April 2012 HCCC Newsletter by Henry County Chamber of Commerce

a henr y co u nt y chamber of commerce p u blication

APRIL 2012 in this issue Chairman’s Message

Business Profile

Calendar 4 HC Industry Appreciation Week 5 Support Our Teachers

It’s Happening in Henry

New Members/Renewals

Chamber Briefs

April BBL 12 2012 HC Star Students 12 Farewell to Roger Nix

Ribbon Cuttings

Business After Hours

Edward Jones

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.

H ampton

L oc u st

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YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS

M c D ono u gh

S toc k bridge

A Salute To Our Cities The HCCC proudly joins the Georgia Municipal Association in celebrating the four cities of Henry County during Georgia Cities Week, April 22-28. Of the more than 200,000 residents of Henry County, over 60,000 reside within the city limits of Hampton, Locust Grove, McDonough and Hampton is located approximately 30 miles south of Atlanta and is home to Atlanta Motor Speedway, Nash Farm Battlefield, the FAA’s air traffic control center for the southeastern United States, Southern States, a manufacturer of switches used in high-voltage technology throughout the world, and Georgia’s fourth micro brewery, Jailhouse Brewing Company. The city Hampton Depot was established in 1873 and was first known as Bear Creek or Bear Creek Station, named for the creek that runs through that area. When the railroad was built approximately one mile to the east, the town also moved and was renamed in honor of Brigadier General Wade Hampton, an American soldier who fought in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812.

Atlanta Motor Speedway

Stockbridge. These great cities provide valuable services for their residents and have a positive impact on their quality of life. The 2012 Cities Week theme, The Magic of Cities, reflects the transformational properties of cities and how they provide quality of life through infrastructure, economic development and essential services.

The city’s 100-year-old Train Depot is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and is open daily for art exhibits and to welcome visitors to the city of Hampton. The city prides itself as being designated as a “Tree City” and a “Bird Sanctuary City” as well as a “City of Ethics.” Hampton’s current population is 6,987, with about 2,200 households and covers 4.5 square miles. The city’s 2012 budget is $8.5 million. Revenues are generated through utilities for electricity, water and sewer, solid waste fees, fines and forfeitures, and LOST, SPLOST and hotel/motel taxes.

Downtown Hampton Services provided for residents include: police protection, water and sewer, electricity, waste management, parks, building inspections and permitting (including electrical, HVAC, plumbing, life safety code enforcement); soil erosion and sedimentation control services, and streets, roads and sidewalk and right of way maintenance. Hampton enjoys hosting several festivals and celebrations throughout the year, including: the Yellow Pollen Street Festival, the Bear Creek Festival, Christmas at Home, Chocolate Fest and the Haunted Depot. For more information about Hampton contact Mayor R.W.Coley or City Manager Andy Pippin at 770-946-4306.

Locust Grove derived its name from a beautiful grove of locust trees that could be seen throughout the town. The city was incorporated December 20, 1893 with city limits radiating a quarter mile in every direction from the train depot in the heart of town. The city was a major rail distribution center for cotton, peaches and other farm products. The city had three cotton gins and several warehouses. In 1870, the first store was built on Main Street. The French Market Continued on page 10.

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Chairman’s Message Danny Brown

Kudos to a Nearby County and Thanks for the Motivation The wheel transformed civilization probably as much as fire did. More so than sliced bread, even though often we talk about the greatest thing since…well, you know. There have been many iterations of the mousetrap. It keeps improving, some argue. But the wheel is still the wheel. No reason to reinvent it, right? Agreed. Its discovery has become a metaphor for something that works and doesn’t need a lot of improvement. Every now and then, we need to look around us, recognize a wheel and replicate it, not completely go back to the proverbial drawing board. Case in point: A county onethird Henry’s size about an hour-and-a-half to our northeast seems to have figured out a formula for economic development that can serve as a model we can follow in our own efforts. Jackson County, population 60,000, has harnessed the power of its Chamber, city and county governments, educational institutions, utility companies, state and federal agencies and others to bring a laser-focused approach to economic development. Through the “Alliance for Economic Development,” Jackson County brought an organized approach to attracting new businesses within its borders. So good have they been at it, that in the last four months alone, Toyota, Kubota and Bed, Bath and Beyond have all announced plans for new or greatly expanded facilities, and with those announcements, millions of dollars

in new investments and hundreds of new jobs. Let’s remind ourselves of what happens when a big manufacturer or service company decides to locate in our county. Local car dealers sell more cars, we build more schools and hire more teachers, the value of our homes increase, an expanded tax base begets expanded services and our economic outlook improves greatly. So how did a rural county like Jackson jump-start its economic development efforts to the point that it is among the leaders, if not at the top of the list, in attracting major business development and jobs. I’d be willing to wager that it began with a group of business leaders, most likely chamber members, who saw beyond an immediate personal financial gain and realized that the real payoff comes when the entire county thrives. From there, they started talking to their own contacts, developers, bankers and business colleagues and asking “why not Jackson?” Henry County has certainly had its share of big business wins in the past few years. And many dedicated individuals and organizations have worked very hard to make that happen. We owe them all a huge “thank you” for all they’ve done. But I wonder if we might take a page out of Jackson County’s playbook and re-focus our efforts on a major economic development initiative. It will not happen overnight but we can certainly start it now. Let’s bring everyone,

and I mean every single party, to the table and kick-start a similar plan for Henry County. In one, two, or even five years from now, I’d love to be in a head-to-head showdown with Jackson County for manufacturing plants, fulfillment centers and hundreds of jobs. We have the infrastructure, the know-how, the business acumen, the transportation corridor and the desire to win. What we need is the commitment and the organized effort to pull it off. Can I get a few hundred headnods? One, two or five years from now, I firmly believe we can win that showdown with Jackson or any other Georgia county. Why not Henry? Thank you Jackson!

One, two or five years from now, I firmly believe we can win that showdown with Jackson or any other Georgia county. Why not Henry? Thank you Jackson!

Danny Brown and his wife, Patti, are owners of SERVPRO® of Henry, Spalding and Clayton Counties, as well as SERVPRO® of Decatur, all headquartered in McDonough. SERVPRO is the nation’s leader in fire & water damage cleanup and restoration.

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Business Profile ALPLA is a global company that creates plastic packaging solutions.

About the Company The company began in 1955 in Hard, Austria by founding father, Alwin Lehner, who made plastic bottles in the garage behind his house. Today the company has 148 plants in 39 countries that employ 13,000 people. ALPLA has grown to 12 plants in the U.S. employing approximately 700 people. The McDonough facility was established in 2002 and is headed by Richard Banks, Plant Manager. Mr. Banks was born in Manchester, England and has a career in plastics that spans over 24 years. He has been with ALPLA for eight years and in the U.S. since 2005, helping to set up two of the U.S. locations. The plant employees 100-150 people and is considered to be the corporate office for the U.S., providing services to the other locations throughout the country. ALPLA provides extrusion blow moulding services for a variety of customers at each of the locations. Bottles produced at the McDonough facility may be found in most Henry County residences and contain primarily homecare, healthcare, beauty or per-

sonal care products. Community Support ALPLA is involved in the Henry County Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, Greater Henry County SHRM and the Adopt-a-Highway program. The company also contributes to a number of charities such as Piedmont Henry Hospital, March of Dimes, Stepping Stones Educational Therapy Center in Griffin, and Haven House in McDonough. In addition, company employees are encouraged to contribute to local charities. Chamber Involvement “Chamber membership provides us a pulse on what is happening in Henry County,” says Jackie Karr. “It also provides an avenue to afford many business, social and economic opportunities to get to know our community better. I recommend Chamber membership to others because aside from all the business benefits you get, you really get a chance on a personal level to be a contributing member in your community and to meet others who want to make a difference as well.”

Richard Banks, ALPLA Plant Manager

A day of

Community Service Saturday, April 21, 2012 8:00 a.m. - Noon Sponsored by Leadership Henry 2012 A program of the Chamber of Commerce How to help:

✔ Submit a project ✔ Volunteer ✔ Donate Learn more at

www.HandsOnHenry.org

Tickets available at the Chamber or online at www.henrycounty.com • Click on May 3rd Event Calendar

HenryCounty.com

APRIL 2012 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

thursday

4 8 AM Leadership Henry BOD 9 AM Hands on Henry

24 8:30 AM Education Committee

7:30 AM HCCC BOD

Hands on Henry Day

10 AM Small Business Council 11 AM Business Boosters Luncheon

25 Noon – Ambassadors Luncheon

11:30 AM Government Affairs

8 AM CVB BOD 10 AM Membership Committee 4PM Collette Vacation NOON Industry Appreciation Orientation, Hudgins Rm Luncheon 3:30 PM Media Relations

Saturday

8 AM Youth Leadership Henry BOD

8:30 AM Ed. Foundation 8:30 AM Golf Committee New Member Reception, 6 – 8 PM ELCC

Friday

5:30 PM Business After Hours, LIFESouth

Chamber Staff Kay Pippin, President Roger Nix, Membership Director Laura Luker, Director of Tourism Diane Ide, Director of Communications Phyllis Reeves, Information Specialist 2012 Board of Directors Executive Committee Danny Brown, Chairman, SERVPRO® of Henry, Spalding & Clayton Counties & Decatur Eddie Ausband, Chair-Elect, The Ausband Agency, Inc. Leonard Moreland, Secretary/Treasurer, Heritage Bank Taylor Rice, Immediate Past Chair

Brad Thomas, Vice Chair for Economic & Cultural Development, Snapping Shoals EMC Charlie Scott, Vice Chair for Chamber Development, Piedmont Henry Hospital June Wood, Vice Chair for Government & Education, Georgia Power Julie Hoover-Ernst, CVB Chair, Henry County Board of Commissioners Kay Pippin, Henry County Chamber of Commerce President CLASS OF 2012 Herschel Arant, Central Georgia EMC Danny Brown, SERVPRO of Henry & Spalding Counties Steve Moore, Moore Bass Consulting, Inc. John Newman, Classic Landscapes, Inc. Laura Turner, Eleste Marketing, Inc. June Wood, Georgia Power

CLASS OF 2013 Eddie Ausband, The Ausband Agency Greg Cannon, Cannon-Cleveland Funeral Directors Steve Nail, Nail Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Shane Persaud, Building Design Partnership, LLC Rhonda Segers, United Community Bank Denise Sowell, Capitol Street Financial Services CLASS OF 2014 James Chafin, Judge, Henry County State Court Lisa Kinchen, Owner/Editor, H Magazine Leonard Moreland, President & CEO, Heritage Bank David Pittman, CFO, Bennett International Group William Strickland, President, Bellamy-Strickland Chevrolet Brad Thomas, President/CEO, Snapping Shoals EMC

Ex Officio Members Chairman Elizabeth “B.J.” Mathis, HC Board of Commissioners Mayor R.W. Coley, City of Hampton Mayor Robert Price, City of Locust Grove Mayor Billy Copeland, City of McDonough Mayor Lee Stuart, City of Stockbridge Ethan Hildreth, Superintendent, Henry County Schools Charlie Scott, CEO, Piedmont Henry Hospital Vickie Loper, Chairman, Henry County Development Authority Roderick Burch, Henry County Water and Sewerage Authority Holly Campbell, Leadership Henry Jake Carter, Chair Appointee Peto Fallas, Chair Appointee Gerald Hudgins, Chair Appointee

HenryCounty.com

Henry County Celebrates Industry Appreciation Week April 16-20 Henry County is home to a diverse array of businesses – from manufacturing and distribution, to healthcare and corporate headquarters and support facilities – and they each serve as a vital piece of the puzzle when it comes to sustaining economic vitality. For the third consecutive year, Henry County will recognize the contributions of our local industries during Industry Appreciation Week, April 16-20, 2012. Industry Appreciation Week provides the community an opportunity to express its gratitude to the many companies, large and small, who have discovered the power of location in Henry County. When it comes to Henry County industries, the list reads like a “Who’s Who” of some of the world’s top corporate names. A drive-through any of the

county’s Class A office or industrial parks is like a trip through the Fortune 500. From corporate headquarters, distribution centers and support services to manufacturing and technology, more and more companies are choosing Henry to grow their businesses. Phillips-Van Heusen and De Wafelbakkers are just two of the most recent additions to the county’s landscape who have discovered the power of location and community that Henry County offers. Join us in saluting Henry County’s existing industries!

ALPLA, Inc. Amware Pallet Services, LLC Atlas Roofing Corporation AT&T Behr Process Corporation Bennett International Group, Inc. Briggs & Stratton Products Group Carlisle Tire & Wheel Company Carter’s, Inc. Ceramic & Metal Coatings Corp. Clark Dietrich Metal Framing, Inc.

Crayex Corporation Ecolab Disco, Inc. Encompass Group, LLC Exel Logistics/Kimberly Clark Federal Aviation Administration Ford Parts & Distribution GENCO Logistics/Levi Strauss GENCO Logistics/Sears Georgia Crown Distributing Company Georgia Power Customer Care Center

LOGISTICS HEALTHCARE CORPORATE SERVICES MANUFACTURING RETAIL TRAVEL & TOURISM

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company Henry County Government Henry County Schools Home Depot IFCO Systems North America Inline Plastics Corporation John Deere Distribution Center Ken’s Foods, Inc. KIK-Georgia, Inc. Kuehne & Nagel/Pirelli Kuehne & Nagel/DirectTV

Kumho Tire USA, Inc. Lennox Industries Luxottica Retail Group Maurice Sporting Goods Metro Metal Works, Inc. Nestle USA, Inc. Millard Refrigerated Services Ozburn-Hessey Logistics Pep Boys Distribution Center Phillips-Van Heusen Piedmont Henry Hospital

Simmons Manufacturing Comp., Inc. Sims Superior Seating, Inc. Smead Manufacturing Company Southern States, LLC Sports Authority Summit Racing Equipment Symcor, Inc. Toppan Interamerica, Inc. Toys “R” Us Versacold Logistics Services Whirlpool

Items for Teacher Gift Bags Help Teachers, Demonstrate Your Support ... and Promote Your Business! It’s time once again to begin ordering and collecting items for Teacher Induction Program (TIP) gift bags that will be presented to new Henry County teachers in July. These teachers not only will provide educational opportunities for our children, as they locate to our community, they will also have a significant impact on our local economy. This is an excellent opportunity to introduce them to your business.

Below is a list of preferred items, developed by teachers, as suggestions for the TIP gift bags*. These are items often needed in the classroom each year. While the exact number of new hires is yet to be confirmed, securing 125 of one of these items for new teachers, will prepare you not only do you advertise your business, but you reduce the out-of-pocket costs for teachers to stock their classrooms. We hope you find value in helping Henry County’s newest teachers start off on the right foot!

Tri-colored highlighters • Ball point pens • Pencils • Dry erase markers with eraser • Water bottles • Key chain flash lights Mini stapler • Magnetic memo holder clip • Magnifier ruler • Memo holder • Paperweight • Tape Measure • Mirror Small calculator • Staple Remover • Paper clips & holder • Note pads • Wooden rulers • Small first aid kit • Set of assorted color gel pens *Printed advertisements such as promotional flyers, brochures, etc. cannot be accepted unless they contain a coupon for FREE items not requiring additional purchases. Please drop off the 125 items at the Chamber by July 13 for the gift bag stuffing party later that week.

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it’s happening in Henry Comfortably South of Atlanta Ballerina Princess Day Camp (Ages 3 - 6) April 2-6 – Full Day: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m./ Half Day: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Atlanta Festival Ballet Studio

Come join us as we spend the day learning basic ballet technique and movement. In addition students will have fun with ballerina princess related arts and crafts such as making their very own princess tiaras, playing dress up, listening to or watching fairy tale stories, and much, much more!

Easter Bunny Photos Grandbaby Treasures - Suite 618 (Tanger) March 29 - April 7 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt March 30 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Nash Farm Battlefield Bring a flashlight and your Easter basket as we hunt for eggs in the dark! Activities include pictures with the Easter Bunny, Easter crafts, inflatables, a petting zoo and more! We’ll start hunting eggs at 7:00pm for the little ones ages 2-5 but the older kids, ages 6-12, will have to wait until the sun goes down! The Radio Disney AM 590 Road Crew will be playing your favorite music and games and giving away awesome prizes from 5:30pm-7:30pm. Admission is FREE. Call 770-288-7300 for more information.

Locust Grove Community Wide Yard Sale March 31 -- Locust Grove City Hall Lawn

This Spring event draws thousands of bargain hunters to the front lawn of City Hall. To reserve a sales spot, please call (770) 957-6171.

Pictures with the Easter Bunny March 31 – 10:00 a.m. – Noon -- Locust Grove Mayors’ Walk Park

Join us for pictures with the Easter Bunny in Historic Downtown Mayors’ Walk Park. Bring you little ones for pictures with the Bunny. You may purchase various photo packages so make sure you order enough to share. Enjoy shopping in downtown for special Easter deals. Event is from 10:00 AM until Noon.

Hampton Easter Egg Hunt March 31 – 2:00 p.m. -- McBrayer Park

Sponsored by the HBMA (Hampton Business and Merchants Association) Begins at 2 pm; rain date is April 7th. More information at www.hamptonbusinessmerchants.com.

Rusty Wallace Racing Experience March 31-April 1 -- Atlanta Motor Speedway

For more information visit www.racewithrusty.com or call (855) 22-RUSTY.

Pick Your Own Strawberries Early April -- Southern Belle Farm

Southern Belle Farm is looking forward to opening is Strawberry patch up to the public for their fourth season growing strawberries! The Pick Your Own Strawberry patch is planning in early April Mother Nature willing. Following the strawberry crop will be blackberries that will produce into the summer months and allow folks to come to the farm for berry picking. For information about berry availability, visit www.SouthernBelleFarm.com.

Sugar & Spice Day Camp (Ages 6 - 9) April 2-6 – Full Day: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m./ Half Day: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Atlanta Festival Ballet Studio

This camp will incorporate dance, drama, and music. Musical Theater workshops will be featured as well as Tea Parties and Spa Parties.

Henry County Parks & Recreation Spring Break Day Camp -- April 2 – 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

The Henry County Parks and Recreation Department Day Camp Program strives to provide a quality day camp environment for campers. Through providing social, educational, and recreational activities, campers are able to experience a well-rounded program. Activities include: arts and crafts, games, field trips and other creative means of expression and recreation. The Spring Break Day Camp field trip is to LegoLand. Registration ends March 30. Camp Locations: Fairview Recreation Center, Heritage Park & J.P. Moseley Recreation Center. The following two camps will need 10 campers per site in order to have camp Nash Farm Park and Locust Grove Rec Center.

Frog Slog — April 7 – 5:00 p.m. Panola Mountain State Park

Learn how to identify frogs by their calls. Investigate wetlands and streams in search of frogs and salamanders. Be prepared to get wet, muddy, and bring a flashlight and headlamp, nets, seines and buckets. Meet at the Nature Center. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

Easter Sunrise Service April 8 -7:00 a.m. -- McDonough Square

The 32nd annual Easter Sunrise Service will be held on Sunday, April 8, 2012, at 7am on the McDonough Square.

Create Your Own Style Contest In partnership with STAR 94 April 14 – 2:00 p.m.

Come see 6 local finalist compete on stage to win one fo rtwo $500 Tanger Shopping Sprees for Beast Style and Best Value. See the hottest looks of the seasos and learn how to create your own look – TangerStyle.

Hairspray presented by the Henry Players April 12-15 - Thurs-Sat. -7:30 pm & Sunday -2:30 pm -- Henry County Performing Arts Center HAIRSPRAY sweeps you away to 1960’s Baltimore, where the 50’s are out -- and change is in the air. Loveable plus-size heroine, Tracy Turnblad, has a passion for dancing, and wins a spot on the local TV dance program. Overnight she finds herself transformed from outsider to teen celebrity. Can a larger-than-life adolescent manage to vanquish the program’s reigning princess without mussing her hair?

NASCAR Racing Experience April 13-14 -- Atlanta Motor Speedway

For more information visit www. nascarracingexperience.com or call (877) RACE-LAP.

Mayor’s Community Bike Ride April 15 – 3:00 p.m. -- Stockbridge City Hall

Join Mayor Stuart on the new Reeves Creek Trail. The community bike rides will leave the City Hall parking lot at 3:00pm and go for about 7 miles concluding back at City Hall. The route will include 1.5 miles of the new Reeves Creek Trail and another 2 miles through the surrounding neighborhood. These rides are open to all ages and will continue every 3rd Sunday. It is not a requirement to wear a helmet but everyone is asked to wear a helmet for safety purposes.

Noah’s Ark Craft Fair -- April 21 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. -- Noah’s Ark Spring ArtFest presented by the McDonough Arts Council -- April 21 – 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. -- McDonough Square

McDonough Arts is seeking artists and pound cake bakers to showcase their talents during Easter Egg Hunt and Bonnet Parade Spring ArtFest. The festival features a diverse artists market, live entertainment, a “Tastiest April 7 -10:00 a.m. -- Locust Grove City Hall Pound Cake Contest” and People’s Choice Annual Easter egg hunt for children ages 2 through Award for favorite artwork. Artists interested 6th grade on the grounds of the Locust Grove City in reserving a booth may print out an an Hall complex. Easter bonnet/hat contest for adults application from the McDonough Arts website and children. Tanger Outlet Center gift certificates (www.mcdonougharts.net). The deadline will be awarded for the most colorful, largest, and for applications is April 9, and the event is unique bonnets/hats. Easter parade led by Mr. Easter limited to 25 artist booths. Pound cake bakers Bunny himself. Then let the hunt begin for candymay also find a complete set of rules on the filled eggs and special eggs for prizes. Event begins McDonough Arts website. Entry forms for the at 10:00 AM. “Tastiest Pound Cake” Contest are due April 9.

Tanger Outlet Spring Fashion Week Designer Showcase -- April 9-14 -- Tanger Outlet – Locust Grove

Visit Tanger Shopper Services to pick up you Exclusive Shopping Pass and Official Fashion Week Calendar filled with extra savings and in-store events going on all week long.

Richard Petty Driving Experience April 19-22 -- Atlanta Motor Speedway

For more information visit www.drivepetty. com or call (800) BE-PETTY.

Better Birdwatching Program & Walk April 21 - 3:30 p.m. -- Panola Mnt State Park

DVD author Joe LaFleur will provide an audiovisual program

about common migrant birds. The program will help you identify birds by sight and sound and will also review preferred habitats where each species is likely to be encountered. After this, join Mr. LaFleur for a guided bird walk at the Alexander Lake area. $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

Winter Flurry Legends Racing: Off-Season Race April 21 -- Atlanta Motor Speedway

NASCAR’s stars of tomorrow battle for short-track supremacy on Atlanta Motor Speedway’s “Thunder Ring,” the facility’s frontstretch quarter-mile oval track, during the 2011-12 Winter Flurry season. Each event features multiple classes of Legends, Bandolero and Thunder Roadster racing. Fans can purchase infield passes at the Security Command building near the speedway’s main entrance. Infield access costs just $12 for adults, $5 for children ages six through 11 and admission is free for children ages five and younger. Cost to race is just $25. Minors and their guardians are required to complete a minor waiver before children ages 17 and younger can enter the infield; the waiver and instructions can be found at www.atlantamotorspeedway.com. For more information, visit www.legendsofga.com or www. atlantamotorspeedway.com

Get Lost! and then Found at Park-a-Palooza! -April 22 – 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Friends of DNR Search and Rescue invite you to celebrate Earth Day at the Alexander Lake side of Panlola to enjoy all that the park has to offer. Come for pet adoptions, face painting, archery, boating, fishing and a silent auction. Donations appreciated. $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine : Season Opening Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine April 27 -- Atlanta Motor Speedway

Competing nearly every Friday night from April through August, local competitors power up for weekly drag racing among several divisions. Everything from full-blown dragsters to grandma’s grocery-getter will compete in side-by-side, heads-up drag racing along the speedway’s pit road eighthmile drag strip. The Show-N-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 frontstretch 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 more information or call (770) 946-4211.

Locust Grove Day April 28 – 10:00 a.m. -- City Hall Lawn

The City of Locust Grove will hold its’ annual Locust Grove Day event on April 28, 2012. The parade will begin at 10:00am at the Locust Grove library and travel through Historic Downtown Locust Grove ending at the City Hall complex where the festivities of the day will take place. There will be arts and crafts, food, games, and entertainment throughout the day. The event is free to the public. For more information, call 770-957-5043. To participate in the parade please call 770-692-2323 and to have a booth during the event please call 770-957-6171

Dottie WISE

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

Each Firm is independently Owned and Operated

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770-320-7786 Ph • 770-320-7787 Fax

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CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP Thank You to our RENEWING Members

Animal Control Experts, LLC Benton Village - A Senior Living Community Best Western McDonough Inn & Suites Brooks & Maddox Cosmetic & Family Dentistry Castrol Premium Lube Express City of Stockbridge DeVry University Dolphin Shipping & Trading Ecolab Edward Jones - Vanessa Conwell First Baptist Church of McDonough First National Bank - Hampton First National Bank - Heron Bay Fun Bowl of Henry County Gary A. Bartholomew, DMD Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta, Inc. Greater Henry SHRM Healthplans of Georgia Henry County Development Authority

Henry County Local Emergency Planning Commission Hometown Online Info Hudgins Construction Company Incredible Southern Poundcakes Italian Oven Joyce Rodgers Pinnacle Advertising Specialties, Inc. Preston & Cleveland Wealth Management, LLC Ramada Limited Shane’s Rib Shack, The Original Southern Crescent Technical College Stantec Consulting Services, Inc. Summit Racing Equipment The Crossing at McDonough TireSouth, Inc. Tri-Copy Office Equipment Wal-Mart - Willow Lane Zion Baptist Church

Rome & the Amalfi Coast • November 1-10, 2012 Highlights…. Whisper Headsets • Rome • Regional Wines with Dinner • Ravello • Villa Rufolo • Vietri-sul-Mare • Sorrento Amalfi Coast • Paestum • Pompeii • Wine Tasting • Naples Archeological Museum Double $3,099 • Single $4,239 • Triple $3,419 per person Book Now & Save $200 per person • Reservation Deadline of May 1st is almost here–CALL TODAY!

gram Travel Ptraotion: Orien 8th @ 4 p.m.

y, April 1 Wednesda C Hudgins Room l be HCC tive wil representa ny questions e lett l o C a A to answer available bout the trips. a

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP NEW MEMBERS Arrow Exterminators Shane Loftin 413 McDonough Parkway, McDonough 30253 (678) 583-9730 Barley and Vine Dan Vallish 1445 Rock Quarry Road, Suite 204, Stockbridge 30281 (404) 547-4241 BB&T - Branch Banking & Trust Ken Gaylord 12 N Zack Hinton Parkway, McDonough 30253 (678) 583-5404 BB&T - Branch Banking & Trust Kelly Boudoucies 12 N Zack Hinton Parkway, McDonough 30253 (770) 914-3675 Boy Scouts of America Jonathan Swatts P.O. Box 173, Griffin 30224 (404) 852-8915 Elite Logistics Darian Coaxum 5220 Heron Bay Boulevard, Locust Grove 30248 (205) 612-7789 MedCross Imaging P.C. Kuo Lee 1107 Eagle’s Landing Parkway, Stockbridge 30281 (770) 507-2711 Morrow Center Stephen Sullivan McDonough 30253 (678) 489-5161

Parker Young Construction & FireStar, Inc. Dawn Tapley 6815 Crescent Drive, Norcross 30071 (770) 820-8330 Plumbing Distributors, Inc. Ben Taylor 290 Racetrack Road, McDonough 30252 (770) 954-1063 Pullin Cloud Technologies Jason Pullin 129 Kiara Lane, Stockbridge 30281 (678) 592-2871 Rotary Club of Henry County Annette Rogers P.O. Box 2555, McDonough 30253 (478) 256-4026 Southside Kidney Clinics, PC Christopher Holihan 3580 Cameron Parkway, Stockbridge 30281 (678) 565-6228 Southside Realtors Jim Butcher 20 Old Jackson Road, McDonough 30252 (770) 914-2122 Speakeasy Bookstore Donald Cannon 5 E. Main Street, Hampton 30228 (678) 322-6709 Upscale Resale Shoppe Burch Wright 303 Jonesboro Road, McDonough 30253 (678) 432-0012

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Publication of Henrycounty.com is made possible in part by the support of the Board Members of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce. Thank You!

City of Stockbridge

Superintendent STOCKBRIDGE 850 Eagles Landing Pkwy | 770-507-5855 MCDONOUGH 865 Hwy 20/81 W | 770-898-1988 LOCUST GROVE 4970 Bill Gardner Parkway | 770-288-3500

Lee Stuart, Mayor

Billy Copeland, Mayor

770-957-3915

FIRE & WATER- CLEANUP & RESTORATION 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

770-957-6601 770-914-6178 FAX

Danny Brown General Manager

ethan.hildreth@henry.k12.ga.us

934 DAILEY MILL ROAD McDONOUGH, GA 30253 dbrown@servpro8537.com

Rhonda J. Segers Retail Sales Manager 678-289-2503

770-389-7910

City of McDonough

OF CLAYTON COUNTY OF DECATUR OF HENRY & SPALDING COUNTIES

Ethan Hildreth

22 N. Zack Hinton Parkway McDonough, Georgia 30253

Nationally Known - Locally Owned

Member FDIC | ucbi.com

Henry County Chamber of Commerce Convention & Visitors Bureau 1709 Highway 20 West Westridge Business Center McDonough, GA 30253

770-957-5786

City of Hampton

Eddie Ausband, CFP

R. W. Coley

4920 N. Henry Blvd Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: 770-507-401K 770-389-9060 x 102 eausband@revanta.com

Mayor

P.O. Box 400 17 East Main Street South Hampton, Georgia 30228

City Hall: 770.946.4306 Fax: 770.946. 4356

(770) 997-5689 (404) 378-9998 (678) 432-3003 FAX: (770) 914-1078

Every LIFE has a story. Celebrate it!

Greg Cannon

770-914-1414

www.cannonclevelandfunerals.com

Companion Care Cremation Services

910 Dailey Mill Road McDonough, GA 30253

770-692-3819 Greg Cannon owner

“Lillie”

www.companioncarega.com

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

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Continued from page 1

Locust Grove City Hall & ’59 Ford Police Car The city’s most important landmark building is the Locust Grove Institute (circa 1894), founded by the Locust Grove Baptist Church and Mercer University. The school provided college preparatory classes stressing learning in all facets of life at the turn of the century. The institute closed its doors in May 1930 due to the Great Depression, remaining empty until 1936 when it became a grammar school for the city. The City of Locust Grove purchased the grounds in 1983 and it is presently known as the Locust Grove Municipal Complex. Throughout the 20th Century, the city grew in all directions, most notably from 1970-1990 along the I-75 Interchange at Bill Gardner Parkway, bringing with it the Tanger Outlet Center. The city now covers 11 square miles, or 400% more area than in 2000. Tremendous population growth followed as well, with the city increasing from 2,322 in 2000 to 5,402 according to the 2010 Census. The city’s annual budget totals nearly $6 million with major sources of revenue consisting of LOST, SPLOST and hotel/motel taxes, Franchises Fees, Alcohol Tax, Fines and Forfeitures, Business License and Utility Fees. Services provided by the city include: police protection, road and street maintenance, water supply, wastewater treatment, sanitation, stormwater maintenance, planning and zoning services, building permitting and code enforcement. The city is a regional retail center for the Atlanta region. The largest employer is Tanger Outlet Center, which features over 70 stores including soon-to-be-

Tanger Outlet

opened Building 700, increasing higher-end offerings such as Talbots, Brooks Brothers, Under Armour, Lucky Brand Jeans and Columbia Sportswear. Additional retail include Market Place at Locust Grove, featuring Walmart, Zaxby’s as well as a new IHOP and over 40,000 square feet of retail space. This supplements an existing retail base of the Ingle’s Center with surrounding specialty retail and services such as hotels and restaurants. For more information about Locust Grove, contact Mayor Robert Price, Interim City Manager Tim Young or City Clerk Theresa Breedlove, (770) 957-5043. McDonough was part of the Creek Indian Nation until 1821. On March 2, 1821, the First Treaty of Indian Springs was created and subsequently, on December 21, 1821, Henry County was founded. On December 17, 1823, McDonough was established as the County Seat and was named for Commander Thomas McDonough, who won a great naval victory on the waters of Lake Champlain in New York against the British Army during the War of 1812.

McDonough Today, this historic town has over 20,000 citizens, yet, in so many significant ways has been able to maintain a small town focus and quality of life. Each time an event is hosted in the Square Park, crowds of friends and families gather to celebrate as a community. Downtown stores and restaurants thrive with customers who want to spend their money in places where the proprietor remembers their name. The City of McDonough, known as The Geranium City, is only twenty-eight miles from Atlanta. McDonough’s primary industries include Briggs and Stratton, Encompass, Norfolk Southern Training Center, South Pointe retail center, as well as a number of major manufacturers and distribution centers in our industrial area. McDonough is also home to the Henry County Board of Education offices, as well as the Henry County :judicial system and government complex. McDonough proudly hosts several major events throughout the year including a multi-ecumenical

Veterans Wall of Honor Easter Sunrise Service, The Geranium Festival, a Fourth of July Ice Cream Social and Patriotic Program, a Job Fair partnering with major industries in the County and Atlanta area, a Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade, and a New Year’s Eve Geranium Drop. McDonough’s 2012 budget is $25.1 million. Services offered to the city’s residents include: police, fire, EMT, Public Works and Streets; water; sewer treatment; a community development and building department, and storm water management. For more information about McDonough, contact Mayor Billy Copeland at 770-957-3915. Stockbridge was incorporated in 1920 and has a current population of 25,636. The city is located in the northern part of the county, between Interstates 675 and 75 and along the Norfolk-Southern railroad. The community was founded in 1829 one mile north of its present site around the old Concord Methodist Church. In the late 1800s, the town moved south when the railroad was built there. The first Post Office was named in honor of Levi Stockbridge, a “Yankee professor,” who traveled along the East Coast teaching classes in various communities.

Stockbridge City Hall Stockbridge has a unique and rich cultural history. Stockbridge is the birthplace of Martin (then Michael) Luther King Sr, born December 19, 1899. He preached his first sermon at the Floyd Chapel Baptist Church and was ordained a minister at the age of fifteen. MLK Sr’s, father, James King, worked in the local rock quarry and did sharecropping throughout

the Stockbridge area. James and Delia King are both buried at Rocky Mount Baptist Church. Stockbridge is also home to: the multi-platinumselling alternative rock band, Collective Soul; Kyle Davies, one of the youngest pitchers ever to pitch for the Atlanta Braves; and Eagle’s Landing Golf & Country Club, known for its championship golf course. Stockbridge is also home to Piedmont Henry Hospital, a 215-bed not-for-profit community hospital known for its leading technology, high quality care and outstanding service. During 2009-2010 Stockbridge built a New City Hall, Police Department Headquarters, Municipal Court building and a Community Center. A new Fire Station will be completed in 2012. Stockbridge recently started many community activities such as a Memorial Day Parade/celebration, Veteran’s Day Dinner and Parade, Black History Gala, and Music in the Park,

Bike Trail Designated as a City of Ethics through GMA, Stockbridge has four city parks that include pavilions and gazebos available to reserve. Other park amenities include, biking and walking trails & tracks, tennis courts, basketball courts, picnic tables, grills, restrooms and brand new, state of the art playground equipment for kids of all ages. Reeves Creek Trail is the latest park project, completed in August 2011, with a 1 1/2 mile concrete bike trail that goes through Memorial Park and is open for everyone to enjoy! The city has an operation budget of approximately $20 million with major revenue sources coming from LOST, SPLOST & Use Taxes, Business and Franchise Taxes. For more information about Stockbridge, contact: Mayor Lee Stuart, 770-389-7900.

Merle Manders Conference Center

HenryCounty.com

April Chamber Briefs ... Congratulations to: Shane’s Rib Shack – Erin Lopez, 9th the Original celebratgrader at Communied their 10th anniversaty Christian School ry on March 24. During on receiving the Henthe day they gave away ry Heritage Reader of prizes, cotton candy, the Year Award for coupons and raffled Henry County as well a ride in the Atlanta Motor Speedway pace as the Georgia Reading Association’s High car. Henry County is proud that Shane’s Rib School Reader of the Year for Georgia in Shack began here. Shane’s continues to be the 9-12th grade category. an asset to Henry County in many ways – in Manuel Diaz, Piedtrue Shane’s fashion, half the proceeds from mont Henry Hospitheir celebration day’s sales were donated tal’s newly appointed to A Friend’s House. Director of Health Information Management. With 35 years of experience that includes extensive electronic medical records (EMR) expertise, he most recently worked at the Cleveland ClinThe Henry County Board of Com- ic-Florida prior to joining Piedmont Henry. missioners, together with the Henry County Police Department and Elwood Staffing recently celebrated the Sheriff’s Office, celebrated the com- grand openings of two offices in Texas, pletion of the Firing Range at the Hen- increasing their presence to over 60 marry County Public Safety Training in a kets throughout the U.S. With a location ceremony on February 23. in Henry County, the company is based in Columbus, Indiana. Recently Staffing In-

dustry Analysts recognized Elwood Staffing as the 19th largest light-industrial and 57th largest overall staffing firm in the U.S.

Piedmont Henry Hospital on celebrating its first year of offering coronary angioplasty. In that one year over 487 coronary angioplasties have been performed, nearly double the number expected in year one. Piedmont Henry’s coronary angioplasty program already tops the accepted gold standard of 90 minutes for getting patients from their first intervention when they arrive at the hospital until they have balloon(s) inserted to widen blocked coronary arteries. Only one year after introducing the program, the average time for patients is 53 minutes.

Members Can Earn $$ Two BELLAMY-STRICKLAND Ways – Just By Referring Chevrolet • Oldsmobile • Pontiac • GMC Trucks New Members!

TUXEDO RENTALS AND SALES 4534 North Henry Blvd. Stockbridge, GA 30281 (770) 474-5799 $30 off next tuxedo rental* *(see store for details)

• Receive $50 off your next membership renewal or a gift card by bringing in a completed membership application – with payment -- for a new member • Receive $25 off your next membership renewal or a $25 gift card for a referral that leads to a new (paid) member Membership forms are available on the Chamber website. Contact Roger Nix at 770-957-5786 or rnix@henrycounty.com with your referral.

BELLAMY STRICKLAND I-75 5 . 15 Hwy McDonough

I-75 • Exit 216 145 Industrial Blvd. McDonough, GA

770-954-3000

business

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Boosters luncheon

April Business Boosters Luncheon

Business Boosters Lunch in March Featured Business Legal Issues

“Marketing to the Max” Featuring Several Media Expert Panelists & Moderated by Susan Hoffman, HCCC Media Relations Chair April 19, 2012 • HCCC Hudgins Room 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Was marketing the first item you cut in your company’s budget? Has your business struggled to survive with little to no marketing? Which marketing tools work best for you? • What marketing can you afford? What is this “social media” all about? You have the opportunity to ask the experts! Hear from panelists from TV, radio, newspaper, magazine, electronic and social media marketing. Find out why marketing may have been the last area to cut when times got tough! The cost is $12 for Chamber members and $20 for non-members. Reservations are required. Call (770)957-5786 or email preeves@henrycounty.com for more information.

I am just a small family-owned, family-run business, I don’t need to incorporate, right? WRONG! Without incorporating, personal assets may be at risk. This was one of the “Top Five Legal Issues Impacting Small Businesses” according to Melissa Malcom, owner of Melissa P. Malcom, LLC law firm, during her presentation at the March Business Boosters Luncheon. She explained that protecting your personal assets goes beyond filing the incorporation paperwork, and even extends to how you sign contracts for business products and services. “Ignorance is no defense in legal cases,” Malcom says, “You need to know the laws and regulations for your business AND apply them.” One of the most common ways she says businesses fail to do this is by not having and/or enforcing a detailed, industry-specific employee manual. “It is your biggest defense tool in legal situations, but it is also your big-

gest teaching tool for your employees,” Malcom explained. A good employee manual should tell employees what is expected of them, how to comply with industry specific standards and what laws and regulations apply to the business. She cautioned businesses to be very careful how they use the term “independent contractors” as the laws concerning what constitutes someone as an independent contractor rather than an employee are extensive and specific. A few of these conditions include that they supply their own tools, set their own hours and are paid by the project rather than receive a salary. The subject of working hours and salaried employees lead into what she termed “the biggest employment law risk to businesses” which is an unpaid overtime lawsuit. According to Malcom, paying an employee a salary does not mean that a business has complied with the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Chamber Honors 2012 Henry County STAR Students On March 1 the Henry County Chamber of Commerce Education Committee hosted the 2012 Student/Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) breakfast, recognizing honor graduates whose GPA ranks in the top ten percent of their class and who have the highest Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores from each of Henry County’s public and private high schools. Each year the Chamber, thanks to sponsorships by member businesses, hosts the STAR Breakfast to recognize the stellar accomplishments of these outstanding Henry County students and the educators who encouraged and inspired them. Each STAR student selects a current or past teacher who has inspired or moti-

vated them as their STAR Teacher. From this year’s pool of fourteen exceptional students (there was a tie at Woodland High School), the student with the highest SAT score was then honored as Henry County’s STAR Student. After a delicious breakfast at Eagle’s Landing Country Club, Keynote Speaker was Brian Leary, President & CEO of the Atlanta BeltLine, Inc., the company responsible for one of the largest, most wide-ranging urban redevelopment projects currently underway in the United States. Mr Leary delivered an inspiring challenge to the students to become visionaries and make a difference in the world.

Henry County’s 2012 STAR Students

At the conclusion of Mr. Leary’s remarks, Superintendent of Henry County Schools Ethan Hildreth and 2012 HCCC Chairman Danny Brown recognized the 2012 STAR Students and Teachers from each school. Union Grove High School senior Jonathan D. James and his teacher Sandra Swindall were named the 2012 STAR Student and Teacher for Henry County. Fellow STAR Student honorees included: Moyosore M. Akintunde, Stockbridge High School; Jory A. Folker, Luella High School; Jeremy F. Carmack, Ola High School; Micah M. Thompson, Woodland High School; Alana M. Wilson, Woodland High School; Nathaniel B. Robinson, Locust Grove High School; Justin D. Nieto, Eagle’s Landing High School; Dhirajkumar D.

Patel, Dutchtown High School; Josiah Henry, Bible Baptist Christian School; Jacob H. Godin, Strong Rock Christian School; Kelsey A. Pierson, Community Christian School; Aaron P. Spratlin, Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy; Evelyn Ling, Henry County High School. Many thanks to the 2012 STAR sponsors for their support of these students and teachers: Supernova/$500 - Absolutely Flowers; Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta; DeVry University; Georgia Power; and Georgia United Credit Union; Shining Star/$300 Snapping Shoals and ServPro; Rising Star/$150 - Central Georgia EMC; Clayton State University; First National Bank; Smith, Welch, Webb & White; Tanger Outlets; and United Community Bank.

Keynote Speaker, Brian Leary

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Roger Nix, Membership Director … A Fond Farewell

After nine years with the Chamber, Roger Nix, Membership Director, will leave on April 1 in order to expand his now volunteer work with two Delta retiree groups to providing part-time business management services for the organizations. Roger’s tenure with the Chamber began on January 6, 2003 as a part-time Business Development Coordinator. A year later he became the full-time Membership Director. Roger has successfully managed a membership that reached nearly 900 members at one point. Thanks to his skill and ability, the Chamber was able to maintain a steady level of membership during the worst economic decline of this generation. His even, calm demeanor ensures smooth sailing, despite the winds of change or challenge. Roger notes that he is most proud of growing the Chamber’s Golf Tournament to one of the premier golf tournaments in South Metro Atlanta. “I’ve enjoyed working with a fine group of committees that knew what needed to be done and rolled up their sleeves to make it happen,” Roger says of his fellow Chamber

staff: “it’s a small, close-knit organization that’s very professionally run. It’s an easy work environment although simultaneously a highly effective one.” “On behalf of the HCCC Board of Directors, I extend heartfelt appreciation to Roger Nix for over nine years of productive and innovative work on behalf of all Chamber members,” says Kay Pippin, Chamber President. “It will seem strange around the Chamber offices without Roger’s dry wit and Go Dawgs attitude toward all tasks regardless of size and complexity. We will miss Roger and I’m sure all Chamber members and staff join me in wishing him a pleasant semi-retirement and success in his new venture.” Prior to joining the Chamber, Roger worked at Delta Airlines over 37 years, starting in 1966, rising to the position of Manager of Insourcing and Outsourcing, procuring and managing contract labor for both domestic and international operations. Roger and his wife, Dian, who is an active flight attendant, live in McDonough. Best wishes in your future endeavors Roger!

March 1 Rainford Law Firm

4920 N. Henry Blvd. • Stockbridge, GA 30281 Contact: Chalcia Rainford • (678) 583-1679 www.crainfordlawoffice.com

March 2 Speakeasy Bookstore

5 East Main Street • Hampton, GA 30228 Contact: Donald Cannon • (678) 322-6709 www.lakedowmedia.com

Welcome to Gary Sparrow, Our New Membership Director Gary Sparrow recently joined the Henry County Chamber of Commerce as Membership Director, filling the position formerly held by Roger Nix. A long-time volunteer on Chamber committees, Sparrow also brings vast community sales experience, having worked for the Henry Daily Herald for seven years as Advertising Sales Manager. A father of one, Sparrow and his wife reside in Conley, GA.

Presenting Sponsor

Friday, April 20, 2012 6:00 pm til 9:00 pm

at the Jason T. Harper Event Center at Heritage Park in McDonough. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door the day of the event.

ADULT ADMISSION (AGES 13-64): $20 SENIOR ADMISSION (AGES 65+): $15

Adults receive 10 Taste Coupons* & entrance wristband.

CHILDREN AGES 3-12: $5 EACH, UNDER 3 FREE

March 8 Southside Realtors

20 Old Jackson Road • McDonough, GA 30252 Contact: Jim Butcher • (770) 914-2122 www.southsiderealtors.com

Admission includes 2 Taste Coupons*, Two Kid’s Zone Tickets and an entrance wristband.

*Additional taste Coupons may be purchase on-site at $2 each, with event wristband. Taste Coupons are redeemed for one sample per restaurant at a time.

www.tasteofhenry.com

100% Ticket Sales Benefits A Friend’s House

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business AFTER HOURS

April Business After Hours Thursday, April 26 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm Hosted by

329 Westridge Parkway McDonough 678-432-0637

Does what you do help to save lives? It can! For more than 37 years LIFESouth Community Blood Centers, Inc has provided high quality blood products and transfusion-related services to communities throughout Georgia, Florida and Alabama through donations from people just like you. Learn more about the life-altering requirements for blood products that LIFESouth supplies – right here in Henry County. Afraid of needles? Can’t donate? Don’t worry….. Come out just to see where we’re located so that you can tell someone else. Be sure to bring plenty of business cards as you network with fellow Chamber members and guests and for a chance at the door prizes. There will be a drawing for the Chamber jackpot - $200 and you must be present to win.

February Business After Hours at Fidelity Bank

Mardi Gras came to Henry County on February 23 at the Chamber Business After Hours hosted by Fidelity Bank in McDonough. Chamber members and guests, along with guests of the bank enjoyed learning about services and products provided by Fidelity while receiving beads to wear and enjoying hors d’ouvres and the Mardi Gras theme. Attendees won door prizes - thanks to all the mem-

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.

ber businesses who contributed great door prizes for this event! Members not present when their name was called for the $150 Chamber jackpot: Jackie Livingston with Eagle’s Landing OB/GYN; Ken Wright with PublixStockbridge and Skip Pitner, Coldwell Banker Commercial Metro Brokers. As a result, the jackpot increases to $200 at the March Business After Hours.

Call or Come in Today! 16 Hampton Street McDonough, GA 30253 Bead-wearing attendees at Fidelity’s Feb BAH

Fidelity President, Palmer Procter

770-957-9005

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FINANCIAL FOCUS

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Put Time - and Tax-Advantaged Investments - on Your Side If you’re relatively young, and you’ve been investing only a few years, you possess an asset that is invaluable and cannot be replaced: time. And the more time you spend contributing to tax-advantaged investments, the better off you may be. As an investor, time is your ally for two reasons. First, the more time you give to your growthoriented investments, the greater their growth potential. And second, the effects of market volatility have tended to decrease over time, though as you no doubt have heard, past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Clearly, it pays to put time on your side. And when you’re investing in tax-advantaged vehicles, time becomes an even more critical component of investment success, especially when you are young and have several decades ahead of you

before you retire. Suppose, for example, that you put $200 per month into an investment on which you paid taxes every year. If you earned a hypothetical 7% return on this investment, you’d end up with about $324,000 after 40 years. But if you put that same $200 per month into a taxdeferred investment, such as a traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA), and you earned that same 7% return, you’d wind up with about $513,000 after 40 years. Of course, once you starting taking withdrawals, presumably when you’re retired, you’ll have to pay taxes on your earnings, so your after-tax accumulation would be about $385,000, assuming you took your IRA in a lump sum (which most people don’t) and also assuming you were in the 25% tax bracket. However, by the time you retire, you may be in a lower

bracket. Plus, you have some control over how much you withdraw each year, so you may be able to affect the taxes you’ll pay. Furthermore, depending on your income level, your contributions to a traditional IRA may be tax-deductible in the years in which you make the contributions. (Keep in mind that this hypothetical example is for illustrative purposes only and does not represent a specific investment or investment strategy.) While tax deferral is obviously a nice feature for an investment, taxfree may be even better. If you meet the income requirements, you might want to consider investing in a Roth IRA, which provides taxfree earnings withdrawals, provided you’ve held your account for at least five years and you don’t start taking withdrawals until you’re at least age 59½. This means that, in the above example, you’d have

accumulated that same $513,000 — but you won’t have to pay taxes on your withdrawals. Generally speaking, the Roth IRA may make more financial sense for those who are eligible, but if you think you’ll be in a lower tax bracket when you retire, and your income level permits you to deduct some of your contributions, you may want to consider a traditional IRA. Consult with your tax advisor for guidance on the most appropriate approach for your situation. When it comes to building resources for retirement, it’s almost impossible to save and invest “too much.” So take full advantage of both time and taxadvantaged investments. By putting these investments to work for you, and by keeping them at work, you’ll be putting time on your side as you work toward your financial goals.

Clearly, it pays to put time on your side. And when you’re investing in tax-advantaged vehicles, time becomes an even more critical component of investment success.

Feeling like you

paid too much in taxes this year?

This year, evaluate whether you can benefit from: 1. Tax-advantaged investments. If appropriate, consider tax-free municipal bonds to provide federally tax-free income.*

Financial Advisor Gerry Simon 130 Eagle Spring Court, Ste. B Stockbridge, GA 30281 (770) 389-8912

Financial Advisor Logan Lowrey 2141 Hwy 155 N McDonough, GA 30252 (678) 583-5090

Financial Advisor Jeremy Lange 102A Woolsey Road Hampton, GA 30228 (770) 707-2390

2. Tax-advantaged retirement accounts. Consider contributing to a traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or 401(k) to help lower your taxable income. 3. Tax-advantaged college savings ac-

Financial Advisor John H. Dorminy 190 Turner Street McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 957-0250

counts. Contribute or gift to a college savings plan for your children or grandchildren. *May be subject to state and local taxes and the alternative minimum tax (AMT). Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors are not estate planners and cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult with a qualified tax specialist or legal advisor for professional advice on your situation.

Financial Advisor Financial Advisor Financial Advisor Financial Advisor Financial Advisor Financial Advisor David E. Shofman David R. Dodd Jr. Vanessa Conwell Paul D. Rippa Daniel Cash Lin Watts 5487 N. Henry Blvd. Publix Shopping Center 305 Olde Towne Way 5487 North Henry Blvd. Ingles Shopping Ctr. 220 Jonesboro Road 220 Jonesboro Road Stockbridge, GA 30281 4998 Bill Gardner Pkwy McDonough, GA 30253 McDonough, GA 30252 Stockbridge, GA 30281 (770) 506-1994 McDonough, GA 30253 Locust Grove, GA 30248 (770) 506-1994 (770) 898-1735 (678) 583-1325 (770) 898-1735 (678) 583-5079

www.edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

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Injuries and illnesses are never convenient. That’s why the Piedmont Outpatient Center Urgent Care is ready to see you at your convenience, no appointment is ever necessary. Below are just some of the things that we can help you with... Injuries • Fractures, sprains and strains • Lacerations (cuts), abrasions (scrapes) and splinters • Wound repair and abscess drainage

Ilnesses • Colds, flu and other viral illnesses • Ear, throat and sinus infections • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration • Urinary Tract Infection

Other Medical Needs • Sports physicals • Flu shots and other immunizations • School physicals On-site Lab Services