A HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUBLICATION | YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS
HENRYCOUNTY.COM HAMPTON • LOCUST GROVE • MCDONOUGH • STOCKBRIDGE NOVEMBER 2020
Staying
OPEN in the New Normal PAGE 7 MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR GIVING THANKS FOR THE JOURNEY PAGE 4
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ECONOMIC GROWTH IN HENRY COUNTY SHOWING POSITIVE MOMENTUM PAGE 6
CHAMBER FEATURE
FACTORS FOR STAYING OPEN IN THE NEW NORMAL PAGE 7 HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
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2 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
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MISSION STATEMENT: To serve as a voice for the business community, provide quality service and programs that meet the needs of members, improve the economic environment of the community, and create a legacy of leadership for the future.
DID YOU KNOW: Sponsorships are available for the Chamber’s online communication tools equipping businesses with information helpful to navigate through the pandemic. Feature your business, products, services or events to a wide audience of loyal Chamber members and the community at large in our webinars, weekly E-News, and on our website.
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VISIT TOGETHER4HENRY.COM FOR COVID-19 UPDATES
IN THIS ISSUE
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CHAIR’S MESSAGE
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CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
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MEMBER NEWS
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
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CHAMBER NEWS
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
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CHAMBER NEWS
Giving Thanks For The Journey
Buy Local or Bye Local
Economic Growth Showing Positive Momentum
The New Normal – Shop Local, Support Small Business
Welcome to new and renewing members
Henry County’s Financials Trending Positively
Henry County Organizations Receive $79,500 for Community Enrichment
Youth Leadership Henry Receives Statewide “Rivers Alive” Recognition
The Henry County Chamber of Commerce Magazine is published by the Henry County Chamber in partnership with the Henry Herald. For editorial information contact Barbara Ingram, bingram@henrycounty.com. For advertising opportunities contact Mary Ann Holland, (770) 957-9161 x223, maryann.holland@henryherald.com. HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
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MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR OUR CHAMBER… BELONG. ENGAGE. LEAD. PROSPER
CHRISTY CHEWNING Member Engagement Coordinator Central Georgia EMC 2020 Chair Henry County Board of Directors
GIVING THANKS FOR THE JOURNEY “We would worry less if we praised more. Thanksgiving is the enemy of discontent and dissatisfaction.” — H.A. Ironside As we begin this month, we are experiencing a pandemic,
At a time when Americans are fed up with politics as usual
an election, and social unrest, my thoughts turn to gratitude.
and the gridlock inherent in a government, I want to give
So, I want to say THANK YOU to each one of you who
thanks for our fellow citizens who have the courage to place
continue to support the Chamber through Membership and
their names on a ballot. This has been a grueling campaign
remain active in our membership events.
season, those that run for office open themselves up to public
I am also thankful for our dedicated Board of Directors and executive leadership. You have taken the time away from your own business to help support and run our Chamber. Thank you for helping to shape our mission and our strategic initiatives. I especially want to acknowledge the work of our
examination, often at a great personal sacrifice. It is not for the faint of heart. So, thank you, for your willingness to lead. Make this month about gratitude. We are living through unusual and trying times that are leaving many of us stressed and frightened. I say we have plenty to be thankful about even in the times that we are living in. Do not forget as
outstanding staff and the volunteers at the Chamber who
holiday shopping begins, think local and support our small
collectively make our organization’s success possible.
businesses right here in Henry County.
4 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE BUY LOCAL OR BYE LOCAL As we approach the holidays – and, yes, most definitely the end of 2020 – we want to encourage you to shop locally to support our region’s recovery postpandemic.
JOSEPH HENNING President & CEO Henry County Chamber of Commerce
From job and business growth to a strong financial and tax base in Henry County despite the pandemic.
In this month’s issue, we discuss the “new normal” that we face. While much is still uncertain, we know for the time being that masks will be in fashion and social distancing will be common practice.
As we start our holiday shopping, let’s commit to “buy local.” Whether shopping, dining, or seeking services, let’s support our neighbors. Let’s support those local businesses that have long supported our teams, our charities, and our community.
We also share highlights of our local economy in 2020.
Remember: In many cases, it is “Buy Local” or “Bye Local.”
Thank you for your support of and interest in the Henry County Chamber. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday.
COMMUNITY DIALOGUE MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM The final 2020 Community Dialogue discussion will take place via Zoom and broadcast on Facebook Live on Monday, November 16 at 10:00 AM. The discussion will review all previous books in the series featuring a guest from each previous discussion. Join us for this interactive discussion to help promote unity and understanding around race relations and equality in our community.
Register now >>
Go to November 16 at henrycounty.com/events
COMMUNITY DIALOGUE AVAILABLE ON-DEMAND To view the previous Community Dialogue discussion broadcasts, check the Chamber’s Facebook Timeline @HenryCountyChamberofCommerce or our YouTube Channel.
Tears We Cannot Stop by Michael Eric Dyson
Using Your Difference to Make a Difference by Tayo Rockson
So You Want to Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo
Talking to Strangers
by Malcolm Gladwell
Blind Spot: Hidden Biases of Good People by Mahzarin R. Banaji & Anthony G. Greenwald
HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT During a recent sequence of economic development wins that include project announcements from The Home Depot, Purple Innovations, Zinus, and Incora, among others, Henry County Development Authority reports that more than 2,100 new jobs were created
ECONOMIC GROWTH IN HENRY COUNTY SHOWING POSITIVE MOMENTUM Although we are still in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic and bracing for a hard, potentially dual infection winter season, current economic indicators are signaling brighter days ahead for Henry County. A positive outlook for Henry County finances was reported to the Board of Commissioners in mid-October supported by CARES Act grant funding, reduced spending, and a 1% change in LOST and SPLOST revenue over last year. As we push through 2020, the county’s positive momentum combines with other growth factors that are presenting strong and helping to offset the lingering effects of the economy shutdown over the spring and summer. Last month, the Henry County Development Authority (HCDA) announced a barrage of new businesses, investments and jobs coming to Henry County. The HCDA rolled out one company after another, domestic and international, amounting to more than 2100 new jobs generating $283.5 million in new 6 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
investments in Henry County. The trend started over five years ago as Henry County recorded some of its greatest numbers of jobs -- more than 6,489, and investments – topping $1billion, during this time. But the clear impact of the volume of investments detailed in October by multiple businesses creating new jobs in 2021 is a major accomplishment, especially during these challenging times. County Manager Cheri Matthews indicates that the County’s sound financial footing is due to ongoing residential and commercial development, spurred by population growth and CHERI MATTHEWS proximity to Henry County Manager Atlanta. “For the first quarter of 2020 we processed 432 building permits, 1065 trade permits, and 459 development permits. Incora, Purple, and Radial have recently announced significant investments in Henry County,” she said. There are also huge tax benefits
during the third quarter of 2020, generating $283.5 million in new investments for Henry County. brought by new industry development over the long haul. The Atlanta Regional Commission projects that Henry County’s population will reach 370,000 by 2050. HCDA Executive Director Josh Fenn explains that because commercial or industrial property only requires $.60/ tax dollar collected in services and a residential property requires $1.40/per tax dollar collected, these investments are key to keeping a balance for Henry County as a whole. Henry County Tax Commissioner Michael Harris, who oversees collection of taxes for the Board of Commissioners, Board of Education, and applicable municipalities, shares his perspective. Asked why Henry County is in its current position of strength, Harris said, “Because the County has positioned itself in a way that supports industry and small business, having this healthy and diverse mix of MICHAEL HARRIS businesses has Henry County meant that while Tax Commissioner
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT some sectors were hit particularly hard (retail, hospitality), we had several other industries (distribution) that helped to offset some of this impact.
RIBBON CUTTINGS
Matthews details why the County has fared better than others through the pandemic, “Our strong financial position is supported by long-term financial planning, formalized fiscal policies, and a history of conservative budgeting, minimizing debt, and utilizing excess reserves to fund capital projects.” Even one of Henry County’s hardest hit industries is seeing a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel. The hospitality industry is showing signs that it is moving toward stabilization -- hotel occupancy rates are ticking upward in recent weeks. When you drill down to individual businesses, in an industry that has the narrowest of margins, there is still a long way to go in the recovery process. But according to Laura Luker, Director of Tourism with the Henry County Convention & Visitors Bureau, “When you look at the numbers holistically or in comparison to other communities, Henry County has been very fortunate.”
THE NEW NORMAL – SHOP LOCAL, SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESS At nine months into the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us have learned how to live safely with the coronavirus still among us. Following the CDC safety guidelines, we have opened our economy and our schools. We are mindful of the surge in cases and the subsequent rise in hospitalizations and continue to do our part to ensure that our businesses can remain open in the new normal. However, as we approach the holidays with coronavirus a real and constant threat, we are encouraging everyone to shop small business and shop local. Starting today, visit the Chamber’s Directory at henrycounty.com for every category of products and services on your list.
ALLEGIANT LOGISTICS
Contact: Shay Dixon 1700 Pennsylvania Ave. Suite 201, McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 255-0471
NOTHING BUNDT CAKES
Contact: Jackie Schwendinger 127 South Point Blvd., McDonough, GA 30253 (678) 232-7409
SOLUTIONS IN HR
#1 CAREER COACHING & RESUME WRITING SERVICES • MODERNIZE YOUR RESUME GET NOTICED, GET HIRED More than 40 million US workers filed for unemployment in the past few months, as the Coronavirus Pandemic brought the country to a standstill. Whether you lost your job, are a recent graduate, or are looking to make a career change, you don’t have to go it alone. The pandemic has affected us all, and we want to do our part to help, so for a limited time, we are offering a free consultation.
CALL FOR FREE CONSULTATION: 678-665-7710
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HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
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CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP RENEWING MEMBERS
NEW MEMBERS
ADVANCED SECURITY AND FIRE, INC.
GEORGIA FOOD & RESOURCE CENTER, INC
ORANGETHEORY FITNESS MCDONOUGH
BLACK TIE FORMAL WEAR, INC.
HEARING DOCTORS OF GEORGIA - STOCKBRIDGE
PAIN CARE, LLC
BROOKS LANDSCAPING
PEOPLE PLUS SOLUTIONS
CARDINAL CLEANING
HENRY ARTS ALLIANCE/HENRY FOR MUSIC, INC.
PRAYING FOR PAWS, INC.
CORPORATE OFFICE FURNITURE & PANELS, INC.
HENRY COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM
QUALITY INN & SUITES CONFERENCE CENTER
D. R. HORTON REALTY OF GEORGIA
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS HOTEL & SUITES
SENTRY MANAGEMENT, INC.
DELTA PLUMBING, INC.
KAISER PERMANENTE
EDWARD JONES - CAROLYN FRASER - FINANCIAL ADVISOR
L & M BUSINESS FORMS, INC.
EFFECTV
LOCUST GROVE PEDIATRICS, LLC
EXPRESS OIL CHANGE & SERVICE CENTER
LUXOTTICA
FANCY THAT FINE JEWELRY
MCDONOUGH METHODIST ACADEMY
GEORGIA CROWN DISTRIBUTING CO.
MONICA DEAN
SHEPHERD CARE HOSPICE SOUTHERN CRESCENT CARE SOUTHERN CRESCENT SPORTS FOUNDATION (OUR WORLD @ HOPE PARK) STARBOUND PR FIRM LLC TABERNACLE OF PRAISE CHURCH WESTERN INN
ELITE MEMBERS SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR ELITE MEMBERS
CHAIRMAN’S CLUB
AMBASSADOR REALTY SERVICE
MARCIA SMITH 303 CORPORATE CENTER DR. STE. 100 STOCKBRIDGE, GA 30281 (470) 452-1964 MARCIA.SMITH@KW.COM
DIVINE DYNASTY INK
LAKEYSHIA HAMPTON MCDONOUGH, GA 30253 (912) 547-2781 DIVINEDYNASTYDDI@GMAIL.COM
MR. HANDYMAN OF MCDONOUGH AND STOCKBRIDGE
LINDSEY JOHNSON 103 JONESBORO RD. STE C MCDONOUGH, GA 30253 (404) 966-056 LINDSEY.JOHNSON@MRHANDYMAN.COM
REECE ELECTRICAL SERVICES ANGELA REECE 21 BELLAMY PLACE STOCKBRIDGE, GA 30281 (770) 900-5419 ANGELA@THINKREECE.COM
SUPERIOR HEALTHCARE SERVICES, LLC
THERESA PUGH 155 WESTRIDGE PKWY, STE. 111 MCDONOUGH, GA 30253 (678) 251-9922 TPUGH@SUPERIORHEALTHCARESVCS.COM
TRUFFLES VEIN SPECIALISTS KRISTINA WALKER 86 VININGS DR. MCDONOUGH, GA 30253 (678) 833-1444 K.WALKER@TRUFFLESVEINCENTER.COM
UPWORK
JESSIE FADAYEL 2625 AUGUSTINE DR. STE 601 SANTA CLARA, CA 95054 (650) 898-9411 JESSIEFADAYEL@UPWORK.COM
USA MORTGAGE
CHAMPIONS
GUSTAVO TOBIAS 1100 SPRING ST. NW #701 ATLANTA, GA 30309 (770) 344-9218 GTOBIAS@USA-MORTGAGE.COM
ZINUS USA INC.
8 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
BROOKE DUFFEY 830 HIGHWAY 42 SOUTH MCDONOUGH, GA 30252 (770) 891-3986 BROOKE.DUFFEY@ZINUS.COM
Henry County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Proudly Serving Henry County
Publication of HenryCounty.com is made possible in part by the support of the Board Members of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce.
2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Christy Chewning, Chair, Central Georgia EMC Lincoln Parks, Chair-elect, Web Mobile Fusion Sharon Ponder, Immediate Past Chair, Bennett International Group Shaun Mock, Secretary/Treasurer, Snapping Shoals EMC Laura Turner, CVB Chair, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Dr. Elna Poulard, Vice Chair for Government and Education, Family Support Circle Morrelle McCrary, Vice Chair for Economic and Community Development, RAM-Tech PC Solutions Steve Nail, Vice Chair for Chamber Development, Nail Heating & Air Conditioning Joseph Henning, President & CEO
CLASS OF 2020 Scott Mahone, Mercer University Kedon Williams, Southern States, LLC Kerry Arnold, Heritage Bank Sharon Ponder, Bennett International Group Steve Nail, Nail Heating & Air Conditioning CLASS OF 2021 Carolyn Wright Fraser, Edward Jones Financial Adviser Morrelle McCrary, RAM-Tech PC Solutions Christy Chewning, Central Georgia EMC Dr. Elna Poulard, Family Support Circle Kevin Demmitt, Clayton State University Thomas Williams, Kaiser Permanente CLASS OF 2022 Brent Huckaby, BB&T Lincoln Parks, Web Mobile Fusion Kena Ceasar, Ameris Bank Maggy Martinez, Starbound PR Firm
Lydia Pierre, Pierre Branding Group Rosa Marroquin, Georgia Power CHAIR APPOINTEES Laura Turner, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Dr. Murray Williams, Southern Crescent Technical College
Mayor Steve Hutchison, City of Hampton Mayor Billy Copeland, City of McDonough Mayor Anthony Ford, City of Stockbridge Chair June Wood, Henry County Board of Commissioners Josh Fenn, Henry County Development Authority Dr. Lily Henson, Henry County Hospital Authority
Shaun Mock, Snapping Shoals EMC EX OFFICIO MEMBERS Dr. Mary Elizabeth Davis, Henry County Schools Superintendent Scott Harrison, Henry County Water Authority Amy Kuhns, Leadership Henry Chair Don Dunlap, Youth Leadership Henry Chair Mayor Robert Price, City of Locust Grove
CHAMBER STAFF Joseph Henning, President & CEO Barbara Ingram, Director of Communications Gary Sparrow, Director of Membership Phyllis Reeves, Office Manager CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU STAFF Laura Luker, Director of Tourism Aisha White, Digital Content Manager Janna Szeto, Partner Relations Manager
HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
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MEMBER NEWS HENRY COUNTY’S FINANCIALS TRENDING POSITIVELY David Smith, Director of Financial Services, gave a quarterly update to the Henry County Board of Commissioners at the October 20 regular commission meeting. Smith presented the current state DAVID SMITH of the county’s Henry County Financial expenditure and Services Director revenues “to allay some of the rumors of our financial condition,” he said, noting the county’s positive financial outlook. He also presented the latest SPLOST figures and COVID-19 response financials. Through his presentation, Smith relayed that Henry County has allocated
$5.1 million to provide a range of resources and services to respond to COVID-19 related needs, including grants quickly mobilized to help small businesses and non-profits. He added that the county is also adapting the mid-year budget to secure a sustainable future if a second spike occurs. “We have awarded (grants) to 36 small businesses and six non-profits to date, and 119 small businesses have applied to date and 34 non-profits,” said Smith. He also detailed revenues and expenditures for the year so far and said that all departments are currently spending below the expected year-todate pace. Smith said that total revenues YTD are $19.4 million, or 12 percent of the total budgeted revenue for the year, although property taxes have not yet been collected. He also relayed that it includes Intergovernmental Grants including $5.9 million in CARES funding reimbursement and said that total expenditures are
Drone Technology: Learn to make money flying a drone! Program is 2 weeks (12 hours) November 3, 5, 10 & 12, 5 PM - 8 PM Southern Crescent Technical College, Griffin Campus. $495/person. Contact Steve Hendrix for more info: 770-467-6072 or steve. hendrix@sctech.edu.
IT’S HAPPENING IN HENRY November 2020
Moms on the Move Mondays, November 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 6 PM - 7 PM, Urban Air McDonough Moms Hour Power Workout and Students Study Hall with Free Tutoring provided by local non-profits and community partners. For more info, contact Sandra at 678-588-0551.
Drive-thru/drop-off Electronics Recycling Event sponsored by Henry County Stormwater November 7, 8 AM - 2 PM, Rain or Shine, Jason T. Harper Event Center, McDonough For details or questions, call 770-288-7244 or email ateachout@co.henry.ga.us. College 101 Virtual Info Session on College Planning Gordon State College & Impact Academy November 12 at 6 PM. Register at EventBrite
10 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
$40.4 million and account for 24 percent of the budgeted expenditures of $167.9 million. He reported that Henry County is only one of three counties in which local LOST and SPLOST revenues have not taken a significant hit, with SPLOST revenues averaging $3.6 million per month. “SPLOST collection and sales are currently averaging $200,000 per month greater than our budget,” said Smith. Smith gave a brief snapshot of both Cotton Fields Golf Course and the county’s airport and said that revenues are trending higher than they were in FY20, with golf course revenues $31,000 better than expenses this year. “Cotton Fields is no burden on our general fund at this point in time,” said Smith. He added that the airport is operating at $18,000 better than expenditures year to date.
Henry County Master Gardeners Cookbook Sale Begins November 16, $15 each. Contact Henry County Extension Office, 770-288-8421 to purchase. 2021 Miss Georgia USA & Miss Georgia Teen USA Pageants November 19 21, Henry County Performing Arts Center Old Abe Book Presentation November 19, 6 PM - 7 PM, Story on the Square event room, McDonough Meet the author and his vision that made this an incredible work of art. Bar will be open for drinks and appetizers. For info, call 678-759-0079.
Yule Forest Christmas Tree Farm Opens November 21, www.yuleforest.com 3565 Hwy. 155 N, Stockbridge, 770-954-9356 Lighting of the Tree November 26, 6 PM - 8 PM, Locust Grove City Hall Lawn Ring in the Holiday Season with the City of Locust Grove! We’ll light the tree, sing carols, and welcome Santa to Locust Grove! Small Business Saturday November 28, 10 AM - 4 PM, Downtown McDonough Come #shopsmall with us!
MEMBER NEWS SANGSIN TECHNOLOGY AMERICA ANNOUNCED AS 2020 ‘GEAR AWARD’ WINNER BY GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
2020 GSSA NAMES PRESIDENT’S AWARD WINNER The Georgia School Superintendents Association (GSSA) recently recognized Dr. Mary Elizabeth Davis, the Superintendent of Henry County Schools, for the 2020 GSSA President’s Award. This award is given to superintendents for outstanding leadership in their school systems and communities. Dr. Davis has worked with the Henry County Board of Education DR. MARY ELIZABETH to focus its work around a set of DAVIS core beliefs and commitments Superintendent, born out of a community-driven set Henry County Schools of strategic priorities. The award recognizes Dr. Davis for other notable accomplishments including her leadership in establishing HCS teaching & learning standards, providing sound fiscal management, taking measures to ensure the safety and security of every student and staff member in the district, excelling in communication and community outreach, and for leading the district to achieve the largest CCRPI increase of any metro Atlanta school district in the 2019-2020 school year.
Supplier of the Year – employing 199 or fewer people: Sangsin Technology America Supplying to companies like Vanguard, Great Dane and others, Sangsin continues to innovate and demonstrate great leadership within the mobility industry. Their manufacturing facility in McDonough currently employs approximately 30 people in Georgia. The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) has named Sangsin Technology America, McDonough, as one of five Georgia companies who earned its 2020 Georgia Emerging Automotive Recognition (GEAR) Awards. Sangsin Technology America received the Supplier of the Year award in October for a company employing 199 or fewer people. The GEAR Awards are designed to recognize forward movement in the state’s automotive and mobility industries through innovation and emerging technologies.
STOCKBRIDGE ANNOUNCES CARES ACT GRANT FUNDING FOR CITY BUSINESSES In response to the economic impact of the COVID-19, the City of Stockbridge, Georgia, has received CARES Act funding to implement the Stockbridge CARES Act Grant, a small business grant program to support the needs of eligible Stockbridge businesses directly impacted by COVID-19. In partnership with the City, the Henry County Chamber of Commerce will be accepting, reviewing, and recommending submitted applications from businesses licensed in Stockbridge.
The Stockbridge CARES Grant will provide grants up to $10,000 to eligible small businesses. Grant funding can be used for working capital to support payroll expenses, rent, mortgage payments, utility expenses, or other similar expenses incurred by the business between March 1, 2020 and December 30, 2020. Questions regarding the Stockbridge CARES Act Grant can be emailed to jhenning@henrycounty.com. Funds will be available and approved on a first come basis. For more information and access to the application, visit:
www.henrycounty.com/news/ HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
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CHAMBER NEWS CANDIDATE CONVERSATIONS 2020 Candidate Conversations is a series of interviews held with individuals whose candidacy for public office representing Henry County will be decided in the November 3, 2020, elections. The Henry County Chamber of Commerce produced the interviews to provide voters an additional opportunity to hear from the candidates via an online forum as the citizens continue to weather COVID-19. The videos of those who chose to join us in the dialogue are available on the Chamber’s Facebook page.
Running for Georgia House District 73, candidates William Harris and Karen Mathiak (Incumbent) agreed to interviews for the Chamber’s 2020 Candidate Conversations video series.
HENRY COUNTY RECEIVES $79,500 FOR COMMUNITY ENRICHMENT Central Georgia EMC has donated funds to several Henry County entities. The Chamber of Commerce, Development Authority and Board of Education were presented with checks totaling $79,500 to go toward education, community and economic development activities. The Henry County Development Authority was presented with a check for $20,000 for its Targeted Industry Study, which focuses on four industry sectors that contribute to private-sector job growth, wealth creation and the economy’s diversification. The donated monies come from unclaimed capital credits that remain with CGEMC after five years. Capital credits are margins over and above the cost of providing service for Central Georgia EMC customer-owners for a specific year after financial obligations have been met. Unclaimed capital credits that remain after five years stay in the communities served by Central Georgia EMC for the sole purposes of funding education, economic development, and 501(c)(3) charitable organizations in the EMC service area.
Annual Service Project Receives Statewide “Rivers Alive” Recognition By Don Dunlap, Chair Youth Leadership Henry Our program participants do a service project each year to give back to our community. In recent years we have been able to make this another learning experience as well, by partnering with the Henry County Water Authority for the day. We begin in a classroom setting, learning about the history and role of the water authority in our community, and types of pollution. The class then visits one of the water treatment plants to see some of the treatment infrastructure at work. We then go to an area of the reservoir where debris piles up (what we learned is “point-source” pollution), and clean that area up, as part of the “Rivers Alive” initiative of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Our March 2019 cleanup project was selected for statewide recognition as the recipient of the Georgia Club Award for Rivers Alive. The presentation was originally scheduled to take place this spring, but was postponed due to pandemic response, and ultimately was done online on September 24. In response to an invitation to submit a one-minute video to be played during the award presentation, Lindsey Sanders, 12 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
Environmental Compliance Office, YLH Chair Don Dunlap, and Adonna McBride obliged. You can find our video on our Youth Leadership Henry Facebook page, where you can also see a lot of what many of the classes have done for the past several years as well. To keep up with the classes, just “like” our page; and follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @YLHenry.
Class of 2019, Adonna McBride recorded a segment that was included in an acceptance video for the Rivers Alive award.
CHAMBER NEWS
VIRTUAL BUSINESS BOOSTER LUNCHEON Thursday, November 5, 2020 •12:00 NOON ONLINE
SHOP SMALL, SHOP LOCAL – MAKING THIS OUR NEW NORMAL Small Business Saturday falls on Saturday, November 28 this year. However, the annual shopping tradition, always reserved for the Saturday after Thanksgiving, is being co-opted by the Chamber to help Henry County residents incorporate the concept as part of our “New Normal.” In support of our local small businesses, join us on Thursday, November 5, for our Virtual Business Booster Luncheon, moved up to get a jump on the holiday shopping season. Hear from local business and civic leaders about how you can help
create a big impact just by spending local. Bring your lunch and join this discussion so relevant for business leaders and employers of Henry County. To register, visit the Chamber website Events page at henrycounty.com.
VIRTUAL BUSINESS BOOSTER LUNCHEON – OCTOBER RECAP HCS Offers High Quality Work-Based Learning Program The Business Booster Luncheon (BBL) held on October 15 provided insight about WorkBased Learning (WBL), a program that is part of Henry County Schools Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE), a program supervised by Dr. Yvette Dupree. The information-filled webinar was dual broadcast on Zoom and Facebook Live and viewed by hundreds in the weeks DR. YVETTE DUPREE following. Dodie Cason, the Chair WBL Supervisor/YAP Coordinator of the Henry County Chamber’s Small Business Council (SBC) and Heritage Bank AVP, Business Banker, opened the event providing an overview of the role of the SBC and introduced the event moderator Chamber President Joseph Henning. Dr. Dupree walked the viewers through a comprehensive overview of WBL and described the program that employs hundreds of local highschool juniors and seniors with local employers as the “pinnacle of the career-related experience.” Work-Based Learning programs are structured educational experiences that integrate classroom learning with productive, structured work experiences, related to a student’s career goal. WBL students can choose from 52 different career pathways that will prepare them to earn industry recognized credentials or post-secondary credit upon completion. The many benefits of the highly successful WBL program
were detailed for students, employers and the community. When asked to provide a wish list of employers needed to fulfill the growing demand of the WBL career choices, Dr. Dupree placed healthcare at the top of the list. “We’ve enjoyed a wonderful partnership with Piedmont Henry, but there’s a need to expand into more healthcare facilities.” Additional high demand career pathways are automotive, diesel, welding and entrepreneurship. To view the full BBL webinar, visit the Chamber’s Facebook page videos. Businesses interested in parterning with the WBL program, may contact Ms. Yvette Dupree at yvette.dupree@ henry.k12.ga.us.
Henry County Tax Commissioner’s Office
140 Henry Parkway • McDonough, GA 30253
Michael Harris Tax Commissioner (770) 288-8139 mharris@co.henry.ga.us • www.henrytc.org HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
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CHAMBER FEATURE
HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC
A SUCCESS OUTSIDE AT HERON BAY Crisp and cool fall weather set the perfect morning for the Henry County Chamber of Commerce’s 20th Annual Golf Classic held Monday, October 5, 2020, at the Heron Bay Golf & Country Club in Locust Grove, GA. The Classic was the Chamber’s first on-site event since the COVID-19 economic shutdown that began earlier this year. The event was sponsored by local businesses from throughout Henry County as follows: GOLD SPONSORS:
SILVER SPONSORS:
Snapping Shoals EMC
AT&T
Heritage Bank
SERVPRO of Henry & Spalding Counties
Kaiser Permanente
Bennett International
Outback Steakhouse
State Farm – Brian Andrews
BB&T | SunTrust | Now Truist
United Community Bank
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
Smith, Welch, Webb & White
Central Georgia EMC
Henry County Development Authority
Georgia Power
Following a shotgun start, the teams enjoyed lunch sponsored by Honey Baked Ham. The players finished their rounds easily and stood by as scores were added to the board to determine winners in the annual contest. A hearty dinner was sponsored and served by Outback Steakhouse.
Honey Baked Ham Co. and Cafe 1000 Tanger Drive Box 42 Locust Grove, GA 30248 (770) 898-0703 14 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
Outback Steakhouse 200 North Park Place Stockbridge, GA 30281 (770) 507-4198
CHAMBER FEATURE
1st Place Team - Wells Fargo Wells Fargo team (pictured L to R) Taylor Jernigan, Andy Patterson, Gary Sparrow, Director of Membership, Henry County Chamber of Commerce, Joe Brown, and Kelly Yielding
3rd Place Team - Herc Rentals Grady Sikes, Jared Hardy, Gary Sparrow, Director of Membership, Henry County Chamber of Commerce, and Phillip Moore, Josh Nelson
2nd Place Team - United Community Bank (L to R) Rusty Strawn, Ken Palmer, Wayne Lowrey, and Steve Meyer
Putting Green Contest Tyler Norris (L), pictured with Gary Sparrow, Director of Membership, Henry County Chamber of Commerce, was the winner by one-half inch in the Putting Green Contest.
Closest to the Pin (Hole # 3) Shepherd Care Hospice sponsored the Closest to the Pin and Longest Drive contests. Winner of the Closest to the Pin Rusty Strawn (not pictured) was awarded a Callaway golf bag donated by Shepherd Care Hospice.
Longest Drive (Hole #10) Longest Drive contest winner Andy Patterson (R), shown with Gary Sparrow, Director of Membership, Henry County Chamber of Commerce. HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
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Powering Our Powering Our Communities Powering Our Communities
MCDONOUGH
865 Hwy.20/81 West McDonough, GA 30253
770-898-1988
STOCKBRIDGE
850 Eagles Lndg. Pkwy. Stockbridge, GA 30281
770-507-5855
LOCUST GROVE
4870 Bill Gardner Pkwy. Locust Grove, HA 30248
Communities Henry County is our home too.why, for Henry County is our home too. That’s why, too. for 90 years, we’ve Henry CountyThat’s is our home 90 years, partnered with local chambers, with local chambers, That’s why,we’ve forpartnered 90 years, we’ve partnered with local chambers, development authorities and elected development authorities and elected officials across development authorities and elected officials across Georgia to help officials across Georgia to and help Georgia to help bring jobs and investment to the bring jobs investment to the bring jobs and investment to the state – 134,000 more thanjobs 134,000 jobs andbillion state more than and $25.5 state – more than 134,000 jobs and $25.5investment billion capital investment $25.5 billion capital capital investment overdecade the past decade alone. over the past alone. over the past decade alone.
770-288-3500
Dr. Mary Elizabeth Davis Superintendent
770-957-6601 770-914-6178 FAX
www.henry.k12.ga.us 22 N. Zack Hinton Parkway McDonough, Georgia 30253
YOUR SOURCE OFPOWERANDINFORMATION.
City of Stockbridge
Anthony S. Ford Mayor 770-389-7910
4640 North Henry Boulevard Stockbridge, GA 30281 https://www.cityofstockbridge.com/
City of McDonough
Billy Copeland, Mayor
136 Keys Ferry Street, McDonough, GA 30253 770-957-3915 • mcdonoughga.org
City of Locust Grove Robert Price, Mayor 3644 Highway 42, Locust Grove, GA 30248
(770) 957-5043 locustgrove-ga.gov
1709 Highway 20 West Westridge Business Center McDonough, GA 30253
(770) 957-5786 henrycounty.com
16 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
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HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
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305 Olde Towne Way Mcdonough, GA 30252 678-583-1325
Craig Carroll 305 Olde Towne Way Mcdonough, GA 30252 (678) 583-1325
Member SIPC I www.edwardjones.com
18 | HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.henrycounty.com
