YLN Walton Living by Fox Press

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Get Your Grill On! WHAT GOES TOGETHER BETTER THAN SUMMETIME AND BBQ?

Community Leader

To Shane Short, Walton County is serious business

The Premier Walton County Magazine

Walton Living Magazine

Walton Living Magazine 51

Table of

CONTENTS

8 - A Place to Play A time to get your workout on at Walton County’s YMCA

50 - Blue Light Special Take a look behind the scenes with members of the Georgia State Patrol

14 - Serious Business When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, these local businesses blossomed

56 - Black History The history of AfricanAmericans in Walton County is as old as the county itself

22 - Business Man Shane Short makes it his business to attract companies to Walton

62 - Learning to Cope Education in times of COVID-19 took some time to learn

32 - Steak on the grill Summertime means it’s time to fire up the grill and cook some BBQ

70 - Two Centuries Old The County Seat of Walton County is celebrating 200 years

40 - Spotlight on SC Social Circle’s history is being redefined with a growing downtown

58 - Working Hard The county is quickly becoming a place where industry thrives

56 On the Cover: Photo by Darrell Everidge

Walton Living Magazine

From the

PUBLISHERS PUBLISHERS Melanie Ann Jackson Sharon Swanepoel EDITOR Sharon Swanepoel DESIGNERS Brian Arrington Robert McLaughlin

elcome to the Spring Summer 2021 issue of Walton Living Magazine. After the year that was 2020, we are happy to be able to greet the new season in such a different way. Last year was challenging for most of us, but things now appear to be going in the right direction. In this issue we are highlighting how schools in Walton County took COVID-19 in their stride, bringing the best in education to our youth despite the challenges - and a couple of small businesses found that the pandemic actually brought with it some unexpected opportunities. We put the spotlight on the City of Social Circle, highlight Walton County’s proud black history, examine the state of the county’s manufacturing industry and you can read about Shane Short of Walton County’s Development Authority. He is this issue’s community leader. With 2021 being the City of Monroe’s Bicentennial, we give a brief glimpse into what you can expect from our next issue where we celebrate the city’s 200-year history with a special section, So grab a copy of the magazine, relax and maybe fire up the grill - you can read about that in this issue too - and much more! As always, we thank our advertisers, our contributors, writers, photographers, designers and of course our readers - all of whom make this magazine possible. We hope you enjoy reading this issue - and we’ll see you again in the fall.

Melanie Ann and Sharon Melanie Ann and Sharon, Publishers

6 Walton Living Magazine

PHOTOGRAPHERS Christy Breedlove Darrell Everidge Foothills Charter School Melanie Ann Jackson John Kracht Monroe Country Day School The Monroe Museum Social Circle City Schools Sharon Swanepoel Walton County School District Walton County Development Authority CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Christy Breedlove Melanie Ann Jackson Robbie Schwartz Sharon Swanepoel Carol Townsend ADVERTISING SALES Melanie Ann Jackson Walton Living Magazine published by Your Local News P O Box 128 Monroe, GA 30655

Member of the Walton County Chamber of Commerce

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Walton Living Magazine

Long Time Coming

Walton County YMCA is on track for a late 2022 opening date

By Sharon Swanepoel

YMCA for the Walton County community has long been an aspiration for the area. In fact, even before the recession of 2008 there were plans to build a YMCA in Monroe. But the downturn in the economy put a spoke in that wheel and held it off for more than a decade. The good news, however, is that is in the past and the project is now moving forward. A new sign has gone up on the 38-acre property on the connector between Charlotte Rowell Blvd and Double Springs Church Road that was donated by the Rowell family and funding for the project is

well on its way. According to Jeff Neufeld, vice president of First Community Development in charge of raising the funds for the project, it is looking good for a late 2022 opening date. “The plan is to get shovels into the ground by January 2022,” Neufeld said. “This is the most exciting development that has come to Monroe in my lifetime.” A fairly significant amount of the funding has already been pledged. Although there is more funding needed, the good news is that the funding is already

there for the swimming pool, something that local residents have had on their wish list for a long time. Ben Garrett, executive director of Walton County Health Care Foundation and co-chair of the Walton County YMCA Campaign Leadership Council, has pledged the funding for the pool from the Walton County Health Care Foundation. He did so after visiting the YMCA in Winder and seeing the health benefits, as well as the financial benefits, that go along with a YMCA with a pool. With six high schools in the area with swim teams, the potential is not only to have a pool for swimmers to train, but there also is the opportunity to host swim meets which will bring revenue to the YMCA as well as to the community. Retired Walton County School District superintendent Gary Hobbs, who co-chairs the Walton County YMCA Campaign Leadership Council, and other members of the YMCA Leadership Council have been giving updates to the cities to solicit their support and give the progress to date. Of the $15 million required, more than $6 million has already been raised. They are, however, hoping to raise up to $20 million to have money in the bank to help fund scholarships for several years for those in the community who may not be in a financial position to pay for membership. They hope to form a partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of Walton County to provide swim lessons for their children as well. “I have a soft spot in my heart for kids, especially low income kids. We have almost 100,000 people in Walton County and no place for kids to learn to swim. The Boys and Girls Club has no facility. The children of Walton County need to have a place to learn to swim,” Hobbs said. The plan is for every child in Walton County to have a place to learn how to swim. “Seniors too, I also think about them perhaps because I am one of them. Many have lost a spouse. I see them drinking coffee or in the workout area,” Hobbs said, adding he had taken a tour of the YMCA in Winder and was amazed at the services it provides to the community. “I encourage anybody to go to Winder. I never had any idea that the Y did so many things. It is a family place too. Think about the moms who are trapped at home. They will be able to have childcare there. There will be somebody certified to watch the kids while they work out. There is also the summer day camps.” There also is the economic impact to the area. The Walton County YMCA will eventually bring five to seven or even more full-time jobs and 75 – 100 part-time jobs, especially for young lifeguards and for day camps. The total economic impact is expected to be about $405,000 in part-time wages and about $250,000 in full time salaries annually for a total annual payroll of $655,000. At the heart of every YMCA program is health and wellness and the exercise and fitness that goes along with it as well as recreation and sports. You can find out more on how to help or follow the progress on Facebook at www.facebook.com/waltonymca. •WLM Check out some of the activites planned for the Walton County YMCA when it opens on Page 12.

10 Walton Living Magazine

Walton Living Magazine

Get fit at the Walton YMCA These are some of the programs that people can look forward to from the Walton County YMCA. Health and Wellness Nutrition classes Mental illness programs Smoking cessation Diabetes prevention Rehabilitation / pool and machine therapy Drug awareness and prevention Weight loss and maintenance Disability services Exercise and Fitness Swim lessons Aquatic exercises and lap swimming Age specific youth fitness Programs for women Fitness for beginners Indoor cycling Senior and group exercise Personalized fitness Yoga and dance classes Core-function training Age specific weight lifting Safe trails for walking, hiking and running Exercise and therapy programs for the handicapped Recreation and Sports Youth / high school swim teams Parent / child programs Youth sports and summer camps Youth basketball and soccer Lacrosse Tennis Pickleball Support for other community non-profit organizations Partner with the country to provide basketball venue Pick-up basketball for all ages Adult sports leagues YMCA swim teams Traditional volleyball

12 Walton Living Magazine

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PROMISE During the Pandemic Through adversity, entrepreneurs make best of times during COVID-19 By Melanie Ann Jackson

arly in 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic came storming into our lives changing them forever. There were many changes because of this that would become commonplace. Businesses closed with only the ones that were considered essential allowed to remain open, schools were closed and children, as well as teachers, were forced to learn and teach through virtual learning, churches no longer had open services just to name a few. Everyone started wearing masks, we were told to shelter in place, everyone was in a panic, scared, no one really knew what to expect and the unemployment

numbers went through the roof. How can anyone make a living and pay their mortgage and utilities, buy food, etc. if they are not bringing in an income? One of the positive things that Covid did was to create entrepreneurs, people who redesigned their lives and made changes. The results for them were amazing. Bruce and Chelsea Tucker from Monroe were high school sweethearts, newly married and both were college graduates. Bruce had received his degree in criminal justice and Chelsea earned her

Walton Living Magazine

degree in biology. They were both headed to new and exciting opportunities in their fields - until Covid arrived. Their dreams of employment were shattered, neither were able to continue in their individual expected careers. Both were facing a hiring freeze. The Tuckers have a little dog, an Italian Greyhound, that they say has very thin skin, and Chelsea started making clothes for it in late 2019. “I started just making bandanas as I was just starting to learn to sew,” she said. When Covid hit and both her and her husband’s careers were put on hold, she had an idea of what to do with it. “I thought I might be able to sell some online so we formed a company with the help of Etsy and named it ‘Tasteful Snoods.’ I then started making snoods, which are colored onesies for dogs and they just took off. This grew into other designs and colors and now we make requested sizes for all dogs.” The Tuckers are now selling their product internationally, sending them to many different countries. “People are loving these cute little dog clothes. We take great care in making them,” she said, adding with a smile “Jennifer Lawrence has even purchased our Snoods.” The clothing is made from a variety of fabric and custom designs are also available. “I see a real future in running this business with my wife, growing into it,” Bruce said. “She does all the sewing and I do the cutting and the shipping.” “It’s been a rollercoaster ride and a lot of fun. I can create, use new materials, I don’t punch a clock, I work from home and I am able to spend time with family,” Chelsea said. When they were asked if they would continue with Tasteful Snoods or pursue their original careers in time, they replied in unison, “Tasteful Snoods!” The Tuckers snoods can be found on Etsy at https://www.etsy. com/shop/TastefulSnoods Nicole Grimins, also from Monroe, was working as an office manager with average pay but was laid off due to Covid in April 2020. She was facing a grim future with no employment. “I saw someone I knew on Facebook who was doing a video and ‘fizzing’ ring bombs which looked like little boxes. When you drop these little containers in hot water they fizz away and inside is a colored foil paper that wraps around a ring. You then open the foil and find a ring inside a plastic baggie with the ring inside of it,” Nicole said. She looked into an opportunity with this company acting as a franchisee and knew she could earn an income.

“(When Covid hit) I thought I might be able to sell some online so we formed a company with the help of Etsy and named it ‘Tasteful Snoods.’ I then started making snoods, which are colored onesies for dogs - and they just took off.” 16 Walton Living Magazine

For membership & event information, visit www.waltonchamber.org, come see us in person at 207 North Wayne Street in Monroe or call us at 770.267.6594.

Walton Living Magazine

“I felt I could work at this and make my business grow. I started doing ‘live’ parties on Facebook under ‘Sizzle Fizzle’ to customers who wanted to buy from me. The ring sizes are 6-10, there are also earrings and necklaces available. The way it works people order their ring size or a necklace or earrings and I place the order. Everything is a surprise ‘just pick your size, I fizz it live, and the rest is a surprise,’ Nicole said, indicating the excitement she felt in her new business venture.” Nicole was thrilled at how quickly the venture took off. “I showed a profit in the third month. I also had others joining my team and I now have 25 people on my team,” she said. So when her previous company called her back to work after several months, she was able to decline the offer. “I have been this for one year as of April 13, 2021. I am making three times the money I was making with my previous employer. What I do now offers me the opportunity to be with my chidren and take care of them with doctor’s appointments, meetings and such. We have new products coming in all the time. It’s a lot of fun and I would recommend this type of opportunity to anyone,” she said. Nicole’s products can be found on Facebook at www.facebook. com/SizzleFizzle.ringbombparty/ There will always be times of trouble, despair, and sorrow. Our world is coming out of these times slowly, but we will be better for it in many ways. Success and happiness are what you make it. There are ways you can explore your dreams and make them happen. It can be done. •WLM 18 Walton Living Magazine

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PAWN AND GUN 1625 South Broad Street • Monroe 678-635-7447 • frogspawnandsales.com MON – FRI 9am – 6pm • SAT 9am – 4pm Walton Living Magazine

Well Mannered offers complete family experience

If you’ve ever been down Highway 11 through the heart of Social Circle, then you have seen the famous Well! There’s a new store that not only shares its name with this landmark, but it also has a front row seat!! Located east of the Well in Dowtown, sits this southern boutique that you surely need to visit. Well Mannered is a family clothing store located in Historic Downtown Social Circle, Ga. Hi, we’re Mitch and Titly Hubbard, owners of Well Mannered. We opened this southern inspired boutique in November of 2018 to provide a complete shopping experience for all members of the family. The initial purpose of this new store was to be the first in Social Circle to provide a full line of mens clothing. Once planning and store development began, we added women and children apparel and accessories to the shop’s identity. We even have items like collars and leashes for our 4-legged family members. Mitch was born and raised in

20 Walton Living Magazine

the small town of Social Circle and his wife, Titly, moved there from her home country of Bangladesh at age 9. We both love our little town and want to see our community grow with more small businesses and family owned Enterprises. Well Mannered produces our own brand of clothing items including t-shirts, hats, scarves and more - all made in Bangladesh. Our t-shirt is especially great as it is 100% cotton, and our own private knit produces a very soft feel to the touch. By producing 100% of their branded items in Titly’s home country, we are putting people to work and directly helping the local economy. Other than our own private line of clothing and merchandise, Well Mannered is an authorized retailer of several other popular men’s brands such as Peach State Pride, Southern Tide, Fieldstone, Zep Pro Wallets, Droppin’ Drake, and more! For the ladies, we have a full wall of beautiful jewelry pieces including necklaces, bracelets, rings, and a complete Vegan Leather purse section. There is an entire kids section offering t-shirts and more to boys and girls from newborn to teen. If you love to support local, stop in our store to see the full collection of locally made Georgia arts and crafts available for purchase! It’s always a fun time for sure when you visit with Mitch and Titly, and our Nana Miss Sue! We open at 12 noon Tuesday through Saturday! Let us know you saw us in Walton Living, and we’ll have a special treat for you!

Walton Living Magazine 21

“In this world that I work in, you are going to lose more than you win. That’s the nature of economic development. With that being said, you have to always focus on the prize and never give up.”

Community Leader

Keeping Walton Working Shane Short excels in the business of bringing business to the county By Robbie Schwartz

or most, it would be easy to sit back and relax after landing the largest investment project in Georgia’s history when Facebook announced its plans for a data center in the Stanton Springs Industrial Park. But that is not Shane Short’s style. “We are not done yet,” said the executive director of the Development Authority of Walton County. “Although we have had some great success stories, we still have a lot more to do, and I’m excited to be a part of that process.” It has been eight years since Short took over the reins at the Development Authority of Walton County, replacing the longtime stalwart in the local economic development scene in Nancy Kinsey. But his economic career was well established before coming to Walton County in 2013. And when looking back at what is already a storied career, Short likes to note that he did not pick economic development as a career, it was economic development that chose him. “Through a number of career changes, having served as an elected official and owning my own businesses, they all seemed to lead up to a career in economic development,” Short said. “The many ex-

periences I had – working for local government, being the president of two chambers of commerce and serving as an elected official – all seemed to have one thing in common: growing business. Businesses help do a number of things for the community – from providing quality jobs for families to supporting our local government through taxes and improving overall quality of life where people can eat and shop at local businesses. It has been a very rewarding career, and while owning my own business did give me flexibility that I may not have at my current job, I don’t see myself doing anything else.” And those who work with him, as well as other stakeholders in the community, are very glad to hear that. “Shane is a true asset to Walton County and we hope he’s here with us for many more years to come,” said Teri Smiley, president of the Walton County Chamber of Commerce. “I was fortunate to work with Shane in the same building for many years. His caring and willingness to help with chamber projects, committees, and logo/ad design work for us during that time is very much appreciated. Shane joining us in Walton County has been

been amazing. It’s no secret that the addition of industry in a community helps the tax base in the community. It goes beyond that though…these companies become new community partners and make an impact and influence in many areas around the county and surrounding areas. Additional job opportunities, employee volunteers, investments, donations to local charities and businesses all add value to our community. Shane has had great success with leading the effort to recruit in the four-county industrial park, Stanton Springs, as well as smaller industries locating and expanding in Walton County. His knowledge, positive working relationship with the State of Georgia, project managers and industrial builders added to his marketing and design skills is just what Walton County needed to continue to see positive growth.” And Smiley is not alone in her estimation on just how much of a benefit Short is to the community. State Rep. Bruce Williamson (R-Monroe) echoes those sentiments. “He has done an outstanding job of bringing high quality jobs and a strong industrial tax base to Walton County,” Williamson said. “He understands what industries need to succeed: skilled workforce, infrastructure, and low taxes with local leadership support. He always does his homework and is prepared as he seeks out companies that would be a good fit for Walton County. He has an extraordinary ability to bring companies that bring high paying jobs and also make excellent corporate citizens.” Short earned his bachelor’s degree in 1989 from Shorter 24

Walton Living Magazine

National Day of Prayer Ceremony Noon • Front of City Hall

C A R N I VA L FIELD NEXT TO CITY HALL May 13 • 5-10 p.m. May 15 • 2-11 p.m. May 14 • 5-11 p.m. May 16 • 2-10 p.m.

17th annual Master’s

CAR SHOW 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Town Green

WING FLING

10 am - 3 p.m. @ town green

Concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. MAY 21 at the Town Green

BAND X JUNE 18 RUMOURS JULY 16 SWINGIN’ MEDALLIONS AUG. 20 ROADHOUSE ATLANTA SEPT. 17 ON THE BORDER (Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band)

(Ultimate Eagles Tribute Band)

City of Loganville Events

cityofloganville

JUNE 26 SEPTEMBER 2

BEGINS AT NOON FIELD NEXT TO CITY HALL

Events 2021 ’ N I V GROO ON THE GREEN

SEPTEMBER 10

Battle theof Bands

City of Loganville

OCTOBER 9

@ Rock Gym

“Walton County will forever benefit from the work Shane Short and the Development Authority has done here in the County and add to that his leadership work in the Joint Development Authority and Walton County wins again.”

OCTOBER 16

MAY 15

MAY 13 13-- 16

MAY 6

M AY 1

bands

ART SHOW 5 to 9 p.m.

the ins and outs of all the incentives and infrastructure needs to land a company. He can bring the package needed to suit each individual prospect.” One of the early successes for Short and the DAWC came in December 2014 with the purchase of the former distribution center of Angel Food Ministries on Unisia Drive. It took more than a year to navigate the process to purchase the building as the property remained in private hands, was financed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and had a number of liens on the property. A little more than a year after the acquisition, the $2.5 million investment for the 160,000-square-foot building was turned around and sold to Flexo Converters USA for $4.5 million.

December 4

APRIL 13-15

b at t l e

OF THE

MAY 29

reet

College, but his path toward a career in economic development really didn’t start taking shape until 2004 when he became the president and CEO of the Clayton County Chamber of Commerce. Short later served as the president and CEO of the Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce, where he and his development team recruited more than $632 million in new businesses and more than 3,200 new jobs to the community over five years there. Those successful recruitment efforts included companies such as Toyota, Bed Bath & Beyond, Carters-Osh Kosh, Kubota, Walgreens, TigerDirect and more. In 2012, Short struck out on his own and created a consulting agency analyzing operating procedures and organizational structure for businesses in addition to also handling human resources, marketing and public relations matters. This was not Short’s first time starting up his own company, having previously owned a small public relations and advertising agency before his post in Clayton County. While handling multi-million dollar deals during the week, Short developed a fondness for antiquing, and it was in part his love for this hobby that first introduced him to Monroe and Walton County. Coupled with a good working relationship with Kinsey as well as then Walton County Chairman Kevin Little, it seemed like the pieces just fell into place for the DAWC position. “When Nancy Kinsey retired, Walton County was looking for the best person in the state. Shane Short was that guy. His knowledge of all aspects of economic development has set Walton County ahead of everyone. The way he approaches each prospect gives the companies and the state great feelings about Walton County,” Little said. “Shane is well prepared and knows

INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION

5 to 10 p.m. @ West Walton Park

PUBLIC SAFETY DAY 5 - 7 p.m. @ Town Green Movies on Main

Raya & the Last Dragon

7 P.M. @ Town Green

BACK THE BLUE

CAR SHOW 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Town Green

AUTUMN FEST 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Downtown

Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting 6 p.m @ Downtown

Walton Living Magazine 25

The deal also added 50 jobs to the local market. While the headlines go to the big success stories like landing a Facebook data center at Stanton Springs or helping recruit other businesses to the area, there is a lot more going on behind the scenes that to many goes unnoticed. Short handles his own administrative work, meaning his day-to-day tasks include answering phone calls, returning emails and setting up appointments to handle inquiries from companies based locally, across the country and across the globe. He also designed and maintains the www.choosewalton.com website, makes sure the bills get paid and designs advertisements. The job entails just as much work recruiting new businesses as it does making sure to take care of the ones that have already made the decision to call Walton County home. One way that is being accomplished is through the Walton Works initiative, which took shape when Dessa Morris was hired to work with Short. Walton Works helps industries with local needs, such as hiring employees and offering various types of training. The DAWC through the Walton Works program hosts hiring events and takes other steps to help local companies fill vacancies. Short said the efforts of the Development Authority of Walton County also includes helping local businesses better understand their competition, wages and other benefits that can help be competitive in a robust economy. There is also a responsibility to help local governments as well. “I feel it’s my duty to help our communities understand who they are, what their strengths are and their weaknesses,” Short said, who helped organize an economic summit of Walton’s county and city leaders in 2019. “By doing so, we can determine which industries are a good fit and which are not.” But Short is quick to point out the success of Walton County is certainly not a one-man show. “Great teamwork,” Short said was the key to success. “As the executive director, my job is to market Walton County. This takes a team of people to make it happen. I may be the face of the success, but there are many others who work behind the scenes. These include the Development Authority members, the Walton County Board of 26 Walton Living Magazine

Walton Living Magazine 27

Commissioners, the cities of Monroe, Loganville and Social Circle as well as the Joint Development Authority of Jasper, Morgan, Newton and Walton Counties, and great utility partners. I would also be remiss if I didn’t mention my economic development partners in the JDA, especially David Bernd and Serra Hall in Newton County. We have a special relationship that I don’t think exists in any other county in Georgia.” It has not taken newly elected WCBOC Chairman David Thompson long to figure that out too. “Working with Shane has been an honor for me, though it’s been only a short time I’ve worked with him, he has earned my total respect. I really look forward to our relationship in the future,” Thompson said. “Walton County will forever benefit from the work Shane Short and the Development Authority has done here in the County and add to that his leadership work in the Joint Development Authority and Walton County wins again. He is a professional at what he accomplishes, great negotiation expert, community oriented, job oriented and best of all property tax base oriented.” The largest success for Short to date came in 2018 when Facebook announced its $750 million investment for a data center in the industrial park. It was a deal that Short said he spent about 32 hours a week for almost 10 months helping do his part to secure the project, which is expected to bring 250 jobs to the area. Facebook announced earlier this year an expansion that would encompass more than 600 acres, constituting the sale of a majority of the land owned by the four-county authority. This would bolster the potential total investment in the data center to as much as $3.4 billion. The Joint Development Authority just approved another $42 billion bond for an unnamed company that will soon be locating in Stanton Springs – the second $42 billion deal lead by Short. But for every successful venture, there are several others that just didn’t take shape. “I learned a long time ago to not hold my breath,” Short said about the recruitment and negotiating process. “In this world 28 Walton Living Magazine

that I work in, you are going to lose more than you win. That’s the nature of economic development. With that being said, you have to always focus on the prize and never give up.” Short added in times like these, a person in his shoes has to think outside the box. “A couple of years ago, I was recruiting a large automobile manufacturer,” he said. “The company announced publicly they were looking for a new site in the U.S. I placed full-page color advertisements in newspapers where their two headquarters were located stating that we wanted their new plant in Walton County. Unfortunately, Georgia/Walton County didn’t win the project. But I gave it my best shot.” And it is that attitude that those who work with him believe is key to his successes. “I would say Shane doesn’t lose focus nor commitment. From the time he gets the call or email that a company is looking, he is ‘on it’ and stays ‘on it’ until the company makes a decision. Follow up is so important for any business or organization and Shane is great at this. He can juggle multiple projects at a time and keep all of them in the air,” Smiley said. “His knowledge of all facets of economic development, familiarity with areas for industrial growth in Walton County and his innate ability to negotiate all contribute to him being able to close deals. Shane has great charisma, goes above and beyond to make prospects feel welcome and is a team player.” “Shane is dedicated to Walton County. He gets focused in on a prospect and will out work anyone to make sure that Walton County is successful,” Little said. “The way he deals with prospects is just great. He makes them all feel welcome and that they are already a part of the community.” Walton County also benefits immensely from its location, being an hour from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport as well as four hours from the busiest port on the east coast in Savannah. There is also large tracts of land still available, infrastructure that can easily be improved upon for major projects, and a good quality of life. The vibrant downtown of Monroe, the retail stores of Loganville, and the large industries of Social Circle – as well as the great local schools – all combine to make Walton County a unique sell. In fact, while antiquing was what first brought Short to Walton County, it was the sense of community that sold him on taking the job and moving his family. And Short is ready to continue his job marketing those tangibles to bring new businesses to Walton County. “I hope my future is right here doing what I love to do most: economic development,” he said. “Of the communities I lived in throughout my career, Walton County is the only one I call home. I love the community, the location, our towns and, most importantly, the people. As long as the Development Authority will have me, I hope to continue in this position until I retire. But, with loving what I do, who knows when that will be.” And Dessa Morris, who works more closely than anybody with Short, hopes that won’t be for a long time.” “What a privilege to have a front-row seat to watch Shane work for Walton County and our region,” she said. “He is the boss I have dreamed of my entire career – the perfect combination of knowledge, determination and personality to make great things happen. He has truly changed our community and our region in a positive way.” •WLM

Barrett-Davis-Watson American Legion Post 233 “The American Legion Family

The Barrett-Davis-Watson American Legion Post 233 is a Non-profit 501 (c) 19, Veterans Service Organization. Our goal is to provide support to our veterans, their families, and our community. We, along with our American Legion Auxilliary members, host Bingo Sunday afternoons at 2:00, and on Monday, Wednesday and Thursdays nights at 7:30. The public is wecome and encouraged to come and play. We are supported in our efforts by our American Legion Riders and the Sons of The American Legions. Without them we would not be able to provide the depth of assistance and programs we offer daily. We also have spaces available for rent by the public.

On December 18th we will have our annual Children’s Party where every child attending gets a Christmas gift Please direct questions to info@gapost233.com

4635 Highway 78, Loganville, GA 30052 • 770-466-4728 • www.gapost233.com

monroedowntown.com Walton Living Magazine

Walton Living Magazine -

Your Local News, Inc. — A publishing company that brings you up-to-the minutue online news as well as a high quality magazine about the community you call home. Walton Living Magazine — Publishes twice a year - a Spring Summer Issue and a Fall Winter issue. Your Local News online - www.yourlocalnewsinc.com — An online publication that gets the news to you as it happens in Walton County and parts of East Gwinnett. You can access the news on your desktop or mobile device, or you can sign up for the eNews publication and get daily updates delivered to your email inbox 5 days a week. The news always arrives dry - and at no cost to you. Interested in advertising your business on Your Local News or in Walton Living Magazine? Let your company’s information be seen more than 2.5 million times online per year or in a printed magazines that publishes twice a year. Find out about packages that include both online in Your Local News as well as in print in Walton Living Magazine - the best of both worlds.

Call Sharon Swanepoel at 678-622-1747 or email sharon@waltonliving.com with news tips or items of interest you think would benefit the community. Call Melanie Ann Jackson at 404-375-7881 or email melanieann@waltonliving.com to find out how we can help you reach your potential.

Walton Living Magazine -

Check out a smoking BBQ recipe from a local cook on Page 36.

Grillin’& Grillin’& Chillin

Enjoying the smoky scents of summer in Walton County

By Melanie Ann Jackson

his is the time of year when our thoughts are in high gear waiting for all the wonderful pleasures spring and summer will bring to us. There are vacations being planned with families to visit, beaches to walk, woods to explore, pool parties with friends and so many other activities to enjoy. But the one thing that’s on most everyone’s minds is outdoor open-air cooking. Everyone loves good barbecue and grilling and the great sides served along with it; potato salad, corn on the cob, chips and dip, watermelon, and other summer fruits and salads. You can also fancy these up with different versions of each of the many sides available. The main course to all of these additions is, of course, the meat itself with all its deliciousness. How you cook it will determine the flavors and your success as a barbecue chef ! Cooking on an open fire is not as easy as it looks. It takes a lot of preparation and thought. There is an art to everything that is put on the fire and how it is prepared and finished. Grilling and making a good BBQ is not an exact science but a lot of trial and error in many cases - a lesson learned by many

outdoor chefs! But, there’s nothing more fun than a good old-fashioned “cookout” with family and friends. According to cindersbarbecue.com, about 72% of Americans who own a grill invested in a propane grill. They are clean-burning, have instant ignition, are temperature controllable, and are very versatile. They operate much like an oven. A charcoal grill on the other hand will produce a definite smokey flavor to your meat, but they need a lot of attention - watching the temperature, adding more charcoal or wood when needed to the grill, and cleaning up the ashes afterward. Deciding on what meat you want to serve will help you decide what type of cooker you will use; charcoal, propane, pellet, or wood. A propane grill is easy to use and some even have a way to add wood chips to get a smoky flavor. If, for instance, you are looking for a strong smokey flavor you would use a charcoal grill adding water-soaked wood chips to the charcoal. The wood chips themselves have different flavors depending on what tree they come from, applewood, hickory, mesquite, cherrywood to name

a few and each burns differently, hotter or longer. There are many different varieties on the market to explore. There is a major difference between barbecue and grilling. Barbecue was described in this way in Disqus Comments: “Over and over I’ve had to explain that, if it doesn’t involve a dead pig and a sauce, it’s not ‘BBQ.’ It’s just scorching hamburgers and hot dogs on a gas grill.” As a side note, did you know that barbecue sauce is actually said to come from the United States? The US is the world’s biggest barbecue market and, according to CNN, 80 million Americans barbecued last year, the most popular time being Labor Day. If you are considering a traditional American-style barbecue then it’s got to be barbecued chicken or smoked Texan brisket or good old southern Boston butt! If you are cooking on a charcoal grill, laying charcoal on both sides of your grill bottom rack but not the middle is a great way to smoke a whole chicken or turkey or a roast/prime rib. Lay a pan in the middle with water to catch the drippings and provide moisture. The heat you would need to cook different meats is high, medium, and low (this is where the handheld chimney does a great job). One full chimney of charcoal, about 100 cubes, will heat to 450-550°, 1/2 will give the chimney a medium heat of 350-450°, and 1/4 to 1/3 in the chimney will give you a lower heat for slow cooking (such as Boston butt). Kingsford.com has a huge recipe selection online for your convenience. Take advantage of it - it has great information. If you find your lack of time or knowhow limits you to the challenge, there are caterers that provide this service and will come to you with portable smokers attached to the back of their truck for your next friends and family get together. Johnny Knuckles BBQ also offers this service and has a great tip on getting the right amount of smoke to your butt at home. Cindy Dunaway of Johnny Knuckles suggests, “Be sure to smoke your meat over 100% wood, layer your seasonings, be patient and cook it to the desired tenderness, and, the real secret is in the sauce.” Our communities often have many great fundraisers offering smoked Boston butts, ribs and many times Brunswick stew! They do the work and you enjoy all the smoky, juicy taste of great BBQ - and you will be helping out nonprofits, as they help others at the same time. Enjoy your summer, your friends and family and your BBQ! •WLM

The main course to all of these additions is, of course, the meat itself with all its deliciousness. How you cook it will determine the flavors and your success as a barbecue chef ! 34 Walton Living Magazine

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Cooking Perfect BBQ

If it’s a great barbecue you want to make, here’s a good recipe from Steve Bales, owner of the Grill-NStation in Social Circle. Trim the fat from a Boston Butt or a pork shoulder and rub the meat with mustard. The mustard doesn’t leave flavor but acts as a bonding agent for the rub you will use. (He makes his own rub but says Butt Rub is a good one to use). Smoke the meat at 225° until the internal temperature reaches 160°-170°. Then take the meat and wrap it in foil and put it back in the smoker. The meat will then cook in its own juices. Smoke until the internal temperature reaches 205° for about three to four more hours. Total smoking time will vary according to size but will take 8-10 hours. -Melanie Ann Jackson

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Walton Living Magazine

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Spotlight on Social Circle

Charming and Vibrant for more than 150 years By Carole Townsend

n the Land Lottery of 1820, Joel Strickland of Tattnall County in Georgia drew Lot Number 96, First District of Walton County. Talking over that good fortune with his wife Elizabeth, Strickland decided not to keep the 250-acre windfall, and he sold the land to three gentlemen for the tidy sum of $118.00. John Blackmon was one of those three men, and circumstances eventually allowed him to purchase the entire parcel of land from the other two men, making him the sole owner. Over the next few years, Blackmon bought and sold several tracts of land in Walton county, but one particular parcel struck his fancy for several reasons. A clear running spring fed the surrounding area with sweet, fresh water. Nearby, on the banks of the Alcovy River, a band of Creek Indians had recently moved on from that very location. Early settlers knew that Native Americans’ presence indicated fertile farmland, rudimentary but established travel routes, and mild weather. A handful of other families had settled in the area, and Blackmon decided to build his own home on the site he had come to love. Not long after that, he donated some nearby land for the Methodist Church to build a house of worship. It didn’t take long for the sparse homesteads in southern Walton County to grow into a vibrant little village. Travelers would meet at the center of this village, rest a bit, and swap stories with their fellow wanderers. Some say that

these meetings and eventual friendships caused folks to exclaim, “My, this certainly is a social circle!” In 1845, the Georgia Railroad chugged through the settlement on its way west, making Social Circle the county’s first rail center. In 1864, Sherman’s infamous March to the Sea destroyed the Georgia Railroad between Social Circle and Madison, cutting off Confederate troops and supplies. Sixteen miles of rail were destroyed, along with a water tank, warehouses and other facilities in the area. According to Social Circle’s Mayor David Keener, “In 1869 Social Circle was incorporated as a town, and the town limits extended to one-half mile from the center of town in all directions.” Also according to Keener, “The coming of the railroad was probably the most influential event in Social Circle’s early history.” Several laws were on the books in the early days of the city of Social Circle, some of which seem trivial and even amusing today. One 1869 ordinance required merchants to close up shop at 10:00 p.m. Anyone found on the streets after that time had to either satisfactorily explain why, or spend the night in jail. Playing marbles on Sunday was expressly prohibited, as was cock fighting on any day of the week. Public structures had to feature strong underpinning, a means of keeping hogs out and the flea population at bay.

In the mid-1900s, Social Circle was a textile mill town, largely because of the location of the rail lines. Social Circle Cotton Mill, owned by Cannon Mills, was built in 1901 and bricked up in 1972. To this day, city leaders recognize the importance of the mill site and wish to incorporate the area’s history and character into future redevelopment plans. In fact, the entire downtown area of Social Circle is designated a National Historic Area, and those who are guiding the city’s future plans both respect and treasure that distinction. Education a strong foundation Almost a year after W.H. Stanton Memorial Library closed in 2020 due to the global pandemic, plans are in place to completely re-open the library to the public. This after an earlier shutdown for a $3 million renovation and expansion project that was completed in 2019 doubled the size of the library. “When people think of a library, what comes to mind are rows and rows of books,” said Amy Hicks, Manager of W.H. Stanton Memorial Library. “But that is what libraries used to be. Today, they are so much more.” Computers, wi-fi, tutoring, job resources, all these and more define today’s libraries. “There’s literally something here for every member of the community,” Hicks added. “Sewing clubs, books clubs, storytime, music and movement classes, and summer reading programs can be found in our libraries,” said Stacy Brown, Director for the Azalea Regional Library System. “Now more than ever, libraries are family-friendly.”

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Community outreach has been critical to the success of the W.H. Stanton Memorial Library. With the help of the Kiwanis Club, funds were made available so that every child from Pre-K through 6th Grade could receive a Scholastic® book during COVID shutdowns of schools and libraries. That program, called “Books are Key,” will continue even post-COVID, for students Pre-K through 5th Grade. Through a grant from the state of Georgia, the library also offers a technology lending program. Students can check out Chromebooks, hot spots, launch pads, and Osmos (for iPad), all in an effort to keep every child up to grade level despite the extraordinary circumstances of 2020 and 2021. “Re-tooling and re-imagining have been critical in the effort to reach children and adults alike during these unusual times, and Amy has done a great job at W.H. Stanton Memorial Library,” said Brown. “Curbside services are still offered to library patrons, but we’re also open for those who want to browse our stock,” Hicks said. Safety precautions are always observed inside the library, including a mandatory mask requirement, social distancing, hand sanitizer stations, and available cleansing wipes. While the library is a central emblem for Social Circle’s strong commitment to education, one can’t forget that the city has its own school system with an elementary, middle and high school. The mission of the school system that is part of the “Walton Proud” education initiative is to provide a “premier education for all students.”

The Blue Willow Inn: gone with the wind A conversation about Social Circle just isn’t complete without mentioning the Blue Willow Inn. Founded in 1991 by Louis and Billie van Dyke, the Blue Willow became as familiar to folks as have other Paula Deen-esque establishments with mouthwatering histories. Named for a well-known china pattern, the Blue Willow was an elegant inn with a restaurant famous for serving some of the tastiest, most authentic southern cooking around. On some days, restaurant staff even wore antebellum clothing to lend an atmosphere of authenticity to the whole experience. Celebrities often visited the sprawling, yellow-brick mansion to feast at tables laden with cornbread, blackeyed peas, fried chicken, sweet potatoes, macaroni and cheese…all the delicacies that bring true southerners back to their childhood roots with just one nostalgic whiff. Famed columnist Lewis Grizzard (himself a southern delicacy), in a 1992 column lauding the heavenly gastronomic experience of the restaurant’s fried green tomatoes, put the Blue Willow Inn on the map simply by writing about it. The inn and restaurant took a staggering financial hit following the drawn-out economic woes of 2008. Still, the landmark gothic mansion and the delicacies cooked up inside remained part of Social Circle’s economy until COVID-19 hit the United States, proving to be an unsurmountable blow to the historic Blue Willow Inn. With

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Walton Living Magazine 43

dishes served buffet-style, it simply could not weather the protracted shut-down. Today, city leaders are hoping that the right buyer will come along to once again breathe life into the stately old manor and the kitchen that fed so many with its southern charms. The Future Looks Bright The City of Social Circle is known as “Georgia’s Greatest Little Town,” Keener said of the town he has governed since November 2019 (previously, Keener served on city council for several terms before being elected mayor). The quaint, small-town atmosphere, close-knit community, and top-notch schools attract new residents from all over the country. In fact, one of the smartest changes the city can make, according to the mayor, is to invest in a healthy future by meeting the demand for residential housing brought on by the city’s proximity to industry, Interstate 20 and rail transportation. Of course, the city’s infrastructure must meet the demands of that growth. Public Works Director Robbie Groves is proud of the progress her crews are making with respect to rebuilding the sewer treatment plant and water treatment plant. “Some sewer pipes in the city are so old they’re made of terra cotta, so those pipes are being replaced. That really helps property owners,” Groves said. Grants have also been secured to extend sidewalks and make other improvements where needed. The city of Social Circle is poised to enter a new era of growth and prosperity, thanks both to its rich past and to the planning and vision of its current leaders. For instance, this quaint, small town that straddles both Walton and Newton counties has its own transit service. For just one dollar each way, city residents can schedule rides to work, to doctor appointments, and even to the supermarket. Twice a week, city residents can also go via the same shuttle to Monroe and Covington for medical and employment reasons. “We’d really like to see our transit program grow and expand into the county,” said Transit Director Mindy McQueen. “We’ve developed great relationships with all of our riders, and we’re committed to making this service available to everyone who needs it.” Another little-known fact (outside the city) is that Social Circle is a favorite filming location. The Fighting Temptations, a movie starring Cuba Gooding, Jr., was filmed in Social Circle. An episode of the television action-adventure drama MacGyver was filmed there. The film Southern Gospel was filmed in Social Circle, as were the movies 42 and the last Nancy Drew movie. Several other film projects were in the works before COVID-19 shut things down, but there can be no doubt that filming will pick back up again as soon as it’s feasible. “We just have that smalltown, Mayberry feel that people love” said Downtown Manager Amber McKibben. However, don’t let that “Mayberry feel” fool you. Social Circle has its sights set on growth and expansion, and McKibben is excited about the possibilities. First, Georgia State University has a campus near I-20 in Newton County, not very far from the city. An art class from the university is coming to Social Circle for a kite festival in beautiful, new Friendship Park. Other collaborative events are planned between the park and the university, as well. Friendship Park is the newest crown jewel in Social Circle. Made possible by financial contributions from the city’s Downtown Development Authority, Main Street, Facebook, Georgia 44 Walton Living Magazine

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Power, and several grants, Phases I and II are complete. A figure-8 sidewalk, stage, and pavilion grace the park, which is located across from Ace Hardware. Master Gardeners of Walton County installed a sweeping pollinator garden. IMMEC Construction Management Services, located in Social Circle, was a major contributor to building both the stage and the pavilion. “We have a great partnership with (IMMEC) and are excited to have them in Social Circle,” McKibben said. The American Legion and the Social Circle Garden Club partnered to install a Blue Star Marker in the park, the star dedicated to Walton County veterans and their families. “This is a very big thing for Social Circle,” said McKibben. With Friendship Park having been completed in 2020, McKibben expects 2021 to be the first year that the park will be used to its full potential. The city’s Farmers Market, which kicked off March 25, is held on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. A concert series is planned this May through July, with Chris, Jon and Scott (a local favorite band) slated to take the stage for the May show. Movies in the park kicked off March 26 with an Easter Movie, while “What’s Hoppin’ in the Circle” kicked off March 17. The two events highlighted retail shops and restaurants in the city, as well as patrons of those establishments. 48 Walton Living Magazine

An Independence Day Fireworks show, the Friendship Festival, Taste of Social Circle, Back-to-School Block Party, and a Christmas Celebration and Tree Lighting are all on the calendar for Social Circle in 2021, following a 2020 that only saw four such events take place. “We’re all ready to get back out there and enjoy the park and our city,” McKibben said. “I really wish people would come downtown to see what Social Circle has to offer. There is a great mix of a lot of different things.” With respect to the old textile mill that played such an important role in the city’s history, plans are being considered to redevelop the site and include much-needed downtown housing in that development. According to Keener, Social Circle’s geographic location, combined with its rural southern charm, are a one-two punch when it comes to the city’s promising future. Infrastructure improvements and plans to build housing that is already in great demand will also work together to shape the city’s future, as will the strong school system. McKibben sums it up well, saying, “The real spirit of the city can be seen in its leaders. We all work together as a team, with a bright vision and a willingness to do whatever it takes to preserve our history and meet the future.” •WLM

Walton Living Magazine

Backing the Blue

Georgia State Patrol Post 46 in Walton County: Supporting local law enforcement - and the community By Sharon Swanepoel

f you pass a wreck anywhere in Walton County, there’s a good chance you also will see a Georgia State Patrol vehicle and accompanying trooper on the scene with other local law enforcement and first responders. In fact, any issue that requires a public safety response is likely to draw a response from the local GSP post as well - and there’s a good reason for that. Although the primary focus of the GSP is traffic laws and investigation of traffic crashes, GSP also supports all local public safety agencies and actions. “The biggest thing we do is the traffic. We pretty much work the majority if not all the wrecks in the county,” said GSP Sgt. 1st Class James Buchanan,

commander of Post 46 in Walton County. “That frees the deputies up so they can actually be in the community more and in the subdivisions combatting other things - like people breaking into cars, which they’ve had a rash of lately.” Post 46, located on Ga. Highway 11 between Monroe and Social Circle, serves Walton, Newton and Rockdale counties. Buchanan heads up the post with assistant commanders Sgt. Richard Thacker and Cpl. Calvin Barton. The cities within the counties also have the backup of GSP if needed, especially in the case of the more serious wrecks or fatalities. “Whether it be Walton County or any of the

cities, if they call us for anything we respond. If they need us, we will go,” Buchanan said. “If there is a wreck in the city where it needs extra investigation or if it is a serious wreck, a pedestrian wreck or a fatality, they call us,” Thacker said. “Or if it is one that involves one of their officers or if it is someone who actually works for the city and it is therefore a conflict, then they will call us.” “Like pursuits or calls where they need extra people, we can respond. Or if they need an extra person on a domestic call,” Barton said. “If we’re close then we can obviously respond.” “We kind of step outside of the normal scope of what people think of the State Patrol as doing to assist the county. It forges that relationship even stronger between us and the deputies at the Sheriff’s Office,” Buchanan said. “We monitor the Walton County’s dispatch channel and portable radios. So we have that open communication where I can talk directly to Walton County’s dispatch or a deputy or a city officer via the portable radios. So if I’m close and know I’m right around the corner, I may be the first one that shows up on a domestic. I will turn it over to the deputy when he gets there. They are going to be the main ones to handle the call. We’re just there to assist.” GSP supports all efforts of public safety to reduce criminal activity and also responds to natural or manmade disasters as well as assisting stranded motorists. In order to achieve its mission, GSP has access to six specialized units, Criminal Interdiction, Implied Consent, Motorcycle Unit, Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team (SCRT), Specialized Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), GSP Dive Team, Governor’s Task Force, and the Regional K-9 Task Force. Post 46 does not have its own K-9, but 52 Walton Living Magazine

most of the law enforcement posts in its region have their own K9s. But GSP Post 46’s contributions to Walton County are not confined to just local law enforcement. The post also prides itself on its community involvement. “Most of us live in the community or close by. I am one of only two from this post who doesn’t actually live in one of the three counties that we serve,” Buchanan said. “I live just outside the Walton County line in Gwinnett County, but I do everything in Walton County. I work here and I do all my shopping here.” Thacker and Barton are both Walton County residents. “I grew up here, went to school here and this is where I live,” Barton said.

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So if there is a community project that that will benefit the community, you’re likely to find someone from Post 46 in attendance. “We do Toys for Tots usually every year. They do career days at elementary schools. Sometimes we will bring the helicopter in and let them see it landing,” Buchanan said. “We do car seat checks, child restraint checks. Most everybody here is a trained technician so we can show you how to install the seat correctly. Obviously they have to install it themselves so they know how to do it,” Barton said. “Also, anybody in Walton County who gets a DUI, you’re required as part of your punishment to donate a car seat to Safekids Walton County. That is Kathy Culpepper with Walton County Sheriff’s Office. So if we stop somebody on the side of the road in Walton County and they don’t have a car seat, maybe they couldn’t afford one - they’re expensive - we can get in touch with them and we can provide one for them.” One thing Buchanan would like to see is more troopers staffing the post. “We have a total of 10 people, but sometimes we have to supplement other posts in the area due to staff shortages,” Buchanan said. “I’d like to see double that.” Although the national climate may not appear law enforcement friendly at the moment, Buchanan says a lot of that is more media related and it is not something they see here. “In fact, just the opposite,” Thacker said. “We get a lot of support from the community. We have people thanking us all the time for what we do.” And there is a lot of satisfaction in the job they do at the GSP. “I like the freedom to do what I need to do and the responsibility that goes with it,” Thacker said. “I also like the bigger area that I have to work in - and if I wanted to transfer to another area, I could.” “I like the camaraderie and that freedom to do what I need to do. As long as you’re self sufficient, you’ll do well in this job,” Barton said. “I like knowing that I’m helping somebody, whether it’s helping somebody if they’re stuck on the side on the road or even if somebody is having an emotional day and you have to stop them and are able to talk to them. You never know when you may have helped somebody.” Buchanan said they are looking for a few more good troopers. So if you are a self sufficient and self motivated individual who believes you have what it takes, GSP wants to hear from you. To apply for a trooper position and initiate the employment process, interested candidates must complete a State of Georgia application for employment. You can do that at https://dps.georgia.gov/trooper-application-and-employment-process. You could be one of the new GSP troopers that ends up in one of those positions Post 46 in Walton County is looking to fill. •WLM

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Walton Living Magazine

Rich Past & Continual Contributions Walton County’s Black History is rooted in faith, family, education and a successful future By Christy Breedlove

hen Walton County was created in 1818, it is ironic that black slaves were suppressed in a county named for a signer of the Declaration of Independence. In 1820, the population was a mere 4,192 and since then, our community has grown in leaps and bounds to almost 100,000 today. African Americans comprise 18.9% of the population according to the US Census Department. Even through the 1946 Moores’ Ford lynchings, the shooting of Lt. Michael Etchison and KKK violence, African Americans still strove to improve their lives and their local and national communities. From successful businessmen William “Cap” Jackson and Alonzo Herndon to renowned academic Eleanor Lutia Ison Franklin, highly successful African Amer-

icans in Walton County have contributed much to the country. What has kept this vibrant culture alive in Walton County? Simply put it is faith, family and a promising eye to the future without forgetting the past. The Moore’s Ford lynching remains unsolved but that does not stop activists from pushing for justice. The Zion Hill Cemetery a few blocks from the Monroe United Methodist Church is in full swing, clearing the lot so children can learn to honor former slaves. Most of this is community driven by lifelong residents because Walton County is their home. Elizabeth Jones, who has spearheaded this effort, is also a member of the Monroe Diversity Advisory Board, a group that came out of the Monroe Gamechanger project of which Rashaad Ansley was a member.

Elizabeth Jones cleans the gravestone of Moore’s Ford Lynching victim Mae Murray Dorsey at Zion Hill Cemetery a few blocks from the Monroe United Methodist Church. Ansley heads up the Monroe Diversity Board which, in part, has a mission to highlight the positive impact that members of Walton County’s African American community have made to the City of Monroe. Plans are underway to erect markers that highlight these contributions. Black churches have long been the cohesive center in their communities. Long before the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s, the faith organizations were the stepping stones to bettering the lives of their parishioners. Other remedies like governments and law enforcement were, at best, tenuous when it came to help. Faith communities brought together the old and young, the poor and poverty stricken in a safe environment. The churches filled that social and financial need by aiding the parishioners. The good they did eventually became the roots of the African American community here in Walton County. According to Deacon Kirklyn Dixon’s information, Mount Enon Baptist Church is one of the oldest active black churches having been deeded the land in 1864 by Solomon Locklin. The first nine members of Mount Enon split from Bethel Baptist and organized a missionary Baptist church which later was named Mount Enon. After enduring a harsh winter, hard labor and transportation issues, the faithful gathered every third Sunday to worship at the site. Despite a fire that destroyed the first built church, these parishioners rebuilt and the church is still thriving today. The 2-classroom Mt. Enon Church School, initially 58 Walton Living Magazine

attended by some of the elder church parishioners, sits alongside the church still holding onto its place in history. Fittingly, Lt. Michael Etchison was laid to rest in the church graveyard. Etchison was the first Monroe police officer killed in the line of duty. He was shot and killed following a high speed pursuit on Oct. 11, 1977. The roots run deep for Walton native Lillie Middlebrooks, Carver Middle School’s 2020-2021 Support Person of the Year who attends Good Hope Baptist Church. “We follow the Golden Rule - whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them,” Middlebrooks says. “We support and assist the widows of our Church and Community, along with the less fortunate in sickness and distress. Love everyone and never hate.” Good Hope Baptist Church also has been burned down, twice, and rebuilt - much like their flock. Middlebrooks firmly believes that a solid foundation laid in faith during a child’s formative years will keep that sense of solidarity throughout life. “The future has to be shaped today but we still teach the past. Once children accept the Lord fully, they will have a fruitful and faith-filled life. We want them to learn to rely on God, themselves and their family.” To that end, Good Hope Baptists offers an active youth group, music and ministers that resonate with the children, especially teens, about connecting faith with life. Faith is not restricted to worshipping God but faith in one’s

Walton Living Magazine 59

Family members of fallen Monroe police officer Michael Etchison at the Monroe Museum exhibit honoring his legacy. self, mentors and family is almost as important. And while that resilience usually comes from family, Walton Board of Education District 1 Representative Simoan Capers Baker insists that it is important for other adults to step forward to mentor young African American children. Capers Baker explains, “There are everyday heroes that inspire children, especially children of color, to succeed and have labored to enrich the lives of those that they have touched. Most notably for me, Mrs. Ann Stover, a middle school English teacher played a crucial role in me aspiring to want to be successful. She was articulate, respected, and her presence was commanding. That type of representation is powerful. For many adolescents, it is important to show them how to value themselves and their cultural identity.” Stover, who is retired but is an active substitute teacher for Walton County Schools, shares her philosophy on teaching. “I hope I taught my students to have faith in God and themselves. But the one piece of advice I can give to everyone is to listen - not just hear - but listen. By doing that, we can solve all problems. We can address the needs of one another and the community. Adults need to listen to children so the students can have a positive self-esteem and feel valued.” 60 Walton Living Magazine

This self-resilience and hope taught by Stover was evident even before her time in the turbulence of the middle of the 20th century. Steve Brown from the Monroe Museum reported that in 1944 at 14 years of age, Eleanor Isun, daughter of Carver teacher Rose Isun, graduated from Carver High School as the class valedictorian. She later went on to become the Dean of Medicine at Howard University. In 1968, the all black Carver High School fielded a championship football team which had Michael Etchison as a player. Desegregation occurred in the late 1960s and for the first time Walton County Schools had a completely integrated system. Carver High School became Carver Middle School. The mascot and the name remained the same to honor George Washington Carver and preserve the history and soul of blacks striving to improve and change the world even through generational poverty and apathy. Located in the front of the present day Carver Middle School on Good Hope Church Road stands a statue of a wildcat-CMS’s mascot. Beneath the shrubbery lay a memorial plaque from 2005 commemorating long time Carver High School’s principal, Charles Pittman Cochran. On it is a quote that charges students “to make the best better.” Jennifer Sims, a former student at Carver Junior High School, remembers Cochran as a strict authority figure who set high standards and demanded that students do their best. “I was scared of him.” Sims admitted. “But Mr. Cochran insisted that everyone be courteous and respectful.”

Dell Pitts was an English teacher under Cochran. “Mr. Cochran set a high standard in school, out of school and in public for all students, but especially for athletes. They were students first and athletes second. He always wanted everyone at Carver to be better.” Capers Baker sums up the African American culture that has survived in Walton County for generations. “Our contributions to culture can easily overshadow the need to build generational wealth or to see leaders locally who represent us. These same contributions can also be minimized and not seen as how great they are. We must work together as a community to understand our past and how so many African Americans have worked, labored, and died to make America what it is today. Understanding our rich past and continual contributions is critical for truly finding value in our cultural identity.” Just like Charles Pittman Cochran said…to make the best better. •WLM

“There are everyday heroes that inspire children, especially children of color, to succeed and have labored to enrich the lives of those that they have touched.”

Walton Living Magazine 61

Coping with

COVID Schools in Walton County dealing with education during pandemic

By Christy Breedlove

uhan, China and Walton County, Georgia are 7830 miles apart. The first case of COVID19 was identified in China in December 2019. And like most highly contagious viruses, it didn’t take long for it to migrate from China to Walton County. On March 24, 2020, Walton County reported its first case of COVID19. Since that spring, all schools in Walton County have sprung into action to continue their missions-to educate the children and at the same time, keep everyone safe. For the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year, schools offered distance learning. While this was a lot of work, more effort was needed to ensure safety for the 2020-2021 school year. The county’s largest school district, Walton County, kept in close contact with the Georgia Department of Public Health, the Northeast Georgia Health District and the Walton County Health Department to minimize the spread of COVID19 to students and staff. Callen Moore, WCSD’s Public Relations Officer, explains, “The Walton County School District’s

biggest consideration was offering classes in safe, healthy and supportive learning environments. While district leaders felt confident in the ability to open for in-person learning, they respected the fact that some families may not be ready to return to school.” To that end, the district began school both in person and online on August 4, 2020 with measures in place to prevent infection in the physical building. The custodians, staff and faculty were given instructions and plans. Hand sanitizer stations and water dispensers were installed as well as new lunchroom and hallway procedures. Contact tracing using seating charts has become a necessary step and masks are highly recommended for both students and staff. One of the most vital aspects of WCSD’s response has been keeping parents and stakeholders informed of any new data. “We believe it is important to share one message in order to limit misinformation and rumors.” Moore points out. “Creating consistent messaging is

of the utmost importance in order to keep the community informed with the latest information. While multiple messages may share the same general information, they can often create confusion and be less effective.” Moore also recommends visiting www.walton.k12.ga.us to stay abreast of all call outs and material. Parents and others can provide input and have their questions answered by contacting their child’s teacher, school administrator and on social media. As for next school year, Moore admits that they are still figuring that out. “At this time, WCSD is in the planning phase for next year. District leaders are working to create multiple options that might be used if COVID-19 is still a factor and if it is not. One of the things that gave WCSD an advantage in reopening schools was the decision to plan ahead last spring. We are continuing to stay ahead of the curve by looking at all the possible ‘what-ifs’ in order to be as prepared as possible.” Social Circle City Schools are also in the thick of the fight against the virus. Assistant Superintendent Dr. Carrie Booher praises the work of her staff and faculty. “Our staff members consistently demonstrate their willingness to do whatever it takes to help our students to be successful. We are very fortunate to have staff members who are eager to learn new instructional strategies and a support staff that is ready to 64 Walton Living Magazine

The Factory in Monroe offer industrial-chic backdrop for events The Factory at Walton Mill is located within a row of gorgeously renovated warehouses on the sprawling property of the former Walton Cotton Mill Company, located on the outskirts of downtown Monroe. For over a century these buildings were used for spinning and weaving cotton into cloth. Today, they have been charmingly restored in keeping with the character of their original industrial architecture. The Factory at Walton Mill is a charming industrial-chic venue, located in historic cotton warehouses. Guests enter the Willow Room which is perfect for cocktail hours, small events or just as a welcoming lobby for the main event. The main event room, the Hawthorn Room, features warm wood walls and massive beams next to exposed brick with wonderful wood floors. It can host up to 250 guests for a seated reception and even more for a ceremony. Throw in an expansive gathering porch and this is the perfect spot for a rustic chic wedding or any event. For personal tours or booking information, please contact the venue manager at 678-699-0733 The venue address is: 600 S. Broad Street Monroe, GA 30655

Walton Living Magazine 65

provide training and resources whenever necessary.” She adds that the district works very closely with Dr. Andrea Hill and Piedmont Walton to better meet the current conditions. The district also uses experts from the CDC and the Department of Public Health for guidance. Booher is confident that the rigorous sanitizing and safety protocols that they have employed resulted in low COVID-19 positive and quarantine rates. The district also benefited from a program enacted in the first two weeks of school in August. “A unique play for us was to use the first 2 weeks in all classes at all grade levels to emphasize SEL [Social and Emotional Learning]. Our staff members spent the majority of the time getting to know the students and creating a supportive team environment. We are confident that taking the time at the beginning of the school year to develop strong relationships and create a caring culture have benefited our students and staff. When students feel valued and supported, learning is much more efficient and effective.” Dr. Booher saud. This approach allowed students to connect with not just their counselors but teachers, school support staff and other students. Each classroom invests time in meeting “the social and emotional learning for children at each grade level.” To keep their families in the know, Social Circle uses a communication tool called “Our Return to School Playbook” and their website www.socialcircleschools.org. “We have received lots of positive feedback on the transparency [of Our Return to School Playbook] that we have provided so that families could make the best decision for their children. We were fortunate to have stakeholders from our staff members, families, and health care experts from the CDC and Department of Public Health when crafting our plays.” Dr. Booher says. “Our COVID transmission rates are extremely low. We believe that our robust protocols help to mitigate the spread of disease. Following these protocols ensures that our students have access to safe and engaging face-to-face and remote educational opportunities. We are very grateful to our staff and students for wearing masks when social distancing is not possible, staying home when they are sick, and sanitizing hands and high touch surfaces regularly.” George Walton Academy knew this school year would be challenging. Dr. Dan Dolan, GWA’s Head of School believed the best approach was a unified community effort. “We held numerous meetings throughout the past spring and

“We are confident that taking the time at the beginning of the school year to develop strong relationships and create a caring culture have benefited our students and staff. When students feel valued and supported, learning is much more efficient and effective.”

66 Walton Living Magazine

Walton Living Magazine

summer to gain input from parents, students and teachers. We also assembled a group of parents who work in the healthcare field to serve as an advisory panel. Their advice and recommendations from the CDC and DPH, helped the school to develop a Back to Campus Plan--a blueprint for the school’s COVID response that addresses the concerns of families that include masks, reductions in class sizes, temperature monitoring and sanitizing stations throughout the school.” Dr. Dolan emphasizes, “Our priority was, and always is, to provide a high-quality educational experience while protecting the health and safety of students, parents, faculty, staff and our community.” But Dr. Dolan is not alone in working with the students. Lynn Robinson, Director of School Counseling is hard at work at helping GWA students. However she is very hopeful that the children will emerge from this stronger. “The one thing we know about children, no matter what their age, is that they are far more resilient than adults,” Robinson said. “During the pandemic, our students have learned what it means to be resilient. Sometimes, they have bouts of sadness, depression and/or anger, but they have learned, and continue to learn, through experiencing the valuable lessons of facing adversity.” At Loganville Christian Academy, the school has risen to the challenge to fight COVID. Their biggest consideration has been how to fulfill the mission of LCA (to prepare students academically, spiritually and socially for God’s call in their lives) in the midst of a pandemic. One of their core beliefs is actively engaging parents as a part68 Walton Living Magazine

ner in their child’s education. They recognized that each family has a different dynamic from autoimmune diseases to elderly members to cancer treatment. As such, they offered the choice of in person or distance learning. Rachel Ernst, administrator and Upper School principal, states that the health and wellbeing of their staff, students, and families have been our top priority during the pandemic. “Throughout 2020, we have enhanced our sanitation processes. Some examples are installing UV lights in all classrooms and common spaces, adding more frequent cleaning cycles to some of our common touchpoints (stairwell handles, door knobs, etc.), replacing our water fountains with touchless bottle-fill stations,

and eating in classrooms.” She adds that keeping in close contact with the CDC, the health department and children’s hospitals has helped. If COVID has taught us anything, it is how to remain flexible.” Ernst continues. “Fortunately, LCA has a strong team of leaders and educators that are not only capable, but also willing to pivot when needed.” Monroe Country Day School’s aim during this pandemic is help parents and students cope with the virus by making wellness their top priority. MCDS’ Community Health Coordinator, Sarah Johnson, said that they knew this year would be complicated. “MCDS follows CDC/DPH guidelines as well as having a committee of medical professionals who review the regularly updated guidelines and make decisions for the school based on this information.” One of the most important tasks for MCDS is helping their families cope with this virus. “MCDS is helping parents and students cope with the virus by making wellness our top priority. This means taking the necessary steps to remain in-person as much as possible,” Johnson said. “Not only is in-person instruction typically more effective, but the social aspect is a key factor in healthy child development. By taking a few additional precautionary measures, we are able to provide our families with a safe and stable school environment.” As for next year, Johnson admits it may be too soon to tell. “But at MCDS our focus remains on keeping everyone safe and in-person this school year.” The takeaway from all schools is simple--providing top-notch education while keeping our community safe and welcoming. While COVID has disrupted many things, it can’t stop Walton County from looking out for everyone. •WLM

“Not only is in-person instruction typically more effective, but the social aspect is a key factor in healthy child development. By taking a few additional precautionary measures, we are able to provide our families with a safe and stable school environment.”

Walton Proud!

Walton Strong!

www.waltonchamber.org www.waltonproud.com

The Walton County Chamber of Commerce celebrates success, innovation and community involvement in our public and private schools. • Walton graduation rates are above state and national averages • Schools are leveraging cutting-edge technology • Walton teachers are highly qualiﬁed and love teaching here • There is a great sense of cooperation among our schools and business community

“In Pursuit of Excellence”

Whether you live in Walton County or are thinking about moving to the area, we invite you to learn more about A+ education in our community.

Walton Living Magazine 69

200 Years

The City of Monroe’s Bicentennial Celebrating 200 years of history

By Sharon Swanepoel

he history of the area known as the City of Monroe, Ga. began long before Nov. 30, 1821. But that is the date it was incorporated into a city and that makes this a very special year. It is the year we get to celebrate the official Bicentennial of the City of Monroe. Walton County was laid out by the Lottery Act of 1818 and in 1819 was named in honor of George Walton, one of the three Georgians who signed the Declaration of Independence. According to the official record of the early beginnings of the City Monroe, Elisha Betts of Virginia gifted six acres

surrounding an area then known as “Spring Place” for county buildings and private and public cemeteries as this was a public gathering place for citizens in the surrounding community - a good place for a county seat. He also suggested the town be named “Monroe” in honor of James Monroe, the fifth president of the United States. The offer, along with the suggested name, was accepted and, in 1820, Monroe became known as the county seat of Walton County. The following year, the City of Monroe was incorporated - and now, 200 years later, we get to celebrate its early beginnings and all that

has happened since then. Back then, that same Elisha Betts helped in the erection of log and frame houses and a tavern known as “Major Humphries Assembly Room” a meeting place for public meetings, dancing, and other forms of amusement. Despite its incredible growth over the past 200 years, Monroe has managed to hang on to its history. The Monroe Museum on S. Broad Street is testament to its pride in that history. And even today, that history continues to be fostered in the city’s preservation of architecture and traditions. Of historical significance is the city is likely to be welcoming back another Major Humphrey’s assembly place as it begins establishing the next 200 years of history. In this case, the spelling is a little different, and plans are for it to be a brewery and taproom on S. Madison Avenue, but it too is expected to become a popular gathering place for Monroe’s community. “It is significant that two moments in Monroe history are coming together on Madison Avenue,” Monroe historian Steve Brown said when plans for the new business were first announced. “The namesake of one of Monroe’s first social gathering spots finds a home in the former home of Monroe’s first corporation, the spark that led to Monroe’s growth into the 20th century.” And now, as the city moves into its next century, Mayor John Howard can only see good things for the city that he says has adopted the moniker of the “Best Small Town in America, because we are hitting on all cylinders.” “I have the great fortune of serving at the very best time in the city’s 200 years,” he said. “Our local schools are performing better than ever! Test scores are up. Parents, Students, and Teachers 72 Walton Living Magazine

have given outstanding ratings to our schools, our hospital is in the top ten in the state of Georgia, our crime rate is down 20% in two years, our downtown was recently ranked #1 in the state, and we have recently been named as a Georgia GEMS (GA Exceptional Main Street) Community.” Howard is not shy about his pride in the city, noting other current projects, such as fiber to the homes, a new home for the Monroe Police Department, two new parks - the planned 123 acre Reliant River Park and the DownTown Green, which is already hosting events) and renovations at all the other city parks. “Our airport is expanding with new hangars and new asphalt and expansion for our runway. We are running new sewer, expanding our water system, upgrading our wastewater treatment plant, expanding our gas lines to serve new areas, and running conduit to long-term expand our fiber system,” Howard said. “We are coming up with new and exciting (public and private) opportunities and events to increase foot traffic in our commercial and entertainment districts (of course, First Friday Concerts, Farmers’ Markets, Parades, but also breweries, restaurants, and ax throwing).” Howard also noted that Monroe is a strong, faith-based community, with churches that are flourishing while others around the country are shrinking or dying. “From our murals, activity alleys, and parks to our boutiques, gift shops, salons, and restaurants, the love and joy brought about by being in Monroe is palpable,” he said. “I am honored and excited to serve while ending our second century and helping Monroe start our next 100 years headed in the right direction.” •WLM

Our Bicentennial year is upon us! In 1818, Monroe was founded as the seat of the newly formed Walton County, and was then incorporated as a town in November of 1821. This year we celebrate our historic 200th Birthday! Monroe has seen many major challenges, changes, and advancements to get to where we are now, and has carefully balanced that small town feel while allowing for growth as we move towards the future. Our steadfast goal is to create a city for everyone! In November of this year, join us as we celebrate the 200th Birthday of the Greatest Small Town in America! Walton Living Magazine

Walton

WORKS The ever-growing state of manufacturing in the county

By Sharon Swanepoel

espite the disruption due to COVID-19 for most of 2020, manufacturing and other forms of business in Walton County has managed to survive it well - and in some cases even struggled to keep up with increased demand. “Walton County definitely felt the impact of COVID-19. I would venture to say that in some way, every business felt the impact, some more than others. Hitachi, for example, did shut down for a period of time because they manufacture automobile parts and the automobile makers were struggling,” said Shane Short, executive director for the Development Authority of Walton County. “Others, like Walmart, were busting at the seams to try and keep up with demand. As we progressed into the year, most industries were able to get back to normal operations with the exception of a few, like Takeda. Takeda still has a number of employees working from home. However, operations are still running smooth.” Stanton Springs, the industrial park in the Social Circle area created by the Joint Development Authority of Walton, Newton, Morgan and Jasper

counties has contributed significantly to the growth of Walton County’s manufacturing industry. First with Baxter (now Takeda) then the Facebook data center and now the recently announced Project Baymare, LLC which will bring another $42 billion investment to the area. When complete, Facebook will bring about 300 jobs or more to the area and the new data center is expected to do much the same. Short said data centers, such as Facebook and Baymare, are considered light industrial and fall under the manufacturing classification. Stanton Springs, however, has pretty much reached capacity. “With the sale of property for ‘Baymare’ the JDA sold the majority of the remaining property in Stanton Springs.The remaining property doesn’t lend itself well for continued industrial development without significant land development costs. So, future industrial at the current site is extremely limited,” Short said. But that certainly doesn’t stunt the future of manufacturing in Walton County. “Right now, there are two major manufacturing strong holds, Monroe and Social Circle. I envision both

continuing to grow. However, Social Circle will become the leader in manufacturing in the future. The driving force behind this is its location directly off I-20. In addition, Social Circle has a lot of land to be developed.” In Monroe, the industrial park in development off of GA Highway 53 has already attracted a company that Short says will bring “hundreds” of jobs to the area. “The company has purchased 40 acres and does plan to build a new plant in Piedmont Regional Industrial Park. They are currently building a smaller plant elsewhere, but plans to start construction soon on the plant in Monroe,” Short said. “We are extremely excited about this manufacturer because they are an extremely ‘green’ company and will employ hundreds of employees. This company will help further diversify our industry mix and will produce a product that will be in high demand.” Short said in many ways the local manufacturing industry is key to all development in the local area. “Manufacturing is a driving force in economic development and increases our opportunities for more commercial and retail opportunities. The more we can increase our jobs and convince people to live in Walton County, the more successful commercial and retail. Retail is data driven. Retail looks primarily at demographic data. They want to know how many people live within a certain driving distance. They look at household incomes and compare that with disposable income. I always find it interesting when someone says, ‘Why don’t they get us a…?’ Well, capitalism doesn’t work that way. Retailers located where they do so that they can be profitable and they need the demographic 76 Walton Living Magazine

numbers to do so,” Short said, noting that industry also looks at demographic data, but in a differ way. “They are looking for the number of people with a certain skill set who can work at their company. Thus, the relationship with our schools systems is so important to work with them to better understand the growing needs of our workforce.” Cultivating a future manufacturing industry workforce In Walton County, Dessa Morris is the workforce development director. “Dessa has done an outstanding job with our Walton Works program which brings together through our Workforce Advisory Council the ability to connect k-12 education, our technical college, and our industries,” Short said. “Through the Workforce Advisory Council, these entities come together to plan and collaborate on how to improve our up and coming workforce.” “The Development Authority’s focus is the recruitment of advanced manufacturers to bring jobs and investment to our community. Through Walton Works we have been able to work with both local school districts to meet industry needs and prepare students for great local jobs. Local graduates are able to enter the workforce with their high school diploma and have companies pay for their future education. Or they are able to return following an undergraduate or advanced degree and find opportunities here too,” Morris said. “Our local manufacturing pathway will help students become familiar with a manufacturing environment as well as serve as a physical hub for local

We see a world of possibilities

Walton Living Magazine

industries and students to connect. In addition, each high school has a Student Success Alliance College and Career Center to further anchor the efforts to help students find, and be prepared for, great local careers.” Short said while manufacturing, commercial, and retail are all important aspects of economic development for various reasons, the Development Authority of Walton County focuses on industrial recruitment and expansion of existing industries only. The commercial and retail aspects of business are done more at the city level. “We focus on large industry. Large industries have more jobs, invest more money in facilities, and have an overall bigger impact on the local economy. Also, with me being the only economic developer, it’s hard to focus on anything other than industrial recruitment,” Short said, noting that diversity in the industrial mix is very important to the local economy. “You can be too heavily dependent on one area of manufacturing and should that portion of the economy struggle, it will affect your local economy and our people. We try real hard not to recruit companies who are direct competitors. In fact, we often ask that question to prospects.” Another reason the Development Authority focuses on manufacturing - better job opportunities in the local area. “They tend to pay higher salaries, offer better benefits, invest more in real and personal property, and they are less likely to move their operations to another community,” Short said. So it is critical to be able to offer a skilled workforce to help recruit those higher paying jobs. “The connectivity of Walton Works throughout local industries and both school systems helps each understand our current and future workforce needs and opportunities. Further, they partner to communicate effectively to prepare a better workforce. Through Walton Works, the Walton County School District has launched a new career pathway – manufacturing. Caterpillar, Hitachi, Takeda and Leggett & Platt helped develop the curriculum to ensure graduates will be ready for success,” Morris said. “The manufacturing pathway will launch August 2021. The Walton County School District has invested more than $200,000 from FY 21 and FY22 for the new pathway. Equipment is arriving nearly every week through the end of the school year. It’s an exciting time as 1 out of every 10 jobs in Walton County is a manufacturing job. In March, Walton Works partnered with WorkSource NEGA to bring the Be Pro Be Proud Georgia initiative to Walton County. Through a generous grant, the workforce workshop exposed more than 1,000 local students to Georgia’s top 15 in-demand, skilled trades with an emphasis on local opportunities.” Morris said Walton Works is hosting an educator externship this

“Manufacturing is a driving force in economic development and increases our opportunities for more commercial and retail opportunities. The more we can increase our jobs and convince people to live in Walton County, the more successful commercial and retail.” 78 Walton Living Magazine

summer where two professionals from each high school will spend a week with a local industry. “This is our third year hosting the externship program. Immediate benefits can be seen between participating companies and their involvement with their externs as the educators take the lessons learned and share them with their schools and student,” she said. In cultivating these partnerships, Morris said Walton County is preparing a stronger workforce and workforce pipeline and current as well as future industries can feel confident they have the workforce needed to be successful in this area. “According to our industries, Walton Works hiring events have been very successful. They have generated lots of activity, interest and applications for their job openings. We look forward to hosting more in-person events in the coming months. Educating our school communities on these great local job opportunities is taking a bit more time. The last week in April, companies were at each local high school to interview graduating seniors for full-time jobs starting in June. We work with the Student Success Alliance coordinators at each of our four high schools to publicize and encourage students to take advantage of the opportunity. We have eight companies confirmed for Social Circle High School and five for Monroe Area, Loganville and Walnut Grove

high schools,” Morris said. Foothills Education Charter High School, with locations on Monroe Area and Social Circle high school campuses, recently graduated several students through its WeldREADY program. Kabuta and Caterpillar were on hand to hire from the graduating class. “The majority of current industrial openings are for adults with basic skills. A person with a high school diploma or GED can thrive at any of our industries as long as they arrive on time and ready-to-work each day,” Morris said. “Successful applicants will have basic computer and math skills and be able to pass a drug test. Companies offer motivated employees the opportunity for additional education and the training needed to be promoted.” Short encourages new job seekers to seriously take a look at career paths offered through industry. “Industries are often misunderstood about various career paths. The days of old dark and dirty manufacturing facilities are a thing of the past. Today’s newer manufacturers are bright and meticulously clean. Industries like a Takeda offer so many various career opportunities,” Short said. “You don’t have to be a scientist to work there - although they do have them. Takeda also has career opportunities in management, support, logistics, safety, and the list goes on. •WLM Walton Living Magazine 79

TOP EMPLOYERS IN WALTON COUNTY Manufacturing Industry No. of Jobs Takeda 1200 Hitachi Astemo 900 Walmart Distribution Ctr 6055 880 Leggett & Platt 415 Standridge Color Corp 283 Tucker Door & Trim 260 Elite Storage 240 General Mills 186 Goodyear Tire & Rubber 157 Walton Press 132

Business Classification Biotechnology Auto Parts Distribution Box Springs/frames Color/concentrate Wholesale doors/windows Commercial storage racks Distribution Tires Commercial printer

Non-Manufacturing Walton County School District Walton County Government Piedmont Walton Walmart Store - Loganville Walmart Store - Monroe Walton EMC City of Monroe

Education Government Hospital Retail Retail Utility Government

80 Walton Living Magazine

1023 830 493 410 320 259 234

Walton Living Magazine

INDEX

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Fall-Winter Issue Preview

What’s

Abbey Hospice 83 A.C.T. Autobrokers 53 Adams Chiropractic Clinic 13 Alfa Insurance 13 American Legion Post 64 55 American Legion Post 233 29 Angel Dust Gifts & Decor 49 Barrelle Roofing 7 Blue Rooster Bake Shop & Eatery 38 Cheely’s General Store 39 City of Loganville 25 City of Monroe 73 City of Social Circle 45 Darrell Productions 59 Edward Jones 19 Faith in Serving Humanity (F.I.S.H.) 43 Freshway Market 35 On Nov. 30, 2021, Monroe will have officially been in Frog’s Pawn and Gun 19 existence as a city for 200 years. We will have a Home Store Realtors 49 special section looking back on Monroe’s rich history Johnny Knuckles BBQ 39 from 1821 to present time - and take a look through the John’s Supermarket 84 looking glass at what we can expect for the next 200 Jones Design Company (JDC) 81 years! Kellie’s Home Cooking 39 Lee’s Collision Center 17 Lori Duff 37 Mal’s Krazy Krab 38 Monroe Country Day School 67 Monroe Downtown Development 29 Photography by M & M 30 Quality Foods 35 Rinse Bath and Body 2/3 Snellville Heating • Air • Plumbing 53 Social Circle City Schools 43 Stone Mountain Pecan Company 35 Stripling’s General Store 39 Tapp Plumbing 19 We will again be publishing our annual holiday gift The Factory at Walton Mill 65 guide. This gives local businesses an opportunity to The Grill’n Station 38 showcase what they have to offer and gives local Villa Pizza 38 shoppers an opportunity to see where they can get Walton County Chamber of Commerce 17 those special gifts for loved ones without having to Walton County Development Authority 77 travel too far. Walton County Health Department 67 Walton County School District 35 Walton County Sheriff Office 55 For more information on Walton County YMCA 11 advertising opportunities in Walton EMC 5 Fall Winter 2021 Walton Living Magazine please Walton Proud 69 Magazine Advertising Deadline contact: Well Mannered 21 August 1, 2021 Melanie Ann Jackson at Wood Vision Center 37 Publication Date 404-375-7881 or Your Local News 31 October 2021 melanieann@waltonliving.com

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