a he n ry c o u n ty chamber o f c o mmerce publicati o n
DECEMBER
2012
H ampt o n
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L o cust
G r o v e
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YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS
M c D o n o ugh
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S t o c k bridge
in this issue Chairman’s Message
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Business Profile
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Calendar 4 It’s Happening in Henry
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The Undead Dash Report 6 Youth Leadership Henry
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Chamber Briefs 7 Leadership Henry Annual Chamber Banquet
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Member Appreciation 10 Monthly BBL
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Business After Hours
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Shop Local
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Ribbons Cuttings
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Edward Jones
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s g n i t e e r Holiday G
from the Henry County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Committee Chairs and Staff 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.
SAVE THE DATES... SATURDAY, DEC 1
www.henrycounty.com
Shop Local, Shop Henry Day
Chamber’s 46th Annual Banquet
December 1 • Page 13
February 2 • Page 10
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Chairman’s Message Danny Brown
Holding the Scissors Has Been As Important As Holding The Gavel One of the most personally meaningful duties that I was allowed to perform as your Chamber Chairman this year was to attend and participate in what on the surface appears to be mundane photo opportunities -- ribbon cutting ceremonies for newly formed businesses in Henry County. However, below the surface of a few people gathered at a storefront, dressed in suits and smiling for the camera with scissors poised, lie the hopes and dreams of new entrepreneurs, eager to take on the titles of “Business Owner,” “Job Creator” and “Civic Leader.” Most of us have been there, and we know that accompanying the optimism of contributing to Henry County’s future and our own prosperity come the fear of failure, the challenge of differentiating our endeavor’s services and the knowledge that only through weeks and months of tireless labor will we achieve success. With every scissor snip, a dream is officially launched. And over the course of the past year, I’ve been witness to a number of those dreams taking flight. (Ambassadors of the Chamber have participated in many more than me.) The hard work of new business owners plays the most important role in keeping the aspiration aloft. But I believe that we, as col-
leagues, and the Chamber as an organization, can play a role in helping a new business achieve success. We can be patrons, unofficial advisors and mentors to new owners. The Chamber can provide support materials, contacts and guidance that may not otherwise be available to someone just starting out. That’s what community does and that’s what our Chamber is really all about. Serving as your Chairman this year has given me a different perspective on business opportunities here in Henry and I like what I see. We are fortunate to have an extremely active Chamber with members who give inordinate amounts of time and talents to grow and improve our business environment. We have dedicated public servants who work closely with business leaders to keep the
wheels turning, the rails greased and our economic engine fueled. As I’ve said before in this column, our educational system and healthcare industry are the envy of many of Georgia’s other counties. And our small business owners are intelligent, driven to make a difference and downright insistent that their work will make a difference in Henry County’s future. You have given me the privilege of serving alongside you and I think we have made great strides in moving our area forward. Thank you for your advice, ideas, leadership, hard work and support. With that continued effort, this Chamber is well-positioned to continue to be a leader in economic expansion, job creation and a rosy business outlook in the future. Thanks to the Committee Chairs and membership of those committees for generating ideas and then working to bring them to reality. Finally, thank you to the Chamber staff which has made this year fly by with ease. I leave the Chamber’s Chair in great hands. Please give Eddie Ausband the same level of support you’ve given me and there’s no way the Chamber’s mission can fail. Eddie, here’s the gavel, but as important, here are my scissors. Go forth and keep snipping those ribbons. Thanks to all of you for the privilege of serving.
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 Clean Slate Services, LLC
About the Company John Rowan, a graduate of Georgia State University, worked in the air express industry for twenty-eight years. In 2008 he formed Clean Slate Services, LLC in Henry County, where his roots go deep. “From an economic standpoint it wasn’t the best time to start a company,” says John. “However, I’m happy to say that we’ve grown each year to date and have retained a steady customer base because of our attention to detail and quality of services.” The mission of this company is to provide competitive pricing by managing the efficiencies of the process while exceeding the expectation of customers. Inspiring long-term relationships simply does not happen without dedication to the customer. A hallmark of the organization is that Clean Slate strives to clean through the eyes of its customers. In viewing each customer as a business partner, the goal
of creating and ensuring a quality image for that customer becomes a touchpoint of mutual business consideration. Clean Slate employees are proud to walk into your building and are just as proud when leaving the building after their job is complete. The company is certified by the State of Georgia as a drugfree organization. Customers tend to be located in Henry, Clayton and Spalding Counties and center around the routine cleaning of office buildings, medical offices, banks, law firms, churches, and restaurants. The company also contracts with realtors for one-time cleanings of properties. Other services such as carpet, windows and tile and grout cleaning are also available. John demonstrates his successful ability to transfer his skillsets from providing quality air express delivery service and process management
to anticipating and providing exceptional customer support and forging partnerships. Community Support John serves as a member of the Small Business Council with the Henry County Chamber of Commerce as a means of networking with other small business owners and to promote advocacy for small businesses. Chamber Involvement “The Henry County Chamber of Commerce assists me to market my business -- and often to a target audience that I might not otherwise reach” says John. “I find the Chamber to be both responsive and helpful in every respect.” For more information about this company: (404) 918-6286 Email: john@cleanslateservicesllc.com www.cleanslateservicesllc.com
Is Great Customer Service A Part of Your Strategy? Do you have satisfied customers who you see or hear from faithfully every month? Or do you have ecstatic customers who like you on social media and are your brand evangelists? Great customer service is no longer a competitive advantage: it’s what your customers expect. Satisfied customers may not promote you to friends or refer them to your business, but ecstatic customers talk about you, promote you, and tattoo your brand on their arm (i.e. Harley-Davidson). Satisfied (static) customers are more sensitive to changes in price, may not be faithful, and are less likely to boast about their experience with your brand. Ecstatic customers are impressed with your brand and your commitment to them. Ecstatic customers are less price sensitive and will often pay more for your product/service because they feel there is a true value to your relationship. Every
business needs ecstatic customers-but how do you change your business practices to make your customers ecstatic? • Consistently surprise your customers with your friendly, happy-to-help attitude • Immediately respond to customer complaints with little fuss and no excuses (back to the happyto-help attitude) • See your customers as a relationship materather than just another sales transaction To improve your bottom line, improve your front line: your front-line employees who deal directly with customers, answer the phone, and attend to customer complaints. Praise these employees for solving customers’ problems and let them see you setting a great example. Ongoing customer relationship training for your employees will go a long way, too. Always remember that happy employees lead to happy customers! Ecstatic customers will go the extra mile for your business-why not give every satisfied customer a reason to become ecstatic?
John R. Rowan, President
By Heather Chaney, Clayton State University Small Business Development Center
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DECEMBER 2012 Sunday
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“Starting A Business” class, HR , 5 – 8 PM 3 PM Ed Foundation, Bd Rm
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8 AM Youth Leadership Henry, Bd Rm
8 AM Leadership Henry BOD, Bd Rm Chamber’s Holiday Party, 5-7 pm at Holiday Inn & Suites-Stockbridge
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3:30 PM Media Relations, Bd Rm
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Chamber Staff Kay Pippin, President Laura Luker, Director of Tourism Diane Ide, Director of Communications Gary Sparrow, Membership Director 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
Happy Holidays 25 Chamber closed
7:30 AM HCCC BOD Noon, Ambassadors Luncheon
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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, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta June Wood, Georgia Power
10 AM Small Business Council, Bd Rm
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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 Denise Sowell, Capitol Street Financial Services CLASS OF 2014 James Chafin, Judge, Henry County State Court Lisa Hunter, Owner/Editor, So. Journal 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 Michelle Nunnally, Leadership Henry Jake Carter, Chair Appointee Peto Fallas, Chair Appointee Gerald Hudgins, Chair Appointee
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Comfortably South of Atlanta Courthouse Square Market Every Sat. • 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Downtown McDonough
Support your local farmers, craftsmen, businesses and civic groups while enjoying all the wonderful items at the Courthouse Square Market - enjoy local produce, organic fruits and vegetables, handcrafted items, plants, baked goods and more! For complete details, visit www.marketmcdonough.com or call Sally at 770.595.5452.
Gift of Lights Nov 18 – Jan 6 • Atlanta Motor Speedway
it’s happening in Henry
own community, you actually help to improve the local economy. With so many of our cities celebrating holiday festivals and tree lightings on Saturday, December 1 it is the perfect day to stay in Henry County and shop and to enjoy the festivities near home! Check the Shop Local Shop Henry Facebook page or the Chamber website, www.henrycounty.com/pages/ Families can make holiday ShopLocalShopHenry/ for special memories as they choose and discounts that day. cut their own tree, and pick out live wreaths and garland Christmas…in The Grove while enjoying free apple cider December 1 - 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. and candy canes. Hayrides and Downtown Historic Locust Grove Christmas tours are available on the weekends. Farm tours are Christmas parade, craft vendors, also available weekday mornings puppet show, inflatables, stage from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. For performances, music, and more. more information visit www. Arm bands are $2 and gives children entry to all attractions as aboutyule.com. many times as they like.
Old Fashioned Christmas Thru December 16 Southern Belle Farm
Cookie Decorating & Gingerbread Houses December 1 – 9:00 a.m. - Noon Downtown Hampton
baked goods, arts, crafts and more from local vendors. Join us for this annual event. Shop locally in small businesses this year.
Holiday Ride in the Hampton December 1 Ray’s House – 29 East Main St.
Take a brisk bicycle ride 5, 33, 50, or 72 miles. Benefits Connecting Henry and Community Cares Toy Shop. More information: Charlotte Kuehn, kuehn@ bellsouth.net
7th Annual Santa Cruise for Toys for Tots December 1 – Noon – 4:00 p.m. Summit Racing
including decorating a Christmas tree, sipping hot apple cider and listening to Christmas carols. Bring the whole family for a fun time on the farm this winter. Enjoy hot apple cider, home-baked goodies, and take home a pre-cut Christmas tree to start the holiday decorating! Check our website for hours and details www.SouthernBelleFarm. com.
Rusty Wallace Racing Experience December 1-2 Cut Your Own Christmas Tree & Tour Atlanta Motor Speedway Thru December 22 -9:00 a.m. – Dark For more information visit www. racewithrusty.com or call (855) Yule Forest Hwy. 155
with Mrs Clause and the Gingerbread Contest! This City sponsored event is fun for youngsters decorating cookies and having pictures made with Mrs. Claus! The Gingerbread House contest is open to all ages. No entry fee. Bring your gingerbread house in Friday or Saturday morning by 9 am. Ribbons to all participants.
Holiday Market December 1 - 9:00 a.m. – Noon Hampton Depot
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Shop Local, Shop Henry Saturday, December 1
When you spend your shopping dollars locally, you not only support the businesses in your Visit the Train Depot to find
Celebrate the Christmas Season with the McDonough Christmas Parade! Enjoy as creative floats travel around the downtown McDonough Square throwing candy and wishing Happy Holiday’s to crowd! For complete details, contact 770.957.3915.
Downtown Hampton
The parade begins at Hampton Elementary School. Enjoy Santa and live reindeer, and snow gently falling on the streets of Hampton. Merchants will be open until 9:00 p.m., handing out goodies to the visitors. This is a HBMA sponsored event. Be introduced to Hampton Idol 2012 by a special selection of holidays songs. For parade information Are you ready to tell Santa please call 678-758-0606. what you want for Christmas? Christmas Tree Lighting Santa Clause will be ready and waiting to hear everything on December 6 – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. your Christmas list! For complete Piedmont Henry’s South Tower Lawn details, contact 770.898.9311.
Christmas Tree Lighting December 1 - 5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Downtown McDonough Square
It’s not Christmas until you have witnessed, first hand, the tree lighting on the historic, downtown McDonough Square. Fun for the entire family! For complete details, contact 770.957.3915.
Belle Farm and music provided by local choirs including Piedmont Henry’s Employee Choir.
Photos with Santa Through Dec 23 – Varies Grandbaby Treasures (Tanger)
Bring your child for a photo with Santa! Call to schedule your appointment as times and dates vary.
Legends Racing: Winter Flurry Week Two December 8 Atlanta Motor Speedway
Christmas with the Arts December 2 – 3:00 p.m. Henry County Performing Arts Center
Join us for Christmas with the Arts - An afternoon of Music, Dance, Theatre and Art. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased online at www.henryartsalliance. Open to all cars, trucks, and org/ChristmaswiththeArts or at motorcycles. 50-25-25 raffle. the door. Registration: $10 or a new, unwrapped toy. For complete Christmas at Home & Parade details, contact 770.288.3200. December 6
Santa Saturday’s December 1 & 8 When some think about an 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Atlanta Motor Speedway will be lit old-fashioned Christmas -- Celebrate the holidays in Downtown McDonough Square up once again this holiday season they think about traditions, Hampton with cookie decorating with the return of the Gift of Lights. The most affordable lights display in the metro Atlanta area, the Gift of Lights will be a nightly drive-through event, with over one million LED lights in hundreds of displays. Display hours will be from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Admission will be $15 per car Sunday through Thursday and $20 per car Friday and Saturday. For more information, visit www. atlantagiftoflights.com
McDonough Christmas Parade December 1 – 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Downtown McDonough
Piedmont Henry Hospital presents its 10th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting. Take in the spirit of the holiday season as you enjoy refreshments, hayrides with Santa courtesy of Southern
NASCAR’s stars of tomorrow battle for short-track supremacy on Atlanta Motor Speedway’s “Thunder Ring,” the facility’s front-stretch, quarter-mile oval track. Each event features multiple classes of Legends and Bandolero 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.
Atlanta Audubon Society Bird Walk December 9, 2012 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Panola Mountain State Park
Bring your binoculars for this gentle hike through the park’s Power of Flight area. Basic identification techniques and common birds will be discussed. Good for all ages. We recommend long pants and sleeves. Meet at the Alexander Lake Area. Register Continues on page 6.
6 in advance. Donations of birdseed are appreciated. $5 parking. 770389-7801.
“The Nutcracker” presented by The Atlanta Festival Ballet December 15 – 7:00 p.m. & December 16 – 2:00 p.m. Henry County Performing Arts Center
The magic of “The Nutcracker” captivates audiences of all ages. A mysterious party guest, a heroic prince and the “Land of the Sweets” come to life in Atlanta Festival Ballet’s delightful holiday classic. Visit www. atlantafestivalballet.com for more information.
Tree Top Excursions: Introduction Climb December 15 – 1:00 p.m. Panola Mountain State Park
Join us “on rope” for an adventure exploring the canopy above. Participants will use rope and harness for this moderately strenuous activity. One group will start at 1 PM; another group will start at 3 PM. Please arrive 15 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $15 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.
Truett’s Grill New Year’s Eve Nugget Drop December 31 – 7:00 p.m. – Midnight Truett’s Grill – McDonough
Truett’s Grill is again hosting a family-friendly alternative to the typical New Year’s celebration. The highlight of the evening will be during the New Year’s Eve countdown when a giant nugget is dropped into faux honey mustard to ring in 2013. In addition to the Nugget Drop, the restaurant will host a variety of fun-filled, free activities for all ages. At the stroke of midnight Truett’s will throw their infamous Chick-fil-A Cows with one “special” cow and that “special” cow comes with FREE Chick-fil-A for a year!!
HenryCounty.com
All’s Fair in Love and a Zombie Apocalypse More than 125 “Living” participants navigated the twisting, wooded trails of Camp Fortson trying to avoid the 25 brain-hungry, sticker brandishing zombies during the Undead Dash – A Zombie Fun Run. Loyalty was tested and cutthroat survival strategies developed as groups of runners sacrificed one of their own for safe passage through the zombie infested woods leaving their “bitten” comrades to fend for themselves. Although the “Undead” hordes were sneaky and quick, a few lucky runners did escape unbitten. Andre Rivera and Taylor Sharp finished in the best time AND avoided even a single bite. Others, like Mylie Markum weren’t so lucky, as she received the “Biggest Loser” award for the
most bites finishing with 23 stickers. There was motivation to run fast and be alert as truly terrifying creatures roamed the woods thanks to the make-up prowess of The Henry Players who provided make-overs to all the “Undead.” Those whose transformations were most frightening were Brandon Jessup and Sheila McEntryre whose make-up and costumes earned them the dubious distinction of “Best Zombie.” All winners received two tickets to Atlanta Movie Tours’ “Big Zombie Tour” expect for Ms. Markum, the Biggest Loser who received a stack of zombie reading material so she can be better prepared for next year! After the run, all was forgiven and the Living, the Undead and the sacrificial lambs gathered together to enjoy Gezzo’s tacos and JailHouse Brewing Company beer before settling in to watch Zombieland. The filming of Zombieland, parts of which took place in Hampton, was followed recently by the shooting of several episodes of The Walking
Dead along the same roadways triggered the idea for the event. Henry County, particularly Hampton, has been the site of at least four film and television projects in the last several years. “The Undead Dash was a unique way to draw people to Henry County while also educating them on the county’s role in recent productions,” said Julie Hoover-Ernst, Chairman of the CVB. “With running events growing in popularity and the current zombie craze it seemed like a natural pairing.” Look for details for next year’s event soon! Photos from the event can be viewed at www.facebook. com/VisitHenryCountyGeorgia.
Youth Leadership Henry Class of 2013 Gets Started Youth Leadership Henry’s sixteenth class had its Orientation reception in the Hudgins Room at the Chamber of Commerce on the evening of October 23. Class members and their parents met the members of the Board of Directors, learned about the program, and enjoyed remarks by Henry County lawyer, and recently elected Representative Brian Strickland, about leadership and community. On November 6, the class had its first outing at Camp Fortson – a Teambuilding Day; giving them an opportunity to network and build rapport with students from other schools in the community. The class had a great time, learning about each other (and themselves) as they pushed their personal boundaries in a variety of indoor and outdoor activities.
Youth Leadership Henry is a program of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce, offering select high school sophomores from Henry County an opportunity to develop leadership skills and acquaint participants with community needs, problems and resources; similar to the Chamber’s adult Leadership Henry program. The intent of the youth program is to identify and develop future leaders at an earlier stage in life. YLH allows students to interact with community leaders in examining a variety of issues affecting Henry County. Participants gain insight into complex decision making processes essential in addressing community issues, and they learn about the cultural and economic opportunities available within
our community. Participants commit to one day each month for the eight months of the program. Each year approximately 40 students are selected by the YLH Board of Directors; whose selections committee diligently reviews candidates’ goals, community participation, leadership roles etc. This year there were 134 applicants vying for the available seats in the 2013 class, indicating the value placed on the program by both the students and leaders in the community. Join us in welcoming the Youth Leadership Henry class of 2013: Tiffani Allen – Woodland Yailee Bangura – Woodland Skylar Bates – Locust Grove Viyanca Bennett – Woodland Emily Carmichael – Ola
Caroline Chamberlain – Woodland Daria Chryssochoos – Union Grove Alexander Coughlin – Union Grove Annelise Cox – Impact Academy Kendra Crosby – Woodland Drayton DeWitt – Woodland Sonjai Douglas – Woodland Taylor Duty – Union Grove Destiny Ettang – Luella Rachel Maner – Union Grove Jordan Gainey – Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy Vianca Gonzalez – Union Grove Mason Goolsby – Woodland Savannah Hardeman – Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy Landon Harper – Union Grove Myles Harris – Dutchtown Hannah Hatcher – Woodland Morgan Hodge – Stockbridge
Brooke Jones – Union Grove Skylar Kearney – Woodland Whitney Lehrer – Union Grove Jillian Lesley – Woodland Jordan Madison – Eagles Landing High School Rachel Maner – Woodland Ibukunoluwa Olaoye – Woodland Salina Patel – Ola Georgiana Pennell – Ola Jeffrey Pope – Ola Madison Rivers – Woodland Mark Rockwood – Luella Savannah Sewell – Woodland Charles Sims – Ola Breck Small – Ola Amber Smith – Woodland Jocelyn Smith – Woodland Jazmyne Terrell – Community Christian
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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December Chamber Briefs ... Congratulations to: Bennett International Group for their recognition at the 2012 Georgia Family Business of the Year Awards ceremony held November 14 in Atlanta for being a company with a strong commitment to both family and business, with demonstrated positive family/business linkage, multigenerational involvement, contributions to their industry and community, and innovative business practices and strategy. Shown are HCCC Chairman Danny Brown and Marcia Taylor, President & CEO of Bennett International Group, LLC.
Jay Connelly, RN, BSN, on being named as the new director of Piedmont Henry Hospital’s emergency department. Connelly began his career in healthcare 20 years ago, working in rehabilitation medicine before moving into emergency care. He has a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Clayton State University and is a member of the Emergency Nursing Association. He joined the Piedmont Henry team two years ago. Henry County Water & Sewerage Authority for providing “hands-on” learning experiences at their Cubihatcha facility to more than 3,000 third-grade students via an Outdoor Education Partnership with Henry County Schools – and for cleaning up 800 pounds of debris from the banks of the Indian Creek River and Garner Reservoir during their 2012 Rivers Alive program.
Leadership Henry Class shows support in PINK Members of the 2013 Leadership Henry class were all in PINK in support of Piedmont Henry’s Real Men Wear Pink campaign during the programs’ Local Government Day held in October. County Manager Fred Auletta welcomed the class to the Henry County Administration Building and provided a county overview. Members of the class participated in roundtable discussions with local community leaders and topics included public works, planning and zoning, taxes and parks and recreation. The Leadership Henry class spent the afternoon at the Judicial Center where Henry County Solicitor, Trea Pipkin, gave the class an overview of the court system. The day ended with a tour of the Judicial Center.
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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!
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Ethan Hildreth Superintendent 770-957-6601 770-914-6178 FAX
R. W. Coley
ethan.hildreth@henry.k12.ga.us
Mayor
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 75 FIFTH STREET NW, SUITE 175 ATLANTA, GA 30308 ECONDEVGA@SOUTHERNCO.COM WWW.SELECTGEORGIA.NET
City of McDonough
Henry County Chamber of Commerce
Billy Copeland, Mayor
Convention & Visitors Bureau
770-957-3915
1709 Highway 20 West Westridge Business Center McDonough, GA 30253
770-957-5786
P.O. Box 400 17 East Main Street South Hampton, Georgia 30228
City Hall: 770.946.4306 Fax: 770.946. 4356
22 N. Zack Hinton Parkway McDonough, Georgia 30253
Henry County’s choice for
Eddie Ausband, CFP 4920 N. Henry Blvd Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: 770-507-401K 770-389-9060 x 102 eausband@revanta.com
OF CLAYTON COUNTY OF DECATUR OF HENRY & SPALDING COUNTIES
FIRE & WATER- CLEANUP & RESTORATION 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE
Danny Brown General Manager 934 DAILEY MILL ROAD McDONOUGH, GA 30253 dbrown@servpro8537.com
(770) 997-5689 (404) 378-9998 (678) 432-3003 FAX: (770) 914-1078
Nationally Known - Locally Owned
City of Stockbridge Lee Stuart, Mayor
SouthernJournalMag.com
770-775-7857 www.cgemc.com
770-389-7910
Companion Care Cremation Services
910 Dailey Mill Road McDonough, GA 30253
770-692-3819 Greg Cannon owner
“Lillie”
www.companioncarega.com
Every LIFE has a story. Celebrate it! McDonough
865 Hwy.20/81 West McDonough, GA 30253
770-898-1988
StockbriDge
850 Eagles Lndg. Pkwy. Stockbridge, GA 30281
770-507-5855
770-946-8088 Nail-Air.com
LocuSt grove
4870 Bill Gardner Pkwy. Locust Grove, HA 30248
Greg Cannon
770-288-3500
770-914-1414
www.cannonclevelandfunerals.com
Henry County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Proudly Serving Henry County
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Chamber Annual Banquet is February 2
The Chamber’s 46th Annual Meeting/Dinner will be held at the Eagle’s Landing Country Club on Saturday, February 2, 2013 at 7:00 pm. Donna Hyland, President & CEO of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, is the keynote speaker. For 25
years, Mrs. Hyland has helped shape the delivery of healthcare to children in Georgia and beyond. In 2007, realizing that Georgia’s pediatric population was significantly growing, she led the development of the Children’s Vision 2018 Strategy, which defines the organization’s journey to achieve clinical excellence by focusing on three areas: research, teaching and wellness. For all her work in pediatric healthcare, Hyland was named Georgia Trend magazine’s Most Respected Business Leader in 2011 and one of Business to Business magazine’s 2007 Women of Excellence. Hyland has the distinct honor of being the only female CEO among the top 25 hospitals in Atlanta, making her a role model for women throughout Children’s and the state. Henry County native, Charity Brooke Smith, an accomplished international performer, will entertain guests cabaret-style. Ms. Smith received her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Columbus State University in Columbus, GA in 2005. Since that time she has toured the country with Missoula Children’s Theatre, worked for Walt Disney World and most recently completed a four-year contract playing the role of “Elphaba” in Wicked at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka. Charity now resides in Orlando, FL with her sweetheart, Michael, and continues to pursue her love of performing
The Chamber Appreciates Its Members The Henry County Chamber of Commerce held its 2nd Annual Membership Appreciation Luncheon on Halloween at the Chamber. The wind and the chill were challenging for the 150 members who attended; however, the camaraderie and costumes were worth it all. The Original Shane’s Rib Shack provided delicious complimentary barbecue
fitting the occasion. Over thirty “guys and ghouls” dressed in Halloween attire and “secret” judges selected the top three costumes. A $50 VISA gift card (provided by ServiceMaster of McDonough) went to third place winner, Luke Hearn with State Farm, for his “Fifty Shades of Grey” outfit. A second place $75 VISA gift card (provided
by Nail Heating and Air Conditioning) was awarded to Christy Smith with Neighbor Newspapers for her ragdoll costume. The first place $100 VISA gift card (provided by Heritage Bank at Hwy 20/81) was presented to Heidi Sewell with Merle Manders Conference Center for her zombie prisoner costume. Honorable mention goes to all the others, including an
and traveling. Presenting Sponsor for the banquet is Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Tickets are $125 per person and tables of ten can be accommodated. The ticket order form is available on the Chamber website at www.henrycounty.com/ pages/2013HCCCAnnualBanquet, or you can contact Diane Ide at 770-957-5786 to purchase tickets. The deadline for purchasing tickets is Friday, January 11, 2013. Nominate 2012 Award Winners Recognize community leaders for their exemplary service, devotion to others or contribution to improving quality of life by nominating them for Business of the Year; The Billy Carter Public Service Award, Volunteer of the Year or Citizen of the Year. The criteria for each award, nomination form and a listing of past winners are available on the Chamber website at www.henrycounty.com/pages/2013HCCCAnnualBanquet. Deadline for nominations is Friday, December 28, 2012. Don’t delay – nominate someone today!
unrecognizable Chamber hostess, Kay Pippin! “This is such a fun event” said Rhett Tucker with Checks Superstore. “It’s a great way to enjoy Halloween and network with fellow Chamber members in an outlandish way!” Several Chamber members won great door prizes ranging from goody bags to gift certificates, and a beautiful dish garden. While Chamber events always provide excellent networking opportunity, this particular event affords the Chamber an opportunity to say “THANK YOU” to those who belong to the Chamber and who work to make it a strong and integral part of our community.
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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business
Boosters luncheon
January Business Boosters Luncheon
October BBL ... About Online Marketing Attendees at the October 18 Business Boosters Luncheon were treated to a sneak peak into the $59 four-hour class offered by Clayton State University’s Small Business Development Center. “Links, Likes & Friends: Get Started with Online Marketing” in a course that the CSU’s SBDC presented at the Chamber on November 9 that went into greater depth regarding website advice, Facebook usage and search engine optimization. Alisa Kirk presented tips and advice on ways small businesses can design and use their website, Facebook page and blogs that can increase their marketing potential. She challenged attendees to revise their thinking by seeing online marketing as not about YOU – but about THEM. What do they (potential customers) want? How do they
want it? When do they want it? THEY want information – and if your website, Facebook page and/or blog isn’t providing it (and in an easy-to-find manner), they leave! Who are THEY? Alisa encouraged participants to think about who their target market really is. She also asked what is it that YOU most want THEM to see or do when they reach your site? Why is that the most important thing to convey? Does your front page give THEM what THEY want? She insists that content is king now. She conveyed the importance of keywords and having them on each page of content. Alisa offered tips for increasing your Google potential and how to ensure that the information your customer seeks gets “above the fold.”
The CSU’s SBDC offers free website analysis for small businesses – and she encouraged attendees to take advantage of their services. She talked about changing trends, such as Facebook pages becoming more important than a website, the need for optimization. She advised that you “Like” other businesses because YOU want to see THEIR information (and then all YOUR friends will see that you’ve “Liked” them). She suggested considering telling a story or making a game and providing a reward to entice others to “Like” you. Today it’s all about network marketing!
Where Are The Growth Ignitors? January 17, 2013 • HCCC Hudgins Room • 11am – 1pm Dr. Rajeev Dhawan is a professor and Director of the Economic Forecasting Center at the Robinson College of Business at Georgia State University in Atlanta. As director of one of the country’s premier forecasting centers, Dr. Dhawan develops forecasts for Southeast regional and local metro Atlanta economies. These forecasts are routinely published and presented to business executives and the media at the center’s popular, well-respected quarterly forecasting conferences. At the January Business Boosters Luncheon find out more about: • The political landscape post-election and its impact on job growth in the coming years • Interlinkages between the global and the local metro economy Dr. Dhawan’s academic research analyzes U.S. business cycles with a special emphasis on the impact of monetary policy changes on the growth and survival of small firms. His industrial organization work quantifies the contribution of organizational and technological factors in improving firm efficiency. His other areas of specialization include small business strategy and entrepreneurship, energy economics and econometric modeling. The cost for this catered lunch is $12 for Chamber members and $20 for non-members. Reservations are required for planning purposes and Chamber members can make reservations and pay online at www.henrycounty.com under “Events” – select the BBL event on January 17. Guests and non-members can RSVP by calling (770) 957-5786 or email preeves@henrycounty. com. To cover catering costs, no-shows will be expected to make payment.
Alisa Kirk presented tips and advice on ways small businesses can design and use their website, Facebook page and blogs that can increase their marketing potential.
Chamber President, Kay Pippin, a member of the Piedmont Henry Hospital Board of Directors and participant in the process resulting in the selection of Piedmont Healthcare, celebrated with Piedmont officials at Eagle’s Landing Country Club on November 7 when Piedmont Henry Hospital was recognized as the “2012 Person of the Year” by Southern Journal Magazine. Photo – L to R: Governor Nathan Deal; Kay Pippin, HCCC President; Greg Hurst, Piedmont Healthcare’s President of Finance and Development and interim CEO; Mrs. Deal
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business AFTER HOURS
Business After Hours at Piedmont Henry Hospital Was A “Real Men Wear Pink” Party Piedmont Henry Hospital hosted the October Business After Hours in style, concluding a month-long recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and their “Real Men Wear Pink” campaign that emphasizes that breast cancer is an important issue for everyone. Over fifty Chamber attendees enjoyed delicious hors d’ouvres while networking with hospital staff and guests. Piedmont Henry Hospital CEO, Charlie Scott, welcomed
guests and participated in selecting lucky winner, Deborah Sheneman with Henry Radiology Oncology Center, as the winner of a baseball autographed by Atlanta Braves Jason Heyward. Several Chamber businesses provided a number of great door prizes that were also presented. Names drawn for the $300 Chamber jackpot were: John Warner, Tammy Flowers, and Keisha Harris. Since they were not present to win, the jackpot now goes to $350.
Henry County Chamber of Commerce presents…
Exciting Travel Opportunities For 2013 British Landscapes
featuring England, Scotland and Wales 10 Days – 13 Meals March 14 – 23, 2013 Highlights... London, London Theatre Performance, Cambridge, York, Edinburgh Castle, Lake District, North Wales, Stratford-upon-Avon, Bath, Stonehenge
Double $3299*
Discover the French Riviera
9 Days – 11 Meals November 7 – 15, 2013 Highlights... Nice, Flower Market, St. Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Rothschild Villa and Gardens, Antibes, St. Paul De Vence, Monaco, Fréjus, Roman Arena, Grasse, Parfumerie
Double $2999*
Book Now & Save $250 per person Other travel opportunities include… South Pacific Wonders 15 Days, 21 Meals Wonders of South America 11 Days, 15 Meals
The Plains of Africa 14 Days, 33 Meals Best of China 14 Days, 26 Meals
Call for available departure dates and rates.
For more information call Kay Pippin at 770.957.5786 There is no December Business After Hours Due to the Holidays. Join us January 24, 2013 at C&C Fence Company for the first BAH of the New Year!
*Rate is per person and includes round trip air Hartsville Intl Airport, air taxes and fees and hotel transfers. Discover the French Riviera: Book now savings valid until May 7, 2013 and the early booking savings is included in the rate. Airfare: For your convenience, we offer airfare for purchase with all vacation packages. If you purchase an air inclusive program, your airfare will be quoted inclusive of all fuel, taxes and fees. Your rates are subject to change until paid in full. Seats are limited and may not be available on every flight or departure date. Checked Baggage Charges: Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline’s checked baggage policies. CST# 2006766-20 UBN# 601220855 Nevada Seller of Travel Registration No. 2003-0279
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Why Tourism Matters
December 1, 2012 Shop Local, Shop Henry Day! Businesses throughout Henry County are invited to participate in Shop Local, Shop Henry Day on December 1. This is a program sponsored by the Henry County Chamber of Commerce to support local businesses by driving customers to their site on a specific day. It is also a great opportunity to educate residents on the benefits they can receive from shopping locally and thereby supporting business development and the local economy. To participate in the Shop Local campaign: Provide an incentive – Want to help to ensure that customers visit YOUR business on December 1? Post a discount for a product or service or free item on the Henry County Chamber of Commerce Facebook page. Be sure to indicate that the discount or offer is good for December 1 only, if applicable. Make it a special discount, perhaps one that is a bit more significant, or offers a free item, a sample or a generous discount – since it’s only for the one day! Promote your participation – post the Shop Local, Shop Henry flyer prominently at your place of business. To download the flyer, visit www. henrycounty.com/pages/ShopLocalShopHenry/. Be The following article is reprinted with permission from Area Development magazine, Fall 2012: Consultants Recognize State’s Industrial Competitiveness in Area Development 3rd Annual “Top States For Doing Business Survey” Georgia Ranked 3 For Doing Business WESTBURY, N.Y., October 17, 2012 – Area Development, the leading publication covering site selection and facility planning, has announced the results of its 2012 Top States for Doing Business survey of leading location consultants. According to the results, the top-10 states for doing business are Texas, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, Louisiana, Tennessee, Indiana, Mississippi, and Oklahoma in that order. Area Development asked a select group of highly respected location consultants who work with a nationwide client base to name their top-5 state choices in 14 site selection categories, as follows: Business Environment • Overall cost of doing business • Corporate tax environment • Incentives programs • Cooperative state government • Speed of permitting • Access to capital and project funding Labor Climate • Availability of skilled labor
sure to place your discount on the Shop Local Shop Henry Facebook page as well. Chamber members can also place their discount on the Chamber’s website as a Member-to-Member discount. The Chamber and its Media Relations Committee marketed this event in multiple ways and formats and we thank the local businesses who displayed the message on their marquees, signs, and billboards. Shopping locally makes good sense – not just December 1; but year-round. The tax dollars that result assist with the services that we all enjoy every day. Why give your tax those dollars anywhere else? Shop Local, Shop Henry! • Competitive labor costs • Work force development programs Infrastructure/Global Access • Rail & highway accessibility • Certified sites and shovel-ready programs • Competitive utility rates • Distribution/logistics hub access Economy • Leading in the economic recovery States were ranked in each of the 14 categories above based on the number of times they were named as a “top5” choice by the responding consultants. Texas, which was cited more than 200 times overall, significantly led all other states as the consultants’ #1 choice for doing business. The top-5 states were each mentioned in at least 8 of 14 categories. A full review of this year’s Top States for Doing Business is presented in the Fall 2012 issue of Area Development magazine and is posted online at www.areadevelopment. com/top-states. Area Development (www.areadevelopment.com), published since 1965, is bi-monthly and has 42,000 executive subscribers. It also has produced more than 25 Best Practices Consultants Forums for economic developers since 2006. To view the article online, visit http://www. areadevelopment.com/Top-States-for-Doing-Business/ Fall2012/top-states- consultants-sur vey-2012landing-456337.shtml
BELLAMY-STRICKLAND
Chevrolet • Oldsmobile • Pontiac • GMC Trucks BELLAMY STRICKLAND I-75 5 . 15 Hwy McDonough
I-75 • Exit 216 145 Industrial Blvd. McDonough, GA
770-954-3000
The businesses and facilities that residents consider just a part of the quality of life in Henry County actually helped them save last year. While businesses such as restaurants, event facilities and recreational facilities add to the quality of life for residents, they also dramatically impact the economy of Henry County by attracting tourists. In 2011, travelers to Henry County spent more than $202 million resulting in almost $6 million in local taxes and almost $8 million in State taxes. Tourists’ expenditures increased almost $15 million from 2010. When broken down to a daily average, this amounts to more than $554,000 per day being spent by tourists. Much of the influx of these tourism dollars flows in from what for many may be an unlikely source – youth sports tournaments. While our county’s recreational facilities give local youth the opportunity to participate in a variety of athletic activities, large, out-oftown tournaments also use these same facilities bringing in an economic
impact of more than $14 million in 2012. Not only are these guests contributing to Henry County’s economy, they require little, if any, services. Tournament players, coaches and families spent money at hotels, restaurants, gas stations and retail centers, supporting the more than 2,000 local jobs provided by the tourism industry. The big question when referencing statistics is often “so what -- what do these numbers mean to me?” For Henry County residents, it means that without tourist spending, each household would have had to pay approximately $209 more in taxes in 2011 to enjoy the same level of government services. Next time your favorite restaurant is crowded with baseball teams or traffic is slow because of a race at the Speedway or a road is closed due to filming for a movie or television show don’t get frustrated. Say “Thank You” to these guests for helping keep your services high, your taxes lower and making Henry County a wonderful place to live, work and play.
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CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP Welcome to our NEW Members
October 13 TuTus and Tennis Shoes 2084 Jodeco Road McDonough, GA 30253 Contact: Keisha Harris (678) 205-9900 www.tutusandshoes.com
October 17 State Farm Insurance Agency – Luke Hearn
2343 Jonesboro Road Hampton, GA 30228 Contact: Luke Hearn (678) 432-2343 www.lukehearn.com
November 1 American Family Insurance – Tiffany Flores 18 Atlanta Street McDonough, GA 30253 Contact: Tiffany Flores (770) 305-9344 www.tiffanyflores.com
November 12 Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority
Amber Chase Apartments Donna Langer 570 McDonough Pkwy, McDonough GA 30253 (678) 432-0087 Baymont Inn & Suites Tiffany Bonilla-Everett 80 HWY 81 West, McDonough GA 30253 (757) 284-2862 E-Lizard Marketing R.J. Brown P.O. Box 2364, Griffin GA 30224 (706) 601-1739 Edward Jones Investments - Paul Rippa Paul Rippa 2141 Hwy 155 North, McDonough GA 30252 (678) 583-5090 Ferst Foundation of Henry County Patti Brown 1001 Florence McGarity Blvd, McDonough GA 30252 (678) 583-0305 Freight R Us LLC Carl Nesmith 213 Brixton Place, McDonough GA 30253 (770) 703-6215 Henry Neighbor Newspaper Cristy Smith 10 James St., Hampton GA 30228 (404) 293-3961 Lambda Sigma Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc Deborah Brown McDonough, GA 30253 (678) 463-5755 R. W. Hannah Enterprises, Inc. Dr Renata Hannah 126 Dustin Drive, Stockbridge GA 30281 770 506 1159 Service Experts Heating and Air Conditioning Christopher Hightower 1330 Farmer Rd., Conyers GA 30012 (770) 285-3571 Sizemore,Inc. Justin Patrick 234 Racetrack Rd., McDonough, GA 30253 The Seasons Bistro Sam Pagan 41 Griffin St., McDonough GA 30253 (678) 814-4995
CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP
P.O. Box 2311 Stockbridge, GA 30281 Contact: Deborah Brown (678) 463-5755 www.sgrho1922.org
Thank You to our RENEWING Members
November 15 IHOP – Locust Grove
4971 Bill Gardner Parkway Locust Grove, GA 30248 Contact: Stavros Vacratsas (678) 432-3111 www.ihop.com
ADP Small Business Services Advanced Family Eyecare of Hampton, LLC Atlanta Regional Commission Bear Creek Association, Inc. Black Tie Formal Wear, Inc. Caritas Medical Center Cherilynn Paris City Electric Supply Henry County DFCS Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites HydrauliCircuit Technology, Inc. Innovo, Inc. Architecture & Design Julie Griffin - Prudential Georgia Realty L & M Business Forms, Inc. Luxottica Retail McDonough Methodist Academy
Microtel Inn & Suites Mike Vining Heating & Air Nestle Distribution Co. New Creation Christian Academy Olympus Media Pin Strikes Entertainment Center Praying for Paws, Inc. Pro Studio, Inc. Register - Nelson, Inc. Robert Dunn Smead Manufacturing Co. Thomas Concrete of Georgia, Inc. United Community Bank - Stockbridge United Community Bank - McDonough United Community Bank - Locust Grove Western Inn
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FINANCIAL FOCUS
Don’t take a “holiday” from working toward financial goals We’re well into the holiday season now. And while the holidays are joyous, they can also be expensive. In fact, at this time of year, many people make spending decisions they end up regretting. But you can enjoy the holidays and still stay on track toward your financial goals by following a few simple guidelines, including the following: Set a budget — and stick to it. Whether you’re buying gifts or hosting holiday parties, you need to establish a budget and not exceed it. The people to whom you’re giving gifts and entertaining do not expect you to dig yourself into a financial ditch on their account — and they wouldn’t want you to do so, either. Compare prices. With some searching, you can almost always find less expensive versions of those gifts you’re considering.
But a word of caution: The earlier you start hunting for bargains, the better your chances of finding good prices. Watch for “after-holiday” sales. The best bargains typically appear when the holidays are over. While these sales may not benefit you this year, they can prove quite valuable if you decide to “stock up” on gifts for the next holiday season. Don’t over-use your credit cards. Try to limit your credit card purchases over the holidays. If you must use a card, at least pick the one with the lowest interest rate — and do the best you can to pay off the card quickly. Over the last few years, Americans have actually done a pretty good job of lowering their household debt levels — and that’s definitely a movement in which you’ll want to participate.
Keep in mind that the higher your debts, the less money you’ll have available each month to invest for retirement, college for your children or any of your other financial goals. Avoid dipping into longterm investments. If you find yourself coming up short when dealing with holiday expenses, you may be tempted to cash out at least a portion of your longterm investments. But this should be avoided, for at least two reasons. First, depending on the account you’re tapping into, you may face penalties, fees and taxes. Second, and perhaps even more importantly, you’ll be depriving yourself of resources you had earmarked for your key goals, such as a comfortable retirement. Of course, you may eventually be able to replace the funds
you’ve withdrawn. But in the meantime, you’ve lost out on the growth potential these investments may have provided — and that period of lost opportunity typically cannot be regained. Build a “holiday fund.” It might be too late for this year but, once the holidays are over, set up a special account for next holiday season. Even if you put in only a small amount each month, you’ll be pleased with how much you can accumulate in a year. Keep the money in a liquid, low-risk account — one that’s separate from any money you use for your normal day-to-day expenses. By following these suggestions, you may be able to take some of the stress out of this holiday season — and possibly even brighten all the other seasons of the year, too.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
It might be too late for this year but, once the holidays are over, set up a special account for next holiday season.
To learn how investing on a regular basis can help you reach your financial goals, call or visit your local financial advisor today.
Merry Christmas During this holiday Season and every day of the year, we wish you all the best.
Financial Advisor Lin Watts 305 Olde Towne Way McDonough, GA 30252 (678) 583-1325
Member SIPC
www.edwardjones.com
Financial Advisor John H. Dorminy 190 Turner Street McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 957-0250
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