Business View Q1 - 2024

WELCOMETO BUSINESSVIEW

Welcome to the latest edition of Business View, where we dive into the highlights of the Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce's first quarter of 2024. Get an insider's look as we introduce you to our dedicated staff and share their unique perspectives. Discover the newest additions to our Chamber family as we extend a warm welcome to our new investors. Join us in celebrating local business growth and success through our ribbon-cutting ceremonies. Plus, explore the diverse range of events and programs offered by the Chamber, designed to empower our community and foster economic vitality. Get ready to dive in and join us as we keep building a strong, thriving community together!

Maggie Milner, President & CEO

Rachael Bradley, PR Director

Robbie King, Business Engagement Director

Hannah Tyson, Tourism Director

Whitley Cannon, Welcome Center Manager

Eatonton-Putnam

Christina Hinz, Chairman PUTNAM COUNTY CHARTER SCHOOL SYSTEM

Lisa Jackson, Treasurer PUTNAM COUNTY PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

Holly Hackinson, Vice Chairman LAKE OCONEE LIFE & LAKE SINCLAIR LIFE

Dr.Jameelah Gater LAKE OCONEE URGENT CARE & WELLNESS

Justin Strickland TRI-COUNTY EMC

Amy McElhenney FARMERS & MERCHANTS BANK

Lennie Brame GEORGIA POWER

Ford Jones DELL LAW FIRM

Doris Clemons THE PEOPLES BANK

Matt Hammons ROCK EAGLE 4-H CENTER

Tim Broyles

BROYLES STATE FARM

Susan Usry THE PLAZA

CENTER

CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD FROM THE

I want to take a moment to let our Board, Investors, and the larger business community know how grateful I am to be serving as the Chair of the Board for the Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce this year.

Welcome to our new Board members! Thank you for your dedication to our community and its businesses. I look forward to collaborating with you this year and in the future.

To our returning Board members, thank you for all the time, talent, and hard work you dedicate to the Chamber! It is because of your service that we can promote and foster support for our Eatonton-Putnam businesses. I know that all our Board members wear other leadership hats in our community. I appreciate your service and volunteerism.

Thank you to our investors for your continued support of the Chamber. Please do not hesitate to stop by and meet the amazing Chamber staff or contact me to let us know how we can further assist with your business needs. We aim to continue providing dynamic support to our current investors and invite new investors to the table.

I look forward to the events that will bring us together throughout the year! I hope that we can te l for a productive year!

All the best,

Christina M. Hinz

PRESIDENT FROM THE

The first Quarter of 2024 has likely been the most bustling start to a year I’ve seen at the Chamber since I’ve been here. We have welcomed over a dozen new investors into our family and celebrated even more with anniversaries and new locations for others.

We’ve already held our first big event, our Annual Sweet Tee Off Golf Tournament, and it was a wonderful success! Our team came together and made the day extra special for our golfers.

I’m feeling the energy and momentum building and believe we are going to have our best year yet!

PUBLIC REL

What an eventful start to 2024 it has been! We've been keeping busy with six Ribbon Cuttings, two Business Breakfasts, two Business After Hours and the successful launch of our Women in Business initiative. And let's not forget the memorable 10th Annual Sweet Tee Off! On a personal level, being part of this year's Leadership Putnam Class has been an enriching experience. The connections I've made and the friendships formed have been truly rewarding. The camaraderie and support within the group have been exceptional. I cannot stress enough the value of participating in Chamber programs. It's not just about professional growth; it's about expanding your network, fostering meaningful relationships, and gaining valuable insights. To all the investors out there, I urge you to seize these opportunities. The benefits extend far beyond the realm of business. Engage, participate, and witness the positive impact on both your personal and professional life!

RachaelBradley

As we say goodbye to winter and welcome spring, it's exhilarating to witness the remarkable journey of the Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce. Stepping into the role of Director of Business Engagement has been an incredibly rewarding journey. Each day brings new opportunities to connect with passionate business owners, dedicated investors, and a community that is earnestly rallying for collective success. The level of engagement we've experienced recently is truly unprecedented. From innovative networking events to enriching programs tailored for our businesses, it's clear that the Chamber is pulsating with energy and creativity

Witnessing firsthand the impact of our initiatives, it’s a privilege to be part of a team that’s not just aiming for economic prosperity but is also creating and cultivating community. My role allows me to be at the crossroads of innovation, collaboration, and community development, making each challenge an opportunity to enhance our collective journey toward a brighter future. The enthusiasm and commitment of our team and investors inspire me daily, and I am truly excited to see where our shared vision will take us next.

Let's keep this momentum going! Your enthusiasm, investment, and participation are the lifeblood of the Chamber and the cornerstone of our collective success.

Here's to an even more dynamic, prosperous, and exciting quarter ahead!

Robbie King

MEETWhitley

My name is Whitley Cannon. I graduated from Lake Oconee Academy in May of 2023. I attended Georgia Southern University for a semester in the fall but came back to Eatonton to pursue a full-time job back in my hometown. I have always loved being an active member of my community. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with my family and friends. I love to stay active and am always up for going on new adventures and meeting new people!

to express and advocate to new visitors what makes Eatonton-Putnam County such a lovely place to visit. My number one goal is

I am more than excited to join this great team and become a part of something really special in this small, sweet town that I call home. Eatonton has always held a special place in my heart and now I have the opportunity to make sure that everyone receives the best experience when coming into our Welcome Center!

9114HarmonyCrossing

BBON TTINGS

101WalmartWay,

Oconee Valley

Grease Monkey

SweetTeeOff

The 10th Annual Sweet Tee Off was a huge success! Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to every individual whose efforts contributed to the success of this remarkable day. A massive shout-out to our incredible sponsors, teams, and volunteers for their unwavering support and dedication. Your contributions truly made a difference!

We hope to see you all next year!

Sponsors

TITLE SPONSO

PAXIS GROUP

JOE’S ROOFING

EXCHANGE BANK

RALIN CONSTRUCTION

LAKE OCONEE LIFE

RESPONSIVE TECHNOLOGY PARTNERS

WALLACE & KING REAL

ESTATE TEAM

CHICK-FIL-A

CENTURY BANK & TRUST

SELLING SINCLAIR

AFFINITY OUTDOOR

LIVING

TUCKER BREWING COMPANY

INTERFOR

ZAXBYS

UFP PACKAGING

BILLY WEBSTER

HARGRAY

BANKSOUTH

TRI-CO-GO

TRI-COUNTY EMC

FARMERS & MERCHANTS

BANK

DELL LAW FIRM

REALTY ONE

DIXON GOLF

ALFA INSURANCE- LAZARO

VALLE AGENCY

OCONEE BEAUTY BAR

CENTRAL GEORGIA

TECHNICAL COLLEGE

MUTUAL OF OMAHA

MORTGAGE - JESSI LYNCH

FICKLING & COMPANY LAKE COUNTRY

1st - J&J Brick

2nd - Paxis Group

LEADERSHIPPUTNAM‘24

The Leadership Putnam Class of 2024 hosted two successful events this quarter. Their first endeavor, the Leadership Putnam Golf Tournament, aimed to secure sponsorships and teams to fund their subsequent event. With a goal of $4,000, they exceeded expectations by doubling the amount through their hard work and dedication. The proceeds were allocated to a Free Community Event, featuring an Easter egg hunt, bounce houses, face painting, storytelling sessions with Miss Georgia, and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny. As this class concludes the Leadership Putnam program, their graduation ceremony is scheduled for later this April. Despite the formal classes concluding, their commitment to community service endures, ensuring their continued presence and impact within the community.

WOMEN BUSINESS in

Introducing our new series aimed at fostering a supportive community where women can thrive in the professional arena! More than just a lunch, this series offers a unique opportunity to come together and gain valuable insights from dynamic women who've excelled in their fields.

Dr. Meigan Miller, DMD

The inaugural event, focusing on Women's Wellness, was a resounding success, with tickets selling out quickly. Attendees had the privilege of hearing from Dr. Meigan Miller, DMD, and Charlene Brooks, FNP-C, making it an enriching experience for all involved.

Charlene Brooks, FNP-C

In February, the Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce hosted "The State of the City and County" as a part of the business breakfast series. Local leaders came together to provide valuable insights into the progress and future direction of Eatonton and Putnam County Mayor John Reid and County Commissioner Bill Sharpe took the stage, delivering engaging speeches that highlighted key developments, challenges, and opportunities within the community. Attendees were treated to comprehensive updates on various initiatives, economic growth prospects, and civic endeavors.

At the latest installment of the Business Breakfast Series, the spotlight was on the crucial topic of "Business Ethics," where Jason Blankenship, Vice President at the Better Business Bureau, took center stage to delve into the importance of ethical practices in the business world. Blankenship's unique approach infused the discussion with humor and levity, making the often complex subject matter both accessible and enjoyable for attendees Through his engaging and light-hearted style, Blankenship successfully emphasized the ethical principles that underpin successful and sustainable business operations.

Our February Business After Hours took place at Bruzze Brewing, offering the perfect setting for networking and relaxation. Dough Daddy Dough also rolled in with their food truck, offering attendees the opportunity to indulge in some delicious pizza

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

The March Business After Hours, held jointly with the Greene County Chamber and the Rotary Club, took place at Harbor Club, drawing an impressive turnout. Attendees enjoyed fantastic food and drinks, making it a memorable evening of networking

CHAIRMAN’S CLUB 2024

Tim