before they become laws that may have a negative impact on agriculture, as well as by writing new laws that protect the future of agriculture. Community Support Henry County Farm Bureau is an interested and invested partner in the education of our county’s students. We have a strong “Young Farmer Committee” that works to identify tomorrow’s agricultural leaders. While HC Tax Commissioner, HCFB works in many of the middle and Da vid Curry, at Farmer elementary schools, they are a presence in all nine Henry Appreciation Dinner County High Schools. Through programs like “FFA” and “Ag in the Classroom” children and youth learn about the origin of their food, animal agriculture, diet, nutrition and food safety. HCFB also sponsors art and essay contests among students, rewarding them with prize money for their work and interest. In addition, HCFB offers scholarship monies to seniors who qualify and who seek to enter college in an ag-related field of study. Ross and Carol McQueen handing out balloons Farm Bureau members attend local town hall meetings, July 2013 at Farmers Market Showcase visit with the Georgia General Assembly, and work with Senators and Representatives in Washington, D.C. Farm Bureau has lobbyists who are vigilant and proactively work to protect and promote Georgia’s agriculture. HCFB hosts a “Meet the Candidate” fish fry each June to give candidates running for local office a platform and an audience so they may be heard in the hope that citizens will cast an informed vote. HCFB also hosts a “Farmer Appreciation Dinner” each August to say thank you to our farmers. Both events are open to the public and the dinner is free of charge. These events serve as investments back into our community. Chamber Involvement “Henry County Farm Bureau has been a Chamber member since 1996 and views its affiliation with the Henry County Chamber of Commerce as a privilege. We are Kathy Carter of the Women’s Committee teaching Ag in the fortunate to have an active and thriving Chamber in this Class at H.C. schools county and everyone benefits from working relationships formed there. Being a Chamber member gives us insight into the affairs of our county and unites us so that we can promote improvement and healthy growth” says Ross. For more information about Henry County Farm Bureau, or to join: 770-957-2608 www.gfb.org
Ross McQueen, HCFB President
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MAY 2014 Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
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thursday
8:30 AM Community Connections Comm, BR
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Friday
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Saturday
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8 AM Youth Leadership Henry BOD, BR
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11:30 AM Government Affairs Comm, HR
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15 10 AM Small Business Council, BR 11 AM Business Boosters Luncheon, HR
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19 11:30 AM HCCC Executive Comm, BR
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8:30 AM CVB BOD, BR 8:30 AM Edu Comm 10 AM Membership Comm, BR
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21 3 PM One Henry Econ Devp Comm, BR
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5:30 PM Business After Hours, The Original Shane’s Rib Shack
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7:30 AM HCCC BOD, BR 12 PM Ambassadors Luncheon Chamber Closed Chamber Staff David Gill, President and CEO Laura Luker, Director of Tourism Diane Ide, Director of Communications Gary Sparrow, Membership Director Phyllis Reeves, Information Specialist 2014 Board of Directors Executive Committee Charlie Scott, Chairman, Piedmont Henry June Wood, Chair Elect, Individual Member Leonard Moreland, Secretary/Treasurer, Heritage Bank Eddie Ausband, Immediate Past Chair, The Ausband Agency, Inc. Brad Thomas, Vice Chair for Economic & Cultural Development, Snapping Shoals EMC William Strickland, Vice Chair for Chamber Development, Bellamy-Strickland Chevrolet-Buick-GMC Shane Persaud, Vice Chair for Government & Education, Communities in Schools of Henry County
Jeff Mills, CVB Chair David Gill, HCCC President and CEO CLASS OF 2014 James Chafin, Henry County State Court Lisa Kinchen, Southern Journal Magazine Leonard Moreland, Heritage Bank Sharon Ponder, Bennett International Group, LLC William Strickland, Bellamy-Strickland Chevrolet-Buick-GMC Brad Thomas, Snapping Shoals EMC CLASS OF 2015 Herschel Arant, Central Georgia EMC Greg Hammonds, Whaley Hammonds Tomasello John Newman, Classic Landscapes, Inc. Rhett Tucker, Checks Superstore Laura Turner, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta June Wood, Individual Member
CLASS OF 2016 Toni Davis, Individual Member Wayne Lowrey, United Community Bank Melissa Malcom, Melissa P. Malcom, LLC Steve Nail, Nail Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Shane Persaud, Communities In Schools of Henry County Denise Sowell, Cap1tol Street Financial Services Group Ex Officio Members Tommy Smith, Chairman, HC Board of Commissioners Mayor Billy Copeland, City of McDonough Mayor Robert Price, City of Locust Grove Mayor Steve Hutchison, City of Hampton Mayor Tim Thompson, City of Stockbridge Rodney Bowler, Superintendent, Henry County Schools Bill Herndon, Chairman, Henry County Development Authority Roderick Burch, Henry County Water Authority Mary Evans-Battle, Chair, Leadership Henry
CHAIR APPOINTEES Rod Meadows, Meadows & Macie, PC Nick Williams, Eagle’s Landing Family Practice
Strawn & Co.
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Insurance
April 4 Graffiti’s Pizza and Italian Cafe
Helping you find the right direction for all your insurance needs.
1170 Highway 1555 South McDonough, GA 30253 Contact: Adam Tallman (770) 898-0155 www.facebook.com/pages/ Graffitis-Pizza-and-ItalianCafe/199293540137388
April 9 TMR Security Solutions
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
950 Eagles Landing Parkway, #174 Stockbridge, GA 30281 Contact: Ron Shaw (404) 372-1829 www.tmrsecuritysolutions.com
Want Marketing Success? Choose Wisely By Alisa Kirk, Area Director, Clayton State University SBDC I have to sigh when I talk to a small business owner who asks for marketing tips, but who, when asked the question, “Who is your target market?” answers, “Everyone who buys (insert product or service name here).” Want to know the number one marketing mistake business owners make? It’s failure to choose. You see, it’s extremely difficult to launch an effective marketing campaign if you don’t thoroughly understand your target market. Let’s use a lawn care business as an example. The overall market
for lawn care is anyone who has a lawn. But effective marketing speaks to the wants, needs, and problems of a specific market. “Anyone who has a lawn” consists of large companies, small offices, people with farms, families in large neighborhoods with strict landscaping rules, elderly homeowners with small lawns, and so on. Are the wants, needs, and problems of any of these two groups the same? So how are you going to market to them? Choose. The most successful businesses, large or small, plan specific marketing targeted toward specific segments of their market. Small business owners often don’t have the marketing budget to do multiple marketing campaigns, so it’s imperative
that they choose which target markets to reach out to. A very small business with a limited budget often must choose just one target market. As the business grows, it can add target markets to expand into. But, as I said earlier, business owners are often afraid to choose. They tell me that they don’t want to leave anyone off the table. Here’s what I tell them: “You took a chance starting this business, and choosing a target market that you can fully develop is another gamble. I guarantee, though, that if you examine the most successful small business, you’ll see that in the beginning, the owner(s) chose specific groups to target. Only you can decide if you want to take a chance on success.”
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TIP Luncheon Could Welcome 350 New Teachers in July The Henry County Chamber of Commerce each year sponsors Teacher Induction Program luncheon to welcome new teachers to our school system – and the coming 2014-15 school year could see as many as 350 teachers new to Henry County. Many Chamber members support this event by way of sponsorships and/or providing useful items for the teacher gift bags. Sponsors
receive recognition for their support in Chamber publications and communications and Platinum sponsor names go on the gift bag itself. Those who provide Items for the gift bags tend to put their business name and/or logo on their items for marketing purposes. Since the number of teachers this year is higher than in past years, and because of the length of lead time required for members to purchase
personalized items, we want to provide as much information as possible and as early as possible to facilitate your planning and ordering. The luncheon will take place on Thursday, July 24. Gift bag items will need to be at the Chamber by Friday, July 18 so that gift bags can be stuffed on July 21. For planning purposes, sponsors need to be identified by June 18. Sponsorships not only reflect your company’s support of teachers, the
monies help to fund the luncheon and provide useful items for each teacher. Please join with the Chamber in welcoming the new teachers to our county – these important people not only work with and train the workforce of tomorrow, they each have significant impact on our local economy. Suggested items for the gift bags include (but are not limited to):*
Tri-colored highlighters • Ballpoint pens • Dry erase markers with eraser • Water bottles • Keychain flashlight • Mini stapler Magnetic memo holder/clip • Magnifier ruler • Memo holder • Paperweight • Tape measure • Mirror • Small calculator • Staple remover Paper clips / holders • Note pads • Wooden ruler • Small first aid kit • Assorted color gel pens • Stylus • Small packs of tissues • Post-it notes *Printed advertisements such as promotional flyers, Sponsorship Opportunities brochures, etc. cannot be accepted unless they contain a coupon for a FREE item or service not requiring a purchase. Gold - $250
• Monetary contribution towards the event • Three of your representatives may attend the luncheon to help serve, hand out gift bags, and meet the teachers • Media coverage – Chamber newsletter and communications Silver - $150 • Monetary contribution towards the event • Two of your representatives may attend the luncheon to help serve, hand out gift bags, and meet the teachers • Media coverage – Chamber newsletter and communications Bronze - $100 • Monetary contribution towards the event • One representative may attend the luncheon to help serve, hand out gift bags, and meet the teachers • Media coverage – Chamber newsletter and communications
Reminder: Gift Bag items must be at the Chamber by July 18. Call the Chamber to join the “Stuffing Party” at 770-957-5786. OF CLAYTON COUNTY OF DECATUR OF HENRY & SPALDING COUNTIES
FIRE & WATER- CLEANUP & RESTORATION 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE
Danny Brown General Manager 934 DAILEY MILL ROAD McDONOUGH, GA 30253 dbrown@servpro8537.com
(770) 997-5689 (404) 378-9998 (678) 432-3003 FAX: (770) 914-1078
Nationally Known - Locally Owned
BELLAMY-STRICKLAND Chevrolet • Buick • Pontiac • GMC Trucks BELLAMY STRICKLAND
I-75 . 155 Hwy McDonough
Chamber members stuffed 250 TIP bags in June 2013
I-75 • Exit 216 145 Industrial Blvd. McDonough, GA
770 -954-3000
HenryCounty.com
it’s happening in Henry
local competitors power up for weekly drag racing among several divisions. Everything from fullblown dragsters to grandma’s grocery-getter will compete in side-by-side, heads-up drag racing along the speedway’s pit road eighth-mile drag strip. The ShowN-Shine Car Show offers fans a chance to show off their rides in the comforts of the NASCAR garage. Participating Show-N-Shine vehicles will be displayed on the front stretch prior to the start of opening ceremonies, allowing fans an opportunity to walk on the track and look at the show cars up-close. Admission is only $8 and children five and under are free. Visit www. atlantamotorspeedway.com for Church in McDonough for the more information or call (770) 9466th Annual “Run for the Bun,” 4211. benefiting Pregnancy Resource Center. www.getsetgrow.com Haven House Hustle 5K
Comfortably South of Atlanta
Hope Glows 5K & Glow Afterparty May 3 – 7:00 p.m. Park @ Sixth Griffin, GA Relay for Life Join GSG at the Park @ Sixth in May 2 – 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. Downtown Griffin for the 2nd Union Grove High School Annual HOPE GLOWS 5K event Join Relay For Life and communities and GLOW After Party!! Proceeds across the globe to fight back benefiting the Eternal Hope against cancer at the 2014 Relay Hospice Volunteer Organization. For Life Henry County. For more information, contact Caroline Ladies Night Out on Windom at 770-632-6937 or www. the McDonough Square relayforlife.org. May 8 – 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. McDonough Square Rush Ministries The Main Street McDonough May 2 – 3 Program and the McDonough Square Merchants look forward Atlanta Motor Speedway RUSH Ministries brings you the to seeing you and your friends worship experience of the year! downtown. Participating merchants Featuring Hillsong United, Jesus will have prizes, fun offerings and/ Culture, Colton Dixon in addition or special discounts for guests. Don’t forget to register for the to speakers Pastor Carl Lentz of drawings and the Grand Prize Hillsong NYC, Marc Pritchett, and Giveaway. May’s theme is Mother/ Nick Hall! Visit www.rushministries. Daughter and the Host Business com for more information. is Moye’s. For more information, call 770-898-9311 or visit www. mainstreetmcdonough.com Historic Mayor’s Tour May 3 - 9:30am – 11:00am McDonough Welcome Center Mayor Copeland will host the historic walk around downtown. Participants are asked to meet at the McDonough Welcome Center at 9:30 am. Wear comfortable shoes Friday Night Drags and bring water. Tour is FREE. & Show-N-Shine May 9, 16 & 30 Run for the Bun 5K Atlanta Motor Speedway May 3 – 9:00 a.m. Competing nearly every Friday Momentum Baptist Church Join Get Set Grow at Momentum night from May through September,
7 in Legends and Bandolero cars. Kids age six to 11 are admitted for just $2 while adults pay only $6; spectator admission is free for children ages five and younger. Visit www.atlantamotorspeedway. com for more information or call (770) 946-4211.
37th Annual Geranium Festival May 17 – 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Downtown McDonough The Geranium Festival is an Arts and Craft Festival featuring exhibitors and vendors from across the Southeast! There is something for everyone at the Geranium Festival including arts & crafts, food, and a children’s area. Experience homemade and original crafts on sale! There will be jewelry, woodworking, clothing, pet items and much, much more. Enjoy great festival food!
May 10 – 9:00 a.m. Locust Grove City Hall More information at www. henryhavenhouse.org.
Moms Rock 5K May 10 – 8:00 a.m. Downtown McDonough Join GSG in celebrating moms of all Richard Petty Driving Experience kinds at the Moms Rock 5K! May 23-24 Atlanta Motor Speedway For more information visit www. drivepetty.com or call 1 (800) BEPETTY.
your favorite brand name outlet stores! Visit www.tangeroutlet. com/coupons for the latest sales information!
8th Annual Peach Stand Road Race May 24 – 8:00 a.m. Gardner Farm Peach Stand Memorial March May 26 – 9:00 a.m. Merle Manders Conference Center (Starting Point) The Memorial March of Stockbridge is an event hosted by the City to remember and honor men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The event is a ceremonial one mile walk intended to provide the community with a time to fellowship and properly honor fallen soldiers. Registration and check-in for the walk will begin at 7:30 am at Merle Manders Center. At this time, participants will be able to pick up their t-shirt and have a biscuit and coffee. The ceremonial walk will begin at 9:00 am. Please note that this is not a parade; however, if you would like to participate and are unable to walk, please indicate that on your registration form. For registration and sponsorship information please visit the website (www.cityofstockbridge.com) or contact the office at events@ cityofstockbridge-ga.gov.
ELHS Ekiden Relay May 31 – 8:00 a.m. Nash Farm Tanger’s Memorial Day Weekend Sale Join GSG and the Eagle’s Landing May 23-26 High School Athletic Department Tanger Outlet Center for the first ever Ekiden 12K Relay Art in the Park Find extra summer savings Race! May 10 – Noon – 5:00 p.m. during Tanger’s Memorial Day McDonough Square Park Come out and watch artists at work Sale, May 23 - 26 with a Super or pick up a brush and try your Saturday Sidewalk Sale. Shop hand at painting. You might just discover a little Picasso inside! This event is hosted by the McDonough Arts Council. Cremation Services
Companion Care
Thursday Thunder May 17 Atlanta Motor Speedway Atlanta Motor Speedway’s grassroots racing series Thursday Thunders runs ten weeks throughout the summer giving NASCAR’s stars of tomorrow the opportunity to compete each week
910 Dailey Mill Road McDonough, GA 30253
770-692-3819 Greg Cannon owner
“Lillie”
www.companioncarega.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! Ethan Hildreth Superintendent 770-957-6601 770-914-6178 FAX ethan.hildreth@henry.k12.ga.us
770-946-8088 Nail-Air.com
City of McDonough Billy Copeland, Mayor
770-957-3915
Henry County’s choice for
22 N. Zack Hinton Parkway McDonough, Georgia 30253
Henry County Chamber of Commerce Convention & Visitors Bureau 1709 Highway 20 West Westridge Business Center McDonough, GA 30253
770-957-5786
Eddie Ausband, CFP 8 Macon Street McDonough, GA 30253 770.389.9060 x102 eausband@revanta.com
770-775-7857 www.cgemc.com
City of Stockbridge Tim Thompson, Mayor 770-389-7910
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McDonough
McDonough 865 Hwy.20/81 West 865 Hwy.20/81 West McDonough, GA 30253
McDonough, GA 30253 770-898-1988 770-898-1988
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 75 FIFTH STREET NW, SUITE 175 ATLANTA, GA 30308 ECONDEVGA@SOUTHERNCO.COM WWW.SELECTGEORGIA.NET
Henry County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Proudly Serving Henry County
StockbriDge
StockbriDge 850 Eagles Lndg. Pkwy. 850 Eagles Lndg. Pkwy. Stockbridge, GA 30281 Stockbridge, GA 30281 770-507-5855 770-507-5855
LocuSt grove
LocuSt grovePkwy. 4870 Bill Gardner 4870 BillGrove, Gardner Locust HAPkwy. 30248 Locust Grove, HA 30248
770-288-3500
770-288-3500
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March Chamber Briefs. Congratulations to... Marcia Taylor, President and CEO of Bennett International Group who was named the 2014 Influential Woman in Trucking by the Women In Trucking organization and Navistar.
Dr. Ethan Hildreth, who was one of three out of 190 school superintendents to be awarded the 2014 Georgia School Superintendents Association President’s Award. Dr. Hildreth is pictured above at the award ceremony with four former Henry County School Superintendents Herb Garrett; Dr. Jack Parish; Michael Surma; and Rodney Bowler. At left is Dr. Hildreth receiving the award from Dr. Stephanie Gordy, Director of Griffin Regional Educational Service Agency.
served as chairperson of the Department of Marketing in the School of Business at Montclair State University in New Jersey since 2008.
Piedmont Henry Hospital on being named to the Georgia Hospital Association’s Partnership for Health and Accountability Core Measures Honor Roll. Piedmont Henry was one of 23 hospitals in Georgia to be placed in the Presidential category, one of the highest on the list. Randstad; Clayton State University; Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta; Emory Healthcare, Inc.; Edward Jones; Bennett International Group, LLC; Premier Elevator; Hire Dynamics; Peachtree Planning Corporation on being named by The Atlanta Journal & Constitution a Top 100 Workplaces in the Atlanta area.
Kimberly Underdue, CEO of Underdue Social Services, Inc. on Dr. Avinandan being selected to participate in the Small (Avi) Mukherjee Business Association’s 2014 Emerging on being appointed Leaders executive level training program. Dean of the College of Business If you are a Chamber member with at Clayton State good news to share, send your logo University effective and/or photo and information to August 1. Dr. dide@henrycounty.com, and let us Mukherjee has congratulate YOUR business!
Welcome to our NEW Chamber Members Angelle’s Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. Cassandra Freeman 2030 Avalon Pkwy McDonough, GA 30253 678-432-2300 Black Lion Commercial Real Estate Group Inc. Nelson Priester Jr. 215 LaBrea Blvd. McDonough , GA 30253 404-731-2049 Cruise One Lawrence Barnes 5916 East Lake Pkwy McDonough, GA 30253 770-898-2577 Donna McBride 127 Royal Burgess Way Stockbridge, GA 30281 678-499-8094
Global Impact Solutions, LLC Shirley Arvey 104 Wisteria Way Stockbridge, GA 30281 770-714-5719
Shane’s Rib Shack Rachel Settle 2148 Hwy. 20 W Stockbridge, GA 30281 770-957-8818
Graffiti’s Pizza and Italian Cafe Adam Tallman 1170 Highway 155 South McDonough, GA 30253 770-898-0155
Speedway Tax Service Frederyck Odom 140 Oak St. Hampton, GA 30228 770-897-9300
Light of the World Christian Tabernacle Intl. Meosha Kimbrough 5883 Hwy 155 N Stockbridge, GA 30281 678-565-7001
TMR Security Solutions Ronnie Shaw 950 Eagles landing Pkwy. #174 Stockbridge, GA 30281 404-372-1829
OnsiteRIS, Inc. Steve Cook 2010 Avalon Parkway McDonough, GA 30253 404-952-2600
Way of the Cross Baptist Church Steven Bell 1045 Butterfly Cove Way Locust Grove, GA 30248 404-550-9592
To our RENEWING Chamber Members Georgia Flooring Outlet Georgia Wounded Heroes Goodyear Aviation Products Henry County Branch of the NAACP Henry County Cancer Services, Inc Henry County Library System Henry County Water Authority LifeSouth Community Blood Centers McDonough Primary Care Miracle Method Surface Refinishing of Henry County Mobley’s Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Park-N-Ticket Paychex, Inc Peachtree Peddlers & Peachtree Antique Center
Physical Therapy in Motion, Inc. Piedmont Henry Plumbing Distributors, Inc. Prevent Child Abuse Henry County Retirement & Wealth Strategies Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity Speer Entertainment Services Stonegate at Eagle’s Landing Sundance Creek SunTrust Bank - Main Branch Sutton Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, P.C. Tri-Copy Office Equipment UPS Store (The) Villas at South Point
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business AFTER HOURS
May Business After Hours Hosted by The Original Shane’s Rib Shack 2136 Highway 155 N, McDonough Thursday, May 24th from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Shane’s Original Rib Shack got its start on Highway 155 and Henry County is proud that they did! Shane’s is “the place to go for the best BBQ, ribs, chicken and more.” What started in a tiny little shack in McDonough has grown to become the model of fast casual BBQ. Founder Shane Thompson quit his neck-tie-wearing corporate job, dusted off his grandfather’s secret sauce recipe and, along with the support of his wife, Stacey, made
his dream of owning a family BBQ restaurant come true. His Grandad told Shane “do what you love, and do it better than anyone else.” That seems to be the key to success as Shane’s continues to grow and expand – even in Henry County. Business After Hours are monthly networking events hosted by Chamber members for current and potential Chamber members and invited guests (adults only please). The events are free and you do not
need to RSVP to attend. Join us and get to know your fellow chamber members, business neighbors, and to make new friends. Bring plenty of business cards for networking and for a chance to win door prizes. Each month there is a Chamber jackpot drawing -- but you MUST be present to win. The jackpot will be at $450 – are you smart enough to be there, and lucky enough to win? Make the event even more fun -- bring a door prize!
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Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Hosted Business After Hours The March 27 Business After Hours at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta in Stockbridge really brought out people’s true character as captured by a talented local caricature artist. A great number of attendees went home with fun representations of themselves to enjoy. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta has an urgent care facility as well as a sports injury treatment facility co-located on Hudson Bridge Road. Both clinics treat children under 21 years of age. Laura Turner, Community Outreach Liaison with CHOA, introduced CHOA staff members and explained the mission of each facility. “We are so excited to host everyone at our Sports Medicine facility. While we would love to have you visit Urgent Care too, we are open until 9:00 pm each nigh so
our staff are busy caring for patients right now,” said Laura. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is meeting a real need on the southside of Atlanta. The urgent care facility has seen capacity numbers since its opening in August 2012. The sports medicine facility opened in October 2013 and provides a convenient location for Henry County children to receive therapy for sports-related and other injuries/illnesses. CHOA is definitely providing great service to Henry County, and has quickly partnered with numerous organizations to sponsor a number of non-profits and events, thanks in large part to Laura. Numerous door prizes were given away, including a Kindle donated by
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and won by Kevin Smith with Toppan Interamerica, Inc.. Chamber members generously provide door prizes, making Business After Hours even more fun. The following names were drawn for the $400 Chamber jackpot: Christa Johnson with Verizon Wireless Communications; Noel Pagan with Community Christian School; and Ron Spratt with the Morrow Branch of SunTrust Bank. Since they were not present to win, the jackpot increases by $50 for May (there will be no Business After Hours in April in order to attend Belles, Bulls & Buck$ on April 25). To see more photos from the March 27 Business After Hours, check out the Chamber’s Facebook page.
Akeisha’s Caricature
CHOA’s Laura Turner hosted BAH
Winning Door Prizes
Laura’s Caricature by Tony
Entertainment That Draws a Crowd!TM
Need a Caricature Artist? Call Tony! 678-817-0169 www.tonybrischler.com
Ladies of The School Newsletter
Kevin Smith Won the Kindle
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business
Boosters luncheon
May Business Boosters Luncheon
BOC Chairman Provides County Update Over 70 attendees turned out for the March 20 Business Boosters Luncheon featuring Board of Commissioners Chairman, Tommy Smith. Mr. Smith provided a “State of the County” presentation, beginning with the passage of SPLOST IV and reviewing the projects planned for the county and for each district and explaining how those projects were determined. Mr. Smith advised attendees of potential upcoming changes in tax assessments and property tax liabilities; he covered projects that will address the changes needed to accommodate the managed lanes through Henry County; and he answered all questions attendees posed, staying after the lunch to ensure that individuals felt heard and understood his responses. Farm House Catering, located in McDonough, prepared the meal. Several participants won door prizes. To view all the photos from this luncheon, visit the Chamber’s Facebook page.
Henry County Commission Chairman, Tommy Smith
May 15, 2014 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
So The Economy Is Improving ... What Effect Will That Have on My Henry County Tax Assessment / Taxes??? Catered by: Chairman Smith provides county updates
The good news is that the economy is slowly, but surely, starting to turn around; and that there is little impact to business taxes and assessments right now. The bad news is that properties that were assessed at lower values in the recent difficult economic years may be assessed differently this year – which may result in higher property tax. Are you left wondering any of the following questions: • How does an assessment affect my property tax? • The economy isn’t that great yet, so why would taxes go up now? • How can I appeal an assessed value? In an effort to provide a forum to educate Chamber members on the tax process, we hope you will attend the May Business Boosters Luncheon where you will hear from Charlie Reddoch, Henry
County’s Chief Appraiser in the Tax Assessor’s Office, and David Curry, Henry County Tax Commissioner. These tax experts will explain how properties are initially valued or assessed; how the property owner is apprised of the assessment; the appeal process; and how the assessment ultimately determines the tax amount for the property. The cost for this catered lunch is $12 for Chamber members who register and pay online or $15 at the door and $20 for non-members who register and pay online or $23 at the door. Reservations are required by May 13 for planning purposes and can be made and paid online at www.henrycounty.com. Go to the Events calendar, then the BBL for May 15. To cover catering costs, no-shows will be billed. Lunch will be catered by Gezzo’s Surf & Grille.
Farm House Catering prepared lunch
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Chamber Connection Visits On March 26, Chamber Ambassadors paid a call on the following members to say “Thank You” and to take a gift bag of goodies provided by fellow Chamber members. We appreciate and value the support of all members. You never know when they will drop in… Amber Chase Apartments
ers Courtesy Clean CorrectMed
Dimension One, Inc.
Hudson Bridge Animal Clinic Independence Plumbing Septic & Rotor, Inc
ire Kauffman T
Dottie WISE
Power Plus International, Inc.
Manor on Main Personal Care Home
Associate Broker dottie.wise@metrobrokers.com metrobrokers.com/dottie.wise 404.843.2500 Office 678-443-8407 Direct 404.683.0912 Mobile
Every LIFE has a story. Celebrate it!
Greg Cannon
METRO BROKERS 1401 Highway 20 West
RoLanka Internatio nal, Inc.
McDonough, GA 30253
770-914-1414
www.cannonclevelandfunerals.com
Seiler & Associates, Inc. Each Firm is independently Owned and Operated
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FINANCIAL FOCUS Turn Your Retirement “Vision” into Reality Retirement can be an exciting, active time of your life. But if you’re going to get the full benefits from your retirement years — which could last two, or even three, decades — you’ll need to have a vision for what you want to do. And to transform this vision into reality, you’ll need to take a “holistic” approach — one that involves a financial strategy, clear communications with family members and an awareness of the challenges that may stand in your way. To articulate and achieve your vision, ask yourself a series of questions, such as the following: What do I want to do? When you retire, do you plan on traveling around the world? Purchasing a vacation home? Pursuing your hobbies? Or maybe you’re even thinking of opening a small business. Clearly, you have many options — and you’ll need to be aware
that some choices are going to be more costly than others. If you can identify how you want to spend your retirement years and then put a “price tag” on your goal — or at least come up with a pretty good estimate of how much money you’ll need each year — you can then create an appropriate investment strategy. Such a strategy will include both your need for growth — during your preretirement and retirement years — and your need for income, especially during your retirement years. Your investment strategy will also need to be based on your risk tolerance, family situation and time horizon — how many years you have until your retirement. What “roadblocks” might I encounter? As you work to achieve your retirement vision, you may well encounter some “roadblocks” along the way. One significant roadblock is
the amount of health care expenses you might face during retirement. Many people think Medicare will cover everything, but that’s not the case — in fact, you could easily spend a few thousand dollars each year, out of pocket, for health care costs. And since these costs typically rise as you move further into retirement, you’ll need a reasonable portion of your assets to be allocated to investments with the potential for rising income. Even beyond normal health care costs, though, you’ll need to be aware that you could eventually need some type of long-term care, such as a stay in a nursing home or assistance from a home health aide. These costs can be enormous; to cope with them, you need to prepare well ahead of time, so you may want to consult with your financial advisor for possible solutions.
So Much Planning Goes into Retirement. Have You Thought About Taxes As Well?
It’s likely that your retirement income may come from many sources, such as Social Security, pension distributions, a 401(k) or IRA withdrawals. That’s why, if taxes are a concern for you, it’s important to choose the right investments for your portfolio. At Edward Jones, we have many options that can give you more control over your taxes, so you can enjoy what you’ve worked so hard to achieve. Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax advice.You should consult with a qualified tax specialist for professional advice on your specific situation.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
How can I protect my family? Your retirement vision can’t just involve yourself, or even just yourself and your spouse. To fully enjoy your retirement years, you’ll want to know that you are helping to protect your grown children from financial and emotional burdens that could fall on them should you become incapacitated in some way. Among the steps you might consider taking is establishing a durable power of attorney, which allows you to appoint an agent to manage your financial affairs, make health care decisions or conduct other business for you during your incapacitation. Consult with your legal advisor about creating a durable power of attorney. You will find that having your retirement vision come to fruition can be Establish a sound financial strategy and a great feeling. So, do whatever it takes to risk assessment and you won’t need a make it happen. crystal ball to plan your retirement.
Call today to see how our unique, faceto-face approach makes us best suited to help long-term investors meet their current needs and future financial goals.
Financial Advisor Lin Watts, AAMS® 305 Olde Towne Way McDonough, GA 30252 (678) 583-1325
Financial Advisor Financial Advisor John H. Dorminy IV, AAMS® Paul D. Rippa 190 Turner Street 2141 Highway 155 North McDonough, GA 30253 McDonough, GA 30252 (770) 957-0250 (678) 583-5090
Member SIPC
www.edwardjones.com
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WHEN IT’S URGENT CARE,
YOU CAN STILL GET
CHILDREN’S CARE. Minor illnesses and injuries can happen at any time. When they do, you don’t have to settle for anything less than our doctors and nurses, who are specially trained to care for your child. For Urgent Care Center wait times,* text CHOA to 4ER411 (437411) or visit choa.org/wait.
* Wait times are updated every 15 minutes and are estimates based on the average time it takes for a patient to be placed in an exam room. Standard messaging fees will apply for texting. ©2014 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All rights reserved.
CHILDREN’S AT HUDSON BRIDGE – 1510 HUDSON BRIDGE ROAD, STOCKBRIDGE
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Piedmont welcomes Radiation Oncology Services, Inc. to the Piedmont Cancer Network.
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• Inpatient and outpatient chemotherapy
better access to an expanded treatment network, including
• Imaging services
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• Clinical trials
Learn more at piedmontcancer.org © 2014 Piedmont Healthcare 03645-0414