Thomasville GA Community Profile

6 LOCATOR MAP Miles from Thomasville, Georgia

8 INTRODUCTION Southern Grace and a Modern Charm 9 Welcome 10 Southern Pizzazz

18 A T A G L A N C E Facts & Information

24 H I S T O R Y Thriving Through the Centuries 25 History of Thomas County 28 Businesses Making History

32 E D U C A T I O N Learning is a Priority 33 Thomas County Schools 39 Thomasville City Schools 40 Continuing a Tradition of Excellence: Southwest Georgia Technical College

41 Thomas University 44 Thomas County’s Outstanding Public Library System

46 G O V E R N M E N T Who, What, When & Where 47 48 50 50 50 51

Thomas County City of Thomasville Thomasville Police Department Thomasville Fire Rescue Utilities CNS: High-Speed for the Deep South

52 H O M E S No Place Like Home

58 M E D I C A L Where Your Health is in Good Hands 59 Archbold Hospital

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Darlene K. Taylor-Owner Taylor Benefit Resource, Georgia House of Representatives, District 173

Taylor Benefit Resource Administers: • Self-funded Health Insurance Plans • Fully Insured Plans • Flexible Spending Accounts • COBRA Plans • Vision Plans • Dental Plans • Disability Plans • Consolidated Billing Services

Excellence in Benefit Management 164 Commercial Drive | Thomasville, Georgia 31757 P 229.225.9943 | F 229.225.9945 | www.tbrtpa.com TABLE OF CONTENTS d

Thomasville • Thomas County • Georgia

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68 R E T I R E M E N T Come for a Visit...Come to Stay 69 69 70 71 71 71 72 72 73

Come for a Visit Location, Location, Location Entrepreneurial Community Culture Climate Inside Out Fit for Life A Place Apart Get Involved Come to Stay

74 A R T S & C U L T U R E Bringing the Arts to Life 75 An Evening of Music & Dance 76 Thomasville Center for the Arts 76 Thomasville Entertainment Foundation

78 D O W N T O W N & T O U R I S M Southern Destination of Distinction 79 Architecture Respected 80 Southern Land 82 Fun Facts About Thomasville, Georgia

86 R E C R E A T I O N Enjoy Leisure Time Activities 87 History of the Thomasville YMCA 91 Country Oaks Golf Course

92 W O R S H I P Faith that Endures

94 E C O N O M I C D E V E L O P M E N T Where Business is Our History 95 96 100 102 105

Growing Economy – Sound Fiscal Investment Pro-Business Attitude Fuels Growth Financial Services Local Fresh Fare Unique Transportation Options for Industry

106 E - C O M M E R C E Online to Succeed...with the Click of a Mouse 107 Internet Solutions for Business and Beyond

108 I N D E X O F A D V E R T I S E R S

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This magazine is dedicated to Donald P. Sims, Chamber President and Economic Developer for 24 years. His dedication to Thomas County and the surrounding area is exemplary. Due to Don’s economic development leadership, many businesses and industries have relocated to Thomas County.

His encouragement of collaboration between the public and private sectors created a welcoming environment that allowed Thomasville and Thomas County to become the business center for an expanding five county area.

Thomasville-Thomas County CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development is pleased to offer this quality magazine. Since 1921, the Chamber has worked with dedication and pride to promote the business community and address the needs of businesses and industries located in Thomas County.

The area is a pleasing mix of rich heritage, striking beauty, civic pride and a strong economic climate. The Chamber is privileged to work with over 700 member businesses and professionals who form a strong partnership in economic development. The Chamber, local government and public/private sectors are dedicated to sustaining a vital business climate and enhancing the quality of life for all the citizens of Thomasville and Thomas County.

This is a Village Profile® Publication created and produced for the Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 560 (31799-0560) • 401 S. Broad Street • Thomasville, GA 31792 Phone: (229) 226-9600 • Fax: (229) 226-9603 Website: www.thomasvillechamber.com • Email: chamber@rose.net Find Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce on Facebook

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Copyright© 2013 VillageProfile.com, inc.® 33 N. Geneva St., Elgin, IL 60120 • 800-600-0134 www.villageprofile.com® Every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of the information in this publication.

The Chamber and VillageProfile.com® assume no responsibility for misinformation.

Please contact the Chamber with any additions or corrections. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of the Chamber and VillageProfile.com® is prohibited.

CEO/President Daniel M. Nugara Executive Vice President Joseph C. Nugara, Sr. Director of Business Operations Michael D. Nugara Vice President Gordy Swinehart Acquisition Manager Ginger Nunley Project Coordinator Jodie Stackowiak Director of Production Joseph C. Nugara, Jr. Production Manager Nick Olah Graphic Designer Kirsten Riedl

Graphic Production Stacey R. Cordero Directories Coordinator Michael Sumrak Ad Design Coordinator Kerri Reaves Writers Chamber & Contributors Artist Pen & Ink Big Oak Tree Janie Brock Photo Credits Robert Burns Porter Photography, Thomasville Magazine Historic Photos Thomas County Historical Society/Thomasville GA

Cover Design by: Jim Spangler, World AXIS Group, Creative Marketing Solutions, Thomasville, Georgia This publication is produced on paper that contains recycled content and is printed with 100% green inks that do not contain solvents and are free of volatile organic compounds (VOC). Our printer, Sutherland Companies of Montezuma, IA has eliminated the use of film and film processing and utilizes aqueous plates, alcohol substitutes and waste recovery programs. Sutherland Companies also holds environmental permits issued by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and works with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) licensed handlers.

CONFERENCE CENTER

Quality Inn • Free Hot Breakfast • Free Wifi • Free local calls • Executive Suites • Meeting Rooms • Groups Welcome • Fitness Room 15138 US Highway 19 S Thomasville, GA 31757 Phone: (229) 225-2134 www.QualityInn.com

EconoLodge • Free Local Calls • Free Wifi • Free Continental Breakfast • 1 Bedroom Suite Available • Great Rates

15130 US Highway 19 S Thomasville, GA 31757 Phone: (229) 584-0909 www.EconoLodge.com TABLE OF CONTENTS d

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75

40

Nashville 40

40

Knoxville

65

NORTH CAROLINA

Ashville

75

Charlotte

24

TENNESSEE

Chattanooga

77 85

95

26

Florence

SOUTH CAROLINA 20

MISSISSIP PI

75

Columbia

59

Atlanta Birmingham 82

Augusta

20

20

26

ALABAMA

Charleston

Macon

65

19

185 20

95 16

Columbus

85

Montgomery

Savannah

75

82

GEORGIA

520 300

Albany Dothan

84

65

Tifton

82

3

27

319 163

Thomasville # 84 10

Mobile Pensacola

Waycross

95

Jacksonville

Valdosta

75

231 163

98

Atlantic Ocean

84

231 163

84

10

Tallahassee 19 Panama City

Perry

Lake City St. Augustine

98

FLORIDA Daytona Beach

Ocala Flo ri d

Gulf of Mexico

75

4 a 's

Tu

Beeline Expwy e pik

Orlando

rn

19

95

Tampa

MILES FROM THOMASVILLE, GEORGIA ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Atlanta, GA......................................................................230 Savannah, GA.................................................................212 Macon, GA......................................................................150 Columbus, GA .................................................................148 Valdosta, GA .....................................................................46 Tallahassee, FL ..................................................................34 Panama City, FL ..............................................................132 Orlando, FL......................................................................254 Tampa, FL ........................................................................271

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Jacksonville, FL................................................................154 Charleston, SC ................................................................316 Nashville, TN ....................................................................471 Memphis, TN....................................................................530 Chattanooga, TN ............................................................350 Dothan, AL.......................................................................100 Birmingham, AL ...............................................................298 Mobile, AL .......................................................................285 New Orleans, LA ..............................................................431

New Hire Solutions Providing People & Positions

A Full Service Staffing Company Offering Temporary and Permanent Staffing - Drug Testing Criminal Background Investigations Previous Employment Verification Workers Compensation Payroll Services

Employment Opportunities • Medical • Administrative • Clerical • Professional • Sales • Manufacturing • Skilled Labor • Technical • Drivers • Labor Construction

174 Big Star Drive-Thomasville GA 31757 Phone: 229-227-9003 Fax: 229-227-9036 LOC ATOR MAP d

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SOUTHERN GRACE AND A MODERN CHARM

elcome to one of the best resources you will find to better acquaint yourself with Thomasville and Thomas County, Georgia. This magazine is a way for you to understand and feel how we blend the old and the new into southern grace and modern charm.

As you turn the pages, we invite you to become a part of this award-winning community. Read about the people, the thriving businesses and industry, the outstanding schools, the superb recreational facilities, and the stimulating environment for living, working and raising a family. It is an overview of our rich history and our strong future.

Without losing sight of its strong historical heritage and its commitment to preserve the environment, the city and county continue to move forward in a progressive manner to provide the quality of life its residents have come to expect.

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Whether you are looking to relocate or just traveling through, this is a wonderful destination. If you come to Thomas County as a new resident, we are especially happy to welcome you. You will find that we are small enough for one person to make a difference but big enough to offer a wide variety of amenities for a richer life.

The area offers a relaxed lifestyle where people are cordial and honest, adopting a strong work ethic and taking pride in the community. If you are visiting, we know that you will enjoy the experience of our old south charm mixed with new south vitality. Our amenities are only secondary to the friendly and helpful people you will meet.

Residents and visitors all agree that Thomasville and Thomas County is one of the most desirable destinations in the south!

Southern Pizzazz

In the “red hills� region of southwest Georgia, there is an enchanting place. It is a place where time has not quite stood still, but where it has moved forward without leaving behind its grand past. It is a place of great natural beauty possessing a rich and fascinating history. It is a place apart. It is Thomasville, Georgia.

Forged from vast forests of virgin pine, Thomasville has evolved from a pioneer village in the early 1800s, to a posh winter resort later in that century, and today a cultural and progressive city that offers a high-standard quality of life in the 21st century.

Slightly off the beaten path, Thomasville is located just 25 miles north of Tallahassee, Florida via U.S. 319 and just 40 miles west of Valdosta, Georgia by way of U.S. 84. This great location places the city within 30 minutes of I-10 and I-75.

An exciting year-round destination, the area plays host to several festivals, including the annual Rose Festival, the elegant Downtown Victorian Christmas celebration, the Antique Show, Wildlife Arts Festival, Fly-In, Horse Trials and many sporting events.

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think Thomasville is a most delightful winter home…with your clear skies and bright sunshine, winter loses its terrors. Situated as it is in a charming, rolling country, amid the great pine forests of South Georgia, the disagreeable weather of some parts of the country are largely unknown. With the fine drives, beautiful flowers and balmy air, the attractions of outdoor life are very enticing. Business, I suppose, is temporarily forgotten by many visitors. There is no hurry or excitement to interfere with rest and enjoyment, but still all may find plenty to amuse and occupy their vacation. Rest and recreation go hand-in-hand. The future of Thomasville is very promising.” ~ President William McKinley

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Tourist attractions abound, and history buffs will be in heaven as they explore historic plantations such as Pebble Hill and the Lapham-Patterson House – a Victorian architectural masterpiece. The Thomas County Museum of History offers vast collections of local memorabilia, life on the plantations and other important artifacts.

The Center for the Arts, which is housed in an awardwinning renovation project of a 1915 school building, serves as a regional center for the visual and performing arts. Programs include plays, art exhibits, traveling author series and workshops for aspiring artists in an array of mediums.

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Shopping Thomasville’s renowned historic downtown is a necessity, as it offers specialty shops with a delightful assortment of merchants – from fine clothiers to antiques, or enjoy local cuisine to fine dining. Thomasville’s downtown is an award-winning Great American Main Street City, and serves as an example to other cities throughout the country.

The city also boasts of several shopping centers with national chain retailers and locally owned stores, offering everything from apparel and accessories to home décor to a day at the spa. The smaller outlying communities are largely agricultural and grow fresh fruits, vegetables and grains. Local farmers offer free range, all natural pork, award-winning cheeses, pecans off the trees and premium grass fed beef that is locally processed. Products are available in their stores or online.

Thomasville is home to several Fortune 500 companies, and its largest employer, John D. Archbold Memorial Hospital, was named one of the top 50 hospitals in the nation by U.S. News & World Report magazine. The economy of the area is strong and varied, and manufacturing and distribution centers make their homes in the city’s two industrial parks.

Recreational facilities are unsurpassed with two YMCAs, tennis courts, public and private golf courses and an outstanding softball, baseball, soccer and football complex.

The city also has several private health clubs and a lighted walking trail around Lake Cherokee.

For the outdoorsman, several hunting preserves in and around Thomas County offer a range of sport hunting – including pheasant, duck, deer, dove and the elusive and popular bob white quail.

Championship skeet is available for those wishing to sharpen their marksmanship skills.

Thomasville’s close proximity to Florida’s Gulf Coast attracts the avid deep water fishermen, while the beautiful emerald beaches beckon everyone.

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For higher education, Thomas University offers a wide range of degree programs, including master’s programs. Southwest Georgia Technical College is a state-of-the-art institution with many degree and certificate programs in the medical field, service industries and computers. The community is also home to an outstanding public library system and university library.

City, County and private school systems offer pre-kindergarten programs to college preparatory classes. All schools have active extracurricular programs – from drama to athletics.

There are more than 100 houses of worship in Thomasville and Thomas County, representing just about every religious affiliation. Civic clubs and volunteer organizations figure prominently in the community and offer individuals the opportunity to be active in service and social organizations.

Neighborhoods in Thomasville range from historic streets lined with Victorian homes to townhouse developments on the fringe of Glen Arven Country Club. There are quiet, family-oriented neighborhoods and developments with retirees in mind. In Thomasville, it is still common to borrow a cup of sugar or engage in friendly conversation with a neighbor.

This south Georgia community is truly a place apart, and is the perfect place to raise a family, work or retire.

Prepare to be enchanted by the live oaks, dogwoods, azaleas, roses and – most importantly – the citizens who will prove that southern hospitality is not something you just read about. It is alive and well in Thomasville and Thomas County!

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John Turner Holt William C. Sanders George R. Lilly, II James H. (Hill) Smith Raleigh W. Rollins, Jr. Rachel Cook Beverly J. Renee Hall Oliveto Timothy C. Sanders James A. Garland David E. Wilder Thomas H. Vann, Jr.

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F A C T S & I N F O R M AT I O N

Thomasville City Schools Board of Education 915 East Jackson Street 229-225-2600 www.tcitys.org

GOVERNMENT–LOCAL Thomas County Board of Commissioners Thomas County Courthouse 225 N. Broad Street Board Room & Meeting Rooms, 3rd Floor County Tax Assessors Office, 1st Floor 229-225-4133 Tax Commissioner’s Office Vehicle Registration and Tags, 2nd Floor 229-225-4136 Thomas County Board of Commissioners Commissioners, County Manager, County Clerk & Human Resources Offices 116 W. Jefferson Street 229-225-4100 Thomas County Courts/Voter Registration Thomas County Judicial Center 325 N. Madison 229-225-4101 www.thomascountyboc.org Thomasville City Council and Mayor City Administration Building 111 Victoria Place 229-227-6984 www.rose.net

UTILITIES

TELEPHONE A T & T Georgia Residence • 888-757-6500 Business • 866-620-6000 www.att.com

PRIVATE Brookwood School 301 Cardinal Ridge Road 229-226-8070 www.brookwoodschool.org K-12

CNS Telephone 229-227-7001 www.rose.net

DRIVER’S INFORMATION

Favor Christian Academy 507 North Broad Street 229-228-1700 www.favorchristianacademy.net Pre K-8

Motor Vehicle Department Driver’s License Division 4788 U.S. 84 Bypass 229-227-2500 http://motor.etax.dor.ga.gov/ Tags and Automobile Registration Thomas County Tag Office Thomas County Courthouse 225 N. Broad Street 229-225-4136 A Georgia license tag must be purchased within 30 days of establishing residency.

City of Thomasville Utilities 111 Victoria Place 229-227-7001 www.rose.net Electric Sewer Natural Gas Garbage Water

VOTER REGISTRATION

OTHER THOMAS COUNTY UTILITY PROVIDERS Grady EMC 229-377-4182 www.gradyemc.com Georgia Power 888-655-5888 www.georgiapower.com

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Registration Office 325 N. Madison 229-225-4101 www.thomascountyboc.org/Elections.htm

PUBLIC Thomas County Schools Board of Education 200 North Pinetree Blvd.

229-225-4380 www.thomas.k12.ga.us

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Thomasville Christian School 1040 Glenwood Drive 229-227-1515 www.tcschool.org K-8 PRE-SCHOOL First Baptist Church 210 North Broad Street 229-228-6800 www.firstbaptistonline.com First United Methodist Church 425 North Broad Street 229-226-0840 www.tfumc.com Peanut’s Kiddie Kollege 106 Covington Avenue 229-225-1368 http://home.rose.net/~peanuts/

SCHOOLS

CABLE TV/INTERNET PROVIDERS CNS Cable (fiber optic) 229-227-7001 www.rose.net

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Mediacom 229-226-6111 www.mediacomcc.com

St. Thomas Episcopal Church 216 Remington Avenue 229-226-5202 www.stthomasthomasville.org

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YMCA - Francis Weston 416 West Clay Street 229-226-5205 www.ymca-thomasville.org TECHNICAL – BUSINESS & VOCATIONAL Southwest Georgia Technical College 15689 U.S. Highway 19 North 229-225-4096 www.southwestgatech.edu UNIVERSITY Thomas University 1501 Millpond Road 229-226-1621 www.thomasu.edu

VITAL SERVICES For all emergencies dial 911 City of Thomasville Police 229-227-3249 www.thomasville.org Thomas County Sheriff’s Department 229-225-3300 www.thomascountyboc.org Georgia State Highway Patrol 229-225-4000 http://dps.georgia.gov/

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HOSPITAL John D. Archbold Memorial Hospital Gordon Avenue at Mimosa Drive 229-228-2000 www.archbold.org

MEDICAL PROVIDERS All Archbold locations - www.archbold.org Archbold Urgent Care 2705 East Pinetree Boulevard 229-228-4136 Archbold Home Health Services 400 Old Albany Road 229-228-2200 Archbold Northside Center 401 Old Albany Road 229-228-8100 Archbold Integrative Medicine Center 2705 East Pinetree Boulevard 229-228-7008 Thomas County Health Department 440 Smith Street 229-226-4241 http://rtn.darton.edu/phirn/

AREA RESOURCES Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce 401 South Broad Street 229-226-9600 www.thomasvillechamber.com Thomasville-Thomas County Economic Development 401 South Broad Street 229-225-1422 www.thomasvillechamber.com Thomasville Visitors Center 144 East Jackson Street in the Municipal Auditorium Building 229-228-7977 • 866-577-3600 www.thomasvillega.com Thomas County Public Library System Main Library Thomasville 201 North Madison Street 229-225-5252 www.tcpls.org Other library locations listed on page 44

THOMASVILLE YMCA LOCATIONS www.ymca-thomasville.org – all locations Butler Mason Youth Center 1304 Remington Avenue 229-226-0133 Everett-Milton Center 103 S Dawson Street 229-226-3446

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ART ORGANIZATIONS Thomasville Center for the Arts 600 East Washington Street 229-226-0588 www.thomasvillearts.org Thomasville Entertainment Foundation 600 East Washington Street 229-226-7404 www.tefconcerts.com Thomasville Music & Drama Troup 427 Covington Avenue 229-558-9470 www.thomasvillemusicanddramatroupe.com

AGENCIES AND SERVICES American Red Cross 509 N. Patterson Street Valdosta, GA 31601 229-242-7404 Valdosta 229-226-2181 local www.redcross.org Boys and Girls Club of Southwest Georgia 219 Fletcher Street 229-228-5155 www.mnw-bgc.org Better Business Bureau Serving Southwest Georgia 500 12th Street Columbus, GA 31901 706-324-0712 http://columbus-ga.bbb.org/ Division of Family and Children Services 438 Smith Avenue 229-225-4005 http://dfcs.dhr.georgia.gov Fellowship of Christian Athletes P.O. Box 466 229-277-9201 www.fca.org/ Georgia Department of Labor 402 North Broad Street 229-225-4033 www.dol.state.ga.us/ Georgia Department of Veteran’s Services 101 South Broad Street 229-225-4050 http://sdvs.georgia.gov/ Goodwill Industries Big Bend 10572 U.S. Highway 19 South 229-558-9020 www.goodwillbigbend.com/ Halcyon Home P.O. Box 1838 229-226-6682 http://home.rose.net/~halcyon/ Hands On Thomas County 144 East Jackson Street 229-226-5200 www.handsonthomascounty.org

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NEWSPAPER

POPULATION

Thomasville Times-Enterprise 106 South Street 229-226-2400 www.timesenterprise.com

City of Thomasville.............................18,413 Thomas County..................................44,720

RECREATION TELEVISION

50 tennis courts, 22 parks, 27 ball fields. Two 18-hole golf courses (one private, one public), YMCA with two facilities featuring state-of-the-art equipment and swimming pools. One-mile lighted walking trail around Lake Cherokee. Also, private country club, skating rink, eight-screen cinema theater and bowling alley. Hunting, fishing and other outdoor recreational sports are available.

WCTV Channel 6 (CBS) Local -125 North Broad Street 229-228-1581 850-893-6666 (Tallahassee) www.wctv.tv WALB Channel 10 (NBC) Local - 127 North Broad Street 229-227-9955 229-446-WALB (Albany) www.walb.com

PETS All cats and dogs in Thomas County are required to have a valid rabies inoculation certification and must wear a valid tag at all times. Thomasville enforces a leash law for dogs.

RADIO Salvation Army 514 North Madison Street 229-226-3772 www.salvationarmyusa.org Social Security Office 1916 Smith Avenue 229-226-5078 www.ssa.gov Southeastern Community Blood Center 2705 East Pinetree Boulevard, Suite D 229-228-9980 www.scbcinfo.org/ Thomasville Community Resource Center 102 Varnedoe Street 229-226-5846 www.tcrconline.org/ Thomas County Family Connections 438 Smith Avenue 229-227-5401 www.gafcp.org United Way of Thomas County 312 North Crawford Street 229-228-0560 www.liveunited.org The Vashti Center 1815 East Clay Street 229-226-4634 www.vashti.org

Clear Channel Broadcasting 229-226-6777 www.clearchannel.com

Thomas County Humane Society 180 Big Star Drive 229-228-0613 www.thomasvillehumane.org

Cumulus Broadcasting 229-227-0449 www.cumulus.com WPAX 229-226-1240 www.wpaxradio.com

Miss Kitty Feline Sanctuary 425 Covington Avenue 229-236-0167 www.misskittysanctuary.org

WTUF 229-225-1063 www.wtufradio.com

ADDITIONAL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

GEOGRAPHIC Thomasville is located 40 miles west of I-75 at Valdosta, GA traveling U.S. Highway 84.

Located 35 miles northeast of I-10 at Tallahassee, FL traveling U.S. Highway 319.

Also 30 miles from I-10 traveling U.S. Highway 19 via Monticello, FL.

Agricultural Extension Office 229-225-4130 Birth and Death Certificates 229-226-4241 Georgia Department of Labor 229-225-4033 Marriage License 229-225-4116

CLIMATE Rainfall - 50 inches annual Mild spring, subtropical summer, warm but pleasant fall and a cool-to-chilly winter.

Average high - 80 degrees Average low - 55 degrees

Regional Airport 229-225-4313 Thomas County Transit Service 229-226-6565

POST OFFICES www.usps.com – all locations U.S. Post Office 800-275-8777 Main - North Broad Street at Jefferson in Federal Building Flipper Branch - 15 Liberty Street off U.S. Highway 19

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THRIVING THROUGH THE CENTURIES

History of Thomas County ertile land, gentle rolling hills, abundant wildlife, pleasant climate…attributes enjoyed today, attracted settlers to this area in the 1820s.

As “fortunate drawers” in Georgia’s land lottery of 1820, they were awarded lands which had once been favorite hunting sites for Lower Creek and Apalachee Native Americans. The adventurous pioneers began a tradition of meeting common challenges with uncommon vision and determination.

They soon developed a thriving agricultural economy, based primarily on cotton. By 1825, Thomas County had been established and in 1831 the county seat of Thomasville was incorporated. Wealthy planters built fine homes on large plantations, which were worked by slaves, while many self-sufficient yeomen worked their own smaller farms.

Immigrants from other southern states, New England and Scotland came seeking new opportunities and helped create a flourishing community. In 1860 Thomasville boasted churches, schools, stores, hotels and the services of doctors, dentists and lawyers. A year later the citizens of Thomas County celebrated the long-sought arrival of the first train linking the area to the port of Savannah.

Growth and prosperity were interrupted, however, when Georgia joined other Southern states in seceding from the United States of America. Fifteen-hundred Thomas County soldiers fought in the ensuing war between the North and South, which continued for four long years.

Although Thomas County was spared the destruction inflicted on other parts of Georgia, 500 local soldiers died from battlefield wounds or illness.

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As returning veterans struggled to rebuild a devastated economy, community leaders insisted on the importance of railroad connections to the North and Midwest. The railroad line to Savannah, which had been sabotaged during the War, reopened in 1866. In 1869, completion of the railroad to Albany connected Thomasville to major population centers in the Midwest.

Wealthy Northerners and Midwesterners, enjoying the opportunities afforded by rail travel, began to seek winter retreats. Thomasville’s “dry and resinous atmosphere,” produced by its elevation and thousands of acres of surrounding pines, was promoted for its health benefits.

Recognizing the need for accommodations, which would attract affluent visitors, Thomas C. Mitchell, one of Thomasville’s wealthiest men, began construction in 1874 on a luxury hotel at the corner of Broad and Jackson Streets. Mitchell House was completed in 1875 at a cost exceeding $100,000—with a 10-year tax exemption.

Within 10 years, another major hotel, the Piney Woods, along with many smaller hotels and boarding houses, accommodated the winter visitors. Full- and part-time residents shared a love for the area’s natural beauty and outdoor sports. Winter residents came to appreciate southern hospitality and many in the local community enjoyed socializing with the urbane visitors. During the height of this Great Resort Era—the 1880s and 1890s— Thomasville hosted approximately 15,000 seasonal residents and tourists each year.

Visitors were lavishly entertained with fine dining, balls, carriage drives, golf, horseracing, the new sport of bicycling, and quail hunting. Many of those who returned every year built elaborate “winter cottages” in town or purchased working plantations and converted them into grand shooting plantations. Thomasville remained a premier resort until the early 1900s when new railroads and hotels lured many of the visitors to Florida. Though the golden era of tourism rapidly declined, approximately 70 plantations remained, providing jobs, conservation of thousands of acres and generous support for community improvements.

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Thomas County’s 20th-century leaders welcomed innovations like the automobile and successfully campaigned to bring the Dixie Highway through town.

Enterprising businessmen utilized the pine forests to make Thomas County a center for the turpentine and lumber REET DAWSON ST industries while others founded businesses, which BRO STREAD they nurtured into Fortune 500 ET companies. The indomitable spirit of the community prevailed through World War II as city and county officials persuaded the Army to build an air base and Finney General Hospital in Thomas County.

This progressive legacy continues to inspire the leaders of the 21st century. And the natural beauty and excellent wildlife habitat continue to attract renowned guests to private plantations and discriminating visitors to plantations open for tours or hunting.

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BUSINESSES MAKING HISTORY CALDWELL & LANGFORD AGENCY

The Caldwell & Langford Agency wrote its first insurance policy in May 1871. Initially known as Hansell & Hansell, the agency rose from the wreckage of the Civil War. Now, more than 140 years later, Caldwell & Langford is a powerhouse in Georgia’s insurance industry. Whether you need fire, casualty, marine, surety, accident, health or life insurance, the experienced agents of Caldwell & Langford are ready to tailor policies that will meet each stage of your life. The agency’s objective is to serve you. We do business 28

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as independent agents who directly represent approximately 30 companies and brokers with combined facilities on an indirect basis for more than 100 companies. This gives us flexibility to create affordable policies that will suit your circumstances. We’ve been operating continuously since 1871 and are ready to serve the people of Thomasville into the 21st Century and beyond!

CULPEPPER CONSTRUCTION COMPANY OF GEORGIA

Culpepper Construction Company of Georgia provides general contracting, construction management and design/build services for our clients. Throughout its 80-

year history, this award-winning company has earned a reputation for producing high-quality work that stands the test of time. We remain an industry leader for construction of healthcare and higher education facilities, public schools, and corporate, government, and multi-family projects.

Culpepper was originally established in 1932 in southeast Georgia. In the early years, Mr. Culpepper worked primarily in Georgia building K-12 schools, banks and public housing projects. He relocated the business to Tallahassee in 1935 and established relationships with

Florida State University, Florida A&M University and Tallahassee Community College. However, he always kept his Georgia connections. He continued building for Archbold Memorial Hospital and handled many other private and public projects. Today, the firm has two offices in Georgia. The Thomasville office serves South Georgia, and Carrollton office serves North Georgia.

The company employs 12 project managers, 19 superintendents, more than 100 field employees and additional administrative support. High quality

“Insuring Thomas County for Over 100 Years” 411 Smith Avenue • Post Office Box 2138 Thomasville, Georgia 31799-2138 HOME BUSINESS caldwellandlangford.com AUTO LIFE

229-226-4511

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performance by our staff is synonymous with the consistent level of integrity we have been able to provide with every job. The current management team has more than 30 years’ experience and our goal is to establish long lasting relationships with clients/owners who demand quality and cost effective constructions.

GEORGIA-FLORIDA BURGLAR ALARM COMPANY

Georgia-Florida Burglar Alarm Company was founded in 1953 by Thomas J. Mims in Thomasville. From its humble beginnings with he and his wife, Estelle, as the only employees, the company has grown to over fifty employees with offices in Thomasville and Tallahassee and a 24-hour Central Monitoring Station. In 60 years, the company now has over 6,000 accounts and services and maintains more

than 10,000, providing security, fire alarms and camera systems for residential, commercial, government and industrial buildings in the South Georgia and Northwest Florida areas.

“That is not a lot of accounts when compared to larger, national companies, but it is large enough to allow us to provide quality service and installations, while small enough to provide the personal service our customers have come to expect. It is vital that our customers feel they are receiving a personal level of attention and service,” says Mims.

The company remains a local, family-owned and operated business with all four of the Mims’ children holding important roles. David Mims (President) and Mike Mims (Vice-President) are in the Tallahassee office. Sandra Brookerd (Executive Vice-President) and Jeff Mims (VicePresident) manage the Thomasville office. Sandra’s husband, Reese, is also with the company. Mr. and Mrs. Mims retired in 2011 but remain involved.

HORNE CANDY AND PAPER COMPANY

Horne Candy and Paper Company was first established in 1948 on Wright Street by Bennett and Millie Horne. Mr. Horne had little more than a small truck for delivering candy, stationery and other items to mom-and-pop stores and other retailers in the Thomasville area. The small business grew and was able to move to a larger facility on Clay Street and then, in the early 1950s, settling at its current location on West Monroe Street. Sixty-five years after its founding, the business is still going strong!

For 50 years, the Hornes poured their lives into building the business. When Mr. Horne passed away, their daughter, Ellen, and her husband, Richard Hunsucker, then moved from Atlanta to continue the business. The Hunsuckers took the company into a new era, introducing sales to the general public. Though the Hunsuckers eventually sold the business to a non-family member, the Horne tradition continues. Candy of all kinds, including a line of the vintage confections, is just one reason that people from miles around visit the store, looking for favorites like Mary Janes, Squirrel Nut Zippers and Coconut Long Boys.

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If the candy is not in stock, they will even research to see if they can find it for you. The current owner has now increased the non-edible products to include restaurant supplies, concession items and party products. Paper, plastic and Bambu products are available in a wide range of colors.

For the Horne’s team, service is still one of the most important aspects of the business. They are conveniently located in Thomasville, provide service with a smile, and deliver to schools, businesses and churches in the surrounding communities.

SIMMONS, MILLS & SIMMONS P.C. Certified Public Accountants

Our firm was established over 60 years ago to provide quality tax, accounting, auditing and business consulting services and solutions to individuals and businesses in the Thomasville area. In 1948 the firm was formed by Charles R. Simmons, Jr. and Pete McCollum. Pete McCollum retired in 1977 and Edwin Simmons joined his father in continuing the firm’s growth. In 1986 Charles Simmons died and Darrell Mills became a partner. In 1995 Edwin’s son, Michael Simmons joined the firm as the third generation.

We pride ourselves in delivering affordable services in a timely manner while providing close personal attention to each client. That is why most of our new clients are referred by existing ones.

Today’s tax laws are so complicated that unless your financial affairs are extremely simple, chances are you will benefit from at least occasional help from a tax professional.

It is too easy to overlook deductions and credits to which you are entitled if you prepare only one return a year. Even the use of computer software is no substitute for the assistance of a seasoned tax preparer.

We monitor the changes in the tax law that could affect you and recommend tax saving strategies. We will prepare all your tax returns and serve as your advocate in all tax matters.

We prepare hundreds of tax returns every year. We know what to look for when your return is prepared. More importantly, you will have someone to answer your questions during the rest of the year.

If you are contacted by any government agency concerning your tax matters, your first call should be to us. We will take care of it so that you can get on with your business.

Simmons, Mills & Simmons P.C. Certified Public Accountants Best Kept Secret in Thomasville Specializing in vintage candies as well as many other candy selections, concession items, restaurant supplies, party and paper products of all kinds and price ranges!

Over 60 years of Service 1948 - Present

220 W. Monroe Street (229) 226-2931

220 East Jackson Street Thomasville, GA 31792 (229) 226-2515

Mon.-Fri. 8:30-5pm • Wed. 8:30-1pm candycountrystore.com

smscpa@simmonsmillsandsimmons.com www.simmonsmillsandsimmons.com

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Thomas County SCHOOLS ccredited with Quality by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the Thomas County Public School System offers a comprehensive educational program designed to meet the diverse needs of all students from age four through high school. Six schools, including two charter schools, serve over 5,300 students.

The district provides accelerated academic opportunities for academically talented and gifted students, the area’s most comprehensive career and vocational program, and a full continuum of support services for students with special needs. The school district has devoted itself to becoming South Georgia’s leader in the field of adaptive technology for students with special needs.

Dedicated to meeting the needs of the total student, the Thomas County School System offers an award-winning nutrition program, which provides all students a free breakfast meal each day and a nutritious lunch at a reasonable rate. A countywide transportation program is available to all Thomas County residents who attend any of the district’s schools or programs.

Every classroom in the district is equipped with state-ofthe-art instructional tools including projection systems, sound-field amplification systems and SmartBoard interactive devices. Each campus is equipped with schoolwide wireless access.

The Thomas County Elementary School Program offers a carefully articulated pre-K through sixth grade curriculum designed to provide students a seamless education as they progress through the district’s elementary schools. HandIn-Hand Primary School is a pre-K and kindergarten center that provides a safe, fun and supportive atmosphere for students as they begin their formal educational process in a

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Thomas County Schools Hand-In-Hand Primary School 4687 U.S. 84 ByPass Thomasville, GA 31792 225-3908 Garrison-Pilcher Elementary School 277 Hall Road Thomasville, GA 31757 225-4387

Thomas County Middle School 4681 Hwy 84 ByPass Thomasville, GA 31792 225-4394 Thomas County Central High School 4686 Hwy 84 ByPass Thomasville, GA 31792 225-5050

Cross Creek Elementary School 324 Clark Road Thomasville, GA 31757 225-3900

Bishop Hall Charter School 1819 East Clay Street Thomasville, GA 31792 227-1397

building designed from the ground up specifically for very young children. The campus, which was tailor-made for four and five-year-olds, provides a unique, age-appropriate learning environment that is filled with special activities designed for young children. A comprehensive phonics program provides the building blocks for early literacy skills that ensure students a strong academic foundation for future growth.

Garrison-Pilcher Elementary School and neighboring Cross Creek Elementary School provide students in grades one through four age-appropriate learning centers. Cross Creek Elementary School was recently designated a “Rewards School� by the state of Georgia for its exceptional academic achievement. In addition to a very strong academic program, students participate in art, music and physical education classes on a weekly basis. Cross Creek offers an outstanding choral program that performs throughout the community. Mathematically gifted fourth graders are given an opportunity to enroll in an accelerated math program.

Thomas County Upper Elementary (5-6) and Thomas County Middle School (7-8) share a campus that provides

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students access to a number of specially equipped laboratories for advanced study and career exploration.

Students have the opportunity to begin taking high school science classes. An agriculture lab, a mass media lab and several computer labs provide students opportunities for career exploration.

career classes, fine arts classes and rigorous college preparatory programs. TCCHS offers more than a dozen Advanced Placement classes and many more dual enrollment options through the student’s choice of Thomas University, Bainbridge College or Southwest Georgia Technical College.

Beginning in fifth grade, highly motivated and academically gifted students may apply for admission to the district’s MERIT program (Maximizing Education to Realize Intellectual Transformation). The MERIT program encourages students to participate in academic competitions at the regional and state levels.

The Yellow Jacket band, “The Best of the Nest,” is a point of pride for Thomas County Central High School.

TCCHS band students routinely capture the majority of the seats in the district honor band. The visual arts program

The school district’s foreign language program provides students opportunities to study Spanish, French and Latin.

Additional language programs are available to students through the Georgia Virtual School Program.

Thomas County Central High School provides a comprehensive high school program under one roof.

Whether a student wants to complete a rigorous college preparatory education that includes the opportunity to earn a full associate’s degree through a partnership with a college or university, or an industry certified career program in any number of vocational areas, they may seamlessly blend

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is also highly successful and provides students many opportunities to compete in regional and state competitions.

The Thomas County athletics program offers middle school, junior varsity and varsity teams in baseball, basketball, cheerleading, cross country, football, golf, gymnastics, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track and wrestling. TCCHS boasts five state championships in football and region titles in virtually every sport.

The PREP Academy is one of two charter programs that are part of the Thomas County School System. The PREP Academy offers courses in agriculture, business education, family and consumer science, mass media, automotive repair, welding and health occupations. The automotive repair, mass media and health occupations program hold

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industry certification. PREP Academy students have successfully competed in a number of state and national level competitions in their respective fields.

Bishop Hall Charter School is the area’s only nontraditional high school. First chartered in 1999, Bishop Hall offers an eclectic, performance-based program for students who wish to complete their high school program in a small setting that is enhanced with a variety of experiential field trips and a strong partnership with Southwest Georgia Technical College. Supported through generous donations from local foundations, Bishop Hall provides students who have fallen behind academically an opportunity to catch up and complete their high school requirements. Students who wish to graduate early are also able to take advantage of the flexible curriculum that is based on performance rather than traditional “seat-time” requirements.

For more information, please call us or visit our website at www.thomas.k12.ga.us.

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THOMASVILLE CITY SCHOOLS The Thomasville City School System provides innovative and strategically planned instruction to more than 3,000 students through six outstanding schools, including three elementary schools, one middle school and one high school.

The three elementary schools serve students in pre-K through fifth grade.

MacIntyre Park Middle School serves sixth through eighth grades and offers extracurricular programs - including Beta Club, a Science Academy, band, strings and chorus.

Thomasville High School’s comprehensive academic program provides vocational and college-preparatory instruction to students grades nine-12. Course offerings extend from college preparatory courses (such as advancedplacement English, biology, history and calculus) to vocational courses (such as welding, nursing, construction and technology). Post-secondary options are also available to eligible high school students.

The Thomasville Scholars Academy is a college preparatory program for grades six-12 offering students the opportunity to earn an associate’s degree from college by high school graduation. This partnership with Thomas University is for high achieving students with an interest in completing U.S. Central Command commander General Lloyd J. Austin III with his wife, Charlene. General Austin is a graduate of Thomasville High School and the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY.

Thomasville City Schools Harper Elementary School 110 Bartow Street Thomasville, GA 31792 229-225-2622

Thomasville High 315 S. Hansell Street Thomasville, GA 31792 229-225-2634

Jerger Elementary School 1006 S. Broad Street Thomasville, GA 31792 229- 225-2625

Scholars Academy 820 E. Washington Street Thomasville, GA 31792 229-228-2397

Scott Elementary School 100 N. Hansell Street Thomasville, GA 31792 229-225-2631

Thomasville Board of Education 915 E. Jackson Street Thomasville, GA 31792 229-225-2600

MacIntyre Park Middle 117 Glenwood Drive Thomasville, GA 31792 229-225-2628

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middle and high school in a collegiate environment. This has been recognized by the State Superintendent of Schools as a “Model Program.” Organized as a school within a school program, it is affiliated with MacIntyre Park Middle School and Thomasville High School.

The award-winning literary, music and athletic programs of Thomasville City Schools provide extracurricular activities to many students. Students may participate in award winning band programs from grades five-12. Small class sizes at every level provide greater opportunities for teachers to address individual student needs. Students with disabilities are actively involved in the regular education curriculum with support to ensure that they are receiving quality instruction. The student services department provides support to students and their families through individual casework, group work and external agency collaboration(s).

Building and nurturing a community of learners is accomplished through the recruitment and retention of outstanding educators. Education is central to providing teachers with the research-based skills that guarantee students the very best learning opportunities available anywhere.

CONTINUING A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE: SOUTHWEST GEORGIA TECHNICAL COLLEGE Southwest Georgia Technical College (SWGTC) is truly an asset to the communities of Thomas, Grady and Mitchell counties, and the reason is simple – SWGTC provides business and industry with highly skilled graduates who are exceptionally trained, technically skilled and ready to work on state-of-the-art equipment.

“At SWGTC we serve the community by providing the best in technical training and education to graduate highly skilled workers to fill positions with businesses and companies within our region,” Dr. Wentworth said. “The superior training we provide results in graduates who are qualified to work in a variety of fields, such as nursing, automotive technology, computer information systems and welding, just to name a few.”

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Technical College Facts SWGTC is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

SWGTC is a public two-year technical college and financial aid is offered.

SWGTC is located at 15689 U.S. Highway 19 North, Thomasville, GA 31792, 229-225-4096 For information on courses, visit www.southwestgatech.edu

SWGTC, a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, offers more than 80 diploma, certificate and degree programs in allied health, business and computer technology, technical and industrial education and professional services. SWGTC’s goal is to provide training for the most in-demand careers in the country, jobs that are projected to grow in both availability and in pay.

Students appreciate SWGTC’s smaller class sizes and the convenience of flexible hours and online courses. The Online Education program offers a solution for busy students balancing educational goals with work and personal commitments. They can log on at the time most convenient for them to complete course assignments, proving that an SWGTC education is both convenient and flexible.

Once students have graduated and secured employment with area businesses, the services from SWGTC do not end. The College is the continuing education provider of choice for our area and affords individuals and businesses the opportunity to obtain advanced training in a variety of areas. SWGTC also provides free testing for the Georgia Work Ready program, which seeks to assist job applicants in determining their strengths and weaknesses, which in turn helps them determine what jobs they are best suited to perform.

High school students can look to SWGTC for technical education through dual enrollment initiatives offered in each of the service area’s high schools. Dual enrollment students receive technical training while completing their high school education, making it possible to graduate with a technical certificate of credit and a high school diploma at the same time. Through this partnership, opportunities will be offered in both academic and career and technical studies. This educational combination is expected to increase academic achievement, promote post-secondary options and prepare high school students for workreadiness.

THOMAS UNIVERSITY Thomas University is a private nonprofit university located in Thomasville, Georgia. Established in 1950, TU offers an excellent education with small class sizes and individualized attention for students. With a faculty-tostudent ratio of 11:1, the learning process is highly interactive. TU faculty members are valued for their professional excellence and expertise both in teaching and in their disciplines.

TU offers two associate degree programs, 15 bachelor’s degree programs, six graduate degree programs, two postbaccalaureate certificate programs and two graduate certificate programs.

Thomas University has seen record enrollments for the past decade. In 2011 Thomas University established cooperative nursing programs to offer its bachelor’s degree in nursing at two universities in China. There are currently just six cooperative nursing programs through university in other countries with Central Government approval. Two of those six programs are the partnerships with Thomas University’s Division of Nursing.

Thomas University also operates satellite programs in nursing at hospitals in Tallahassee, Fla., and Moultrie, Ga., as well as a social work degree program at Tallahassee Community College and an education degree program at Bainbridge College. In addition, TU offers completely online degree programs.

Since 2009 Thomas University has been recognized by G.I. Jobs on its list of Military Friendly Schools, which includes the top 15 percent of schools in the nation that were found to deliver the best experience for military students.

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Thomas University recently opened its West Campus, which is located about one mile from the Main Campus on the former Magnolia School property. The West Campus includes a gymnasium and Student Life Center.

Development of the West Campus will continue with future plans including residence halls and athletic fields.

On the Main Campus, Smith-Bonvillian Hall, a 19,000square-foot academic building, will be completed in the summer of 2013. This will be the largest building on the Main Campus.

Thomas University is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and the Sun Conference. In 2011 and 2012, TU was recognized by the NAIA as a Five State Champions of Character Institution, a program that instills an understanding of character values in sports. TU’s sports include basketball, soccer, baseball, golf, swimming and softball.

Thomas University welcomes the public to many of its activities, including the monthly Science CafĂŠ where guests dine while discussing current topics with a scientist. Arts for the Community at Thomas University (ACTU) includes music and theatre performances on campus and at venues throughout the community.

University Facts Academic scholarships, athletic scholarships and financial aid are offered.

Thomas University is a 501(c)3 institution.

Contributions are tax-deductible.

Thomas University is located at 1501 Millpond Road, Thomasville, GA 31792. Phone numbers are (800) 538-9784 and (229) 226-1621.

For more information on degree programs, visit www.thomasu.edu.

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Children’s programs…TCPLS is a special place for children. During the school year, teachers bring classes daily to introduce youngsters to the scope and diversity of library information and to encourage them to become “readers for pleasure.” The library offers weekly story times for preschoolers and toddlers.

THOMAS COUNTY’S OUTSTANDING PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM Public libraries meet community needs. Thomas County has every reason to be proud of its public library system.

With a history that dates back to the Young Men’s Debating Club, the Thomas County Public Library System – TCPLS – has evolved into a focal point of education, entertainment and meeting place in each community it serves.

During the summer, the library leaps into action to keep young minds growing with a wide variety of special activities, including a featured Vacation Reading Program.

During the summer and throughout the year, the library introduces special storytellers, magicians, puppeteers and educational exhibitions. Summer programs are available for children, teens and adults.

For adults…New and old residents will find valuable information at the library—from voter registration and tax

TCPLS is a unique educational and social resource for Thomas County, serving all residents of all ages. It consists of the headquarters library in Thomasville and five neighborhood libraries, in Boston, Coolidge, Meigs, Ochlocknee and Pavo.

Resources…TCPLS maintains a collection of over 100,000 books, videos/DVDs, audio-books/CDs, e-books, downloadable books and reference titles for children and adults. Library users also have free access to more than 8.5 million items from 270 public libraries across Georgia through the PINES network.

Services…The library’s services are available to all community residents from pre-K through seniors. Visitors are also welcomed to use the facilities.

Computers and Internet…The main library and all branch locations have computers with Internet access for public use and offer free computer classes for seniors, adults and children. TCPLS computers can link anyone to GALILEO, Georgia’s “virtual library” offering access to databases such as Encyclopedia Britannica, Georgia Government Publications and the Digital Library of Georgia.

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forms to genealogical materials. Business professionals benefit from the library’s reference department, which can provide statistics and research services.

Meeting place…The Thomasville library’s Henry O. Flipper Room is a place for nonprofit meetings, conferences, author’s readings, special programs and displays that are open to the public, free of charge. The Flipper Room can accommodate up to 240 persons and can meet the specific requirements of the presenters and their audience. The Flipper Room was named for a Thomasville native who was the first black graduate of West Point.

The “people’s university”…Many residents call the Thomas County Public Library System the “people’s university” because of the wide and varied materials, information and services it offers—at no charge—to all those who live and work in Thomas County.

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THOMAS COUNTY homas County government provides over $26 million in vital public services each year to the residents and citizens of our community. The Thomas County Board of Commissioners is composed of eight members elected by district, serving staggered, four-year terms. The Board meets on the second Tuesday at 9 a.m. and the fourth Tuesday at 6 p.m. of each month. Thomas County government provides the following services to all citizens of the county: ambulance service, enhanced-911, public transit, library services, animal control, emergency management, solid waste collection, construction and maintenance of the county road system. Fire protection, planning, zoning and building inspections are provided to and funded by the unincorporated county.

The Board is also responsible for raising revenues and establishing budgets for several county offices established

by Georgia law that provide countywide services. The Sheriff ’s office provides law enforcement, public safety, corrections and court support services. The Clerk of Court, Superior Court, State Court, Probate Court, Magistrate Court, Juvenile Court and the District Attorney provide judicial services. The Board of Tax Assessors and the Tax Commissioner are responsible for the equitable determination of property values and collection of taxes, respectively.

The Thomas County Courthouse on North Broad Street has undergone a $7.8 million restoration in 2011-2013. The courthouse was built in 1858 in the neo-classical style. In 1888 the courthouse was dramatically altered to suit the tastes of the Victorian era. In 1935 the Annex was added and the interior of the main courthouse was redesigned.

The newly restored courthouse has offices for County Commissioners, Tax Commissioner and the Board of Tax Assessors.

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Restoration of 1858 Thomas County Courthouse completed in 2013.

Across the way on North Madison Street is a new 38,000square-foot building known as the Judicial Center. The new building has offices for Superior Court State Court, Probate Court, District Attorney, Solicitor, Clerk of Superior Court and the Board of Elections. The new building was constructed at a cost of $12 million and was opened in January 2011.

The Emergency Services Center at 1202 Remington Avenue is headquarters for Thomas County Emergency Medical Service, Emergency Management and County Fire and Rescue. This 20,000-square-foot building was completed and occupied in 2007. The Emergency Services Center also has a 4,000-square-foot training area that doubles as the county’s emergency operations center. The building was constructed largely with inmate labor at a cost of $1.2 million.

Thomas County has a rich history that spans three centuries, prospering under good, progressive local leadership. Located in southwest Georgia and bordering Florida, the county was formed in 1825 from parts of Irwin and Decatur counties. In 1826 Thomasville was established as the location for the new county seat.

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Thomasville quickly became the political, social, economic and religious center for the county. The 1880s ushered in the grand hotel era when Thomasville was one of the premier resort centers in the nation. During this era the small towns of Barwick, Boston, Coolidge, Meigs, Ochlocknee and Pavo were founded. Many visitors came to Thomas County at this time, bought property and built up the land for multiple uses. The same spirit that lured northern industrialists here in the 1880s is evident today as the people of Thomas County promote economic growth and continue to preserve their rich heritage.

CITY OF THOMASVILLE The city of Thomasville was first incorporated under a charter issued by the General Assembly of the state of Georgia on October 3, 1889. Under the terms of the City Charter, the legislative authority of the government of the city of Thomasville is vested in a Council composed of five Council members – two from each of the city’s two districts and one at large – all of which serve four-year terms.

Come Grow With Us!

THOMASVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT The Thomasville Police Department is Nationally Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies Inc. (CALEA). This voluntary accreditation program for law enforcement agencies is a joint effort between CALEA and four major law enforcement executive membership associations including the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, the National Sheriff ’s Association and the Executive Research Forum.

In 2011, TPD was granted Recertification by the State of Georgia, establishing TPD as one of the premier law enforcement agencies within Georgia. According to a letter from the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, “less than 15 percent of agencies who are eligible to achieve State Certification have accomplished this objective.”

THOMASVILLE FIRE RESCUE

The Mayor presides at all meetings of the City Council and is considered the head of the city for ceremonial purposes.

Day-to-day administration of city government is taken care of by a city manager, who is appointed by Council.

The City Council meets in formal council meetings on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 7 p.m., in Council Chambers at City Hall. The Council also meets in informal workshops. All workshops and meetings are open to the general public in accordance with the Georgia Open Meetings act.

The city of Thomasville does not levy any ad valorem taxes.

In addition, the city fire tax was eliminated in 2012. The revenues generated from city-owned utilities – electric, water, wastewater, natural gas, solid waste and CNS services – are transferred into the General Fund in order to provide funding for police and fire protection, street maintenance and other essential governmental services.

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Thomasville Fire Rescue has an ISO classification rating of two and employs more than 40 full-time personnel.

Hazardous Materials Technician certification is an employment requirement, and many personnel have also achieved national certification as Emergency Medical Technicians or Paramedics. TFR operates from three fire stations located within the city of Thomasville and covers a primary response zone of approximately 18 square miles, or the incorporated city limits of Thomasville. The department operates three Engine companies, one Ladder Company and a Command Unit on a 24-hour basis, with a rescue vehicle and engine company in reserve. All suppression units are equipped with basic life support medical supplies and respond to medical emergencies anywhere within the Thomasville city limits.

UTILITIES In addition to public services, the city of Thomasville offers utilities services to its citizens. Serving both residential and commercial customers, City of Thomasville Utilities provides electric, natural gas, water, wastewater and solid waste services at extremely competitive rates. The city’s most recent utilities venture, compressed natural gas, powers many of the city’s vehicle fleet, saving thousands of barrels of oil each year.

CNS: HIGH-SPEED FOR THE DEEP SOUTH In 1995, the city of Thomasville began building a fiber optic network to serve local schools, libraries, businesses and hospitals with telecommunications and Internet services.

After seeing success in this limited offering, it was identified that the community at large would be able to benefit from access to high-speed Internet. So, in 1998, in order to better serve the community, the city of Thomasville began construction of a new high-speed, fiberoptic network and in 1999, CNS, or Community Network Services, was created.

CNS now offers telecommunication services to both commercial and residential customers. Services offered include cable television, high-speed Internet and telephone,

all of which are funded locally; meaning citizens who choose to be CNS customers are investing in their own communities, not a corporation headquartered across the country.

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Thomas County services, visit the Chamber’s website, www.thomasvillechamber.com.

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hether you’re interested in a spacious family home, an estate ideal for entertaining, a smaller bungalow for two, or something in between, the Thomas County area has it all.

Through careful planning, there is an impressive blend of housing from basic, modest neighborhoods to sophisticated, upscale subdivisions.

Are you looking for a vibrant, close-knit community with a safe environment and outstanding business and educational resources? Do you want to live in an area that maintains the ambiance of a small town while offering big-city amenities?

Welcome to Thomasville and Thomas County!

Retirees and professionals often gravitate toward the condominiums and planned communities, offering a low maintenance and carefree lifestyle. For those wanting space, plantations or large tracts for farming and country living, you will find yourself drawn to these rich red hills.

Thomasville embraces its Victorian heritage in historic neighborhoods with tree-lined streets. In harmony with the area’s natural beauty, you can find turn-of-the-century homes, which epitomize the space and charm of southern living and invite you to step back in time. Continuous restoration projects show the commitment of the community to preserve the past for future generations to enjoy.

Thomasville and Thomas County has experienced an active real estate market for the past decade with a healthy appreciation in residential markets. The commercial market also continues to lure new businesses and industries that usually follow rooftops.

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Through careful planning, Thomasville and Thomas County’s growth continues in harmony with efforts to preserve the area’s beauty and natural resources. From every direction, Thomasville remains worth the trip for a day or for a lifetime.

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226.7788 100 BERRYHILL LN. THOMASVILLE, GA fax: 226.0713 EMERGENCY: 226.7229

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This Is Quality. This Is Sears.

Carry All Top 10 Brands Price Match Lowest Guarantee Expert Service By Our 10,000 Repair Specialists 15082 US Hwy. 19 South • Thomasville, GA 229-227-5842 www.searshometownstores.com email: ds3986@searshc.com

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A Name You Know & Trust for Over 100 Years!

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“Thomas County makes up 29 percent of the population in a five county area. However, Thomas County accounts for over 50 percent of the retail sales.

As a result, businesses look at Thomasville as a regional destination. Several major corridors are exploding with new growth – including hotels, retail establishments and restaurants.”

Don Sims, Economic Developer Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce

Landscape Division • Design • Installation • Renovation • Lighting • Patios • Pavers

174 Big Star • Thomasville GA 31757 (229) 228-4617 Fax (229) 227-9036 Maintenance Division • Clean Up • Yard Service • Trimming & Pruning • Debris Removal • Tree Removal • Custom Maintenance Programs

Irrigation Division • New Irrigation Systems • Irrigation Repairs • Valve Locating • Troubleshooting Ornamental & Turf Division • Chemical Applications • Fungicide Application • Fertilizing • Weed & Feed • Aerating

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ARCHBOLD HOSPITAL n 1925, Standard Oil heir and Chinquapin Plantation owner John F. “Jack” Archbold gave more than $1 million to build and equip a state-of-the-art hospital as a tribute to his late father and as a gift to his adopted community. When John D. Archbold Memorial Hospital opened its doors over eight decades ago, it was touted as the most modern and best-equipped hospital in the world.

The 100-bed regional hospital that became the 540-bed Archbold Medical Center of today was a marvel of its time.

Today, Archbold Memorial Hospital anchors a regional not-for-profit healthcare delivery system that includes four hospitals, three nursing homes, two home health agencies, a behavioral and substance abuse care facility and a network of primary and specialty care clinics that provide highquality healthcare readily available across the region. Key service lines include a comprehensive, regional cancer program; advanced heart and vascular services; and a broad range of surgical specialties, including orthopedics, neurosurgery, general surgery, bariatric surgery and many others.

Archbold is well-known for early adoption of technology, such as the Leskell Gamma Knife at the Lewis Hall Singletary Oncology Center. This incredible procedure allows a neurosurgeon to perform non-invasive surgery on brain tumors, lesions and vascular malformations of the brain without a scalpel and without the usual risks of traditional brain surgery. Archbold’s Gamma Knife was the 68th in the country—only the third in Georgia—and remains the only one of its kind south of Atlanta and Augusta and in Florida’s Big Bend region. The Singletary Oncology Center is also home to Trilogy, Archbold’s newest linear accelerator that treats tumors of the body with similar precision to that of Gamma Knife.

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Archbold offers the latest advances in diagnostics including PET scanning and advanced CT and MRI scanning. Fully accredited by the Joint Commission, Archbold also serves as the state’s designated trauma center for the entire South Georgia region.

The hospital has received many notable accolades. Georgia Trend recently ranked Archbold as a Top Georgia Hospital for gastrointestinal medical treatment and coronary intervention, a life-saving procedure performed in one of the hospital’s cardiac catheterization labs to abort an acute heart attack. In 2011, Archbold physicians were recognized as the first in the state and second worldwide to revolutionize surgical treatment for lung cancer using mesh brachytherapy and the daVinci Robot.

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Dr. Earl E. Folsom, Jr, PT, DPT, CHT Renee O. Reeves, PTA Brittany Moore, PTA Dana York, PTA

Dr. Chris A. Jarrett, PT, DPT Keith Raffield, PTA Daniel Gay, PTA

1203 E. Jackson Street • Thomasville, GA 31792 • (229) 228-4155 CAIRO PHYSICAL THERAPY Tyler P. Lee, PT Cheryl Hopkins, PTA

Holly Waldrep, PT

GRADY GENERAL HOSPITAL INPATIENT/OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION PHYSICAL THERAPY AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY Michael Hanna, PT Holly Waldrep, PT

Robert Snipes, PTA Michaela Mullen, PTA Hope Almon, PTA

Debbie Smith, OT Melissa Dawson, OT Judy Cox, OTA

COLQUITT PHYSICAL THERAPY & BLAKELY PHYSICAL THERAPY 210 W. Main St., Suite 1 Colquitt, GA 39837 229-758-5214

61 Perry Ave. Blakely, GA 39823 229-723-9269

Dr. Hope McColm, PT, DPT Tyler P. Lee, PT April Lee, PT Deon Foster, PTA

Tyler P. Lee, PT April Lee, PT Deon Foster, PTA Walter Daniels, PTA

Archbold erected a new North Tower in 2012, adding more than 247,000 square feet of patient care space at its main campus in Thomasville. The Tower serves as a modern replacement for key patient services and includes a newly constructed emergency department, surgery department, critical care areas and 114 private patient rooms.

Thomas County boasts more than 200 physicians in nearly 40 separate medical specialties, assuring its citizens experience care in close proximity. Healthcare is a major economic engine in virtually any community, but Thomas County’s healthcare delivery system packs a major financial punch. Not only does the Archbold system provide 2,500 jobs in the area, but also recent studies indicate a regional economic impact of more than $646 million is generated by the healthcare system annually.

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Areas of Medical Specialty Allergy and Immunology

Internal Medicine

Otolaryngology

Anesthesiology

Interventional Cardiology

Pathology

Audiology

Interventional Radiology

Pediatrics

Cardiology

Nephrology

Physiatry

Dermatology

Neurology

Plastic Surgery

Emergency Medicine

Neurosurgery

Podiatry

Family Medicine

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Psychiatry

Gastroenterology

Occupational Medicine

Pulmonology

General, Bariatric, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery

Medical and Radiation Oncology

Radiology

Ophthalmology

Rheumatology

Hematology

Oral Surgery

Urology

Integrative Medicine

Orthopedics

McIntosh Clinic, P.C. OFFERING THE FOLLOWING HEALTHCARE SERVICES Dermatology • Internal Medicine • Pathology Pulmonolgy • Neurology • Neuropsychology • Rheumatology

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS 119 West Hill Street • (229) 225-1900 www.mcintoshclinic.com

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TD C Thomasville Dental Center

General Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry Dental Implants IV Conscious Sedation Accepting New Patients

Alan G. Sanders, DMD

Hours: Monday - Thursday 8-5 Friday 8-12

396 Liberty Street 229-227-9070 www.thomasvilledentalcenter.com

S OUTH G EORGIA

Spine & Joint Center INTERVENTIONAL PAIN MANAGEMENT, CHIROPRACTIC, PHYSICAL THERAPY, MASSAGE THERAPY, AND NON-SURGICAL SPINAL DECOMPRESSION

TONY L. ROWE, M.D. Interventional Pain Management

South Georgia Spine & Joint Center is a comprehensive spine, sports and rehabilitation center with two locations across South Georgia. Each clinic offers interventional pain management, physical therapy, chiropractic care, massage therapy and non-surgical spinal decompression therapy. We are proud to provide our community with specialized non-surgical rehabilitation with great service and convenience.

DR. MIKE R. WALDROP Chiropractor

TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU Thomasville: 202 South Madison • 229-226-1035 Cairo: 26 Third Avenue, NW • 229-377-1392 Bainbridge: Coming in 2013!!

We also provide on-site licensed physical therapy at each location.

Licensed and board certified physical therapists provide much needed rehabilitation for most aches and pains under the direct supervision of Dr. Rowe. Our team approach provides a higher quality of care, more convenience and great results.

DR. HEATHER H. WALDROP Chiropractor

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hat is your plan for your second life? When you daydream about that next phase, are you thinking about a change? Whether you are north or south, a change in latitude is the plan of action and Thomasville may be the perfect destination for you. You can be as involved as you choose here under the spreading live oaks where we occasionally turn the thermostat to “cool” on Christmas Day, and sometimes the only sounds in quiet neighborhoods of historic homes are the footfalls of joggers and the sounds of baby strollers wheeling along.

COME FOR A VISIT Thomas County is home to one of “America’s Castles,” Pebble Hill Plantation, one of over 70 plantations in the area, and The Big Oak, a massive and majestic oak. Known as the City of Roses, Thomasville has many festivals, parades and celebrations throughout the year such as Rose Festival and Victorian Christmas and the Thomasville FlyIn at our airport. However, other communities in Thomas County are welcoming with their own events such as Mule Day, Peacock Festival and the Boston (GA) MiniMarathon.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION Best of both worlds and the roads to get there is a good description of Thomas County’s location. Thomasville’s close proximity to Florida’s Gulf Coast will please fisherman and beach goers alike, especially with a dogfriendly beach on St. George Island. NCAA college sporting events such as football and baseball are also available in Tallahassee, with Florida State University only 35 miles down the road. Mountain enthusiasts do not despair, with our great highways, it is an easy half-day jaunt up to the Blue Ridge foothills.

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Entrepreneurial community Entrepreneurs are welcome and encouraged by the Chamber of Commerce which offers small business mentoring. Opportunities abound in our small, but progressive town, and fiber optic cable for Internet access gives Thomasville entry to the dotcom world. Fortune 500 Company, Flowers Foods, started in 1919 as a family business and still has its headquarters located here. Your new business idea may catch fire too. With over 700 Chamber members, a wide range of business acumen provides networking and camaraderie for a new local business owner.

CULTURE CLIMATE Or, are you a frustrated actor who has always yearned to try your hand at the lead role in The Fantasticks? Thomasville On Stage and Company (TOSAC), open to members of the community, strives to keep the tradition of live theater viable in its Storefront Theater, located in the heart of Downtown Thomasville.

The Thomasville Entertainment Foundation (TEF), founded in 1937, presents a classical and a pop series each season. Many world-famous artists and renowned entertainers have been featured – including Fredericka von Staade, Yo-Yo Ma, Branford Marsalis and The Stepcrew. TEF, a completely volunteer organization with a stellar

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record of cultural events, can always use a hand.

Outstanding art may be found in the Thomasville Center for the Arts which displays works of outstanding artists in the gallery, accompanied by gala openings. Art classes, painting to pottery, are available for adults and children or even grandchildren. The Plantation Wildlife Arts Festival held at the Center is a nationally renowned event in November for anyone who loves art and wildlife with a variety of arts, crafts, jewelry, wildlife presentations and wonderful entertainment.

Expand your horizons at the Thomas County Public Library, recently enlarged and located in the center of town.

Groups like We’re Booking It, a local book club, and the Wiregrass Rug Hookers meet at the library regularly and are open to the public. The library offers a series of computer

workshops and hosts special events to which the community is invited. Should you want to trace your own family “roots,” in addition to the Genealogy Room at the Public Library, there is a very complete Thomasville Genealogical, History and Fine Arts Library located in the heart of downtown across from the courthouse.

Our local bookstore, which offers cupcake treats, welcomes lookers and shares space with an art gallery. We have shops that offer art from local artists, antiques and even a fair trade shop with eco-friendly items.

fit for life Archbold Medical Center is a four-hospital, three nursinghome system with 540 beds. It employs more than 2,500 people and boasts an outstanding medical staff of more than 160 qualified specialists. The John D. Archbold Memorial Hospital in Thomasville, Georgia is the flagship hospital with 264 beds. The recent expansion of the eight-story

inside out The YMCA offers multiple locations and an extensive program designed for all age levels. Its facilities (complete with outdoor and indoor heated pools) are favorites for retirees who enjoy participating in water aerobics, floor aerobics and fitness training on a variety of machines designed for such programs. Classes are scheduled for convenience of those attending, and personal trainers are available. In addition to fitness, they sponsor walks, health education, dance classes and other community activities.

Historic Glen Arven Country Club offers a beautiful 18hole golf course, and has hosted numerous visiting celebrities. Country Oaks, a public course owned by the city, provides an additional challenge. Several tennis courts on school campuses are available for public use. Butterfly and bird watching events at Birdsong Nature Center and Pinewoods Bird Festival, quail hunting and dog trails at local plantations and outdoor concerts are just few of our year-round activities in Southwest Georgia.

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North Tower and a new oncology center has added new medical facilities, specialists and treatments. Archbold provides high quality, compassionate medical care using cutting-edge technology. It sponsors free periodic lectures by staff members and partners with the YMCA and other groups for public health related events.

Archbold Integrative Medicine offers alternative medicine therapies such as diet counseling, massage and physical therapy, yoga and Tai Chi. A healthy benefit for the area is that Thomasville has the second largest farmer’s market in the state. Farmers offer fresh fruits and vegetables along with local products. Other selections are available at the Green Market and the Organic Market. Pick up locally made cheese and some organically grown tomatoes to keep in tiptop shape.

Recently expanding its local campus and adding to the world wide campus with more classes in China, Thomas University (an accredited liberal arts university that offers undergraduate and graduate degrees) is a growing institution with a broad-spectrum curriculum. Retirees may audit courses of their choosing at TU based on availability for a nominal fee and those over age 70 are free. The university sponsors various community events and cultural opportunities available to the public. Georgia allows residents age 62 and over to audit classes on a space available basis in any state institution, which would also include Valdosta State University.

Southwest Georgia Technical College offers a variety of courses and a 99 percent placement rate for local college students, but their adult education courses provide for lifelong learning.

a place apart We enjoy a heritage that is unusual, and it has continued to influence the area into modern times. If you are a history buff, this is an exciting place for you. The Thomas County Historical Society maintains an interesting museum in the heart of one of the oldest neighborhoods in town, and presents lectures featuring outstanding historians and

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speakers. Historic homes are venerated with our historic districts and you can even visit a National Historic Landmark, Victorian Era Lapham-Patterson House. Pebble Hill Plantation also offers tours. Be sure to stop by the Thomas County Courthouse, built in 1858, remodeled in 1889 and recently renovated. It is one of the oldest courthouses in Georgia continuously used for county government activities.

get involved Volunteers are appreciated, and will find a wide variety of opportunities. You can be involved in our Thomas County Medbank, dedicated to those in need. The Thomas County Humane Society and Miss Kitty Feline Sanctuary, a no kill cat sanctuary, both use volunteers to assist animals. Local docents at the Thomas County History Museum and Lapham-Patterson House and Pebble Hill Plantation (open to the public for tours) meet world travelers. They share anecdotes about fabled plantation experiences and the opulent lifestyles of wealthy northern industrialists who found this area so attractive as well as the regular local folk, both of whom have generations of descendants who still love this area.

The many churches of the area sponsor interesting activities for all age ranges, and offer unlimited opportunities to reach out to the community – including the food bank and being involved in local schools. Mentors are encouraged for school children in reading and tutoring programs. The kids love it, and one of them, upon spotting her tutor arriving, shouted to others present, “She’s mine!”

If you like to swing a hammer or are into painting, Thomasville Landmarks (an organization dedicated to preserving historic buildings, some of which are listed on the National Register) welcomes participation by volunteers. You can also volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, where a cross-section of citizens pitch in to make renovation a dream come true for some of our deserving citizens.

If you want to volunteer, but just are not sure where, we have the answer. Hands On Thomas County is a volunteer clearinghouse that pairs the skills and time of volunteers with our many nonprofit organizations that need assistance, making for a very successful and rewarding community partnership.

come to stay Sights, smells and sounds of Thomasville are some of the best reasons to consider changing your latitude and jumpstarting that new life here. The sights include our Thomasville Rose Garden, historic districts in our Great American Main Street City (1998) and our annual Victorian Christmas celebration. Smells include the Flowers Bakery that oozes with the aroma of baking bread or the pine-

scented air touted as far back as the 1880s. Then there are the “southern sounds” such as hellos from new friends you meet on the street, bands playing in the Rose Parade or the distant train whistle as you drop off to sleep at night.

Don’t take our word for it; consider that Thomasville has been featured on a CBS News report where Consumer Reports identified Thomasville as one of the “Perfect Places to Retire.” Both USA Today and NBC’s Nightly News with Brian Williams identified Thomasville as a retirement location for Boomers. More recently Thomasville was named as a “Top Ten Best Places to Retire” in Georgia by Retire in Georgia Magazine and on RetireSouth.com. When you are considering your ideal retirement, check out Retirement Lifestyles Magazine (August/September 2007) article describing Thomasville called “ACT II: Rediscovering Yourself in Retirement” and picture yourself here.

Inviting shops abound, and our downtown is one of treelined streets, vintage buildings beautifully restored and quaint restaurants with umbrella-shaded tables. We’ve saved a place for you. Come have a seat, drink a glass of tea and enjoy Thomasville with us.

Be a role model.

Improve your community.

Help someone.

Share your knowledge.

Volunteer…

Make a difference.

One hour. One day. One month. It doesn’t take long to make a lasting impact.

To be connected to opportunities in our community, call 226-5200 or visit HandsOnThomasCounty.org

The Salvation Army Family Store 514 N. Madison Street Thomasville, GA 229-228-0504 M-F 9:00 - 4:30 • SAT 9:30 - 4:00 RETIREMENT d

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an evening of music & dance or more than 40 years, young people in the area have had access to the highest level of performing arts training through the Thomasville Music & Drama Troupe, which was founded in 1972 by Fred and Winnie Allen. Middle and high school students receive training in singing, music, dance and stage performance from artist/teachers with experience on the professional stage, including Thomasville native Raymond Hughes, longtime chorus master for New York’s renowned Metropolitan Opera, who now serves as Troupe’s artistic director. Serving more than 100 teenaged entertainers from all area schools, the Troupe has performed for audiences from 50 to 50,000, including two performances at the White House, the most recent in 2012.

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The South Georgia Ballet Conservatory performs ballets and musicals and Arts for the Community at Thomas University features local and regional artists in a variety of music genres.

The Thomasville Music Academy is dedicated to promoting a passion for music for students of all levels. To promote arts in the community, ArtReach provides live theater productions for K-12. The Student Gallery exhibits the art of the best young talent.

Today, the Center continues its original mission to enrich the quality of life for people of all ages in South Georgia and North Florida through cultural and educational experiences in the arts and humanities. For information visit the website at www.thomasvillearts.org.

THOMASVILLE ENTERTAINMENT FOUNDATION

THOMASVILLE CENTER FOR THE ARTS An exciting arts experience awaits you at the Thomasville Center for the Arts, which has served as a community arts center since the 1980s. Housed in the former East Side School that was constructed in 1915, the Center is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. TCS’s renaissance revival architectural style offers a unique venue for concerts, exhibitions, and elegant events and soirees.

Diverse exhibitions include masterworks from an extensive permanent collection, nationally toured shows and the work of talented regional artists.

The annual Plantation Wildlife Arts Festival showcases the finest in paintings, sculpture, carvings and photography by noted wildlife artists. In collaboration with the Thomasville Entertainment Foundation, a concert series includes internationally known artists and symphony orchestras.

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The Thomasville Entertainment Foundation (TEF) presents an annual concert series featuring internationally renowned artists and ensembles in performances of opera, classical music, jazz, theater, dance and other forms of entertainment. This outstanding series is presented in the intimate, acoustically excellent Thomasville Center for the Arts auditorium and attracts audiences from throughout Georgia and Florida.

Celebrating over 75 years, TEF is one of the nation’s oldest and most respected nonprofit concert-presenter organizations. During TEF’s first half-century, the series featured such luminaries as pianists Artur Rubinstein and Van Cliburn; cellist Yo-Yo Ma; violinist Itzhak Perlman; The Boston Pops; Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo; Beaux Arts Trio and Canadian Brass.

More recent seasons include performances by popular entertainers Audra McDonald, Marvin Hamlisch, the Los Angeles

Guitar Quartet, Wynton Marsalis, violinist Hilary Hahn and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra. Other guest artists include Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, a contemporary combination of jazz, Dixieland and big band, and pianist Olga Kern.

TEF is an all volunteer organization that sponsors concerts, classes and workshops for area youth. Its scholarship program has assisted some of the region’s most promising young musicians.

For concert schedule and information, visit www.TEFconcerts.com.

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ARCHITECTURE RESPECTED he City of Thomasville’s Main Street is truly worth the trip.

You can live history as you stroll back in time on brick-paved streets while viewing beautifully preserved architecture embellishing downtown storefronts. Walk to over 70 unique retail shops and eat at any of Thomasville’s fine or casual dining restaurants where many ingredients are farm fresh.

Make plans to attend Main Street’s Victorian Christmas which is a “Top Twenty Event in the Southeastern United States” and the Rose Show and Festival which is held on the fourth weekend in April.

Downtown Thomasville is progressive with Wi-Fi accessible cafes and eclectic with numerous antique and unique shops. You can visit art galleries, theatre and locally owned book stores. In downtown Thomasville, you can dine on international cuisine and attend performances by acclaimed artists and performers from around the world!

Come experience all of this and more within Downtown Thomasville’s 21 blocks where parking is always free and providing good ole’ southern hospitality is our pleasure.

The commitment and support of Thomasville’s residents, business owners and other public/private partnerships continue to position Downtown Thomasville for future growth development. Downtown Thomasville is “Open for Business” being the perfect location for business startups, expansions and corporate relocations. Having a sound infrastructure is vital to economic growth and in 2012, the City of Thomasville in partnership with the Department of Transportation engaged a major Transportation Enhancement Project in downtown. Overhead utilities were placed underground, historic lighting, trees, garbage receptacles and benches were installed. The sidewalk was expanded with brick enhancements, irrigation and electrical outlets in tree wells. Buildings that have been vacant for

Many historic downtown buildings have been renovated and have taken on new life. A Madison Street warehouse has become a mixed-use facility, housing a financial management company on the lower floors and a condominium on the upper level.

Across the street, the Thomasville Steam Laundry boasted in the early 1900s that they offered their customers the most modern dry cleaning science.

Today, patrons can enjoy lunch and dinner at FishBonz Restaurant & Courtyard Café or shop for antiques.

Another local landmark completed in 1914 was a modern railroad station with amenities that included a lunchroom. Passenger rail is part of a bygone era, but the attractive train depot with its own ambiance is now home to businesses and Café Marebella Ristorante.

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years are being sold, downtown businesses are expanding and other properties are on the market some of which can be live/work properties or business/rental units.

Main Street’s Downtown Development Authority in partnership with the Department of Community Affairs aggressively seeks properties to redevelop, resulting in structurally significant rehabilitations, historical preservation, job retention and job creation.

The Main Street Program also administers a Façade Grant Program to assist property and business owners with façade restoration.

Downtown Thomasville is the perfect place for you to live, work and play! As our guest, we’re here to serve you. For more information, please visit our Office of Main Street and Tourism located at 144 East Jackson Street, visit our website at www.thomasvillega.com, call 229.228.7977, or call toll free 866.577.3600. Or, visit our Main Street website at www.downtownthomasville.com or call 229.227.7020.

southern land Pebble Hill Plantation has been called a Georgia Belle. This stately architectural beauty stands proudly amid the magnolias and long leaf pines of southwest Georgia. A visit is sure to result in a memorable experience for all who enter the Plantation’s gates.

Thomas Jefferson Johnson, who authored the bill to create Thomas County, established the property as a cotton plantation in 1825. A prosperous agricultural site throughout the antebellum period, it survived the difficult years of the Civil War and Reconstruction.

At JMarie Day Spa, we promise the utmost quality and

care to our clients by taking as many advance training and technique classes as possible.

We strive to make sure your experience at JMarie Day Spa is enjoyable, unique, and memorable.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

112 Madison Grove Blvd. • Thomasville, GA 31757 229.225.1466

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For Your leisure needs...

• Rain Showers • Free High-Speed Internet • Indoor Heated Pool & Sauna • Fitness Center

• Sweet Shop & Gift Store • Free Deluxe Hot Breakfast Bar • LCD Flat Screen TV/Cable/HBO

For Your business Needs...

• Grand Ball Room • Meeting Space

• Full Catering Kitchen • Free 24-Hour Business Center

www.bestwestern.com/rosecityconferencecenterinn 133 Liberty Street • Thomasville, GA 31757 229-226-9998

FUN FACTS ABOUT THOMASVILLE, GEORGIA e Joanne Woodward, Oscar-winning actress and wife of actor Paul Newman, made her acting debut on the old East Side School (now the Thomasville Cultural Center). e Thomasville native Lt. Henry O. Flipper was the first black graduate of West Point in 1877. He is buried in Thomasville in The Old Cemetery next to his mother and father. e The oldest perimeter road in the United States is Pinetree Boulevard. It was established as a “country drive” for visiting Northerners who wintered in Thomasville. It is situated 2.5 miles from the center of town. e Famous and wealthy people are connected to Thomasville – including the Vanderbilts, the Goodyears, the Rockefellers, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.

Pebble Hill’s modern history began in the late 1800s when Thomasville was enjoying popularity as a winter resort community. Wealthy northerners were drawn to this area.

The Hannas of Cleveland, Ohio were among those who discovered the merits of this “Yankee paradise.”

Industrialist Howard Melville Hanna purchased Pebble Hill in 1896, and soon gave the property to his daughter, Kate Hanna Ireland (later Harvey). When the Main House burned in 1934, she directed construction of the present House in 1936.

That same year, her daughter, Elisabeth Ireland (later Poe), inherited the plantation. After her death, Pebble Hill opened as a museum in 1983. Today, it is owned and operated by the Pebble Hill Foundation that she established and endowed. The property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been featured on “America’s Castles” on the Arts and Entertainment television channel. Pebble Hill welcomes some 25,000 visitors a year.

Pebble Hill Plantation covers 3,000 acres, and the rooms of the Main House include sporting art, Audubon prints and handsome antiques. The site has welcomed notable guests including United States presidents and British royalty.

Pebble Hill is a Georgia belle, and a premiere attraction in southwest Georgia.

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PARADISE PARK A contract signed in January 1887 acknowledged that S. Alex Smith leased with option to buy 24 and 41/100s acres (across from the famous Piney Woods Hotel) to the City Council of Thomasville.

This prime piece of real estate on the corner of Broad and Hansell Streets became known as Paradise Park.

Although Mr. Smith expired before the lease did (in 1890), the deed to the park swung into the hands of the city, which exercised the option to buy. The bank accounts of the heirs bloomed to the tune of $500 an acre, much more than the average selling price of a few dollars per acre of farmland.

Today, the park includes playground equipment, a large gazebo, grills, shelters and picnic tables. Throughout the year, the busy park is host to concerts, arts and craft shows, and an occasional wedding under the majestic Oaks.

The park remains a favorite spot for residents and visitors.

Granddaddy’s Barbeque Howard Broadway 221-1200

Mike Corbitt 224-9276

Marcia Love 221-6525

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Gerald Broadway 224-6571

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www.granddaddysbarbeque.com

Homecoming Restaurant Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner Catfish • Fried Quail Steaks • Seafood • Chicken

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e Jacqueline Kennedy chose to stay on a Thomasville plantation following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in November of 1963.

Arriving in February 1964, she was the guest of Mrs. John Hay Whitney of Greenwood Plantation. e There are 71 plantations in and around Thomas County. It is the largest concentration of its kind in the United States. The plantations cover some 300,000 acres, and are mostly owned by family descendants. e Several presidents visited Thomasville. William McKinley was introduced to southern Republican leaders in the Hanna-McKinley House (c.1883) during his 1895 bid for the presidency. He returned as president in 1899. Dwight Eisenhower teed up numerous times at the Glen Arven Country Club.

Several presidents and vice-presidents have enjoyed hunting on local plantations. e Thomasville is home to the Big Oak (c.1680), a massive and majestic tree with a limb span of 162 feet. Its age and beauty make it a living treasure of our city’s heritage.

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MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME If you are visiting our community, whether for business or pleasure, let our comfortable accommodations welcome you to the area and cater to your every need. You are certain to feel welcome in any one of our hotels or bed and breakfasts.

Here you can find a room that will take you back in time to the Victorian Era or a modern hotel with amenities to suit your needs. Whether you are here for the night or for an extended stay, you will want to return again and again.

HOTELS Baymont Inn (229) 227-9500 Best Western Rose City Conference Center Inn (229) 226-9998 Comfort Inn (229) 228-5555 Days Inn (229) 226-6025 EconoLodge (229) 584-0909 Hampton Inn (229) 227-0040 Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites (229) 226-4666

Quality Inn & Suites (229) 225-2134 Thomasville Inn (229) 227-1111 Western Motel (229) 228-0800 HISTORIC BED & BREAKFAST INNS 1884 Paxton House Inn (229) 226-5197 Freedom Oaks Bed & Breakfast (229) 227-1749

e Thomasville’s oldest mercantile is Jerger-Johnson Jewelers, established in 1857. Its current location at 130 S. Broad Street was built in 1881 and still contains the original cabinets and old safe. The cabinets were custommade in Cincinnati for the store’s grand opening. e The Mitchell House Hotel, Thomasville’s Grand Hotel era, extended a full block of downtown. Today it offers retail, elegant condominium and loft space. e WPAX Radio Station (c.1920) is the third oldest station in Georgia and the 20th oldest station in the nation. The original broadcasting range reached as far away as Australia (having no other signal interference at the time). e The State Farmers Market (c.1930) on Smith Avenue is the second largest fresh-produce market in the southeast. e Thomas County and its neighbors are located in the coastal plains region of Georgia. The soil in the area is some of the most fertile in the world. During the Civil War, it served as the breadbasket of the Confederacy, and is still highly agricultural today.

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HISTORY OF THE THOMASVILLE YMCA n May 7, 1903, a meeting was held at the Presbyterian Church in Thomasville for the purpose of creating a YMCA. Ten days later, the Thomasville “Y” was officially organized. Property was deeded to the state YMCA, which in turn deeded it to the local YMCA. Within six months, membership had grown to 158 men and boys, and attendance at the Y activities totaled 3,278 for the half-year. Like Thomas Sullivan, who founded the YMCA in America, the founders of the Thomasville YMCA imagined a movement devoted to putting Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

In 1904, the YMCA moved into its new building. It was only through the sacrificial giving of time and money by its members that the YMCA managed to stay open through the early years of its history in Thomasville. As late as 1933, in the very depth of the depression, a motion was made at one of the board meetings to close the YMCA due to lack of funds, but it was the belief in the purpose of the YMCA that compelled the board to defeat the motion and carry on.

In 1945, the Francis F. Weston Center was established on Clay Street. That facility was instrumental in offering children and adults in the community many valuable programs.

As Thomasville grew, the YMCA and the need for better facilities grew. In 1957, the W.R. Milton Center was built in its present location. The name of the facility honored W.R. “Red” Milton. The ‘80s and ‘90s continued the trend of more construction and new services, including programs for after-school care and full day care in the summer for working parents.

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EVERETT-MILTON CENTER FEATURES • All new, state-of-the-art exercise equipment • Active Older Adult programs • Cardio Center with Stairmasters, treadmills, elliptical cross training, rowing machines and recumbent bikes • Spin Studio • Free-weight room with benches and selectorized equipment • Ladies workout area • Basketball gym • Racquetball courts • Expansive indoor aquatics complex • Family and adult locker rooms • Steam, sauna, whirlpool • Aerobics and Pilates studio • Childwatch and Parent’s Morning out

BUTLER-MASON CENTER FEATURES • Aquatic Park with a zero-depth activity pool, two water slides, pop-up fountains, sprinklers and raindrops • Competition Pool with a one-meter diving board and stadium lighting • Gymnastics Center • Game/Activity room with ping-pong, football, air hockey, jukebox and pool table • Gymnasium • Teen Room • Chapel • Cardio/Fitness Room • Outdoor basketball cage • Beach volleyball court • Y Child Care Center

YMCA Butler-Mason Center 1304 Remington Ave..........................229-226-0133 Everett-Milton Center 103 S. Dawson St. ...............................229-226-3446 Francis F. Weston Center 416 W. Clay St.....................................229-226-2482

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In 1999, the city of Thomasville and Thomas County governments contracted with the YMCA to provide the recreation programs for the community. This includes all sports programs (for adults, senior citizens and the Special Olympics) and events (such as the Rose City Run and Christmas parade). In that same year, $8.5 million was pledged to build a new youth facility and to renovate both the Milton and Weston centers. Certainly, the Thomasville YMCAs have evolved and expanded with the decades.

Under strong leadership, a strong staff and thousands of volunteers, the Y’s mission is as strong now as it was in 1903. A tally of volunteer hours shows that more than 95,000 hours are given annually.

In 2002, the name of the Milton facility was changed to Everett-Milton Center to honor George Everett. Both men are recognized for their leadership and years of service as directors. The third center was also completed, and ButlerMason Center was opened in January.

In addition to offering fitness programs, swimming and team sports, these centers have responded to other needs of area families. The Y Child Care and Weston Center offer working parents after-school care and summer programs.

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Today, the Thomasville YMCA is a powerful association of men, women and children of all ages and from all walks of life joined together by a shared passion: to strengthen the foundations of our community.

With a commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility, the Y ensures that every individual has access to the essentials needed to learn, grow and thrive.

Anchored in the community of Thomasville for over 100 years, the Thomasville YMCA has a long-standing relationship and physical presence not just to promise, but also to deliver, lasting personal and social change.

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COUNTRY OAKS GOLF COURSE Country Oaks Golf Course is a municipal golf course owned and operated by the city of Thomasville for the pleasure of residents and visitors. It is located just four miles east of Thomasville on Georgia Highway 122 (Pavo Road).

The warm, southern climate allows the course to be open year-round.

Country Oaks is located in a beautifully wooded setting accented by three lakes and surrounded by wild azaleas, dogwoods, pines, oaks and magnolias. The course has 18 holes and plays to a par 72. Lengthwise, the course is shorter than average (6,207 yards from the back tees), but accuracy is a must with many narrow, tree-lined fairways.

The course carries a USGA rating of 71.1 from the blue tees, 69.7 from the white tees and 69.3 from the red tees. Water is in play on holes #2, #5, #6, #9 and #15.

COUNTRY OAKS GOLF COURSE 6481 GA Hwy. 122 Thomasville, GA 31757

229-225-4333

www.countryoaksgolfcourse.org

Country Oaks also offers a full-size driving range and putting green. The Pro Shop offers club rental, refreshments and a full line of golf merchandise. Lessons are available from PGA Professional Mike Owens for all skill levels.

The course is open Tuesday through Sunday (closed for maintenance on Mondays) from 7:30 a.m. until dark. The driving range closes approximately one hour before dark.

Tee-times are recommended on weekends and holidays.

• 18 hole course • PGA Pro on staff • Driving range & putting green • Reasonable rates • Family friendly

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piritual life flourishes in Thomasville, and people here weave faith into the tapestry of their daily lives. Whatever their persuasion (Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, nondenominational or other), residents gather as local congregations to express their devotion.

Thomasville’s commitment to spiritual growth extends throughout the community, and selfless volunteers donate their time to impact people’s lives.

Hundreds of members of local churches demonstrate compassionate concern through dozens of outreach programs, providing hope and help for the youngest to the oldest citizens of this community.

Funerals • Cremations Monuments • Pre-Planning

allen & allen 226-6331 www.allenfh.com

Thomas County’s Only Crematory

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GROWING ECONOMY — SOUND FISCAL INVESTMENT homasville and Thomas County provide the unique combination of great quality of life and the state-of-the-art infrastructure necessary to support business.

Located on the Georgia-Florida State line, our community is strategically located on six four-lane divided highways to serve the two fastest growing states in the United States. Florida has a population of over 17 million which, added to the nearly 10 million in Georgia, is a larger combined population than Texas, with half the land mass. In addition, our Georgia location provides major real estate and business tax advantages over the State of Florida.

A combination of an excellent transportation system, both road and rail, and high speed internet and telecommunications make this rural community capable of supporting Flowers Foods Headquarters.

Flowers is one of the top two providers of baked products nationally.

Thomasville and Thomas County are designated as a micropolitan community by the U.S. Census. This means that the economic influence is over a greater area than the demographic indicate. Thomasville serves a population of 155,000 in a five county area of rural Georgia. With 122 industries it provides jobs for 40 percent of the area population and 50 percent of the total area retail sales. The real advantage of micros is great quality of life.

Learn more about the powerful state and federal incentives for businesses and industries that choose to locate here.

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PRO-BUSINESS ATTITUDE FUELS GROWTH Thomasville and Thomas County recognize the importance of quality growth. At a time of shrinking industrial opportunities nationally, Thomasville has led rural Georgia with new project locations.

Thomasville has the enviable position of offering a high quality of life coupled with very aggressive rural economic development tools provided by state and federal programs. The OneGeorgia Authority provides, on a competitive basis, incentives for job creation in rural areas. Thomas County can offer special grant opportunities for industries that create new jobs. A Georgia Tech study found that the local economic development effort was so effective that more jobs were created in the community than population growth.

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LEADERSHIP THOMASVILLETHOMAS COUNTY Leadership is vision and action and a foundational key to the success of any community. For 32 years, the Chamber of Commerce has brought together a group of people from the public/private sectors and given them a look into their city and county so they can have a better understanding of the big picture. This program is about empowering people to become part of the emerging leadership team to make positive changes where they live and work.

Leadership provides the history, tools and hands-on experiences to help people connect and make a difference. Every class visits Atlanta and meets with elected officials, commissioners and government/private agencies. Pictured with the class of 2013 is Georgia State Representative Darlene Taylor (District 173).

When a Fortune 500 company such as Caterpillar chooses Thomasville over hundreds of possible locations, it is a validation of the aggressive, pro-business attitude of community leaders.

With a strong, diversified base, the community has achieved a degree of stability that could be a national model. The percentage of industrial jobs for the community is 20 percent, significantly higher than the l5 percent state average.

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Locating in a pro-business state and community is of critical importance to the success of a business or industry.

Thomasville’s strategic location near the nation’s fourthlargest state provides it with the ability to serve Florida efficiently while enjoying the benefits of Georgia’s aggressive incentives for job creation.

Florida’s population of over 17 million coupled with Georgia’s 8.7 million, gives a highly concentrated market total population that can be served efficiently from Thomasville.

THOMASVILLE BANKS Ameris Bank Bank of America Commercial Bank Farmers and Merchants Bank SunTrust Bank Thomas County Federal Thomasville National Bank

THOMAS COUNTY BANKS Bank of Pavo Barwick Banking Company

FINANCIAL SERVICES EIGHT EXCELLENT FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

You work hard for your money, and it is important for your future to be financially secure. If you enjoy knowing your banker and receiving personal service, then you have a choice of eight excellent financial institutions from which to choose. They all tailor banking products and services to fit your needs – always with a smile and a handshake.

There are also financial planning service businesses in the area with advisors who provide sound investment advice.

We’re proud to be a part of progressive Thomas County...

We serve growing industry with fabricated structural steel.

P.O. Box 7750, Airport Road Thomasville, Georgia 31758

229-228-9780 Southern Division 100

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www.cives.com

Change Is Inn Change Is Here

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Complimentary Deluxe Hot Breakfast Bar Indoor Heated Pool Fitness Center Business Center With Free Copy & Fax Services

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Meeting Facility Free In room Hi-Speed Internet Coin Laundry Priority Club Member Benefits

Conveniently located next to Archbold Hospital, restaurants, shopping and historical landmarks. www.hiexpress.com/esthomasville 452 Liberty Street 229-226-4666 1-800-holiday Let us be your Home away from Home

THOMASVILLE REGIONAL AIRPORT The Thomasville Regional Airport, owned and operated by the City of Thomasville, provides important general aviation air service to businesses and private aircraft.

It has four runways that are up to 5,500 feet long and 100 feet wide with precision approach path indicator and medium intensity runway lights. Aircraft storage facilities include single Ts, twins and limited larger units.

The airport has several sites for corporate facilities and hangars. In addition, the adjacent land has several conjoined sites available that provide direct access into operational areas for aircraft activity.

The airport has a rich history. From 1942 to 1945, the airfield was an advanced fighter training field for planes such as the Bell P-39 Aircobra, the P-51 Mustang and other aircraft. Today, the modern terminal building is dedicated to those men and women who trained and served during World War II.

LOCAL FRESH FARE Thomasville and Thomas County are particularly fortunate to have many local producers of a variety of fresh foods and products. Several began as family enterprises in the early 1900s and some provide all natural options.

A tradition of the aviation community is the Thomasville Aviation Club Annual Fly-In. Housed at the airport is Power of the Past Museum featuring a collection of antique planes, motors and airplane memorablia.

Thomasville has the second largest Farmer’s Market in the state, bringing in fruits and vegetables direct from the farm six days a week. The Downtown Organic Market features organically grown vegetables and fruits and often has products from local producers. Eco-friendly items such as plants, flowers, baked goods and other all-natural products are available at the monthly Green Market.

Jersey cows and goats roam freely at Sweet Grass Dairy in Thomasville, a family owned farm, where they produce fresh, hormone free, award-winning cheeses. Green Hill, a double cream cow’s milk cheese, has received first place awards at the American Cheese Society competition.

Thomasville REGIONAL AIRPORT

With a solid commitment to service, hospitality, and friendship - the sky's the limit.

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PLANTATION PROPANE & PETROLEUM

Your Locally Owned Energy Supplier Residential • Commercial • Industrial

Serving South Georgia & North Florida

403 Smith Avenue • Thomasville, Georgia

229-226-5600

800-273-5656 w w w. p l a n t a t i o n g a s . c o m ECONOMIC

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Most people are sleeping at 3 a.m., but not the cooks at Nanee’s. They make doughnuts, rolls, muffins and other delectables fresh each morning.

bakery and is now a baking leader with 36 bakeries around the country. Today, still headquartered in downtown, the smells of fresh bread or rolls waft through the air.

Thompson Farms is a local, family run, free range pasture raised farm and smokehouse that raises all natural pork and then smokes it or salt cures it the old-fashioned way. No growth hormones, steroids, antibiotics or chemical herbicides, just naturally raised. Their peppered bacon is a specialty.

For almost a century in Boston (Georgia, that is), Dillon Candy Company has satisfied that sweet tooth by creating artfully fashioned gourmet specialty nut candies, including handmade brittles and other nut confections such as Pecan Divinity.

While strolling down Main Street, the smells can be mouthwatering. Flowers Foods, a Fortune 500 company, was founded in Thomasville in 1919 as a small family

On a farm near Thomasville, Blackberry Patch harvests the freshest local fruit and preserves them in sensational jams, jellies and fruit syrups. Their recipes are the old-fashioned kind passed down through generations and made from all natural local ingredients like Wild Mayhaw Jelly, a local favorite.

Looking for 100 percent pure ground beef just like your ancestors had? Grass fed beef, devoid of grain supplements, is available today from KBH Farms. The rotational grazing in open pastures is a stress free environment for cattle.

Without the antibiotics, growth hormones or steroids so common today, KBH Farms provides a natural product that has the genuine beef flavor you deserve.

South Georgia is known for its pecans. W.G. Hamil is family owned and operated, offering a full line of shelled pecans, nuts, candy, jellies and syrups.

Nice to know that Thomasville and Thomas County offer so many feel good and good for you selections.

1211 Old Albany Road Thomasville, GA 31792 (229) 228-2600 www.tectcorp.com 104

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Thomasville VISIT

ON THE INTERNET AT

www.thomasvillechamber.com & www.villageprofile.com

TRANSPORTATION KEY TO GROWTH UNIQUE TRASPORTATION OPTIONS FOR INDUSTRY Thomasville has excellent road access with six four-lane divided highways providing access to Interstate 75 to the east and Interstate 10 to the south.

The Port of Savannah provides one of the largest port facilities on the East Coast. Jacksonville’s Port is 150 miles east on the Atlantic, and Panama City provides access to Central America.

CSX is the principal rail provider, and a major switching yard is located in the City of Thomasville.

MAJOR HIGHWAYS U.S. 319 U.S. 84 U.S. 19 State Highway 122 State Highway 35 State Highway 38 Bypass 319 GA-FL Parkway 300

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internet solutions for business and beyond homas County is at the center of the world – the cyber world that is. Nestled among the oak trees is a progressive community that is a leader in highspeed communication. One can enjoy the quality of life that only a rural community can offer without having to sacrifice the networking and resources of a metropolitan area. Local homes and businesses take advantage of a state-of-the-art fiber-optic backbone to stay ahead of the high-tech curve. The Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce is in the business of connecting businesses to one another. The City of Thomasville anticipated the value of e-commerce and I-business, and has taken an aggressive approach toward augmentation of new technologies.

There is no shortage for quality technology partners. Web page designers, graphic artists,

Internet marketing consultants and technology solution providers are eagerly waiting to help you with your business needs. Many local businesses and the Public Library offer free Wi-Fi to their customers, so Internet access is always available even when you are out and about.

The world of technology is rapidly changing, and business has to anticipate those upcoming developments and be flexible enough to change to meet the need. Over 90 percent of adults now regularly use the Internet, so a business marketing strategy has to consider the Internet to truly succeed. Tapping the vast technology resources available to businesses and homes in Thomas County will help you be wired for success at any speed.

Log on to the Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce’s website or check our Facebook page for instant access to information and links for the Thomasville area. It’s like having a 24-hour information desk at work or home.

www.thomasvillechamber.com Website courtesy of Network Technology Solutions

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OF A D V E RT I S E RS ACCOUNTANTS

CONVENIENCE STORES – GASOLINE

Simmons, Mills & Simmons P.C...............................................31 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-2515

Susie Q’s Foods.....................................................................110 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-5183

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

CREDIT UNIONS

ACTS - Air Conditioning Technology & Services .........................55 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-7788

First Commerce Credit Union ............................Inside Front Cover Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-0047

AIRPORT

Rose City Federal Credit Union.................................................34 Thomasville, GA ..................................229-584-1082 / 229-228-9826

Thomasville Regional Airport .................................................102 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-225-4313

APARTMENTS Abbey Lake Apartment Homes ..................................................55 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-1577 Ashley Park Apartments ...........................................................56 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-236-5001

APPLIANCES – HOME – LAWN Sears .....................................................................................56 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-227-5842

A Confident Smile ...................................................................66 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-227-1447 Oppenheim Signature Smiles ...................................................65 Thomasville, GA ........................................................1-866-492-7788 Thomasville Dental Center .......................................................67 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-227-9070

EDUCATION

ATTORNEYS

Southwest Georgia Technical College .......................................41 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-225-5060

Alexander & Vann, LLP ............................................................17 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-2565

Thomas County Schools ...........................................................35 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-225-4380

The Law Offices of Dale S. Davidson, LLC.................................15 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-8183

Thomas University ..................................................................43 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-227-6925

BANKS

EMPLOYMENT – PAYROLL

Ameris Bank .............................................................................3 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-5755

Ambassador ............................................................................15 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-0647

Commercial Bank .......................................................Back Cover Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-3535

New Hire Solutions ...................................................................7 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-227-9003

Farmers & Merchants Bank ......................................................13 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-228-5900

FUNERAL HOME

BURGLAR ALARM SYSTEMS Georgia-Florida Burglar Alarm Company...................................30 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-4826

CABLE City of Thomasville CNS Television & Cable .......Inside Back Cover Thomasville, GA............................................................229-227-7001 Mediacom ..............................................................................57 Thomasville, GA ..................................229-561-7352 / 229-288-7939

CHIROPRACTORS South Georgia Spine & Joint Center..........................................67 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-1035

COMPUTER SERVICES Vickers Computers Services, LLC .............................................57 Thomasvile, GA.............................................................229-224-5562

CONSTRUCTION Culpepper Construction Company of Georgia .............................29 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-0052 108

DENTISTS

www.thomasvillechamber.com

Allen & Allen Funeral Home .....................................................93 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-6331

GAS – PROPANE Plantation Propane & Petroleum ............................................103 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-5600

GIFTS – HOME ACCESSORIES The Gift Shop ..........................................................................83 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-5232

GOLF Country Oaks Golf Course ........................................................91 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-225-4333

GOVERNMENT Thomas County Board of Commissioners ..................................49 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-225-4100

GRAPHIC DESIGN – PRINTING Skyline Graphics Media ...........................................................17 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-228-7575

HEARING AIDS & DEVICES

MILLWORK – ARCHITECTURAL

American Hearing Aid Center .....................................................7 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-227-5905

Bracey Lumber Company .......................................................103 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-0919

HOSPITAL

OFFICE INTERIORS & FURNITURE

Archbold Memorial Hospital.....................................................63 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-228-2000

Accent Office Interiors ...........................................................103 Tallahassee, FL..............................................................850-386-5201

HOTELS

PAPER PRODUCTS & CANDY

Best Western Rose City Conference Center Inn ..........................81 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-9998

Horne Candy and Paper ..........................................................31 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-2931

EconoLodge ..............................................................................5 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-584-0909

PHOTOGRAPHY

Holiday Inn Express & Suites..................................................101 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-4666

Robert Burns Porter - Digital Creations .....................................85 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-379-6939

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Quality Inn & Suites ..................................................................5 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-225-2134

Thomasville Physical Therapy, Inc. ..........................................61 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-228-4155

HUMANE SOCIETY

PHYSICIANS

Thomasville Thomas County Humane Society ...........................73 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-228-0613

McIntosh Clinic, P.C. ...............................................................66 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-225-1900

INDUSTRIAL – MANUFACTURING

Shaw Center for Women’s Health PA.........................................64 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-8800

C & S Machine Co. ................................................................103 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-0901

REAL ESTATE

Caterpillar Inc. ........................................................................99 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-558-5600

Thomasville Real Estate Group, Inc. .........................................83 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-227-0021

Cives Steel Company .............................................................100 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-228-9780

RECREATION & FITNESS

Cleaver-Brooks........................................................................97 Thomasville, GA............................................................800-250-5883 Hurst Boiler & Welding Co., Inc. ..............................................98 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-346-3545 TECT Power...........................................................................104 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-228-2600

Thomasville YMCA ..................................................................89 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-3446

RESTAURANTS Granddaddy’s Barbeque ...........................................................83 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-225-9500 Homecoming Restaurant .........................................................83 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-551-0972

SENIOR LIVING

INSURANCE Caldwell & Langford ................................................................29 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-4511 Bob Hutchison - State Farm Insurance Company .........................1 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-228-0585 Jamil Robertson - State Farm...................................................54 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-225-1000

INSURANCE – THIRD PARTY ADMINISTRATOR Taylor Benefit Resource .............................................................3 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-225-9943

INVESTMENT SERVICES Wellington Shields & Co. LLC ....................................................5 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-0020

LANDSCAPING – IRRIGATION Stony Creek Landscaping & Irrigation .......................................57 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-228-4617

LIBRARY Thomas County Public Library System ......................................45 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-225-5252

The Suites of Woodleaf / Woodleaf Assisted Living ....................71 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-8682

SPA & SALON JMarie Day Spa.......................................................................80 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-225-1466

STORAGE Thomasville Mini Warehouses .................................................55 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-228-5855

TOURISM Pebble Hill Plantation..............................................................83 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-2344

UTILITIES City of Thomasville Utilities ..............................Inside Back Cover Thomasville, GA............................................................229-227-7001

VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATION Hands On Thomas County ........................................................73 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-226-5200

VOLUNTEER – SERVICE ORGANIZATION The Salvation Army .................................................................73 Thomasville, GA............................................................229-228-0504

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