THRIVE | Issue 6 | Winter 2020

A Quarterly Business Publication of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber

Issue 6 | Winter 2020

THER BETTER TOGE Family ty un Coweta Co ites the Connection unity commun PLAY BALL! ts and Proposed spor promises e nu ve n recreatio d versatility excitement an ES OF LEADING LADI R BE THE CHAM first es at br le ce r Chambe ith Sm e yc Jo , air female Ch

THE STATE OF

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F E AT U R E S Cont ent 6 Letter to the Reader Dare to Dream Big

8 Better Together

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Coweta County Family Connection unites the community

15 The State of Real Estate in Newnan-Coweta An influx of new residents is changing the landscape of the real estate market

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Winter 2020

5

DARE TO DREAM BIG LETTER TO THE READER SUSAN M. KRAUT VICE PRESIDENT OF STRATEGY AND OPERATIONS NEWNAN-COWETA CHAMBER

T

H E new year is off to a great

start, and we’re optimistic about the exceptional opportunities that a new decade presents. We are very excited to expand upon Vision 2020 in launching a year-long process as we develop the next segment of our vision, embracing a theme of “Dare to Dream Big!” This journey will feature many opportunities to hear from and engage diverse voices – both in the Chamber and throughout our community - to identify problems that need solving, to seek out root causes, to begin identifying solutions, and to create opportunities to innovate.

This marks the onset of our 2030 Dream Big visioning initiative.

Having learned a great deal from our hosts in Greenville, SC during our InterCommunity Leadership visit, we’re inspired and invigorated. Having also absorbed a lot from our 2019 transportation public engagement series, we’re more dedicated than ever to collaborate with key stakeholders and take our message to the community where it matters most.

Our mission is to champion continued economic prosperity for our members and, as such, we intend to envelop the unique aspirations of business and industry, small businesses and emerging local leaders in the ongoing dialogue.

After all, we are better together.

As we settle into the new year, you’ll see the Chamber enmeshed in the fabric of the community, whether at the helm of public engagement and info sessions or as a participant in local events and celebrations. We may even ask you to weigh in on your “Dream Big” vision for 6

our community. Don’t be shy – tell us what’s on your mind!

The impact and influence of the Chamber in shaping the future of Coweta County are directly related to you and we hope that each of you understands how much you are appreciated. Thank you for your investment in our mission. We appreciate your partnership as we work collectively for the greater good of Coweta. ......

You’ll notice that this issue of THRIVE is a bit different than the previous, and we’re excited to seize this opportunity to tell the Chamber story by combining our winter issue with the Chamber’s Annual Report. We hope that you appreciate the opportunity to learn about the tremendous impact and influence of the Chamber in the 2019 calendar year and that you enjoy this short trip down memory lane as we revisit those efforts that most closely align with our mission. From graduating the first class of GA CATT apprentices to celebrating emerging trailblazers in the commencement of the 24th class of Leadership Coweta, the Newnan-Coweta Chamber marks an incredible year in our 72-year history.

Each new year presents more significant ideas, broader ingenuity, and the increased participation of some of Coweta’s biggest talents. There’s no telling exactly where we might go from here, especially in a community as dynamic as NewnanCoweta, but we know for sure that the potential is BIG.

Susan Kraut

PUBLISHER Newnan-Coweta Chamber EXECUTIVE EDITOR / CREATIVE DIRECTOR Susan M. Kraut susan@newnancowetachamber.org SALES & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Colleen D. Mitchell colleen@newnancowetachamber.org

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Susan M. Kraut, Newnan-Coweta Chamber Paul Lewis, Luz Design Nikki Rich, Rich Graphics, Inc. PUBLICATION LAYOUT Nikki Rich, Rich Graphics, Inc. CONTRIBUTORS Carla Cook-Smith Melissa Dickson Jackson Susan M. Kraut Larisa Mitchell Scott PHOTOGRAPHERS Keith Brazie, Pork Pie Pictures Linda Edmonds, Portraits by Linda E. Katie Stepp, Newnan-Coweta Chamber

TO CONTRIBUTE: THRIVE welcomes your ideas. Please send queries to Susan M. Kraut at susan@newnancowetachamber.org for consideration.

THRIVE is published quarterly. Neither the Newnan-Coweta Chamber nor THRIVE is responsible for unsolicited material. Such material will become the property of THRIVE and is subject to editing and digital use.

Reproductions of this publication in part or whole is prohibited without the express consent of the publisher.

THRIVE is available at various locations throughout Coweta County. You can also email info@newnancowetachamber.org to request a copy.

A Quarterly Business Publication of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber 23 Bullsboro Dr. | Newnan | 770.253.2270 susan@newnancowetachamber.org

Winter 2020

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • SALES & SERVICE

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Written By

Larisa Mitchell Scott

Better Together COWETA COUNTY FAMILY CONNECTION UNITES THE COMMUNITY, FOR THE COMMUNITY It’s a frosty December morning before Christmas, but Carol Prince isn’t interested in discussing what Santa may bring. Prince, Executive Director of Coweta County Family Connection, wants to talk about an important day following the holidays and the magic that day will bring for hundreds of Coweta County school children at the RePack the Backpack and Resource Expo.

On January 9, 2020, scores of local businesses and organizations convened at Newnan’s Central Educational Center to distribute such basics as pens, pencils, paper, markers, crayons, binders, sharpies, calculators, and more as students prepare for the second half of the school year.

As school supplies, once new and plentiful in the fall, fade and grow scarce, the Resource Expo gives students and their families a leg-up on replenishing their supply. Ultimately designed to give students in need a boost and to see them through the academic school year, this mid-year windfall is made possible by CCFC’s legion of partners.

For the second consecutive year, The Newnan-Coweta Chamber has supported Coweta County Family Connection via the Chamber’s annual Winter Wonderland BIGExpo — now in its 25th year — and the Delta Community Credit Union Giving Tree.

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Winter 2020

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Garnet Reynolds (BB&T) and Carol Moore (Newnan Centre) represent Newnan’s Rotary Club

L to R: Carol Prince, CCFC Executive Director; William Atkins, The Salvation Army, CCFC Vice Chair; Amanda Camp, CASA, CCFC Secretary; Ruth Scott, Coweta County School System, CCFC Board Member; Marie Geter, Cambridge House, CCFC Chair; Sandra Strozier, Housing Authority of Newnan, CCFC Fiscal Agent; Carol Hovey, CCFC Board Member; Amanda Young, CCFC Past Chair; Mark Whitlock, CEC, CCFC Sponsor; Marie Vielot, Coweta Public Library System, CCFC Board Member

IN EXCHANGE FOR A SCHOOL SUPPLY DONATION, ATTENDEES MAY PARTICIPATE IN THE HIGHLY TRAFFICKED BUSINESS EXPOSITION AT NO COST. These supplies have significantly increased the mass and variety of items available to students. And, while it may feel a bit like Christmas

The Delta Community Credit Union is front and center with a storehouse of colorful binders

when students make their

through

receive immediate advice or valued resources…

the CCFC expo, an

way

on the spot. Law enforcement, local business and

underlying for the

goal

is

industry, healthcare, and faith-based organizations

families

in

participate in a festive atmosphere with ice cream, a

attendance

to

meet

live DJ, games, and giveaways.

a variety of service providers in Coweta.

Further,

these

providers unique to

enjoy

a

opportunity

network

before

guests arrive.

Coweta County Family Connections is part of Georgia Family Connections, a state-run entity funding chapters in all 159 Georgia counties with the same annual financial commitment. In Coweta, CCFC does the work of streamlining and enhancing communication between partners, which include public agencies, nonprofits, civic and faith-based

Guests and attendees

organizations, local government, family, youth,

gain

valuable

and consumers. CCFC established in 2010 with a

on

focus on teen pregnancy prevention, subsequently

everything from pre-

steering toward unemployment and education, then

school to college to

to poverty and the initiative to enroll preschoolers

employment

and

in Head Start programs. Now ten years later, Prince

training.

and the CCFC executive board, along with partners,

cases,

pull together an impressive variety of resources

attendees may even

to help struggling Coweta families become self-

information

job In

10

skills some

Winter 2020

The Summit Family YMCA offers ample programs for Coweta families and children of all ages

sufficient. This is accomplished, in part, by providing a guide with a smorgasbord of programs and services procured from local entities that work with CCFC and exist to uplift families making their way toward stability.

The guide, produced every other year, is chock full of resources and made available both in print and online under the tab “Resources” at coweta.gafcp.org.

PARTNER ENGAGEMENT IS THE BEDROCK OF CCFC, AND THESE PARTNERSHIPS PACK A POWERFUL PUNCH IN THE FIGHT FOR COWETA FAMILIES. John

Heywood,

an

English-born

writer

and

playwright, figured out long ago that collaboration and teamwork are far more effective than people toiling independently, an island unto themselves. He

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coined the phrase, “Many hands make light work,” which could be the unspoken motto for CCFC. Ten years in the making, the network of CCFC partners is impressive and all are invited to a monthly meeting to discuss community initiatives, establish connections,

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brainstorm, identify a need, support the community, share resources, and more. “We get everyone to the table and talking,” says Prince. “The place to get plugged in and connected is at the meeting,” she continues.

Prince encourages anyone interested to join the monthly meetings, which average around fifty in attendance —and growing, — representing a variety

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HAVING GROWN FROM 12 MEMBERS IN 2010 TO NOW OVER 450 IN 2019, THE MEETAND-CONFER ORGANIZATION PERSONIFIES THE NOTION THAT WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER. “It’s so simple,” says Prince, “Through networking and building community partners, we seek to get people the help and resources they need.”

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13

THE STATE OF

REAL ESTATE

IN NEWNAN-COWETA WRITTEN BY M.D. JACKSON PHOTOS BY CARLA COOK-SMITH

Winter 2020

15

A

n influx of new residents from around the state and across the country have discovered Newnan and Coweta County.

They want to take advantage of its proximity to the Interstate 85 and Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. As a result, Newnan and Coweta seem to be in the midst of a population and housing expansion—maybe explosion—due primarily to their appeal as commuter bedroom communities.

While figures differ between 60% and 75% depending on whom you talk to, a Georgia Tech survey in 2012 indicated that 72% of Coweta’s residents commute to work, making easy access to efficient transportation essential to community growth and continued prosperity. According to Trae Westmoreland at the Coweta County Development Authority, these figures put Coweta well into the defining range of a “Bedroom Community.” That range would be anything above 45%. Coweta’s growth as a bedroom destination is unlikely to stop anytime soon as metro Atlanta real estate prices continue to push home buyers toward more affordable communities.

According to the CCDA, Coweta currently has a population of 141,554, with projected growth to 153,160 by 2022. As a result, Coweta is the 49th fastest growing county in the United States, a country that 16

includes 3,007 counties. That puts Coweta in the top 2% of counties nationwide for growth. Even more startling, a recently-released Atlanta Regional Commission report estimates that the population of Coweta will expand to 214,836 by 2050, “an increase of 76,609.”

In response to this demand, many land and homeowners have decided to sell or develop properties. Property owners certainly have that right, but the transition from more rural vistas to densely populated subdivisions strikes many community members as overwhelming and perhaps threatening. Online articles in the Newnan Times-Herald are often flooded with disgruntled comments like: “Why do we need so many new developments? MoneyHungry” or “Already a million houses going up here...screw that.”

Other residents worry that lower-income families, many of whom have lived in the community for generations, can no longer afford to maintain or find homes in Coweta. Some argue that new apartment Winter 2020

Newnan’s least costly rental at the time of this research (a freestanding 1,000 square foot home in West Newnan available for under $1,000) has multiple pending applications. Over the summer, MyRentSource reported 362 applications for 38 units available in the $925-$1500 bracket. (fig. 1)

80

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35

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25

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Fig. 1

< $2,001

$1,501 - $2,000 2,000 2,00 00 0 0

ES

ES

ES

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$1,251 - $1,500 ,50 500 0

It certainly seems true that less expensive homes and apartments are hard to come by, whether a consumer is buying or renting.

$1,000 - $1,250 1 250 1,25 550 0

In Newnan, three new apartment complexes are under development representing hundreds of new rental opportunities for the commuting demographic. However, the rental price points compete with mortgage costs. For example, at the newly developed Promenade at Newnan Crossing East, a 577-square-foot studio rents for over $1,000.

For a $1,000 mortgage, a home buyer with a 30year mortgage and a 4% interest rate could afford a $200,000 home, if there were any available.

RENTAL HOMES UNDER $1,000 PER MONTH ARE HARD TO COME BY IN NEWNAN-COWETA

> $1,000

complexes might fill that niche for affordable housing for consumers such as millennials and retirees who want homes with less square footage and fewer maintenance obligations.

ES

0

18

M HO

ES

40

M HO

The chart above illustrates the currently available apartments organized by rental bracket. The lowest available price point is for a 1-bedroom unit at $699. Most of the recently approved and under-construction units will be in the upper brackets, including 577 square foot studio apartments listed at over $1,000 per month.

Despite the general disinterest of millennials in homeownership, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to imagine that they will continue to turn their backs on the opportunities of owning property.

Historically, homeownership provides the most significant potential for the development and transfer of wealth. For many Americans, especially those in the lower- and middle-income brackets, the value of a home is their only retirement or legacy asset. The American Dream, as it is commonly realized, depends on the opportunity to afford and invest in property.

The demand and the scarcity of both rental homes and starter or mid-range homes are not likely to change, given current trends in Newnan and Coweta.

Winter 2020

17

CURRENT RESIDENTIAL SINGLE-FAMILY HOME LISTINGS BY PRICE, JANUARY 2020

22 46 105 $109 - $150 $150K $200K

$200 $250K

182

165

$250 $300K

$300 - $350K

199

$350 - $400K

98

$400 - $450K

69

$450 - $500K

According to the US Census Bureau, the median household income in Newnan-Coweta is $70,000. Judging by Zillow’s mortgage affordability calculator, only 6.2% of the houses on the market in Newnan-Coweta today would be in the price range of these families.

Fig. 2

The median sold price of a home in December of 2016 was just under $200,000. In November of 2019, it was $258,000. That’s an increase of nearly 30% in two years. In contrast, the national median home sold is a three-bedroom, two-bath home for $222,000.

According to the US Census Bureau, the median household income in Coweta County is $70,000, and $60,995 in Newnan. By Zillow’s mortgage affordability calculator, a Newnan family with $500 to $1,000 in other debt obligations (think student loans), able to make a down payment of $10,000, can afford a home in the $130,000 to $190,000 range. Of the 390 homes listed in Newnan, 6.2% meet that description. That’s 24 homes. (Fig. 2)

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According to statistics on Environics Analytics, of the 15,083 households in Newnan, well over half fall in the under 100k income bracket.

The bulk of those falls well below the income range necessary to be eligible for loans to buy homes in the current market. (Fig. 3) One local business owner described it as a “Catch 22.” She rents a modest home for $1,400 a month that she would prefer to spend buying a home, but the current market and the complications of business revenue, and its tax implications, make it increasingly difficult to show enough income to qualify for a home loan.

According to the National Association of Home Builders, a one thousand dollar increase in the price of a “median-priced new home will price 127,560 U.S. households out of the market.” It’s hard to estimate the local implications of that statistic, but there’s little doubt that a 60-thousand dollar increase in the median sales price has priced hundreds of local families out of the market for sales and rentals.

272 A Bullsboro Dr., Newnan GA 30265 770.683.6375 18

According to the Coweta County Development Authority, scouts for incoming industry rarely consider the need for worker housing when Winter 2020

they examine communities. “They want to see executive housing,” says Trae Westmoreland. This may help to explain why homes in the 300-500k range are more likely to be under development. Another reason may be Newnan and Coweta’s current zoning restrictions, which encourage low density and the development of more expensive housing. For example, Coweta zoning requires 1.6 to 5 acres per dwelling contingent on the building specifications. With higher land values, builders recoup costs by building higher price point homes.

According to one local real estate professional, builders aim to keep lot costs at no more than 16-18% of the finished sale price. For example, a three-acre lot in Blalock Lakes for $90k would require a $500,000$600,000 home to meet that ratio. It’s also true that construction costs have escalated as the housing economy has rebounded from the 2008 recession.

One question community leaders may need to address is whether Newnan and Coweta also want to be home to the people who serve the industries and businesses here: the teachers, wait staff, retail clerks, clerical workers, and manufacturing specialists whose incomes can’t compete with those of commuting executives.

2019 HOUSEHOLD INCOME City of Newnan

Coweta County

Atlanta MSA

MEDIAN INCOME $63K

MEDIAN INCOME $77K

MEDIAN INCOME $68K

28% INCOME >$100K

36% INCOME >$100K

33% INCOME >$100K

The bulk of Newnan-Coweta households fall well below the income range necessary to be eligible for loans to buy homes in the current market.

Fig. 3

Winter 2020

49 Newnan Station Drive Suite D, Newnan, GA • 678-673-6161 NewnanGA.CBDrx4u.com 19

In the meantime, professional real estate sites continue to list Newnan and Coweta as a hot seller’s market with home prices trending up year after year at a rate of 3.9%. The median time on the market in the 30263 zip code is 74 days, while the median time on the market in zip code 30265 is 61 days.

Nationally, the typical home sits on the market between 65 and 93 days (according to Zillow.com).

In 2010, just after the housing recession, homes typically sat for upwards of 140 days.

For a generation or more, local citizen leaders have said that they wanted to build a community that would encourage their children to return following advanced education. It seems like they’ve accomplished the goal, but it’s no longer an affordable option for most young adults. As one leading real estate professional confessed, “We take them to Hogansville. Even Grantville is out of range now.”

While established local families value the generational experience of living in a community with historic homes and regional mythology, the hard reality of real estate in Newnan and Coweta is that many of Coweta’s new buyers and renters don’t necessarily value what the established multigenerational community values. That conflict is playing out in city council and zoning board meetings.

Many of Newnan and Coweta’s new residents value convenience to the highway and the airport. They value perceived affordability in contrast to their prior home regions. While they may find the 1904 courthouse charming, they aren’t buying a home because of the court square or the historical society.

They want amenities like the LINC system, bike trails, interior finishes, and convenience. Balancing the growth of the community with the maintenance of historic charm and affordability for the children and grandchildren of the people who earn their livings and raised their families in Newnan and Coweta may be a priority that local leadership can’t afford to ignore.

20

Winter 2020

LOCAL REALTORS RESPOND TO QUESTIONS ABOUT THE HOUSING MARKET IN NEWNAN-COWETA Q: What kind of housing is most popular in the sales market in Coweta right now?

A:

Realtor 1: “New construction with open kitchens in the $300k - 400k range.”

Realtor 2: “The housing that has the most demand from buyers is in the $150k-250k range. These price points have shorter market time and very strong ratios of sales prices to list prices.

45% of the new homes range from $300-400k.These homes are typically larger, averaging 3,000 square feet, with many falling under the Craftsman style of home.”

Realtor 3: “Buyers are more savvy due to internet research.

They are looking for more custom details in homes.”

Realtor 4: “Farmhouse is gaining a lot of steam lately but I’d say Craftsman is still the most popular.”

Q: What shifts and trends do you see in the market?

A: Realtor 1: “Smaller lot sizes, smaller square footage, higher

density with amenities and lots of green space.”

Realtor 2: “I am seeing more and more people opting to renovate their current homes. The market is still strong for sellers and a good interest rate environment for buyers, pushing prices higher. The problem for sellers seeking to take advantage of the equity they’ve accumulated in their current home is that once they sell, they become a buyer. As a buyer, they have to change their mindset and pay the same top dollar they likely received.”

Realtor 3: “Buyers are looking for quality construction and amenities rather than more square footage in a home and are not interested in huge yards to take care of.”

Realtor 4: “The market is showing no signs of a dip. We are in a seller’s market - less than six months. A seller’s market is usually an indicator that the market is good and interest rates are very low.”

Q:

Are there types of property that you have difficulty locating, but that are in demand by consumers?

A:

Realtor 1: “It is hard to find homes in the $175k -225k range.”

Realtor 2: “The entry-level, or what many consider a starter home, has been difficult and highly competitive for years. I would consider this price point up to $250k, but usually under $200k, which is what the larger portion of the population is looking for. In the last six months, 527 homes sold between $150-250k. Currently, there are only 10 new constructions available for purchse in Coweta County - just 5.81% of the 172

new homes on the market. The reason this is so concerning to me is that the vast majority of buyers are purchasing older homes and are more vulnerable to a large expense like needing to replace an HVAC or a roof. They are also not able to take advantage of the newest, most efficient materials.”

Realtor 3: “Anything under $200K that is move-in ready. Also, homes for our 55 plus buyers that want nice appointments with small lots that are not over $350K.” Realtor 4: “Homes under $250K are hard to come by and are in high demand. Buyers seem to be leaning toward turn-key properties and shying away from fixer-uppers.”

Q:

If you could advise the community leaders of Newnan and Coweta County, what would you want them to know?

A:

Realtor 1: “Update your perspective on growth and realize our unique geographical location, educational reputation, medical services which are all highly desired - and people want to live and work here. The access to the interstate, world’s busiest airport and Savannah’s port will continue to drive interest. Smart growth is a must. Visit other cities and counties who did things right and those who did not. Invest in expanding our sewer capacity so smart growth can occur.”

Realtor 2: “The community leaders should consider where our job growth is, what our median household income is and what the housing profile needs to be to serve it properly. They must do a better job of educating the public that NO is not a solution. The city and county need to consider ways to utilize infrastructure and resources to allow for growth that meets the needs of the growing population. Both the county and city have been very open to developments for the 55 and older demographic, but have seemingly taken an opposite approach to young families through zoning ordinances and subdivision requirements that eliminate the ability to deliver affordable single-family housing. The result is that we have become a highly desirable market for new apartment developments which look to take advantage of those, many of whom would buy if they could find the right home, but must rent when they fail to find a suitable home they can afford.”

Realtor 3: “In many cases, the community leaders have the vision of Coweta’s unique attributes in education, medicine, etc. but perhaps more effort should be expended on educating the public of the advantages to them.”

Realtor 4: “I would let them know they are doing a great job, and the community appreciates them. My advice would be at the rate we are growing, we need to come up with solutions for the traffic before it gets worse.”

PLAY BALL ds Toward the Big Leagu Newnan Hea es WRITTEN BY CARLA COOK-SMITH

22

Winter 2020

ollowing a study of recreational options considered to enhance quality of life, Newnan city officials were approached in late 2019 by Newnan Grand Slam, LLC about a public-private partnership to develop a recreational venue near the intersection of Newnan Crossing Boulevard and Diplomat Parkway. The mixed-use development currently named the Newnan Entertainment and Sports District (NEST) would encompass 14 acres of city land and hold 2,500+ seats. According to Assistant City Manager Hasco Craver, the target time to open NEST is spring or summer of 2021. Public input regarding the project received in meetings on January 14 and 16 would inform an official full-council vote on January 28th.

Hasco relates, “The City of Newnan has looked with laser-like attention for projects which would add to the quality of life here. A few years ago, city officials looked at tourism development via a sports project with rectangular fields that would bring traveling teams to our area. The city pivoted on that idea because the options were not great. Amphitheaters are primarily used for performing arts and concerts. Rectangular fields are limited to football, lacrosse, and soccer. A multi-use facility lends itself to variety, and the uniqueness of the proposed facility is that it allows for a variety of uses which include multiple sports, festivals, concerts and special events. An investment in recreation makes sense for our community.”

On the public side of the partnership, the Newnan Development Authority would be responsible for grading the land and the construction of the facility, owning the facility over time, which would positively impact economic development through the leasing of both the land and the building.

On the private side, Newnan Grand Slam LLC would operate the facility, contracting with third parties for special events, maintenance, and sporting team owners. Craver notes that “The city would not be responsible for those things. The tenant would pay us rent on a lease, and that money would offset the debt that we would incur on the facility.”

Atlanta based RCS Productions, which has supported the development of the Southern Ground Amphitheater and Suwanee Town Center Park, would work with the city and Newnan Grand Slam to bring entertainment to Newnan’s potential new recreational venue. An additional eight-andone-half acres next to the NEST could serve as a counterpart to the development with residential units and retail, including a brewery and restaurants.

Considering the development of NEST, Newnan has the potential to cultivate a team for participation within the Coastal Plains League (CPL). Two of the fifteen teams on CPL’s current roster are in Macon (Bacon) and Savannah (Bananas), with other teams nearby in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. The original Coastal Plains League formed in 1937 and operated through 1952, with a hiatus during World War II. The league was revived in 1997 to support the popular past time in the southeast. Well-known baseball icons like Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, and Cal Ripken, Sr. came up through the ranks via the CPL. Could it be that Newnan has the next Babe Ruth right in our backyard?

The publication of this issue of THRIVE preceded the vote, but we printed with optimism that community members will embrace this exciting proposition, and the vote will pass.

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LEADINGof theLADIES Chamber NEWNAN-COWETA CHAMBER’S FIRST FEMALE BOARD CHAIR

1986 POISED & PRETTY

Joyce Cleveland Smith has

WRITTEN BY CARLA COOK-SMITH About a year ago, we published the Winter 2019 issue of THRIVE, with a focus on the leading ladies of the Chamber, all who have served as Board Chair in recent decades. Not included in this piece was the Chamber’s very first female chair, as circumstances were not conducive to gathering the information needed to best tell the story of the woman behind this incredible accomplishment.

The stars have since aligned, and we’re pleased to offer a profile of one of Coweta’s most beloved residents and contributors, Mrs. Joyce Cleveland-Smith.

pioneered

several business positions as the “first female” throughout her career, which began at age 40 after raising her four children as a stay-at-home mom.

The daughter of C.H. and Dovie Cleveland, Joyce, was raised as a

In those bygone days, trees lined

proper young lady with impeccable

the dirt streets of Senoia, and Joyce

manners.

A petite blonde with a

rode her bicycle all over town, often

winning smile, she attended Auburn

making her way to Kate Addy’s, which

University after high school and later

was a popular gathering place for

graduated from Draughn’s Business

friends. The Addy family sold local

School in Atlanta.

provisions but were better known for their tasty hotdogs decorated with

A longtime resident of Senoia, Joyce’s father served as the railroad agent of the Central of Georgia in Senoia.

Her mother stayed at home with

Joyce as depicted with her bridesmaids the day of her wedding.

finely chopped onions, pepper, and

Joyce has maintained an active interest

mustard, placed into buns freshly

in her community, taking over Frank

sourced

copper

Hollberg’s seat as Chair for the Senoia

steamer that sat on the store counter.

Downtown Development Authority

from

the

large

as well as serving on the board of

the children and sometimes allowed

housing

and

zoning

committees.

them to roll up the rugs at their home

The Senoia beauty later married

on Pylant Street so that they could

William C. Smith and made her home

practice

in

with him in Senoia, where she became

anticipation of weekend gatherings.

a mother to Skipper, Dodie, Debbie

Joyce recalls, “Large crowds gathered

and Nerine. The Smiths purchased

for Friday night dances on Main

the former home of Meyer Goldberg

Street in the 1940s. Sometimes there

who served as special prosecutor for

When Mrs. Smith re-entered the

was a band, and sometimes we played

the John Wallace trial relating to the

workforce at Southern Mills, Inc.

the Nickelodeon (nickel jukebox).”

Winter 2020

murder in Coweta County.

after raising her children, she became

dancing with

friends

Senoia Baptist Church is Mrs. Smith’s church home for which she has been a dedicated member, serving on a variety of committees and boards.

25

the first woman elected to a seat on the Executive Board of the Georgia Textiles Personnel Association.

During her 30-

year tenure at Southern Mills, Joyce rose through the ranks and retired as the Corporate Purchasing Manager.

In 1986, Joyce became the first

woman

president

of

to

serve

as

the

Newnan-

Coweta Chamber. In her role with the Chamber, Joyce was instrumental

in

bringing

Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation

(YMMC)

to

Newnan. Established in 1986, YMMC began manufacturing golf

carts,

vehicles off-road

ATVs,

and

selected nationally as a pilot state.

Through

Main Street, the public and private sector developed

cohesive

partnerships,

which

would work together toward the preservation and re-development of Newnan’s downtown commercial district.

water

recreational

vehicles.

Joyce as depicted at the Rainbow Room in Atlanta – left -with her mother Dovie Cleveland. Her sisters Jane, Libby and Nerine are pictured at right]

In 2009, Joyce was chosen as one of Senoia’s

During

“Women of Significance” and graced the

Main

cover of Senoia Perspectives, a popular book

Street Newnan program was

with uplifting stories about Senoia now in its

established after Georgia was

eleventh printing.

that

same year,

the

Joyce is well-liked and respected in the Senoia community and, at the age of 92 remains a kind, gracious hostess and a true, southern lady.

Innovative. Impeccable.

Imaginative.

Founded 1992

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26

Winter 2020

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When Karen was diagnosed with breast cancer, she wanted to start treatment as soon as possible. That’s why she chose Cancer Treatment Centers of America® (CTCA). Karen’s team of doctors, nurses and therapists offered her the urgency and expert care she was looking for, with a personalized plan that treated her cancer and her side effects.

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Philanthropy

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apartment living unprecedented in Newnan.

The self-described “Social Golf League” is swinging into their 6th season as they seek to grow their skills while building meaningful relationships with one another. Following instruction or 9-hole play, league members kick back and network in a relaxed and informal manner, aspiring to help women learn the game.

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While involvement in the league is open to all who are interested, participation is not free of charge. Rather than profit from the endeavor, however, the Golf Life Ladies are content to donate revenue to the benefit of a local non-profit at the commencement of each season. Many members of the league affirm that learning golf, establishing new contacts, and contributing to the community offers an irresistible combination in motivating them to join.

Each year after careful consideration and a voting process that includes presentations from various non-profits, Golf Life Ladies reveal their choice of one upon which to bestow a sizable financial donation. In 2019, Meals on Wheels of Coweta (MOWOC) became the latest beneficiary in a growing roster of local charitable organizations, receiving a healthy contribution of $15,000.

Offering assistance to citizens 65 and over who are struggling to live independently in their homes, this well-established nonprofit offers hot, home-delivered meals, handyman services, comfort visits to encourage and boost morale, and help with pets. Because of frailty, disability, or illness, many disadvantaged seniors are unable to prepare meals for themselves or complete simple home repairs and resolve problems such as a sick pet.

MOWOC currently serves 154 senior households within the county, accomplished through the hard work of 5 part-time employees and over 200 volunteers who lend their time and energy to making deliveries and offering other assistance.

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Cynthia Bennett, chair of Meals on Wheels of Coweta, praises Golf Life Ladies for their decision to give generously to the non-profit. “We are grateful to Golf Life Ladies and particularly appreciate the fundraising efforts of their “Tournament O’ Fun,”

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says Bennett. “As a result of the Golf Life Ladies gift, over 3,000 nutritious hot meals will be delivered to seniors in need.”

Meals on Wheels of Coweta currently serves up roughly 38,000 meals per year in Coweta County. Because of an increase in community support, the non-profit continues to grow from 80 homebound citizens to more than 150 enrolled for assistance in the program today. Bennett went on to say that “The financial gift from Golf Life Ladies is the perfect example of what one group of aware and concerned citizens can do to make a difference in our community.”

Over the past six years since the group initiated their fundraising efforts, the Golf Life Ladies charitable coffer adds up to a total of $95,000. Samantha Brazie, a co-founder of the group, says, “The ladies in our league contribute to a great cause for six months out of the year. This donation is a reflection of amazing sponsors and members of the community who want to make a difference.”

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Winter 2020

Think Beyond

that continues to grow in participation and funds raised each year. Golf Life Ladies acknowledges that their efforts would not have the impact that they do without the generous support of their sponsors, volunteers, and participating players.

Kim Melhouse-Guerra, a co-founder, also expresses appreciation for the external community support and acknowledges that this is the key to much of their fundraising success.

If you would like to learn the game of golf and make connections in a fun and low-pressure environment while fundraising for worthwhile local non-profit, email golflifeladies@gmail. com or contact one of the Golf Life Ladies co-founders to get started: Samantha at 770-820-5559 or Kim at 678-249-7394.

Also, follow them on Facebook at Golf Life Ladies - Public League.

Accepting Applications for 2020-2021 Apply Online

Every day, in every way, we encourage our kids to

Think Beyond: Beyond the walls of the classroom.

Beyond standardized test scores.

Beyond getting into college.

Beyond themselves, their high school, their town.

Beyond stereotypes.

Beyond their own perceived limits.

To experience The Heritage School in person, schedule a tour today.

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Think Heritage.

Visit heritageschool.com to explore more.

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woRld-class Nearly 20 years ago, a group of community leaders coordinated the development of a communitywide plan called Vision 2020, a strategic initiative for Coweta County’s economic and community development. The plan launched in 1999 with input from the Coweta County government, Newnan city government, the Coweta County School System, the Newnan-Coweta Chamber, 21st Century Coweta, and others in hopes of creating a “preferred Coweta” by the year 2020.

Now that the target is upon us, the Chamber endeavors to initiate a new conversation to drill down and refocus the goals initially outlined, while analyzing community impact and identifying touchpoints for benchmarking progress.

In 2019, after months of planning, a steering committee comprised of local business leaders and key Chamber staff initiated the first of what promises to be many Intercommunity Leadership visits, designed to glean valuable information from municipalities similar to those of Coweta

chamber coweta 2030

County. The first stop: Greenville, South Carolina.

November brought over 35 key community stakeholders, representatives of local business and industry, and county and municipal leaders to the storied city of Greenville, a 40-year rejuvenation resulting in a vibrant community that embraces nature, celebrates art and provides solid foundations for education and business while encouraging fellowship as a livable and walkable community.

One key takeaway is evident. We’re ahead of the game. Coweta County brims with thriving businesses, as well as local gems and innovations such as the Central Educational Center, the Carnegie Library, ample healthcare assets, and amenities, and thriving Main Street communities.

But, if you’re not moving forward, you’re standing still or, worse yet, you’re regressing. And it’s time to DREAM BIG.

These remain touchstones for the next chapter in envisioning Coweta’s future. As the Chamber works with government leaders to maintain Coweta’s position at the height of its advantage, the convener role takes center stage as the result of the jambpacked three-day experiential visit, which sparked

ongoing dialogue about alternative development practices, neighborhood revitalization, tourism, and a great deal more.

Coweta’s next phase promises to be multi-layered and efficient. “To properly unmask our next steps for visioning, we must continuously prepare the groundwork for the environment we seek,” said Candace Boothby. “Our relationships and partnerships with elected officials and municipal leaders must be meaningful because community development succeeds best through collaborations.

It works better if we are many…together.”

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In the initial Vision 2020, community stakeholders outlined five broad areas of focus: building a stronger economy, strengthening workforce skills, improving infrastructure for business, expanding private business services, and protecting quality of life.

WO R L D CL AS S C HA M B ER

“The universal arc of an organization or community is defined by transformation. The way to prevent any organization or community’s arc from falling is simple—through constant innovation,” explains Candace Boothby, President and CEO of the Newnan Coweta Chamber.

“That’s what we want to continue to foster and encourage in Coweta.”

3

LETTER FROM THE 2019 CHAIR &

president / ceo

Dear esteemed Chamber members, It was truly an honor to serve as the 2019 Chair of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber. We accomplished several significant initiatives throughout the year and I’m especially proud that Coweta marked another exciting milestone by graduating the first class of apprenticeship students from the Georgia Consortium for Advanced Technical Training (GA CATT).

Further, my tenure as Board chair realized a full year of THRIVE, the Chamber’s celebrated quarterly business publication, increasing distribution from 3,000 business community members to over

4,000 and from 42 pages to a remarkable 72 and counting.

Three State of Community Luncheons this calendar year afforded membership valuable insight via thoughtful conversations about Housing, Transportation, Business, Retail and Talent Development. The inaugural Inter-Community Leadership trip to Greenville, South Carolina provided local leaders with best practices, lasting relationships, and vision for Coweta as a community that continues to grow and to THRIVE. And, certainly not to be overlooked, the Newnan-

Coweta Chamber led the campaign to promote the passage of the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST), serving again as a champion for increased economic prosperity in the interest of our greater business community.

I look forward to continuing to serve as a member of the Chamber’s executive committee as we work toward executing Vision 2030, one which is certain to enhance economic prosperity and quality of life in our outstanding greater Coweta communities.

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Come See Us!

4

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LETTER FROM THE 2020

chair

Dear Chamber Members, It is an honor to have been asked to serve as the Chair for the Newnan-Coweta Chamber Board of Directors in the coming year. In the recent past, we have observed the year 2020 as a strategic milestone. While we don’t own and operate flying vehicles or commingle with human-like robots (that we know of ), the new decade has finally arrived and we pause to evaluate our progress in completing the ambitious goals set 20 and 30 years ago – and to set new goals as we “Dare to Dream Big.” As a community, we have achieved a great many successes, especially as they relate to Vision 2020 and the goals that we have collaboratively set out to accomplish. Coweta has become a thriving healthcare destination, offering tremendous assets and resources that we only dreamed of twenty years ago.

We have continued to pioneer talent development best practices and innovate through industry, educational, and legislative partnerships. Coweta has become a touchstone for other communities who look to develop career academies in observing, and often duplicating, our Central Educational Center model.

As we chart the course for the next decade, the continued partnership between government, education, and business and industry is paramount to fostering a prosperous and vibrant community. The Chamber will continue to serve as the convener in bringing groups together to create a cohesive vision and work to enhance our already exemplary quality of life.

In an age of sound bites, digital inundation, and impossibly hectic schedules, I implore our members to take the time to connect with fellow members, share their ideas about the needs for the continued success of our community, and engage with the Chamber to inspire Coweta 2030. Only by moving forward can we gain the traction to avoid slipping back.

Phill Trickey

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2019 board of directors The Newnan-Coweta Chamber Board of Directors is comprised of business leaders who represent numerous aptitudes and industries and are fully committed to the success of Coweta County.

Through a committee structure, the Board approves and implements a formal business plan that is updated annually.

At the Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 72nd Annual Meeting in February the Newnan-Coweta Chamber celebrated the service of Dr. Tonya Whitlock (West Georgia Technical College), Immediate Past Chair, and welcomed Phil Trickey (PWT Advisory Services) as our 2020 Chair.

These are very important roles within our organization, held by dedicated business leaders who actively participate in the vision, the planning, and the resulting magic in our community.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Dr. Tonya Whitlock

Phil Trickey

Andy Miller

Jeff Phillips

Samantha Brazie

Doug Bates

Jay Boren

Hasco Craver

John Daviston

Mike Fitzpatrick

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Chair West Georgia Technical College

6

Dr. Steve Barker

Coweta County Schools (Ex-Officio)

CMIT Solutions of Atlanta Southern Crescent

Chair-Elect PWT Advisory Services

Coweta County Water & Sewerage Authority

Immediate Past Chair PrintSource

City of Newnan (Ex-Officio)

Treasurer | Vice Chair World Class Chamber Newnan Utilities

McKoon Funeral Home

Vice Chair Advocacy and Public Policy Progressive Heating, Air and Plumbing

Mike Fitzpatrick Ford

JOINING THE BOARD IN 2020 Sharon Rogers Newnan GNC

Jim Thomasson

75 Jackson Real Estate

Trae Westmoreland Coweta County Development Authority (Ex-Officio)

Mark Whitlock

Central Educational Center (Ex-Officio)

Shawn Bright

Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital of Newnan

NEW DECADE SAME FAMILY

Serving Coweta County for 65 years Classic down-to-earth style to fit the way your family lives

Current and prospective Board members gather at Newnan's Lillian Gardens for annual retreat.

John Hall United Bank

Garnet Reynolds Vice Chair Member Engagement BB&T

Dr. Bob Heaberlin

University of West Georgia

Chris Stephens Vice Chair Talent Development Georgia Power

Renee Horton

Renee Horton Agency LLC, American Family Insurance

Candace Boothby

President and CEO Newnan-Coweta Chamber

Mike Robertson

Piedmont Newnan Hospital

Parisian Marketplace Whole Home Group

Largest display of home furnishings in the area!

Cleatus Phillips

City of Newnan (Ex-Officio)

David Keller

E.G.O. North America Inc.

Michael Fouts

Coweta County (Ex-Officio)

Jeff Treadwell Buffalo Rock

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Vice Chair Community Prosperity Georgia Power

201 9 CH AM B E R AN NUAL R E P O RT

Jem Morris

7

ChambeR STAFF who ' s working for you ?

Eager to help and always at the ready, Newnan-Coweta Chamber staff are in the privileged position of working with you to ensure a thriving environment for Coweta business. Meet the creative and forward-thinking team of professionals who rally day-in and day-out to bolster increased economic prosperity for our members. It’s never just “a day at the office!”

ProspeRity IDENTIFIED crossing the threshold of prosperity ’ s front door Coweta County is a remarkably strong community strategically positioned to provide all of the amenities crucial to fostering growth and development.

The county has become a magnet for those seeking an exceptional quality of life, with a wide range of specialized healthcare treatment options and an education system that prioritizes student advancement.

Candace Boothby President and CEO

Susan Kraut

Vice-President of Strategy and Operations

Cynthia Bennett

Vice-President of Advocacy and Talent Development

Coweta’s close proximity to Atlanta and the busiest airport in the world provides businesses and residents easy access to a cohesive network essential to Coweta’s progress.

As the front door to prosperity, Coweta County is the ultimate destination to grow business and community.

Valerie Ward

Katie Stepp

Jennifer Garcia

Abby Smith

Nora Ann Woods

Beverly Garner

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Executive Assistant & Office Coordinator

8

Communications Specialist

Member Relations and Communications Manager

Member Retention Specialist

Member Services and Operations Assistant

There are six “pillars” that serve as touchstones in informing the Chamber’s mission to champion increased economic prosperity for members. These pillars reflect the essential considerations that lie central to a thoughtful community development strategy.

Administrative Support

SUPPORT TEAM

Bob Coggin

Government Affairs

Celenna Davis

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Business

Education

Healthcare

Housing

Retail

Quality of Life

Colleen D. Mitchell Sales and Business Development

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dooR

award - winning chamber . award - winning members .

2019 marked an incredible year for Newnan-Coweta Chamber members. While a full roster of member accomplishments and accolades could quickly fill an entire publication, we’re thrilled to showcase a handful of some of the most impressive triumphs. We’re grateful for the opportunity to serve this community of thriving, prosperous businesses and leaders!

IMPACT: Business

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Advanced Technology Logistics (ATL) was awarded the White House Service Center Supplemental Labor Support to maintain efficient building operations and provide services to the Executive Office of the President of the United States.

ATL will be giving quality USRO engineers, electricians, woodworkers, and locksmiths support beginning January 2019. Congratulations to Levi Robinson and his team on this incredible opportunity.

10

Leadership Class of 2020! Michelle was 1 of 30 chosen out of 70 nominations and 55 applications.

United Community Bank received well-deserved recognition as one of the Best Banks to Work For in 2019 by American Banker and Best Companies Group for the third consecutive year.

IMPACT: Education

Edward Jones Financial Adviser Chad Smith was awarded the firm’s coveted Ted Jones Prospecting Award, which recognizes financial advisors who achieve high levels of success early in their careers. Congratulations Chad!

The University of West Georgia was named one of the Most Promising Places to Work in Student Affairs by the American Personnel Association (ACPA) and Diverse: Issues in Higher Education magazine. UWG is one of only two universities to receive this honor in all six years it’s been printed.

Lawson & Beck, Attorneys at Law, was awarded the “Partner of the Week” award by First Choice Loan Services (Pina Payne and Denver Payton) for their work on a difficult to closing file. Congratulations!

All three Coweta County High Schools were named 2019 Georgia Advanced Placement Honor Schools.

A special congratulations to Danny Nungesser II, Managing Partner at Modern Woodmen of America, on earning his Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP) designation from The American College.

Those earning their RICP designation must complete a rigorous series of proctored exams, completed at least three college-level courses, have at least three years of professional experience, and pass stringent ethics requirements.

Michelle Boyd, Associate Broker with Randolph Williamson, was selected to be a part of the CREW Atlanta

West Georgia Technical College raised a record-breaking $61,000 at their annual Black Tie & Boots fundraiser.

The funds raised provide student scholarships, purchase equipment, support advanced labs and classrooms, and provide professional development opportunities for faculty and staff.

Ruth Hill Elementary 4th and 5th-grade Launch Pad Library Heroes initiated a 16-day challenge to create 100 bedtime bags to comfort kids ages 5-8, winning the Star 94.1 $10,000 Giveback Giveaway. Their “Sweet Dreams: Kids Helping Kids in Crisis” project was recognized as the 2019 Most Outstanding Community Service Project.

THE PLACE TO BE IN DOWNTOWN NEWNAN! Ruth Hill Elementary (Photo | Credit: Steven Garza/Star 94.1/Radio.com)

In 2019, Governor Brian Kemp signed legislation lifting restrictions previously imposed by the state on Newnan’s Cancer Treatments Centers of America before it opened a decade ago.

As a result, CTCA is no longer subject to a limit on the number of in-patient beds or the percentage of Georgians in its patient mix.

Book your corporate parties, events and business meetings for lunch or dinner and we’ll do the rest!

Beautiful, convenient location for rehearsal dinners, receptions and special occasions!

The Benton House of Newnan was awarded a 2019 Pinnacle Quality Insight Customer Experience Award.

Stellar wine list, finest steaks, seafood and meats you’ll keep coming back for!

Three cheers for Kaiser Permanente Health Care! According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) 2020 Star Quality Ratings, the Georgia Region received an overall 5-star rating, the highest possible rating for its Medicare Advantage Plan.

Relax with our craft beers and specialty cocktails!

Kenneth Akey M.D. F.A.A.P. / Pediatrics received the 2019 Breastfeeding Friendly Physician Award. Annually during World Breastfeeding Month, the Georgia Breastfeeding Coalition honors a Breastfeeding Friendly Physician, Healthcare Provider, and Business.

Enjoy our local musical talents with friends!

Like us on Meredith Lawrimore, RN at the Inpatient Unit at Cancer Treatment Centers of America, received eight nominations for the DAISY Award!

at: TheCellarNewnan for our weekly menu!

20 Jefferson Street, Newnan, GA

770-683-6328

WO R L D CL AS S C HA M B ER

Resurgens Orthopaedics and Piedmont Healthcare were awarded Top Workplaces for 2019 by the Atlanta JournalConstitution. Both companies ranked in the top 20 in the Large Workplace category.

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IMPACT: Healthcare

Trays and boxed lunches catered for every occasion and available for pickup!

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DAISY Award nominations come from patients, family members, and colleagues who experience or observe compassionate care that goes above and beyond.

Piedmont Newnan Hospital, continues support of local schools with a $15,000 donation.

Piedmont Newnan Hospital

IMPACT: Housing

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Enhanced Investor Joy Barnes of Berkshire Hathaway graced the cover of Top Agent Magazine, the premier real estate magazine featuring the best real estate agents in the USA, Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

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Congratulations to Realtor Tim Stout, named one of The Atlantan’s leading 100 agents, an honor which is based on hard work, passion for the business, and commitment to both their industry and their clients, on whose behalf they labor tirelessly. Theirs is an accolade much deserved, and it is with great pleasure that we communicate that achievement to the community at large—to industry peers and to the clients who rely so heavily upon their valued service.

IMPACT: Quality of Life Celebrating the commitment to a better Coweta, several Cowetan’s were honored at the 2019 Kiwanis Citizen of the Year awards gala, four of which are members of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber: Melvinor J. Kendrick (Nissan of Newnan), Garnet Reynolds (Truist/BB&T), Marie Swope, Mark Whitlock (Central Educational Center), and Ronny D. Jones (RDJE). Congratulations to Marie Swope, who took home top honors as Coweta’s 2019 COTY. The Coweta Community Foundation named the Rutledge Center as their Nonprofit of the Year, issuing a $3,000 grant for board development. Located in Newnan, the Rutledge Center began in 1968 as a small “special needs” school and is now a leading organization in supporting adults with developmental disabilities to have equal opportunities to live, learn, work, and play in their communities. The Coweta Community Foundation, Inc. was established in 1997 under the guidance of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber.

The City of Senoia was named Georgia’s Safest City in the fifth annual Safest Cities report by SafeWise. Senoia jumped from number four in 2018 to number one this year. Community policing, dedicated officers, a low property crime rate, and support of the residents and the City all contribute to the safety of the Senoia community.

Georgia House of Representative Lynn Smith and Coweta County School System Superintendent Dr. Steve Barker were presented with Golden Eagle awards from the Flint River Council, Boy Scouts of America.

The State Bar of Georgia awarded 2019 Leadership Coweta Alumnae Anissa Patton, the Justice P. Harris Hines Georgia Child Welfare Award.

IMPACT: Retail A recent study commissioned by the Newnan-Coweta Chamber set out to provide a detailed analysis of local shopping habits and the impact on local sales tax revenues. The report, based on a range of geographic and retail locations within the county, suggests that out-of-county residents account for up to 78% of patrons to Coweta’s retail outlets.

Anissa Patton

The City of Senoia received the Live Work Play Award from the Georgia Municipal Association.

At the Georgia Utilities Coordinating Council Fall Conference, Coweta County Water and Sewerage Authority was awarded the Lester Feathers Damage Prevention Award for their efforts in safe digging practices. Congratulations on your Golden Backhoe Award for Region 3!

A T R U S T E D PA R T N E R

For ALL Your Business Printing Needs Coweta County Water and Sewage Authority

The seven Coweta apprentices

August 7th marked Signing Day for the 4th Cohort of the Georgia Consortium for Advanced Technical Training (GA CATT) Congratulations to the Coweta apprentices!

We look forward to the continuing success of the Advanced Manufacturing Technician Program.

Joining the celebration was State Rep. Josh Bonner, State Senator Matt Brass who hosted the ceremony, as well as Central Educational Center’s CEO Mark Whitlock who opened the ceremony and introduced the seven Coweta apprentices.

V I S I T U S AT 233 Jefferson Street • Newnan

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2014

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The City of Newnan was awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the GFOA of the US & Canada for the City’s comprehensive annual financial report, also known as the CFAR.

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Coweta Leaders Graduate from the Georgia Academy for Economic Development On Thursday, November 12th 2019, the Board of the Georgia Academy for Economic Development announced Coweta County graduates from the 2019 Region 4 Multi-Day Training Program. Class participants represented several professional and non-professional economic development fields, including elected officials, public servants, business leaders, educators, and social service providers from 10 counties in west-central Georgia. The Academy provided each of the graduates an opportunity to gain a unique understanding of the complexities of economic and community development on the local, regional, and state levels.

The Academy’s multi-day program, taught one day a month over four months, includes training in the basics of economic and community development, plus specialized segments on business recruitment and retention, tourism product development, downtown development, planning, and other essentials for community success. Additionally, the curriculum features specific leadership skills such as consensus building, ethics in public service, collaborative leadership and other segments needed for effective community leadership in economic development.

Coweta County graduates at the November ceremony include: • Scott Berta, Managing Partner, Tree Protection Supply • Blue Cole, Mayor, Town of Sharpsburg • Ashley Copeland, Communications Manager, City of Newnan, • Cynthia Culbreath • Cynthia Jenkins, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Newnan • Michael Lear, Chief Marketing Officer, The Southern Credit Union • Norman Lundin, Board Member, Coweta County Development Authority • Susan Kraut, Vice-President of Strategy and Operations, Newnan-Coweta Chamber • Anissa Patton, Esq., Anissa R. Patton, Attorney at Law • Abby Smith, Communication Specialist, NewnanCoweta Chamber

Front row, Left to Right: Cynthia Culbreath; Susan Kraut; Anissa Patton, Abby Smith.

Back Row, Left to Right: Carrie Barnes, Georgia EMC; Scott Berta; Blue Cole; Norman Lundin; Jim Lovett, Georgia Power

Straight Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

In patient safety.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re proud to announce that Piedmont Newnan Hospital has received an A from the Leapfrog Group for our commitment to patient safety and quality for the tenth consecutive time.

piedmont.org

member testimonials

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Three Cheers for your 5-Star Chamber and 2015 National Chamber of the Year!

Hear what members have to say about their experience with the Newnan-Coweta Chamber.

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Day-after-day, our mission of championing increased economic prosperity for members has us working diligently for YOU. Each initiative, every strategy, and many offerings of value are devised with Coweta’s greater business community top-of-mind. Now and again, we receive a message that expresses appreciation for what we do and there’s no better affirmation than that which we receive from our members!

I believe in the Chamber and its community influence.

Our Chamber is very involved in the business community and doesn’t just sit back and let things happen without being involved in the decisions, which means a lot to me and my business.

There is no question that the Chamber plays a vital role in helping connect us with others that value relationship-driven business. Our absolute best leads originate either directly or indirectly from Chamber participation.

GUY WARD – Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group

TIM SMITH, American Legion

RYAN SMITH – Monster Tree Service Chamber membership provides me with opportunities to connect with members, guests, and local business owners.

I often meet business owners who are either a veteran or a family member of one. The Chamber has helped us reach those we might not meet otherwise.

New name Same commitment HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Newnan has been committed to a higher level of rehabilitative care for our patients and their families. Under our new name, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Newnan, we continue to provide the same inpatient rehabilitative care you have come to expect, connecting patients to superior outcomes and a better way of life.

2101 E. Newnan Crossing Boulevard Newnan, GA 30265 678.552.6202 encompasshealth.com/newnanrehab ©2018:Encompass Health Corporation:1371893-02

Through the Chamber, I get to meet other professionals from different industries and demographics in our community during various networking events and get to know them on a personal level. It’s not what you know, it’s who you know, and the Chamber has been a catalyst in my professional growth.

DANNY NUNGESSER, Modern Woodmen of America New to Coweta, I knew my best option for meeting people would involve the Chamber. From the moment I walked in the door, I was welcomed and included by both Chamber staff as well as non-Chamber members. Taking part in several of the available programs has made me feel connected and engaged.

AMANDA CAMP, Coweta CASA Becoming a part of the Chamber is one of the best things I have done, both professionally and personally. It’s a great way to stay in touch with what is going on in Newnan and Coweta County and to develop personal relationships with others involved in the community.

VALERIE WHITTINGTON, Bedazzled Flower Shop Membershiphttps://www.derminstitutemd.com in the Chamber is essential to any business and the success they can attain. The Chamber is a vital part of Insignia of Newnan’s existence and keeps us abreast of local and state legislation and that which will affect the citizens of our community. I cannot imagine having a business and not being a member of “our” Chamber.

BRENDA MITCHELL, Insignia of Newnan

J&M Pools loves being a part of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber. Since our inception in 2009, we have utilized the resources provided by the Chamber to educate, build relationships with other like-minded business owners, and increase our local exposure.

As the 2018 Small Business of the Year winner in the Employer and Overall categories, we are living proof that a relationship with the Newnan-Coweta Chamber is a must for anyone striving to add value to their company!

JACOB AND MICHAEL DURAND, J&M Pools

The Chamber is like a family gathering! All of your sisters, brothers, cousins, etc. are there to connect on different levels; everyone brings their dish to add to the pot of growth.

Along our journey with the Chamber, we add to the family as new members come into the group, it’s very exciting to see what each new member dish will be. So I want to thank the Chamber and their staff for all it brings to the Community and I look forward to making more memories with the Chamber for years to come!

AMY KENDALL, AFLAC

Visit us for all of your Dermatology, Cosmetic Surgery, and Aesthetic needs!

Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital of Newnan It has been my pleasure to be involved with the Newnan-Coweta Chamber for well over fifteen years. From my grand opening and ribbon-cutting in 2000, to serving on the Board, serving as an Ambassador, hosting numerous events, and attending countless gatherings, this Chamber has always been supportive, a wonderful resource for business contracts, and a wealth of business knowledge. As Coweta County has changed, this Chamber has been supportive of small businesses like Healthy Life Chiropractic, providing education and relevant information.

Dedicated to Healthy and Beautiful Skin

7 7 0 -4 0 0 -8 4 0 0 dermatologyinstitutemd.com 1075 Lafayette Parkway, Suite 240, LaGrange, GA 30241 1615 Highway 34 East, Suite B, Newnan, GA 30265

DR. TINA McKAY, Healthy Life Chiropractic

find us on Facebook

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TEDRA McFARLIN,

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Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital of Newnan is proud to be an active member of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber. Their active events calendar provides many opportunities to build community relationships that encourage and support Coweta County’s growth and development.

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The Newnan Coweta Chamber is a place where you can not only grow your business but grow as a person and a professional. My Chamber Family means so much to me; they have made me who I am today in my career and are a huge part of my success. The Newnan Coweta Chamber is truly one of a kind!

PARKER GRINER, Hampton Inn, Newnan As a small grass-roots non-profit, being a member of the Newnan Coweta Chamber brings opportunities to meet and network with established and newly established businesses and corporations in our community. Using their strategic opportunities, attending programs, and utilizing the resources has been vital to what we, as a non-profit, do within our community. The Non-Profit Alliance allows those of us who are boots on the ground, to collaborate so our children are safer and our families are stronger. The Chamber stands for opening the door to prosperity, advocacy, talent, community and economic development. Each of these is vital for our community to grow and allow each individual the opportunity to thrive.

LINDA KIRKPATRICK, Family Patterns Matter, Inc. The Chamber is a business organization that represents the interests of our local business of all sizes, sectors and regions.

As a small business owner (a chamber member), I’ve had to opportunity to get involved with our community, attend monthly business-to-business networking events, which have led to connecting and building relationships with other local business professionals. Being a chamber member has brought great credibility to my organization.

SHANDRIA SANCHEZ,

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Soaring N2 Destiny Academy of Performing Arts

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The main thing the Chamber has meant to me is becoming a part of the business district for the area. SOS has been in Newnan for over 30 years under the leadership of Steve Bledsoe. Steve had an opportunity to retire and enjoy time with his wife, children and grandchildren. This allowed me to continue the growth and service of SOS to the NewnanCoweta businesses.

For the last 27 years, I have provided office technology solutions, mostly involving copier and printer products, to companies in the Atlanta area. So, when I came to be the Area Manager of Sales for SOS in Newnan, I was told that the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce would be a great place to meet other businesses in the area. When I saw “Prosperity’s Front Door” as the Chambers slogan, I knew it was exactly what I was looking for. The Newnan-Coweta Chamber isn’t only interested in numbers of members joined; they want the members to have the chance to be active as well. The Chamber offers so many different events, programs, and committees to be a part of. If you want to be active, the Chamber has a way that fits your calendar.

Since becoming active in the Newnan-Coweta Chamber this year, I have felt welcomed to this business district. I hope I can give back to the Chamber as much as it has been able to give to me.

SCOTT SINKLER, Standard Office Systems

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member

Drugs Don’t Work

Georgia Chamber Federation

Members can increase productivity and reduce annual workers’ compensation premiums by 7.5% by participating in the Drugs Don’t Work program. This program educates employers about the prevention, intervention, and elimination of substance abuse in the workplace. As a drug-free workplace, you’ll increase productivity and reduce the cost of doing business.

Through the Georgia Chamber Federation, any Chamber member-business with ten or fewer full-time employees receives free membership into the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. This partnership with local chambers focuses on empowering small businesses.

Benefits include representation at the state and federal levels as the Georgia Chamber advocates for pro-business measures, participation on statewide initiatives that create the Georgia Chamber’s legislative priorities, involvement in policy development through the Georgia Chamber’s grassroots network and member surveys, and timely information on legislative issues and educational opportunities.

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The Chamber provides support for the program, at a discounted rate, to meet all five certification requirements of Georgia law and includes:

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benefits

• Twelve issues of the Drug-Free Workplace employee and supervisor training newsletter (meets annual training education requirement) • List of treatment and counseling centers in your area (meets treatment center list requirement) • Fill-in-the-blanks substance abuse policy (meets all requirements of Georgia law) • Drug-Free Workplace poster, window, and door stickers (required by Georgia law) • Free legal advice from our Drug-Free Workplace attorney • Drug-Free Workplace consultation from our drug-free workplace experts • Assistance in completing the application for certification

For more details, contact us at 770.253.2270 or info@ newnancowetachamber.org.

A $35 annual fee applies and will be collected separately

by The State Board of Workers’ Compensation.

Georgia Chamber SMART Plan In partnership with the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, we’ve teamed up with Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield to administer the Georgia Chamber SMART Plan, a new health coverage solution that can lead to rate stability and potential savings for groups with 2 to 50 eligible employees. This plan allows smaller employers to be part of a larger, self-funded pool, with financial protection backed by Anthem.

In addition to financial protection, these innovative alternatives offer: • • • •

Competitive rates Predictable, fixed monthly payments Flexibility in your choice of benefit plans Anthem’s broad Open Access POS network and Essential Rx Formulary

To talk to your local Chamber member insurance professional to see if this plan is right for your business, contact us at 770.253.2270 or info@newnancowetachamber.org

Georgia Trend Magazine

Office Depot | Office Max

Chamber members receive a complimentary subscription to Georgia Trend magazine, a monthly publication that features business, politics, economic development, health care, education, CEOs, leadership, banking, energy, environment, travel, and more.

Chamber members qualify for exclusive discounts ranging from 5-55% on Office Depot products and services via a Store Purchasing Card or the mobile business app at all retail locations. We’ve partnered with Office Depot to bring you exclusive discounts on office supplies, products, and services.

Through the program, you will receive:

Have you ever needed your will prepared or updated? Signed a contract? Received a moving traffic violation? Worried about becoming a victim of identity theft? Been concerned about your child’s identity? Lost your wallet?

• Up to 45% off items companies purchase most frequently: ink and toner, paper and general supplies • Up to 10% off almost everything Office Depot stocks in stores and the Business Solutions Division annual catalog • Discounts on cleaning and breakroom products, copy and print, furniture, technology and more Start saving today!

Chamber members and their employees receive a 25% to 32% discount on LegalShield and IDShield. LegalShield’s membership plan provides affordable legal protection to individuals and small businesses. IDShield is an identity theft protection and restoration plan.

Link: http://bit.ly/NewnanCC_OD Text NewnanChamberCard to 555888 Download and print Store Purchasing Card: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1picAGyL_2NUG lGgyjH60p7Vhvg28lz4y

Legal Shied | ID Shield

For more information or to sign up, visit http://www. legalshield.com/info/newnancoweta or contact Maria Hall at 678.280.4054 or maria@ignitebusinesscoaching.com.

Purchasing Alliance Solutions (PAS) offers customized insurance solutions to fit your unique needs. Developed to give small and medium-sized member businesses access to discounted insurance products, PAS works through independent member insurance agents to provide comprehensive health insurance, limited benefit health plans, long term care insurance and supplemental coverages like dental insurance, term life insurance, disability income coverage, and vision care insurance. Now you can give your employees quality benefit packages as large companies provide.

For more information or to get a quote, call 770.579.1214 or 800.782.8254 or email info@purchasingalliance.com

Tools for Business With one click on the Tools tab on the Chamber homepage, members can access free resources for businesses of all size and scope, with over 1,500 links to resources which encourage business growth. New information is added monthly.

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Purchasing Alliance Solutions

The Member Information Center (MIC) is an online, password-protected Chamber member community hub for daily interactions, allowing members to access resources and benefits while building integrated relationships with ease.

Take advantage of your “personal Chamber home page” by adding pictures and text, with the perk to add “Hot Deals,” job openings, and events for public query. Valuable, no-cost MIC training is offered monthly. Call 770.253.2270 or email info@newnancowetchamber.org for details.

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Member Information Center (MIC)

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thrive a quarterly business publication of the newnan-coweta chamber

Rounding out a full year of the publication of THRIVE, we pause for a moment in reflecting on the journey since our maiden voyage in publishing in the fall of 2018. The primary goal of the quarterly was to share the “magic” that has been born of some incredible collaborations in the dynamic 71year history of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber, Coweta’s largest business organization.

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But a great deal more has come of this undertaking. Members have garnered an opportunity to benefit from a cost-effective and impactful means by which they can reach new audiences throughout Coweta County (and beyond). The Chamber has created a vehicle through which we can share the impact of our efforts and those of our innovative businesses and organizations.

Member organizations have isolated a way to tell their stories of success and continued prosperity.

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What began as a modest 48-page periodical reaching 3,000 members of our esteemed business community has evolved into a lauded 72-page publication reaching over 4,000, exceeding our expectations, both editorially and in how well received it is by our community. Each issue endeavors to provide immeasurable insight into local initiatives that could not have come to pass without the informed and thoughtful alliance between the Chamber, business and industry, local municipalities, our exceptional school system, the Coweta County Development Authority, and countless others who reflect the collaborative spirit which is fast-becoming a trademark of our great community.

Continued collaboration will advance, not only economic prosperity but increased quality of life. We encourage you to follow along via mediums such as THRIVE as you bear witness to continued transformation to the betterment of all who work, live, play, and THRIVE in Coweta County.

Thank you for your continued support of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber in our effort to champion increased prosperity for our members and for your attention as we chronicle our many triumphs on behalf of and alongside our member businesses.

NCC’s leading ladies celebrate the one-year anniversary of the Winter 2019 THRIVE cover shoot

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2019 impact and influence As part of more than 70 opportunities created by the Chamber for members to learn, connect, collaborate, and discover more about our greater Coweta business community, we facilitated scores of opportunities for leadership training, business development, advocacy, and, of course, member-to-member engagement.

6 Figure Success Club – First Friday (4)

Business-After-Hours (9)

Breakfast and Benefits (4)

Coweta County Candidate Forum (3)

Coffee Call (3)

Business Women Owners Coaching (8)

Business Women’s Wellness Alliance Lunch (3)

Enhanced investors and key stakeholders attend Georgia Chamber Eggs and Chamber supports Issues Legislative Kiwanis Citizen of the Breakfast Year Award banquet,

Coweta students participate in interactive showcase of 9 beneficial career paths

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Enhanced Investor Alliance Event Reception (4)

Annual Meeting welcomes Dr. Tonya Whitlock as 2019 Board Chair; local manufacturers recognized via Prosperity Awards

Quarterly round table discussion features nonprofit benefits & resources

Coweta Safety Alliance launches 2019 programming with Drugs Don't Work member benefit 2program 4 overview

University of West Georgia Small Business Development Center (UWG SBDC) launches 2019 consulting services at Chamber

Ribbon Cuttings & Milestone Celebrations (32)

Chamber reprises popular Bowling Adventure with Bowling with Strangers

Small Business Consulting Service (12) State of the Community Luncheon (3) Voice of Business (8)

Non-Profit Alliance Roundtable (4)

Taco Tuesday: First in three-part series of Enhanced Investment think tanks launches with Housing and Education

Chamber launches TSPLOST strategic planning with Public Information Brainstorming Session

Enhanced Investor Alliance VIP Event (4)

Member Information Center (MIC) Training (11)

Economic Prosperity Alliance (4)

Business Women Executive Coaching (8)

Power Networking Lunch (3)

Member Connect Member Orientation (4)

Coweta Safety Alliance (10)

Business Women’s Alliance Luncheon (3)

Enhanced Investor Alliance Think Tank (3)

Leadership Coweta graduates 28 community leaders Pancakes and Politics Georgia Chamber and Coweta Delegation discuss the 2019 legislative sessions

34th Annual Golf Classic

First in State of the Community Luncheon Series features the state of housing in Coweta

Coweta's female leaders gather for triannual Wellness lunch

www.drivingcoweta.com Chamber launches transportation environment and infrastructure public information campaign

Chamber affiliate program launches 2019 kick-off event

Lunch on the LINC introduces local business leaders to Coweta's multi-use trail system

8-member steering committee travels to Greenville, SC to gather information for fall InterCommunity Leadership visit

Chamber hosts Coweta County Sheriff Candidate Forum at CEC

Enhanced investors and key stakeholders attend Georgia Chamber Congressional Luncheon in Macon

Chamber hosts Georgia HD71 Candidate Forum at CEC

First of five-part series of Member Information Center (MIC) training workshops

Coweta stakeholders discuss transportation priorities at State of the Community Luncheon

State of the Community luncheon drills down in Coweta's Economic Development Authority renewed strategies

Chamber hosts Georgia HD71 Runoff Candidate Forum at CEC

Healthcare

Housing

Quality of Life

Board members and Enhanced Investors join together for annual Dinner with the Deligation

Chamber hosts second Bowling Adventure with Bowling with Strangers

Key leaders and stakeholders attend UWG Economic Forecast Breakfast

Targeted campaign continues to bolster public awareness and education in support of TSPLOST referendum

Retail

Coweta's female leaders learn about work/life balance at the Business Women's Alliance holiday luncheon

Taco Tuesday: Business and Retail - third in threepart series of Enhanced Investor think tanks

CO M M U NI T Y P ROS P E R I T Y

Georgia Chamber and NCC present New Georgia Economy Series

Education

Over 35 Coweta leaders travel to Greenville, SC for Chamber's inaugural Inter-Community Leadership visit

Chamber leadership facilitates Coweta County tourism stakeholder meeting Members learn about SELCAT, a local educational program Taco Tuesday: Healthcare and Quality of Life - second in three-part series of affiliated with the National Joint Apprenticeship & Training Enhanced Investor think tanks Committee (NJATC)

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Business

25th Annual Winter Wonderland BIGExpo welcomes over 70 exhibitors and 500 visitors to Coweta's largest business exposition 25

Dare to

dream big

coweta leaders seek inspiration from greenville , sc success story

Noted for being the “textile capital of the world,” Greenville, South Carolina once had 18 textile mills, 13 of which have been preserved today through revitalization. Greenville enjoyed a thriving downtown business community until the textile industry died, and it became a blighted area in the 1970s.

While progression was slow in the revitalization of downtown Greenville, the idea to pool resources from within both the public and private sectors has become the foundation of partnerships that have advanced a myriad of successful projects throughout the city.

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CO M M U NI T Y P ROS P E R I T Y

Intercommunity Leadership Visit presented by Coweta-Fayette EMC, Newnan Utilities and Georgia Power.

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Pictured Left to Right: Dr. Tonya Whitliock, Greenville Mayor- Knox White, Candace Boothby and Andy Miller.

The result of Greenville’s 40-year rejuvenation is a vibrant city that embraces nature, celebrates art, and provides solid foundations for education and business while encouraging fellowship as a livable and walkable community. As a result, Greenville’s flourishing downtown inspires city leaders from across the nation to study its plans to duplicate its success.

As local leaders joined the Newnan-Coweta Chamber in November, 2019 in visiting Greenville on the first of many biennial Inter-community Leadership visits, one key takeaway was evident. We’re ahead of the game. Coweta County brims with thriving businesses, as well as local gems and innovations such as the Central Educational Center, the Carnegie Library, ample healthcare assets and amenities, and thriving Main Street communities.

But, if you’re not moving forward, you’re standing still or, worse yet, regressing.

Kim Learnard, Director Friends of LINC, explores Greenvilles Swamp Rabbit Trail.

Coweta’s next chapter has begun with the Inter-Community Leadership visit. As the Chamber works with government leaders to maintain Coweta’s position at the height of its advantage, the convener role takes center stage as the result of the jamb-packed three-day experiential visit designed to spark dialogue about alternative development practices, neighborhood revitalization, tourism, and a great deal more.

Coweta’s next phase promises to be multi-layered and efficient.

“To properly unmask our next steps for visioning, we must continuously prepare the groundwork for the environment we seek,” said Candace Boothby, NCC’s President and CEO. “Our relationships and partnerships with elected officials and municipal leaders must be meaningful because community development succeeds best through collaborations. It works better if we are many…together.”

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CO M M U NI T Y P ROS P E R I T Y

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the State of the community presented by :

Chamber’s three-part luncheon series lends valuable insight into the state of housing, transportation infrastructure, and economic development in Coweta County.

The State of Housing The first in the Chamber’s 2019 State of the Community Luncheon series welcomed Dr. William “Joey” Smith, a local economist and Department of Economics Chair and Professor at the University of West Georgia. A topic of great local interest and intrigue, Dr. Smith educated attendees on the current state of housing in Coweta, lending insight as to what to expect as we continue to welcome jobs [and residents] to the community.

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CO M M U NI T Y P ROS P E R I T Y

Joey Smith University of West Georgia, Richards College of Business

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Backed by well-sourced facts and stats, Dr. Smith proposed that, even following the economic downturn in 2008, Coweta continued to maintain a healthy economy, rendering it exemplary in the region, but cautioned that a focus on maintenance-light and maintenance-free housing is a key consideration in fashioning a Coweta that is adaptive and innovative in creating solutions for a growing population.

The State of Transportation In June, the Chamber hosted the second in the annual State of the Community luncheon series, featuring Coweta County Administrator Michael Fouts as he educated attendees on the proposed project list and division of proceeds had voters elected to pass the 1% sales tax in November.

Following an overview of TSPLOST and projects per municipality, the Chamber welcomed a panel of subjectmatter experts and community leaders including Parks Avery, Friends of the LINC Board Member, Avery and Pope; Pavielle Ludlow, Transit Program Manager, Three Rivers Regional

Commission; Alicia Rainwater, retired, Georgia Department of Transportation; and Michael Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Piedmont Newnan Hospital.

Fouts and panelists shared data and anecdotes in support of the proposed increase, which would have raised the sales tax to 8% in Coweta County, one of nearly 92 counties across Georgia with the same rate as a result of regional or singlecounty TSPLOST initiatives. Despite a significant input and education campaign launched by the Chamber, the referendum failed to pass.

Newnan Coweta Chamber's Candace Boothby, Cynthia Bennett and Susan Kraut

I am honored to serve as your state representative for House District 70.

Please contact me at lynn.smith@house.ga.gov facebook.com/lynnsmithforhouse

The third and final in the Chamber’s 2019 State of the Community Luncheon series welcomed Trae Westmoreland, president of the Coweta County Development Authority, who enlightened guests as to the state of economic and talent development in Coweta County.

Westmoreland shared that the Development Authority is intentional in their recruiting efforts insomuch as they no longer incentivize businesses like distribution centers, but instead carefully seek out and recruit manufacturing facilities, as well as back-office, blue-collar, and corporate environments. Westmoreland and his team are drilling down and asking the question: “what exactly is the right kind of growth?” This strategy, he believes, is one of the critical pieces of the puzzle in fostering a thoughtful Coweta.

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The State of Economic Development

CO M M U NI T Y P ROS P E R I T Y

Left to Right: Ronnie Clotfelter - ChickfilA, Scott Chahalis - Blickle, TraeWestmoreland - Coweta County Development Authority, Candace Boothby - Newnan-Coweta Chamber, Randy Cardoza - Cardoza Consulting

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REtaiL StuDY

CHAMBER COMMISSIoNS

A recent data analysis of Coweta County retail spending suggests that out-of-county shoppers account for 78% of patrons to local retail outlets.

The report, based on a range of diverse geographic and retail locations within the county, provides a consumer breakdown of sales tax revenue generated by shoppers within a localized Regional Trade Area (RTA). The Birmingham-based NextSite, LLC study was commissioned by the Newnan-Coweta Chamber and sought to provide a more detailed analysis of local shopping habits and the impact on local sales tax revenues.

“This is the most detailed data we have seen on this subject,” said Candace Boothby, President, and CEO of the NewnanCoweta Chamber. “We know that the impact of non-resident spending in our county is significant. This study helps us

understand the scope of that impact better than we have before. It also suggests that the impact is larger than we knew.”

Boothby noted that it is well-known that significant numbers of shoppers spend in Coweta County because of the impact of Interstate 85 and county growth as a regional shopping and business destination, and that such spending results in a significant non-resident contribution to the county’s economy and tax base. Previous attempts to estimate the impact – specific to sales tax contributions – have relied on a variety of estimates, including observation of shopper patterns at specific retail locations and businesses, and have lent themselves to a figure upwards of 40 percent.

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“Many of those estimates were anecdotal, or focused on one location,” said Susan Kraut, the Chamber’s Vice-President of Strategy and Operations. “This study provides us with a much more comprehensive survey of current travel, shopping, and spending patterns, how those things happen all over the county {and region}, and how that affects us in Coweta. It should help us make more informed decisions as a community.”

Consumer journey analytics were gathered for several shopping districts located in the county, including Kroger, Newnan (Lower Fayetteville Rd.); Ashley Park, Newnan; Sam’s Club, Sharpsburg; and Downtown Senoia, resulting in the determination that annual taxable spending by out-of-county residents from within the RTA totaled $3,567,129,283.

78% of patrons are not Coweta County residents

*shaded blue area is the Regional Trade Area

CENTRAL EDUCATIONAL CENTER

A Charter College and Career Academy

Mission: Ensure competitive talent for current and future careers.

A model that has garnered international attention, CEC represents a joint venture among business and industry, the Coweta County School System, and West Georgia Technical College. CEC’s unique blend of academic and technical courses prepares local youth with real-world knowledge and experience to become productive 21st century citizens and key contributors to a rapidly changing local economy.

Learn more about the innovation of CEC at www.centraleducationalcenter.net

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The Chamber

Newnan-Coweta

CO M M U NI T Y P ROS P E R I T Y

Soft Skills Focus | Driven by Industry | Charter Innovation | Dual Enrollment | Apprenticeship

MISSION: Ensure competitive talent for current and future careers

160 Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. • Newnan, Georgia • (678) 423-2009 • www.centraleducationalcenter.net3 1

ENHANCED INVESTORS

ALLIANCE

Increasingly, a dedicated community of local leaders is coalescing around a vision of prosperity that serves the collective benefit of those who live, work, play, and THRIVE in Coweta.

The Newnan-Coweta Chamber enjoys the participation of over 50 key stakeholders who, together, render a positive impact on the prosperity of one of the fastest-growing regions in the country.

Members of the Enhanced Investors Alliance enjoy unprecedented access to key community leaders, information which informs the collaborative vision for increased economic prosperity, access to benefits and services including use of Chamber’s meeting room, complimentary tickets to events and programming, sponsorship credits for increased brand visibility, and more.

Newnan-Coweta Chamber Program

More for Coweta Enhanced Investors enjoy peer-to-peer engagement with the top minds and key influencers of our business community. Together, they work to identify and drive solutions and innovations that will shape our economic progress and quality of life.

More for Business Being an Enhanced Investor gains local businesses immediate, highprofile exposure and recognition throughout the Coweta community.

Enhanced Investors also receive exceptional opportunities to advocate for their businesses with Coweta’s decision makers and have a leg up when it comes to planning for business growth. From customers to policymakers to the community at large – everyone recognizes Enhanced Investors as powerful community assets.

Enhanced Investors travel by bus to Macon for the Georgia Chamber's Annual Congressional Luncheon.

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CO M M U NI T Y P ROS P E R I T Y

More for Investors

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• Private dinners and luncheons with government and business leaders • Private tours of leading industries • Insider briefings from high-level stakeholders and key decision makers • Public recognition at events • Complimentary entry into select Chamber signature and engagement events

Start the Conversation Learn more about enhanced investment and discover how you can become a part of the Coweta fabric. Do your part and help us do ours.

For more information about Enhanced Investment Opportunities, call Susan Kraut, Vice-President of Strategy and Operations at 470865-3718 or email susan@newnancowetachamber.org

Enhanced Investors enjoy an opportunity to meet and mingle with Fayette Chamber leaders and stakeholders

Platinum Investment

Gold Investment

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P ROP E RT I E S

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Bronze Investment

CO M M U NI T Y P ROS P E R I T Y

Silver Investment

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CANDIDAte

FoRUMS

The Newnan-Coweta Chamber’s mission is to champion increased economic prosperity for our members. The ability to function profitably requires laws and regulations that can help rather than hinder businesses. As such, the Chamber emphasizes local, state, and regional legislation, while monitoring national legislation that affects Coweta business and industry.

As part of our ongoing effort to educate and inform our members and the greater Coweta community, the Chamber, in partnership with Coweta-Fayette EMC, sponsored three Candidate Forums at the Central Educational Center (CEC) for the sheriff and special elections of 2019.

Our first forum of 2019 was held on May 9th, featuring candidates for Coweta County Sheriff. Two-minute openings

by each candidate preceded a series of questions vetted by the Chamber’s Voice of Business Committee. Each candidate also had an opportunity to offer a two-minute closing statement.

August brought Georgia House District 71 special election candidates together for a forum at the Central Educational Center to fill the unexpired term of House Rep David Stover, who resigned in June. Participating in the initial non-partisan

COWEta SAFeTY

ALLIaNCE

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A DVO CACY AND PU B L I C P O L I CY

The Chamber’s Advocacy and Public Policy division supports both industrial and general business by continuing efforts to provide guidance and training via Coweta Safety Alliance.

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Originally formed under the auspices of the Chamber as the Coweta County Industrial Safety Council, the Alliance is comprised of safety professionals who have the desire to share their collective knowledge to the benefit of industry compliance with OSHA regulations and to maintain a safe and healthy local workforce.

The Safety Alliance affirms that it takes the combined efforts of local companies and community resources to effectively promote safe workplace practices, as well as ensure natural disaster and emergency preparedness.

In recent months, Safety Alliance programming has centered around such topics as emergency preparedness, fire safety, ergonomics, hot weather safety, and OSHA regulations.

Chuck Wade, State Director of Drugs Don’t Work, The Council on Alcohol and Drugs, enlightens Safety Alliance attendees as to the merits of a drug-free work environment.

U N I T E D S TAT E S • C A N A D A • M E XIC O

forum were Nina Blackwelder, Jill Prouty, Marcy Sakrison, and Phillip Singleton.

As a result of August’s special election, no single candidate received more than 50% of the vote, necessitating a run-off election in October.

September presented a forum featuring HD 71 runoff candidates Marcy Sakrison and Phillip Singleton, as well as candidates for the Town of Moreland (Alderman), City of Newnan (Council Member District 3 Post A), Town of Sharpsburg (Council Member Post 1), and Town of Turin (Town Council).

E.G.O. is an international high-tech company and one of the leading global manufacturers of domestic and commercial appliance components.

Major Home Appliances Commercial/Food Service Equipment Commercial Laundry E.G.O. North America, Inc. 83 Hillwood Circle • Newnan, GA • 770-251-3980

www.egoproducts.com

August’s meeting at the Coweta Water and Sewerage Authority featured a hands-on presentation from Chris Williams of Sonetics, offering a hands-off approach to wireless communications. The group had the opportunity to demonstrate their handsfree, wireless communications systems, designed to increase team safety and productivity

The Coweta Safety Alliance meets monthly at the Summit 1825 Building in Newnan. For more information, contact Alliance chairman Bryan Burns of Coweta County Water and Sewerage Authority bburns@cowetawater.com or vice-chair Marc Biedermann of R.S. Hughes at mbiedermann@rshughes. com, or call the Newnan-Coweta Chamber at 770-253-2270.

Thank you to our 2019 Chair Jeff Johnson of Kason Industries and Vice-Chair Ronnie Underwood of Advantage Automation.

Kenny Bishop, an attorney with Eraclides Gelman specializing in Georgia Workers’ Compensation for Employers and Insurers, educated the Alliance on Workers’ Compensation and an employer’s duties as they relate to accidents on the job or when accidents are reported.

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The Chamber will continue the practice of advocating for local businesses by engaging with our elected officials and providing opportunities for the community to learn more about candidate platforms.

A DVO CACY AND PU B L I C P O L I CY

The videos from each Forum were televised by NuLink | WOW! and were made available on the Chamber’s website.

Summaries of all responses to the candidate questionnaire were also accessible to the community at large from the onset of early voting through election day.

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PANCAKES &

PolitiCS

In April, members of the Coweta legislative delegation attended our annual Pancakes & Politics breakfast at the Newnan Country Club, lending insight to the progress and productivity of the 2019 legislative session.

Chris Clark of the Georgia Chamber moderated a panel of Coweta delegates, including Senator Matt Brass, Representative Josh Bonner, Representative Lynn Smith, and Representative Bob Trammell.

Clark also shared a keynote presentation, providing members with an overview of how the “New Georgia Economy,” specifically the gig economy, will affect how we do business in our growing region.

April 15 brings our 2020 Pancakes & Politics annual breakfast, presented

by AT&T, the Chamber’s legislative sponsor.

Georgia State Senate

Matt Brass

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A DVO CACY AND PU B L I C P O L I CY

District 28

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Georgia House of Representatives

Robert Trammell D – Luthersville District 132 Minority Leader

We are your game changer....

Josh Bonner R – Fayetteville District 72

Lynn Smith

Phillip Singleton

R-Newnan R – Sharpsburg District 70 District 71 Chair – Natural esources Committee

Exhibits Video Production Events Ken Bennett www.krbcom.com 678-642-3949

tspLost

transportation special purpose local option sales tax

In March 2019, the Newnan-Coweta Chamber launched a public engagement campaign designed to solicit community input as to the county’s transportation infrastructure and environment.

The information was shared with Michael Fouts, Coweta County Administrator, and the Joint Transportation Coordinating Committee (JTCC) in an effort to apprise key decision makers of community feedback prior to finalizing the project list identified per a proposed Single County Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST), to be on the ballot as part of the special election in November.

Following the public engagement series, the Chamber launched a “Vote Yes Twice” campaign, supporting the concurrent passage of both the Homestead Senior Exemption and the 1% Transportation Sales Tax. The election realized a record number of Cowetans who ultimately voted to pass the homestead exemption and negate TSPLOST, though county voting trends continue to indicate low voter turnout, overall.

A DVO CACY AND PU B L I C P O L I CY

In addition to the interactive public input sessions, the Chamber developed an online survey at www.DrivingCoweta. com, encouraging members to complete and share a hosted version of the survey, indicating areas within the county which

are of greatest concern. The online survey captured more than 600 responses throughout the 60-day campaign.

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Encouraging residents throughout Coweta to weigh-in on those facets of the environment which require attention or those aspects considered as priorities for local drivers, bikers, and pedestrians, the Chamber facilitated fifteen public input sessions throughout Coweta, with greater than 200 responses recorded.

37

COWetA

WORKs

discover your world Coweta Works is an innovative Chamber program that first launched in 2018. A high energy, hands-on, and interactive career exposition with activities across nine relevant career worlds, Coweta Works provides information to help students make smart choices for their future Designed for 8th-grade students from Coweta’s six public middle schools, with invitations also extended to private schools in Coweta County, this highly successful expo was born of a collaboration between the Chamber, the Coweta County Development Authority, and the Coweta County School System.

The now annual winter expo is a community collaboration, featuring industry leaders and local manufacturers, along with healthcare, public safety, automotive, utility providers, and others. Each of the nearly 40 original career presenters spent two consecutive days at the Central Educational Center sharing their specific “world” of work. In support of the event, community volunteers played an important role in keeping the expo running smoothly and expanding the student career path experience.

CHAMBER'S

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TA L E NT D E VE LO P M E NT

Cynthia Bennett

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selected for education fellowship Cynthia Bennett, Vice President of Advocacy and Talent Development at the Newnan-Coweta Chamber, was selected by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) to participate in a ten-month professional development program designed to assist in improving education and talent development outcomes in their communities.

The Fellowship for Education & Talent Development is an immersive executive development program that provides chamber professionals the ability to interact with peers, ACCE staff, and national experts. Through a combination of

Following continued positive feedback from students and teachers, planning began in August for the 2020 reprisal. Now scheduled to take place during an expanded three-day period in January, Coweta Works - Discover Your World features over 50 career presenters.

This talent development opportunity has created awareness among both students and educators about the exciting career options that exist in Coweta. Visitors leave the expo understanding more about Coweta’s workforce needs and the opportunities for education and training available through the CEC and via dual enrollment at both West Georgia Technical College and the University of West Georgia-Newnan.

in-person and virtual activities, fellows are exposed to a deep dive into the cutting-edge theories, approaches and best practices in talent development. Throughout the program, participants will focus on addressing specific education attainment or workforce development issues in their communities.

The Newnan-Coweta Chamber enjoys a rich history supporting meaningful education initiatives. The Chamber played an integral role in the development of Georgia’s original career academy, the Central Educational Center (CEC), more than 20 years ago. Today the Chamber is actively involved in a governance role with CEC, and in recent years, has been influential in the development and launch of the Georgia Consortium of Advanced Technical Training (GA CATT), the first of its kind nationally.

INAUGURAL

GA CAtt GRADUATES

graduates , enter coweta ’ s workforce

In May, hundreds of friends and family filled the auditorium at the Nixon Centre for Performing and Visual Arts to witness the West Georgia Technical College spring commencement exercises featuring dual-enrolled students from Coweta County’s three public High Schools.

Among the nearly 200 students, two earned, via their work in the Georgia Consortium for Advanced Technical Training (GA CATT), an Associate Degree - before high school graduation two nights later.

Empowering Georgia’s workforce Georgia Power is proud to support Coweta County School’s workforce development initiatives. We are honored to help prepare the next generation of Georgia’s workforce by working with chambers and other organizations that help local communities grow and prosper. It’s not just where we do business; it’s our home, too. Visit georgiapower.com/careers.

Colton McKeehan earns Associates Degree Left to right: Dr. Scott Rule, West Georgia Technical College, Cole McKeehan, Dr. Steve Barker, Coweta County Schools.

Photo courtesy of West Georgia Technical College

TA L EN T D EV ELO P M E NT

With leadership and support from Grenzenbach, a German producer of high-tech material handling solutions, and E.G.O. North America, a manufacturer of radiant heat elements and electronics components, the program provides more skilled labor for the American and international manufacturing sector. Other leading local manufacturers have included Groov-Pin, Hitachi, Kason, Winpak, Yamaha, and Yokogawa. Companies now joining the program include Blickle and Gerresheimer.

Graduating GA CATT students Jamie Kerr (left), Colton McKeehan, and Kyler Gunn (right) with instructor Richard Whitman. Photo courtesy of West Georgia Technical College

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This pioneering opportunity, supported by the Chamber and available first in Coweta County, has spread to other communities in Georgia. Coweta started what many hope will become a model that spreads nationwide. Josiah Henderson and Colton McKeehan, two Coweta students, completed the coursework to be the first students in America to earn Associates Degrees in Precision Manufacturing and Maintenance, simultaneous with high school graduation, via the model based on the German Apprenticeship program.

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HEROES

Unite

storied chamber program empowers coweta ’ s next generation of community leaders .

On June 11, 2019, twenty-eight Coweta professionals celebrated the completion of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber’s esteemed Leadership Coweta Alliance, becoming the 24th class to complete the rigorous 11-month program in Alliance history.

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TA L E NT D E VE LO P M E NT

Launched in 1995 by Georgia State Representative Lynn Smith in collaboration with other vested community changemakers including Dennis and Sally McEntire, Terry and Marth Ann Daviston, Bill and Marianne Thomasson, John Thrasher, and others to nurture Coweta’s trailblazers, the program endeavors to develop interest and ability to the benefit of the future leadership roles and long-term investment in the greater Coweta community.

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2019 and 2020 Co-Chairs (Left to Right): Amanda Fields, 2019; Scott Berta, 2020; Kalea James, 2020; Joe Crain III, 2019

The Leadership Coweta Alliance fosters a sense of place for graduates who effectively leverage community resources and connections to the benefit of personal and professional growth. A win-win for Coweta at large, this Chamber program personifies a dynamic approach to advancing local prosperity.

Led by the Chamber’s Cynthia Bennett, Vice-President of Advocacy and Talent Development, and 2019 Co-Chairs Amanda Fields of the Coweta County Development Authority and Joe Crain III of Crain Oil Company, this year’s class carried with it a superhero theme, aligning participants with teams centered on favorite comic book protagonists.

In each of the monthly Leadership Coweta Alliance classes, participants focused on such topics as Economic and Workforce Development, Health and Wellness, Film and Tourism, and Infrastructure and Government, typically facilitated by Fields and Crain. Alumni Alliance members also volunteered as Day Leaders taking on tasks such as coordinating guest speakers and arranging for visits to various locations throughout Coweta.

Meet The Leadership Coweta Class Of 2019 On June 11, 2019 the Newnan-Coweta Chamber recognized 28 Coweta County business leaders for their commitment to a near-yearlong leadership program, commencing with their collaborative project, a community herb garden on the Ruth Hill Elementary launchpad.

Justin Austin

Scott Berta

Volita Biscoe-Almon

Michelle Bright

Hal Brodnax

Betsy Burnette

Amanda Camp

Andrew Copeland

Joe Crain III

Amanda Fields

Jennifer Garcia

Kristina Hajzak

Harlan Hammack

Sara Headley (Beth)

Jim Ivey

Kalea James

Corey Johnson

Matthew Markham (Matt)

Kim Melhouse

Jem Morris

Anissa Patton

Dub Pearman

Latha Ravi

Jay Rice

JJ Thomasson

Jeff Treadwell

Jason Walton

Trae Westmoreland

Monica Yeoman

IB4E Coaching

IronPlanet

United Bank

Tiernan & Patrylo

West Georgia Technical College

co-Chair Crain Oil Company

Renee Horton

Renee Horton Agency, LLC | American Family Insurance

Georgia Power Company

Georgia Dept. of Economic Development

Georgia Pain and Spine Care

75 Jackson Properties

Buffalo Rock

Paramount Hospitality

Co-Chair Coweta County Development Authority

Streams Group

Fulton County Office of the Child Attorney

Foundation Christian Church

Cancer Treatment Centers of America

Newnan-Coweta Chamber

Fidelity Bank

Senoia City Council, Post 2

Coweta County Development Authority

Newnan Utilities

Fidelity Bank

NuLink WOW

The Flying Locksmiths South Atlanta

West Georgia Technical College

TA L EN T D EV ELO P M E NT

Coweta CASA, Inc.

Georgia Forestry Consulting

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Cancer Treatment Centers of America

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G N I L L O R N E W O N eeks to age 12 years — —6w

AmbassadoR

CoMMIttee The Ambassadors are known as the Chamber’s volunteer public relations team and are highly visible throughout the membership community, tasked

• Pre-K and Kindergarten • Weekly Before/After School • Drop-in care (limited availability) Staff trained in CPR / First Aid / Fire Satety

We provide quality childcare, which will build foundations of love, character, respect, and learning in the earliest years of each child’s life.

with engaging, encouraging, nurturing, and expanding relationships on behalf of the Chamber.

Ambassadors support Chamber events and programs, and provide guidance and mentorship to new and existing members, playing an essential role in the retention strategy of the Chamber to encourage engagement by way of a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Throughout the year, the Chamber recognizes the tremendous efforts of the Ambassadors via the Ambassador of the Month program, recognizing each exemplary leader via social media, member communications, and THRIVE, the quarterly business publication of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber.

The 2019 Ambassador Committee co-chairs are Kim Beasinger of Champion Cleaning Systems and Michelle Bright of Home2 Suites Newnan.

For additional information about the Ambassador program, contact Susan Kraut, Vice President of Strategy and Operations, at 770.253.2270.

212 Jefferson Parkway, Newnan, GA

678 - 673 - 6301 Hours: 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Email: newnan@foundation-academy.com Website: foundation-academy.com

Great Schools the Heart of

January Gina Lee, Four Points Construction

Coweta County

February | May Parker Griner, Hampton Inn Hotel Newnan | Paramount Hospitality

“A passionate and caring school system dedicated to excellence, energized by the notion of family, and committed to the success of each student.”

That is how the AdvancED Accreditation Review Committee described the Coweta County School System, following their review for five-year reaccreditation of our schools in 2016. According to the independent team’s evaluation, Coweta Schools performed at much higher levels than the average AdvancED-accredited learning institutions, in terms of teaching and learning, leadership capacity, and management of resources.

March Dorothea Schurr, Allstate Financial Services

April | August Charlotte Hollins, Coweta County School System

During accreditation, school system stakeholders – including students and parents, teachers and community members – described Coweta Schools in several ways:

“Student-Centered” “Caring” “Amazing” “Exceptional” “Accountable” “Safe” “Nurturing” “Rigorous” “Committed” “I would not want to be anywhere else.”

In the Coweta County School System, you will find schools among the top-performing in the state of Georgia and the nation: • On-time graduation rates and student performance on Georgia Milestones exams that well exceed state of Georgia averages.

• Student SAT and ACT performance that exceeds state and national averages.

• High rates of participation in Advanced Placement, college dualenrollment and apprenticeships and work-based learning.

June Amy Kendall, AFLAC

September Jason Lammers, Grenzebach Corporation

• Distinctions such as robust fine arts curriculum, outstanding athletic programs, a sophisticated technology environment including 1-to-1 pairing of students with Chromebook devices, and other advanced opportunities for students.

• Honors that include a AP Stem and Humanities distinctions, state Reward schools, Georgia School Boards Association Exemplary School Board, state financial awards, and the Center for American Progress’ “Best Return on Educational Investment” distinction.

From academics to the arts to athletics – from college prep to career readiness – Coweta County Schools are committed to ensuring the success of every student. We invite you to visit our schools, tour the Central Educational Center College and Career Academy, or attend a performance at the Donald W. Nixon Centre for Performing and Visual Arts.

October Kaitrell Hall, Allstate Insurance | Diane Parker

November Shelby Tidwell, Dogwood Veterinary Hospital and Laser Center

To learn more go to cowetaschools.net or call 770-254-5551

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Local Business Partners

Kiwanis | Newnan-Coweta Chamber

Yokogawa | Cargill | Newnan Utilities

Angel House | The Rutledge Center

Variety Wholesalers | Coweta County Schools

Cruising For Kids | Golf Life Ladies

Cancer Treatment Centers of America

Mantracker | Coweta Ferst Foundation

Coweta-Fayette EMC

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Community Involvement

WO R L D CL AS S C HA M B ER

Cell: 770-550-4386

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WoMen OF

PRoSPERity

business women ’ s alliance

The Business Women’s Alliance, sponsored by Progressive Heating, Air Conditioning, and Plumbing in partnership with Carrier, enjoyed another productive year, featuring a variety of thoughtful speakers who offered thought-provoking keynotes at the tri-annual luncheons.

In March, Karen Kulinich, CFO of Smith Automotive Group and Nissan of Newnan, addressed a crowd of over sixty members and guests on the topic of owning and maintaining one’s professional image and integrity. In the competitive automotive industry, primarly dominated by male influence, Kulinich has out-performed many of her peers with a proven track record and regional star quality.

The second in the luncheon series, September’s event featured Shan Cooper, a regional c-suite icon who serves alongside forty senior executives within the Atlanta metro community comprised of CEOs, university presidents, and civic leaders as the Executive Director for the Atlanta Committee for Progress (ACP). ACP serves as the cabinet for the city’s mayor.

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Shan’s address provided insight into her success, empowering the thought-forward audience to be themselves, consider personal value, be expressive, be a good listener, offer solutions to employers, and to be transparent within themselves about their non-negotiables.

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The third and final of the series welcomed Chamber executive turned independent consultant Anissa Starns, CEO of Swingbridge Partners, LLC. Annissa shared anecdotes from more than 25 years of experience in non-profit and chamber of commerce management. She has enjoyed an extensive career as an advocate for business interests, including CEO positions with several chambers of commerce.

Passionate about helping businesses and organizations grow customer, member, and donor relationships, Anissa has presented training and workshops to more than 30,000 business owners and non-profit executives to help them build capacity within their organizations.

Shan Cooper, Executive Director of the Atlanta Committee for Progress, shares wit and wisdom with members and guests at the second in the three-part Business Women’s Alliance luncheon series.

Developing and expanding upon the knowledge of professional female leaders in the Coweta community is at the forefront of the Business Women’s Alliance mission. BWA programs are structured to offer an abundance of opportunities for participants to learn about best practices and harness the tools necessary to persist as productive and informed community influencers and stakeholders.

MeMBeR

ENGAGeMEnt

business - after - hours and power networking lunch

Nearly every month, existing and prospective Chamber members gather at a local member business during the lunch or cocktail hour to enjoy a curated opportunity to connect with peers while establishing and renewing relationships.

In 2019, we welcomed 9 Business-After-Hours hosts and 3 Power Networking Lunch hosts, who opened their doors to hundreds of Chamber members, eager to learn more about their businesses and services.

March Business-After-Hours presented by Lillian Gardens

February Business-After-Hours presented by Skyzone

April Business-After-Hours presented by The Venue at Murphy Lane and Contemporary Catering

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January Power Networking Lunch presented by Office Depot | Office Max

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For more information about hosting either of these two engaging events, contact Katie Stepp, Member Relations and Event Manager at katie@newnancowetachamber.org.

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May Golf Classic Business-After-Hours presented by NuLink | WOW!

September Business-After-Hours presented by Kempâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dalton West

May Power Networking Lunch on the LINC

October Power Networking Lunch presented by SELCAT

June Business-After-Hours presented by RockSalt Milk Bar

November Business-After-Hours presented by Dry Cleaning Connections and PrimeTime Eventz

December Business-After-Hours presented by Piedmont Newnan Hospital August Business-After-Hours presented by Joy Barnes Berkshire Hathaway and Blue Fern Merchant

GoLF

CLASSIC

Ever dream about running away to join the circus? On May 1st, we did just that at the 34th annual NCC Golf Classic, presented by Piedmont Newnan and ClubCorp.

This high-flying adventure couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have been possible without the support of our invested business partners who, year-after-year, return to support the premier tournament south of Atlanta.

The Southern Credit Union reaches new heights as the winner of Expo WOW.

Toyota of Newnan touts second place for high-flying Expo WOW

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Knox Pest Control once again stomps the competition as 1st place tournament champs

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Attracting more than 200 players and over 400 attendees, the tournament includes ample sponsor and exhibitor opportunities, allowing Chamber members to showcase their businesses and services as an integral part of one of our most important fundraising events.

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ALL

ABOARD

the 2019 winter wonderland bigexpo express December 4th brought together hundreds of business and service providers and greater-Coweta community members for the 25th annual Winter Wonderland BIGExpo, presented by Delta Community Credit Union.

This highly anticipated event reliably carries with it an opportunity for business-to-business and business-toconsumer promotions and lead generation, but this year’s Expo followed last year’s model in reflecting the spirit of the season via the Delta Community Giving Tree.

Frosty’s Filling Station sponsor Buffalo Rock thinks out of the box in recreating famed Polar Express

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The Chamber’s Valerie Ward and Nora Ann Wood at the ready to welcome attendees

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DCCU partnered with the Chamber in soliciting donations to the benefit of the Coweta County Family Connection’s RePack the BackPack Resource Expo. In exchange for free admission to the Expo, guests donated school supplies to the benefit of Coweta students during the annual drive in January 2020. Hundreds of local students benefited from the effort and CCFC Coordinator Carol Bresinger reported a “carload of supplies” to the tune of over 1,500 items totaling over $2,000.

Also carried over from 2018’s successful initiative, attendees enjoyed added value via the Nissan of Newnan Santa’s Satchel Goodie Bag and Santa Tracker Punch Card, the latter of which ensured quality time with vendors and a chance for attendees to win one of several exceptional offerings generously donated by exhibitors. Included in the giveaway was a fully decorated Delta Community Tree in the image of the Polar Express and decked with themed ornaments, festively provided courtesy of Expo participants.

PTC OB/GYN wins top honors for Expo WOW

Chamber’s Ambassador committee serves Hot Hot Hot Hot Chocolate

The 26th Annual BIGExpo will take place at the Newnan Centre on November 4, 2020, with a reinvigorated theme and additional value-added offerings for guests and exhibitors.

For additional information or to inquire about a booth, please contact Susan Kraut, Vice-President of Strategy and operations at susan@newnancowetachamber.org

CuttINGs

Chipotle Mexican Grill

Tidal Wave Auto Spa

Business Women’s Golf League

Maximum One Realty Partners

Southern States Bank

Keep Newnan Beautiful Planters

Coweta FORCE

Mail & Office

A Self-help Assistance Program – Tools for Empowerment

March 14, 2019

April 24, 2019

February 14, 2019

April 18, 2019

April 26, 2019

March 7, 2019

April 22, 2019

April 26, 2019

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February 1, 2019

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2019 RIBBON

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The Vinings at Newnan Lakes

MAU Workforce Solutions “Spring Into a New Job”

Element Funding

Art & Jake’s New Patio

Frios Gourmet Pops

New Renality Home Services Newnan

The Promenade Apartments

Savvy Crafters Vinyl and Gifts

Progressive Heating, Air, and Plumbing

May 8, 2019

May 30, 2019

May 16, 2019

June 18, 2019

September 19, 2019

July 11, 2019

September 24, 2019

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September 18, 2019

June 28, 2019

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Your CBD Store Newnan October 15, 2019

Atlanta Oral and Facial Surgery October 24, 2019

Direct Auto

November 12, 2019

Georgia Bone & Joint’s MRI Department

Kenneth Akey Pediatrics

Walk of Faith House and River Life

Southside Family Chiropractic

The Parlor Salon and Dry Bar

Rejoyce Boutique

Piedmont Physicians OBGYN

Edward Jones – Derrick Cummings

Modern Woodmen

Advanced Aesthetics

United Bank

June 3, 2019

July 17, 2019

July 19, 2019

October 1, 2019

June 6, 2019

August 23, 2019

October 10, 2019

November 20, 2019

December 6, 2019

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September 26, 2019

June 5, 2019

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WeLCoME

NEW MEMBERS

2019 has welcomed over 125 new or reengaging members and we’re thrilled to introduce them to #chamberlife! Please join us in welcoming these businesses across the threshold of prosperity’s front door!

Absolute Weight Loss and Wellness Advanced Aesthetics PC AFLAC Air Logic Heating & Air Conditioning Airgroup Atlanta Allison Ziegler - Bush Real Estate Alston Event Rentals American Cancer Society Ashmore Properties LLC Atlanta Oral & Facial Surgery Becker’s School Supply Beltline Bariatric and Surgical Group, LLC BMW of South Atlanta, Sons Auto Group Brain Balance Achievement Centers Brightmoor Hospice Business Women’s Golf League Cabinet Envy

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Caduceus USA

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Cakes by Debbie Camp Gladiator Center for Technology & Environmental, LLC Chipotle Mexican Grill Clarks Plumbing Coldwell Team Compass Travel, LLC Dream Vacations Concerned Women of Power (CWOP)

Coweta College Planning

Gig Bag Media, LLC

Coweta FORCE

Gordon State College

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

Great South Harley Davidson

CYMANA, Inc.

Heartland Business Solutions

David Taylor and Associates

HJC Holding LLC

Debrow Law

Honda of Newnan

Diamond Training Services, LLC

Horne & Griffis, P.C.

Downtown Sign Shop

Huggins Cleaning Service

DRMP Inc.

Humming Ink

Earthscape Designs Inc

Inserv360

Edward Jones - Derrick Cummings

Interim-Global

Edward Jones - Mike Lonas

J. Dean Insurance: Medicare plans & more

Element Funding Eleven 11 Accounting Services, LLC Elisha Wilson Elliott Electric Supply

Jersey Mike’s Subs Jimmy D Images Joella’s Hot Chicken

Etiquette

Keep Calm Home Concierge

FAKS Allied Health Education Center

Kid Run Transportation Kimble’s Food By Design

Family Orthodontics

KodeGistics Design

Fayette County News

La Quinta Inn & Suites

Finley’s Boutique

Lead Edge Design Group, Inc.

Firehouse Pressure Washing LLC

Leaf & Bean Newnan

Food for Thought Catering

Los Abuelos Mexican Grill

Foundation Academy

Mail and Office

Friends of LINC, Inc

Marine South

Frios Gourmet Pops

Meredith Kavanaugh Photography

Georgia Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, Inc.

NatureLink,LLC

Georgia Department of Labor

New Renality Newnan Home Services

Corvaglia Closures USA Inc

Georgia Military College

Newnan Ink Screen Printing

Costco Wholesale

Georgia Rheumatology Clinic

Northpoint Roofing Systems

Novus Healthcare Numerical Billing And Coding Office Depot One Divine Design One Roof Outreach Outfront Media PhySlim Physician Guided Weight Loss & Wellness Plugged In Electrical Services LLC Poriferous, LLC Pork Pie Pictures Promenade at Newnan Crossing PWT Advisory Services, LLC QFC Corporation, Inc Rapid Track Service, Inc RBW Enterprises, Inc Regions Mortgage ResCare Resource MFG RiverLife Salve LLC Senoia Electric LLC

Our pediatric orthopedic physician at Georgia Bone & Joint is a recognized leader in the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric orthopedic injuries and conditions. Dr. Jayson McMath specializes in providing the highest level of care and compassion to children experiencing orthopedic injuries or conditions. As the only pediatric orthopedist on the south side of Atlanta, Dr. McMath provides a wide range of services, from congenital limb deformities and fracture care, to adolescent sports injuries and scoliosis.

Jayson McMath, MD, is a board-certified pediatric orthopedic surgeon who is a fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. He joined Georgia Bone & Joint in 2006 to fulfill the ever-increasing demand for pediatric orthopedic services in the South Atlanta region. Dr. McMath also has extensive training in both general adult orthopedics and accepts patients of all ages and performs knee and hip replacements (including the new anterior hip approach).

Shanki Physiques Beauty & Body Spa Southside Family Chiropractic - Newnan Starwalk Events Sunshine Botanicals Test Pilot Creative Inc

Trademaster Installations, LLC True North Investments U.S. Business Products, Inc. Virginia Elliot Walk of Faith House Warner Summers Architecture and Interior Design Watercrest of Newnan Waterscape Nails & Spa Welcome Wagon Your CBD Store Newnan Youth Unity in the Community, INC

Move Better. Feel Better.

LIVE BETTER.

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The Veggie Patch

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The Parlor Salon and Dry Bar

Orthopedic Specialists | Spine Center | Physical Therapy | MRI | Surgery Center NEWNAN 1755 Hwy. 34 E., Suite 2200, Newnan, GA 30265 770-502-2175

PEACHTREE CITY 4000 Shakerag Hill, Suite 100, Peachtree City, GA 30269 770-626-5340

GeorgiaBoneandJoint.org

Ankle | Back | Elbow | Foot | Hand | Hip | Joint Replacement | Knee 55 Neck | Orthobiologics | Pediatric Orthopedics | Shoulder | Spine | Wrist

ADVertiSERs INDEX Buffalo Rock ............................................................... 44 Central Educational Center ........................................... 31 CMIT Solutions of Atlanta Southern Crescent .................... 18 Coweta County School System ....................................... 43 Coweta-Fayette EMC ................................................... 23 Dermatology Institute ................................................... 17 E.G.O. North America Inc. ............................................ 35 ELEVATE Coweta Students ............................................ 14 Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Newnan ......... 16 Foundation Academy ................................................... 42 Georgia Bone & Joint ................................................... 55 Georgia Power ............................................................ 39 Infiniti of South Atlanta/Heritage Volkswagen .................... 19 Jack Peek’s Sales ..........................................................2 Jersey Mike’s Subs ...................................................... 25 Kemp’s Dalton West Flooring ........................................ 25 Knox Home Furnishings ..................................................7 KRB Communications ................................................... 36 Lynn Smith, State Representative .................................... 29 Modern Woodmen/Danny Nungesser .............................. 30 Newnan Utilities ............................................................5 Peachtree City OB/GYN ................................................ 37 Piedmont Newnan Hospital............................................ 15

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Randolph Williamson ................................................... 29

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The Cellar .................................................................. 11 PrintSource ................................................................ 13 United Bank .................................................................4 Watercrest Newnan...................................................... 27 West Georgia Boat Center ...............................................9