in this issueChairman’s Message 2 Business Profile 3Calendar 4Ribbon Cuttings 5tiP Luncheon 6henry happenings 7Chamber Briefs 10Chamber Membership 10Business After hours 11Business Boosters Luncheon 12Connection Visits 13edward Jones 14

The Henry County Chamber of Commerce serves as the voice for the business community, provides quality

services and programs that meet the needs of its members, improves

the economic environment of the community and creates a legacy of

leadership for the future.

henrycounty.comhenrycounty.comhenrycounty.comA henRy County ChAMBeR of CoMMeRCe PuBLiCAtion youR Business is ouR Business

Hampton • Locust Grove • mcDonouGH • stockbriDGe MAY 2014

Comfortably South

of Atlanta

Chamber members can enhance their business profile on the Chamber website?To enhance your profile today, contact Diane Ide at 770-957-5786.

The Class of 2013-2014 has completed Hands On Henry, a community-wide service project planned and executed by the class (photos and more information about the project will be in the Chamber’s June newsletter.) The project represents

the final learning experience for the class and precedes their May graduation. That means that it is now time to apply for the Class of 2014-2015!

If you are interested in participating in Leadership Henry, or would like more information, visit leadershiphenry.com. The website has information about class expectations, a link to the online application, and helpful tips for completing the application. The deadline to apply is May 29. To keep up with Leadership Henry, “like” and explore the Facebook page, or send an email to leadership@leadershiphenry.com.

August 19, 2014 Class of 2015 Kick OffSeptember 4-5, 2014 Class RetreatOctober 22, 2014 Local Government DayNovember 12, 2014 Education DayDecember 10, 2014 Economic Development/Tourism DayJanuary 14, 2015 Community/County DayFebruary 11, 2015 State Government DayMarch 18, 2015 Healthcare DayApril 18, 2015 Hands on HenryMay 12, 2015 Graduation

Youth Leadership Henry wraps up their year

Apply Now For the Class of 2014-2015

For Leadership Henry and Youth Leadership Henry

The YLH Class of 2014 enjoyed a great year,

learning about the many folks in Henry County that make our community a wonderful place. Their exposure to public safety, education, healthcare, state government, and county history broadened their knowledge about the place they call home and how they can make it better. Their capstone community service

project enabled them to put what they learned in Youth Leadership Henry into action. The class is looking forward to graduation on the evening of May 6th. They join the ranks of alumni who, for the last 18 years, have been using the knowledge they gained from the program and the contacts they made to be citizens who contribute and add value to their community. It is now time to take applications

for next year’s class! Those interested in learning more about the program can visit youthleadershiphenry.com, “like” YLH’s Facebook page, or send an email to youthleadership@leadershiphenry.com to get the link for the online application. Photo: County Historian Gene Morris explains historical significance of sites in the county to the YLH class on a bus tour.

The following calendar for the Class of 2015 reflects the dates of a rich variety of experiences that are planned:

2 HenryCounty.Com

Charlie Scott is President and CEO of Piedmont Henry

On your mark…get set…GO HAVE SOME FUN IN HENRY COUNTY!

Charlie SCott

Chairman’s Message

As spring marches along and the yellow of pollen diminishes, Henry County continues to provide many opportunities for residents and guests. With school coming to a close, many will be planning summer vacations or summer activities. I hope that you will take the time to learn of the many activities that you can enjoy right here at home. If you are a gardener, Henry County has an abundant supply of stores that can meet your every gardening need, whether you are a novice or a master gardener. As the weather warms, it is the perfect time to do that yard improvement, or even just have a few vegetable plants for your own kitchen use. One of the many Henry County merchants that cater to gardening will have just what you may wish to find for that project. If you love fresh produce, but don’t have either the location or inclination to grow your own, there are pick-your-own farms right here to patronize. In mid- to late April, Southern Belle Farms opens its strawberry picking and as spring turns to summer, blackberries and blueberries will be available. Yule Forest will have blueberries in June. Peaches are great at Gardner Farm in Locust Grove. Find an abundance of local produce at one of the cities’ local farmers markets. If you find yourself in need of summer recreation for the kids in your family, the Parks and Recreation Department has any number of summer recreational activities. If you are looking for something less organized, the opportunities right here at home are boundless. Henry County has over a thousand acres of public parks for your use. At Panola Mountain Park, you can hike, camp or even spend the night in a tree, sleeping in a hammock. Moseley Park on Miller’s Mill Road

in Stockbridge has walking trails and a top-

q u a l i t y disc golf course. Windy Hill Park is one of the area’s finest paintball venues. For a special treat, try your hand at geocaching. This rapidly growing sport uses GPS technology and a few fun hints to let you participate in an ongoing scavenger hunt. There are several geocache locations in Henry County and you can create your own to stimulate others to get out there and participate. For those who appreciate history, the museums at Heritage Park and Nash Farms are open to the public and are free. These fine facilities are staffed by knowledgeable individuals who can help you appreciate the experience of these visits. At Nash Farm, you can get an idea of what life in Henry County was like in the 1800’s as well as see artifacts recovered from the Civil War. The site of Kilpatrick’s Raid, this is the location of one of the last great cavalry battles of the war. When you stop by Heritage Park, browse the community gardens, the historical villages and stroll up to the Veteran’s wall of honor. It is impossible to see this memorial and not come away with a greater appreciation of the contribution of Henry Countians to our freedom. Many weekends in Henry County have special entertainment, including car shows, movies, art and cultural events. The Academy

Theatre in Stockbridge and the Henry Players have ongoing shows that will make you believe that you are on Broadway. The Henry

County Arts Alliance has summer events that allow children

of all ages to participate in art adventures. Just a short drive away, Spivey Hall at Clayton State University is one of the finest concert halls in the world. Known for its acoustic excellence, Spivey Hall has a remarkable lineup of world renowned artists. For the animal lovers, the summer could not be complete without a trip to Noah’s Ark animal rescue sanctuary. This is the only place in the world that you can find a lion, tiger and bear living together. Behind-the-scenes and feeding tours are available, or you may just want to stroll through and see the thousands of rescued animals that are enjoying a second chance at life. To have a little more interaction, consider adopting one of the animals from the Henry County Animal Shelter. Many of these are older, well-trained pets who will become great family companions. If you are a race enthusiast, Atlanta Motor Speedway has facility tours that can include a lap around the track. The summer racing series will be an opportunity to see racing up-close and personal. If you are really adventurous, consider one of the special racing schools and see how it feels to circle the track at high speeds. There is no shortage of activities in Henry County for your enjoyment. For more information you can go to www.visithenrycountygeorgia.com for more ideas. If you are looking for someone to help you with any of your needs, use a Chamber member. Our member directory is located at www.henrycounty.com. I hope that you get off to a great start this summer in learning more about your home county.

HenryCounty.Com 3

About the Company Many people know about Farm Bureau insurance, but do not realize that Farm Bureau is an organization made up of two entities. The one less known is the Farm Federation, which existed first. The Federation is a membership organization with the sole purpose of supporting the agricultural community. It plays an active role in social, civic, and educational arenas as well as in local, state and national government. The insurance company was formed later in order to generate funds to provide investments back into the community. Farm Federation members are not required to elect Farm Bureau insurance; however, members are offered discounted insurance as one of their benefits. Farm Bureau traces its roots back to June 1937 when a group of fifty “dirt” farmers from seven Georgia counties met and united for the purpose of having a stronger voice in legislative matters, as well as to strengthen the cooperative marketing of farmer’s products. Henry County Farm Bureau (HCFB) has been in existence since 1941 when the first President, Fred Glass, was elected. Mr. Glass served until 1943. Since then HCFB has operated under the direction of 19 volunteer Presidents, and today is under the direction of Ross McQueen. Henry County Farm Bureau’s membership is 5,500 strong and works to make sure agriculture is protected and promoted in Georgia. Henry County Farm Bureau has played an important role in implementation and holding in force the CUVA and GATE programs, which help Georgia farmers realize lower taxation on farm land and farm inputs. Besides offering insurance, Farm Bureau partners with several companies to offer discounts to its members for such things as, Georgia theme parks, Sea World, car rentals, Sam’s Club memberships, hotel stays, Grainger tools, and a variety of other discounts. The discounts may reduce, or totally negate, the $25 membership fee. Anyone can join Farm Bureau as either a farmer member or an allied member.  Agriculture is the number one industry in Georgia, contributing $71.1 billion annually to our state’s economy. Georgia’s farmers produce food, building and clothing materials, and our products are shipped all over the world. Farmers are the backbone of our state’s economy and a major economic driver in most Georgia counties. For example, Georgia-grown onions account for 55% of the total value of spring onions grown nationwide. Georgia peanuts surpassed $1.1 billion in farm gate value, which equals 49% of the value of U.S. grown peanuts. Georgia is also among the nation’s leaders in the production of pecans, cucumbers, watermelons, cotton, and poultry broilers. As lawmakers become further removed from the actual planting and harvesting, raising of cattle, poultry, or milk cows, they sometimes fail to realize the impact some of their

legislation has on the farmer – which ultimately impacts the cost of food at the grocery store. Farm Bureau’s Legislative Committee works to maintain contact with elected officials and to protect Georgia farmers by monitoring bills before they become laws that may have a negative impact on agriculture, as well as by writing new laws that protect the future of agriculture.

Community Support Henry County Farm Bureau is an interested and invested partner in the education of our county’s students. We have a strong “Young Farmer Committee” that works to identify tomorrow’s agricultural leaders. While HCFB works in many of the middle and elementary schools, they are a presence in all nine Henry County High Schools. Through programs like “FFA” and “Ag in the Classroom” children and youth learn about the origin of their food, animal agriculture, diet, nutrition and food safety. HCFB also sponsors art and essay contests among students, rewarding them with prize money for their work and interest. In addition, HCFB offers scholarship monies to seniors who qualify and who seek to enter college in an ag-related field of study. Farm Bureau members attend local town hall meetings, visit with the Georgia General Assembly, and work with Senators and Representatives in Washington, D.C. Farm Bureau has lobbyists who are vigilant and proactively work to protect and promote Georgia’s agriculture. HCFB hosts a “Meet the Candidate” fish fry each June to give candidates running for local office a platform and an audience so they may be heard in the hope that citizens will cast an informed vote. HCFB also hosts a “Farmer Appreciation Dinner” each August to say thank you to our farmers. Both events are open to the public and the dinner is free of charge. These events serve as investments back into our community.

Chamber Involvement “Henry County Farm Bureau has been a Chamber member since 1996 and views its affiliation with the Henry County Chamber of Commerce as a privilege. We are fortunate to have an active and thriving Chamber in this county and everyone benefits from working relationships formed there. Being a Chamber member gives us insight into the affairs of our county and unites us so that we can promote improvement and healthy growth” says Ross.

For more information about Henry County Farm Bureau, or to join:

770-957-2608www.gfb.org

Business ProfileHenry County Farm Bureau

Ross McQueen, HCFB President

Kathy Carter of the Women’s Committee teaching Ag in the

Class at H.C. schools

Ross and Carol McQueen handing out balloonsJuly 2013 at Farmers Market Showcase

HC Tax Commissioner, David Curry, at Farmer Appreciation Dinner

MAY 2014

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11:30 AM hCCC executive Comm, BR

8:30 AM CVB BoD, BR8:30 AM edu Comm10 AM Membership

Comm, BR

5:30 PM Business After hours, the original shane’s Rib shack

3 PM one henry econ Devp Comm, BR

Chamber Closed

8:30 AM Community Connections Comm, BR

7:30 AM hCCC BoD, BR

12 PM Ambassadors Luncheon

11:30 AM Government Affairs Comm, hR

10 AM small Business Council, BR

11 AM Business Boosters Luncheon, hR

8 AM youth Leadership henry BoD, BR

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4 HenryCounty.Com

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ChaMber STaFFDavid Gill, President and CEOLaura Luker, Director of TourismDiane Ide, Director of CommunicationsGary Sparrow, Membership DirectorPhyllis Reeves, Information Specialist

2014 board oF direCTorSexeCuTive CoMMiTTeeCharlie Scott, Chairman, Piedmont HenryJune Wood, Chair Elect, Individual MemberLeonard Moreland, Secretary/Treasurer, Heritage BankEddie Ausband, Immediate Past Chair, The Ausband Agency, Inc.Brad Thomas, Vice Chair for Economic & Cultural Development, Snapping Shoals EMCWilliam Strickland, Vice Chair for Chamber Development, Bellamy-Strickland Chevrolet-Buick-GMCShane Persaud, Vice Chair for Government & Education, Communities in Schools of Henry County

Jeff Mills, CVB ChairDavid Gill, HCCC President and CEO CLaSS oF 2014James Chafin, Henry County State CourtLisa Kinchen, Southern Journal MagazineLeonard Moreland, Heritage BankSharon Ponder, Bennett International Group, LLCWilliam Strickland, Bellamy-Strickland Chevrolet-Buick-GMCBrad Thomas, Snapping Shoals EMC CLaSS oF 2015Herschel Arant, Central Georgia EMCGreg Hammonds, Whaley Hammonds TomaselloJohn Newman, Classic Landscapes, Inc.Rhett Tucker, Checks SuperstoreLaura Turner, Children’s Healthcare of AtlantaJune Wood, Individual Member

CLaSS oF 2016Toni Davis, Individual MemberWayne Lowrey, United Community BankMelissa Malcom, Melissa P. Malcom, LLCSteve Nail, Nail Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.Shane Persaud, Communities In Schools of Henry CountyDenise Sowell, Cap1tol Street Financial Services Group ex oFFiCio MeMberSTommy Smith, Chairman, HC Board of CommissionersMayor Billy Copeland, City of McDonoughMayor Robert Price, City of Locust GroveMayor Steve Hutchison, City of HamptonMayor Tim Thompson, City of StockbridgeRodney Bowler, Superintendent, Henry County SchoolsBill Herndon, Chairman, Henry County Development AuthorityRoderick Burch, Henry County Water AuthorityMary Evans-Battle, Chair, Leadership Henry

Chair aPPoinTeeSRod Meadows, Meadows & Macie, PCNick Williams, Eagle’s Landing Family Practice

HenryCounty.Com 5

Strawn & Co., Insurance is among south Atlanta’s oldest and largest independent insurance agencies. Our agency was founded by W. Norman Strawn Sr. in 1972 with the purpose of providing property, casualty, life and health insurance needs for local families and businesses. From a small staff of two, Strawn & Co., Insurance has grown to a highly automated center that helps us stay abreast of the continual changes in our industry. Our team of knowledgeable

insurance professionals is experienced in creating personal and commercial insurance policies designed to fit your needs. Our friendly staff will work with you on a one-on-one basis to develop not only the perfect policy, but a lasting relationship. When you work with Strawn & Co., you’ll experience the exceptional  service and attention to detail that you can only find with an independent insurance agency.

Strawn & Co.Insurance

Helping you find the right direction for all

your insurance needs.

Call or Come in Today!16 Hampton Street

McDonough, GA 30253770-957-9005StrawnInsurance.com

PERSONAL BUSINESS HEALTH

april 4Graffiti’s Pizza and

italian Cafe1170 Highway 1555 southmcDonough, Ga 30253contact: adam tallman

(770) 898-0155 www.facebook.com/pages/Graffitis-pizza-and-italian-cafe/199293540137388

april 9TMr Security

Solutions950 eagles Landing parkway, #174

stockbridge, Ga 30281contact: ron shaw

(404) 372-1829 www.tmrsecuritysolutions.com

By Alisa Kirk, Area Director, Clayton State University SBDC

I have to sigh when I talk to a small business owner who asks for marketing tips, but who, when asked the question, “Who is your target market?” answers, “Everyone who buys (insert product or service name here).” Want to know the number one marketing mistake business owners make? It’s failure to choose. You see, it’s extremely difficult to launch an effective marketing campaign if you don’t thoroughly understand your target market. Let’s use a lawn care business as an example. The overall market

for lawn care is anyone who has a lawn. But effective marketing speaks to the wants, needs, and problems of a specific market. “Anyone who has a lawn” consists of large companies, small offices, people with farms, families in large neighborhoods with strict landscaping rules, elderly homeowners with small lawns, and so on. Are the wants, needs, and problems of any of these two groups the same? So how are you going to market to them? Choose. The most successful businesses, large or small, plan specific marketing targeted toward specific segments of their market. Small business owners often don’t have the marketing budget to do multiple marketing campaigns, so it’s imperative

that they choose which target markets to reach out to. A very small business with a limited budget often must choose just one target market. As the business grows, it can add target markets to expand into. But, as I said earlier, business owners are often afraid to choose. They tell me that they don’t want to leave anyone off the table. Here’s what I tell them: “You took a chance starting this business, and choosing a target market that you can fully develop is another gamble. I guarantee, though, that if you examine the most successful small business, you’ll see that in the beginning, the owner(s) chose specific groups to target. Only you can decide if you want to take a chance on success.”

Want Marketing Success? Choose Wisely

HenryCounty.Com6

934 DAILEY MILL ROADMcDONOUGH, GA 30253dbrown@servpro8537.com

OF CLAYTON COUNTYOF DECATUROF HENRY & SPALDING COUNTIES

Danny BrownGeneral Manager

(770) 997-5689(404) 378-9998(678) 432-3003

FAX: (770) 914-1078

Nationally Known - Locally Owned

FIRE & WATER- CLEANUP & RESTORATION24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

BELLAMYSTRICKLAND

McDonough

I-75

I-75 • Exit 216145 Industrial Blvd.

McDonough, GAHwy . 155

BELLAMY-STRICKLANDChevrolet • Buick • Pontiac • GMC Trucks

770-954-3000

*Printed advertisements such as promotional flyers, brochures, etc. cannot be accepted unless they contain a

coupon for a FREE item or service not requiring a purchase.

Tri-colored highlighters • Ballpoint pens • Dry erase markers with eraser • Water bottles • Keychain flashlight • Mini staplerMagnetic memo holder/clip • Magnifier ruler • Memo holder • Paperweight • Tape measure • Mirror • Small calculator • Staple remover

Paper clips / holders • Note pads • Wooden ruler • Small first aid kit • Assorted color gel pens • Stylus • Small packs of tissues • Post-it notes

Reminder: Gift Bag items must be at the Chamber by July 18. Call the Chamber to join the

“Stuffing Party” at 770-957-5786.

The Henry County Chamber of Commerce each year sponsors Teacher Induction Program luncheon to welcome new teachers to our school system – and the coming 2014-15 school year could see as many as 350 teachers new to Henry County. Many Chamber members support this event by way of sponsorships and/or providing useful items for the teacher gift bags. Sponsors

receive recognition for their support in Chamber publications and communications and Platinum sponsor names go on the gift bag itself. Those who provide Items for the gift bags tend to put their business name and/or logo on their items for marketing purposes. Since the number of teachers this year is higher than in past years, and because of the length of lead time required for members to purchase

personalized items, we want to provide as much information as possible and as early as possible to facilitate your planning and ordering. The luncheon will take place on Thursday, July 24. Gift bag items will need to be at the Chamber by Friday, July 18 so that gift bags can be stuffed on July 21. For planning purposes, sponsors need to be identified by June 18. Sponsorships not only reflect your company’s support of teachers, the

monies help to fund the luncheon and provide useful items for each teacher. Please join with the Chamber in welcoming the new teachers to our county – these important people not only work with and train the workforce of tomorrow, they each have significant impact on our local economy. Suggested items for the gift bags include (but are not limited to):*

Gold - $250• Monetary contribution towards the event • Three of your representatives may attend the luncheon to help serve, hand out gift bags, and meet the teachers• Media coverage – Chamber newsletter and communications Silver - $150• Monetary contribution towards the event• Two of your representatives may attend the luncheon to help serve, hand out gift bags, and meet the teachers• Media coverage – Chamber newsletter and communications Bronze - $100• Monetary contribution towards the event• One representative may attend the luncheon to help serve, hand out gift bags, and meet the teachers• Media coverage – Chamber newsletter and communications

TIP Luncheon Could Welcome 350 New Teachers in July

Sponsorship Opportunities

Chamber members stuffed 250 TIP bags in June 2013

7

it’s HappeninG in Henry

Relay for LifeMay 2 – 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.Union Grove High SchoolJoin Relay For Life and communities across the globe to fight back against cancer at the 2014 Relay For Life Henry County. For more information, contact Caroline Windom at 770-632-6937 or www.relayforlife.org.

Rush Ministries May 2 – 3Atlanta Motor SpeedwayRUSH Ministries brings you the worship experience of the year! Featuring Hillsong United, Jesus Culture, Colton Dixon in addition to speakers Pastor Carl Lentz of Hillsong NYC, Marc Pritchett, and Nick Hall!  Visit www.rushministries.com for more information. 

Historic Mayor’s TourMay 3 - 9:30am – 11:00amMcDonough Welcome CenterMayor Copeland will host the historic walk around downtown. Participants are asked to meet at the McDonough Welcome Center at 9:30 am. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Tour is FREE.

Run for the Bun 5KMay 3 – 9:00 a.m.Momentum Baptist ChurchJoin Get Set Grow at Momentum

Church in McDonough for the 6th Annual “Run for the Bun,” benefiting Pregnancy Resource Center. www.getsetgrow.com

Hope Glows 5K & Glow AfterpartyMay 3 – 7:00 p.m.Park @ Sixth Griffin, GAJoin GSG at the Park @ Sixth in Downtown Griffin for the 2nd Annual HOPE GLOWS 5K event and GLOW After Party!! Proceeds benefiting the Eternal Hope Hospice Volunteer Organization.

Ladies Night Out on the McDonough SquareMay 8 – 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.McDonough Square The Main Street McDonough Program and the McDonough Square Merchants look forward to seeing you and your friends downtown. Participating merchants will have prizes, fun offerings and/or special discounts for guests. Don’t forget to register for the drawings and the Grand Prize Giveaway. May’s theme is Mother/Daughter and the Host Business is Moye’s. For more information, call 770-898-9311 or visit www.mainstreetmcdonough.com

Friday Night Drags & Show-N-Shine May 9, 16 & 30Atlanta Motor Speedway Competing nearly every Friday night from May through September,

local competitors power up for weekly drag racing among several divisions. Everything from full-blown dragsters to grandma’s grocery-getter will compete in side-by-side, heads-up drag racing along the speedway’s pit road eighth-mile drag strip. The Show-N-Shine Car Show offers fans a chance to show off their rides in the comforts of the NASCAR garage. Participating Show-N-Shine vehicles will be displayed on the front stretch prior to the start of opening ceremonies, allowing fans an opportunity to walk on the track and look at the show cars up-close. Admission is only $8 and children five and under are free. Visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com for more information or call (770) 946-4211.

Haven House Hustle 5KMay 10 – 9:00 a.m.Locust Grove City HallMore information at www.henryhavenhouse.org.

Moms Rock 5KMay 10 – 8:00 a.m.Downtown McDonoughJoin GSG in celebrating moms of all kinds at the Moms Rock 5K!

Art in the ParkMay 10 – Noon – 5:00 p.m.McDonough Square ParkCome out and watch artists at work or pick up a brush and try your hand at painting. You might just discover a little Picasso inside! This event is hosted by the McDonough Arts Council.

Thursday ThunderMay 17Atlanta Motor SpeedwayAtlanta Motor Speedway’s grassroots racing series Thursday Thunders runs ten weeks throughout the summer giving NASCAR’s stars of tomorrow the opportunity to compete each week

in Legends and Bandolero cars. Kids age six to 11 are admitted for just $2 while adults pay only $6; spectator admission is free for children ages five and younger. Visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com for more information or call (770) 946-4211.

37th Annual Geranium FestivalMay 17 – 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.Downtown McDonoughThe Geranium Festival is an Arts and Craft Festival  featuring exhibitors and vendors from across the Southeast! There is something for everyone at the Geranium Festival including arts & crafts, food, and a children’s area. Experience homemade and original crafts on sale!  There will be jewelry, woodworking, clothing, pet items and much, much more. Enjoy great festival food!  

Richard Petty Driving ExperienceMay 23-24Atlanta Motor SpeedwayFor more information visit www.drivepetty.com or call 1 (800) BE-PETTY.

Tanger’s Memorial Day Weekend SaleMay 23-26Tanger Outlet CenterFind extra  summer savings during Tanger’s  Memorial Day Sale,  May 23  - 26  with a Super Saturday Sidewalk Sale. Shop

your favorite brand name outlet stores! Visit  www.tangeroutlet.com/coupons  for the latest sales information!

8th Annual Peach Stand Road RaceMay 24 – 8:00 a.m.Gardner Farm Peach StandMemorial MarchMay 26 – 9:00 a.m.Merle Manders Conference Center (Starting Point)The Memorial March of Stockbridge is an event hosted by the City to remember and honor men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The event is a ceremonial one mile walk intended to provide the community with a time to fellowship and properly honor fallen soldiers. Registration and check-in for the walk will begin at 7:30 am at Merle Manders Center. At this time, participants will be able to pick up their t-shirt and have a biscuit and coffee. The ceremonial walk will begin at 9:00 am. Please note that this is not a parade; however, if you would like to participate and are unable to walk, please indicate that on your registration form. For registration and sponsorship information please visit the website (www.cityofstockbridge.com) or contact the office at events@cityofstockbridge-ga.gov.

ELHS Ekiden RelayMay 31 – 8:00 a.m.Nash Farm Join GSG and the Eagle’s Landing High School Athletic Department for the first ever Ekiden 12K Relay Race!

Comfortably South

of Atlanta

HenryCounty.Com

www.companioncarega.com

Companion CareCremation Services

“Lillie”

910 Dailey Mill RoadMcDonough, GA 30253

770-692-3819Greg Cannon

owner

HenryCounty.Com 9

PubliCation of henryCounty.Com iS made PoSSible in Part by the SuPPort of the board memberS of the henry County Chamber of CommerCe. THANk YOU!

8

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 75 FIFTH STREET NW, SUITE 175 ATLANTA, GA 30308ECONDEVGA@SOUTHERNCO.COM WWW.SELECTGEORGIA.NET

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

Eddie Ausband, CFP

8 Macon StreetMcDonough, GA 30253770.389.9060 x102eausband@revanta.com

Henry County Chamber ofCommerce

Convention & Visitors Bureau1709 Highway 20 West

Westridge Business CenterMcDonough, GA 30253

770-957-5786

Ethan HildrethSuperintendent

770-957-6601770-914-6178 FAX

ethan.hildreth@henry.k12.ga.us

22 N. Zack Hinton ParkwayMcDonough, Georgia 30253

770-957-3915

City of McDonough

Billy Copeland, Mayor

McDonough865 Hwy.20/81 West

McDonough, GA 30253770-898-1988

StockbriDge850 Eagles Lndg. Pkwy.Stockbridge, GA 30281770-507-5855

LocuSt grove4870 Bill Gardner Pkwy.Locust Grove, HA 30248

770-288-3500

McDonough865 Hwy.20/81 West

McDonough, GA 30253770-898-1988

StockbriDge850 Eagles Lndg. Pkwy.Stockbridge, GA 30281770-507-5855

LocuSt grove4870 Bill Gardner Pkwy.Locust Grove, HA 30248

770-288-3500

Henry County’s choice for

770-775-7857www.cgemc.com

770-946-8088Nail-Air.com

Henry County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

Proudly Serving Henry County

City of Stockbridge

Tim Thompson, Mayor

770-389-7910

10 HenryCounty.Com

Marcia Taylor, President and CEO of Bennett I n t e r n a t i o n a l Group who was named the 2014 Influential Woman in Trucking by the Women In Trucking

organization and Navistar.

Dr. Ethan Hildreth, who was one of three out of 190 school superintendents to be awarded the 2014 Georgia School Superintendents Association President’s Award. Dr. Hildreth is pictured above at the award ceremony with four former Henry County School Superintendents Herb

Garrett; Dr. Jack Parish; Michael Surma; and Rodney Bowler. At left is Dr. Hildreth receiving the award from Dr. Stephanie Gordy,

Director of Griffin Regional Educational Service Agency.

Dr. Avinandan (Avi) Mukherjee on being appointed Dean of the College of Business at Clayton State University effective August 1. Dr. Mukherjee has

served as chairperson of the Department of Marketing in the School of Business at Montclair State University in New Jersey since 2008.

Piedmont Henry Hospital on being named to the Georgia Hospital Association’s Partnership for Health and Accountability Core Measures Honor Roll. Piedmont Henry was one of 23 hospitals in Georgia to be placed in the Presidential category, one of the highest on the list.

Randstad; Clayton State University; Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta; Emory Healthcare, Inc.; Edward Jones; Bennett International Group, LLC; Premier Elevator; Hire Dynamics; Peachtree Planning Corporation on being named by The Atlanta Journal & Constitution a Top 100 Workplaces in the Atlanta area.

Kimberly Underdue, CEO of Underdue Social Services, Inc. on being selected to participate in the Small Business Association’s 2014 Emerging Leaders executive level training program.

If you are a Chamber member with good news to share, send your logo and/or photo and information to dide@henrycounty.com, and let us congratulate YOUR business!

march chamber briefs.congratulations to...

Angelle’s Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc.Cassandra Freeman2030 Avalon Pkwy

McDonough, GA 30253678-432-2300

Black Lion Commercial Real Estate Group Inc.

Nelson Priester Jr.215 LaBrea Blvd.

McDonough , GA 30253404-731-2049

Cruise OneLawrence Barnes

5916 East Lake PkwyMcDonough, GA 30253

770-898-2577

Donna McBride127 Royal Burgess WayStockbridge, GA 30281

678-499-8094

Global Impact Solutions, LLCShirley Arvey

104 Wisteria WayStockbridge, GA 30281

770-714-5719

Graffiti’s Pizza and Italian CafeAdam Tallman

1170 Highway 155 SouthMcDonough, GA 30253

770-898-0155

Light of the World Christian Tabernacle Intl.

Meosha Kimbrough5883 Hwy 155 N

Stockbridge, GA 30281678-565-7001

OnsiteRIS, Inc.Steve Cook

2010 Avalon ParkwayMcDonough, GA 30253

404-952-2600

Shane’s Rib Shack Rachel Settle

2148 Hwy. 20 WStockbridge, GA 30281

770-957-8818

Speedway Tax ServiceFrederyck Odom

140 Oak St.Hampton, GA 30228

770-897-9300

TMR Security SolutionsRonnie Shaw

950 Eagles landing Pkwy. #174Stockbridge, GA 30281

404-372-1829

Way of the Cross Baptist Church

Steven Bell1045 Butterfly Cove WayLocust Grove, GA 30248

404-550-9592

Georgia Flooring OutletGeorgia Wounded Heroes

Goodyear Aviation ProductsHenry County Branch of the NAACPHenry County Cancer Services, Inc

Henry County Library SystemHenry County Water Authority

LifeSouth Community Blood CentersMcDonough Primary Care

Miracle Method Surface Refinishing of Henry CountyMobley’s Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Park-N-TicketPaychex, Inc

Peachtree Peddlers & Peachtree Antique Center

Physical Therapy in Motion, Inc.Piedmont Henry

Plumbing Distributors, Inc.Prevent Child Abuse Henry County

Retirement & Wealth StrategiesSouthern Crescent Habitat for Humanity

Speer Entertainment ServicesStonegate at Eagle’s Landing

Sundance CreekSunTrust Bank - Main Branch

Sutton Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, P.C.Tri-Copy Office Equipment

UPS Store (The)Villas at South Point

Welcome to our neW chamber members

to our reneWinG chamber members

11

May Business After Hours

businessAFTER HOURS

HenryCounty.Com

Hosted by The Original Shane’s Rib Shack2136 Highway 155 N, McDonough

Thursday, May 24th from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Hosted Business After Hours

The March 27 Business After Hours at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta in Stockbridge really brought out people’s true character as captured by a talented local caricature artist. A great number of attendees went home with fun representations of themselves to enjoy. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta has an urgent care facility as well as a sports injury treatment facility co-located on Hudson Bridge Road. Both clinics treat children under 21 years of age. Laura Turner, Community Outreach Liaison with CHOA, introduced CHOA staff members and explained the mission of each facility. “We are so excited to host everyone at our Sports Medicine facility. While we would love to have you visit Urgent Care too, we are open until 9:00 pm each nigh so

our staff are busy caring for patients right now,” said Laura. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is meeting a real need on the southside of Atlanta. The urgent care facility has seen capacity numbers since its opening in August 2012. The sports medicine facility opened in October 2013 and provides a convenient location for Henry County children to receive therapy for sports-related and other injuries/illnesses. CHOA is definitely providing great service to Henry County, and has quickly partnered with numerous organizations to sponsor a number of non-profits and events, thanks in large part to Laura. Numerous door prizes were given away, including a Kindle donated by

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and won by Kevin Smith with Toppan Interamerica, Inc.. Chamber members generously provide door prizes, making Business After Hours even more fun. The following names were drawn for the $400 Chamber jackpot: Christa Johnson with Verizon Wireless Communications; Noel Pagan with Community Christian School; and Ron Spratt with the Morrow Branch of SunTrust Bank. Since they were not present to win, the jackpot increases by $50 for May (there will be no Business After Hours in April in order to attend Belles, Bulls & Buck$ on April 25). To see more photos from the March 27 Business After Hours, check out the Chamber’s Facebook page.

Shane’s Original Rib Shack got its start on Highway 155 and Henry County is proud that they did! Shane’s is “the place to go for the best BBQ, ribs, chicken and more.” What started in a tiny little shack in McDonough has grown to become the model of fast casual BBQ. Founder Shane Thompson quit his neck-tie-wearing corporate job, dusted off his grandfather’s secret sauce recipe and, along with the support of his wife, Stacey, made

his dream of owning a family BBQ restaurant come true. His Grandad told Shane “do what you love, and do it better than anyone else.” That seems to be the key to success as Shane’s continues to grow and expand – even in Henry County. Business After Hours are monthly networking events hosted by Chamber members for current and potential Chamber members and invited guests (adults only please). The events are free and you do not

need to RSVP to attend. Join us and get to know your fellow chamber members, business neighbors, and to make new friends. Bring plenty of business cards for networking and for a chance to win door prizes. Each month there is a Chamber jackpot drawing -- but you MUST be present to win. The jackpot will be at $450 – are you smart enough to be there, and lucky enough to win? Make the event even more fun -- bring a door prize!

CHOA’s Laura Turner hosted BAH

Kevin Smith Won the Kindle

Winning Door Prizes

Akeisha’s Caricature

Ladies of The School Newsletter

Laura’s Caricature by Tony

Need a Caricature Artist?

Call Tony!678-817-0169

www.tonybrischler.com

Entertainment That Draws a Crowd!TM

12

businessBOOSTERS lUncHEOnbusinessBOOSTERS lUncHEOn

The good news is that the economy is slowly, but surely, starting to turn around; and that there is little impact to business taxes and assessments right now. The bad news is that properties that were assessed at lower values in the recent difficult economic years may be assessed differently this year – which may result in higher property tax. Are you left wondering any of the following questions:• Howdoesanassessmentaffectmypropertytax?• Theeconomyisn’tthatgreatyet,sowhywould taxesgoupnow?• HowcanIappealanassessedvalue? In an effort to provide a forum to educate Chamber members on the tax process, we hope you will attend the May Business Boosters Luncheon where you will hear from Charlie Reddoch, Henry

County’s Chief Appraiser in the Tax Assessor’s Office, and David Curry, Henry County Tax Commissioner. These tax experts will explain how properties are initially valued or assessed; how the property owner is apprised of the assessment; the appeal process; and how the assessment ultimately determines the tax amount for the property. The cost for this catered lunch is $12 for Chamber members who register and pay online or $15 at the door and $20 for non-members who register and pay online or $23 at the door. Reservations are required by May 13 for planning purposes and can be made and paid online at www.henrycounty.com. Go to the Events calendar, then the BBL for May 15. To cover catering costs, no-shows will be billed. Lunch will be catered by Gezzo’s Surf & Grille.

May Business Boosters Luncheon

HenryCounty.Com

Over 70 attendees turned out for the March 20 Business Boosters Luncheon featuring Board of Commissioners Chairman, Tommy Smith. Mr. Smith provided a “State of the County” presentation, beginning with the passage of SPLOST IV and reviewing the projects planned for the county and for each district and explaining how those projects were determined. Mr. Smith advised attendees of potential upcoming changes in tax assessments and property tax liabilities; he covered projects that will address the changes needed to accommodate the managed lanes through Henry County; and he answered all questions attendees posed, staying after the lunch to ensure that individuals felt heard and understood his responses. Farm House Catering, located in McDonough, prepared the meal. Several participants won door prizes. To view all the photos from this luncheon, visit the Chamber’s Facebook page.

Farm House Catering prepared lunch

Chairman Smith provides county updates

BOC Chairman Provides County Update

So The Economy Is Improving ... What Effect Will That Have on My Henry County Tax Assessment / Taxes???

May 15, 2014 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Catered by:

Henry County CommissionChairman, Tommy Smith

13HenryCounty.Com

dottie.wise@metrobrokers.commetrobrokers.com/dottie.wise

DottieWISE

Associate Broker

404.843.2500 Office678-443-8407 Direct404.683.0912 Mobile

METRO BROKERS1401 Highway 20 West

McDonough, GA 30253

Each Firm is independently Owned and Operatedwww.cannonclevelandfunerals.com

Every LIFE has a story. Celebrate it!

770-914-1414Greg Cannon

On March 26, Chamber Ambassadors paid a call on the following members to say “Thank You” and to take a gift bag of goodies provided by fellow Chamber members. We appreciate and value the support of all members. You never know when they will drop in…

Chamber Connection Visits

Seiler & Associates, Inc.

Hudson Bridge Animal Clinic

Independence Plumbing Septic & Rotor, Inc

Manor on Main Personal Care Home

Dimension One, Inc.

CorrectMed

RoLanka International, Inc.

Amber Chase Apartments

Kauffman Tire

Courtesy Cleaners

Power Plus International, Inc.

14 HenryCounty.Com

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

Member SIPC

www.edwardjones.com

Financial AdvisorJohn H. Dorminy IV, AAMS®

190 Turner StreetMcDonough, GA 30253

(770) 957-0250

Financial AdvisorPaul D. Rippa

2141 Highway 155 NorthMcDonough, GA 30252

(678) 583-5090

Financial AdvisorLin Watts, AAMS®

305 Olde Towne WayMcDonough, GA 30252

(678) 583-1325

Call today to see how our unique, face-to-face approach makes us best suited to help long-term investors meet their

current needs and future financial goals. It’s likely that your retirement income may come from many sources, such as Social Security, pension distributions, a 401(k) or IRA withdrawals. That’s why, if taxes are a concern for you, it’s important to choose the right investments for your portfolio. At Edward Jones, we have many options that can give you more control over your taxes, so you can enjoy what you’ve worked so hard to achieve.Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax advice. You should consult with a qualified tax specialist for professional advice on your specific situation.

So Much PlanningGoes into Retirement.Have You Thought About Taxes As Well?

FinanciaL Focusturn your Retirement “Vision” into Reality Retirement can be an exciting, active time of your life. But if you’re going to get the full benefits from your retirement years — which could last two, or even three, decades — you’ll need to have a vision for what you want to do. And to transform this vision into reality, you’ll need to take a “holistic” approach — one that involves a financial strategy, clear communications with family members and an awareness of the challenges that may stand in your way. To articulate and achieve your vision, ask yourself a series of questions, such as the following: What do I want to do? When you retire, do you plan on traveling around the world? Purchasing a vacation home? Pursuing your hobbies? Or maybe you’re even thinking of opening a small business. Clearly, you have many options — and you’ll need to be aware

that some choices are going to be more costly than others. If you can identify how you want to spend your retirement years and then put a “price tag” on your goal — or at least come up with a pretty good estimate of how much money you’ll need each year — you can then create an appropriate investment strategy. Such a strategy will include both your need for growth — during your pre-retirement and retirement years — and your need for income, especially during your retirement years. Your investment strategy will also need to be based on your risk tolerance, family situation and time horizon — how many years you have until your retirement. What “roadblocks” might I encounter? As you work to achieve your retirement vision, you may well encounter some “roadblocks” along the way. One significant roadblock is

the amount of health care expenses you might face during retirement. Many people think Medicare will cover everything, but that’s not the case — in fact, you could easily spend a few thousand dollars each year, out of pocket, for health care costs. And since these costs typically rise as you move further into retirement, you’ll need a reasonable portion of your assets to be allocated to investments with the potential for rising income. Even beyond normal health care costs, though, you’ll need to be aware that you could eventually need some type of long-term care, such as a stay in a nursing home or assistance from a home health aide. These costs can be enormous; to cope with them, you need to prepare well ahead of time, so you may want to consult with your financial advisor for possible solutions.

How can I protect my family? Your retirement vision can’t just involve yourself, or even just yourself and your spouse. To fully enjoy your retirement years, you’ll want to know that you are helping to protect your grown children from financial and emotional burdens that could fall on them should you become incapacitated in some way. Among the steps you might consider taking is establishing a durable power of attorney, which allows you to appoint an agent to manage your financial affairs, make health care decisions or conduct other business for you during your incapacitation. Consult with your legal advisor about creating a durable power of attorney. You will find that having your retirement vision come to fruition can be a great feeling. So, do whatever it takes to make it happen.

Establish a sound financial strategy and risk assessment and you won’t need a crystal ball to plan your retirement.

WHEN IT’S URGENT CARE,YOU CAN STILL GET CHILDREN’S CARE.Minor illnesses and injuries can happen at any time. When they do, you don’t have to settle for anything less than our doctors and nurses, who are specially trained to care for your child. For Urgent Care Center wait times,* text CHOA to 4ER411 (437411) or visit choa.org/wait.

* Wait times are updated every 15 minutes and are estimates based on the average time it takes for a patient to be placed in an exam room. Standard messaging fees will apply for texting. ©2014 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All rights reserved.

CHILDREN’S AT HUDSON BRIDGE – 1510 HUDSON BRIDGE ROAD, STOCKBRIDGE

HenryCounty.Com 15

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