Troup Trends | May 2023 Issue

May 2023

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May 2023

VOLUME X, ISSUE II

A publication of the LaGrange-Troup County Chamber of Commerce

111 Bull St./P.O. Box 636 LaGrange, GA 30241 (706) 884-8671

www.lagrangechamber.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Chair: Brandon Eley EleyDigital

Past Chair: Jamey Jackson TalentKinect

Chair Elect: John Westmoreland, CPA Boatwright

Secretary/Treasurer: Summer Deal True North Investments

CHAMBER STAFF

President: Connie Hensler

Director of Member Experience: Leslie Traylor

Communications & Events Director: Christan Spires

Accountant: Melanie Key, CPA

Design: Christan Spires

TO CONTRIBUTE

Troup Trends welcomes your ideas. Please send inquiries to info@lagrangechamber.com for consideration.

This publication is produced by the LaGrange-Troup County Chamber of Commerce. Reproduction in whole or part of this publication without express written permission is prohibited. All claims, materials and photos furnished or used are, to the publisher's knowledge, true and correct. Publication of any article or advertisement is not an endorsement by the LaGrange-Troup County Chamber of Commerce.

Troup Trends is published quarterly by the LaGrange-Troup County Chamber of Commerce. Please send news items, suggestions, advertising requests and comments to:

P.O. Box 636 • LaGrange, GA 30241 lagrangechamber.com

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It's hard to believe it's already May. The trees are green and the flowers are blooming... springtime is officially here. From ribbon cuttings to Early Bird Breakfast and the new ChamberMasters spring golf tournament, we have been kicking it into high gear this year!

Last year, with the help of Chris Clark, President and CEO of the Georgia Chamber, we updated our strategic plan. Our mission is to champion our member businesses and to serve as a catalyst for advancing the region's economy and our member's success.

I want to thank our 2023 Board of Directors, Committee Chairs, and all of our Committee Members and Volunteers for stepping up to implement the strategic plan across all of our programs and initiatives. They have already made big strides, and we hope you've noticed.

From elevating existing events like the Chairman's Gala and Early Bird Breakfast to the inaugural cohort of the Minority Business Accelerator program, we are off to a great start but it's still just the beginning. We hope you will join us at an event this quarter to see for yourself how we are making your chamber membership even more valuable.

This quarter's issue of Troup Trends focuses on farming and agriculture in Troup

County. We featured three local farms –Piney Woods, Lily Hill, and Abbottsford, as well as the new Troup County Agricultural Education Center. We also take a look at the history of farming in Troup County. Agriculture is a vital industry in our area and in the state, and we hope you enjoy learning how agriculture plays an important role in our local economy.

As I have said at almost every ribbon cutting this year, the value in your chamber membership is the relationships. Make the most of your chamber membership by engaging, networking, and meeting fellow business owners and chamber members. I encourage you to come to the Early Bird Breakfast, attend a ribbon cutting to support a fellow chamber member, serve on a committee or volunteer to be a diplomat. I look forward to seeing you at an event soon.

Contributors

CHALTON ASKEW Trustbuilding

AMY DOLLAR

West Georgia Technical College

BRANDON ELEY

EleyDigital & 2BigFeet

LAURA JENNINGS

LaGrange Art Museum

ANDREA LOVEJOY Community Member

MARYANNE LOVEJOY

Troup Strategy Center

LAURA MIRARCHI

Troup County

Cooperative Extension

MATTHEW OLESON

UGA Small Business Development Center

LEWIS POWELL

BRANDON ELEY

Chairman, Board of Directors

LaGrange-Troup

County Chamber of Commerce

Troup County Archives

SHELBY WALDROUP

Troup County High School

DEBORAH XAVIER-MIS

Troup County

Cooperative Extension

Special Thanks to Our 1911 Society Presenting

Sponsors!

Home Grown: Farming & Agriculture in Troup County

Across Troup County, the business of growing is a growing business.

This edition of Troup Trends spotlights three agriculture-based Chamber members, all founded within the last five years, that are bringing new ideas and new faces to the local farm scene. These budding farm operations —Abbottsford Farms, Piney Woods Farm, and Lily Hill Farm — plus many others add up to a significant impact on the local economy.

“Agriculture contributes to Troup County’s economy, and it continues to grow,” said Laura Mirarchi, Troup County 4-H Agent, and County Extension Coordinator. “According to Farm Gate Value Report, Troup saw an $8.57 million increase in agricultural revenue from 2019-2021.”

The total market value of farm products, minus selling costs, in Troup County, was $38,139,449 in 2021, the latest data available from Farm Gate. Troup County ranks 108th out of Georgia’s 159 counties in overall agricultural impact.

Troup’s primary types of agriculture include livestock and aquaculture ($13.5 million, of which $9.18 million is dairy); forestry and forest products (more than $10 million), and ornamental horticulture ($1.38 million.) Adding to the overall total are fruit and nut crops ($231,852), and vegetables, especially onions, peppers, and cucumbers ($135,000).

“It’s interesting to note that Troup is the third highest producer of pine straw in the state,” said Mirarchi, now in her third year as local Extension Coordinator. The extension office and Two Rivers Resource Conservation and Development now have permanent homes in the new Troup County Agricultural Education Center on Pegasus Parkway, further evidence of Troup County’s robust commitment to Georgia’s number one industry: agriculture.

Completed in late 2021, the Ag Ed Center provides a

centralized location for Troup County residents and members of the local agriculture community to connect. Designed as a teaching and training space, the facility also boasts a 3,600-square-foot pavilion that is available for farmers’ markets, meetings, and special events. Future goals include developing an outdoor demonstration and education space, including a community garden and a greenhouse for Master Gardeners. Walking trails and outdoor recreation opportunities will soon be available on the remaining 40 acres of the site, which has a 2.5-acre pond.

A graduate of Auburn University, with a degree in wildlife science and a master’s in Secondary Science Education, Mirarchi has 15 years of experience as an environmental educator, including managing the Birds of Prey program at Callaway Gardens. She currently oversees horticulture, agriculture, and science-based learning experiences for Troup County 4-H and, as County Extension Coordinator, acts as liaison between UGA’s College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences and Troup County Government. Mirarchi also manages the day-to-day operation of the Ag Ed Center.

Despite the same daunting challenges faced by farmers everywhere, Mirarchi foresees more opportunities for Extension to be part of the bright future of Troup County agriculture.

“With a growing Master Gardener program, a plethora of agricultural youth opportunities, and our beautiful new multifunctional facility, the Extension staff is here to serve the local community for decades to come,” she said.

Lily Hill Farm

Asign announcing Lily Hill Farm expresses its mission in three simple words: Southern Beef Naturally. Picture-perfect green pastures at the Baughs Cross Road farm are dotted with hundreds of Black Angus cattle grazing languidly in the spring sunshine. The setting could not be more peaceful. Or pastoral. But don’t be fooled. Running a beef cattle farm in 2023 is not simple and not easy. “There’s never a dull moment,” said Avery Claire Wrigglesworth, who owns and operates the farm with her English-born husband, Marc Wrigglesworth. She’s not kidding. The boots Avery Claire wears most days are not a fashion statement.

On a recent morning, she raced about, helping “sort cattle” that had gotten out of place when the March tornado knocked down fences and destroyed a cherished family “camp house” on the 1,000-acre farm. A bit later, she interrupted office work, grabbing an animal “first aid kit” and overseeing the care of a brood cow that had a roofing nail in her hoof, another “gift” from the tornado. Later, she would conduct a Zoom call with a Georgia Extension Service expert for advice on improving a pasture that was struggling after being converted from timberland.

The couple describes themselves as “two young farmers with a passion for raising ethical, premium quality, sustainable beef.” Grass-fed and grain-finished, their beef is raised without growth hormones,

antibiotics or animal byproducts.

“It tastes better and has more depth than supermarket meat,” Avery Claire said. “And you know exactly where it came from.”

The story of how the Wrigglesworths came to establish Lily Hill Farm in 2019 has storybook qualities, though Avery Claire says, “To us, it doesn’t seem that exceptional.” She grew up in LaGrange, often visiting the farm owned by her late grandfather, banker Arthur Mallory, then acquired, expanded, and operated for 30 years by her father, Needham “Ned” Mallory.

“I always liked nature but had only a superficial knowledge of farming,” Avery Claire said,

After studying dance and French at the University of Alabama, she took some time off to travel and met Marc on the English Channel Island of Jersey, where he had a successful career in international finance. The relationship flourished, she stayed in Jersey, launching her own career as an administrator in international finance and marrying Marc. In 2019, Marc lost his father to cancer and Avery Claire learned that the physical demands of the Troup County farm had her father thinking of selling.

The couple decided to uproot from Jersey, come to Georgia, and, using Marc’s inheritance, take over the farm in hopes of saving it. The herd had dwindled to just 80 cows and there was debris in the fields, Avery Claire said.

Photos by Megg Shelnutt

Building the herd was their first priority and after some costly mistakes, they enlisted local auctioneer and beef cattle consultant Mike Jones who pointed them toward an exceptional quality Black Angus herd in Virginia. They now have 300 brood cows, several bulls, and an abundance of calves “on the ground.” All have excellent genetics, Jones said.

Jones said it was a pleasure to work with the Wrigglesworths, whom he described as “very smart and hard-working.”

“They just rolled their sleeves up and said, ‘We are going to see if we can make it work.’ I admire them for taking this on, building it up, and making it better.”

Getting a quality herd was just one piece of a complicated puzzle, made even more challenging by the pandemic, which shut down many meatpacking plants, leaving farmers stuck. Stores faced shortages and retail beef prices soared, but farmers saw their prices fall to historic lows. Small farms, like Lily Hill, had little to no control and no way to sell their animals at adequate prices.

The Wrigglesworths recognized they had to find a way to control their own prices and not be at the mercy of the commodity market if they wanted the farm to survive. They made the difficult decision to ditch their cow-calf operation model, where a calf crop is raised to weaning and calves are sold all together at auction once a year. They transformed into a retail operation, where they sell their beef directly to customers all over the country. They credit their business backgrounds and top-flight training provided by a successful California retail beef business, Five Marys, with giving them the skills and confidence to go forward.

“If you think you didn’t have enough time before, try selling cattle retail,” said Avery Claire, whose duties now include keeping track of inventory and shipping. Marc tracks the markets and handles the hauling. The farm uses a USDA-approved processing facility in Forsyth and stores the butchered beef in a super-cold commercial freezer at the farm. They have contingency plans with a neighbor should there be a power outage, but the near hit by the tornado has them “saving up” for a generator. Their website, lilyhillcattle. com, includes ordering information, photos, and farm history.

Looking ahead, the Wrigglesworths say their goal is to grow, but stay small. In addition to online sales nationwide, they do sell beef to local buyers, with pickup on Thursdays and Saturdays, and would like to grow that segment of the business. Keeping beef yearround is another challenging goal, requiring multiple calvings, and a farm shop and other ventures could be in their future. Mostly, they want to be a source of high-quality beef raised right “from our family farm to your family table.”

Piney Woods Farm

Ayoung woman stands on tiptoes, carefully stirring a tall, steaming pot atop a commercial-size stove.

“What on earth are you doing?” a visitor asks.

“Scouring muslin. Boiling it, to prepare it for dyeing,” a smiling Jessica Turner says, as casually as if everybody stirs boiling muslin on a spring Friday afternoon.

Turner is executive director at Piney Woods Farm, one of a handful of nonprofit farms in the nation dedicated to Regenerative Organic Agriculture, a step beyond organic with zero waste in a closed-loop biological cycle. In just five years, the 100-acre farm at 485 Hudson Road has donated 100,000 pounds of nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables to area charities.

From a “germination tunnel,” young plants of cucumber, multiple types of squash, cabbages, spinach, greens, and six types of tomatoes move to “growing tunnels” until ready for harvest. The mission is not just to cultivate food for sharing but to push the boundaries of non-traditional techniques, developing regenerative organic farming practices that in the future can be shared to help other farmers grow nutrient-dense and healthy food.

Nothing is wasted, and everything is science-based, with extensive documentation and on-site lab where

Turner’s father, retired CPA Fred Turner, meticulously blends and experiments with compost teas and extracts.

“What we are trying to do is help the biosphere of the plants and soil,” Turner said. To that end, they also maintain a “worm reactor” to support vermiculture and a “honey house,” filled with working hives, producing honey and serving as pollinators.

“We have ideas left and right,” said Turner, noting that the farm is currently experimenting with organic hay, making their own natural fertilizer (no animal wastes allowed), and creating a mushroom trail along fallen logs in an old-growth forest.

And then, there’s the fun aspect, focused on bringing people to the farm to experience the natural environment and learn everything from making soap to making pasta from scratch. Classes are taught by local and regional experts in the rustic splendor of the well-equipped Discovery Center, which includes a spacious demonstration kitchen, picnicstyle tables, and areas for fiber arts, including dyeing.

Local businesses have used the farm for team-building events and school field trips are highlighted by visits to the llama enclosure, miniature horses, and sheepfold. The animals are rotated among fields to reduce the need for mowing and are sheared to provide fiber for classes.

This summer’s calendar includes farm tours, kid’s discovery classes, a farm-totable dinner, and a musical evening on June 10 featuring the Puddle Jumpers, a well-known North Carolina group with old-time banjo, fiddle, songs, stories, and clogging. All events are open to the public and tickets are available via the website (pineywoodsfarm.org)

An artist at heart, Turner discovered a strong personal interest in fiber arts while attending the John C. Campbell Folk Art School in Brasstown, N.C. The farm has its own dye garden, with indigo

and other natural dyeing material, and a terraced lavender field that is a sight to see when it blooms in June.

Turner, with help from her mother, Mary Turner, and her children, Alexandra and Catherine Jarvholm, has welcomed groups for programs and classes in spinning, weaving, knitting, and dyeing. A three-day “Sheep to Shawl” event for all skill levels is planned for June 9-11.

The Piney Woods Farm Fiber Guild is an open group for anyone who shares a passion for the fiber arts, including weaving, spinning, basketry, knitting,

crocheting, quilting, beading, rug hooking, dyeing, and more. The group meets on the last Saturday of each month at the farm.

Going forward, Turner said, her aim is to “stay true to who we are as a 501C3,” keep growing in the regenerative organic agriculture and expose as many people as possible to the farm.

“We have a passion to create an environment where both plants and people can grow,” she said.

Abbottsford Farms

Philip and Lucas Parmer always loved growing backyard vegetable gardens. They still do.

Only now, the father-son duo grows a really big garden, and their “backyard” is Abbottsford Farms, a 70-acre fruit and vegetable growing venture they started in 2020. Both families live on the property — Lucas, his wife, Miranda, and their two young children in a traditional white farmhouse; Philip and his wife, Wendy, in a cozy, recently-constructed “barndominium” with blue siding and an abundance of barn-style features inside.

The Parmers had a passion for farming, but no commercial growing experience, when they stepped out on faith to launch the business at 410 Abbottsford Road. “We saw a need for locally grown produce in Troup County,” Philip said. It helped that they had deep roots in Troup County and a work ethic acquired the old-fashioned way. Philip’s father,

J.W. Parmer, owned and operated Parmer Brothers Grocery for 60 years. Philip started work there at a young age, and when Lucas came along, so did he. They now work together at Parmer Water Company, which Philip founded in 1985.

“Our goal is to turn Abbottsford Farms into a full-time operation for Lucas,” Philip Parmer said. “We’re 100 percent dedicated to that. We’re going to make it work.”

The word “work” is well chosen. While farming is a labor of love for the Parmers, it’s a whole lot of labor, too. In addition to “well-tended dirt,” there’s irrigation to run, fertilizer to apply, weeds and hungry animals to control, equipment to buy and maintain, harvesting, selling, promotion, merchandising, and the general business of farming.

This planting season they have put in 500800 pounds of onions and garlic – some 4,500 plants. Multiple rows of pole beans – each 275 feet long – are coming along, as are corn, broccoli, carrots, several

types of squash, gold potatoes, sweet potatoes, and okra. Strawberries have come back strong after an early “reset” due to a cold snap, and newly-planted blackberries are considered a three-year project. This fall they’ll have a big field of pumpkins.

Abbottsford Farms offers Community Supported Agriculture subscriptions, weekly boxes of hand-picked produce during an eight-week summer season. They also sell by the pound, bushel, or half bushel. Some seasonal workers are hired and family members pitch in, but for now, it’s mostly just the two of them, with Lucas as the primary farmer.

Part of the learning curve has been finding what’s right for each area of the farm and each type of produce. Each crop has its own specific needs, Lucas points out. There’s no one-size-fits-all.

“We’re still figuring out how to do each crop better. Strawberries are the hardest and most expensive to grow,” he said. “There’s a lot of work in strawberries.”

And a lot of rewards, too. In addition to picking baskets for sale, Abbottsford Farms is currently hosting “pick your own” days several times a week, and the field is filled with the joys of children squealing as they find the yummy, red berries. They also offer homemade

strawberry treats, including bread and cupcakes made by Wendy Parmer, and jams and jellies ideal for gift giving. Though still relatively new to farming, the Parmers are looking to add new opportunities, including a flower field, with sunflowers, zinnias, and wildflowers, and a fall pumpkin patch. On the last Saturday in October, they plan a fall festival with prize money for the biggest pumpkin. Growers of all ages are encouraged to plant pumpkins in June or July to grow an entry for the competition.

“We’re also thinking of having a pumpkin smashing. That would be fun,” Lucas said. Now, three years in, the Parmers’ enthusiasm for their venture is still strong, though the realities of farming have brought some disappointment, too. Lack of rain cost them a whole crop of corn, a big loss, but they have added irrigation and have high hopes for this year’s crop.

“We face the same things all farmers face and have faced for generations – bugs, heat, rain, drought,” Philip said, a smile crossing his face as he speaks. When he looks out over his crops, he doesn’t see the problems. He sees a simple, familycentered lifestyle. He sees the future.

“Every time I come through the gate,” he said, “I feel like I am in heaven.”

The Ag Agent

At the Troup County Extension Office our goal is to share research-based information with county residents. Information is disseminated from the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences through a trained agent.

The Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) Agent, a.k.a. “The Ag Agent,” is responsible for developing programs and answering agriculture-related questions for the community. Programs are based on community needs, according to questions that come to the office and/or observation of local interest.

The area of Agriculture and Natural Resources covers a multitude of topics, including but not restricted to: plants, livestock, plant diseases, weed management, poultry, forage management, gardening, horticulture, urban agriculture, pond/lake management, etc.

Over the past 2 years our current Ag agent, Deborah Xavier-Mis, has delivered various successful programs, seminars,

and workshops to the community. She collaborates with UGA Extension Specialists, local stakeholders, and the Georgia Department of Agriculture to promote agriculture and share resources with the public. She also coordinates a group of Master Gardener Extension Volunteers (MGEVs), who are trained volunteers that help with horticultural projects. Current MGEVs are involved in community gardens, school projects, and outreach programs. They are avid gardeners and active garden club members with valuable insight as they extend the reach of Extension within the community. There have been many successful, well-attended programs facilitated by Troup County Extension,

such as, the Gardening Seminar series, Pruning Workshop, Lawncare Seminar, Horse Symposium, Water-barrel demo and installation, Master Naturalist, Egg Candling, Farm Resources Seminar, and AG DAY.

One of the most successful programs is AG DAY, which is a day in the fall when local ag-related groups are invited to have a table to present their business to the public. Members of the public are invited to visit the event and learn about

all their local agricultural groups. The success of the event was due to the participation of the local ag community, support of Troup County residents and collaboration of County Government and other stakeholders. “I was pleased to see not only the interaction of the public with the ag-groups but also the ag-groups among themselves. Networking with local peers and sharing experiences was a great part of the event,” declared Deborah with enthusiasm.

The Ag Agent has the chance to meet with the community and to work closely with farmers, homeowners and community groups, bringing answers and suggestions for their agricultural issues.

When asked what she enjoys most about her position, Deborah responded, “I have enjoyed meeting with community members and learning as I searched for answers to their questions. I was fortunate to have the support of my local Extension team, MGEVs, and local business and government to make my programs successful. I have encountered that every day at the office is different, which challenges me to get out of my comfort zone to search for answers for my clientele.”

Deborah has an extensive background in agriculture. She grew up on a farm and has a bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, with a Master’s Degree in Plant Pathology. She worked with Research and Extension for over 6 years, before joining our Extension team as an Ag Agent. She is excited about promoting Agriculture and assisting farmers in their needs.

1111 Mooty Bridge Road

LaGrange, Georgia 30240

Office: 706-884-5681

Cell: 706-594-6344

alisa.matheny@spinksbrowndurand.com

Website: alisamatheny.sites.cbmoxi.com

Licensed in Georgia and Alabama

Graduate, Realtor Institute

Accredited Buyer Representative

Seller Representative Specialist

Military Relocation Professional Commitment to Excellence Endorsement

Homes for Heroes Specialist

Helping You Grow

You may be familiar with the University of Georgia’s Small Business Development Center, or SBDC. The organization was founded in 1977 on the premise of helping Georgia’s small business owners grow their businesses. The services are multifaceted and designed to help businesses succeed. The SBDC accomplishes this by catering to the business owner’s needs in three different ways: 1-on-1 consulting, online and in-person training programs that cover important topics pertinent

to businesses, and through special initiatives. One of those special initiatives is directly tied to the farming industry in Georgia, the Agribusiness division of the SBDC.

The Agribusiness division can assist agricultural businesses from start to finish. Whether it be the initial stages of helping with the development of the business plan and marketing strategy, or even in the ramp-up phase when you are looking to grow and need assistance with loan proposals and projections, the

Agribusiness division can help guide you through many of the complicated parts of owning and running an agricultural business in Georgia. So, if you are a farmer and need assistance with some aspect of your business, or you are in the process of starting a farming business, reach out to the SBDC for help. With 18 offices across the state of Georgia, and one specifically located in LaGrange, we have consultants that can help guide you in the right direction and assist you in your business endeavors.

706.884.8671

christan@lagrangechamber.com

The Earliest Farmers

Many millennia ago, the land that is now Troup County was wild and untamed. Forests, broken only by broad streams and the Chattahoochee River, covered nearly everything. Herds of elk, buffalo, and deer were pursued by packs of wolves and the occasional cougar. Raucous flocks of Carolina parakeets and passenger pigeons and the loud hammering of ivory-billed and redcockaded woodpeckers punctuated the sylvan scene. Humans stepped into this world roughly 15,000 years ago.

These people may likely have been following herds of game, a pursuit they would carry out for their entire lives. They lived a nomadic existence and mostly followed the major rivers and streams as they moved in step with the natural cycle of seasons and migrations. While their subsistence was based on meat, they were expert foragers who varied their

diets with vegetal bounty from the forest. Due to their nomadic existence, we know little of these people.

Over the millennia, observations of the natural world led to the development of new hunting techniques and the cultivation of plants, giving these people little reason to continue their nomadic existence. The first domesticated plant is believed to have been the lowly squash, a plant that could not only be eaten but its hard shell could be dried into gourds. Within eastern North America, the sunflower was also domesticated for its seeds that can be eaten and pressed for their oil.

Bolstered with agricultural knowledge, an array of plants quickly found their way into local gardens including beans and the most important of all the crops, maize or corn. According to current scholarship, corn is believed to have originated as a grass called teosinte in what is now Central Mexico. Local natives selected

large seed heads of the plant and perhaps distributed them far and wide. As others planted the seeds, new strains developed, and corn was created.

As corn was widely adopted, it soon became the basis for native diets and culture. Here, in the eastern woodlands, it was discovered that corn made an ideal crop with which to grow with beans and squash (which could wrap their tendrils and vines around the corn’s stalks), leading the trio to be dubbed, “The Three Sisters.” Corn’s versatility led it to quickly become the main dietary staple. The plant’s growing cycle was soon celebrated as it became a foundation of native life.

As villages evolved, large open fields surrounding each community were sowed with corn and maintained by all the villagers. A shaman would oversee the village’s efforts in the fields both physically and spiritually and would summon the villagers when the crops

needed to be planted, maintained, or harvested. Each family also kept their own home gardens where corn as well as many other crops would be grown for personal use.

For the natives who lived in what would become Troup County: the Mississippean peoples and later the Muscogee, the most important celebration of the year was the Ceremony of the Green Corn, called poskeeta in Muskogean. This occurred at the time of the ripening of the corn crop, usually between midJuly and September. This was a time for purification of both the soul and the physical body. All crimes (except murder) and quarrels were forgotten, old fires would be extinguished, new fires kindled, old pots and vessels were broken and replaced, and the village square and communal spaces would be cleaned and refurbished. The villagers of smaller villages would gather in the larger villages to dance, feast, and play stickball, all of which had both religious and social aspects.

In 1540, as the conquistador Hernando de Soto explored parts of Georgia and the southeast, his men herded a number of pigs along their route. Of course, some pigs escaped, though some were offered to natives along with ideas about raising livestock. Once European traders began trading seeds, goods, and ideas with the natives, new agricultural techniques and crops were adopted within their expertly

planted gardens and fields. Watermelons, potatoes, sweet potatoes, okra, new varieties of beans, and fruit trees like peach and apple added new colors and flavors to the natives’ diet along with the introduction of chickens and cattle, and the European honeybee. However, this almost utopian world would not last. Tensions between native people and settlers rose towards the end of the 18th century and early 19th century. Many of the native people fled this part of Georgia with the signing of the controversial Treaty of Indian Springs in 1825 leaving their once bountiful farms abandoned.

Leading LaGrange

to the City of LaGrange and to serve with honesty and integrity.” When his muchadmired predecessor, Jim Thornton, resigned to take another job, Edmondson said, “I asked myself ‘Who could fill his role?’ and then I looked in the mirror and saw my own face. I felt I could fill the role and continue the work Jim Thornton has done.”

Edmondson outlined four areas of work where he plans to be most active as mayor. His goals include attracting new businesses, recruiting more highpaying industries, making streets safer and improving or replacing substandard housing.

of the Courtyard by Marriott, and locate the movie theater and parking decks downtown, Edmondson said, “Look at it now! Our downtown is flourishing, because we were proactive.” He also lauded the Callaway Foundation’s significant role in downtown revitalization and encouraged his young listeners to be appreciative of the Callaway philanthropies.

On a recent Thursday, LaGrange Mayor W. T. Edmondson stepped to the podium at an early morning “Coffee & Connections” meeting of Troup County Young Professionals.

“I once was young like you,” the 68-yearold mayor quipped, inspiring laughter from the diverse group of about 40 young men and women gathered at the Chamber for networking. “Fortunately,” the mayor added, “I am getting younger.”

Not yet two months into his tenure as Mayor of LaGrange, the part-time post has been “more like full-time plus overtime so far,” he said.

Edmondson is not complaining, although he admits he’s eager to fall into bed each night. He knows a lot is expected of him. His victory in the March special election has been hailed as historic because he is the city’s first Black mayor. A funeral home owner and veteran pastor, Edmondson served 24 years on LaGrange City Council, including several stints as mayor pro tem. He acknowledges the historymaking aspect of his election but said he’s humbled by the opportunity to be mayor and ran because he felt his experience made him most qualified.

“It was not my dream to be mayor,” he said. “It was my dream to be committed

Here’s a rundown of the mayor’s plans. On business: Attracting more restaurants and retail shops is a priority because “Columbus, Auburn and Newnan are getting our money,” said the mayor. The city plans to hire a person to intensify outreach to potential businesses in coordination with the Chamber and other organizations.

On jobs: The presence of Kia and its suppliers has boosted the county’s average income, but more better-paying, blue-collar jobs are needed. “We grow holistically when we are prepared,” Edmondson said, citing the importance of infrastructure and education so that “locals get a shot.”

On safe streets: LaGrange’s four murders in four months in 2023 are “too many,” the mayor said, pledging to work with new police chief Garrett Fiveash on measures to address youth violence and gang activity, in particular. “People should be able to sit on their porches and walk down the street without fearing for their safety,” he said.

On housing: The city is working with the LaGrange Housing Authority, DASH, the Calumet Neighborhood Association, Habitat for Humanity, Callaway Foundation, and others on a plan to make major improvements in the Addie and McGee Street area.

The mayor also pointed out several success stories.

Vibrant downtown: Noting that during his years on city council, leaders “caught a lot of heat” for stepping up to buy the former Mansour’s building, now the site

Tourism boom: With the continued success of Great Wolf Lodge and other tourist-attracting businesses, plus the strong work of Visit LaGrange, the community is seeing more visitors than ever. Tourism is an area of even greater potential, the mayor believes, noting that ongoing improvements at Mulberry Street Cemetery, where the historically significant King covered bridge has been relocated, will add another draw.

“Side by side, you have the Confederate Cemetery and about 400 unmarked graves, many of whom are thought to have been slaves, and then the King Bridge. What better way to bridge it all together!” he said.

Celebrations: The mayor and city staff have begun planning two major upcoming celebrations: the City of LaGrange’s 200th birthday in 2028, and a Mayor’s Ball to be held next year as a charitable fundraising event to support after-school projects for children.

To devote most of his energy to city business, Mayor Edmondson has cut back on time spent in his roles as owner of Lakes-Dunson-Robertson Funeral Home and pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church in West Point and Antioch Baptist Church in LaGrange. Additional staff, his family, and his deacons have “stepped up,” to free him from many day-to-day responsibilities though he still preaches twice on Sundays.

Edmondson believes his experience in city government and community life is serving him well.

“It helps that I am surrounded by a lot of smart people on the city staff,” he said. “They know what they are doing.”

He’s committed to making the most of his time in leadership.

“My heart is in LaGrange,” he said. “I’m going to give it my very best.”

LaGrange Art Museum Celebrates Sixtieth Anniversary

From a living room sprang an art museum. Sixty years ago a gathering of Troup County citizens met in the living room of Joyce Jackson (mother of Chamber member and dentist John Jackson, grandmother to dentist John Morgan Jackson) to begin the process of incorporating what would ultimately become today’s LaGrange Art Museum (LAM). In celebration of the Museum’s 60th anniversary, here are some interesting facts worth sharing.

First a Jail

Most everyone who has lived in the area any length of time knows that the Museum building was erected in 1892 as the Troup County Jail. A less-known fact is that the foundation of the building was made of stone from the local McKemie Quarry. The foundation project was overseen by noted local builder George King, the son of Horace King, the well-known African American designer and builder who is particularly known for his bridges.

A Myth Disproven

The large beams still visible in the ceiling of the second floor were not used for hangings, as urban legend has it. Gallows were actually built within the cellblock corridor. Five hangings were held from 1901 to 1918.

A Collaborative Spirit

LAM is the only art museum within a 50-mile radius of LaGrange. It works collaboratively with the art department and gallery at Columbus State University, LaGrange College’s Lamar Dodd Center, the Cochran Gallery and Cochran Collection owners, the local artists’ guild “Visual Artists Alliance of LaGrange”, Junior Service League, Trustbuilding, Pathways, CASA, Headstart, the Troup and Meriwether County School Systems, and the Chamber of Commerce.

Education for All

LAM provides so many educational programs – such as after-school art classes for ages 5- teens; adult art classes; 3-day painting workshops; and cooking classes in our demonstration kitchen.

Thanks to the Junior Service League, the Museum provides free art activities every third Saturday of the month and JSL also subsidizes the tuition-based summer art camp for ages 3- high school.

Admission to the Museum is free for all Troup County residents and a donation is suggested for those outside the county. Visitors are most grateful for this free access.

LAM has provided an outreach program for five years that combines improving literacy through the arts. It has been funded by the Georgia Council for the Arts and has been delivered at two elementary schools in Meriwether County and one in Troup County.

Art education, both at the museum and in our off-campus programs, is its focus. Art is not just something pretty to look at but it is a powerful tool that is used to address community and global challenges.

The Cheers Bar of Museums

The board and staff strive to be approachable and welcoming, which cannot be said about all museums. The goal is for the museum to be like television’s “Cheers” bar, where everyone knows your name. The 60th anniversary mantra is “You Belong Here.”

Student Projects

The museum staff knows the end of a semester is nearing when procrastinating post-secondary school students come to work on an art assignment. Students come from LaGrange College, Point University, West Georgia Tech, Southern Union, Auburn University and Columbus State University.

Claims to Fame

Each spring the Kiwanis, the Morrill Hutchinson Family and others along with LAM host the Creative Youth Art League, an exhibition of student art from public and private schools and home schools from five counties. Over 600 students, teachers and families came to see this year’s exhibition.

The LaGrange Southeast Regional brings artists and their followers to LaGrange every other year. A peer review by the Georgia Council for the Arts commended LAM for continuing to put on the Southeast Regional, which is a major undertaking. In 2022 the Regional featured 117 works from 80 artists from eight Southern states. The Regional began in 1964 and has a featured juror who selects the work from hundreds of entries. This exhibition provides the citizens of West Georgia and East Alabama access to current artistic practice; offers artists exhibition

opportunities and purchase possibilities; and affords the LaGrange Art Museum and the Lamar Dodd Art Center a means to purchase significant pieces of contemporary American art, thanks to the Callaway Foundation, Inc.

Every autumn the Museum hosts the very popular local artists’ exhibition. Residents also appreciate the opportunity to support the artists by purchasing art.

Birdwatching in Traffic

The public response to artist Dennis Bugg’s bird mural on LAM’s exterior wall has been delightful. This may seem minor compared to big picture accomplishments in our community but this mural has given so much joy to so many at a time in our world when everyone can use a shot of happy. It is safe to say everyone loves birds and watching an artist create art. The bald eagle has a 23-foot wing span. The 10th and final bird is taking flight now - a hummingbird. Come take a selfie!

Caretakers of History

LAM has the tremendous responsibility for caring for one of the most iconic and historic buildings in the city. Anyone who has owned a 130-year-old building or home knows that they devour money, money that the Museum must raise. LAM also provides and cares for a little pocket park behind the main museum building. It is a peaceful respite in the heart of downtown and a very popular location for memorymaking photography sessions and quiet lunches.

An Economic Driver

LAM contributes significantly to the region’s economic development. Individuals and corporations/industries considering a move to LaGrange-Troup County always report that the thriving cultural arts scene is a big draw. Over 50 percent of its visitors are from outside LaGrange-Troup County. Tourism is economic development. Cultural and heritage tourists stay longer and spend more than general tourists. One study revealed that the cultural tourist spends 38% more per day and stays 22% longer than the average traveler. Also, cultural travelers take one more trip than the average traveler and are more likely to share their experience with friends and on social media.

Counting on Sixty More Years

Donors make it possible for LAM to connect our diverse community with visual arts and educational experiences. They will be the visionaries who give art education to the community for 60 more years. Just as those nine men and women did in June of 1963.

FIND THE RIGHT PHYSICIAN FOR YOU.

Olumuyiwa Adeboye, MD, MBBCH

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Michael Bakarich, DO OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY

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Joy Baker, MD, FACOG, PMH-C, C-EFM, MT (ASCP)

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Cameron Body, MD GASTROENTEROLOGY

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Brett Bowie, MD OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY

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Nchang Taka, MD CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICINE

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Robert Taylor, MD, PhD RADIATION ONCOLOGY 111 Medical Drive LaGrange, GA 30240 (706) 845-3544

Karin Whitlock Taylor, MD, FAAPMR REHABILITATION MEDICINE

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MOVERS, SHAKERS, RISK-TAKERS

Adams speaks at Medicare Conference Abide Home Care Brings Home 3 Awards

Troup County Career Center recognizes Dr. Bowen

On April 12th, Kami Adams, of Creative Legacy Group, spoke to over 1,000 fellow Medicare agents in at MedicareCon in Las Vegas. She spoke about marketing ideas and how to help more clients in the Medicare space. She helps seniors every day to find the plans that fit best with clients’ needs.

Her new office is located at 119 Ridley Ave. Suite 104 (Colonial Building) LaGrange, Ga 30240.

In January, Abide Home Care received three awards, including the Leader in Experience 2023, Provider of Choice 2023, and the Employer of Choice 2023. These awards are presented by Home Care Pulse where results are calculated nationwide. It is rare that a location receives all three of these awards at one time.

Additionally, the Leader in Experience award is only given to those who receive both of the other awards and means that we rank in the top 15% in the nation. Here at home, Abide was also recognized in Troup County's Best of the Best for 2023.

Troup County Career Center (TC3) is proud to recognize Dr. Kathy Bowen for her tireless dedication to Troup County School System students as a leader with Troup County Career Center. A Troup County native, Dr. Bowen has a strong service-oriented background and is focused on student success in college and career planning at the high school level.

Dr. Bowen's commitment to student success is evident in her work leading a data-driven instructional team at TC3. She goes above and beyond to ensure that each student has a plan for academic, social, and career success, including the implementation of Accelerated Career Diploma programs as designed by the State of Georgia Department of Education.

Brandon Adams has been named new General Manager of Airforce Heating and Air. Previously, Adams served as the VP of Operations and oversaw the administrative function of the organization. Adams started in 2018 as Marketing Manager and has advanced as the company grew from 20 employees to over 65 employees to date and helped to lead the company through a total of three acquisitions. In his new role, Brandon will oversee the entire organization’s daily operations and will drive growth while expanding the company into other markets regionally.

FPC Montessori Preschool and Kindergarten has been blessed by some amazing staff over the years. However, this year we are celebrating the retirement announcement of two teachers who have had a tremendous impact in the lives of countless children over the years. These teachers have worked together and will be leaving behind our Blue primary room. Ms. Teresa Czarnonycz has worked for our program for 28 years. Betty Kennedy has worked for the school for over 17 years.

In addition to her work at TC3, Dr. Bowen is also involved behind the scenes in several community organizations, including the Lagrange Development Authority, Troup County Schools YAPWBL programs, and West Georgia Technical College teams for student success. Her knowledge of resources and ability to connect the dots has been instrumental in the success of these programs. As an administrator at TC3, Dr. Bowen's dedication to her students and community within TC3 has not gone unnoticed.

Czarnonycz & Kennedy Retire from FPC Montessori

Adams Promoted to General Manager of Airforce Heating & Air

Phase Two Begins: WGTC Welcomes Delta GSE to LaGrange

West Georgia Technical College (WGTC) recently welcomed Delta Airlines’ Ground Support Equipment (Delta GSE) division to the College’s Regional Workforce Training Center on the LaGrange campus to begin the next phase of their ongoing partnership.

WGTC and Delta GSE announced their initial partnership in early 2022 after the College was selected to provide skills gap assessments for Delta GSE employees. Since then, WGTC Precision Manufacturing and Maintenance instructors have performed assessments on over 650 existing Delta GSE employees from across the U.S.

The assessments provided Delta GSE data that showed specific skill gaps in their existing nationwide workforce at multiple airport locations where Delta Airlines operates throughout the United States. At the completion of the skills assessments in November of 2022, and after further analysis of the data by Delta GSE, it was found that follow-up training was in the best interest of its employees to become more proficient at maintaining ground support equipment at all airports serviced by Delta Airlines.

“It is an honor to partner with Delta

Airlines,” WGTC Assistant Vice President of Economic Development Steve Cromer said. “After assessing Delta GSE employees, we were able to design an accelerated training program to enable the employees to become more proficient in their highly technical roles. The partnership between WGTC and Delta GSE highlights the mission of the Technical College System of Georgia and will ensure a well-prepared and betterequipped workforce in the short term and for years to come.”

Delta GSE employees work behind the scenes to help keep Delta’s global airline operation running smoothly by performing preventive maintenance and repairs for the huge fleet of vehicles and equipment responsible for things such as refueling and towing airplanes, luggage conveyor belt systems, de-icing airplanes, and transporting passengers.

In phase two of the partnership, approximately 800 Delta GSE employees will receive customized training from WGTC instructors in the areas of mechanical systems, electrical systems, motor controls, programmable logic control systems, and hydraulic systems. Since January 2023, Delta has sent approximately 10 to 12 Delta GSE employees every week from across the

nation to WGTC’s Regional Workforce Training Center in LaGrange for training. The employees attend multiple weeks of the training program to sufficiently cover all the identified skills gap areas. The training is scheduled to continue into 2024.

“We are honored to be tasked with training Delta GSE employees and excited to welcome them to LaGrange,” said WGTC president Dr. Julie Post. “This partnership allows us to provide pathways for these employees to grow professionally and reinforces our reputation as a premier provider of skilled employees with advanced technical training.”

Delta’s managing director of airport operations, Azeem Mistry, said he hopes the partnership will be the start of many more things to come as the company continues to come out of the last three years of the pandemic.

“The secret sauce of Delta has always been investment and growth,” Mistry said. “Our value proposition is truly improving the quality of lives of our people and the communities that we serve, and this partnership is a fitting example of that. This is going to be one of those investments that we make in the future community.”

Writing a Diversity & Inclusion Statement: HOW TO GET IT RIGHT

ADiversity and inclusion statement is a great starting point for small businesses seeking to improve the experience of both employees and customers. D&I are authentic to each business's mission, goals, and values, so leveraging employees to help create the statement is vital.

Your D&I statement demonstrates a commitment to building an inclusive workplace welcoming to people of all backgrounds. Like a mission and values statement, the diversity and inclusion statement is more than just a marketing exercise. It should guide your hiring, employee benefits, customer service, and workplace culture.

What is the purpose of a D&I statement?

First, it's important to understand what you can accomplish with this document. Authenticity must be at the very foundation of your statement. Authenticity creates a path for everyone and a direction. If you just slap together buzzwords, there may be nothing to anchor into or connect with. Embody your commitment to diversity in your

culture rather than it just being a statement. Leverage your time, energy, and resources to create results.

A clear strategy should contain what diversity, equity, and inclusion means to us, why DEI matters to us (now and for the future), and how we approach DEI (now and in planned activities).

These statements serve a larger purpose. They show how businesses plan to represent their community and how they view equality as a human issue, not a political one. It signals to potential customers, community members, and employees what the business stands for and who and how it intends to serve the community.

A great D&I statement triangulates with your company's mission, vision, and values. What do you want to say about your business, and what do you want employees and customers to know about your values?

What goes into a D&I statement?

Because each statement is unique to the business, there's no template or checklist for what should go in your diversity and inclusion statement. Connect with what your vision looks like—describe it, define

it. From there, the action steps will reveal themselves.

Many small business owners find starting with a vision and building an action plan helpful. Create a 90-day action plan, a one-year plan, and a three-year plan, each including internal activities, such as training and public-facing commitments, like volunteering or community events. Look at how diverse, equitable, and inclusive your processes are. This allows you to leverage your resources to create a ripple effect rather than working through each individual in your organization.

Avoid these common mistakes: Some organizations overcomplicate their D&I statement. It doesn't need to be longer than a page because what matters is the action that stems from the statement. Some businesses make the mistake of not leveraging time, energy, and resources behind the statement. Revisit the statement and strategy at least once a year, if not more often, to reiterate your commitment and make sure all employees are aligned. Implement some KPIs to measure the statement and strategy's success.

More information is available at https:// www.uschamber.com/diversity

“Remember to look up at the sky and not down at your feet. Try to make sense of what you see and wonder about what makes the universe exist. Be curious. And however difficult life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at. It matters that you don’t just give up.”

- Stephen Hawking

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EARLY BIRD BREAKFAST FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

In February, the Early Bird featured speaker was John Homes, President of Atlas Turf International. He shared some of their recent projects, notably providing turf for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

In March, recently retired LaGrange Police Chief Lou Dekmar spoke to our Early Bird crowd about the initiatives that the police department has put in place for crime prevention in LaGrange and about his time as police chief.

In April, we heard from Stuart Countess, President and CEO of Kia Georgia on the unveiling of their newest electric vehicle, to be manufactured at their West Point Plant.

April Gold & Registration Sponsors

March Gold & Registration Sponsors

Presented by

February Gold & Registration Sponsors

The Chamber's Small Business Committee debuted “The Morning Brew”, a program designed specifically for small businesses. Dr. Kelly Veal with The Veal Group was our featured guest. These hands-on workshops will help business owners run their business more efficiently and effectively as well as introduce them to resources available to help them succeed.

SAFETY COUNCIL

MEMBER ORIENTATION

The Troup County Safety Council received an OSHA update from Jeffery Stawowy, Atlanta West Area Director, US Department of Labor. Special thanks to our registration sponsor, Pike Consulting Group.

Designed with our new or re-engaging members in mind, New Member Orientation is an interactive opportunity to learn more about the events, programs, alliances, costsaving benefits, and development opportunities that are exclusively available to LaGrange-Troup County Chamber members!

MINORITY BUSINESS ACCELERATOR PROGRAM

As part of the Chamber’s ongoing support for the Minority Business Accelerator program, members of the inaugural cohort attended their first training session at the end of March. Derek Woodham, West Region Manager & Regional Group Leader with the Georgia Manufacturing Extension Partnership (GaMEP) at Georgia Tech, presented a program on strategic planning. Along with tools to support the process, Derek, who is also a small business owner, shared the importance of working “on” the business not just “in” the business. Additional programs planned this year include sessions on money and metrics, talent and networking, and sales and marketing.

Long Live Tattoo & Gallery 1 SE. Lafayette Sq., LaGrange Chop House Axe Throwing

Legacy Vapes 104 Sage Commercial Dr., LaGrange

Panelists at the first quarter State of the Community Luncheon included Bill Hunnicutt, Executive Director of the Downtown LaGrange Development Authority, and Vicki Brown of the Hogansville Development Authority. They discussed upcoming projects and downtown development within both cities

CHAMBER DIPLOMATS

Diplomats are community leaders who volunteer their time and leverage their skills to work together to build relationships with other members, both new and established. They support the Chamber’s mission by helping to grow and maintain a strong membership base through activities that promote member recruitment, engagement and retention. Diplomats commit to attending monthly meetings and assisting at member events. Participation in the Diplomat program is application based and open to members who have been active for at least 90 days.

THANK YOU TO OUR 2023 DIPLOMATS

Kim Banks Renasant Bank

Steve Boatner Edward Jones, Lafayette Parkway

Bret Bryant New York Life and NYLIFE Securities

Britney Buchanan Country Financial - Britney Buchanan Agency

Jennifer Emery JYEmeryArt, LLC

Cody Hammock Auto Gallery Chevrolet Buick GMC

Andie Kinsey Synovus

Otto Korth Sons of Lafayette Male Choir

Alisa Matheny

Coldwell Banker Spinks Brown Durand Realtors

Cliff Meeks 100 Black Men of West Ga

Michael Ott Knox Pest Control

Yvonne Pittman Bikel Frenelle Realty

Pam Reeves Creative Legacy Group

Mack Reynolds Mack Reynolds Realty, LLC

Ricky Rodriguez Renasant Bank

Aimee Schmidt Milliken & Co.

Ellen Smith Volunteer

Bobby Traylor Volunteer

Presented by

In June of 2007, leaders in Troup County and the cities of LaGrange, West Point, and Hogansville kicked off a strategic planning initiative to create a framework for sustainable development.

The goal was to develop innovative strategies for promoting quality growth, fostering healthy economic development, enhancing overall quality of life, and protecting Troup County’s natural environment, sense of place and community. This still rings true today, as we continue our efforts in securing a brighter and prosperous future for Troup County and its residents.

Troup Strategy Center (formerly known as Troup County Center for Strategic Planning) was officially incorporated on August 24, 2009 and approved as a 501c(3) corporation under the Internal Revenue Code on May 25, 2010.

MISSION:

Our Mission is to provide strategic leadership on key opportunities that will improve the quality of life and well being for all residents of Troup County.

VISION:

Our Vision is to create a unified Troup County that is the most vibrant, flourishing and inclusive county in the State of Georgia.

www.troupstrategy.com

/troupstrategycenter

A Strategic Plan for Troup County

Troup County Center for Strategic Planning is shifting in a major way. After rigorous review and invaluable feedback from our Core Team, Board and community members, we are now known as Troup Strategy Center. Our new name represents a fresh approach with an even fresher brand, that more closely aligns with our latest initiative, The Shift Forward. We are thrilled with the momentum we’re gaining in securing a bright and prosperous future for Troup County.

1,600+ Total Participants

65 Inter views

2 Online Sur veys

1,060 Reponses to Community Sur vey

601 Responses to Millennial/GenZ Sur vey

Development of The Shift Forward, a strategic plan to guide the county into the future, was led by Troup Strategy Center, the Board of Directors and the organization’s Executive Director. The process involved many hours of stakeholder engagement with members of the Board as well as many other stakeholders from the public and private sectors, outlined below.

STRATEGY

CREATE

FOSTER

Top of the Crop: All About the Troup County FFA

The Troup County Local Future Farmers of America (FFA) Chapter consists of approximately 150 members from different demographics. The program has a wide variety of different pathway areas including Animal Science, Agricultural Mechanics, Wildlife, Forestry, Floral Design, and Horticulture which caters to all students. The goal of the program is to give students hands-on experience that will prepare them for the workforce.

Blessed with numerous leadership opportunities, the students have been able to arrange flowers for the First Lady in Washington, D.C. for the Congressional Club as well as work with the Army Corps of Engineers at West Point Lake through service programs.

The program encourages students to develop a Supervised Agricultural Experience Program (SAE) to develop their skills and broaden their horizon. Every student is required to spend 10 hours actively participating in something agriculture related, whether that is working at a local feed store or creating their own landscape business.

There are currently two students competing at the Georgia FFA State Convention on April 27-29 in their SAE. Jacob Bearden is competing in Agricultural Sales Placement on his SAE at Lee’s Crossing Feed and Farm and Emma Walker is competing in Diversified Horticulture Operations.

In addition, there are seven students receiving their Georgia FFA State Degree. These students are Owen Everingham, Cassie Wade, Caroline

McInvale, Noah Forbes, Levi Colwell, and Lexi Miley. These students have been in the agricultural program for at least two years, have invested at least $1,000 or worked 300 hours in excess of scheduled class time, have spent at least 25 hours of community service projects, demonstrated leadership abilities, participated in at least five different FFA activities, and have a satisfactory school scholastic record. Through the program, the students have learned the importance of community and networking with industry professionals through programs such as Troup County Cattlemen’s Association and Troup County Young Farmers & Ranchers program. Passing on their knowledge is also part of the Troup County FFA Experience. The group spends numerous hours at local elementary schools such Rosemont Elementary and Hollis Hand; providing students with opportunities to increase their agricultural literacy by donating agricultural children’s books or assisting preparation for raised beds.

It is the hope that every student that comes through the program finds an interest that suits them and develops a powerful resume. Troup County FFA is heavily supported by the community; parterning with Diverse Power, Troup County Farm Bureau, Landscape Supply of Lagrange, Waldroup Dairy, and the local 4H.

Shelby Waldroup, Agricultural Educator for Troup County High School, hopes to create contributing members of society that will invest back in our community, stating, "That is what FFA is about!"

5 Strategies for Effectively Branding a Small Business

Branding is an essential aspect of any business, regardless of its size or industry. Branding is the process of creating a unique identity for your business that sets it apart from competitors and helps it connect with its target audience. For small businesses, branding can be particularly important as it helps to establish credibility and trust with potential customers. Here are five key strategies for effective branding that small businesses can use to create a strong and memorable brand:

1. Define your brand identity

Before you start any branding activities, it's important to have a clear understanding of your brand identity. This includes defining your company's values, mission, vision, and target audience. By knowing what your brand stands for and who it's aimed at, you can create a brand that resonates with your target customers and sets you apart from competitors. It can be helpful in this process to create customer personas. Imagine some of your best customers and create a persona for them. Give them a name, age, gender, income, hobbies, family, and style. Do this for three to five customers or clients and you will have a great idea who to target with your branding and marketing initiatives.

2. Develop a consistent brand image

Consistency is key when it comes to branding. Your brand image should be consistent across all your marketing materials, including your website, social media profiles, business cards, and advertisements. This helps to create a recognizable brand that customers can trust and identify with.

Creating a brand guidelines document can help with consistency. In a brand guideline, you will want to include your logo and any iterations of it along with how it should be used. What are your brand colors and other complementary colors that can be used? What fonts should be used? This will help you stay consistent as employees or marketing partners use your brand in different types of media.

3. Use storytelling to connect with customers

Customers are more likely to connect with a brand that tells a compelling story. Storytelling allows you to communicate your brand's values and mission in a way that resonates with your audience. It can also help to create an emotional connection with your customers, which can lead to brand loyalty.

Going back to the customer personas, create compelling stories that will resonate with your target customers. Utilize your existing customers or clients to help, by soliciting reviews and feedback through customer surveys.

4. Engage with your customers on social media

Social media is a powerful tool for branding, particularly for small businesses. It provides a platform for you to engage with your customers, share your brand's story, and showcase your products or services. By creating valuable content and responding to customer inquiries, you can build a loyal following that will help to spread the word about your brand. Consistency is key with social media. Even if you can only post once a week, it's better to post consistently than to post three times one week and not post again for a month. Use scheduling tools to batch posts and schedule them out for weeks or a month at a time.

5. Measure your branding efforts

Finally, it's important to measure the success of your branding efforts. This can be done through metrics such as website traffic, social media engagement, or customer feedback. By tracking these KPIs, you can identify areas where your branding strategy is working well and areas that may need improvement.

Effective branding is crucial for small businesses looking to establish themselves in a competitive marketplace. By defining your brand identity, developing a consistent brand image, using storytelling to connect with customers, engaging with customers on social media, and measuring your branding efforts, you can create a strong and memorable brand that resonates with your target audience.

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