Troup Trends | May 2026

LAGRANGE-TROUP COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

May 2026

F rom Here to Everywhere

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May 2026 VOLUME XIII, ISSUE II A publication of the LaGrange-Troup County Chamber of Commerce 111 Bull St./P.O. Box 636 LaGrange, GA 30241 (706) 884-8671 www.lagrangechamber.com EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Chair: Mack Reynolds Mack Reynolds Realty, LLC Past Chair: Summer Deal True North Investments Chair Elect: Adrienne Tickle Georgia Power Treasurer: Mike Gilmartin Community Volunteer Secretary: Jamey Jackson TalentKinect

CHAMBER STAFF President & CEO: Connie Hensler Director of Member Experience: Leslie Traylor

CONTENTS 4 | A Letter from the Chairman

18 | History Spotlight Memories of Meals Past

5 | Cover Story From Here to Everywhere

22 | Movers, Shakers, & Risk-Takers

9 | Cover Story Sidebar Shop Before you GO

12 | Education Spotlight Troup County Schools Honored by State Superintendent for Remarkable Growth in Literacy and Math 14 | Healthcare Spotlight Every Word Matters

24 | A Letter from the President 25 | Chamber Events 35 | Nonprofit Spotlight

A Town With a Sound

38 | Small Business

Travel With Purpose—and Enjoy the Journey

Director of Communication & Events: Christan Spires Accountant: Melanie Key, CPA Design: Christan Spires

ON THE COVER From Here to Everywhere, page 5

TO CONTRIBUTE Troup Trends welcomes your ideas.

Please send inquiries to info@lagrangechamber.com for consideration.

This publication is produced by the LaGrange-Troup County Chamber of Commerce. Reproduction in whole or part of this publication without express written permission is prohibited. All claims, materials and photos furnished or used are, to the publisher's knowledge, true and correct. Publication of any article or advertisement is not an endorsement by the LaGrange-Troup County Chamber of Commerce.

Troup Trends is published quarterly by the LaGrange-Troup County Chamber of Commerce.

Please send news items, suggestions, advertising requests and comments to:

P.O. Box 636 • LaGrange, GA 30241 lagrangechamber.com

www.lagrangechamber.com

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FROM

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CHAIRMAN

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s your Chamber Board Chair, I continue to be grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside such a dedicated and engaged business community here in Troup County.

This spring has been a busy and productive season for the Chamber, and it’s been great to see so many of our members showing up, getting involved, and making an impact.

A special thank you goes to our Programs & Events Committee for their outstanding work on this year’s ChamberMasters Golf Tournament. From start to finish, the event was a tremendous success—well attended, well organized, and a great reflection of what makes this Chamber so strong. Events like this don’t happen without a lot of behindthe-scenes effort, and we’re fortunate to have a team that delivers year after year.

We’ve also recently hosted candidate forums ahead of the

upcoming primary elections.

These forums are an important part of our role in the community, providing members and residents the opportunity to hear directly from those seeking to serve and lead. It’s one more way the Chamber helps keep our business community informed and engaged.

Our Business After Hours at the Fairfield by Marriott—also featured in this issue’s cover story—was another highlight, with a strong turnout and a great atmosphere for networking. It’s always encouraging to see our members making connections and building relationships that strengthen both their businesses and our community as a whole.

That same level of engagement has carried into our Early Bird Breakfasts, which continue to be well attended and full of valuable insights. These gatherings offer meaningful conversations and a great way to stay connected with what’s happening right here in our business community.

Success is not just about the work we do—it’s about the people we do it with. The continued energy and involvement of our members is what drives everything forward.

Thank you for your ongoing support of the Chamber and for the role each of you plays in making Troup County a great place to live, work, and do business.

Wishing you all an excellent summer,

MACK REYNOLDS

Chairman, Board of Directors LaGrange-Troup County Chamber of Commerce

Special Thanks to Our 1911 Chairman Level Sponsors!

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From Here to Everywhere

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eady, set, GO!

With the summer vacation season just ahead, Chamber members in the travel and hospitality business say one thing is certain. People are going to travel.

Even in challenging times, people who love travel are still going places.

Some local travel professionals, spearheaded by Visit LaGrange, work to bring visitors to LaGrange and Troup County destinations. Others, like travel advisors Cathy Schirra and Violeta King, make arrangements for locals to visit distant, often foreign, locations.

Whether coming or going, travel means

business. Here’s a look at what business pros say about both sides of the travel coin.

Coming There are multiple reasons for encouraging visitors to come to LaGrange, says Kathy Tilley, president and CEO of Visit LaGrange, but the bottom line is, well, the bottom line. Tourism is clean economic development.

“Tourism definitely saves residents tax dollars,” Tilley said, noting that tourism tax revenue has grown from about $1 million to $5 million in the last few years, making the hotel/motel tax the city’s second largest revenue stream. “Tourist dollars offset about $800 per year for every local resident.”

As the DMO (Direct Marketing Organization) for both LaGrange and Troup County, six-year-old Visit LaGrange promotes the city as “an authentic small city with a lot of interesting things to do” and Troup County as “a perfect balance of rest and activity with endless opportunities for outdoor entertainment and family fun.”

The most typical visitors? Families with children coming for a long weekend from a distance of 300 miles or less. The Visit LaGrange and Destination Troup web sites also include multiple suggested itineraries: girls weekend getaways, budget-friendly weekends, water-oriented recreation and even an “ultimate field trip” for kids and parents or grandparents (3 Subjects, 2 Days, 1 Tank of Gas).

www.lagrangechamber.com

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“We are not a destination for a week’s stay, like the beach,” Tilley said, “but we are ideally positioned for overnights or a long weekend visit.”

Areas of emphasis currently are sports tourism, historic tourism and a revival of motor coach tourism, which virtually disappeared during the Covid pandemic but is making a comeback. Attractions like the Biblical History Center, Hills and Dales Estate and the recently restored Mulberry Street Cemetery are ideal for that, Tilley said. Industrial plant tours, like those offered at Kia, are another draw with potential for growth.

Sports tourism, Tilley notes, is “virtually recession-proof.” She and J.J. Kuerzi of Troup Parks and Recreation attend sports trade shows to recruit and sponsor tournaments, especially those involving an overnight stay. In addition to stalwarts like Shuford and Harris ballfields, new facilities, like the Tod Tentler Sports Complex (soccer) and the Active Life and Rail District pickleball courts, create additional opportunities for tournaments.

LaGrange College and local high schools also host events in multiple sports.

Football games, tennis, baseball and wrestling tournaments, for example, regularly fill local hotel rooms.

The quality and regularity of special events directly affects hotel/motel occupancy, said Jignesh Patel, owner of the recently renovated Fairfield by Marriott as well as the LaQuinta and Baymont inns. Sweetland Amphitheater, for example, brings in business, varying with the popularity of the performers.

Multiple wedding venues, including the relatively new Oakfuskee Conservation Center, also boost hotel occupancy. So do fishing tournaments and recreational visits to West Point Lake.

A LaGrange business owner for more than 20 years, Patel said business travel is his “bread and butter” during the week, but attractions and events put “heads in beds” on weekends.

Patel said he’s optimistic about continued growth in the local hotel business, and he’s invested in it. Transformation of the former Wingate Hotel into the Fairfield Marriott involved more than cosmetic changes.

“We touched every facet of the building,” he said. With 100 rooms, the Fairfield is second only to Great Wolf Lodge in locally available beds.

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The Fairfield staff regularly refers guests to Visit LaGrange to discover what is going on locally while they are here. The business also participates in community events, like the Dragon Boat race to benefit Harmony House and a recent pickleball fundraiser.

“We’re only two months old,” said staff member Michael Parhams. “We want to grow with the community.”

In addition to providing traffic for local restaurants, stores and venues, tourism directly supports about 3,000 jobs in Troup County, Tilley said. Not all of them are high paying, but entry level jobs are important, too, and can result in advancement.

Another benefit, she believes, is

improved quality of life for locals. “If it’s good for a visitor, it’s also good for a resident,” she said. Many locations and events that attract tourists are also enjoyed by locals.

Like most fields, tourism is constantly changing, Tilley notes, and Visit LaGrange must evolve, as well.

“We’ve done a lot in our first six years, but we’ve only scratched the surface,” she said.

GOING Local travel professionals who are members of the Chamber of Commerce say the travel business is in their blood.

Cathy Schirra became a travel advisor after a career as a Delta flight attendant,

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but her interest in travel goes back to childhood. Her family was always traveling and her mother, the late Judy Boggus, worked as a travel agent when they lived in Marietta.

“It’s in my DNA!” Schirra said, laughing.

Violeta King is a native of Transylvania, an Eastern European region in what is now Romania, and worked in the hospitality industry in Europe for 15 years, mostly on river cruises and ocean liners. King met her Georgia-born husband on a river cruise in Paris. She was a manager, and he was a passenger.

“Travel changed my life!” she said.

Love of travel also came naturally to her.

“I was the child who was always looking to see what was on the other side of the hill,” she said.

A professional travel business is a community asset, Schirra believes.

“It’s very important for a town the size of LaGrange to have travel advisors,” she said.

“We can offer all the services of a larger place but with a higher level of convenience and individualized attention.”

Both King and Schirra believe it’s important to get to know their clients’ tastes, interests, budget, energy level and goals for a trip. They offer consultations, trip planning and bookings without charge.

Their compensation comes from the travel vendors.

“I am a timesaver for my clients,” Schirra said. “What might take them weeks to do on their own, I have at my fingertips. I do all the heavy lifting, the research and the planning.”

She can also help clients successfully revise the often unrealistic itineraries they find online, she said.

Having a travel pro in your corner is also a great stress reliever, King points out.

“I am your representative. If something goes wrong, any issue, I know who to call, how to ask. I handle the stressful things and remove that stress from you.”

Current trends in the travel industry include solo travel, wellness travel (spas and resorts) and multigenerational travel. It’s rewarding but takes a lot of expertise to book trips that provide accommodations and activities that work simultaneously for children, parents and grandparents.

Schirra recently helped a multigenerational group of 24 travel to a wedding in Greece.

She also worked with a family traveling to Italy with a diabetic child with celiac disease,

Photos by Cathy Schirra

www.lagrangechamber.com

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requiring a refrigerator for insulin storage and gluten-free foods. Gluten-free in pasta-loving Italy?

“It took research, but I found what they needed and even a cooking class that was gluten-free,” Schirra said.

Heritage travel is also popular, especially destination reunions, King notes, and cruise companies are building ships for river cruises that are more family friendly.

Both King and Schirra are independent contractors affiliated with travel companies.

Schirra’s company, Blue Pineapple Travel, bills itself as a boutique agency, providing small, customized and fully independent travel. The woman-owned, Mariettabased business specializes in bespoke travel with itineraries tailored to each client’s needs, budget and interests.

King’s business, Trips & Views Travel, is part of the Legato group, a Coloradobased host agency that provides backend services, benefits, negotiated supplier deals, preferred programs, training and marketing support. Her goal is to match each traveler with a travel experience that fits their style.

Being travel savvy is essential, but just part of the story. Each advisor is running a business and needs the requisite skills.

Both King and Schirra participate in conferences to meet suppliers and learn about destinations. Each takes familiarization tours – fam tours, in industry lingo- to see and experience destinations as their clients would.

The fam tours also enable them to recommend less widely known but special sites and activities that travelers might not find on their own.

King looks forward to a fam tour to South Africa later this year. Schirra does multiple fam tours each year, including a recent one to Kenya, where seeing Mount Kilimanjaro was a highlight.

“It sounds glamorous, and it IS a perk,” Schirra said, “but it’s really work. I am constantly checking out vendors and sites.”

Each likes the fact that “everyday is different,” but the real satisfaction comes when clients return home happy.

“It’s the best feeling when they tell you they had a great trip,” said King.

“I love it when I get a follow up email that says, ‘We had the best time!’” Schirra said.

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Photos by Violeta King

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Shop Before You GO

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typical shopping list for travelers contains several staples: sunscreen, favorite snacks, perhaps a good book.

But a trip is also a perfect reason to shop for new apparel, and shopping local is a great way to go.

Troup Trends asked several Chamber members to share travel wardrobe ideas from their shops.

Women’s boutiques Elliebelles, 131 Bull St., and Simon and Pine, 119 Ridley in the Colonial Building, are bursting with colorful options that are great for travel but work just as well for day-to-day wear.

“I really like sundresses,” said Leslie Martin, owner of Simon and Pine. “You can’t beat them for comfort in the summer.” She also recommends a long skirt in a pattern that lends itself to many different tops.

under control. Their assortment of quality men’s swimwear includes choices for all ages, ranging from short to longer, solid to colorfully patterned.

Co-owner Blaise Green said eye-catching print styles are especially popular with younger men. A lively print featuring flamingos and beer has been a top seller.

"Whatever you need, it’s smart to shop small and shop local," said Chamber President Connie Hensler.

“We have outstanding stores here with great merchandise and attentive staff.

You do yourself and your community a favor when you patronize local businesses.”

Simon & Pine

Solomon's

Elliebelles

“You can wear it so many ways,” she said.

“Dress it up or down.” Her collection of accessories, including distinctive necklaces and handbags, will help you do it.

Holly Hunt and Marcia Hansen of Elliebelles favor spring and summer clothes that “bring in all the sunshine.”

Travel wear, like spring and summer wear in general, should be all about fun. “Fun colors, fun patterns, fun styles,” Hunt said.

Their selection includes flowy dresses and sundresses in florals, prints and solids, plus bright-colored shorts and pants and an array of tops that are as comfortable as they are cute.

Cool and comfy summer footwear is on most travelers’ shopping lists, and Solomon’s, the venerable family-owned department store at 108 Bull St., is known for its wide selection. Whether it’s spiffy sandals, trendy flip-flops or a new pair of walking shoes, owner Patty Solomon and her staff can fix you up.

Male travelers need new duds, too, and Dapper Den, recently relocated to 2 E. Lafayette Square, has summer fashion

The Dapper Den

www.lagrangechamber.com

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May 2026

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he University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is a trusted resource for entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to start, grow, or strengthen their businesses. Designated as one of Georgia’s top providers of small business assistance, the SBDC offers practical tools, expert training, and one-on-one consulting to help businesses succeed at every stage.

With 18 offices across the state—from Rome to Valdosta—the UGA SBDC has supported hundreds of thousands of entrepreneurs since 1977, helping build a strong, statewide ecosystem for innovation and economic growth. As a Public Service and Outreach Extension of The University of Georgia, and funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration, the SBDC is nationally accredited by the Association of SBDCs— ensuring high-quality, confidential, and results-driven support.

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www.lagrangechamber.com

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Troup County Schools Honored by State Superintendent for Remarkable Growth in Literacy and Math

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By Irisha Jones

tate Superintendent Richard Woods visited Troup County recently to celebrate six district schools recognized by the Georgia Department of Education for exceptional growth during the 2024-2025 school year.

The Literacy Leader Awards are offered for both growth and achievement. Third and sixth grades are the “gateway grades” for the Literacy Leaders award.

Schools must earn at least one third or sixth grade growth or achievement award to be eligible for awards in other grade levels. Awards are also offered at the high-school level based on the American Literature EOC, which is the state test for ELA in high school.

The Math Leader Awards are offered for both growth and achievement. Fifth and eighth grades are the “gateway grades” for the Math Leaders award. Schools must earn at least one fifth or eighth-grade growth or achievement award to be eligible for awards in other grade levels.

Awards are also offered at the high-school

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level based on the Algebra: Concepts & Connections EOC, which is the state test for mathematics in high school.

Troup County Schools Superintendent Dr. Rachel Hazel credited the achievement to the relentless work ethic of educators and

students.

"This doesn't happen by accident," said Dr. Hazel. "This happens because you are intentional and it happens because you show up every single day. Even on the hard days."

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2024-2025 Award Highlights •

West Point Elementary: Achieved a massive 18.2-point growth in 3rd Grade Gateway Literacy.

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Troup High School: Earned recognition for a 15.8-point growth in High School Literacy.

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Hogansville Elementary: Honored for both 3rd Grade Gateway Growth (12.2 points) and 6.3 points in 5th Grade Literacy Growth.

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Gardner Newman Middle: Recognized for 10.8-point growth in 6th Grade Gateway Literacy.

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Hillcrest Elementary: Celebrated for a 91.84% passage rate in 3rd grade Milestones and growth across multiple grades.

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Long Cane Middle: Awarded for Outstanding Achievement in Mathematics with a perfect 100% passage rate for 8thgrade high school math courses.

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These honors highlight the district’s commitment to providing high-quality instruction and ensuring all students develop strong foundational skills for future success.

www.lagrangechamber.com

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Every Word Matters

Big impact starts with Small TALK at Wellstar West Georgia

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ellstar is committed to the health and well-being of every person we serve. That care starts early— even before a baby is born. We support expectant parents by encouraging language and connection from the beginning, strengthening a child’s longterm learning and development.

In 2022, Wellstar launched Small TALK, a pediatric literacy program designed to foster language-rich environments from pregnancy through early childhood. With support from the Callaway Foundation in 2024, the program expanded to Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center, reaching children and families in Troup County and surrounding communities.

Small TALK is more than a program. It’s an approach families can use in their everyday routines, whether at the grocery store or the playground. Research shows that early language exposure plays a key role in academic success. By third grade, children shift from learning to read to reading to learn—making these early years critical.

Small TALK empowers parents, caregivers and educators to make simple moments count through conversation. These interactions help children thrive while

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bringing together healthcare and education to better support families.

“At Wellstar West Georgia, we believe healthcare extends beyond the walls of our facilities,” said Coleman Foss, president of Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center. “Small TALK is a powerful example of our team integrating into the community to support our youngest patients. By partnering with parents at the earliest stages of a child’s development, we can begin to foster a broader vocabulary—which typically translates into greater success in school and beyond.”

Pediatric care teams at Wellstar West Georgia—along with educators from local early learning centers—are trained

by Small TALK’s pediatric literacy nurse navigators to model healthy language habits and help families incorporate them into everyday life. The program uses the TALK strategy: • Tune in to children’s interests.

• Ask questions to spark interaction.

• Lift language by introducing new words.

• Keep it going to continue conversations.

These small acts nurture a child’s cognitive, social and emotional growth while supporting early literacy in the

community.

“Every word you speak, every song you sing and every story you share is building your baby’s brain—long before birth and long after,” said Dr. Joy Baker, a Wellstar OB/GYN in LaGrange. "A language-rich environment isn’t just communication. It’s connection, nurturing development and forming strong bonds for a lifetime of learning.”

Community partnerships expand this work, bringing Small TALK to more families across Troup County.

“Callaway Foundation is proud to support initiatives that strengthen early language development and foster meaningful collaboration among early learning centers serving children and families in Troup County,” said Chad Cooper, program manager for the Callaway Foundation. “Programs like Small TALK are critical to laying the foundation for lifelong learning and ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed.”

As Small TALK continues to grow, the goal remains clear: Give every family the tools and confidence they need to build their child’s language through everyday moments. Talk, read, sing and play— every word you share helps shape your child’s future.

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www.lagrangechamber.com

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Staff posing in front of the Tasty Coffee Shop’s Main Street Storefront, circa 1950. The coffee shop was located in the Park Hotel building. Photo by Stanley Hutchinson.

MEMORIES OF MEALS PAST

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By Lewis Powell

eals and restaurant experiences are ephemeral; that is once the meal has been eaten and the bill paid, the experience will only live on in our memory. Growing up here in LaGrange, I have a storehouse of restaurant memories ranging from the taste of prime rib at Highland Country Club, the chicken Marsala at Venucci, or the spicy bite of Hog Heaven’s brunswick stew to the summer when I ate the same order (a BBQ sandwich, large stew and a large sweet tea) from Roger’s BBQ for lunch every day. Other memories revolve around the experiences surrounded by family or friends: a cast party at Mare Sol following a show at the LSPA, Tuesday night trivia with my partner at Your Pie, or lunches with my family at Katie’s.

I have always been obsessed with barbeque, in fact, my parents called me the “Barbeque King” as a child.

One of my earliest food memories revolves around the brunswick stew from Sprayberry’s Barbeque in Newnan, and to this day, I tell people I was weaned on it. My grandparents always had a few pints in their freezer, or else we would visit the restaurant if my grandmother hadn’t cooked. Still, my family always has Sprayberry’s barbeque and stew on hand

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for my family reunions. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that Sprayberry’s once had a location on Vernon Road. On 1 June 1938, Sprayberry’s opened a “barbeque stand” with a “Clean Electric Kitchen” just past the hospital. Sadly, it seems that it did not last, as no listing for it can be found in the following city directories.

LaGrange has always had a wealth of restaurants serving tourists and locals alike, especially on the Square. The earliest eating establishments we know of sprang up to support the

Postcard of the Antebellum Sims House Hotel, renamed the New Park Hotel.

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Bird’s eye view of the corner of Hines Street (now Lafayette Parkway) and Main Street as seen from the 1904 courthouse in the middle of the square. The Sterling Opera House (later Truitt Opera House) is the building on the right side of the photo. This is one of the locations where Valentine Zimmer established his restaurant. Photo by Julius Schaub. stagecoach trade. Clifford Smith’s 1933 History of Troup County notes the presence of two taverns on the square offering food and rest to the weary passengers. James Herring’s tavern operated on the corner of Broad and Church Street, where First Baptist Church on the Square now stands, while Walter P. Browning’s tavern occupied the site of the Hutchinson-Mallory Building on the south side. Nowadays, taverns are thought of as businesses serving alcohol and perhaps serving food, however, these businesses offered food and drink plus overnight accommodations, space for public gatherings, and even, in the case of Herring’s, served as a post office.

At the same time, about seven miles from the square, Mrs. Elizabeth Battle Boddie, wife of planter Nathan Van Boddie, had a large dining room constructed on the back of her home (which is still standing on Greenville Road). This 40 by 20-foot addition was to accommodate stagecoach passengers who frequently stopped at her home. Reportedly, with the help of her enslaved cooks, Mrs. Boddie made a small fortune from this endeavor.

Little is known of the local restaurant scene until the 1850s when two things happened: the opening of the Sims House Hotel and the arrival of three brothers from Bavaria. The exact year the Sims House Hotel was constructed is lost, though we know it was erected in the 1850s on the former site of Walter P. Browning’s tavern. The hotel’s restaurant went through many different iterations and managers, though perhaps it was the management of Valentine Zimmer that earned the restaurant some renown.

Valentine Zimmer was one of three brothers, born in Bavaria, who immigrated to this country and set up shop here around 1857, initially selling exotic foods and tobacco. In the difficult time following the Civil War, the brothers left for Richmond, Virginia, but Valentine returned in 1869 to reopen his store and expand his business to including dining. By 1878, he opened his restaurant in the Sterling Opera House building, just across Main Street from the Sims House Hotel. There, he began hosting Oyster and Champagne Midnight Dinners following balls held across the street.

The Sims House Hotel was later purchased by Lemuel Madison

Park who renamed it the Park Hotel.

Eventually, the City Café opened at 34 South Court Square on the ground floor of the hotel.

There is nothing to indicate exactly when the café opened, but it was owned by a trio of Greek immigrants: brothers Alex and Bill Pope, and Mike Levondes.

At this time, Greek immigrants frequently owned and operated restaurants and cafés across the country. In 1912, the owners sold the restaurant so they could return to their homeland to fight in the Balkan War, in which Greece was embroiled.

The café was sold to Alvin Powell, owner of the City Bakery on Vernon Street, who sold it in 1917 to a pair of Greek immigrants, Alex Spiro and Gus Valsamakis. Spiro died in 1920 and Valsamakis married in Greece in 1927, and it is not known how long they owned the business. The café closed sometime during World War Two.

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Ad for Sprayberry’s Barbecue from the LaGrange Daily News¸ 31 May 1938.

Interior of the Tasty Sandwich Shop, located on the Square in a space formerly occupied by the City Café. Photo circa 1950 by Stanley Hutchinson.

By 1946, the former City Café space was occupied by the Tasty Sandwich Shop, a 24-hour café serving short order food and coffee. The owners extended the sandwich shop on Court Square back into the Park Hotel to connect with their coffee shop storefront on Main Street, creating a long, L-shaped space. Unfortunately, in the early morning hours of 21 April 1953, a fire broke out in a grease-filled air vent that eventually consumed most of the building, though not before the restaurant and hotel were completely evacuated.

So, while the meal has been eaten, the dishes cleared away, and the bill has been paid, the memories of these restaurants and meals will linger on.

www.lagrangechamber.com

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Compassionate women’s healthcare means more support for all phases of life.

When life gets busy, you need a healthcare partner you can trust.

That’s why we’re here. Our world-class team of women’s health experts in West Georgia provides compassionate and comprehensive care for every aspect of your well-being.

From preventative care and puberty to support during pregnancy, menopause and beyond, we’re by your side for every step of your healthcare journey. wellstar.org/womenshealth

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Wellstar Women’s Health The women’s health team in West Georgia is dedicated to the unique needs of women in our community.

We offer comprehensive services—from routine screenings to surgery.

Our team provides dedicated care for women in West Georgia and East Alabama, supporting you from adolescence through menopause and beyond.

OB/GYN

Lauren Arcuri, DO

Michael Bakarich, DO

Obstetrician/Gynecologist

2

Obstetrician/Gynecologist

6

2

Joy Baker, MD

Brett Bowie, MD

Obstetrician/Gynecologist

Obstetrician/Gynecologist

3

2

5

Kerri Hensarling, MD

Katherine Magnuson, DO

Obstetrician/Gynecologist

2

Obstetrician/Gynecologist

6

2

Madhavi Naik, MD

Taylor Billingsley, NP

Monica Darty, NP

Stephanie White, NP

Angela Huber, CNM

1

2

3

2

1

Obstetrician/Gynecologist

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Practitioner

6

Certified Nurse-Midwife

Office Locations LAGRANGE 1 Wellstar OB/GYN 106 Lukken Industrial Drive (706) 803-7830 2 Wellstar OB/GYN 1600 Vernon Road, Suite D (706) 803-7690 3 Wellstar OB/GYN 1602 Vernon Road, Suite 200 (706) 803-7860 4 Wellstar Obstetric Emergency 1514 Vernon Road (706) 882-1411

HOGANSVILLE 5 Wellstar OB/GYN 2000 Billy Tucker Circle (706) 803-7690

WEST POINT 6 Wellstar OB/GYN 599 3rd Avenue (706) 803-7690

wellstar.org/womenshealth

www.lagrangechamber.com

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MOVERS, SHAKERS, RISK-TAKERS

MOVERS, SHAKERS, RISK-TAKERS Clark Joins LaGrange College as Marketing & Communications Director Lauren Clark has joined LaGrange College as director of marketing and communications, bringing nearly two decades of experience in brand storytelling and strategic communications.

Her background spans national and global marketing roles, nonprofit consulting, and recent work with Atomic Brand Energy in downtown LaGrange.

A longtime LaGrange resident, Clark previously led marketing efforts at Hills and Dales Estate and later launched her own consulting firm, lc, creative, serving mission-driven organizations. She earned her degree in marketing from Auburn University and lives in LaGrange with her husband and two children.

Curry Named Head of School at LaFayette Christian School

Pomerville Named 2026 Outstanding Adult Education Teacher of the Year Trisha Pomerville, an instructor in the Adult Education program at West Georgia Technical College, has been named the 2026 Outstanding Adult Education Teacher of the Year by the Technical College System of Georgia. The statewide honor recognizes her commitment to helping adult learners overcome barriers and achieve academic and career success.

Pomerville will serve as a statewide ambassador for adult education over the next year, promoting literacy and lifelong learning across Georgia.

Chong Joins Georgia Tech as APEX Accelerator Counselor Gerardo “AC” Arias Chong has joined Georgia Tech as the APEX Accelerator counselor serving the LaGrange area. He will be based at the 133 Main Street office, where he will support local businesses and procurement opportunities through the program. AC brings a background in electrical engineering and most recently worked in procurement for the City of Columbus. He joins the team with a strong mix of technical and public-sector experience to assist small businesses and contractors in navigating government opportunities.

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David Curry has been named Head of School and Chief Academic Officer at LaFayette Christian School. In his expanded leadership role, Curry will oversee academic programming as well as day-to-day school operations, helping guide the continued growth of LCS and its commitment to Christcentered education. He brings a strong background in school leadership and operations to the position, supporting the school’s mission of academic excellence, student development, and faith-based learning in Troup County.

MOVERS, SHAKERS, RISK-TAKERS

Workman Joins Troup County Schools as CFO Troup County Schools is excited to welcome Stephanie Workman as our new Chief Finance Officer. Stephanie joins the district with more than 25 years of experience serving K–12 public education. Known as a highly respected leader, she brings a unique ability to simplify complex processes and strengthen organizational systems.

College appoints Dr. Kiril Kolev as Vice President for Academic Affairs

Most recently, Stephanie served as the Executive Director for Volusia County Schools. In that role, she led districtwide strategy, workforce planning and payroll benefits for over 8,000 employees.

Throughout her career, she has been recognized for driving major improvements in leadership development and securing cost-effective upgrades to district systems.

Stephanie’s background is deeply rooted in the essential "gears" of a school district. She also brings valuable experience from the school level, having served as a Teacher on Assignment and Assistant Principal. These roles deepened her commitment to supporting educators and improving student outcomes.

Stephanie’s career began in the classroom as a mathematics teacher in Kanawha County Schools. She holds an Ed.S. and M.A. in Leadership from Marshall University and a B.S. in Secondary Education (Mathematics) from West Virginia State University. In 2023, she was honored as the Volusia Association of School Administrators (VASA) District Administrator of the Year.

Dr. Miller Selected as Program Director for Troup Trauma Collaborative Congratulations to Dr. Ellaine Miller on her selection as the Program Director for the Troup Trauma Collaborative and Resilient WEST – Troup County Coordinator.

In this dual role, Dr. Miller will lead the continued development and coordination of the Troup Trauma Collaborative while serving as the Resilient WEST coordinator for Troup County. She will help align partners, strengthen community-driven strategies, and advance trauma-responsive and resilience-building efforts throughout the county.

LaGrange College has named Dr. Kiril Kolev the Vice President of Academic Affairs, appointing an experienced academic leader to guide the institution’s academic strategy beginning June 15.

Dr. Kolev brings a visionary approach to academic leadership, with extensive experience enhancing experiential learning, modernizing curricula and integrating innovative technologies.

His work has supported institution-wide efforts to boost student enrollment, improve retention rates and increase successful graduate outcomes by enhancing the overall student experience.

Recognized as a dedicated scholar and inspiring educator, he is deeply committed to fostering faculty growth, promoting collaborative governance and using data to guide strategic decisions.

This appointment is a key part of LaGrange College’s strategic plan to foster long-term growth by expanding undergraduate and graduate programs, creating experiential learning opportunities through meaningful partnerships, and supporting faculty with effective and inclusive pedagogical practices tailored to diverse learning styles.

www.lagrangechamber.com

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FROM

THE

PRESIDENT

DEAR CHAMBER FAMILY, What an incredible start to 2026 we’ve had at the Chamber! Thanks to your support, participation, and engagement, we continue to offer programs, events, and activities that help you make the most of your membership. We are thankful for members who’ve been with us for many years, and we are excited to welcome those who have just joined us.

Your continued involvement is what makes our Chamber so strong and allows us to keep building opportunities that benefit businesses, organizations, and our entire community. From Early Bird Breakfast and Business After Hours to Safety Council meetings, our Golf Tournament, and countless ribbon cuttings, we’ve made meaningful connections and built relationships that support one another.

With spring in full bloom and summer quickly approaching, it’s the perfect time to feature travel as our cover story. We are fortunate to have so many options for exploring the world around us both far away and right here at home. Whether you plan to travel abroad or curate a fun-filled staycation, you can find everything you need to make your vacation stress-free and memorable with products, services, and resources offered by Chamber members.

Travel also reminds us of something important about community. Every

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time we choose to shop local, dine local, or support a local service provider, we are investing in the place we call home. Our Chamber members are not only helping visitors discover what makes Troup County special, they are creating the experiences, hospitality, and opportunities that make people want to live, work, and return here again and again.

As you read this issue of Troup Trends, I encourage you to look for ways to support fellow members, explore something new in our community, and take advantage of the connections that make our Chamber strong. Thank you for being an essential part of the Chamber family and for helping Troup County continue to thrive.

CONTRIBUTORS BRANDON ADAMS LaGrange Symphony Orchestra

ALEX DOMBRONOVITCHEVSKOVINSKY Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center

IRISHA JONES Troup County School System

ANDREA LOVEJOY Community Member

LEWIS POWELL Troup County Archives

CONNIE HENSLER

President & CEO LaGrange-Troup County Chamber of Commerce

PHIL WISE UGA Small Business Development Center

C H A M B E R

EARLY BIRD BREAKFAST

E V E N T S

Presented by

FEBRUARY

February Gold & Registration Sponsors

The Chamber kicked off its first Early Bird Breakfast of 2026 on February 10. Attendees heard from Brent Gibbs, General Manager of Sweetland Amphitheatre, who shared updates and celebrated the venue’s 10th anniversary.

MARCH March Gold & Registration Sponsors

At the March Early Bird Breakfast, attendees were honored to hear from Drew Ferguson, former U.S. Representative for Georgia's 3rd congressional district and current Senior Vice President of Government Affairs at Hyundai Motor Group’s Washington, D.C. office, where he leads the company’s U.S. government affairs strategy and engagement with federal and state policymakers.

APRIL

April Gold & Registration Sponsors

In April, Early Bird Breakfast was held at Highland Country Club. Attendees heard from Kelley Bush, Director of Workforce Development & Existing Industry for the LaGrange Development Authority, who shared updates on local workforce development efforts and partnerships with local schools and training programs preparing the next generation of workers in Troup County. www.lagrangechamber.com

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C H A M B E R

E V E N T S

STATE OF COMMUNITY OUR WATER

Presented by

The Chamber hosted its first State of the Community Luncheon of 2026, presented by Auto Gallery Chevrolet GMC, featuring a timely “State of Our Water” discussion focused on how water quality, safety, and sustainability impact Troup County. Panelists included Henry Jacobs of Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, Jay Jamison of the United States Army Corps of Engineers, and Terry Pike with the City of LaGrange.

Q1 & Q2 SAFETY COUNCIL Breakfast Sponsor

The Q1 Safety Council Meeting was held at the KIA Training Center. The interactive, hands-on session featured Pat Tyson of Constangy, Brooks Smith & Prophete LLP, a nationally respected safety expert and former head of OSHA, where attendees were guided through a Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) process.

Breakfast Sponsor

Q2 Safety Council featured an inside look at emergency response and the Emergency Operations Center in Troup County. Speakers included Zac Steele, Public Safety Director for Troup County, and Matthew Ferguson, Emergency Preparedness Manager at Wellstar Health System. Attendees gained insight into the EOC’s role, real-life activations, and coordinated response during emergencies.

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C H A M B E R

E V E N T S

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS The Chamber hosted its first Business After Hours of 2026 at Fairfield by Marriott on Thursday, March 19. The event included a Business After Hours and Ribbon Cutting celebrating the hotel’s transition from Wingate by Wyndham to its refreshed brand. Attendees enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of the hotel, networking, connection, and welcoming this new chapter for the local hospitality community.

WEST POINT LAKE CRUISE

Chamber’s Board Members and Diplomats recently had the opportunity to experience the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper’s Floating Classroom aboard the Miss Sally. During the trip, participants took part in handson water sampling and gained a deeper understanding of the river’s ecosystem and water quality efforts.

The group also enjoyed spotting several osprey nests, complete with babies, making for a memorable and educational day on the water.

CANDIDATE FORUMS The Chamber recently hosted Candidate Forums for the Troup County Commission Chair and Troup County School Board District 4 races. These forums provided an opportunity for community members to hear directly from the candidates, learn where they stand on key issues, and stay informed ahead of the upcoming elections.

www.lagrangechamber.com

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C H A M B E R

E V E N T S

Join us in celebrating our members!

Ribbon Cuttings, Anniversary Celebrations and Grand Openings

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Tan360 322 South Davis Road, LaGrange

Yumi Boba 12 North Lafayette Square, Downtown LaGrange

Sherwin Williams 1921 Greenville Road, LaGrange

Kia of LaGrange 1217 Lafayette Parkway, LaGrange

Shaw Law Firm 314 Greenville Street, LaGrange

First Peoples Bank 206 West Haralson Street, Downtown LaGrange

C H A M B E R

E V E N T S

Thank you to our Ribbon Cutting Sponsor

Dream Home Finders 1731 East Main Street, Hogansville

Love's Travel Stop 1621 Bass Cross Road, Hogansville

Wellstar Urgent & Primary Care 2200 Vernon Street, LaGrange

Wellstar TrueBeam2 | Enoch Callaway Cancer Center 111 Medical Drive, LaGrange

The Recycle Circus & Antique Shop 711 3rd Avenue, West Point

Little Free Pantry, City of LaGrange Youth Council Twin Cendars - Coleman Center, Lincoln Street, LaGrange www.lagrangechamber.com

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C H A M B E R

E V E N T S

Ribbon Cuttings Continued

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Batchelor Floors & More 208 East Render Street, LaGrange

Fairfield by Marriott 103 Wingate Terrace, LaGrange

Kelley Septic Services Mobile Business

Countryside Dental & Aesthetics 307 Church Street, LaGrange

Marketplace Antiques Pop-Up 700 Lincoln Street, LaGrange (inside Crave Cookie)

Safe Self Storage 41 North Cary Street, LaGrange

May 2026

C H A M B E R

E V E N T S

Hillside Art, Music, and Food Festival 614 Lincoln Street, LaGrange

Main Street Botanicals 108 Main Street, Downtown LaGrange

The Dapper Den 2 East Lafayette Square, Downtown LaGrange

La Familia Restaurant 708 3rd Avenue, West Point

Thank you to our Ribbon Cutting Sponsor

Ramirez La Familia 111 Main Street, Downtown LaGrange

www.lagrangechamber.com

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C H A M B E R

E V E N T S

On April 9th, the Chamber hosted its fourth annual ChamberMasters Golf Tournament. The event embraced the tradition of the Masters, complete with pimento cheese sandwiches and a day full of championship-worthy fun.

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C H A M B E R

E V E N T S

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS PRESENTING SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSORS

BEVERAGE CART SPONSORS Courtyard Mariott of LaGrange Urgencare Clinic

GIVEAWAY SPONSOR Stifel

BUSINESS ON THE TEE SPONSORS Acti-Kare Responsive In-Home Care Air Force Heating & Air Casa Pirul Coca-Cola Bottling United FitCo Health Club LaGrange First Peoples Bank Hamilton Lafayette Christian School LSPA Mallory Agency MJR Solutions Overboard Marine and RV Penco Restoration Wayne Davis Concrete Wild Leap Brew Co.

www.lagrangechamber.com

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N

W

O

N

P

R

O

F

I

T

A Town With a Sound

By Brandon Adams

hen people think about what makes a community feel like home, they often mention schools, local businesses, churches, and Friday-night lights. All of those matter. But there is another piece that quietly does a lot of heavy lifting: the arts. In LaGrange and Troup County, the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra has been doing that work since 1990, and I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand how much a symphony can mean in a town our size.

At its core, the LSO exists for a simple reason: to enrich our community through music by connecting with audiences, creating memorable experiences, and expanding education and performance opportunities. That mission shows up on concert nights when neighbors from every walk of life sit shoulder-to-shoulder at Callaway Auditorium, and it shows up during the week when young musicians are learning what discipline, teamwork, and confidence sound like in real time.

the LaGrange–Troup County arts scene, bringing live orchestral music to our community on a consistent basis.

Education is where the long-term impact really multiplies. Through our youth programs, students can begin as early as age five and grow all the way into advanced ensembles. Programs like String Sprouts introduce our youngest musicians to foundational skills, while Strings Attached extends that access into our local schools by putting instruments and instruction directly into the hands of students who might not otherwise have the opportunity. As students advance, the String Ensemble and the LaGrange Symphony Youth Orchestra provide structured rehearsal and performance experiences that build musical excellence alongside accountability and teamwork.

These students are not just learning notes. They are learning consistency, leadership, and what it feels like to contribute to something bigger than themselves.

Community partnerships are another way the LSO stays rooted here instead of feeling like something imported. A recent example is our 2025–2026 season opener, featuring a world premiere: Lafayette: A Hero of Two Worlds by our Music Director and Conductor, Dr. Richard Prior. Commissioned in partnership with the Lafayette Alliance of LaGrange, it connects our local history to a new work created right here, for the people who live here. That is not just culture. It is community identity told through music.

None of this happens without the people behind it: audiences who show up, volunteers who serve, and sponsors and donors who invest because they believe LaGrange deserves high-quality experiences close to home. Supporting the symphony is supporting the kind of LaGrange we all want, one where families can grow, businesses can thrive, and the arts remain an essential part of our shared life.

The symphony’s impact is often described in big, abstract terms, so let me make it practical. A concert is one of the few places left where people slow down, put the phone away, and share an experience together. That matters. A strong arts presence also supports the things our Chamber cares about most: quality of life, talent retention, and making LaGrange a place people want to visit, relocate to, and invest in. For more than 25 years, the LSO has been part of the fabric of www.lagrangechamber.com

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IN THE WITH US & GLOBAL PARTS

COMMUNITY ACTION FOR IMPROVEMENT, INC. Proudly serving our community since 1966.

WE DELIVER SERVICES AND PROGRAMS TO LOW INCOME FAMILIES:

Home weatherization services, energy stipends, Head Start, Georgia Pre-K classes, and more!

WWW.CAFI-GA.ORG 706-884-2651

CAFIINFO@CAFI-GA.ORG

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May 2026

PROUD MEMBER OF THE GEORGIA COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK

Join a health plan for small businesses in your state Enjoy a cost-saving solution providing benefits your employees want You deserve an easy, affordable way to offer high-quality healthcare to your employees. The Georgia Chamber SMART Plan (SMART) plan, available through Georgia Chamber of Commerce, offers small businesses in your state access to comprehensive healthcare benefits at rates usually reserved for larger organizations. These plans are designed specifically for businesses who are Georgia Chamber of Commerce members and include the benefits, programs, and services that reflect your local communities.

Big benefits for small business

Get peace of mind with the strength of a care network serving millions locally and nationwide  Serving millions of people in Georgia for more than 80 years  Part of the nation’s largest health benefits company  Part of the BlueCard® program through the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association which includes more than 1.7 million doctors and hospitals nationwide who contract with Blue Cross Blue Shield companies, more than any other insurer.1

1044940GAEENABS 09/22

When you join the Georgia Chamber SMART Plan (SMART) plan, your small business becomes part of a large, self-funded group that shares in the overall claims risk with other small businesses. As part of this group, you’ll enjoy the financial protection backed by Anthem’s stop loss coverage, and a flexible choice of plans designed exclusively for Georgia Chamber SMART Plan (SMART) plan participants. Lower, predictable costs and easier administration make it a great alternative to Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans, letting you focus on running your business — not your health plan.

A healthy business depends on healthy employees Along with financial peace of mind, you can offer your employees access to care through one of the nation’s largest networks of high-quality doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare professionals.

Eligible businesses also receive expanded health and wellness tools, services, and resources designed to empower your employees to make more-informed healthcare decisions that can improve health and help lower costs for everyone.

www.lagrangechamber.com

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S M A L L

B U S I N E S S

Travel With Purpose—and Enjoy the Journey

T

ravel is often dreaded as time away from work: unanswered emails, delayed decisions, and a growing to do list waiting back home. Yet this season’s focus on travel is a good reminder that stepping away—whether for business, personal reasons, or a mix of both—can strengthen a business when approached with intention. Just as important, travel should also be enjoyable. Fun and renewal are not distractions from success; they are often part of it.

The most valuable trips begin with mindset. Instead of categorizing travel as “work” or “personal,” consider what each trip might offer. Every destination presents opportunities to observe, learn, and gain perspective that are difficult to access during the routines of daily operations. Simply deciding to pay attention turns travel into a tool rather than just an absence.

Before leaving, thoughtful preparation helps ensure the business continues to run smoothly. Even a short personal trip can expose how well systems and training are working. Clear expectations, identified decision-makers, and defined

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communication boundaries reduce stress for both the owner and the team. If something breaks (or goes well) while you are away, that insight alone can be useful.

Once traveling, observation becomes one of the most valuable skills an owner can use. Hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions, airports, and retail environments all face challenges familiar to small businesses. Every business experiences staffing shortages, price sensitivity, customer flow, service recovery, and brand consistency.

Watching how others handle these challenges often sparks practical ideas that can be applied in your business.

with family, resting, and having fun all matter. A refreshed owner returns with more creativity, patience, and energy— traits that directly influence leadership and decision-making. Businesses benefit when owners are reinvigorated.

Finally, capturing ideas while traveling helps preserve the value once routines resume and consume focus. A few notes about observations, questions, or improvements can turn fleeting thoughts into real action. Scheduling time after returning to reflect and apply insights keeps momentum from being lost in the inbox.

Distance from the office also creates space to think strategically. Without constant interruptions, many business owners find clarity around what is working, what isn’t, and what needs to change. This perspective shift is often one of travel’s greatest benefits. It’s easier to plan long-term when you’re not standing in the middle of the day-to-day.

As businesses in Troup County continue to grow and adapt, travel remains a powerful advantage—not because of where it takes you, but because of what you bring back. Whether the trip is across town or across the country, for work or for fun, travel approached with curiosity and balance can strengthen leadership, sharpen operations, and renew perspective.

At the same time, it’s important not to turn every trip into an obligation. Travel should include room for enjoyment.

Trying new experiences, spending time

This season, consider how you travel—but also remember to enjoy it. The best trips often improve both the business and the person running it.

www.lagrangechamber.com

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