henrycounty.com a henry county chamber of commerce publication
NOVEMBER 2013
YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS
Hampton • Locust Grove • McDonough • Stockbridge
in this issue Chairman’s Message 2 Business Profile 3 Calendar 4 Henry Happenings 5 Ribbon Cuttings 6 Leadership Henry 6 Youth Leadership Henry 7 Annual Meeting 10 Business After Hours 11 Business Boosters Luncheon 12 Annual Holiday Party 13 Chamber Briefs 14 Chamber Membership 14
Henry County Views Education As Serious “Business”
The genesis of the E2: Economics & Education initiative was the 2010 Henry County Intergovernmental Retreat, facilitated by the Henry County Chamber of Commerce. The Retreat focused on education and retreat attendees included representatives of our county’s civic, business, non-profit and economic development communities. The attendees worked collectively to identify the need to partner with our schools to better prepare the county’s workforce of tomorrow. Recognizing a strong correlation between education and earning power, it became apparent that Henry County could attract and retain large businesses and newer technologies, by utilizing education excellence to enhance Henry County’s economy. E2 was the first initiative of its kind not only in Henry County, but across much of the state as well. Over 100 dedicated and involved community leaders, co-chaired by Brian Preston and June Wood, participated in task forces and committees targeting five focus areas to achieve specific goals: • Increasing Henry County’s high school
Comfortably South of Atlanta E2 Kick-Off Meeting February 2011 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.
Did You Know... Chamber members receive complimentary issues of both Georgia Trend and Southern Journal magazines?
graduation rate; • Improving academic ranking among the top Georgia school systems; • Securing a technical college / Increasing dual enrollment; • Becoming a Work-Ready Certified Community; • Improving School Readiness In order to document progress, the Alliance first measured the current state of education in the county, establishing their baseline. Next, they set up work teams for each of the five target areas. These work teams met routinely over the next few months to reach a consensus on strategies and recommendations addressing each target area. They set measurable goals for each of the areas, and established a mechanism for comparing progress with those goals through 2021. Their recommendations and measures were finalized and published as an Action Plan for Education & Workforce Development in August 2011. Thanks in no small part to the attention generated by the E2 initiative, several of the goals and recommendations have become reality. Henry County secured a technical college presence with Southern Crescent Technical College opening the first building of a proposed eight building campus in early 2014. The Academy for Advanced Studies opened in 2012, offering Henry County students dual enrollment giving them the opportunity to earn college credit while completing their high school education – without paying tuition. The Academy
for Advanced Studies broke ground on an addition to its campus on September 30, 2013 and anticipates being Georgia’s largest career academy beginning with the Fall 2014 school year. These are just a few of the accomplishments. For a more in-depth status, see the“E2 Update: How We Compare in 2013”article on page 3. Today the Chamber-facilitated E2 initiative has transitioned to the Henry County E2 Alliance facilitated by the Henry County Schools Superintendent and comprised of members from: The Chamber’s Education Foundation; The Chamber’s Education Committee; Communities in Schools; Connecting Henry; The Academy for Advanced Studies; and Henry County Schools. This group now serves as a Steering Committee for continued progress of the remaining goals of the five focus areas. To learn more about this important project or to get involved, contact the Henry County Schools Superintendent at 770-957-6601 or the Henry County Chamber of Commerce at 770-957-5786.
E2 Alliance Meeting March 2013
Save the Date
3rd Annual Holiday Party See page 13.
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Chairman’s Message
Drive The Engine Forward! No Room For Reverse On Education! Eddie Ausband
From what they tell me, I could see. I could smell. I could feel. I could taste. I could hear. That’s about where the end of “could” stopped and “couldn’t” began. I couldn’t read. I couldn’t write. I couldn’t do math. I couldn’t reason. I couldn’t possibly know what was right and what was wrong. So how did I -- and we -- come from justborn, sensing babies to fully-functioning, thinking adults to successful businesswomen and businessmen who drive our local, state and national economies? The answer is simple: a quality education. Many of us were very fortunate to have a nurturing home environment and parents who embraced and valued a formal education. A lot of our early learning came directly from our caregivers themselves. But then, we entered school and a whole new chapter began. Interspersed with the reading and spelling drills, the multiplication tables memorization and the history we absorbed were important times of learning social skills and the ability to get along with our classmates. We’ve all had friends along the way who have insisted that they wouldn’t let school get in the way of their definition of “education.” That may be considered an extreme viewpoint by some, but there’s a bit of truth in there somewhere. Fortunately, in Henry County, our dedicated teachers and school administrators have found
a good balance between knowledge and life skills in helping shape the total student, and by extension, contributing members of our society. I can’t tell you how many times -- first as a student, and later as a parent -- that I have been influenced or molded by caring teachers who go far beyond their job descriptions to make education everything it can be. But it goes beyond helping to make us knowledgeable students and “good people.” The dedication and ability of our educators is the primary driver of the economic engine that Henry County has become. What company would dare set up shop in a place where there wasn’t an educated pool of talent that it could further train to become valued employees? It’s not a stretch to say that no company would risk such a move. So, as business leaders, we must continue to embrace and expand upon what we have here in terms of educational opportunities
for both our young students as well as continuing education for adults. We must continue to push for a legislative agenda that supports Henry County’s drive to build an educated workforce that any company would be pleased to hire. In both public education and private institutions, we have a strong foundation upon which to build. We can’t afford to let other priorities take away from what I consider the single-most important ingredient to a vibrant and economically strong community -- quality education at all levels. As we enter the Thanksgiving season, let’s take some time to reach out to educators who have been a positive influence on us and our families and thank them for their service. It’s the least we can do to keep a good thing going forward in Henry County. Happy Thanksgiving!
Eddie Ausband is President of The Ausband Agency, Inc. / Nationwide Insurance and CEO of Revanta Financial Group, LLC.
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Business Profile
L & M Business Forms and Promotional Products About the Company L & M Business Forms and Promotional Products was established in Henry County in 1990 by Kelly Lee, and his father-inlaw, L.P. McKibben. The business was originally located in what is now the BB&T Bank Building (formerly known as the Spratlin Building) in McDonough. Today the business stands at 40 North Zack Hinton Parkway in McDonough. A family-owned and operated business, the company has four full-time employees. Kelly’s wife, Kathi McKibben Lee, handles the office and son, Kel Lee is in charge of operations. Before starting L&M, Kelly was a salesman for a large paper corporation whose customers were constantly asking if he could supply specific types of printed promotional products for them. Because of his company’s limitation on the types and quantities of products he could supply, Kelly, along with L.P., took the leap to establish a business that would enable Kelly to better meet the specific needs of customers. L&M is actually three different companies in one, all working to supply products and services to help client businesses achieve their goals. First, they are a printing company with the ability to meet all their clients’ printing needs. They print all types of business products such
as forms, invoices, statements, custom flyers, envelopes, letterhead, business cards, books, postcards and several other types of materials. They offer printing from one color to a full four-color process. Second, as a member of Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI), the promotion products information center of the U.S., L&M also offers a wide range of promotional products for customers. Their membership in ASI enables L&M to access thousands of manufacturers of promotional business products, allowing them to get their customers the best quality and best prices for their advertising dollars. L&M’s third line of business is that as a flag and flagpole supplier. They offer the highest quality flags, all produced in the U.S. They stock U.S., Georgia, military, Christian, college and other types of flags. They can easily provide world and other U.S. state flags as well. If you need a flag of any type, they will get it for you. They have both indoor and outdoor flagpoles ranging from six feet to 80 feet. Community Support L&M believes in being involved in the community where they do business. They participate in the following ways: as a Partner in Education with McDonough Elementary School; as a
E Status Report 2
As outlined in the original E2 Action Plan, task force teams are addressing key goals for improving education and workforce development in Henry County. The following is a status report of strategies and actions occurring in 2013. E2 Goal: Increase the Graduation Rate Graduation Coach Program: One E2 strategy for improving the graduation rate is to support the work of middle school graduation coaches. Graduation coaches play a significant role in identifying students who exhibit characteristics which put them at risk for graduation. Communities in Schools of Henry County has partnered with Henry County Schools to support the work of middle school graduation coaches by leveraging community-based resources to assist atrisk students. For example, students who
are affected by homelessness or require assistance with needs such as eye and dental care, school supplies, and academic tutoring have been helped through the CIS model of surrounding students with a community of support. Roadmap to Graduation: An E2 task force led the development of the “Roadmap to Graduation.” The purpose of the roadmap is to provide a comprehensive, engaging, and userfriendly source of information to help guide students and parents by identifying key opportunities and responsibilities at each grade level leading to graduation. The web-based roadmap is now active on the Henry County Schools website, and work continues for building out the many links to student and parent resources. The Roadmap to Graduation is available at www.henry.k12.ga.us.
Volunteer In Tutoring with McDonough Elementary; as an Ambassador for Henry County Schools’ Summer Programs; by supporting Boy Scouts of America and by participating in and supporting the McDonough Lions Club. Chamber Involvement L&M is a long-term member of The Henry County Chamber of Commerce. According to Mr. Lee, “in belonging to the Chamber and participating in Chamber luncheons we gained new customers through the ability to meet them in a relaxed and business-friendly atmosphere. We have received many referrals from the Chamber staff, leading to new customers for us. In addition, the Chamber’s involvement with the Board of Commissioners and the Board of Education and other government agencies benefits not only L&M, but other businesses as well. I would recommend Chamber membership to other businesses
Mentoring: Another E2 strategy for improving the graduation rate is expanding mentoring opportunities for students. An E2 Mentoring Committee is in the information-gathering stage to understand current mentoring practices and needs among schools. The committee is working to identify community organizations that provide mentoringrelated services, to establish a baseline of the current number of students served and the number of active mentors, to provide schools with helpful resources, and to help schools recruit mentors. The work of this committee will be on-going. Parent Engagement: A Parent Engagement Committee was formed at the end of the 2012-13 school year. This committee is researching strategies for inspiring parents to become highly engaged with schools, teachers, and student learning. At this time, the committee needs additional members to help develop initiatives which promote meaningful parent involvement at elementary, middle,
because the Chamber provides an easy way to network and to promote your company.” For more information about L&M Business Forms and Promotional Products: (770) 954-0685 Email: sales@ LMBusinessForms.com
and high school levels and that improve student outcomes. E2 Goal: Improve Academic Rank Efforts to improve the academic ranking of the school system have focused on expanding community-based summer learning and afterschool learning opportunities. Summer Learning: To promote continued learning throughout the summer months and help improve literacy for students across Henry County, the E2 Summer Learning Committee paired the county’s parks and recreation department with the county’s public libraries to develop a program called “Library Goes to Camp.” In 2013 the library provided books and resource kits for use by more than 1,600 elementary and middle school students participating in summer camp activities offered by the parks and recreation department. Students were eager to delve into the new reading materials provided weekly throughout the summer, and
students who achieved reading goals were rewarded with books of their own. Afterschool Learning: The E2 Afterschool Learning Committee facilitated a partnership between the University of Georgia-Griffin campus and Stockbridge Middle School to create a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) focused afterschool program known as Kids Enrichment University. The program will kick-off in January 2014 and will operate one day per week for an 18-week period. Plans are to expand this program and to create other afterschool learning opportunities for all middle schools in Henry County. E2 Goal: Develop A Technical College Campus Henry Campus of Southern Crescent Technical College: The momentum generated by the E2 Alliance resulted in the decision to locate a campus of Southern Crescent Technical College (SCTC) in McDonough, GA. The campus is to be located on 25 acres of land donated
by the Henry County Board of Education. Building one of a proposed eight building campus is under construction and will be open for student instruction in 2014. In addition, the political leadership of Henry County has continued in its support of this facility by allocating in excess of $6 million of the proceeds from a proposed SPLOST as a county contribution to facilitate the funding of the second building. SCTC has become a great partner in education to Henry County and has committed to offering those courses of instruction best designed to ensure that the future workforce of Henry County is well trained and prepared to meet the needs of any future employer. E2 Goal: Increase Dual Enrollment and Strengthen Workforce Development Academy for Advanced Studies: A key strategy for advancing workforce development in Henry County is the Academy for Advanced Studies (AAS), a college and career academy located
Continued on page 11.
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NOVEMBER 2013 Sunday
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8 AM Youth Leadership Henry BOD, BR
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8 AM Education Foundation, BR
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20 7:30 AM HCCC BOD, BR Noon, Ambassadors Luncheon
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10 AM Small Business Council, BR 11 AM Business Boosters Luncheon, HR
Chamber Closed
Happy Thanksgiving Chamber Closed Chamber Staff David Gill, President & CEO Laura Luker, Director of Tourism Diane Ide, Director of Communications Gary Sparrow, Membership Director Phyllis Reeves, Information Specialist 2013 Board of Directors Executive Committee Eddie Ausband, Chairman, The Ausband Agency, Inc. Charlie Scott, Chair-Elect, Piedmont Henry Leonard Moreland, Secretary/Treasurer, Heritage Bank Danny Brown, Immediate Past Chair, SERVPRO® of Henry, Spalding & Clayton Counties & Decatur Brad Thomas, Vice Chair for Economic & Cultural Development, Snapping Shoals EMC
William Strickland, Vice Chair for Chamber Development, Bellamy-Strickland Chevrolet June Wood, Vice Chair for Government & Education, Georgia Power Jeff Mills, CVB Chair David Gill, HCCC President & CEO CLASS OF 2013 Eddie Ausband, The Ausband Agency Steve Nail, Nail Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Shane Persaud, Building Design Partnership, LLC Jake Carter, Southern Belle Farm Denise Sowell, Capitol Street Financial Services CLASS OF 2014 James Chafin, Henry County State Court Lisa Kinchen, Southern Journal Magazine Leonard Moreland, Heritage Bank
David Pittman, Bennett International Group William Strickland, Bellamy-Strickland Chevrolet Brad Thomas, Snapping Shoals EMC CLASS OF 2015 Herschel Arant, Central Georgia EMC John Newman, Classic Landscapes, Inc. Laura Turner, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta June Wood, Georgia Power Greg Hammonds, Whaley Hammonds Tomasello Monty Ray, Briggs & Stratton Ex Officio Members Chairman Tommy Smith, HC Board of Commissioners Mayor Chris Moore, City of Hampton Mayor Robert Price, City of Locust Grove Mayor Billy Copeland, City of McDonough Mayor Mark Alarcon, City of Stockbridge Ethan Hildreth, Superintendent, Henry County Schools
Charlie Scott, CEO, Piedmont Henry Bill Herndon, Chairman, Henry County Development Authority Roderick Burch, Henry County Water Authority Mary Battle, Leadership Henry Jonathan Hinton, Chair Appointee Gerald Hudgins, Chair Appointee Nick Williams, Chair Appointee
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Comfortably South of Atlanta Atlanta Campaign Reenactment November 2-3 – 9:00 a.m. Nash Farm Park
(855) 22-RUSTY.
Richard Petty Driving Experience Visit the Sutlers, participate in November 8-9
period activities and witness the For more information www. reenactment of battles each day. drivepetty.com or call 1 (800) BE-PETTY. Legends Off-Season Race November 1 Atlanta Motor Speedway
Veterans Day 5K November 9 - 9:00 a.m. Legends and Bandolero racing Ola High School
returns to Atlanta Motor Speedway in the fall with offseason racing as NASCAR’s stars of tomorrow prepare for the summer Thursday Thunder series. Kids ages six to 11 are admitted for just $5 while adults pay only $12; admission is free for children ages five and younger. Visit www. atlantamotorspeedway.com for more information or call (770) 946-4211.
Benefiting Ola High School Air Force J.R.O.T.C. Program. More information at www.getsetgrow.com. Cory White Chili Cookoff November 9 JailHouse Brewing Company
it’s happening in Henry More! McDonough Arts events are family friendly, FREE, and so much fun! Visit website for complete details: www. mcdonougharts.net Veterans Day Activities November 11- 11:00 a.m. Heritage Park
A Veterans Day Ceremony will be hosted at the Veterans Wall of Honor at Heritage Park on Monday, November 11by American Legion Post 55 of McDonough. Tommy Clack, Captain, US Army, Viet Nam triple amputee will be the guest speaker. There will be music provided by Strong Rock Christian School. On Saturday and Sunday preceding Veterans Day a WWII reenactment group called “Kelly’s Zeros,” will set up a complete WWII Army field camp where they will live for the weekend. There will also be a special display called “The Homefront” depicting what it was like in the states when the men were off to war. A military art Sale will be held at the museum. The museum will be open extended hours: Saturday and Sunday 8AM to 6PM both and 10AM to 3PM on Monday.
14 Teams will pair off against each other to cook up the best pot o’chili they can muster up. Local chefs will be on hand to judge who came out on top. There will also be an open category and the winner will be selected by attendees votes. Southern Belle Farm It’s $30 to compete and $10 Final Weekend November 3-4 to hang out enjoy the music, Sat. 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. & beer and sample the chili. Sun. 1:00 – 6:00 p.m. More information at www. Southern Belle Farm Ladies Night Out Families can enjoy cornfield jailhousebrewing.com. November 14 – 6:00 p.m. – mazes, a hayride, cow train 7th Annual Holiday 9:00 p.m. ride, corn cannon and a huge Festival of Arts McDonough Square jumping pillow. The fun doesn’t November 10 McDonough Merchants on stop there! Racing pedal carts, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. the historic downtown square a giant tunnel slide, Kiddie McDonough Square welcome you and all of your Korral, corn box, duck races, Holiday Festival of Arts is THE girlfriends for a night out on place for affordable, handmade, and pig races can all be found unique products that range from the town to receive prizes, at this fun farm. jewelry to paintings to wearable discounts, and more! For art in downtown McDonough. complete details, contact Rusty Wallace Racing Do you have the best pound 770.898.9311. Experience cake in the South? Be sure to November 2-3 enter the Tastiest Pound Cake NASCAR Racing Experience Atlanta Motor Speedway 15-16 For more information visit Contest! Artist Market, Live November Atlanta Motor Speedway www.racewithrusty.com or call Music, Home Baked Goodies & For more information www.
nascarracingexperience.com or Cut Your Own Christmas Tree & Tour call (877) RACE-LAP. Gift of Lights November 22 – January 3 Atlanta Motor Speedway
Celebrate the holiday season as Atlanta Motor Speedway turns into one of the area’s biggest drive-through Christmas light parks! NEW for this year, the route will take visitors on a portion of the famed 1.54 mile track. For more information visit www.atlantagiftoflights. com. • December 2-5: 11Alive Cana-Thon week. Bring a nonperishable food item for a discount upon entry benefiting the 11Alive food drive. • December 9-12: Winter Coat & Blanket week. Bring a gently used or new blanket or winter coat for a discount upon entry. • December 16-19: Toys for Tots Donation week. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for a discount upon entry.
Open Daily beginning November 22 9:00 a.m. – Dark Yule Forest Hwy. 155
Families can make holiday memories as they choose and cut their own tree, and pick out live wreaths and garland while enjoying free apple cider and candy canes. Hayrides and Christmas tours are available on the weekends. Farm tours are also available weekday mornings from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. For more information visit www.aboutyule.com.
Photos with Santa November 30 – December 23 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Outlet When some think about an Tanger (Commons Area between old-fashioned Christmas -- Hanesbrand & Old Navy)
Funk-N-Run • November 30 Atlanta Motor Speedway
The Funk-n-family friendly 5K is not timed, not competitive but it’s all fun! It’s to get everyone out of their funks, off their duffs and get movin’! For more information, visit www. funknrun.com.
Listen to the Mackie Creek Band play your favorite Christmas tunes as Santa arrives for the lighting of the Tree at the Municipal Complex grounds. Bring your camera to take pictures of you little ones with Santa! After Thanksgiving Lighting of the Christmas Tree Thanksgiving evening 7:00 p.m. • Hampton Depot
season’s biggest savings at Tanger Outlets! At 10:00pm on Thanksgiving night, Thursday, November 28th, Tanger will kick off the holiday shopping season with its annual Moonlight Madness Sale event. Find exclusive, After Thanksgiving deals starting at 10:00pm and continuing throughout the entire weekend, November 28-December 1. Find plenty of bonus outlet savings and download the special offers available all AfterThanksgiving Weekend long on www.tangeroutlet.com.
Old Fashioned Christmas November 29 - December 15 Southern Belle Farm
they think about traditions, including decorating a Christmas tree, sipping hot apple cider and listening to Christmas carols. Bring the whole family for a fun time Turkey Day 5K on the farm this winter. Enjoy November 28 – 8:00 a.m. hot apple cider, home-baked Academy Sports, goodies, and take home a preMcDonough, GA This event is benefiting Prevent cut Christmas tree to start the Child Abuse Henry County and holiday decorating! Check our Kim Krumm Kidney Kampaign. website for hours and details www.SouthernBelleFarm.com. Lighting of the Tree Thanksgiving Night – 6:00 p.m. Locust Grove Municipal Complex Grounds
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Moonlight Sale Thanksgiving Night 10:00 p.m. • Tanger Outlets
As soon as the Thanksgiving The program begins at 7 meal is finished, it is time to pm. at the Hampton Depot. get ready for some serious Complimentary refreshments. outlet shopping fun and the
Here comes Santa Claus, Here comes Santa Claus right down Tanger Lane!! You don’t want to miss your opportunity to have professional pictures made with Santa this year. Prices are reasonable and the setting is charming. Plan now to bring your child for those memorable Santa photos! Santa Arrives on November 30th, the Saturday after Thanksgiving! Santa will be available: Sat, Nov__________ 30th - Sun, Dec 1st; Thur, Dec 5th - Sun, Dec 8th __________ Fri, Dec 12th every day through Dec 23rd __________ **Saturday, Dec 21st, special extended hours from 10 am until 6 pm
Mark Your Calendar
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September 12 Providence Hospice
September 17 Vitas Innovative Hospice Care
100 Corporate Center Dr Stockbridge, GA 30281 Contact: Jim Ledet (678) 284-9385 providencehospicega.com
931 Rock Quarry Road Stockbridge, GA 30281 Contact: Stuart Sons (404) 272-8723 www.vitas.com
September 24 Brasch Insurance Associates, Inc. Josh Cavallin
October 2 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Hudson Bridge Sports Medicine
1920 Monroe Dr. NE, Ste. 100 Atlanta, GA 30324 Contact: Josh Cavallin (678) 221-8362 www.braschins.com
1510 Hudson Bridge Road Stockbridge, GA 30281 Contact: Laura Turner ((404) 785-8660 www.choa.org
Leadership Henry Class of 2014 is Off and Running! September was a busy month for the 2014 Leadership Henry. The class spent a day and a half at Camp Calvin for the class retreat and quickly became acquainted with their fellow class members through ice breakers and team building exercises.
The class was motivated, inspired and encouraged from many talented speakers which included Paula Semple, Jeff Cooper, Denese Rodgers, Mary Beth Etheridge Corbin, and Al Hosford. The retreat concluded with the class
participating in a challenge course. The following week the class participated in Public Safety day. The Henry County Fire Department along with the Henry County Police Department gave an overview of their procedures and
equipment and provided a demonstration of the K-9 unit. The day’s program included a tour of the Emergency Center Operations. Sheriff Keith McBrayer concluded the day with a tour of the Henry County Jail.
IF YOU WANT TO KNOW WHO’S ACCOUNTABLE, JUST READ THE NAME ON THE DOOR. “For 40 years, Strawn & Co., Insurance has operated under the vision and values set by my father. He held himself directly accountable for the success of his clients, valuing relationships much more than transactions. I saw his integrity in action, sometimes at the expense of the company - but always what he thought was right. He built his name upon the respect and honesty of these long-term partnerships. And as a Strawn, I couldn’t work any other way.” - Rusty Strawn, President
PROUDLY OFFERING PERSONAL, BUSINESS & HEALTH INSURANCE As an independent insurance agency, Strawn & Co., Insurance is free to focus on what really counts: providing your family and/ or business with the most comprehensive coverages and competitive premiums available. This type of focus for our customers has kept Strawn & Co., Insurance one of the leading providers of property, casualty, life & health insurance in south Atlanta.
Call or Come in Today! 16 Hampton Street McDonough, GA 30253
770-957-9005
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Youth Leadership Henry
Angie Combs (left) receives plaque recognizing her 15 years of service on the Youth Leadership Henry (YLH) Board of Directors from YLH founder, Susan Howington.
The top three financial mistakes of a small business startup By Alisa Kirk Many entrepreneurs start their businesses with detailed plans on how they’re going to start, manage, and operate their business. Some even have detailed financial projections on how they’re going to make and spend their money. As consultants helping small business owners to start and grow their businesses, we see many successes but also some failures. We’ve noticed three common mistakes that can make or break a business in its first year. Underestimating the amount of startup capital needed. Just like estimating costs when you remodel a house, my rule of
thumb is to estimate the amount of startup capital you will need and double it. While loans for startups are available, it’s harder to get a loan when you’ve already started and run out of cash. By then, you may be showing a loss on the books which a lender will have to take into account when you apply for a loan. It’s possible that you forgot certain expenses or contingencies when you estimated the amount you’d need to start, and an emergency fund is essential. Not paying yourself. Believe it or not, many business owners have detailed projections covering every possible expense except their own salary. Some say they won’t need to take a salary until they’re established, but two years later they’re still unable to pay themselves. Make sure you figure the amount you’ll need personally when you calculate expenses.
Unrealistic revenue projections. Remember that when you open on Day One, you won’t have an established customer base. It may take months before you’re fully operational with anticipated sales. Even then, some business owners have expectations that are too rosy. Base your revenue projections on research, including first-hand research, into the customers in your area and the experience of other business owners. Never base it totally on the target market population or drive-by statistics. I always advise potential business owners to figure two sets of financial projections: what they expect to happen, and a worstcase projection considering what could happen. You can expect the first, but plan for the second. If you can break even then, you will be prepared for most eventualities. As always, call us at the SBDC at 678.466.5100 if you need assistance.
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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! OF CLAYTON COUNTY OF DECATUR OF HENRY & SPALDING COUNTIES
Ethan Hildreth Superintendent
FIRE & WATER- CLEANUP & RESTORATION 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE
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 Chamber of Commerce Convention & Visitors Bureau 1709 Highway 20 West Westridge Business Center McDonough, GA 30253
770-957-5786
22 N. Zack Hinton Parkway McDonough, Georgia 30253
General Manager McDonough
McDonough 865 Hwy.20/81 West 865 Hwy.20/81 West McDonough, GA 30253
McDonough, GA 30253
770-898-1988 770-898-1988
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
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770-288-3500
City of Stockbridge
Eddie Ausband, CFP 8 Macon Street McDonough, GA 30253 770.389.9060 x102 eausband@revanta.com
Every LIFE has a story. Celebrate it!
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Chamber’s 13th Annual Golf Classic A Success September 30 was a truly splendid day for golf and being outdoors as 124 golfers took to the links for the Chamber’s 13th Annual Golf Classic at Canongate’s beautiful Heron Bay Golf Course. First place winners were the members of The Rehorn Professional Group’s team. Second place went to United Community Bank. Third place went to the Wells Fargo team. Winners of the putting green contest were: first place – Brandon Stooksbury; 2nd place – Mike Petroff; and 3rd place – Blake Vance. Special thanks go to Piedmont Henry as presenting sponsor and to Outback Steakhouse and Chick-fil-A for food during and after the event. Thanks to all the sponsors who made the Golf Classic a success.
Presenting Sponsor Piedmont Henry
Save the Date For the Chamber’s 47th Annual Meeting/Dinner Presenting Sponsor
Flag Sponsor United Community Bank
February 1, 2013 at 7:00 PM Eagle’s Landing Country Club Gold Sponsors Georgia Power, Gas South, Bennett Intl., Smith, Welch Webb & White, PVH, Outback Steakhouse
Mark your calendars now for the premier Chamber event of the year – our annual meeting/dinner. Tickets are now on sale for $125 per person and tables of ten can be accommodated. Ticket order forms are available at www.henrycounty.com. In the “Member Center” box, select “Annual Banquet”.
Now Accepting Nominations for 2013 Award Winners!
Bronze Sponsors Children’s Healthcare, Wells Fargo, Fidelity Bank, PNC Bank
1st place – The Rehorn Professional Group
Dottie WISE
Each year the Chamber recognizes excellence by presenting awards to leaders chosen for their exemplary leadership and dedication to improving our community. Nominations are now open for the following 2013 Chamber leadership awards: Business of the Year – a business that stands out due to business practices and community involvement. The Billy Carter Public Service Award – an elected or appointed official or an individual employed in a public position who has gone above and beyond official duties in service to the community. Volunteer of the Year – an outstanding individual who has given significantly of his/her time and expertise to the Chamber. The Citizen of the Year – an individual who has given multiple years of unselfish service to Henry County, going above and beyond in their profession, business, service or enterprise. Nomination criteria, forms and a list of past winners are available online at www.henrycounty. com. From the home page, select “Member Center” and “Annual Banquet.” Nominations are due to the Chamber by December 31, 2013.
Winners will be announced at the Chamber’s 47th Annual Meeting/Dinner. Ticket requests and nominations can be faxed to Diane Ide at 770-957-8030, emailed to dide@ henrycounty.com or mailed via U.S. Postal Service to Henry County Chamber of Commerce, Attn: Diane Ide, 1709 Hwy 20 West, McDonough, GA 30253.
Herschel Arant (Volunteer of the Year Award)
Associate Broker dottie.wise@metrobrokers.com metrobrokers.com/dottie.wise 404.843.2500 Office 678-443-8407 Direct 404.683.0912 Mobile METRO BROKERS 1401 Highway 20 West McDonough, GA 30253
2nd Place – United Community Bank
BELLAMY-STRICKLAND Chevrolet • Buick • Pontiac • GMC Trucks BELLAMY STRICKLAND
I-75 . 155 Hwy McDonough
Each Firm is independently Owned and Operated
3rd Place – Wells Fargo Team
I-75 • Exit 216 145 Industrial Blvd. McDonough, GA
770 -954-3000
2012 Winners L-R: HCCC Board of Directors Chairman, Eddie Ausband; McDonough Mayor Billy Copeland (Billy Carter Public Service Award); Shane and Stacey Thompson, Owners of Shane’s Original Rib Shack (Business of the Year); J.T. Williams (Citizen of the Year Award); Danny Brown, HCCC Past Chair
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business
“September’s Business After Hours was a “JOY” Indeed!
AFTER HOURS
The JOY FM, 93.3 hosted a wonderful Chamber Business After Hours at the beautiful Heron Bay Golf & Country Club on Thursday, September 26. Attendees learned about the station’s presence and participation in Henry County as well as marketing tips. Each participant received a gift courtesy of the station and numerous door prizes were won.
Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, there will be no Business After Hours in November. E2 Status Report ... Continued from page 3.
adjacent to the SCTC facility. AAS opened its doors to more than 650 students in August 2013. AAS provides students access to unique career/technical programs and dual enrollment courses. The E2 task force was instrumental in developing the AAS concept, in acquiring State Board of Education approval to operate AAS as a charter school, and in attaining a $3 million state grant for the construction of additional classroom and laboratory space to house programs such as automotive technology, construction, advanced manufacturing, metalwork, and other career-oriented programs. Going forward, there is a need to establish program advisory teams comprised of representatives from local industries, businesses, and government entities. Dual Enrollment: The focus of the E2 task force team for dual enrollment has been to promote the benefits of dual enrollment and to address barriers that limit participation. Dual enrollment means that high school students enroll in college courses where they receive
both high school and college credit. In the current semester, 163 students are in dual enrollment courses. The Academy for Advanced Studies offers a comprehensive set of dual enrollment courses through their partnerships with Clayton State University, Gordon College, and Southern Crescent Technical College. Henry County Schools provides bus service to transport students between each high school and AAS. The E2 task force developed high quality marketing materials and strategies for promoting dual enrollment. The advantages for students and their family are many. The student has the exposure to career fields before entering college, helping them to make wise choices and saving on college tuition, as well as receiving credit for college courses – without paying tuition. The AAS has been well received by students and families countywide, resulting in the need for expansion even, at this early juncture, to accommodate more participants and an expanded curriculum. E2 Goal: Improve School Readiness School Readiness: The
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School Readiness Task Force has been working on a strategy for ensuring that local early learning and childcare providers are implementing school readiness standards in their education programs. The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning has such a program, known as Quality Rated. Quality Rated assigns a quality rating to childcare providers that meet a set of defined standards over and above minimum State requirements. The task force team believes the Quality Rated program holds great promise. However, the current challenge is to motivate local childcare providers to participate in the program as participation is on a voluntary basis. The work of this committee is ongoing. Anyone interested in learning more about the E2 Alliance, or who wants to participate, can contact either the Office of the Henry County Schools Superintendent (770-957-6601)or the Henry County Chamber of Commerce (770-957-5786).
Steve Nail was the lucky winner of the grand prize of golf for four at any Canongate Golf Course courtesy of The JOY FM. The names called and people not present to win the Chamber’s $200 jackpot were: Chris Hidalgo; Dennis Fanning; and Lin Watts. Photos from the event are posted on the Chamber’s Facebook page.
Jerry Brannon and Ken Hammock with The JOY FM brought gifts for all
Several attendees took home door prizes
E 2 Alliance Work Team Members: Front row: June Wood, Daniela Marzahl, Joyce Rodgers, Denese Rodgers. 2nd row: Debra Howell, Rodney Christopher, Jeff Mills, Laura Turner, Shane Persaud, Herschel Arant, Tony Pickett. 3rd row: Dorothy Herzberg, Kimberly Jackson, Marlene McKee, Anthony Ford, Jessica Stormer, Scott Ross, Daryl Dotschay, Dr. Ethan Hildreth, Eddie Ausband, Charles Woodroof. Back row: John Fish, Kevin Smith, Danny Stone, Arley Lowe, Jay Dockweiler, Careshia Moore, Patty Brown, Susan Heredia, Rodney Bowler, Gabe Crerie, Mike Griffin, John Uesseler. Not Pictured: Greg Benton, Cheryl Carter, Eugene Edwards, Bob Kolar, James
Radford, Adam Stanfield, Taifa Butler, Jennifer Christman, Michael Harris, Karen Waldon, Debbie Towson, David Mann, Julie Griffin, Bob White, Dan DeWolf, Fred Auletta, Anita Richardson, Kevin Demmitt, Marshall Chambers, Tracy Lehrer, Jeff Benzon, Tommy Kennedy, Sharon Bonner, Brad Jester, Bill Walden, Bill Hagans, Leah Brown, Sharon Bonner, Erick Wantland, Maribeth Ledford, Susan Crumbley, Steve Hendrix, Jo Simon, Philip Mellor, Cathy Adams, Nathisha Evans, Beth Healy, Melissa Malcom, Lynda Smith, Dr. Natasha Griffin, Robin Jones, Dr. Sandra Moore, Donna Braddy, Julie Hoover-Ernst, Valerie Suessmith, Desmond Thornton, Randy Greene, Lisa Kinchen, Heather Anglyn, April Pair, Michelle Nunnally, Angel Rollins
Steve Nail with Nail Heating & Air took home the grand prize
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business
Boosters luncheon
November Business Boosters Luncheon Thanksgiving Lunch and “Show & Tell...”
September BBL: Learning About SPLOST IV Attendees of the September 19th Business Boosters Luncheon learned about the proposed Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) IV from Jeff Mills, who serves on the Henry County Committee for SPLOST IV. In his presentation, Mr. Mills explained the difference between a sales tax such as SPLOST IV and a property tax and how projects paid for with SPLOST IV funds will be fairly and equitably paid for by all residents and tourists/visitors who make purchases in Henry County rather
than just by property owners. “A sizeable portion of the funding is expected to be paid for by people outside Henry County” stated Andy Pippin. “They didn’t get to accomplish all the projects in SPLOST III because of the downturn in the economy, which meant less funding. Those projects will still need to get done with SPLOST IV” he said. Mr. Mills also outlined the projects identified by the county and cities and explained how the funding would be
distributed. SPLOST funds can only be used for capital improvements and that’s why so much of the dollars raised will get used for transportation projects,” advised Mr. Mills. “How do we influence others to support this important vote?” asked Steve Nail with Nail Heating and Air. “By understanding that this is not a new tax, but the continuation of an existing tax and that it’s up to each of us to be informed and to encourage others to get out and vote” responded Mr. Mills.
Henry County Chamber Hudgins Room November 21, 2013 • 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Jeff Mills presented facts about SPLOST IV and what it means to Henry County.
In last November’s BBL, Jennifer Vandalen from Lady Fencer got some chuckles with her Madonna inspired wire bra. As you celebrate a Thanksgiving feast with your Chamber family, let’s make it another fun, yet informative time together. Last year’s “Show & Tell” was so enjoyable and revealed so much about our members, that we are going to do it again -- if you missed last year, you will want to be present this time! When you network, do you simply shake hands and give someone your business card, hoping that they will remember enough about you to think of you when they need someone offering your products or services? Would you like to be more memorable? Well, here’s how you can be the first to come to their mind. Plan to bring one item with you to the BBL on November 21st that symbolizes, or relates in a unique way to, you or your business. They may not remember what your business card looked
like, but chances are good they will remember the object associated with you -- especially if it is a “memorable” one! Everyone remembers the barbed wire bra worn by Jennifer Vandalen with Lady Fencer last year! See just how clever you can make your item to ensure it’s one that will trigger the association to you or your business. The cost for this catered lunch is $12 for Chamber members who register and pay online or $15 at the door and $20 for non-members who register and pay online or $23 at the door. Reservations are required for planning purposes and reservations can be made and paid online at www.henrycounty. com. Go to the Events calendar, then the BBL for November 21. To cover catering costs, no-shows will be billed.
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Chamber’s rd Annual Holiday Party
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Thursday, December 5 • 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Sponsored by: Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites - Stockbridge 638 Highway 138 West • Stockbridge, GA 30281
r Member, od fun. Dear Chambe cheer and go es sure h it w on as priz ay se ent and door n this holid Let’s begi r great food, entertainm s fo Please join u e holiday spirit. Hotel & th in u yo t Holiday Inn ssible. ge e to th at s d n frie ing po ird year, our n-filled even For the th ridge are making this fu derful backdrop for on kb Suites – Stoc and festive hotel is a w otel’s restaurant, On l eh fu ti Th . au ts be en is ev l Th ia is available. ies and spec d a cash bar holiday part ides culinary delights an tire – we r holiday at Inn & ea the Roxx, prov w or k or iday om w you come fr ink of the Hol Whether seeing you. Be sure to th pany’s holiday party! to m look forward ridge as you plan your co please kb oc St – es required – so g the it is Su P SV R llin es, an P today by ca ning purpos For plan your calendar and RSV r prizes for the event, to oo add the date 0.957.5786. To provide d for the Grinch to hand ” 77 ts n at r se re be “p am of rinch. Ch ave lots h ’s et n with the G L ke e. n ta ia o ot ph r u ask for D yo sure to have out – and be the Chamber! olidays” from H py ap “H
se a Ple VP RS
CEO Sincerely, l, President & David H. Gil Chamber of Commerce ty Henry Coun
Door Prizes are Needed! Promote your business – Donate a Door Prize! To donate a gift valued at $20 or more, contact Diane Ide at dide@henrycounty.com or call Diane at 770.957.5786. Event Sponsor: Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites – Stockbridge
RSVP Today!
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SCORE Class Offerings for November The Henry County Chamber, as well as many other Georgia Chambers, provide office space for SCORE to hold counseling sessions. SCORE, formerly the Service Core of Retired Executives, is affiliated with the Small Business Administration and is made up solely of volunteers who mentor small businesses. The two main types of SCORE programs are “one-on-one” mentoring and workshops that are held primarily at the SBA offices at 233 Peachtree Street, Atlanta. Some courses are free; others cost $50. Below is a listing of courses for November. You can register for mentoring or courses at www.atlanta.score.org. SimpleSTEPS to Start a Business – Module - 4 (Financial) Friday November 1, 2013 from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM EDT The SCORE SimpleSTEPS Series provides five, three-hour workshops with action steps: * Start-up Basics * Business Concept * Marketing Plan * Financial Projections * Funding Sources and Next Steps SBA Georgia District Office Become a Tech Savvy Small Business Owner Monday November 4, 2013 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM EST Learn the importance of a web presence for your small business. Discuss internet strategies, key elements of effective web design and development, and how to measure results. This class will address marketing online, attracting people to your website, and turning visits into sales. Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce SimpleSTEPS to Start a Business - Module 1 (Free) Tuesday November 5, 2013 from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM EST Module 1: Start-up Basics (FREE) This introductory workshop focuses on the basics of testing your business idea and identifying the key factors that influence start-up
Commerce at 240 Interstate North Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30339. Participants will learn the key components that provide the basis for an effective and meaningful business plan. This SimpleSTEPS to plan is a condensed version of a Start a Business -- Module-5 (Funding) more traditional business plan, Friday November 8, 2013 from which provides more details. Cobb County 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM EST Chamber of Commerce The SCORE SimpleSTEPS Series provides five, three-hour workshops SimpleSTEPS to with action steps: * Start-up Basics * Business Concept * Marketing Plan Start a Business -- Modules 2 of 5 * Financial Projections * Funding Friday November 15, 2013 from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM EST Sources and Next Steps The SCORE SimpleSTEPS Series SBA Georgia District Office provides five, three-hour workshops with action steps: * Start-up Basics Legal Issues (PREREQUISITE for Modules 2-5) for a Small Business Tuesday November 12, 2013 from * Business Concept * Marketing Plan * Financial Projections * Funding Sources 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM EST Want to save $50,000? Want to and Next Steps SBA Georgia District Office save 30 hours per month? Then, avoid unnecessary litigation. If you SimpleSTEPS to have a great idea for a business, it is imperative that you educate Start a Business - Module 1 (Free) yourself about the laws effecting Tuesday November 19, 2013 from that business or industry. Otherwise, 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM EST you might find yourself in a costly Module 1: Start-up Basics (FREE) This introductory workshop focuses lawsuit. on the basics of testing your SBA Georgia District Office business idea and identifying the Become a Tech Savvy key factors that influence start-up Small Business Owner success. Start-up Basics provides Wednesday November 13, 2013 you with an overview of the skills from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM EST and tools you need when deciding Learn the importance of a web to start a business. SBA Georgia District Office presence for your small business. Discuss internet strategies, key Develop an elements of effective web design Import / Export Business and development, and how to measure results. We will address Friday November 22, 2013 from marketing online, attracting people 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM EST to your website, and turning visits Small businesses looking to increase sales and profit, reduce into sales. 11605 Haynes Bridge Rd, Alpharetta dependence on the domestic market Greater North Fulton and stabilize seasonal fluctuations Chamber of Commerce should consider importing and exporting. With nearly 96 percent Mini Business Plan @ Cobb of consumers living outside the Chamber (Free) U.S. and two-thirds of the world’s Friday November 15, 2013 from purchasing power in foreign 9:15 AM to 11:30 AM EST countries, opportunities await U.S. This 2-hour workshop is small business. held at the Cobb Chamber of SBA Georgia District Office success. Start-up Basics provides you with an overview of the skills and tools you need when deciding to start a business. SBA Georgia District Office
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October Chamber Briefs ... Congratulations to: Bill Blasingame, Sr., Technical Advisor for Blasingame Pest Management, was recently named as one of the 80 most influential people in the pest management industry by Pest Management Professional magazine. In addition, Bill is also a member of the Pest Control Hall of Fame class of 2011.
McDonough Arts for awarding a $4,000 grant to Dr. Ethan Hildreth, Superintendent of Henry County Schools and to Dr. Kent Morrow, Fine Arts and ESOL Coordinator at a ceremony on October 2, 2013 at the Winsor Gallery in McDonough to be used for the arts program.
Jennifer Nelson – Teacher of the Year Finalist – Hickory Flat Charter Elementary
Joseph Hawkins – Teacher of the Year Finalist – Stockbridge Middle School
CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP Welcome to our NEW Members
Garth Potter – 2013 Teacher of the Year Winner – Union Grove High School
Ackerman Security Systems on presenting a $5,000 donation to Children’s Wish Foundation resulting from their recent Ackerman Security Systems Charity Golf Tournament and for the many charitable organizations they assist. A Friend’s House on celebrating 15 years on October 22 of dedicated service to 1,800 children in need in Henry County.
Safeguard Security Solutions LLC Michael Randall 115 Southgate Blvd McDonough, GA 30253
Gordon State College Ric Calhoun 419 College Drive Barnesville, GA 30204
Wireless Communications Al Majolagbe 1557 Hwy 20 South McDonough, GA 30253
Encompass Group, LLC Sue Walters 621 Macon Street McDonough, GA 30253
Toni Davis 126 Brenleigh Park Dr. Stockbridge, GA 30281
Verizon Cathy Carollo 1425 Hwy 34 E. Newnan, GA 30265
Autumn Leaves of Stockbridge Sarah Chidalek 545 East John Carpenter Fwy Irving, TX 75062
Oliver K. Fretz Ken Fretz P. O. Box 743 Jackson , GA 30233
CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP
To our RENEWING Members A Scarlet Thread, LLC ABC Montessori School Atlanta Regional Commission Carlisle Transportation Products City Electric Supply CorrectMed Courtesy Cleaners Edward Jones - Vanessa Conwell Fancy That Fine Jewelry Freight R Us LLC Georgia Crown Distributing Co. Henry Arts Alliance Henry County School System Henry County Senior Services Henry Neighbor Newspaper Hudson Bridge Animal Clinic
Joe S. Chafin, DMD, PC Law Office of Matthew M. McCord MBA Wellness Centers, LLC McDonough Arts Council, Inc. McDonough Methodist Academy Nestle Distribution Co. Paw Pad, Inc. The Praying for Paws, Inc. Purchasing Alliance Solutions, Inc. Quality Inn & Suites Conference Center Register - Nelson, Inc. Sam’s Club Showcase Signs, Inc. Smead Manufacturing Co. Tabernacle of Praise Church
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FINANCIAL FOCUS Take advantage of ‘Open Enrollment’ At many places of work, it’s “open enrollment” season, the time where you get to make changes to the various benefits you receive from your employer. As you review your overall benefits package, what areas should you focus on? Here are three possibilities: • Life insurance – If your employer offers life insurance as a benefit, and you haven’t already signed up for it, consider adding it during your open enrollment period because life insurance can be important to your family’s financial security. If you already have life insurance with your employer, you may want to take the time, during open enrollment, to review your beneficiary designations. If you’ve experienced a change in your family situation, such as divorce or remarriage, you’ll want to update your beneficiaries, as needed. However, the amount of life
insurance offered by your employer in a group policy may not be sufficient for your needs, so you may want to consult with a financial professional to determine if you should add private, or individual, coverage. You may find that individual coverage is comparable, in terms of cost, to your employer’s coverage. Also, individual coverage is “portable” — that is, you can take it with you if you change jobs. • Disability insurance – Your employer may also offer disability insurance as a low-cost benefit. The coverage can be invaluable. In fact, nearly one in three women, and about one in four men, can expect to suffer a disability that keeps them out of work for 90 days or longer at some point during their working years, according to the Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education (LIFE). Again, as was the case with life insurance,
your employer’s disability policy may not be enough for your needs, so you may need to consider additional coverage. •Retirement plan – Your employer may offer a 401(k) or similar retirement plan, such as a 403(b) plan, if you work for an educational institution or a nonprofit organization, or a 457(b) plan, if you work for a governmental unit. All these plans offer the chance to contribute pretax dollars; so the more you put in, the lower your taxable income. Equally important, your earnings can grow tax deferred, which means your money can accumulate faster than if it were placed in an account on which you paid taxes every year. Consequently, try to contribute as much as you can possibly afford to your 401(k) or other employersponsored plan. If you’ve gotten a raise recently, consider boosting your contributions during open
We Have Many Reasons
To Give Thanks.
enrollment. Also, take this opportunity to review the array of investments you’ve chosen for your 401(k) or other plan. If you feel that they’re underperforming and not providing you with the growth opportunities you need, you may want to consider making some changes. You might also think about making adjustments if your portfolio has shown more volatility than the level with which you are comfortable. Your financial professional can help you determine if your investment mix is still suitable for your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. Open enrollment season gives you the perfect opportunity to maximize those benefits offered to you by your employer. So, think carefully about what you’ve got and what improvements you can make — it will be time well spent.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Open enrollment – the perfect opportunity to maximize benefits offered by your employer.
We hope you enjoy Thanksgiving Day with your family and friends.
You are one of them. On this Thanksgiving holiday, we thank you for your business. We value you as a client and look forward to continuing to help you reach your long-term financial goals. Financial Advisor Financial Advisor ® John H. Dorminy IV, AAMS® Lin Watts, AAMS 190 Turner Street 305 Olde Towne Way McDonough, GA 30252 McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 957-0250 (678) 583-1325 Member SIPC
www.edwardjones.com
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