Quarterly Commerce Spring 2021

QUARTERLY COMMERCE THE EATONTON-PUTNAM CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SPRING 2021

YOUR TAXES, YOUR CHOICE!

Through the Georgia HEART rural hospital tax credit program, the state of Georgia is allowing YOU to decide how your tax dollars are spent.

Don’t miss out on this incredible chance to contribute to Putnam General Hospital in exchange for a 100% state income tax credit!

The HEART tax credit program is an excepIonal opportunity provided to Georgians by its elected officials. We are the only state in the naIon whose taxpayers can financially support our state’s rural hospitals – at no cost!

TOGETHER, LET’S EXPAND OUR HEART IN THIS CRITICAL YEAR. YOUR SUPPORT IS ESSENTIAL!

Not only will you receive a 100% Georgia income tax credit, but there is poten=al for economic benefit at the federal level for business owners.

For more informa=on contact: Lisa Tubbs Ltubbs@putnamgeneral.com

LEARN MORE AND SUPPORT OUR HOSPITAL BY APPLYING FOR YOUR 2021 TAX CREDIT AT GEORGIAHEART.ORG

QUARTERLY COMMERCE / SPRING 2021

3

THE CHAMBER STAFF Maggie Milner President president@eatonton.com Michael A. Payne Membership Director membership@eatonton.com

CONTENTS Welcome from the Chairman of the Board......................................................5

Lacey Cummings Tourism Marketing & Special Events Coordinator tourism@eatonton.com

President’s Update................................................................................................6 Membership Update.............................................................................................9

Q1-2021 Renewals..............................................................................10

Q2-2021 New Members....................................................................11

Membership Benefits..........................................................................12

Cover Photo Provided By: Jarrod Brock

Tourism Update....................................................................................................14

Alice Walker Driving Tour Revisited................................................16

Tri-County EMC’s $47 Million Investment....................................................18 BlueStem Doubles Down in Putnam...............................................................19 The Eatonton Elks #2549/Hargray.................................................................20

The Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce P.O Box 4088 108 W. Marion Street Eatonton, GA 31024 706.485.7701

Anchors Marina - The Lake Country’s Newest Marina..............................22 Welcome to Putnam County - Mercer Medicine.........................................23 Leadership Putnam 2021..................................................................................24 Taste of Eatonton................................................................................................28 Community Partnerships - Economic Development

Meet Christina Hinz............................................................................30

Meet Pat Topping.................................................................................31

4

SPRING 2021 / QUARTERLY COMMERCE

Published by: SMITH COMMUNICATIONS, INC. Eatonton | Lake Oconee | Madison 706.485.3501 | msgrnews.com

Welcome

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

From the Chairman of the Board

To say that 2020 has been a challenging year doesn’t come close to showing the level of struggle, anxiety, and frustration we have all faced. Since March of 2020, the Chamber has worked tirelessly to support our members and the community. We shifted not only our resources to connect with you individually, try to understand how each of you was impacted financially but the Chamber held strong and also had an entirely new staff hired during one of the more uncertain times in the business community.

Our new staff members, who many of you have met, showed me their worth in the first few months of working together. I am so proud of the bond that they have already created and am excited to remain a President’s Circle member because of the impact I know they will bring. They have brought some exciting new changes to Chamber programming, a new look to our Quarterly Commerce magazine and have already built relationships with businesses and community members throughout Eatonton-Putnam County to better serve you and those visiting.

As a Chamber Board, we are also business leaders in the community that we all live, work, and play in. With that being said, we recognize that our effectiveness is not us telling you what you need, but rather you telling us, so please engage with the staff! The door is always open at the Chamber and we want to hear from you about what is important to your business and how we can help!

As I move forward in my final term as Chairman of the Board, I would like to thank the Eatonton-Putnam County business community for trusting me with this honor.

In addition, it has been a great joy to work alongside Roddie Anne Blackwell and learn from her as an influential businesswoman, but also be part of the Board who was able to hire an entirely new staff for the future of the Chamber. I have been so fortunate to serve on the Board of Directors for the last three years and look forward to the growth of the Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce!

Mckenzie Davenport Vice Chairman

Jason Green Treasurer

Sarah Peacock Dr. Jameelah Gater

Jesse McMillen Cynthia Wallace

Keith Hill Amy McElhenney

Tommy Jeffords Dr. Haley Lance

Justin Strickland

Maddie Atkinson Chairman of the Board Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce QUARTERLY COMMERCE / SPRING 2021

5

PRESIDENT’S UPDATE Let me just say, what a year! Beginning my journey as the Chamber President amidst a pandemic has been interesting, to say the least. However, I feel the extra set of challenges that have landed in my lap over the past few months are certainly strengthening our organization from the inside out. Within the first two months of my tenure, we’ve welcomed an entirely new staff family and as we continue to find our grooves in our respective new roles, we are also finding the balance among us as a group. I think I can say with confidence that we’re making a pretty stellar team. With that, although much of finding balance comes from internal effort, there is no doubt that we wouldn’t be as far as we are if it weren’t for the incredible support of our Board of Directors. A huge thank you to an awesome group of people!

Message From the President

Despite the surprises and changes that 2021 has brought us it hasn’t slowed the Chamber down for one minute.We have come into the year moving full-steam ahead, planning and executing our calendar of events assuming business as usual.We graduated our 26th class of Leadership Putnam on April 1st and they are well on their way to executing a phenomenal class project. The class of eighteen community leaders made facilitating my first class as President nearly a breeze. There were some alterations to the schedule that had to be made due to COVID restrictions, but we saw Eatonton-Putnam County come together to continue to support the program. Our community partners and volunteers shone brightly!

We are now looking forward to a highly anticipated Sweet Tee Off Golf Tournament on April 19th at Cuscowilla. We reached maximum capacity on players and a wait list is growing. I think as folks are able to see the light at the end of the tunnel, the desire to get outside, socialize and support each other is ever growing.After the golf tournament, we are moving into our 42nd Annual Awards Dinner. Having cancelled our 2020 Awards Dinner last year, we are itching to show our appreciation for our members. Our focus will be on saying thank you to those members who have been with us over the past 20+ years. In a time where face-to-face interaction has been so limited, we knew we needed to do something special for those who have seen the Chamber grow over the years, so we decided to say thank you with a one year membership bump for those 50+ members that have been so loyal. We want to be intentional in bringing this group together, along with our newer members, and enjoy a time of gratitude and fellowship for all of the hard work that goes into making our community so great!

All things considered, our Chamber is continuing to move forward, expand, grow and strengthen. Our team sees opportunity for the future of our organization and we are working hard to make sure the businesses in our community know they are supported. I am honored to be a part of this process. Thank you!

President Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce 6

SPRING 2021 / QUARTERLY COMMERCE

When Quality and Experience Matters Residential & Commercial • • • • •

New & Re-Roofs Metal Shakes Wood Shakes Leak Repairs Gutters

Proudly Serving the Lake Oconee Area Over 20 Years!

706-485-9125 | 116 Scott Oak Drive | Suite A | Eatonton Award Winning Local Florist

Gatewood consists of 390 students in K2-12th grade from six surrounding counties. We provide a nurturing, Christian education while instilling lifelong characteristics of faith, honor, truth, and loyalty. We have a 50-year foundation of academic excellence!

#WeAreGatewood #JustGettingStarted

706-484-0999 646 Old Phoenix Road Eatonton, GA 31024

706-485-8231 x1300

Proudly serving Putnam & Greene Counties

@gatewoodschool

www.DeerRunFlorist.com

Contact Director of Admissions Libby Rainey to schedule a tour: lrainey@gatewoodschool.com

Earn Petal Points for Every Dollar Spent

Though our loved ones might ascend to

Heaven, Hearts. they live on forever in our

LET BUG HOUSE PROTECT YOUR HOUSE Milledgeville - Gray - Lake Oconee

Go Green

• FREE Inspections • 24-Hr or Less Response Time • Financing Available • Locally Operated

(706) 453-0140

www.bughousepestcontrol.com WILDLIFE REMOVAL • CRAWL SPACE ENCAPSULATION MOLD REMEDIATION

at Exchange Bank of Lake Oconee!

E-Statements Mobile Banking Mobile Wallet and more!

Laura Poyner City Executive Vice President

706-454-2265 |www.exch.bank

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE It’s Spring! The flowers are blooming, the birds are chirping and the pollen is...

EVERYWHERE! Personally, I’m excited to get out of the house and get a little pollen on my shoes and network with friends and member businesses again. I want to sincerely thank all 150+ member businesses that have renewed their membership during the first quarter, as well as, welcoming six new member businesses!

Michael A. Payne Membership Director 21 Years

Piedmont Financial Partners, Inc. Purchasing Alliance Solutions, Inc. Putnam Jasper Support Services

22 Years

Cuscowilla Habitat for Humanity Putnam County Oconee Electric, Inc.

23 Years

Throughout this year, we are recognizing and celebrating our 20+ year members for their longstanding commitment to our organization. Since 1979, the EatontonPutnam Chamber of Commerce has served the Eatonton and Putnam business community by providing unparalleled support for our members and working tirelessly to strengthen our community. The business community is, at its core, the backbone of our organization and the driving force in making our region a thriving one. We acknowledge and appreciate that the foundation of our success is built upon you and your commitment to our mission. Simply put, our story is your story.

We are extremely grateful for your continued support and always value your voice!

21+ Year Members

35 Years

Smith Communications, Inc. W.C. Ralston & Son, Inc.

36 Years

Thomas L. Brown DDS

37 Years

30 Years

Charter Rock Eagle 4-H

Oconee Radio Group

38 Years

Deer Run Florist Lake Oconee Dentistry Tom & Sandra Rosseter

31 Years

Embry Farm Service

Eatonton Housing Authority

24 Years

32 Years

25 Years

Crowe Marine, Inc. Lake Oconee Rental

Central Georgia Technical College Gatewood School Georgia Power Company Lake Oconee Breeze Universal Forest Products Eatonton, LLC

David Giddens, C.P.A.

26 Years

33 Years

Blackwell Furniture Eatonton Medical & Surgical Eatonton Service League Fowler Flemister Concrete, Inc. Gary McElhenney

Bessie’s The Flower Shop

Georgia Department of Labor Putnam County Health Department

28 Years

Eatonton Cooperative Feed Company First Baptist Church

29 years

Better Business Bureau McDonald’s of Lake Oconee Sinclair Custom Award Designs

BlueStem Craig Massee Insurance Rice & Batchelor Real Estate Gro-Tec, Inc. Pizza Hut-Eatonton Reynolds Lake Oconee

34 Years

Putnam County Cooperative Extension

39 Years 41 Years

42 Years

Eatonton Kiwanis Club Farmers & Merchants Bank Holloway’s Ace Hardware Middle Georgia Timber, LLC Pilot Club Of Eatonton Putnam General Hospital The Insurance People The Peoples Bank Tri-County EMC QUARTERLY COMMERCE / SPRING 2021

9

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

Renewing Members First Quarter 2021 Renewals

a2b Fulfillment, Inc. ACS Affinity Pools American Pest Control Augusta University Health Beth’s Boarding and Grooming Better Business Bureau Bill & Jennie Sharp Blackwell Furniture Company Blacksheep Interiors Blasingame, Burch, Garrard, Ashley Bo Trawick-State Farm Bug House Pest Control Calvert Custom Homes, LLC Cement Technology Masonry Supply Central Georgia Technical College Century Bank & Trust Charter C&M Masonry Contractors Group Collins Auto Repair Cowles Clinic Craig-Massee Insurance Agency Crowe Marine Cuscowilla Cynthia Wallace-Algin Realty Dalton Carpet One David Giddens, CPA DMD Garage Doors & Outdoor Living Dreambuilt, LLC Dutton Construction, Inc. Earnest and Dixie Turk Eatonton Cooperative Feed Eatonton Elks Lodge #2549 Eatonton Health & Rehab Eatonton Housing Authority Eatonton Medical & Surgical Eatonton Presbyterian Church Eatonton-Putnam Historical Society Eatonton Service League Edward Jones-Teresa Doster Embry Farm Service EPWSA Erika Reade LTD. Evergreen Propane Exchange Bank 10

SPRING 2021 / QUARTERLY COMMERCE

Farmers & Merchants Bank FERST Readers First Baptist Church First Franklin Financial First United Methodist Church Fowler Flemister Concrete, Inc. Gary McElhenney Georgia College Early College Georgia Department of Labor Georgia Watersports, LLC Goodwill Gregory Bridge Company GRO-TEC Habitat for Humanity Putnam Harmony Pet Resort, LLC Holloway’s Ace Hardware Historic Piedmont Scenic Byway Houseman Pest Control Jackie Smith Joe’s Roofing LLC Juturna J.V. Dell, PC Kristine R. Moore Tarrer, LLC Lake Country Compounding & Wellness Lake Country Outfitters Lake Oconee Ace Hardware Lake Oconee Area Builders Association Lake Oconee Breeze Lake Oconee Dentistry Lake Oconee Lutheran Church Lake Oconee Presbyterian Church Lake Oconee Rental, Inc. Lake Oconee Tool and Equipment Rental Law Office of Russell W. Wall Lights of Oconee Magnolia Medical Group Manley Metalworks, LLC. Mansfield Cares, Inc. Marbleworks, Inc. Metro Water Filter Middle Georgia Consortium Middle Georgia Timber, LLC Oconee Cabinets Oconee Climate Control Oconee Communications Group Oconee Custom Signs Oconee Performing Arts Society P.C. Simonton Engineering PDI Piedmont Financial Partners Piggly Wiggly

Pilot Club of Eatonton Pinnacle Credit Union Pizza Hut-Eatonton Precision Approach, INC. Purchasing Alliance Solutions, INC. Putnam County Board of Commissioners Putnam County Charter School System Putnam County Health Department Putnam County Middle School Putnam General Hospital Putnam Jasper Support Services Rebekah D. Coker Reynolds Lake Oconee Rich Hardin Construction RF Designs, Inc. Rock Eagle 4-H Rock Eagle Technology Park Ron Taylor Custom Homes Rotary Club of Greene & Putnam Counties Rosee Oil Company, Inc. Sammons Construction ServPro Skyline Construction, Inc. Southeastern Portable Buildings Start to Finish Construction Steffen Thomas Museum Superior Heating & Air S.S. Rental Properties, LLC Tendercare Clinic TCH Watersports, INC. The Cutting Edge Glass & MIrror The Gailey Law Firm The Lodge on Lake Oconee The People’s Bank The Insurance People Tim Broyles-State Farm Tom & Sandra Rosseter Towable Tailgates Town & Country Outdoor Products Tri-County EMC Twin Bridges Landing Uncle Remus Museum Universal Forest Products University Cancer & Blood Center U.S. Breaker. Inc. W.C. Ralston & Son, Inc. Williams Funeral Home Wing Maxx Young-Jones Dental Center Zaxby’s

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

New Members

Please join us in welcoming our First Quarter 2021 New Members

Outdoor Options 995 MIlledgeville Road Eatonton, GA 31024 (478) 746-0001

H20 Adventures Rentals 411 Pea Ridge Road Eatonton, GA 31024 (706) 800-8420

Hinton Construction, LLC. 7955 Rock Eagle Road Monticello, GA 31064 (706) 818-8362

Mercer Medicine-Putnam County 117 Harmony Crossing, Suite 1 Eatonton, GA 31024 (762) 320-2100

American Legion Post 583 280 Martin Luther King Drive Eatonton, GA 31024 (706) 749-2077

Lake Country Movers (478) 796-0060

QUARTERLY COMMERCE / SPRING 2021 11

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS Georgia Chamber SMART Plan Today’s small businesses are searching for cost-saving health coverage options and the Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce is helping to address this need by offering a solution that can lead to more affordable rates and offer potential savings for members.

The Eatonton-Putnam Chamber has teamed up with the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield to administer the Georgia Chamber SMART Plan. This plan allows smaller employers to join together to share in the overall claims risk. By being a part of a larger, self-funded pool, employers have financial protection backed by Anthem. In addition to financial protection, this innovative alternative offers competitive rates, predictable-fixed monthly payments, flexibility to choose benefit plans and Anthem’s broad Open Access POS network and Essential RX. In addition to all of this, the SMART Plan also offers specialty products including dental, vision, life, optional life and disability plans that are offered at discounted rates to employers taking advantage of the Georgia SMART Plan.

Who is eligible for the Georgia SMART Plan?

The Georgia Chamber SMART Plan is available to small business employers with at least two employees enrolled on their medical plan and no more than 50 total employees. Eligible employers must also be Chamber members in good standing.

To learn more about the Georgia Chamber SMART plan and its many advantages, you need to know the status of your membership or you do not currently have a broker, please call the Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce at 706-4857701.You can also call Piedmont Financial Partners, 706-467-1300, to learn more about this program.

Meet the SMART Plan

A cost-saving health plan designed for businesses like yours

Discover unique solutions that help your employees, and your business, stay in good health with Anthem.

Find out more today. Ask your local Georgia Chamber of Commerce for a referral to a participating broker.

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Blue Cross Blue Shield Healthcare Plan of Georgia, Inc. Independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Anthem is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. 120936GAEENABS 10/20

12

SPRING 2021 / QUARTERLY COMMERCE

Drugs Don’t Work Did you know that as a Chamber Member, you are eligible to sign up to be a drug-free workplace, which will save your business 7.5% on Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

Drugs Don’t Work (DDW) is a program of The Council on Alcohol and Drugs, Inc. DDW in Georgia is a partnership program of The Georgia Chamber of Commerce, the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation, the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Office of Prevention Services and Programs, and local chambers of commerce, like the Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce. The Drugs Don’t Work program is the official drug-free workplace services provider of the state of Georgia as mandated

by Georgia Law (OCGA 34-9-410).

The nationally recognized workplace program helps businesses maintain healthy and productive workforces and receive a 7.5% discount on Workers Compensation Insurance.

If you would like additional information or need to know if your certification has expired, please reach out to Membership Director, Michael A. Payne, at membership@eatonton.com.

TOURISM UPDATE

Hey y’a ll... I ’m Lacey

I am the new Tourism, Marketing, and Special Events Coordinator, which is a long way of saying I market and advertise our area across the country. I officially began on Monday, February 22nd, but I also interned for this office last summer so I am familiar with the role and excited to be back in Eatonton.

One of the major things I am working on as part of my position as Special Events Coordinator is the 7th Annual Sweet Tee Off Golf Tournament. I was working in the office last year when it was canceled and we are so thrilled that we get to bring it back this year. My first few weeks on the job consisted of me speaking with local businesses who are either sponsoring or playing this year. This was a great opportunity for me to introduce myself and get to know stakeholders in the community while also getting our tournament planning underway. I am grateful that many of the businesses and players in the community are supportive of our Chamber events, especially this one because it is one of the first major events we are holding after the closures due to COVID-19. I am excited to get to meet more people from the area through this event.

The biggest part of my job is to answer the question “So what is there to do in Eatonton?” Whether it is from a visitor in our Welcome Center, an inquiry from someone over the phone, or even a new member of our community, I get to market our area to people from around the country. Usually, this includes mentioning downtown museums or attractions, our self-guided tours, and the lake area. Sometimes people have very specific interests in the area or want to stay in one location. This is typical of people who are staying at Lake Oconee or Sinclair or visitors coming simply to enjoy the literary history.

In all, I hope that soon I can advertise more attractions in our area because the market for it does exist.

14

SPRING 2021 / QUARTERLY COMMERCE

TOURISM UPDATE

During my first month on the job, I applied to be on the Main Street Eatonton Advisory Board, and on March 15, Eatonton City Council approved my application for a seat. As a part of this group, I will help the advancement of Downtown Eatonton in a variety of ways including planning events and marketing local businesses to not only our area but also across the southeast.

So what is there to do in Eatonton?

One of the other notable tasks I’ve worked on recently is installing the Eatonton and Putnam County display at the Georgia Visitor Center on I-20 in Augusta near the South Carolina border. Maggie and I curated a variety of art from local artisans that specifically highlighted attractions in our community. We were able to choose a variety of pieces from the Artisans Village Art Gallery in downtown Eatonton. The Georgia Writers Museum also loaned us a typewriter and a handful of artifacts related to local author, Joel Chandler Harris. The display will be up through April 30th so if you haven’t had a reason to drive through Augusta, now you do! I am already thinking about different items we can feature next time we have the chance to display our wonderful community.

I am very excited to continue to make plans in my position here at the Chamber.

I look forward to learning more about the area and connecting with the community. If anyone has ideas they would like to pitch or questions about anything I am working on, please feel free to call me at our office or email me anytime at tourism@eatonton.

QUARTERLY COMMERCE / SPRING 2021 15

TOURISM UPDATE Alice Walker Driving Tour Revisited

Road Map

A new Alice Walker Driving Tour brochure is at our new Welcome Center located at 108 West Marion Street in Downtown Eatonton Georgia.

The new version of the driving tour highlights additional areas in Putnam County as well as more information about Alice and her time spent in the community.

The 2 new areas of interest include The Pex Theatre and the Butler- Baker School. Alice attended the Butler Baker School for four years and graduated in 1961 as valedictorian of her class. The PEX Theatre in Downtown Eatonton hosted two limited attendance showings of The Color Purple in 1986.

Another area of interest is the Wards Chapel School Alice attended.

This was one of the 28 schools that African American students attended in Putnam County. These schools were consolidated in 1954 as a result of Brown v. Board of Education. Students then attended the Butler- Baker School. *The exact location and the timeline of the school are currently disputed.

We are excited to expand the Alice Walker Driving Tour to include additional stops in our county, it is important to highlight the work people have put into these areas.

16

SPRING 2021 / QUARTERLY COMMERCE

OCONEE SPRINGS PARK LAKE SINCLAIR

Specializing in all Types of Metals

Roll-Off Box Service Available We’ll drop off and pick up from your site for all your metal recycling needs. We also pick up junk cars!

Turn that cutter in to cash!

Call for more information.

127 Lower Harmony Road | Eatonton 706-485-8106

103 Willie Bailey St | Eatonton | 706.485.4494 www.bernardfamilyfuneralcare.com H. Bernard Holston Sr. | Owner

The Madison Chapel 1086 Ward Rd. | Madison 706.438.3210

Proud supporters of our local Chamber!

• MARINA • CABINS • CAMPGROUND • STORE • WATERPARK • PROPANE FILLING STATION

Let’s Make Some Memories!

109 SOUTH SPRING ROAD S.E. • EATONTON, GA 31024 706-485-8423

We Support Putnam Chamber!

RUSSELL W. WALL | ATTORNEY AT LAW 122 North Main St. Bte B. Greensboro, GA Office: 706-453-0089 Fax: 706-453-0094 Email: russell@rwwlaw.com

MEMBER NEWS

Tri-County EMC’s $47 Million Broadband Investment in Middle GA Efforts to provide needed high-speed internet service to Georgians took a step forward when Gov. Brian Kemp and PSC Commissioner Tim Echols assisted Tri-County EMC in making an important announcement. Governor Kemp announced the formation of a new broadband provider in Middle Georgia, Tri-CoGo, which will provide high-speed internet service to 22,000 homes and businesses in eight counties including Baldwin, Bibb, Jasper, Jones, Morgan, Putnam, Twiggs and Wilkinson.

“Today’s broadband announcement by Tri-County EMC is another exciting step toward securing greater opportunities for hardworking Georgians through expanded internet access,” said Gov. Kemp. “Broadband access is critical to economic growth, better educational outcomes, and access to quality healthcare. Our EMCs are critical partners in that fight, and thanks to the passage and signing of Senate Bill 2 in 2019, they are empowered to work with the communities they serve on projects like this that lessen the digital divide in rural Georgia. I’m honored to be part of this announcement and will continue working with leaders across our state to increase broadband access and ensure a brighter future for all Georgians – no matter their zip code.”

The project will include a capital investment of more than $47 million by Tri-County EMC to build a fiber network that will provide enhanced reliability and operational services for its electric customers while providing excess fiber capacity that will be leased to the cooperative’s broadband affiliate, Tri-CoGo, which will provide the broadband service.

Tri-County EMC is constructing the network with the assistance of Conexon, a rural fiber engineering consultant.

Conexon works exclusively with electric cooperatives and is considered one of the pioneers in the electric cooperative broadband movement. Fiber construction is expected to begin by May 2021 and service to service to the first zone of customers will begin by late summer. Construction of the fiber network will be complete in two years, and all Tri-County EMC members should have access to internet services with Tri-CoGo within four years, as service drops are constructed. Available services will include 100 Mbps, Gigabit and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephone service for residential and commercial customers.

“Today is truly an exciting day for our cooperative,” said TriCounty EMC CEO Ray Grinberg. “For our members and our community, today marks the beginning of a digital revolution.

Regardless of location across our service territory, every member of Tri-County EMC will soon be able to receive high-speed internet.”

“I firmly believe that high speed internet will be a catalyst for economic development, just like rural electrification,” commented Greg Mullis, Chief Operating Officer for TriCoGo. “Access to one hundred percent fiber, high-speed internet for every member of Tri-County EMC may certainly have the largest impact on business development and quality of life since we brought electricity to rural middle-Georgia in 1939.”

“Accessing high-speed broadband is incredibly important for rural businesses and families - especially in the COVID era,” said PSC Commissioner Tim Echols. “As a utility regulator and father of seven, I’ve tried to make it easier for EMCs to engage and play a role in expanding broadband and reaching unserved and underserved areas.”

18

SPRING 2021 / QUARTERLY COMMERCE

The subsidiary was awarded approximately $1.1 million in the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF) Phase 1 Auction in late 2020 to provide gigabit service to 2,923 unserved locations within the cooperative service area.

Tri-County EMC members interested in internet or phone service are encouraged to visit the newly created subsidiary’s website at connect.tri-cogo.com. Members can search by address to get detailed information about buildout schedules, simple and competitive pricing plans and pre-register for service.

MEMBER NEWS

BlueStem Brands Doubles Down in Putnam

About BlueStem Brands BLST Operating Company, LLC is a privately held multi-brand, online retailer serving a broad base of customers throughout the United States. The company, which operates its portfolio under Bluestem Brands, offers a broad selection of name brand and private-label general merchandise through seven retail brands: Appleseed’s, Blair, Draper’s & Damon’s, Fingerhut, Gettinging, and Haband. For more information, please visit www.bluestem.com.

On January 13, 2021, Governor Brian P. Kemp announced that Bluestem Brands, a business operating multiple national e-commerce retail brands, will expand their distribution center in Putnam County, more than doubling their presence in the state and delivering over 130 full-time jobs to Eatonton.

“Bluestem’s decision to substantially expand their presence in Georgia is yet another example of how the state’s strong logistics infrastructure and workforce training programs continue to support e-commerce and create jobs and opportunities for hardworking Georgians,” said Governor Kemp. “I thank Bluestem for their job-creating investment, and I appreciate the work of our world-class economic development team to support our existing industries and helping them grow right here in the Peach State.”

Headquartered in Minneapolis, Bluestem Brands is a multi-brand portfolio of e-commerce companies that serve a broad range of customers throughout the U.S. The company’s subsidiaries include Appleseed’s, Blair, Draper’s & Damon’s, Fingerhut, Gettington, and Haband, among others. Its Eatonton facility has traditionally served the Haband brand, under the Orchard Brands portfolio, which was acquired by Bluestem Group Inc. in 2015. With this expansion, the Eatonton facility will also serve Bluestem’s Appleseed’s, Blair, Draper’s & Damon’s, Fingerhut, and Gettington labels.

“These are exciting times for Bluestem Brands as we continue our history of providing high-quality apparel at competitive prices, and it is exciting that we will soon be fulfilling our orders through expanding our presence in Eatonton,” said Mark Williams, president of Bluestem’s Orchard Brands.

Bluestem will invest $1 million in expanding their current Eatonton distribution center located at 148 Industrial Boulevard. The company additionally plans to create nearly 200 seasonal and part-time positions. Individuals interested in warehousing and distribution careers with Bluestem are encouraged to regularly check Indeed.com for job opportunities with the company.

“On behalf of the Putnam Board of Commissioners, I want to thank Bluestem Brands for their support to the community over the years,” said Putnam County Commission Chair Billy Webster. “I also want to thank the current Haband Eatonton distribution center family members for everything they do for Bluestem Brands at the Eatonton facility. This expansion would not have happened without their history of dedication and hard work. The commissioners and staff stand ready to support this vital and important business expansion.”

Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) Senior Project Manager Candice Scott represented the Global Commerce division on this project in partnership with the Putnam County Development Authority, the Georgia Department of Labor, Central Georgia Technical College, and Georgia Quick Start.

QUARTERLY COMMERCE / SPRING 2021 19

MEMBER NEWS

The Eatonton Elks #2549 Continue Support of the Community through Pandemic Beginning in April 2020, the Eatonton Elks Lodge-2549 obtained grants from their national organization, The Grand Lodge, and dispersed those to different organizations around the community.

The first grant was the Gratitude Grant, $2,500. The Elks presented the Eatonton Service League and Putnam Christian Outreach Inc each with checks for $1,000 and purchased lunch twice for the employees of Putnam General Hospital.

The second grant was the Freedom Grant, $2,000. The Elks purchased the supplies to create Christmas bags for the 170 residents of the Georgia War Veterans Home and the 70 residents of Eatonton Health & Rehabilitation. They also provided employees at both places with boxes of snacks and bags of fruit.

The fourth grant was the Spotlight Grant, $2,000. The Elks presented the Circle of Love Center with a check for $2,000.

To date, The Eatonton Elks-2549 has distributed $10,000 to the community and we couldn’t be more proud to call this organization a member! If you know an Elk or see an Elk, please thank them for their hard work and contribution to our community over this past year!

The third grant was the Beacon Grant, $3,500. The Elks presented the Ferst Readers of Putnam County Putnam Christian Outreach Inc. and Jasper County Community Food Bank with checks for $1,175 each.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors

Lalore Café, a quaint, bright café located at 113 Harmony Crossing in Eatonton, Georgia, struggles to remain open amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic. Husband and wife owners Manuel Sanchez and Lorena Bruzzone came to the United States in 2016, worked hard, and poured the life savings into opening their dream eatery. Lalore Café opened in June of 2018, serving a variety of specialty food and drink. They are well known for their excellent desserts and coffees.

Unfortunately, like many small businesses, the COVID-19 pandemic has taken its toll on the couple and their business, and they are struggling to make ends meet. In the spirit of community, Hargray and other individuals and businesses have contributed to help Manny and Lorena keep their dream alive and save Lalore Café.

Hargray Area Manager, Kevin Hartrich, commented, “Offering support to Lake Country Small Businesses like Lalore Café is one of the ways Hargray fulfills its purpose of empowering people and communities to connect and thrive. The community prospers when we all work together.”

20

SPRING 2021 / QUARTERLY COMMERCE

S N A E M Y T I G N N I U H M T M Y CO EVER Why having State Farm in your community matters. In this day and age of fast food, instant messaging, smartphones, digital technology, instant online services, etc. we enjoy having everything at our fingertips, even our insurance agent.

However, when tragedy strikes, i.e. your child is in an accident, your house catches fires, or a loved one passes none of these things will bring much comfort. We, at Tim Broyles State Farm, want to be there when life gets tough. We offer real people who can sit face to face with you and help work through the tragedy. We will meet you where you are and do our best to assist in the recovery process.

Tim Broyles State Farm, as well as State Farm in general, wishes to make a difference in the lives of our customers and our communities. We have brick and mortar buildings for a reason….so we can permeate our communities with our “good neighbor” values. We want to participate in community events and give back wherever we can. Check out State Farm Neighborhood of Good at https://neighborhoodofgood.statefarm.com/why/index.shtml where people can volunteer for causes that matter in their communities. This is what we are about….doing good. Tim Broyles State Farm desires to have relationships with customers that go far beyond an occasional conversation on the phone. We want to meet your fiancé or your new spouse. We desire to celebrate your new home and be sure it is protected. We would love to get to know your children and offer assistance as they become teenagers and can get behind the wheel.

Let us help ensure that college money will be available. Bring that new grandbaby to see us and let us be certain that she and her parents are protected. Finally, let us honor you when you retire and ensure that you are prepared and can truly relax and enjoy this new chapter in life. Tim Broyles State Farm wants to celebrate all the good in life with you.

We want to know your dreams and do all we can to help you attain and protect those dreams.

Celebrating and dreaming is the fun part; however, as insurance agents, we also have an obligation to have those hard conversations. The conversations no one wants to think about. Conversations about loss. Not just the loss of life, but also loss of a job, loss of health, loss of a home or an auto, loss of wages, etc. The three major risks that anyone will face are premature death, unprotected liability, and loss of income. It is our job to help protect people’s income and assets from bad things so that they will have income and assets for good things. The team at Tim Broyles State Farm wants to prepare you for whatever may come. We want to be there to help make life go right even when it seems all wrong. We want to have those conversations with you, face to face, and to encourage you to take steps to be equipped so once the storm passes you can move forward. It is not our desire to “sell” you anything, we want to get to know you, answer your questions, hear your dreams and furnish you with the information you need to determine how best to protect you, your family, and your assets.

T Broyles Ins and Fin Svcs Inc Tim Broyles RICP, Agent 121 N Jefferson Avenue Eatonton, GA 31024 Bus: 706-485-8708

CHAMBER NEWS

Anchors Marina The Lake Country’s Newest Marina 328 days ago, Lauren and Josh Sprayberry and their team broke ground on what is now the Lake Country’s newest marina, Anchors Marina. On Thursday, April 11th, they cut the ribbon on their complex and welcomed the community to Masters Dockside, an event that coincided with the Masters Golf Tournament in Augusta.

Anchors Marina and their sponsors; BankSouth- Fowler Team, Brock Company Creative, Crowe Marine, Landmark Construction & Development, Kim & Lin Logan Real Estate, RTS Lake Oconee, and Watersports Central hosted a wonderful outdoor evening event overlooking Lake Oconee.

This event served as the unofficial start of Spring and Summer programming for both the Greene County Chamber of Commerce and the Eatonton- Putnam Chamber of Commerce.

Photos Courtesy of Brock Company Creative, LLC.

“We are excited to have local business owners continue to come to our community. Lauren and Josh are becoming part of Eatonton-Putnam County and the investment they are showing us will be part of our growth moving forward.”

Maggie Milner, President Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce

22

SPRING 2021 / QUARTERLY COMMERCE

CHAMBER NEWS

Welcome to Putnam County, Mercer Medicine!

Mercer Medicine held a ribbon-cutting for the launch of its fourth rural primary care clinic on Friday, February 26th at its new Putnam County clinic.

Mercer Medicine is the primary care practice and the division of the faculty practice of Mercer University School of Medicine (MUSM), with more than 30 primary care and specialty providers in five locations.

“Providing quality, primary care to the citizens of rural Georgia is the cornerstone of Mercer University School of Medicine and Mercer Medicine’s mission. We are looking forward to joining the health care professionals already in the area to improve access to primary care in Putnam County and the communities around it,” said Jean Sumner, M.D., dean of MUSM. “We are delighted to have Dr. Diana Homeier join the Mercer Medicine team. She is an outstanding physician who has specialized training and certification in geriatrics.”

Mercer Medicine Putnam County will bolster local health care providers by offering high-quality primary care in a convenient, friendly atmosphere. Dr. Homeier and staff offer primary care, geriatric care, mental health counseling, EKG, lab, immunizations and specialist visits via telehealth MondayFriday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Homeier and her husband recently relocated to Eatonton and are looking forward to being active members of the local community.

“I am very pleased to have the opportunity to contribute to this community that has welcomed us so warmly. I am delighted to join the Mercer family and support its mission of providing quality health care to all Georgians,” said Dr. Homeier.

Mercer Medicine operates a multi-specialty medical complex in downtown Macon in the 43,000-square-foot facility that previously was home to the Georgia Music Hall of Fame.

In July 2018, Mercer Medicine expanded outside of Macon by opening a rural clinic in Plains at the request of former U.S. President and Mercer Life Trustee Jimmy Carter. At the dedication ceremony for the clinic, Mercer President William D. Underwood said Mercer Medicine Plains “represents part of a broad-ranging initiative by the University to transform access to health care in this state” and would serve as a model for additional rural health clinics around the state.

Building off of that successful launch and in order to continue delivering on its commitment to meet the health care needs of rural Georgians, Mercer opened rural health clinics in Peach County in October 2019 and Clay County in November 2020 with plans underway for a future clinic in Harris County.

Dr. Homeier earned her medical degree from the University of Southern California School of Medicine with highest distinction and completed a family medicine residency at David Grant Air Force Medical Center where she served as chief resident. In 2000, she completed a fellowship in geriatric medicine at Oregon Health Sciences University in Portland.

She is board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine with an added qualification in geriatrics.Dr.

QUARTERLY COMMERCE / SPRING 2021 23

CHAMBER NEWS

Leadership Putnam 2021 On April 1st, the Chamber graduated its 26th Leadership Putnam Class. This year there were 18 graduates from all areas of the community with very different backgrounds, ideas and passions that went through the program.

leadership abilities and builds on their strongest, most relevant strengths. It has been amazing to see some of the ‘ah-ha’ moments when they discover the reasoning behind why they do the things they do, or think the way they think.

It is always an interesting process, to watch the participants learn about their community, themselves as individuals and as leaders. This year’s class is no different. Many of their concerns and ideas relate to their age, what season of life they are in, their economic background and what is currently happening in society. This was an active and lively group full of informative and passionate individuals. They have all emerged as strong leaders and the entire group has become a family of their own.

Due to COVID-19, the traditional Leadership Putnam schedule was altered to accommodate social distancing requirements. Many host member businesses and some traditional programming had to be scrapped altogether.

Regardless of any changes in the schedule, the participants still received comprehensive coursework that educated and informed about our community. We are very thankful to everyone that helped us maintain a semblance of normalcy for the leadership program this year.

This is the fourth Leadership Class that has been through the Clifton Strengths 34 Strong Assessment. This individualized process helps to discover natural strengths in their

To date, the Chamber has graduated 569 Leadership Putnam participants and will begin searching for 2022 Leadership Putnam participants this fall!

Our leadership group has tweaked the fine art of combining hard work with fun and laughter. As senior member of our group, I have often thought of this quote by one of my favorite children’s book authors, A.A. Milne…”Tis the privilege of friendship to talk nonsense and have her nonsense respected.” My heart is full of gratitude to have these new friends that have become my family. - Pam Atkinson, Retired Educator

This class has helped me become a stronger leader in my professional life, as well as personal.

It has helped me establish trust and communicate with different members of my community. I LOVED this experience! - Maria Baltazar, Lender, Farmers & Merchants Bank

Leadership has taught me more about myself than I thought it would. I have accepted and acknowledge all of the personalities that I was not aware of that plays a huge factor in my everyday life. - Reeshemah Ellison, Accounts Payable, City of Eatonton

Leadership 2021 began as a group of people that quickly gelled as a TEAM. As the class comes to an end, the result is a network of friendships that will last a lifetime. -Heidi King, Realtor, Wallace & King

Being new to the area, I was not familiar with Eatonton-Putnam County before Leadership.

I now know firsthand the quality of life, and even more so, the quality of the people here.

Simply put, it’s been an honor.

- Dave Zimmerman, Attorney, J.V. Dell, P.C. Attorneys at Law

I was pleasantly surprised at how much fun I had in Leadership Putnam. I really enjoyed meeting new friends and learning more about our great community. - Libby Copelan, Orthodontic Assistant, Sanchez & Craig Orthodontics 24

SPRING 2021 / QUARTERLY COMMERCE

I have learned a lot of things and met some really special people. I am so thankful to be a part of something so valuable and I’m hoping that this was only the beginning! - Kanesha Lowe, Parapro, Putnam County BOE

CHAMBER NEWS I love my hometown and I love the people even more! I absolutely enjoyed everyone in my leadership class: so much talent and so many ideas! I am excited about Putnam’s possibilities! - Tracy Stickley, Director of Development, Gatewood Schools

This leadership class has been nothing short of amazing. To be able to learn from and grow with such a great group of people, is everything that I ever imagined this class would be. - DJ Waller,Tourism Coordinator, City of Covington

I knew I would have the best understanding of our community and its culture if I went through the Leadership Program offered by the Chamber.

It has far exceeded my expectations and I have happily connected with a fantastic group of leaders who, without a doubt, I will continue to work with for years to come. - Lisa Tubbs, Executive Director, Putnam General Hospital

Leadership Putnam is about building relationships and a devotion for love of community. It is getting to know people and their stories...its loving people for who they are, complementing each other’s strengths, and being better because we are together... ...and it is knowing that everything in this community is somehow related to Pearidge Road. - Christina Hinz, CTAE Director, Putnam County BOE

Leadership Putnam is a great introduction to how our county operates and provided a wonderful opportunity to meet new friends. - Melissa Swindell, Executive Director, Georgia Writers Museum

If we want to move forward successfully as a community we have to set goals and work to reach those goals. We cannot set back and wait on someone else to take us there.

- Tommy McClain, Fire Chief, Putnam County

Putnam Leadership 2021 was nothing short of amazing. I learned valuable knowledge on what makes me a leader in my community and how to continue to develop my strengths. I can truly say I’ve gained lasting connections with some amazing individuals! - Shazett Bullard, Chief Deputy Clerk, Putnam County Clerk’s Office

I am honored to have been a part of the 2021 Putnam Leadership Class. As a result of this class I better understand my personal leadership style and abilities. I’ve been able to identify my personal strengths and weaknesses as a leader and prioritize best strategies for becoming a better leader and advocate for my community.

- Christel Nelson, Headstart Program Director, Putnam County BOE

As I look back on my experience with the Leadership Putnam a few things stand out that have made a great impact on me. First and foremost is the preparation and qualifications of the chamber team and the presenters that were put before us. It was not only very informative about the community but the professional development that I gained out of this was very beneficial and something that I could take into my everyday activities. Another take away is the professional and personal relationships that were built with not only the team but with Maggie and Mike as well. I feel that these working relationships have rounded me out and will help grow the community as well as future leadership classes. Thanks for creating an experience that has truly made an impact on me! - John Wojtas, President, Paxis Group

Let us appreciate family and friends, because our time together is very short.

- Lisa Wooten, CSR, FMB

Leaders create more leaders.

- Brad Murphey, EMS Director, Putnam County

QUARTERLY COMMERCE / SPRING 2021 25

CHAMBER NEWS

Magnolia Medical Group offers an integrated approach to health and wellness. Our doctors and staff work together to know our patients and their health needs and goals. We customize our patient's care plans utilizing several modes of treatment

Medical Services Offered -Trigger Point Therapy -Medical Weight Loss -IV Vitamin Infusions -Regenerative Cell Therapy -Hair PRP Treatments -Joint and Sports Injuries Chiropractic Care -Arthritis/Osteoarthritis -Neck Pain -Sciatic Pain -Chronic Pain

Justin Lance, DC

Haley Lance, DC

Audrey Crumbley, MD

WE GET CREATIVE SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO offering full-service marketing to the lake country

Nicole Mauney, NP-C

Real Estate Photography Logos Videos

Social Media Management Portraits Websites

BrockCompanyCreative.com | Jarrod@BrockCompanyCreative.com

946 Harmony Road Eatonton, GA 31024 706-991-5320 magnoliamedicalgroup.com Like and follow our Facebook page for updates, health tips and contests!

26

SPRING 2021 / QUARTERLY COMMERCE

in TED the

R

COMMUNITY Proud to be Serving and Caring for Your Family’s Smiles

FAMILY DENTISTRY

706.485.9031

104 N. LAFAYETTE STREET • EAToNToN www.DrMeiganMiller.com

Serving the lake area for over 60 years Enjoy Georgia’s lakes for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Georgia Power manages approximately 60,000 surface acres of water across the state, which includes 17 lakes, all associated with hydroelectric projects. Our mission is to preserve the value of our lands and lakes for the protection of the environment, as well as the public good. Our lakes and parks offer boating, fishing, swimming, hiking trails, picnic areas and campgrounds. It’s clean, renewable and fun, so come on out and enjoy our great outdoors!

Visit georgiapowerlakes.com to learn more.

©2019 Georgia Power Company. All rights reserved.

BENNINGTON | STARCRAFT CHAPARRAL | ROBALO KAWASAKI

706-485-9600

WWW.CROWEMARINE.COM 1010 LAKE OCONEE PARKWAY EATONTON, GA

CHAMBER EVENTS

22nd Annual Taste of Eatonton October 2nd

The Taste of Eatonton began in the Fall of 1999 as a networking event for Chamber businesses. The first Taste was held in the parking lot at the Bledsoe – Green House on West Sumter Street in downtown Eatonton and included 4 vendors and 75 attendees. Over the years the location had changed, the weather was a challenge, as well as the day of the week it had been chosen to take place, but it managed to evolve into the secondlargest Tourism fundraiser of the Chamber of Commerce drawing people from all over Georgia.

Now, the Taste is held every first Monday in October allowing fewer weather interruptions and giving people in our community something to look forward to on a Monday night! So, be our guest at the Taste of Eatonton Monday, October 2 at 6:30 pm and let a professional chef (or 20) take over dinner. Indulge in bites of new and signature dishes while celebrating the culinary expertise of the community at the 2021 Taste of Eatonton at the Plaza Arts Center in Eatonton, Georgia.

The Taste of Eatonton features booths for more than 20 different restaurants from Eatonton, Milledgeville, Greensboro, and Madison. The very best of the best gather to showcase their skills and create delectable dishes for attendees to enjoy. Entire families can sample quality food and potentially find a new favorite dining option. Eventgoers will also have to opportunity to voice their opinion by voting “Best Savory,” “Best Sweet” and “Best Presentation.” The friendly competition is fun for everyone, with winners announced at the end of the night.

The Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce also hosts a silent auction at the event that is filled with fabulous deals from all over Georgia’s Lake Country, ranging from dinner deals to spa treatments and vacations. To add to the festivities, the Chamber will have live music again this year. Don’t forget the famous bottomless wine glass will be available for $15 per person!

Enjoy an outstanding event and support one of the best and most long-standing traditions in Eatonton. Make room in your calendar and your stomach for the 2021 Taste of Eatonton!

For more information, call the Chamber at 706-485-7701, visit www. tasteofeatonton.com, or find us on Facebook!

28

SPRING 2021 / QUARTERLY COMMERCE

CHAMBER EVENTS

The Eatonton Putnam Chamber of Commerce

nd

Annual Dinner & Awards Reception Rock Eagle Senior Pavilion may 3, 2021

Please RSVP by April 28, 2021 706-485-7701 membership@eatonton.com

QUARTERLY COMMERCE / SPRING 2021 29

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Career, Technology, & Agricultural Education Director for Putnam County Charter School System Meet Christina Hinz

• •

Provide experiences for students that will prepare them for workplace success.

Provide educational experiences of superior quality and value for students that drive economic prosperity for all.

A little about me…

New to the community as of August 2020

Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) provides all Georgia students with the opportunity to select at least three sequenced electives in a career pathway, along with recommended academic course work, to prepare them to continue their education at any level or to enter the world of work.

Career pathways are state-approved career enhancement programs defined as a coherent, articulated sequence of rigorous academic and career related courses. They usually commence in the 9th grade, following middle school career related education experiences, and lead to college credit opportunities, opportunities to earn diploma seals, and/or an opportunity to earn an industry-recognized certificate or licensure.

Implementation of career pathways is a collaborative effort between the local system, the Technical College System of Georgia, and the University System of Georgia. Secondary pathways empower all students with opportunities to learn in-demand skills, attain credits toward a valuable postsecondary credential, gain knowledge and experiences related to the workplace, and jumpstart their journey to a successful future while they are still in high school.

Goals for CTAE in Putnam County include: •

30

Increase partnerships with local business, industry, and economic development, to educate our future workforce for career opportunities.

SPRING 2021 / QUARTERLY COMMERCE

Education: Undergrad: Mercer University Alumni (Bachelor of Science in Social Science), Troy University graduate (Master of Education); Columbus State University graduate (Educational Specialist in Leadership) Teaching certification held in educational leadership, technical education, early childhood education, and special education.

Previous experience: Coming to Putnam from Henry County Schools where I was employed since 2007 as their Career, Technology, & Agricultural Supervisor and Youth Apprenticeship Coordinator. Prior experiences include a career in law enforcement in Clayton County, Georgia and a career with Southern Crescent Technical College as the Program Coordinator for Criminal Justice.

Family: Married to my high school sweetheart, Cameron Hinz, a physical education teacher and coach with Henry County Schools. We have three children. Cashton 11, Corayln 9, Caitlee 4. In our free time, we enjoy time with our family outdoors, including camping, attending community events, going to the beach, hiking, and attending sporting events.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Meet Pat Topping

Interim Economic Development Director Putnam Development Authority

My name is Pat Topping. I have been your Interim Economic Development Director since June 2020. I have been in the economic development and Chamber industry for 30 years, all in Georgia. I have led chamber and economic development teams in Macon, Milledgeville, and Forsyth County in North Georgia. I led the Macon Economic Development Commission from 1999 until 2018. Since then I have been consulting with communities in middle Georgia.

What is the PDA? The Putnam Development Authority (PDA) is a constitutional authority whose purpose is to develop, promote and expand for the public good and general welfare, industry and trade within Putnam County, Georgia. We are funded primarily by the Putnam County Commission, as well as land sales and bond fees.

What do we do?

Economic Development is a Team Sport. We work with many local, state, regional and national organizations to accomplish our mission – Eatonton/Putnam Chamber, Central Georgia Technical College (CGTC), Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), Georgia Department of Labor (GA DOL) and our utility partners, Georgia Power, Georgia EMC, and Electric Utilities of Georgia. among others.

Two of our focuses are Existing Business/Industry Retention and New Business/industry Recruitment. 60 – 80% of new jobs and investment in a community can come from existing business/industry. The PDA has worked with most of our business/industry in Putnam County to encourage and assist with expansion and growth plans. Our assistance can include workforce development, bond financing, tax incentives, and infrastructure improvements.

PDA recently assisted Haband/Bluestem Brands with their expansion that doubled their current employment and invested over $1 million in new equipment. Bluestem Brands will add 130 new full-time employees and over 200 part time and seasonal team members. PDA coordinated with our partners GDEcD, GA DOL, Georgia QuickStart, and CGTC to hold a Job Fair to recruit the first wave of new team members.

PDA also worked with Interfor on their recent mill equipment upgrade and expansion. Interfor, the largest wood products manufacturer in Georgia will invest up to $100 million in the project and increase their workforce in key areas. Putnam voters supported the project with SPLOST funds to make crucial infrastructure improvements at the mill.

The PDA also works to recruit new businesses to Putnam County.

We partner with our partners at the GDEcD and our utility teams to market to and recruit new businesses/industries to the community. The Economic Development Team also includes Norfolk Southern RR, developers, state, and regional banks; national, regional, state, and local real estate brokers, and others. Projects include Aalto Scientific and Audit MicroControls. PDA has developed the 121-acre site in the South Industrial Park to attract new business/industry.

We have used SPLOST funds and state grants to develop the park and install infrastructure.

Georgia as well as most states have a site certification process. Georgia’s is GRAD (Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development). The GRAD Program offers 60+ industrial certified sites that are ready for fast-track construction projects through advance due diligence. To qualify for GRAD status, available sites must meet the program’s due diligence standards, be reviewed by a third party, and earn the final approval of a board of advisors comprised of public and private sector economic development professionals.

For additional information www.putnamdevelopmentauthority.com ptopping@putnamdevelopmentauthority.com 478 320-9530

QUARTERLY COMMERCE / SPRING 2021 31