a henr y co u n t y chamber o f commerce p u blica t ion
NOVEMBER
2012
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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Holiday Party 6 November Chamber Briefs
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AAS / Golf 10 BBL / Annual Meeting 11 SCORE 12 Shop Local - Dec. 1 13 Ribbon Cuttings
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Edward Jones
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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.
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Chamber Welcomes New Members and Provides Orientation On Tuesday, October 9, the Chamber hosted a new member reception at elegant Eagle’s Landing Country Club for first-time members joining since April. Those who attended and participated learned the importance of networking and getting involved in Chamber events and educational opportunities. HCCC Board of Directors Chairman Danny Brown kicked off the evening by welcoming the new members. Steve Nail, the Chamber’s Membership Committee Chairman, explained the role of the Membership Committee and advised them of the various committees within the Chamber. Membership Director Gary Sparrow explained the process of rotating among the tables to learn about the various
benefits of Chamber membership. “I feel like I’ve made new friends tonight and learned so much about the Chamber that I didn’t know when I joined,” said Keisha Harris, owner of TuTus & Tennis Shoes. Many new members handed out business cards and met potential clients as the evening progressed – a solid example of how the Chamber provides the setting that puts business owners in a place to meet with others who may need their services. Everyone went home with at least one door prize and multiple attendees received $25 gift cards for shopping or gas as they learned that donating door prizes is another great way of marketing their business to other Chamber members.
SAVE THE DATES...
YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS
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The Chamber Values Our Members!
Holiday Party December 5 • Page 6
Shop Local Day December 1 • Page 13
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Chairman’s Message Danny Brown
There’s a Big Difference Between “Thanks” and Being “Soul-Searching Thankful” Everyday of our lives, most of us tell our spouse, children, co-workers and others who do favors both large and small for us, “Thanks.” “Thanks for dinner, honey.” “Thanks for bringing home those good grades.” “Thanks for your help with that.” “Thanks!” Sometimes it’s almost a reflex in polite society. We don’t even have to think about it. We mean it, but it’s as natural as “How are you?” or “What’s up?” Come November, Thanksgiving month, I like to do a little soul-searching. What are those things that I can’t possibly just take for granted...things that I could never have imagined, much less asked for...things that have been given to me with no effort required from me... and things I have worked hard for that panned out? Here’s my short list for this year: Our freedom, our country and the right to participate in elections -regardless of who wins or loses. The brave women and men who are willing to risk their very lives to make those things possible. My family, immediate and extended, who I know I can
count on for their unconditional love, regardless of the situation. The right for all of us to practice our faith in any way we choose. The ability to improve my family’s life and contribute to a better society by starting a business and building it with the support of community. Friends who smile, laugh, cry and share with me without judgment and with whom I can return the same sort of support. A place to live like Henry County where the people are friendly, the business environment is strong, our educational system is exceptional, our local government works with citizens to solve challenges and, despite temporary downturns, we still look for and see brighter days ahead.
Giving Thanks... by giving back!
A strong Chamber of Commerce with a dedicated staff that works tirelessly to promote our county to those within and outside our borders. There are many, many more. I’m just starting my Thanksgiving thought process. I hope that you will make your own list as we approach the holiday season. Believe me, it’s a healthy thing. This year, I plan to take it one step further, and I hope you’ll join me. In addition to just privately giving thanks for all these gifts and more, I want to reach out in the community to those who can use some help. I haven’t yet decided if it will be delivering meals on Thanksgiving, contributing toys to those who might not otherwise get any, or making a donation to a worthwhile charity. You can help me make my decision this year. If you have suggestions, let me hear them. (I think I may know a few Chamber members who may be willing to help as well!) Let me know by sending your suggestions to dide@henrycounty.com. Thanks...and I assure you from the bottom of my heart...I mean it!
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 Chevy’s Diner & Pub
About the Company Chevy’s Diner is an independentlyowned, cook-to-order family diner owned by Neil and Erica Daniell. The Daniell’s opened Chevy’s just off the McDonough Square in April 2008 and have not only survived, but thrived, despite a tough economy. “Quite frankly, we’re outpacing the industry right now,” says Neil, “we’ve been consistently seeing 10 to 15 percent growth each year.” Keeping pace with the growth is a good problem to have – a real testimony to the restaurant and the quality of its food and service, given the economy. Mr. Daniell is hard at work trademarking the brand to position it for future growth. Understandably so, since Chevy’s Diner & Pub was named the 2012 Reader’s Choice for Best Burger - Best of the Big A in metro Atlanta by the Atlanta Journal & Constitution’s AccessAtlanta.com (see http://blogs.ajc. com/best-of-big-a/2012/01/30/bestburger/?cxntlid=sldr_hm). The diner was also named one of the Top Five Burger Places on the Southside in 2008 by Metromix.com. This trend means that the 1950’s-style diner is rapidly outgrowing the kitchen capacity of its current location. Looking
toward the Spring of 2013, plans call for the restaurant to expand provided the economy continues to improve or remains stable. The current location employs one full-time and 17 part-time associates. The mission of this company is to provide genuine customer service & treat patrons to a 1950’s dining experience. The experience exceeds expectations by including hand-pattied burgers such as “Ike’s “I Like Cheese” Burger”, or “Ole Blue Eyes” or the huge one-pounder “The Cruisin’ Burger.” If, however, hamburgers aren’t for you, diners find mouth-watering delectables such as “Desi’s Fried Dill Pickle Spears,” “Rocka-Billy’s Grilled Chicken,” and the “Whiz Kids Philly Cheesesteak.” No meal is complete without topping it off with a hand-spun shake. Neil and Erica proudly declare that their diners learn “The ‘50’s Never Tasted Better!” Community Support In its four and a half year history Chevy’s has consistently been involved in the community, sponsoring little league teams, local churches and numerous other non-profits. In addition, Mr. Daniell is involved in the revitalization of downtown
McDonough. As president of the McDonough Business Association, he presides over monthly meetings between the City of McDonough and multiple McDonough merchants. Chamber Involvement “The Henry County Chamber of Commerce has been a huge benefit to Chevy’s Diner & Pub” says Neil. “The Chamber routinely introduces customers to us as well as hosting some of their events in our party room. The Chamber has contributed to the reason that Chevy’s has grown so rapidly,” he states. For more information about this company: (678) 583-8777 Email: chevysdiner@mindspring.com www.chevysdiner.com
For Successful Online Marketing, Choose the Right Words Just last week, a long-time business owner came to see me. He said that until now, he never saw the need to market his business online, but he felt it was time to change. His main question to me was, “Where do I start?” My answer was, “Choose your words.” Whether you choose to spread your message through a website, blog, YouTube, or Facebook, the first thing you should do is know your audience. It’s not about you; it’s about them! Decide what they will want to know about you and how they will look for information about your products and services. Next, think about words: what
Neil Daniel, Owner
words are they likely to type into a search engine to find the information? These words and phrases are called keywords, and should be the words and phrases you include in the content on your website and in your blogs. Don’t stop there. Every entry on Facebook, including picture captions, should include keywords. Every YouTube video should have keywords in the title, description, and even the transcript (did you know you can upload a transcript to YouTube with every video?). There are tools and tricks you can use to help you come up with the best keywords and phrases. Google has a keyword tool that will show you keywords related to any words you type in, and the popularity of
each in historical search results. YouTube, which is owned by Google, also has a keyword tool, as does Bing. The results from these tools will help you find popular keywords, but remember, it’s more important that the keywords you use accurately reflect you, your company, and your products and services. Once you know the words to use, it’s time to start writing the content
By Alisa Kirk, Area Director, Clayton State University SBDC
for your website, blog, and social media sites. Once your content is posted, update often for best results.
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NOVEMBER 2012 Sunday
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8 AM Youth Leadership Henry BOD, Bd Rm
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8 AM Leadership Henry, Bd Rm
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11:30 AM Government Affairs Comm, HR
8 AM 14 CVB BOD, Bd Rm 10 AM Membership 7:30 AM HCCC BOD Comm, Bd Rm 11:30 AM HCCC Exec Noon, Existing Industries, Comm, Bd Rm HR 3:30 PM Media Relations, Bd Rm
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Legislative Reception 5:30 PM (Location to be announced)
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
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
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 Georgia State Fair October 26 - November 4 Atlanta Motor Speedway
The Georgia State Fair is an American classic and it moves to its new location for a special fall schedule. Atlanta Motor Speedway, and its grass fields along Highways 19 and 41, will be the new venue for Georgia’s true “Peach of a Fair” in 2012. Fair times are 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Saturday and 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Sunday. For more information, visit www. georgiastatefair.org.
Abraham Lincoln lives in Historic Hampton • November 3 – 7:00 p.m. Speakeasy Bookstore - 5 East Main Street
Take a walk through the life of Abraham Lincoln. $10.00 per person. Make checks payable to Bear Creek Association.
Undead Dash November 3 – 5:00 p.m. Camp Fortson
it’s happening in Henry will also be an open category by American Legion Post 55 of and you’ve got the recipe Henry Has Talent! and the winner will be selected McDonough. for a fun-filled and touching November 4 – 3:00 p.m. by attendees votes. It’s $30 to Stockbridge Veterans Day Parade evening filled with holiday Henry County Performing Arts Center compete and $10 to hang out November 12 - 10:00am cheer. A moving story of Proceeds from this performance enjoy the music, beer and sample Stockbridge City Cemetery alienation, understanding and benefits the Ferst Foundation of
Henry County to enable the purchase the chili. More information at The parade will begin at www.jailhousebrewing.com. of books for preschool children. Stockbridge City Cemetery and Holiday Festival of the Arts end at Merle Manders Conference Southern Belle Farm – Final Weekend Center. Families can view the November 3-4 - Sat. 10:00 a.m. – November 11 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. parade by lining up down North 10:00 p.m. & Sun. 1:00 – 6:00 p.m. Henry Blvd. and Burke Street. For McDonough Square Southern Belle Farm additional information visit www. Holiday Festival of Arts is THE Families can enjoy cornfield place for affordable, handmade, cityofstockbridge.com and look mazes, a hayride, cow train ride, unique products that range corn cannon and a huge jumping from jewelry to paintings to under events. pillow. The fun doesn’t stop wearable art in downtown Stockbridge Veterans Day Lunch there! Racing pedal carts, a giant McDonough. Artist Market, Live November 12 -11:30 a.m. tunnel slide, Kiddie Korral, corn Music, Home Baked Goodies & Merle Manders Conference Center box, duck races, and pig races More! McDonough Arts events Free lunch for Veterans. can all be found at this fun farm. are family friendly, FREE, and Pre-registration is required. so much fun! Visit website Richard Petty Driving Experience for complete details: www. Registration forms for the November 9-11 parade and lunch are available mcdonougharts.net. at www.cityofstockbridge.com Atlanta Motor Speedway under events. For more information visit www. drivepetty.com or call (800) BEFruitcakes presented by PETTY. the Henry Players
Camp Fortson will be teeming with zombies seeking their next meal. Those intrepid souls who are still among the Living will navigate a course through the woods and around the camp, avoiding being “bitten” by zombies as they attempt to reach each checkpoint before Reptile Day arriving at the final safety of the Nov 10 – 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Demilitarized Zone. Once there, the Undead, the newly Undead and the Panola Mountain State Park lucky survivors will put aside their blood (or brain) feud and enjoy food, drinks and a zombie flick on a big screen during the “Undead Bash.” Visit www.undeaddash.com Did you know Hognose for more information. Snakes will “play dead” when SpeedTech Racing School they’re afraid? Learn about November 3-4 and meet fascinating reptiles Atlanta Motor Speedway and amphibians from our own For more information visit www. backyards and even around speedtech500.com or call (877) the world. Meet specialists 80-SPEED. and members of the Georgia Reptile Society and Georgia Herpetological Society. $3 donation appreciated. $5 parking.
Cory White Chili Cookoff November 11 JailHouse Brewing Company 12 Teams will pair off against each other to cook up the best pot o’chili they can muster up. Local chefs will be on hand to judge who came out on top. There
November 15-18 – Thurs. - Sat. 7:30 p.m. & Sun 2:30 p.m. Henry County Performing Arts Center
Veteran’s Commemoration November 11 Downtown Hampton Veteran’s Day 5K November 11 - 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Heritage Park Honoring those who served and encouraging those who will! Benefiting Henry County ROTC & Veteran’s Museum at Heritage Park. Registration opens at Mix together a batch of fruitcakes, three dozen 12:45pm and closes at 1:45pm. Christmas trees, 10,000 Veterans Day Ceremony outdoor Christmas lights, November 12 – 11:00 a.m. a chicken pox epidemic, Veterans Wall of Honor two southern spinsters, an Heritage Park estranged old man and a A Veterans Day Ceremony hosted Christmas hog named Buster
reconciliation, FRUITCAKES provides audiences with a heaping helping of holiday warmth and Christmas cheer.
Legends Racing: Winter Flurry Week One November 16 Atlanta Motor Speedway NASCAR’s stars of tomorrow battle for short-track supremacy on Atlanta Motor Speedway’s “Thunder Ring,” the facility’s frontstretch quarter-mile oval track. For more information, visit www.legendsofga.com or www. atlantamotorspeedway.com.
NASCAR Racing Experience November 16-18 Atlanta Motor Speedway For more information visit www. nascarracingexperience.com or call (877) RACE-LAP.
Gift of Lights November 18 – January 6 Atlanta Motor Speedway Atlanta Motor Speedway will be lit up once again this holiday season 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 Continues on page 6.
6 Sunday through Thursday and $20 per car Friday and Saturday. For more information, visit www. atlantagiftoflights.com
Cut Your Own Christmas Tree & Tour Open Daily beginning November 22 9:00 a.m. – Dark Yule Forest Hwy. 155
HenryCounty.com moonlightmadness.aspx before heading to Tanger Outlets.
Hampton Tree Lighting November 22 – 7:00 p.m. Hampton Depot Park Come join friends and neighbors in singing Christmas carols as the Christmas Tree is lit in the Hampton Depot Park.
Old Fashioned Christmas November 23 - December 16 Southern Belle Farm
Families can make holiday memories as they choose and cut their own tree, and pick out live wreaths and garland while enjoying free apple cider and candy canes. Hayrides and Christmas tours are available on the weekends. Farm tours are also available weekday mornings from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. For more information visit www. aboutyule.com.
Lighting of the Tree…in the Grove Thanksgiving Night – 7:00 p.m. Downtown Locust Grove The annual event featuring music, entertainment, the lighting of the Municipal Hall grounds. Oh, and let’s not forget Saint Nick! Bring your camera to take pictures of your young ones with Santa.
Tanger’s Moonlight Madness Sale November 22 – 10:00 p.m. Tanger Outlets
At 10:00 pm on Thanksgiving night, Thursday, November 22nd, Tanger will kick off the Holiday shopping season with its annual Moonlight Madness Sale event. Find exclusive, After Thanksgiving deals starting at 10:00pm and continuing throughout the entire weekend. November 22-25. Visit www. tangeroutlet.com/promotions/
Plus, the event will feature Dyno Horsepower Wars, a Kutie Contest, food, vendors, a wingeating contest, live music and DJ, car show and much more. For more information, visit www. kossmotorsports.com.
Stockbridge Holiday Festival November 27 -- 5:00 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. Merle Manders Conference Center & Clark Park Meet Santa & Mrs. Claus ride the Trackless Train, see the live reindeer, listen to the entertainment & more!
All You Need Is Love... A Benefit for A Friend’s House November 30 – 7 p.m. Merle Manders Conference Center
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.
Photos with Santa Begins November 24 Grandbaby Treasures Suite 618 • (Tanger Outlets) Daily times vary. Please call the store for details in advance. 678432-0102
Koss Motorsports Drifting & Car Show November 24 •Atlanta Motor Speedway
Chamber’s nd Annual Holiday Party
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Wednesday, December 5 • 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites - Stockbridge 638 Highway 138 West Stockbridge, GA 30281 Member, Dear Chamber compliments day cheer – li o H r fo s u Suites – Please join the Holiday Inn Hotel & t a ent and s of our friend d, entertainm o fo e b l il w e Ther day spirit. Stockbridge. you in the holi t ge to re su s door prize quired – so an RSVP is re s se o rp u p g d RSVP For plannin ate to your calendar an d e please add th otel today. Holiday Inn H e th t a y rt a p holiday going to do Last year’s d fun, we are n a t n a eg el so We look & Suites was or dress up – rk o w m o fr me it again! Co you. ng se to forward ei Chamber! ays” from the d li o H y p p a “H
se a Ple VP RS
Sincerely, Kay Pippin mmerce hamber of Co C ty n u o C ry Hen
Door Prizes are Needed! Promote your business – Donate a Door Prize! To donate a gift valued at $20 or more, contact Diane Ide at dide@henrycounty.com or call Diane at (770)957-5786. Event Sponsor: Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites – Stockbridge
The Koss Motorsports 2012 Drifting Championship will feature three different drifting courses, including the newlycreated drift arena, high-speed road course and technical arena.
RSVP Today!
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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November Chamber Briefs ... Congratulations to:
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Bennett International Group, recognized as Georgia Trend’s 2012 Family Business winner in the large business category. Based in McDonough, Bennett is a large international transportation and trucking company that employs not only family members, but family vate four homes in McDonough. The work is members of its employees as well. Founded in going so well that a smaller, fifth project has 1974 by Marcia Taylor and her late husband, been added. J.D. Garrison, Bennett continues to be run by President & CEO, Marcia Taylor and four genSouthern Journal erations of her family members. Magazine (formerly known as H Magazine). E2: Economics & on its initial publicaEducation Task tion in September 2012. Southern Journal Force for its recent Magazine continues the tradition as the only recognition by John magazine designed, written and published in Uesseler, Henry CounHenry County, keeping us informed about local ty’s career technical events, businesses and most importantly, the and agriculture educapeople of Henry County. tion coordinator, as inspiring Henry County’s first-ever charter school, the Academy for AdHarlon Matthews vanced Studies, recently approved by the Georand Scott Cole gia Board of Education. on taking 3rd place for doubles in wheelHenry County chair tennis at the Schools’ 2012 SeU.S. Open in St. Louis, niors on improving avMO on October 7. Harlon is the Therapeuerage test scores, outpactic Recreation Specialist with Henry County ing both state and national changes. 27% of Parks and Recreation Henry County senior scored above the national average in math and 26% scored above the naClaire Cline, who tional average in critical reading. assumed the position of Regional Director, Henry County United Way in September. Piedmont Henry Hospital on being named “2012 Person of the Year’ by Southern Journal Magazine. The Fuller Center for Housing – Henry County on completing and dedicating house #3 in McDonough recently. More than 80 volunteers from 19 states joined approximately 40 local volunteers to rehab and reno-
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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
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Superintendent 770-957-6601 770-914-6178 FAX
R. W. Coley
City of McDonough Billy Copeland, Mayor
Henry County Chamber of Commerce Convention & Visitors Bureau
770-957-3915
1709 Highway 20 West Westridge Business Center McDonough, GA 30253
770-957-5786
City Hall: 770.946.4306 Fax: 770.946. 4356
P.O. Box 400 17 East Main Street South Hampton, Georgia 30228
22 N. Zack Hinton Parkway McDonough, Georgia 30253
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
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
FIRE & WATER- CLEANUP & RESTORATION 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE
ethan.hildreth@henry.k12.ga.us
Mayor
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 75 FIFTH STREET NW, SUITE 175 ATLANTA, GA 30308 ECONDEVGA@SOUTHERNCO.COM WWW.SELECTGEORGIA.NET
OF CLAYTON COUNTY OF DECATUR OF HENRY & SPALDING COUNTIES
Ethan Hildreth
McDonough
SouthernJournalMag.com
770-946-8088 Nail-Air.com
Henry County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Proudly Serving Henry County
770-775-7857 www.cgemc.com
865 Hwy.20/81 West McDonough, GA 30253
770-898-1988
StockbriDge
850 Eagles Lndg. Pkwy. Stockbridge, GA 30281
770-507-5855
LocuSt grove
4870 Bill Gardner Pkwy. Locust Grove, HA 30248
770-288-3500
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Collaboration Contributes to Approval of Academy for Advanced Studies By Herschel Arant, Chairman of the Henry County College & Career Academy Steering Committee and Vice President of Engineering Services, Central Georgia EMC The Henry County Chamber of Commerce often goals, and organizational plan for the college and facilitates initiatives to help our community grow career academy. and thrive. As a result, our ability to collaborate All of the work accomplished by the steering as a community is now highly effective, even committee was done in full collaboration with Henry award-winning. County Schools, and, once again, collaboration has Late last year, Henry County’s capacity for won the day. Upon approval of the charter application collaboration was called upon to support a project by the Henry County Board of Education, on October that would expand and enhance educational 4, 2012, the State Board of Education approved the opportunities for students in Henry County charter petition for Henry County’s new college and Schools. The goal of the project was to ensure that career academy - the Academy for Advanced Studies high school students are college- and career- ready (AAS). Not only is AAS the first public charter school in when they graduate. To accomplish this goal, Henry County, but we are the largest community in the the community decided to pursue development of state of Georgia to have a chartered college and career the existing Academy for Advanced Studies as a academy. chartered college and career academy. A steering The Academy for Advanced Studies will open committee comprised of community leaders in August 2013 and bring with it a number from local business and industry, colleges, city of incredible opportunities for learning. New and county government, and public schools was career-pathway programs of study will be made developed to guide development of the charter available to high school students that will help school petition that included the mission, vision, them take steps toward preparation for a career.
Southern Crescent Technical College, Clayton State University, and Gordon College will all teach college-level courses at AAS. These courses will be offered as dual enrollment, allowing students to earn high school and college credit at the same time. Many students will be able to earn two years of college credit by the time they graduate from high school. This is a wise use of time, but even better is the fact that the college credit will be earned with little or no cost to the students. While it is obvious that AAS is a great opportunity for students and their families, it also helps the business community. The careerpathway programs to be offered at AAS will be aligned with the needs of local business and
industry. Simply put, AAS will educate and train students by providing current and future skillsets needed for job opportunities right here in Henry County. The result will be a well-educated, highly trained workforce that is key to our community’s growth and success in the future. Indeed it is an exciting time to be part of Henry County!
Thanks for Making the 12th Annual HCCC Golf Classic A Success!
Over 100 golfers participated in the Chamber’s 12th annual golf classic at Heron Bay’s Cannongate Golf & Country Club on September 24th. “What an absolutely perfect day for playing golf” declared Wayne Lowrey, whose sentiment was shared by many for the beautiful, cloudless day
that held just a hint of early Fall, and for the course which is so scenic. Participants were treated to an entertaining performance by trick-shot golf pro, Rocky Shipes. Outback Steakhouse grilled and served steaks and sides for the awards dinner at the conclusion of the tournament. First place in the tournament went to the McGarity Insurance team, comprised of Lindsey McGarity, Dave Womack, Sammy Craig and Ray Foster. The second place team was Robinson College of Business, consisting of John Marshall, Michael Hobbs, John Hicks, Sr. & Arthur Robinson. Coming in third was the Wells Fargo team of Kelly Yielding, Cory Yielding, Mark
Minter & Ted Randal. Gold Sponsors This year’s tournament Georgia Power wouldn’t have been possible PVH without the generous United Community Bank contributions of our major Apollo Staffing sponsors. A special thank you Bennett International Group goes to: Gas South Presenting Sponsor Outback Steakhouse Piedmont Henry Hospital Smith, Welch, Webb & White Putting Green Sponsor Silver Sponsors Robinson College of Business Parker Young Mulligan Table Sponsor Wallace Electric ServPro of Henry, Spalding Charter Business and Clayton Counties The Chamber’s Golf Committee,
1st place – McGarity Insurance Team
2nd Place – Robinson College of Business Team
chaired by Wayne Lowery and comprised of Roger Nix, Dawn Tapley, Ralph Kahlan, Rhett Tucker, Billy Duke, John Newman, Rhonda Segers, Shannon Springer, Susan Hoffman and Mike Ashby, did an excellent job of planning and carrying out the event. In addition, there were many other volunteers and vendors whose participation and assistance made this year’s golf classic one of the best ever.
3rd Place – Wells Fargo Team
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business
46th Annual Meeting/Dinner
Boosters luncheon
November Business Boosters Luncheon
Presenting Sponsor:
February 2, 2013 at 7:00 PM • Eagle’s Landing Country Club Mark your calendars now for the premier Chamber event of the year – our annual meeting/dinner. Donna Hyland, President & CEO of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, will present the keynote address. Mrs. Hyland was an instrumental player during the 1998 merger of Egleston Children’s Health Care System and Scottish Rite Children’s Medical Center that led to the formation of what is now one of the top pediatric
hospitals in the country. Today, at www.henrycounty.com. In Children’s is consistently ranked the “Member Center” box, select as a Top Pediatric Hospital by “Annual Banquet”. U.S. News & World Report and one of FORTUNE magazine’s 100 Best Companies to Work For. Henry County is pleased to have Children’s Healthcare – Hudson Bridge in our community providing quality care for our children. Tickets are now on sale for $125 per person and tables of ten can be accommodated. Ticket order forms are available
Now Accepting Nominations for 2012 Award Winners!
November 15, 2012 • HCCC Hudgins Room • 11am – 1pm Eat your first Thanksgiving meal of the year at the Chamber! As you celebrate the feast with your Chamber family, let’s make it a fun, yet informative time together. Consider this Business Boosters Luncheon as “networking on steroids!” When you meet people, shake their hand and give them your business card, you walk away hoping they will remember enough about you to think of you when they need someone with your services. How would you like to help insure that? Well, here’s how you can: Plan to bring one item with you to the BBL November 15th that symbolizes, or relates in a unique way to, you or your business. They may not remember what your business card looked like, but chances are good they will remember the object associated with you -- especially if it is “memorable” one! See just how clever you can make your item to ensure it’s one that will trigger the association to you or your services. The items will be put on a large display table. It will be fun to guess which item belongs to whom before it’s revealed! We may even do a test after all have shared to see how good your recollection really is! 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 November 15. Guests and non-members can RSVP by calling (770) 9575786 or email preeves@henrycounty.com. To cover catering costs, no-shows will be expected to make payment.
Each year the Chamber recognizes excellence by presenting awards to leaders chosen for their exemplary leadership and dedication to improving our community. Nominations are now open for the following 2012 Chamber leadership awards: Business of the Year – a business that stands out due to business practices and community involvement. The Billy Carter Public Service Award – an elected or appointed official or an individual
employed in a public position who has gone above and beyond official duties in service to the community. Volunteer of the Year – an outstanding individual who has given significantly of his/her time and expertise to the Chamber. The Citizen of the Year – an individual who has given multiple years of unselfish service to Henry County, going above and beyond exc3ellence in their profession, business, service or enterprise. Nomination criteria, forms and a list of past winners are available
online at www.henrycounty.com. From the home page, select “Member Center” and “Annual Banquet.” Nominations are due to the Chamber by December 30, 2012. Winners will be announced at the Chamber’s 46th Annual Meeting/Dinner. Ticket requests and nominations can be faxed to Diane Ide at 770-9578030, emailed to dide@henrycounty. com or mailed via U.S. Postal Service to Henry County Chamber of Commerce, Attn: Diane Ide, 1709 Hwy 20 West, McDonough, GA 30253.
2011 Winners L-R: HCCC Board of Directors Chairman, Danny Brown; Sheriff Keith McBrayer (Billy Carter Public Service Award); Mayor Lorene Lindsey (Citizen of the Year Award); Eddie Ausband (Business of the Year Award); Kevin Smith (Volunteer of the Year Award): Taylor Rice, HCCC Past Chair and Kay Pippin, HCCC President
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Central Georgia EMC Presents Check to Chamber Danny Brown, Chairman of the HCCC Board of Directors, and Kay Pippin, HCCC President were pleased to receive a $7,200 check from Central Georgia EMC on October 16, 2012. The check was presented by Warren Holder, member of Central Georgia EMC’s Board of Directors. CGEMC’s President & CEO, John Fish and Vice President
of Engineering Services, Herschel Arant were on hand for the presentation. Jeff Allie, CFO of Henry County Schools, and Bob White, Executive Director of the Henry County Development Authority also received checks from Mr. Holder resulting from CGEMC’s unclaimed capital credits exceeding five years. Thank you CGEMC!
Brown, Pippin, Bob White, Danny L to R: Herschel Arant, KayAusband, Warren Holder Jeff Allen, Eddie
Links, Likes, & Friends: Get Started with Online Marketing
$69 ... $59 for Chamber Members Friday, November 9th • 9:00 am–12:30 pm
SCORE- A Free Community Resource Offered At the Chamber
SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground and to grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. SCORE has been doing this for nearly fifty years. SCORE is supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and receives very limited federal funding. SCORE provides free counseling, resources and advice to people who are in business or want to start a business. The organization also have very low-cost workshops held in Atlanta on a wide range of business topics (see below for the website to register for mentoring or courses). SCORE’s unpaid counselors are highly experienced business people that volunteer their time to help small businesses succeed. The key qualification SCORE counselors bring to the table is real-world experience. SCORE volunteers have specific industry and general business expertise. Counselors may be retired business owners, business executives or operations managers. SCORE provides mentoring on-site at the Henry County Chamber of Commerce every Friday from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm by appointment
only (made via the website listed below). Several hundred clients have been seen in Henry County in a wide range of businesses. As a SCORE client, you can come back for as many sessions as you wish, free of charge. Each session will last for approximately one hour. SCORE counselors are interested in your success and will follow up to see how you are progressing. Find out more about more about SCORE by visiting their website, www.atlanta.score.org, where you can register for a free mentoring session or one of their low-cost workshops. “The score advisers were instrumental in providing guidance that allowed me to formulate a strategic business and marketing plan. Additionally, their insights were invaluable as they stimulated my thought processes with regards to avenues that I would not have considered without their extensive business experience. I would highly recommend any individuals contemplating a new business venture, or even expansion of an existing business to collaborate with the score advisors!” Dr. Megan Lebon
Henry County Chamber of Commerce
Lunch will be provided as part of your registration fee.
Call 678-466-5100 to register or visit www.georgiasbdc.org Do you have a website? Facebook fan page? Do you use SEO? Are you doing all you can to promote your business online? This 3‐hour workshop will cover the basics of developing and implementing an effective online marketing strategy for a small business. You’ll learn the elements of a good website and how to make sure potential customers can find that website both on a computer and on mobile devices. You’ll also learn how to combine
search engine optimization and social media, and how to get your customers to respond to your messages. We’ll discuss using videos, games, and story techniques to encourage customer interaction and retention, and show you some of the latest tools. If you’re a small business and don’t know where to start with online marketing, this workshop is for you! Sponsored by the Clayton State University Small Business Development Center & the Henry County Chamber of Commerce.
Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the Small Business Administration. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact Heather Chaney at 678-466-5100 or email morrow@georgiasbdc.org.
Dr. Megan Lebon
SCORE counselors, Jack Bernard (left) and Al Bowen consult with a client.
SCORE Roundtable at the Chamber.
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Receive 25% Discount When Renting the Hudgins Room
December 1, 2012 Shop Local Shop Henry Day! The Chamber is promoting December 1 as a targeted date to support Henry County businesses by shopping locally. With so many of our cities celebrating holiday festivals that day, it should be easy to save money on gas by staying near home, enjoying the festivals, then dining in local restaurants and eateries, as well as shopping at our local businesses. The campaign supports ALL Henry County businesses and all are encouraged to visit www. facebook.com/shoplocalshophenry and “Like” it – it’s a great place for any local business to promote a discount for the event. As a benefit of Chamber membership, Chamber member businesses always have the option to place discounts on the Chamber’s website. Members are encouraged to place a discount coupon for products/services targeted especially to December 1 that entice shoppers with attractive offers good for that day/week-end. It creates a win-win-win situation when residents shop locally. The shopper saves money in gas and reaps the benefits of the county’s tax revenue; the merchant wins business; and tax dollars remain in Henry County rather than going to champion another county. A few more reasons to keep your shopping dollars local:
“The Chamber’s newly redesigned website was already averaging 5,000+ page views per month; however, as with every well-running machine, a checkup can help to improve performance. As a new Chamber member looking to get more involved with the Chamber, I performed a local search engine optimization (SEO) checkup. This is the type of routine maintenance that every business owner needs to conduct periodically in order to make sure he/she dominates in their local
One of the benefits of Chamber membership is the ability to rent the Hudgins Room meeting/event facility at 25% off the regular rental rate. This beautifully appointed and well-maintained facililty accommodates up to 120 people and includes a separate caterer’s kitchen with appliances and icemaker. Chamber members rent the room as a place to conduct all-day company meetings that often include meals. Non• $68 out of $100 tax dollars are returned to the county when spent in a locally-owned store; $43 if spent in a national chain in the community. • Customer service is much more likely to be personal; you have a better overall shopping experience and develop relationships within your community. • Doing business within the community creates and keeps more local jobs. • You can creates less pollution due to less travel time and you have the opportunity to walk or bike. • You can choose to influence and strengthen the economic base of your community. Shopping locally just makes good sense. So make your holiday shopping list early, then follow the posts made by our merchants on the website and Facebook as you plan where to go December 1st. See you out and about as we all enjoy the holiday activities in Henry County and Shop Local, Shop Henry! marketspace. The Chamber website SEO checkup identified a few key areas that have the potential to increase value and drive 300% more traffic to the site. Over the next 30, 60, and 90 day cycles, the Chamber’s traffic patterns are sure to increase dramatically as a result. How long has it been since YOUR website performance was analyzed? Improve your potential to get noticed on the web, contact me today.” Lincoln Parks lincoln@webmobilefusion.com WebMobileFusion.com (678) 561-3185
Find a Business, Events or Job ... See Current Chamber Information ... Get Interesting Facts about Henry County ... Plan Fun Places to Visit!
Visit www.henrycounty.com
Chamber members can also rent the facility and have used it to hold wedding receptions, baby showers and milestone birthday parties. Reservations are taken on a first-come/ first-served basis and a deposit is required to hold the date. The photos below reflect a few of the uses of the Hudgins Room. To learn more about the facility, its amenities and fees, visit www.henrycounty.com and select “About the Chamber/Hudgins Room.”
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CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP Welcome to our NEW Members IHOP Stavros Vacratsas 121 Limbaugh Valley Dr McDonough, GA 30252 (404) 376-7187 September 19 Healing Hands Chiropractic and Wellness Center
155 Eagles Walk, Suite F Stockbridge, GA 30281 Contact: Dr. Patricia L. Evans (770) 389-4325 www.healinghandschirorpacticandwellnesscenter.com
Procom Wireless, LLC Alexandra Shepherd 1782 Joy Lake Road Lake City, GA 30260 (404) 576-6247 Spice Box Express Susan Cloutman 600 Eagle’s Landing Parkway Stockbridge, GA 30281 (404) 996-1293 Web Mobile Fusion Lincoln Parks 103 River Park Circle McDonough, GA 30252 (678) 561-3185
October 2 Black Tie Formal Wear, Inc.41 Griffin Street McDonough, GA 30252 Contact: Katie Harris (770) 474-5799 www.theblacktieformalwear.com
An Evening to Celebrate
A beautiful early fall evening welcomed attendees of the Toast to Tourism at Panola Mountain State Park on September 27. Guests had a chance to see those changing leaves up close as they scaled the large climbing tree. Tree climbing wasn’t the only treat, A.W.A.R.E and the Friends of Panola brought a few of their friends – a barn owl, a baby opossum and snakes! Families wandered amid the tourism booths learning about restaurants, attractions and upcoming events and getting their autograph books signed by these tourism “stars.” A representative from the Georgia Geocachers Association demonstrated how to locate a hidden “cache” using a portable GPS device and what some of these caches may look like when encountered in nature. Outdoor sports were also on display as experts in fly fishing and archery offered demonstrations and let guests try their hand at their sport. The highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the new commercials promoting Henry County. These videos can be viewed at www.YouTube. com/VisitHenryCoGA. Each year at the Toast to Tourism, the Henry County Chamber of Commerce/Convention & Visitors Bureau presents three awards to local tourism partners who stood out from the crowd for their customer service,
innovative ideas and general commitment to promoting Henry County to residents and visitors alike. At the close of the 8th Annual Toast to Tourism at Panola Mountain State Park, the HCCC/CVB honored three tourism businesses for 2012: Best Accommodation - a tie between La Quinta Inn & Suites in Locust Grove and Courtyard by Marriott in McDonough; Best Restaurant - The French Market & Tavern in Locust Grove; Best New Effort to Create New Business - Yule Forest Hwy 155 - Fear the Woods Haunted House and Trail and the Zombie Paintball Hayride. Congratulations to these local businesses for attracting tourist dollars to our county!
CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP Thank You to our RENEWING Members Apple Realty
Introspective Solutions
Atlanta Festival Ballet
Joe S. Chafin, DMD, PC
Bright Star Christian Academy
Locust Grove Pediatrics, LLC
Canongate Golf Clubs
McDonough Arts Council, Inc.
Chris Fisher
Perfect Portrait Family Dentistry
Country Inn & Suites
Primary Pediatrics / Pediatrics After Hours
Courtesy Cleaners
Purchasing Alliance Solutions, Inc.
Delta Plumbing, Inc.
RAM-Tech PC Solutions
Eagle’s Landing Appraisal Group
Showcase Signs, Inc.
Fancy That Fine Jewelry
South Point Retail Partners, LLC
Gas South, LLC
State Farm Insurance - Brian Andrews
Georgia Crown Distributing Co.
Truett’s Grill McDonough
Henry County School System
Underdue Social Services, Inc.
Home Helpers and Direct Link
Wash Me Fast
Hudson Bridge Animal Clinic
Wells Fargo
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FINANCIAL FOCUS
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Jobs, the Market and the Election Stocks have soared this year, but job growth has been slow, hamstrung by modest economic growth. The election is close, and there’s a lot of uncertainty about future economic policies. In our view, the long-term trends remain positive, despite many shortterm concerns that could trigger more volatile markets. As a result, we believe it’s a good time to consider bracing your portfolio by improving its diversification and making sure the mix of investments is aligned with your long-term financial goals. Surprise Drop in Unemployment The biggest surprise in the September jobs report was the 0.3% drop in the unemployment rate to 7.8%, its lowest level
since January 2009. The unemployment rate had stayed above 8% for the past 43 months, and few expected it would fall below 8% anytime soon. In contrast, the number of jobs added in September was in line with expectations. Job growth was 114,000, close to the expected gain of 115,000, according to Bloomberg. Although September’s increase was well below the 146,000 average monthly gain in 2012, revisions raised the reported job growth in July and August. Overall, the September report is another sign that the economy continues to grow modestly -- not as fast as anyone would like, but not slowing further. Rising Stock Market The S&P 500 has returned more than 16% this year and is
nearing its record high, helped in part by the broad-based rally that began in June. In addition, 254 of those companies have raised their dividends this year, according to Standard and Poor’s. Despite economic and policy uncertainty, quality companies have delivered solid results to investors, and we believe they will continue to perform. Keep in mind, though, that past performance is no guarantee of future results. While we never know which way stocks will move in the short term, normal volatility could return. We think modest economic growth and rising earnings can continue to drive stock prices higher over time. Election and Policy Uncertainty Many investors are
concerned about the possible impacts of November’s election, and you’ve likely heard some scary predictions. Remember that extreme predictions are rarely correct. In addition, election campaigns are full of proposals and claims that often never become law due to our system of checks and balances. Don’t let the election frenzy distract you from a solid and appropriate long-term investment strategy. Long-term investors have experienced many elections and market cycles. You can stay calm and invested through whatever challenges lie ahead if you own a well-diversified portfolio of quality investments and have rebalanced it when necessary to keep your mix of investments aligned with your goals.
Although past performance is no guarantee of future results, those who have stayed invested, taking the long-term view, have generally been rewarded for their patience.
To learn how investing on a regular basis can help you reach your financial goals, call or visit your local financial advisor today.
Happy Thanksgiving Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the things for which we’re truly grateful. At Edward Jones, we’re thankful to serve our clients and our community. During this holiday season and every day, we wish you all the very 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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