January 2013 HCCC Newsletter by Henry County Chamber of Commerce

a he n r y c o u n t y chamber o f c o mmerce p u blica t i o n

JANUARY

2013

H amp t o n

in this issue Chairman’s Message

Business Profile

3 5

Chamber Holiday Party 6 Chamber Hosts Legislators 10 Business Boosters Lunch

Business After Hours

G r o v e

“People Power,” by Kay Pippin 13 Ribbon Cuttings

Membership

Edward Jones

The Chamber’s 46th Annual Meeting/Dinner will be held at 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

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.

M c D o n o u gh

S t o ckbridge

46th Annual HCCC Meeting/Dinner February 2

Calendar 4 It’s Happening in Henry

L o c u s t

YOU R B U S I N E S S I S OU R B U S I N E S S

Exciting Travel Opportunities For 2013

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. 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 770957-5786 to purchase tickets. The deadline for purchasing tickets is Friday, January 11, 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

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 and continues to pursue her love of performing and traveling.

Discover the French Riviera

9 Days – 11 Meals November 7 – 15, 2013 Highlights... Nice, Flower Market, St. JeanCap-Ferrat, Rothschild Villa and Gardens, Antibes, St. Paul De Vence, Monaco, Fréjus, Roman Arena, Grasse, Parfumerie

Details on Page 12

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Chamber Welcomes New Chairman Here’s an Opportunity We Can’t Afford to Miss Eddie Ausband

Happy New Year everyone! Whenever I turn to the next chapter of a book, close the accounting on a previous month’s business or begin a new year, I feel a sense of renewed energy and focus -glad to have navigated through past challenges, yet ready to face the new ones which are sure to come. I’m honored to be able to lead our Chamber this year, in particular, because of what fellow Henry County business owners are telling me about the state of your businesses and opportunities we have to move our community forward in so many ways. The fact that you have led your business through tough economic times is a tribute to you. The Chamber’s steadfast resolve to focus outwardly with plans and implementation of programs designed to benefit our county in the long term is a testament to past leadership and active members. Thank you. Looking forward, there are many opportunities to explore and pursue. First and foremost is our continued emphasis on quality educational avenues for our neighbors -- young and not so young. In November, I along with the

Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee, had the opportunity to meet with Henry County’s new state legislative delegation to outline the Chamber’s priorities for the upcoming session of the Georgia General Assembly. This is a critical step so that our Senators and Representatives understand what business leaders believe can best position Henry County to attract new industry, expand existing enterprises and grow our local economy. There is tremendous competition for state dollars and it is essential that we as a business community speak with a singular voice and message. Committee Chair Jason Anavitarte very effectively outlined our top priority on the horizon for state funding -- Phase II build-out of the Southern Crescent Technical College’s Henry County campus. Next month we’ll break ground on the first of eight planned buildings on the SCTC campus and while we are not requesting funding for the second phase of the project in the state’s FY14 budget, we will request it in the FY15 budget. But as Dr. Randall Peters, president of SCTC, noted, “We must begin now to generate interest.” Why is the full build-out and

operation of SCTC so critical to Henry County? Great question. When an outside company, especially a large one, looks to open an operation in a new location, it looks at a wide variety of factors. Is the transportation infrastructure capable of handling our transportation requirements? What does the tax structure in the county look like? What’s the available workforce potential? Is there an educational training facility capable of providing the kind of training we need to get our goods produced and distributed? The full build-out of SCTC would give us a leg-up on our competition for large business facilities coming in from the outside, and with it, more jobs, economic growth, and success for Chamber members. It is a great forward-looking position. I look forward to working with each of you over the next year. I invite you to share your thoughts with me.

e stalled as th in e b l il w d d Mr. Ausban e HCCC Boar th of n a m 2013 Chair ring the 46th Annual u of Directors d r February 2, 2013 at ne Meeting/Din Country Club. ing Eagle’s Land

Eddie Ausband is President of The Ausband Agency, Inc. / Nationwide Insurance and CEO of Revanta Financial Group, LLC.

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Business Profile Atlanta Motor Speedway

About the Company With only four of the original seven superspeedways still in operation, Atlanta Motor Speedway has been hosting NASCAR racing since 1960. Aside from NASCAR events, the speedway hosts local, weekly racing with the Friday Night Drags and Thursday Thunder summer series. The facility also plays host to various non-racing events, like the Color Run, Georgia State Fair, the annual Big Green Egg EGGtoberfest, the Gift of Lights, warrior dash-type races, car shows, and consignment events, among many other events. The estimated economic impact on Henry County is in the neighborhood of over $200 million each year. Per David Curry, Henry County Tax Commissioner, AMS is the largest taxpayer in the county. Not only does AMS pay the most taxes to Henry County, the spectators the race brings in (especially tourists), adds to the tax revenue of the county. AMS opened in 1960 and employs 42 full-time associates and 18 part-time workers on a regular basis. Event-based staff supplement as needed. Owner O. Bruton Smith purchased AMS in 1990 and Speedway Motorsports, Inc. was formed in 1995. The Elliott Grandstand was added in 1991; Tara Place in 1994; a reconfiguration took place in 1997; rebuilding due to the tornado occurred in 2005 and the Winners Grandstand/Club One was added in 2006. The property encompasses 887 acres in Hampton and is the site of 46 luxury condominiums that are home to full-time as well as part-time residents. Club One brought the addition of a beautiful 4,000 square foot ballroom/ event facility to the community. Corporations entertain guests in the 141 luxury suites. The Speedway boasts a garden near the gift shop built in homage to NASCAR’s winningest driver in history, Richard Petty. Petty Garden contains a statue depicting Petty happily signing an autograph for a young fan and is one of the most popular attractions at AMS.

On Labor Day weekend, AMS becomes the bustling center of the NASCAR Sprint Cup world, filled with hundreds of thousands of fans from all over the country and the world. On race day, AMS holds in excess of 115,000 fans, making it the fifthlargest city in Georgia for the day! The rest of the year, this premier racing facility is open to the public for speedway tours and a behind-the-scenes look at one of the South’s finest entertainment complexes. Track tours are available daily and run every half-hour Mon-Sat 9:30 am - 4:30 pm. Ed Clark was named General Manager of AMS in 1992 by Bruton Smith and was promoted to President in 1995. Prior to AMS, Ed was the Vice President of Events at Charlotte Motor Speedway, General Manager at Nashville Raceway and Public Relations Director at Bristol International Speedway. Community Support Ed Clark is a past president of the Henry County Convention & Visitor’s Bureau as well as past Chairman of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. AMS has a chapter of Speedway Children’s Charities which hosts a variety of events throughout the year to raise money that is donated to a variety of organizations throughout the community that directly benefit children in educational, financial, social or medical need. In 2011, SCC gave away over $112,000 to 24 local children’s organizations. Other groups SCC and AMS have been involved with include the Flint River Scout Council and the Henry County Women’s Shelter. Chamber Involvement Mr. Clark served as the 1998 Chairman of the HCCC Board of Directors. “The Henry County Chamber

of Commerce is a great conduit to businesses in Henry County by representing the best interests of companies of all sizes within the county,” says Ed. “The Chamber also provides excellent professional networking opportunities and is totally in tune with the business and political community in Henry County.” For more information about AMS: (770) 707-7904 feedback@atlantamotorspeedway.com www.atlantamotorspeedway.com

Manager Ed Clark, AMS President and General

It Was a Very Educational Day! The members of the 2013 Leadership Henry class spent a day in November learning about the educational opportunities in Henry County. The day started with an overview and tour of Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy. The class then traveled to the Henry County Board of Education Administrative offices where Dr. Ethan Hildreth, Rodney Bowler, and Valerie Suessmith gave an overview of the school system. The group toured the historic 1938 Classroom before departing for the

Henry County Academy for Advanced Studies, which provides additional college and career pathway opportunities for students through the school system. The class continued to learn about the educational experiences in Henry County by visiting Union Grove High School and enjoying a lunch and learn. The day concluded at Patrick Henry High School with a presentation by the students. The group learned how the non-traditional approach to teaching makes a positive impact on the students.

The Academy for Advanced Studies offers state-of-the art classroom experiences in cosmetology, audio/video production, culinary arts and more

Patrick Henry High School students present

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JANUARY 2013 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Friday

thursday

8 AM Leadership Henry BOD, Bd Rm

Saturday

8 AM Youth Leadership Henry BOD, Bd Rm

Chamber Closed

3:30 PM Media Relations Comm, Bd Rm

10 AM Small Business Council, Bd Rm 11 AM Business Booster Luncheon, HR

23 7:30 AM HCCC BOD, BR 12 PM Ambassador Luncheon

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Chamber Closed

10 AM SCTC Groundbreaking Ceremony 11:30 AM Gov Affairs Committee, HR

8 AM CVB BOD, Bd Rm 12 PM Existing Industries Council, HR 10 AM Membership Committee, Bd Rm 11:30 AM HCCC Executive Committee, Bd Rm

5:30 PM Business After Hours at C&C Fencing / Lady Fencer

Chamber Staff Kay Pippin, President Laura Luker, Director of Tourism Diane Ide, Director of Communications Gary Sparrow, Membership Director Phyllis Reeves, Information Specialist 2013 Board of Directors Executive Committee Eddie Ausband, Chairman, The Ausband Agency, Inc. Charlie Scott, Chair-Elect, Piedmont Henry Hospital Leonard Moreland, Secretary/Treasurer, Heritage Bank Danny Brown, Immediate Past Chair, SERVPRO® of Henry, Spalding & Clayton Counties & Decatur

Brad Thomas, Vice Chair for Economic & Cultural Development, Snapping Shoals EMC William Strickland, Vice Chair for Chamber Development, Bellamy-Strickland Chevrolet June Wood, Vice Chair for Government & Education, Georgia Power Jeff Mills, CVB Chair Kay Pippin, Henry County Chamber of Commerce President 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 Jake Carter, Southern Belle Farm Denise Sowell, Capitol Street Financial Services

CLASS OF 2014 James Chafin, Henry County State Court Lisa Hunter, Southern Journal Magazine Leonard Moreland, Heritage Bank David Pittman, Bennett International Group William Strickland, Bellamy-Strickland Chevrolet Brad Thomas, Snapping Shoals EMC CLASS OF 2015 Herschel Arant, Central Georgia EMC John Newman, Classic Landscapes, Inc. Laura Turner, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta June Wood, Georgia Power Greg Hammonds, Whaley Hammonds Tomasello Monty Ray, Briggs & Stratton

Ex Officio Members Chairman Tommy Smith, HC Board of Commissioners Andy Pippin, City of Hampton Mayor Robert Price, City of Locust Grove Mayor Billy Copeland, City of McDonough Mayor Mark Alarcon, City of Stockbridge Ethan Hildreth, Superintendent, Henry County Schools Charlie Scott, CEO, Piedmont Henry Hospital Vickie Loper, Chairman, Henry County Development Authority Roderick Burch, Henry County Water and Sewerage Authority Michelle Nunnally, Leadership Henry Jonathan Hinton, Chair Appointee Gerald Hudgins, Chair Appointee , Chair Appointee

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Comfortably South of Atlanta Gift of Lights Through Jan. 6 Atlanta Motor Speedway

lights in hundreds of displays. Display hours will be from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Admission is $15 per car Monday through Thursday and $20 per car Friday through Sunday, and on holidays. For more information, visit www. Atlanta Motor Speedway is lit up atlantagiftoflights.com. once again this holiday season with the return of the Gift of Lights. The most affordable Sun Over Panola Mountain lights display in the metro January 5 Atlanta area, the Gift of Lights 11:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. will be a nightly drive-through Panola Mountain State Park event, with over one million LED Have you ever wondered what

it’s happening in Henry the sun looks like up close? Take multiple classes of Legends a look at the Earth’s closest star. 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 Using special telescopes that free for children ages five and are safe for your eyes, you will younger. be able to see the sun’s surface and the fusion of hydrogen on the sun. Join us for some super solar system fun. We will meet at the Nature Center. $5 parking. 770-389-7801. Cost to race is just $25. Minors and their guardians are required Legends Racing: to complete a minor waiver Winter Flurry before children ages 17 and January 5 & 26 younger can enter the infield; the Atlanta Motor Speedway waiver and instructions can be NASCAR’s stars of tomorrow found at battle for short-track supremacy www.atlantamotorspeedway.com. on Atlanta Motor Speedway’s For more information, visit “Thunder Ring,” the facility’s www.legendsofga.com or www.atlantamotorspeedway.com frontstretch quarter-mile oval track. Each event features

Henry County Chamber of Commerce Offers SCORE Mentoring on Fridays

Live your dream. The Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) offers services in Henry County to help. You don’t have to go it alone. With experienced business mentors in Henry County and the greater Atlanta area, help is at hand. Whether you’re in the planning stages, or ready to go to the next level, SCORE is here to help you with free mentoring and lowcost training. SCORE Atlanta is a non-profit resource partner of the Small Business Administration. They’re small business experts that have been helping people fulfill their dreams since 1964. This chapter is part of an organization of over

10,500 volunteers with 389 offices across the nation. Here’s what some clients say about us: “…..I really love the concept. It helps many people like me who have doubts on how to go about moving forward with my business. The best part is –IT’S FREE!” Jim. Right in Henry County you can speak with experienced business mentors with resources to assist with accounting, legal, human resources, management, finance, marketing, sales, and other aspects of starting or growing your business. Sign up online for mentoring at http://atlanta.score. org/mentors

Need help writing a business plan? The mentors of Henry County are experts in assisting you. They can also recommend resources online as well as inexpensive training workshops for you to attend. Try a Simple Steps class or a specific workshop. You will walk out with great information. They provide mentoring on Friday mornings at the Henry County Chamber of Commerce at 1709 Highway 20, West, McDonough, GA 30253. The phone number is 770.957.5786. To set up an appointment, email bernard_jack@hotmail.com.

McDonough Arts Council Juried Art Show January 11 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Winsor Gallery “The Outsiders” presented by The Henry Players January 31-February 3 – Thurs. – Sat. 7:30 p.m. & Sun. 2:30 p.m. Henry County Performing Arts Center The Outsiders is a coming-ofage play based on the novel by S. E. Hinton, written when she was just 16 years old. The story follows two rival groups in 1965 Tulsa OK, the Greasers and the Socs, who are divided by their socioeconomic status. The story was based on a friend of Hinton’s who was

jumped for being a “Greaser,” which upset her so much she went home that day and started writing the book.

How to Fail Forward in the New Year

Judiffier Pearson, Business Consultant Clayton State University SBDC

If your business has had a rough season, “Phoenix Rising” can be your chapter title for 2013. Here are three tips to help you fail forward and experience a rebirth of hope and direction in the New Year. Take the sting out of failure by expecting it to come, then prepare for it. Failure is part of the success journey. Just as financial planners advise us not to put all of our eggs into one basket, don’t put all of your hopes, dreams and resources into one vehicle with one pre-determined outcome. Why? Because not all investments yield the desired return. There can be high, moderate, and low risk, but never “no risk.” Risk is inherent, even when you decide to give up and no longer compete. It’s called opportunity cost. What do you stand to lose by not capitalizing on your ideas, concepts, and insights? What value do you sacrifice for your stakeholders when you try to play it too safe? Know your risk tolerance and prepare accordingly. Learn from your mistakes and make adjustments. Successful entrepreneurs allow the force of creativity to drive them and harness the art of discipline to stay the course in order to reach their destinations…

regardless of how stormy the seas may become. Many a sailor has told tales of battered, even destroyed vessels. However, shipwreck and failed missions didn’t necessarily cause them to abandon their love for the sea, nor dissuade them from pursuing new ventures or revising old courses. Reflect on your past wins and losses, then assess your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This exercise can help you move forward strategically. Be agile in the face of adversity. When life gives you lemons, make lemonade, lemon pepper chicken, lemon butter sauce, and lemon meringue pie. Every provocative story has tragedies and triumphs. Think of failure as your set up for a glorious comeback. Purposely write your own story with welcomed surprises to counterbalance the disappointing twists and turns that come with the territory of entrepreneurship. You never know what jewels you may stumble upon when you have to deviate from the original plan. Penicillin was the result of a contaminated experiment. Viagra was a happy accident. What may your failures lead you to discover?

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Chamber Holiday Party a “Who’s Who-Ville”! The second annual Chamber Holiday Party hosted by Holiday Inn & Suites-Stockbridge was a rousing success, thanks in large part to participation by the big man in green himself, The Grinch. Attendees enjoyed having photos made with the Grinch and endured (if not enjoyed) the wry humor he dealt them. A huge THANK YOU to James Wojknowski, who is a wonderful Grinch. Our sincere appreciation to The Holiday Inn & Suites-Stockbridge who once again provided a beautiful setting for an elegant party with a lobby that was decked out with Christmas finery. Their On the Roxx Restaurant provided delicious comfort food and carving stations, along with beverages. Absolutely Flowers provided beautiful floral centerpieces for the food tables while Southern Journal Magazine provided table arrangements. Rather than stealing presents, the Grinch handed out over fifty fabulous door prizes donated by Chamber member businesses. The 32” flat screen TV donated by the Holiday Inn & Suites-Stockbridge was won by Kyla Tammaro with The Original Shane’s Rib Shack. Piedmont Henry Hospital made sure that everyone went home with something, providing sweet treats from Incredible Southern Poundcakes. A huge thanks to all those who donated “presents” making the night more exciting and enjoyable! Be sure to join the approximately 500 who have aleady checked out the evening’s photos on the Chamber’s Facebook page!

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.”

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Chamber Hosts Starting a Business Workshop Heather Chaney with Clayton State College’s Small Business Development Center held a Starting a Business Workshop at the Chamber on December 4 for ten interested entrepreneurs. The Starting a Business workshop focuses on the basics of starting a business, whether it’s a service- or product-based business. The traits of successful entrepreneurs, legal structures for

a business, start-up costs and how to determine them, the importance of a business plan, and reasons businesses fail are all discussed. On average, 90% of businesses fail; the SBDC seeks to prepare aspiring entrepreneurs for the realities of business ownership. SBDC provides attendees with a textbook, a sample business plan, a financing workbook, and multiple articles to assist them in their entrepreneurship journey.

- 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.

South Metro Development Outlook Conference February 20, 2013 7:30 a.m. to 20 p.m. Georgia International Convention Center 2000 Convention Center Concourse College Park, GA Register early and receive a discount!

Call or Come in Today! 16 Hampton Street McDonough, GA 30253

770-957-9005

For more information visit www.smdoconference.com or call 404.684.7031

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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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 Hampton

If you’re looking for the perfect location, we can help. Along with SelectGeorgia, our powerful new state-of-the-art system for finding the best site or building for your company, our team of professionals provides world-class service to meet all your site location needs. We are here to be part of your team by providing our expertise, products, and services to you free of charge. From target industry knowledge to site analysis to visit coordination, we do it all. Contact us. We’re ON so you can be.

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

McDonough

865 Hwy.20/81 West McDonough, GA 30253

770-898-1988

1709 Highway 20 West Westridge Business Center McDonough, GA 30253

770-957-5786

StockbriDge

850 Eagles Lndg. Pkwy. Stockbridge, GA 30281

770-507-5855

770-946-8088 Nail-Air.com

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

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

LocuSt grove

4870 Bill Gardner Pkwy. Locust Grove, HA 30248

770-288-3500

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

770-775-7857 www.cgemc.com

Every LIFE has a story. Celebrate it!

Danny Brown

770-389-7910

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

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Henry Chamber to Focus on Expansion of SCTC/Henry County Campus in 2013-14 Securing funding for the build out of Southern Crescent Technical College (SCTC)/Henry County Campus is the legislative priority of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce for the 2013 & 2014 sessions of the Georgia General Assembly. The Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee met with 8 members of the Henry County State Legislative Delegation on Thursday, November 29, at the Crystal Lake Golf & Country Club, to discuss the Chamber’s 2013 Legislative Agenda. Chairman Jason Anavitarte was assisted by Dr. Randall Peters, President of SCTC, and Chamber leaders in a discussion with the legislators about support for Phase II construction on the Henry Campus. On January 10, 2013, a ground breaking ceremony will take place on the new college campus adjacent to Henry County High School in McDonough, for the first of 8 buildings included in the master plan for the Henry County Campus of SCTC. The anticipated completion date for Phase I construction is January 2014. “We must begin now to generate support from the community and most especially the Henry County State Legislative Delegation, for Phase II construction of the new Henry County Campus, if we are to be successful,” said Dr. Randy Peters. Funds for the Phase II construction will not be requested in the state’s FY 14 Budget, but will be included in the FY 15 Budget, if lobbying efforts are successful. Chairman Anavitarte congratulated the newly elected 10-member Henry County legislative delegation and expressed the desire of the Henry County business community to work with them to assure full completion of the SCTC/Henry County Campus. Both the Chamber and SCTC have committed to making the build out of the new campus a top legislative priority for as long as it takes to make the full 8 building campus a reality. The meeting of legislators and business leaders

HCCC Chairman Danny Brown asks Henry County’s new BOC Chairman Tommy Smith to draw the winning business card while John D’Andrea with Georgia Power and newly elected BOE member Mike Griffin look on.

adjourned to allow participation in the Chamber’s 2012 Leadership Appreciation Reception held in the Crystal Lake Club House. Over 80 Henry County elected and government leaders and local business leaders enjoyed the holiday reception honoring Henry County’s elected leaders. HCCC Board Chairman Danny Brown welcomed all participants and stated the Chamber’s appreciation for their hard work and dedication on behalf of the citizens of Henry County. Chairman Brown gave special recognition to the new, 10- member Henry County State Legislative Delegation and committed the Chamber’s support as they prepare for the first legislative session of the biennium. At the urging of Chairman Brown, Senator Rick Jeffares shared the exciting news about having just been appointed as a Senate Floor Leader by and for Governor Nathan Deal. “This appointment is not only an honor for Senator Jeffares, but for Henry County as well,” said Chairman Brown, “and having one of our own in this important and powerful position can only mean good things for our community. We are indeed proud of Senator Jeffares and our entire delegation.” Hampton City Councilman Marty Meeks was the proud winner of a drawing for a six-month complimentary membership in Crystal Lake Golf & Country Club donated by the Club. “I enjoyed the fellowship and the opportunity to share the holiday spirit with my colleagues, “said Henry County Tax Commissioner David Curry, “and I look forward to serving Henry County during the next four years.” The Chamber will host Henry County Day at the State Capitol on February 13, 2013. Watch for upcoming information to participate. Find a listing of 2013 legislators and contact information at www.henrycounty.com/pages/ FedStateLegislators.

State Representatives David Knight, Andrew Welch and John Yates; Representatives- elect Dale Rutledge, Demetrius Douglas, Sandra Scott, and Brian Strickland; and Senator Rick Jeffares discussed the Chamber’s legislative agenda with business leaders in a meeting at Crystal Lake Golf & Country Club on November 29.

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business

Boosters luncheon

January Business Boosters Luncheon

A State Farm insurance agent for over 40 years, Mr. Fowler served as the first Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Henry County Chamber of Commerce in 1967.

Norman E. Fowler 1931~2012

It Was a “Show & Tell” November BBL!

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.

Nearly 60 people participated in the November 15 Business Boosters Luncheon that featured a Thanksgiving feast by Sarah’s Country Cooking followed by a fun and memorable program of “Show & Tell” – an opportunity for members to present a single item that would make a lasting impression of their business upon the audience. While all the presentations were enlightening and memorable (some

even offered their displays as door prizes), the more memorable ones were Lady Fencer who wore a wire bra reminiscent of Madonna or Lady GaGa; Pin Strikes for the huge bowling pin that they gave away; 92.5 FM The Bear for their mascot; and Clean Slate Services, LLC for the rubber glove. Greg Cannon as “Sheriff Henry” kept the presentations to a time limit and added to the fun of the event.

While the program was both fun and engaging, it reinforced the power of marketing your business in any networking scenario, even in a humorous way. After all, people may not remember your name, your business card or what it looked like, but that’s okay if you made a memorable impression on them. Perhaps the November BBL was the birthplace of new marketing campaigns for some of our member businesses!

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business

Henry County Chamber of Commerce presents…

AFTER HOURS

January Business After Hours Hosted by and

Exciting Travel Opportunities For 2013 British Landscapes

Thursday, January 24 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm 2680 Highway 42 North McDonough • (770) 603-9745 January’s Business After Hours starts 2013 off with a great networking opportunity and the chance to learn everything you ever wanted to know about fencing – the materials, the services, and why fencing is the livelihood of a lady!

Double $3299*

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 $400 Chamber jackpot - and you must be present to win.

The 2013

STAR

Breakfast Student / Teacher Appreciation Recognition Breakfast The Henry County Chamber of Commerce Education Committee will once again host the 2013 STAR Breakfast held February 28 at Eagle’s Landing Country Club. During the breakfast, Chamber officials will honor 2013 Henry County STAR Students and Teachers. This is an opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of our hard working students and their dedicated teachers across Henry County. Stay tuned for the date and location. The following sponsorships for the breakfast are available to Chamber Members: Supernova — $500 — Recognized at the STAR Breakfast, newspaper articles, STAR printed program, and on HCCC website as a premier sponsor Three of your representatives may attend the breakfast and have your picture taken with the STAR student and STAR teacher for the press release

Shining Star — $300 — Recognized at the STAR Breakfast, on the STAR printed program, and on HCCC website Two of your representatives may attend the breakfast Rising Star — $150 — Recognized at the STAR Breakfast, on the STAR printed program, and on HCCC website One representative may attend the breakfast Contact the Chamber at (770) 957-5786 for additional information.

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 *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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PEOPLE POWER Written for Southern Journal Magazine by Kay Pippin, President HCCC and reprinted with permission

Individuals drive Henry County’s success - a testament to the hardworking, forward-thinking people who give Georgia’s 8th largest county its unique personality. They do this by staying connected, joining to build our communities and to support an infrastructure that makes Henry County an ideal place to call home and to conduct business. A prime example is what has transpired over the last two years through the E2: Economics & Education initiative organized and shepherded by the Henry County Chamber of Commerce. Each year the Chamber and its community partners host a two-day, out-of-town planning retreat for our community’s elected/appointed and business leaders. Participants travel to a Georgia community that is doing something worthy of observation and much of our time is spent in facilitated work sessions on a topic of importance to all of Henry County. The subject was “education & work force development” during the 2010 retreat in Athens at the University of Georgia. Following two days of hearing about the skills needed by the workforce of the future and a thorough overview of educational opportunities in Henry County, participants commissioned a task force to continue the conversation on how the greater Henry County community can ensure every child in Henry County has the opportunity for an excellent education and how we can assure we will have the skilled workers required by businesses already located here and those we hope to recruit. The focus became our public school system, The Henry County Schools (HCS), which is tasked with providing a quality education for over 40,000 students each year. The E2: Economics & Education Task Force, chaired by June Wood, Georgia Power, and Brian Preston, Preston & Cleveland Wealth Management, implemented the commission via six work teams comprised of over 100 community stakeholders. The work teams were organized around five goals: Graduation Rate chaired by John Fish, Central Georgia EMC; Academic Rank co-chaired by Taifa Butler, Georgia Budget & Policy Institute, and Jennifer Christman, ADS-Hancor; Secure Technical College/Dual Enrollment chaired by Debra Howell, Georgia Power, and

Plant Vogtle to Expand Danny Stone, Snapping Shoals EMC; Work Ready chaired by Kevin Smith, Toppan Interamerica, Inc.; and, School Readiness chaired by Daryl Dotshay, Connecting Henry. Donna Braddy, Piedmont Henry, chaired the Public Relations team. Following almost one year of research, meetings, on-site visits to schools and work sites, the all-volunteer Task Force completed a 26-page report containing recommendations that, if embraced by the entire Henry County community, will push what is already a good public school system over the top to become a great school system. As this edition of Southern Journal goes to press, we are celebrating yet another major outcome of this amazing community collaboration. This week Lt. Governor Casey Cagle announced $3.4 million in College & Career Academy funding for the Henry County Academy for Advanced Studies, a partnership between the HCS and Southern Crescent Technical College (SCTC). Add this to the establishment of a Communities in Schools Program/funding to address the needs of at-risk students; the state approval of a charter school program housed at Henry County High School but serving the students in all 10 HCS high schools and officially called The Academy for Advanced Studies (AAS) - a college and career academy; recognition as a Work Ready Certified Community and helping over 3,000 residents earn Work Ready Certificates; development of a “Dual Enrollment” brochure informing students and parents on how it is possible to graduate from high school with a twoyear college degree simultaneously at no cost; ground breaking in early January on the first of what will be eight buildings on the new Henry County Campus of SCTC; and the list goes on and on and on. The accomplishments are too numerous to include here. Visit www.henrycounty.com to learn more. What’s the real story here? The answer is “People Power!” This was all accomplished with no special funding and no out-of-town consultants! What these amazing business and community leaders achieved through E2 can be replicated across all major challenges and opportunities facing Henry County. The question is: what major community initiative shall we tackle next through collaboration?

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 new units will become a safe, costeffective, reliable and environmentally friendly fuel source to help supply energy needs for Georgia’s growing population. In the photos below, the thick-domed containment buildings of Plant Vogtle Units 1 & 2 are shown in the background of the first picture. In the next photo, the Cooling Towers for Plant Vogtle Units 1 & 2 releasing clean steam are shown in the background.

13 HCCC President Kay Pippin accompanied a group hosted by Georgia Power External Affairs Manager June Wood on a tour of Plant Vogtle 3 & 4 in early December. Southern Company’s Plant Vogtle is currently a 2-unit nuclear power plant located near Waynesboro, Georgia in Burke County, but 2 additional units are now under construction with the expectation that Unit 3 will begin operating in 2016 and Unit 4 in 2017, becoming the first new nuclear units built in the United States in over 30 years.

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CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP Welcome to our NEW Members Jacobs and Associates Rick Jacobs 100 Park 42 Drive Locust Grove, GA 30248 770.954.0136 Longleaf Hospice, LLC Debra Wells 2712 Lawrenceville Hwy Decatur, GA 30033 770.939-9179 Love’s Cleaning Services, LLC Tara Applewhite 477 Trousseau Lane McDonough, GA 30252 678.571.4810 December 6 Edward Jones Investments Paul Rippa 2141 Hwy 155 North McDonough, GA 30252 Contact: Paul Rippa (678) 583-5090

December 10 Mav’s Pizzeria

906 GA Hwy 81 McDonough, GA 30252 Contact: R.J. Witcher (760) 898-1516

YLH Learning about Public Safety and Education The Youth Leadership Henry Class of 2013 enjoyed a very informative Public Safety and Education Day. They met at the Henry County Sheriff’s Office on Saturday, December 8th, and learned from Chief Deputy David Foster about the constitutional role of the Sheriff and his staff, the history of the Sheriff’s Department in Henry County, and the development of law enforcement in general in our community. The class took a tour of the jail facility,

even getting to explore the vacant pod to get a feel of the environment. Their next stop was the new Emergency Operations (e911) Center. At the 911 Center, Director Don Ash introduced the class to the role of his department in preparing for and responding to an emergency. His staff provided a tour of the facility, explaining the software used in the 911 call center and how the calls were being handled that were coming in that morning. After lunch and a tour of the

mobile command center, the class went to the Academy of Advanced Studies (the Charter Career Academy adjacent to Henry County High School) and learned about the facility from Chairman of their board, Herschel Arant. Class members’ parents were invited to the AAS for the presentation and tour, and both they and the class were very impressed with the wide variety of opportunities there. We learned about dualenrollment relationships with local Technical Colleges and

Universities, the potential for AP and CTAE classes that couldn’t “make” in a traditional school (or were too expensive to duplicate across the county). It was a great, eye-opening opportunity for the class and their parents. Want to see more about what’s happening with the Youth Leadership Henry class? “Like” our Youth Leadership Henry page on Facebook, where you can see lots of pictures and video from their monthly programs; and follow them on Twitter at @YLHenry.

Mav’s Pizzeria R. J. Witcher 906 Ga. Hwy. 81 E McDonough, GA 30252 770.898.1516 Paras Integrated Health, PC Shantha Iyer 151 North Park Trail Stockbridge, GA 30281 404.662.2201 TRS Payroll Services, Inc Michelle McClain 452 The Gables Dr. McDonough, GA 30253 678.583.4995

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP Thank You to our RENEWING Members

1st Franklin Financial Corp. Ackerman Security Systems Allan Vigil Ford Lincoln Mercury Barlay Law Group, LLC Bennett International Group, Inc. Bobbie Wingo Eagle’s Landing OB/GYN, Assoc., P.C. Georgia Power Company Grove Side Real Estate, Inc. - Aggie Combs Hamilton State Bank (All Branches) Henry County Cooperative Extension Henry County Local Emergency Planning Commission Kauffman Tire Lambert Sand & Gravel Co., Inc. M. Charlene Alexander, CPA, PC McGarity Insurance

Meadows & Macie, PC O.B.’s BBQ - McDonough Pasta Max Cafe Paw Pad, Inc. The Point to Point Land Surveyors, Inc. Preston Creek Apartments PVH Corporation Sam’s Club Snapping Shoals EMC Sons Honda Strawn & Co. Insurance Suesan A. Miller, P.C. Toppan Interamerica, Inc. Wal-Mart - Hudson Bridge Road Wilensky & Kresses Group

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FINANCIAL FOCUS

Lower debt levels mean greater investment opportunities In the past few years, Americans have done a pretty good job of whittling down their debt load. If you’re in this group, you may now have a chance to use your lower level of indebtedness to your advantage -- by investing for the future. Consider the numbers: In 2007, just before the financial crisis, the country’s household debt service ratio was about 14 percent. (The debt service ratio is the ratio of debt payments, including mortgages and consumer debt, to disposable personal income.) But by 2012, this figure had dipped below 11 percent, the lowest level since 1994. These figures are national averages, but they do translate into real-life savings for many of us. If you’re in this group -that is, if you’ve lowered your debt payments noticeably -what should you do with this “found” money?

Of course, you could spend it on material objects, which, in some cases, may make your life more pleasant today. But you’d probably be better off by devoting your financial resources to your goals for tomorrow, such as college for your children and, eventually, a comfortable retirement lifestyle for yourself. Consequently, you want may want to consider these suggestions: Increase your contributions to your retirement plan. Try to put more money into your employer-sponsored retirement plan, such as a 401(k), 403(b) or 457(b). Your contributions are typically made with pretax dollars, so the more you invest, the lower your taxable income. Plus, your earnings can grow on a tax-deferred basis. Fully fund your IRA. You can put in up to $5,000 per year (as of 2012) to a

traditional or Roth IRA, or $6,000 if you’re 50 or older. A traditional IRA grows taxdeferred, while a Roth IRA can grow tax-free, provided you meet certain conditions. Fill in “gaps” in your financial strategy. With a little extra money each month, can you find ways to fill in the “gaps” in your financial strategy? For example, do you have sufficient life insurance and disability income insurance? Or can you add some investments that can help diversify your overall portfolio? While diversification can’t guarantee profits or protect against loss, it can help reduce the effects of volatility on your holdings. Build an emergency fund. It’s a good idea to build an emergency fund containing six to 12 months’ worth of living expenses. Without such a fund, you may be forced to dip into long-term investments to pay for

unexpected costs, such as a large bill from the doctor or a major car repair. Keep the money in a liquid, low-risk account. Establish a 529 plan. If you have children or grandchildren whom you would like to help get through college, you might want to contribute to a 529 plan. Your earnings grow taxfree, provided withdrawals are used for qualified higher education expenses. Plus, your contributions may be deductible from your state taxes. (Be aware, though, that withdrawals used for purposes other than qualified education expenses may be subject to federal and state taxes, plus a 10 percent penalty.) Reducing your debt level can remove some stress from your life. And you’ll gain even more benefits from debt reduction by using your savings to speed your progress toward your important financial goals.

Happy New Year!

New Year’s is a time to reflect on the year past. It is also a time to set goals for the future, and Edward Jones can help you do just that. We’re in your neighborhood and available to help you take steps now to help meet your longterm financial goals.

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

Invest in your future – devote new financial resources to your goals for tomorrow, such as college for your children and, eventually, a comfortable retirement lifestyle for yourself.

Call today to set up a complimentary portfolio review.

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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