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FEATURES ISSUE 1 | FALL 2018

10 Trae Westmoreland: Developing Authority

C. DAVIS

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Grads Make Good Storied Chamber Program Foretells a Community United

Designated Driver SouthTowneâ€™s Bill Hall Takes the Wheel

Unexpected Moments of Happiness Chamber Brings New Energy to Small Business Showcase

Brace for Impact Local Campaign for Social Good

Five for the Future Rising Business Leaders Share Personal Insights

Impact in Action CEC Alumni Serve as a Reminder of Coweta Magic

The CEO on the CEC Exclusive Q&A with Mark Whitlock ON THE COVER

We asked our designer to capture the history of the Central Educational Center with a visual that was uncluttered and precise. Born of a Coweta community collaboration, itâ€™s important that the past, present and future of the CEC realize representation.

Celenna Davis, owner Tel: (678) 618-0361 Email: cdavis24@outlook.com

Pictured, left to right: Mark Whitlock, CEO, Dr. Joe Harless, CEC visionary, David Keller, CEC Board Representative, Advanced Manufacturing - Fall 2018

- Fall 2018

DRIVING COWETA’S FUTURE Candace Boothby President/CEO Newnan-Coweta Chamber I have been waiting fifteen years to write this letter. During my time with the Newnan-Coweta Chamber, I’ve witnessed so many changes. Some have been skillfully crafted in collaboration with our ever-insightful Board of Directors, community leaders, and talented team of staff and supporters. Others have happened as a matter of course in serving at the helm of a dynamic business community in an equally enterprising region of Georgia. I always say that if you’re not progressing, you’re moving backward, and I consider myself - all of us - incredibly fortunate to live and work among so many others who have a vested interest in the future of Coweta. These are people who care deeply about how we grow, not only for their own interests but for the collective interests of future generations. Coweta is magical. I say this all the time, too. We are a community of inspired leaders who, along with the Chamber, have come together through the years to serve as drivers in the many innovations that have positioned our county as exemplary. From our efforts to establish and foster the ingenuity that is the Central Educational Center to the thoughtful creation of the Georgia Consortium for Advanced Technical Training (GA CATT) and onto the film industry in rendering Coweta the “Hollywood” of the south, we’re growing, we’re thriving, and we’re progressing. Amidst this positive change and the resulting accolades, however, something vital has been missing. To date, we haven’t enjoyed a single, consolidated means by which we can share the incredible stories of the impact and influence of our collective hard work on behalf of increased economic prosperity for Coweta business. Ladies and gentleman, I proudly present to you THRIVE. Through this quarterly business publication, we’ll cross the threshold of Prosperity’s Front Door in drilling down into the stories that got us to where we are today and the people who will lead the charge in the promise of a prosperous future. This is our very first step and we’d be honored to have you alongside us on this journey.

Chamber Mission: To increase economic prosperity for our members.

Publisher Newnan-Coweta Chamber Executive Editor/Creative Director Susan M. Kraut susan@newnancowetachamber.org Sales and Business Development Colleen D. Mitchell colleen@newnancowetachamber.org Graphic Designers Keith Brazie, Porkpie Pictures Susan M. Kraut Paul Lewis, Luz Design Mark Sprague, Snapshot Graphics Publication Layout Mark Sprague, Snapshot Graphics Editor/Proofreader Linda Almond Contributors Katie Anderson Jenny Enderlin Alex McRae, McWriters Ink Angela McRae, McWriters Ink Photographers Keith Brazie, Porkpie Pictures Linda Edmonds, Portraits by Linda E. To contribute: THRIVE welcomes your ideas. Please send suggestions 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. Reproduction of this publication in part or in 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 receive a copy.

A Quarterly Business Publication of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber 23 Bullsboro Drive, Newnan , GA 770.253.2270 susan@newnancowetachamber.org - Fall 2018

PROSPERITY’S FRONT DOOR

Chamber member-businesses are doing great things to advance prosperity in and around Coweta. Let’s peek in on just a few!

Impact: Quality of Life

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Impact: Business

Kudos to Bridging the Gap for the great work they did in our community this summer! According to a recent article in The Newnan Times-Herald, “The community outreach program was prepared to hand out 7,500 lunches to foodinsecure kids over the summer. Instead, it handed out 9,300 lunches with the help of local churches and organizations.”

Impact: Education Let’s give a well-earned gold star to the Coweta County School System! If you haven’t heard the news, our school system recently announced that Coweta students outperformed the state on the High School Milestone Assessment exams!

Impact: Business Casey Corporate Transportation has been designated as an approved vendor of the Super Bowl LIII Business Connect program, one of 200 diverse businesses in metro Atlanta identified as a certified, special event production company.

Exciting news for Newnan’s Cheney Thomasson: The Augusta Economic Development Authority has named Cheney as their existing industry coordinator for the EDA. Cheney’s father, Jim Thomasson of 75 Jackson Properties, serves on our Chamber’s Board of Directors.

Impact: Healthcare Five of Piedmont Healthcare’s regional hospitals have achieved certification for the first time to the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System, reflecting the organization’s long-term commitment to quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction. Piedmont’s hospitals are the only ones in metro Atlanta to have received this certification from DNV GL – Business Assurance.

In Other News...

...three member stories in just three sentences! The Candy Station’s Chef D. Lynn’s grandmamma owns Big Mama’s Kitchen, a restaurant in Omaha, Nebraska, which was featured on the Food Network show Diners, DriveIns and Dives. Paul Snellings, President of Four Points Construction, was one of the UGA team captains in 1998, along with Kirby Smart, UGA’s current head football coach. Ms. Jada, one of the after-school teachers at the Caterpillar House Children’s Academy of Newnan, tried out for American Idol in Orlando.

A private, not-for-profit organization serving nearly 2 million patients across Georgia, Piedmont is transforming healthcare, creating a destination known for the best clinicians and a one-of-a-kind experience that always puts patients first.

Coweta County Development Authority’s Business Retention & Expansion Program targets existing manufacturing and distribution companies in Coweta County. A brief visit from our staff helps us to: Identify needs, challenges, and opportunities within your business Connect you with tangible solutions We can help in the areas of: Workforce Development/Training Expansion Services

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Coweta County Development Authority | 770-304-1777

This program is a FREE SERVICE provided by the Coweta County Development Authority. Contact us today to request a visit!

Amanda Fields, Director, Existing Industries & Workforce Development | afields@coweta.ga.us 8

- Fall 2018

TRAE WESTMORELAND Developing Authority by Alex McRae

NOV 2007

“We check all those boxes now,” Westmoreland says. “There are other places in the state and the nation where economic development is difficult, but that’s not the case for Coweta. Right now, we can compete with anyone.”

Rolls-Royce North America announced it had chosen a onethousand-acre parcel of land in Crosspointe, Virginia as the site of a manufacturing facility for Rolls’ Trent 1000 engines, which had been designed to power Boeing’s new 787 Dreamliner aircraft.

And competition is definitely the name of the game.

Rolls-Royce planned to invest $500 million in a facility that would eventually employ five hundred people.

Westmoreland played high school football and says the comparison between sports and business is accurate.

Only a handful of people knew that Coweta County, Georgia, was among the final three sites considered for the RollsRoyce facility. Among them was Trae Westmoreland, who now serves as president of the Coweta County Development Authority. In 2005, Westmoreland was part of Georgia Power’s economic development team. He was selected to escort a RollsRoyce vice president on a tour of Coweta County. The potential manufacturing site, a one-thousand-acre parcel snuggled next to I-85 and adjacent to the NewnanCoweta County Airport, was perfect. The rest of the industrial development package was not.

The players wear business suits and high heels instead of shoulder pads and helmets, but millions of dollars and thousands of jobs are at stake, and the fight for huge economic development prizes is brutal.

“Development is definitely a team sport,” he says. “Everybody has to be on the same page and running the same play to score. I spend a lot of time out in the community and with our leadership making sure that we all know the play and what we need to do in order to win or locate a project. I count on a lot of people in this community to assist.” “We just want to get looks,” he says. “Our first job is to keep from being eliminated from a search. If we get them down here, they see we have a great product, and we’ve got a shot.”

Coweta’s retail juggernaut, the Ashley Park lifestyle center, was still under construction. Existing shopping, dining, and retail offerings along Bullsboro Drive were not impressive. Coweta’s healthcare facilities were adequate but showing their age. “The site was fine, but those other things were negatives for the Rolls-Royce selection committee,” Westmoreland says. He quickly adds, “We don’t have those problems anymore.” Westmoreland says companies looking to relocate or build new facilities concentrate on four areas: available land, cost of doing business, workforce availability, and quality of life, with a major emphasis on educational opportunities.

W E C A N C OMP ET E WI T H AN Y O NE 10

- Fall 2018

Westmoreland started his career on the economic development teams at Southern Company and Georgia Power. In 2014, seeking a change of pace, he signed on as sales director for Apogee Interactive, which develops web-based energy analysis and customer-engagement software for utilities. He admits that while high tech was exciting, development stayed on his mind. Westmoreland’s wife, Blair, is employed by Deloitte, a global firm offering audit, consulting, tax, and tax advisory services. Her specialty is advising on tax credits and incentives for economic development projects.

HAS A NEW LOOK!

“When she talked about her work, it made me jealous,” Westmoreland says. He decided to get back in the game, and on January 2, 2018, took over as president of the Coweta County Development Authority. Because of its location—split by I-85 and less than thirty miles south of the world’s busiest airport—Coweta has always attracted shipping and distribution facilities. In the last two decades, Coweta’s manufacturing base has expanded as companies continue to prosper, flourish, and grow. Piedmont Newnan Hospital and Cancer Treatment Centers of America’s Newnan facility have attracted dozens of new ancillary healthcare facilities employing thousands of workers, making Coweta County a healthcare destination second to none. Coweta’s public and private schools are routinely recognized for excellence, and the addition of new campuses at West Georgia Tech and the University of West Georgia complete the local educational package. Coweta’s well-trained workforce is one of its strongest assets, and Westmoreland says new vocational training programs at the Central Educational Center plus the addition of the first GA CATT (Consortium for Advanced Technical Training), a dual vocational training program, stand out with industrial clients. The next step in Coweta’s development may have the greatest impact on the county. Westmoreland is determined to attract a major office development. A recent study by Georgia Tech showed that over 70 percent of Coweta’s working-age population with a job work outside Coweta County. Most of those commuters travel to Atlanta or Peachtree City, according to Westmoreland. “We are the definition of a bedroom community,” he says. “But most people prefer to live near where they work. We have the complete package to satisfy anyone’s retail, shopping, and entertainment needs, and we also have great housing.” “The fact that Coweta started those programs on their - Fall 2018

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own impresses companies looking to locate or expand here,” Westmoreland says.” It shows we’re taking steps to improve everything we do in Coweta County.”

CHAMBER IMPACT

Westmoreland is convinced Coweta is the perfect location for a major office complex employing high-salaried workers. The question is how to start the ball rolling.

“The assets are in place,” he says. “Everybody in the economic development community is on the same page. The next step is to identify a company we’d really like to have and get aggressive in pursuing them. It just takes one company to make the leap and we’re off and running. I think we’re ready.”

Business is one of six Pillars of Prosperity; economic development is essential to our continued success. A recent study by Georgia Tech revealed that 43 percent of employees who work in Coweta live in another county. Even if manufacturing employees live outside the county, every dollar of capital investment in manufacturing facilities delivers seven dollars of economic impact to a community. Trae is a member of the Chamber Executive Committee and the Development Authority represents one of over 50 Enhanced Investors.

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- Fall 2018

Just Pho Fun: More About Trae Trae Westmoreland and his wife, Blair, are the parents of three children: fourteen-year-old son Acton, thirteen-year-old daughter Kate, and six-month-old son Lawson. The Westmorelands attend Southside Church and are active in church activities, including volunteer work with the Georgia Baptist Children’s Home in Palmetto. Before taking the helm of the County County Development Authority, Trae was on the economic development team at Georgia Power. In that capacity, he assisted with the creation of more than 5,200 jobs and worked closely with companies that delivered more than $575 million in capital investment in the State of Georgia. Some of those locations included SANY America, Dick’s Sporting Goods Distribution Center, Clorox Distribution Center, and Dendreon.

Photos by Keith Brazie, Porkpie Pictures

Trae has traveled extensively and admits he enjoys a bowl of pho, a Vietnamese soup made with broth, rice, noodles, and meat, including tripe. “I don’t know what that says about me,” he says. “But it just wouldn’t be pho without tripe.” Trae is the son of Lynn Westmoreland, who represented Coweta County for twelve years in the U.S. House of Representatives and was recently named to the Amtrak board of directors by President Donald Trump.

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- Fall 2018

GRADS MAKE GOOD STORIED CHAMBER PROGRAM FORETELLS A COMMUNITY UNITED by Susan M. Kraut A community’s health and well-being are often measured by the volunteer and civic contributions of its leaders. Those who serve on the boards, alongside municipal authorities, and on local commissions join forces with others who lead community groups, head non-profit organizations and serve as elected officials to render a positive and lasting impact. Existing and emerging leaders are an important part of the continuing development of Coweta County. Our cities and towns are fluid environments which require the thoughtful input of community members who are as dynamic as they are diverse. It’s vested citizens who take on the roles necessary to face the issues, plan for the future, and champion the people of our community. In order to inform these important roles, our leaders must be astutely aware of the challenges, the opportunities, and the interdependencies of the many sectors of Coweta County. In 1995, Leadership Coweta was launched by Georgia State Representative Lynn Smith in collaboration with other vested changemakers including Dennis and Sally McEntire, Terry and Martha Ann Daviston, Bill and Marianne Thomasson, John Thrasher, and others in an effort to nurture Coweta’s trailblazers, developing interest and ability to the benefit of future leadership roles and a long-term investment in our local communities. “There was a great deal of change and transition in our community in 1995, the year I became President of the Chamber Board. The Board was a mix of the right leaders at the right time who recognized the need for continuity and communication as we navigated the changing dynamics and new ideas,” Lynn Smith recalls. Since then, 23 years’ worth of local champions have gone on to form flourishing, symbiotic relationships with their peers, vesting in meeting the needs of a changing Coweta and lending their time, talents, and dedication to ensuring a prosperous future for Cowetans. Live, work, and play serve as three of the primary cornerstones of our community messaging, but it’s no ordinary citizen that gives of themselves to such an extent in ensuring that we are, most importantly, thriving. Not only does this experience solidify community vestment, but Leadership Coweta 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. Coweta County is expected to welcome over 30,000 new residents in the coming decade. From manufacturing and new business to healthcare, education, tourism, and cultural arts, this is a very exciting time for business in Coweta. Leadership Coweta graduates are poised to serve at the helm of this movement, both in leading the charge and serving as some of the worthiest benefactors. Classroom to community, LC grads THRIVE!

…a mix of the right leaders at the right time Matt Brass, Georgia State Senate “Leadership Coweta equipped me with the fundamentals I needed to be a successful leader in my community and state. I built relationships and developed communication skills I utilize on a day in and day out basis. I will always treasure my time spent with the current and future leaders of Coweta County.”

John Thrasher, Josey, Young & Brady “I believe the first step in effective community activism is to understand the key challenges the community is facing. Throughout its history, Leadership Coweta has done an excellent job in bringing together a diverse group of community members to better understand those challenges and advocate for solutions. It is the interaction among class members that is Leadership Coweta’s secret sauce. Since moving to Newnan in 1990, I have had the opportunity to serve in a leadership capacity in a number of community organizations. Two of my favorites are ongoing efforts that began a number of years ago and have involved many dedicated community volunteers.”

Joe Crain III, Crain Oil Company “As a life-long Coweta resident, Leadership Coweta provided me with an incredibly unique opportunity to get to know this community from a new perspective. The knowledge and confidence I gained from taking this class has been instrumental in my growth as a person and community member. Since completing the program, I am motivated to reach deeper into this community. I am currently serving as the Treasurer for the Board of Directors for Community in Schools.”

- Fall 2018

MEET THE LEADERSHIP COWETA CLASS OF 2019

JJ Thomasson 75 Jackson Properties

Jeff Treadwell Buffalo Rock Company

Justin Austin Hal Brodnax Cancer Treatment Cancer Treatment Centers of America Centers of America

Amanda Camp Trae Westmoreland Coweta CASA Inc. Coweta County Development Authority

Kristina Hajzak Fidelity Bank

Kalea James Fidelity Bank

Jason Walton Foundation Christian Church

Anissa Patton Fulton County Office of the Child Attorney

Matthew Markham Georgia Dept. of Economic Development

Jay Rice Georgia Pain and Spine Care

Jem Morris Georgia Power Company

Harlan Hammack IB4E Coaching

Janiene Mallory Kaiser Permanente

Betsy Burnette Newnan Utilities

Jennifer Garcia Newnan-Coweta Chamber

LeCorey Johnson NuLink | WOW

Michelle Bright Paramount Hospitality

Renee Horton Renee Horton Agency, LLC

Andrew Copeland Ritchie Bros.

Dub Pearman Senoia City Councilman, Post 2

Jim Ivey Streams Group

Latha Ravi The Flying Locksmiths

William Atkins The Salvation Army

Kim Melhouse Tiernan & Patrylo

Scott Berta Tree Protection Supply

Beth Headley United Bank

Volita Biscoe-Almon West Georgia Technical College

Monica Yeoman West Georgia Technical College

Amanda Fields Co-Chair Coweta County Development Authority

Joe Crain III Co-Chair Crain OIl Company

CHAMBER IMPACT The Newnan-Coweta Chamberâ€™s Leadership Coweta program has long-served as a sustainable source of local pioneers who, through the program, have become proven community partners. LC alumni include Georgia State Senator Mattt Brass, Dr. Tonya Whitlock, Vice-President of Student Affairs at West Georgia Technical College, Amanda Fields, Director of Existing Industries and Work Development at the Coweta County Development Authority, and Joe Crain III of Crain Oil. - Fall 2018

For more than 20 years, Leadership Coweta has provided participants a better understanding of how this community works, the opportunity to build relationships with the regionâ€™s leaders and inspiration to use their talents to serve the community. Leadership Coweta participants represent a diverse group in terms of race, gender and occupation. Individuals represent areas such as business, social services, government and cultural and educational organizations. 15

T H R E E C H E E R S F O R YO U R 5 - S TA R AC C R E D I T E D C H A M B E R A N D 2 0 1 5 N AT I O N A L C H A M B E R O F T H E Y E A R !

Day-after-day our mission of increasing economic prosperity for our members has us working for YOU. Every initiative, each strategy, and countless offerings of value are devised with our business community in mind. Every now and then, we just need to toot our own horn. Thanks to our members for taking a moment to tout the goodness and share the good word!

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.

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.

Guy Ward

Ryan Smith

Tim Smith

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 to my professional growth.

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 chamber members. Taking part in several of the available programs has made me feel connected and engaged.

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Designated Driver SouthTowne’s Steve Mader hands the wheel to new GM, Bill Hall by Jenny Enderlin “I think as you go through life, you have to make the best decisions possible. Shortcuts sometimes are easy to take, but you always have to do it the right way,” reflects Steve Mader, who is retiring from SouthTowne Motors after 26 years. He believes it is best to pursue “not necessarily what’s best for you or for the business, but what’s best for all concerned.” Mader ran his company under this mantra since opening doors in 1992, after purchasing a defunct dealership and rehiring the two-dozen former employees. Over the years, his business has expanded significantly, now employing nearly 200 people. After 26 years of ownership and 42 years in the industry, Mader made the difficult decision to retire and seek out a new General Manager. Of the candidates, one stood out. Impressive experience and tremendous references put Bill Hall behind the wheel. In August, Hall took over at SouthTowne Motors. The son of a coal miner, Hall grew up in a small town outside of Pittsburg, working his way through college and graduating magna cum laude with a degree in management. While many of his peers went on to pursue advanced degrees, Bill set off on an adventure. “I drove by myself with a couple hundred dollars to Atlanta from Pennsylvania on the day that I graduated college. I didn’t know anybody, and I just started selling cars and never got out of the business,” says Hall. He worked his way up from sales to finance, then to sales manager, general sales manager and even consulting for General Motors before eventually owning his own dealership. Taking up the mantle at SouthTowne Motors, he feels that “It’s an opportunity that doesn’t come along a lot.” Hall is enthusiastic about the company, saying “It’s a great location -- a great store in a great city with all the potential in the world -- and I just decided that this was the place I wanted to be.” His goals are to continue to grow the company, keeping it rooted in the community, and make it a place where everyone who lives in and around Coweta will want to do business. Says Hall of Mader, “You couldn’t ask for a better person to run this store for as long as he has. He grew it, basically -- it grew on his back,” adding “I’ve got some big shoes to fill, but I’ll do what I can and hopefully take over right where Steve left off.”

Steve Mader and Bill Hall, New SouthTowne GM

Chamber honors Mader at Small Business Awards Luncheon

As for Mader, he plans to thin his schedule, but remain involved with the charities that he loves like Boys & Girls Club and Cancer Treatment Centers of America, where he sits on the board of directors. Those who will miss Mader don’t have to worry, though. “I can almost guarantee that you’re going to trip over me!” he says with a laugh.

- Fall 2018

UNEXPECTED MOMENTS OF HAPPINESS The 2018 Small Business Awards and Celebration Luncheon yielded a fresh approach to honoring Coweta’s energetic small business community with a new format, new accolades, and an inspiring keynote presentation. Join us as we look back at some of the “UMoHs” that we shared at the 7th annual celebration, presented by SouthTowne Motors of Newnan and UBS Financial Services, Inc. Steve Mader embraces his whimsical side with colorful event decor.

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Tim Smith of Moto-Tec-it receives high honors as an award finalist.

Crain Oil is recognized as one of Coweta’s Legacy Businesses.

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COWETA’S LEADING LEGACIES by Jenny Enderlin

Cool or Creepy?

The reimagined Small Business Awards and Celebration Luncheon carried with it a new honor for some of Coweta’s most treasured small businesses.

the Chamber, Kiwanis, and the United Way. The brothers’ sons — Jess and Tom — work at the company and each has young families who may also one day pick up the mantle.

More than 30 Coweta businesses were considered as Legacy Business nominees, but 5 made the final cut: Murphey Florist, McKoon Funeral Home & Crematory, Lindsey’s, Inc. Realtors, Lee-King & Lee-Goodrum Pharmacies, and Crain Oil Company, Inc.

“C” is for Charitable

Each of those ultimately selected maintains strong ties to the community, their histories intricately woven into the fabric of both the Chamber and Coweta. It was Lindsey’s and Crain who ultimately shared the top honor, as their nearly identical reputations as multi-generational businesses born of community engagement and Chamber advocacy made for an impossible choice between the two.

The Legacy of Lindsey’s Lindsey Barron, the late founder of Lindsey’s Realtors, was an initial charter member of the Chamber. He and his two sons, Frank and Chip, have both served as presidents of

Crain Oil Company, Inc. maintains a reputation of generosity in Coweta. Whether it’s veterans’ groups, cancer research, law enforcement, or youth programs, it’s hard to name a charity Crain Oil hasn’t supported. At present, Joe Crain, Jr. is the primary manager of the company, but it was originally founded by his grandfather in 1954. It wasn’t until later that Joe Crain, Sr. came on board. “The general manager who was operating the business suddenly passed away, so my grandfather asked my mother and father if they would step in until he could hire a new manager,” reveals Joe Jr. “We always laugh saying, ‘He never found a new manager, so they’re still hoping!” To this day, three generations of Crains work together to provide half a dozen counties with oil and fuel.

If you’ve been in Coweta a while, there’s no doubt you’ve heard about “Murder in Coweta County.” Ironically, all five of our Legacy nominees maintain some connection to the infamous unfolding. Nearly every day, Sheriff Lamar Potts would walk over from the jail to Lee-King Pharmacy for a cup of coffee when the pharmacy was located on the Square. Over the years, Lindsey’s Realtors sold Sheriff Pott’s farm a couple of times and did business with Rayford and R.J. Smith who owned the property where the murder occurred. One of McKoon’s employees, Joe Strickland, is distantly related to John Wallace; at the time of the trial, his parents owned a grocery store across from the jail and would send foodstuffs to Wallace while he was incarcerated. “Doodle” Murphey, the founder of Murphey Florist, was friends with Sheriff Potts and used his distribution truck to haul his boat to go fishing. Meanwhile, the sheriff would leave his patrol car behind for employees to make flower deliveries. During demolition of the old jail on East Broad Street, Joe Crain, Sr. asked for John Wallace’s jail cell and paid $50 for it to be hauled to his property. Crain Oil also owns the grappling hook used to drag the river for human remains and the juror’s chairs used in the trial.

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B R oAr C E f IMPACT by Alex McRae Newnan Utilities has long been admired for its excellence in anticipating and exceeding its customers’ expectations. But because of its generous support of local schools, community service programs, and nonprofit organizations, Newnan Utilities is equally recognized for serving the needs of the community it calls home. That support will now be en-

LO C A L C A MP A IG N F O R S OC IA L G OOD hanced with the help of Newnan Utilities customers. In 2017, determined to be more purposeful in its giving, Newnan Utilities established the Newnan Utilities Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Caring Customers program, an initiative of the foundation, allows Newnan Utilities customers to contribute to local nonprofits by adding tax-deductible charitable donations to their monthly Newnan Utilities payments. Customers may choose to donate $1, $3, $10, or $50 on each bill. Both residential and commercial customers are allowed to participate. One hundred percent of the funds collected through the Caring Customers program are donated to

qualifying local nonprofits. Donations are determined through quarterly grant application reviews overseen by an advisory committee. “Newnan Utilities is proud we are able to expand our charitable giving,” said Newnan Utilities General Manager Dennis McEntire. “We look forward to partnering with our customers, employees, and the nonprofit community to continue to directly impact those who live and work in the communities we serve.” The Caring Customers program offered by Newnan Utilities is just one of the latest examples of how our Chamber plays a vital role in providing nonprofits with services and expertise that keep Coweta County stable and robust.

- Fall 2018

quality of life

CHAMBER IMPACT

The Chamber enjoys partnership with many local nonprofits, an effort formalized several years ago with the launch of the Nonprofit Roundtable. The Roundtable’s goal is to provide nonprofit leaders with access to decision makers, who are invited to host programs designed to educate and inform nonprofit leaders. The first program was presented by John Hall, who at the time was chair of the Chamber Board. Hall explained how nonprofit leaders could move “beyond the gatekeeper” to access decision makers. Other business leaders presenting programs have included Danny Beck of Beck Building Services, Jeff Phillips of Newnan Utilities, and State Senator Matt Brass. Chamber Vice President Cynthia Bennett and Membership Engagement Manager Jennifer Garcia presented a program about how to effectively use the Chamber’s Member Information Center.

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WHAT MAKES A

GOOD LEADER?

FIVE BUSINESS LEADERS GIVE PERSONAL INSIGHTS by Katie Anderson

CRISTINA BOWERMAN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR NEWNAN-COWETA HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Q: What are you doing to ensure that you continue to grow and develop as a leader in our community? A: I don’t like being stagnant. I am always learning new things. Whether it’s reading a new book, listening to a new podcast, or traveling to a different country or part of the United States, I am always trying to experience something new and different. I am a creative person, so I get a lot of energy from engaging my mind in different ways and I have found that it helps broaden my mind, leads to better problem solving and makes me a better leader as a result. Q: Name one book that you have read which has informed how you interact with the world around you. A: I am currently reading and rereading Strengths Based Leadership. I enjoy it, as it builds upon the StrengthsFinder assessment that I use in my personal and professional life. It’s all about understanding the differences people have and understanding that everyone brings something different to the table.

SAMANTHA BRAZIE SALES AND OPERATIONS MANAGER PROGRESSIVE HEATING AND AIR Q: How has your involvement with the Chamber benefited your business? A: I can’t say enough about the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce. When I moved back to this community, I was not a bartender anymore. I was in a professional environment where I really did not have any contacts. The Chamber was one of the first organizations I got involved in, and they were so welcoming and friendly. It was truly amazing. Many friendships and business partnerships have been built by way of the Chamber.

Q: What is your favorite quote? A: One of my favorite quotes from Amelia Earhart reads, “The most effective way to do it, is to do it.” I know that if I can at least get started on whatever it is I’m having a hard time with, I can always go back and overhaul, but sometimes the hardest part is the beginning. When I think of those words, I know I need to move.

- Fall 2018

HASCO CRAVER ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER CITY OF NEWNAN Q: How has your involvement with the Chamber inspired you to become involved in the community? A: I accepted a position with the City of Newnan in 2011 and shortly thereafter was invited to participate in the Leadership Coweta Program. The program, which brings emerging and experienced leaders together for an immersive educational program, exposed me to the various individuals, organizations and issues confronting our community. Since graduation, I have dedicated my professional and personal energy to the advancement of our community. I am certain that my participation in the Leadership Coweta Program ignited an interest in community involvement. Q: How has your involvement with the Chamber benefitted your business? A: My involvement with the Chamber has enabled me to have great opportunities to develop relationships with local and regional industry leaders married to the principles needed to collectively develop our community into the well-balanced, desirable location for private investment. ZACK HOLT DIRECTOR OF FACILITIES MANAGEMENT PIEDMONT NEWNAN HOSPITAL Q: How has your involvement with the Chamber inspired you to become involved in the community? A: It is exciting to meet business owners and develop new friendships. Being a part of the chamber has allowed me to be involved with community events, which allows me to engage businesses to help one another. It is inspiring to have connections within the community and see small businesses thrive. Q: Name a local leader from whom you draw inspiration and what is the greatest lesson that you have learned? A: The local leader from whom I draw inspiration is Dennis McEntire, (aka The Godfather). The greatest lesson learned from Dennis is to serve your community and have your community serve you. DANIEL NUNGESSER MANAGING PARTNER MODERN WOODMEN OF AMERICA Q: As an organization grows, there can be a tendency for the “institution” to dampen the “inspiration.” How do you keep this from happening? How do you keep things “fresh?” A: By listening to ideas from the newest members. They have fresh eyes without blinders. Sometimes we get caught doing the same thing over and over and we need a fresh view. When I listen to these new ideas and possibly implement them, our newest members feel empowered and inspired. Q: Name a local leader from whom you draw inspiration and what is the greatest lesson that you have learned? A: Nora Ann Wood. Her ability to always be positive and ask how you are doing inspires me to ask the same question to people around me. She is such a genuine individual. - Fall 2018

Great Schools the Heart of

Coweta County

“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. 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. • 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.

To learn more go to cowetaschools.net or call 770-254-5551 29

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MEET THE CANDIDATES COWETA COUNTY

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- Fall 2018

ike any good ‘ole fashioned political rally, HobNob guests will enjoy usual and customary traditions including an invocation, the singing of the National Anthem, an introduction to elected officials, and stump speeches from local candidates. No highbinders, no hinkeys. Just a hotsytotsy shindy with your best dames and pals!

THRIVE in Coweta

oast to the official launch of THRIVE, a quarterly business publication of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber. We’ll celebrate the incredible journey from concept to creation of this top-notch resource for those who are a part of our thriving business community, those who wish to learn about our thriving business community, or those who are just plain nosey.

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Impact in Action COWETA’S CENTRAL EDUCATIONAL CENTER by Angela McRae Twenty-one years ago, the citizens of Coweta County struck upon an idea that would render this metro Atlanta suburb a model of innovation. Crafting a concept that would serve as a thoughtful, responsive approach to educating Coweta’s youth, this idea would not only come to be known as a state-wide template for education, but one that could profoundly impact the relationship between young citizens and local business and industry. In the nearly two decades since its inception, the Central Educational Center (CEC) has grown to become one of the county’s most utilized innovations, lending itself to state, national and worldwide recognition. The CEC has been lauded by state leaders as “the secret sauce,” a compliment to a very dynamic recipe that will attract jobs and new industry. And, while the ingredients have blended together well to create a healthy mix of innovation, progress, and prosperity for Coweta, the output is also incredibly refreshing to both local students and businesses. As county schools resumed classes this fall, the CEC welcomed a new batch of eager young learners whose enthusiasm was matched only by their potential as productive members of the future workforce. There’s no telling where their experience may take them, but read on to discover just three of the countless Central Educational Center success stories.

Whether she’s heading to Atlanta in the pre-dawn hours to work at CNN, tackling video assignments in Ireland, or taking the stage to collect yet another Student Southeastern Emmy Award, Newnan’s Skylar Nicholson is finding that today’s “classroom” is much larger than she’d ever dreamed. And while she’s not exactly your average nineteen-year-old, Skylar represents a new type of student increasingly common in Coweta County, especially at Central Educational Center, Coweta’s much-lauded charter and career

academy. It’s widely known that the school was founded as a collaboration between the Newnan-Coweta Chamber, the Coweta County School System, and West Georgia Technical College in response to the changing needs of Coweta businesses. What’s not so widely known - but deserves to be - is how quickly CEC’s students are changing the story of local education. And “story” is what Skylar Nicholson is all about. Her personal website identifies her as a “Producer and Journalist,” but ask

- Fall 2018

Skylar Nicholson | Portraits by Linda E.

The Storyteller

Skylar her career goal and the answer is simple: “I want to be a storyteller.” Now a junior at the University of Georgia, where she’s double majoring in journalism and political science, Skylar briefly passes over her own story—a stint as a child performer at Dollywood, acting in local theatre, owning her own special-events company—to focus on all that she’s learned since discovering CEC. The skills Skylar learned at CEC have been instrumental to her success, Skylar said. As a high school junior and senior, she interned with NuLink in Newnan, working on the Tony Jones talk show Talkin’ with Tony. She did everything from filming the shoots to writing and editing. Instructor Michael Britt’s name pops up often in Skylar’s conversation. Britt now teaches at CEC following a thirty-year career in film and television, including work as an executive producer at Georgia Public Broadcasting, and Skylar credits him with teaching her about audio and video production, which she finds “a great way to connect to all demographics” and help tell their stories. It was through “Mr. Britt,” she said, that she got an internship with GPB when she was just sixteen, soon commuting to Atlanta for work. Skylar later became a production assistant and is now a social media producer for GPB. Because Skylar entered UGA with sixty hours of credit thanks to her education at CEC, the 2017 graduate of Newnan High School anticipates she’ll be a UGA grad (“Go, Dawgs!”) in 2019. Next, she plans to go to law school for further studies in communications law.

Skylar visits her previous home away from home at CEC

dent. Rather than pursuing a technical education leading to a particular career, his exposure to new ideas at CEC had the opposite effect and sent him along the path of higher education. Chad joked that he is “firmly entrenched in academia” now. “CEC provided me with a lot of tools that I wouldn’t normally have had,” he said. In fact, a recent project saw Chad and other researchers traveling to Antarctica to study the McMurdo Ice Shelf (pictured, below), along with Georgia Tech’s Dr. Britney Schmidt, an astrobiologist. Chad says Schmidt believes that if there is life

So, what would she be doing today if she hadn’t discovered CEC? Skylar’s eyes widen and her expression grows solemn as she contemplates how her story might have had another ending. “My life would be vastly different,” she said.

The Researcher

Like a lot of boys, the young Chad Ramey liked to build things with Legos. By the time he was a student at Northgate High School, he’d moved on to building a nuclear reactor in his parents’ garage in Newnan. Even so, he describes himself as somewhat “lost” as a high school junior, and his educational and career paths took a different turn when his parents heard about Central Educational Center. Now a Georgia Tech grad student, Chad acknowledges that his path has not exactly been that of the typical CEC stu-

- Fall 2018

Photo courtesy of Georgia Institute of Technology

somewhere else in our solar system, it’s likely on Europa, one of Jupiter’s largest moons. Since Europa has an ocean under an ice shelf, the research team in Antarctica was there to study conditions that are similar to those of Europa.

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Such research may now be part of his everyday life, but “it’s always exciting,” Chad says, especially the possibility of finding life somewhere else in our solar system in his lifetime. As a grad student, Chad has had opportunities to teach others through programs such as Governors Honors, and he strongly believes the ultimate role of a school should be to teach critical thinking skills, though he quickly adds that “the creative process” plays a role in those skills. Despite his bias toward academia, Chad said he’s well aware that jobs remain unfilled because of a lack of skilled workers, so he also sees why companies like Yamaha, Yokogawa, and Grenzebach have an interest in students being taught specific skills. Thanks to a school like CEC, both opportunities are available, Chad says. And about that nuclear reactor back home in Newnan? Yes, Chad says, his parents are kind enough to continue to let it take up space in their garage.

The Apprentice

Northgate High School senior Levi Coe didn’t have a backto-school supply list this fall. Instead, he picked up some notebooks, paper, and pens for his classes at West Georgia Technical College, but then Levi’s educational program looks a lot different than that of other students at his base school. Levi recently started his third year as a dual-enrolled student apprentice in the Georgia Consortium for Advanced Technical Training, or GA CATT. The very first student selected for the program, Levi will become one of its first graduates next May. Levi originally signed up for the automotive program at CEC but changed course—literally and figuratively—when he learned about GA CATT. The free education and opportunity for job success appealed to him. He’s excited about getting his German apprenticeship certification, which is recognized worldwide. In addition, Levi plans to obtain his associate’s degree in precision manufacturing. And he’s already been told he has a full-time job waiting at Grenzebach when he completes the program. One of the Chamber’s GA CATT participating member-manufacturers is E.G.O. North America. President David Keller (pictured, cover) represents one of the pioneers of the consortium and is one of two representatives for Advanced Manufacturing on the CEC Board of Directors.

- Fall 2018

THE CEO ON THE In September 2018, the Newnan-Coweta Chamber hosted the tri-annual State of the Community Luncheon during which Mark Whitlock, CEO of the Central Educational Center (CEC), moderated a panel of students, contributors, and advocates. During the 90-minute program, members and guests learned the abridged tale of the CEC’s beginnings in Coweta, but there’s more to the story, as Whitlock explains in a chat with Susan Kraut, the Chamber’s Director of Strategy and Communications. SK: Of all the communities in the state, why Coweta? MW: The Central Educational Center opened after nearly three years of planning. During those three years, a number of local leaders participated in a process carefully led by Coweta’s own Dr. Joe Harless. Dr. Harless, a colleague of famed behaviorist B.F. Skinner at Harvard, was himself known worldwide for his work to organize and operate training and education platforms using new, research-based approaches. Dr. Harless was asked to Chair a Steering Committee comprised of local leaders from education, business and government. His unique personal interest was not only to give back to the community, but also to apply years of success in his work with organizations ranging from Fortune 500 companies to US Government Agencies to branches of the US Military. Dr. Harless wanted to take what had been developed and help his own community apply the same principles to K-12 education. The ultimate hope was to help drive workforce change in an economy that demanded more technical skills, a higher level of soft skills, and greater independence from an even earlier age. Age 27 is the average age of a technical college student in the U.S., but employers begged the question, “Why not highly skilled at age 18 rather than at age 27?” With the mix of Harless leadership and the historical inclination locally to gather stakeholders at the table to solve important problems and re-create the future,

- Fall 2018

Coweta became the perfect community in which to invent a “Central Educational Center.” The original CEC became a statewide initiative, now replicated 45 times across Georgia as “college and career academies.” SK: Two decades is a long time. How has the original CEC model changed since the initial vision? MW: Since inception, expectation and change have been watchwords. The Coweta County School System has since doubled the size of the CEC facility, now with 20 areas of study. West Georgia Tech dual enrollment continues to grow in double digits each year. The CEC organization itself helps the Coweta County School System to engage students in technical college programs of study during the high school years. It was, in fact, the hope of West Georgia Tech that CEC would help drive younger ages of enrollment in Coweta County. This is what encouraged the College to become one of CEC’s founding partners. SK: Coweta is well-known as a healthcare hub and hosts many manufacturers. So, who ultimately benefits? MW: Over 250 employer sites are involved in work-based learning, with more than 500 team members (students) participating from across the county. Perhaps the largest single group of CEC interns work in the rapidly growing healthcare sector in Coweta. Healthcare and advanced manufacturing job growth have fueled an increase in average wages locally, along with a need for a more

highly skilled workforce. Further, eight local high-tech manufacturers, plus West Georgia Tech, the Coweta County School System, the Coweta County Development Authority, the German American Chamber, the Newnan-Coweta Chamber, Georgia Tech and a host of other partners have begun the first German Certified apprenticeship program that begins at age 15…ever in the U.S. That is important because the program in Germany yields higher wages and higher rates of young adult employment. SK: It seems that nearly every facet of Coweta “magic” is steeped in history. Is there a story behind the location of the CEC? MW: The CEC facility itself yields a clue as to the deep level of community engagement and change proposed. Whether it served as Coweta’s African-American high school during the days of segregation, a part of Newnan High School, or as Central Middle School, the “Central” facility itself has been integral to the fabric of the community. Central High School sent Coweta’s first two enrollees to MIT and, as such, the expectations of CEC were high because of such history and legacy. The 26 members of the CEC Steering Committee, and the many others locally who participated in planning, believed strongly that the facility would have its next important incarnation as a joint venture that would connect local business, the Coweta County School System and West Georgia Technical College. SK: How well-received has the CEC been among Coweta’s student base in its nineteen-year history? MW: Last year, participation in CEC increased to 51% of all Coweta County School System high school graduates. That means that more than 1 in 2 of East Coweta High School, Newnan High School and Northgate High School graduates (from last year) had participated in CEC at some point during grades 8-12.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK Dr. Harless’s The Eden Conspiracy was lauded by Georgia’s state legislature and by groups like the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI). The book foretold the work of this community to create a school that could incorporate many of the successful innovations he led in multiple organizations worldwide. The Eden Conspiracy was recently updated by the Cambridge Center for Behavioral Studies, with a feature on the implementation and work of CEC. The Cambridge Center represents professionals who were taught by Skinner, Harless and other industry giants.

WHAT IS ADDIE? Dr. Harless employed the ADDIE systems design process in his approach to CEC and it’s this process that has served as a baseline for duplicative efforts. ADDIE is a five-step design model that can be applied in many different situations, not just in education, to solve complex problems. It serves as a framework for the work, regardless of the industry. While many business leaders address work flow tactically, there is a great benefit to applying a strategic approach to an ongoing assessment of output and impact.

ANALYZE

CEC continues to grow and change because that is what our community designed…a way to help our young people gain a leg up in a rapidly changing economy. SK: What challenges do you face as you look toward the future of the Central Educational Center, if any? MW: We need to continue to Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement and Evaluate (ADDIE) programs of study that help to satisfy the “talent” needs of Coweta business and industry while providing high-skill career opportunities for Coweta citizens, particularly young adults. This is an ongoing and fluid process.

EVALUATE

IMPLEMENT

DESIGN

DEVELOP

- Fall 2018

WELCOME to the CFEMC family! “Coweta-Fayette EMC was extremely responsive in providing the service we needed on our recent 1.2 million square foot development, Southwest 85 Logistics Center at Coweta Industrial Park. We couldn’t be more pleased with the project and the partnership with Coweta-Fayette EMC.” LISA M. WARD Senior Vice President and Managing Director CORE5 Industrial Partners

“One of the guiding principles of electric cooperatives is concern for the community. At Coweta-Fayette EMC, one of the ways we impact our community is through our support of economic development. Helping to bring new companies to our area and helping our existing companies grow means more jobs for our region and a better quality of life for everyone.” GREG WRIGHT Senior Director of Community & Economic Development Coweta-Fayette EMC

“The bottom line, we made our decision to go to EMC. They do what they say and say what they do. They’re kind of old school. I don’t feel like it’s a big conglomerate. Generally speaking, what won the business for EMC was the people we came into contact with. Even though Blickle’s the largest manufacturer in the world for what we do, in the US we’re not. This is essentially a start-up. And so, we have that same attitude, so it really dovetailed very nicely between EMC and Blickle because we’re both high-growth companies that want to make a difference. And we know to do that, we’ve got to really delight the customers.” SCOTT CHAHALIS President Blickle USA

We are all working towards the same goal. When we work together, using energy wisely and growing our communities go hand-in-hand. That’s the power behind your membership. www.utility.org - Fall 2018

PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY

Congratulations

MANAGEMENT

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

www.hopega.com

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

770-583-8864

to the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce on their ďŹ rst edition of Thrive Coweta!

- Fall 2018

e v i r Th L i v e , W o r k , P l a y

The Chamber is proud to play an instrumental role in shaping the quality of life in Coweta, whether by way of collaborating to ensure a top-notch school system, endeavoring to improve local job prospects for our graduates, or working to ensure that our employers have a solid pool of candidates from which to hire. We know that Coweta is at the forefront of our region as a choice location to live, work, and play. But, we’re not content to just live.

76.9% On Education: 76.9 percent of Coweta residents rate their perception of public education as “excellent or “good.”

55.2% On Job Opportunities in Coweta: 55.2 percent of respondents consider job opportunities in Coweta to be “excellent” or “good.”

46.8% On Transportation: 46.8 percent of Cowetans believe that the best long-term solution to traffic problems is to expand public transportation options.

We want to THRIVE...and we believe that we’re doing just that. It’s not just our voice that matters, though. Learn what residents have to say about the state of Coweta. Each fall, the Atlanta Regional Commission publishes the results of a detailed survey on how residents feel about their community on a variety of topics. We chose to focus on those that speak to our six Pillars of Prosperity in honing in on what renders a vibrant, prosperous, and thriving Coweta.

93.6% On Public Health: 93.6 percent believe Coweta’s public health amenities to be adequate and/or satisfactory.

53.8% Paying for Goods and Services: 53.8 percent of respondents claim that, in an emergency, they have the means to rely solely on cash, check, or debit card.

74.4% On Relocating: 74.4 percent of Cowetans said they prefer their community, compared with only 7.1% who said that they would move to a different neighborhood.

This research was conducted by the A.L. Burrus Institute of Public Service and Research at Kennesaw State University. The institute surveyed more than 5,000 residents in metro-Atlanta’s core 13-county area, 400 each in the larger counties, including Coweta.

- Fall 2018

The Elephant in the Room House Bill 930 was recently signed by Gov. Nathan Deal putting Coweta in one of 10 redefined transit districts in the metro Atlanta area. This plan could provide for various bus lines, transporting people into and out of Coweta. There has also been talk of a rail system, inciting very mixed feelings among residents. The proposed Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST) has been unanimously confirmed by the county’s Joint Transportation Coordinating Committee. If it passes, needed funds would be made available for the widening of Lower Fayetteville Road in Newnan, as well as the implementation of the LINC system. What’s to come of transportation in Coweta? Stay tuned...

Healthcare Reimagined HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Newnan Undergoes Rebranding

ADDITIONAL

$500 * OFF NEW USED

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VEH IC L E Coupon good through December 31, 2018 Bring original or copy of coupon to Paul Nestlehutt, GM or Matt Burdette, Sales Manager

In the fall of 2018, HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Newnan, a 50-bed inpatient rehabilitation hospital, will unveil its new name and brand as part of its company’s name change and rebranding initiative. The inpatient rehabilitation hospital will be known as Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Newnan and will continue to provide the same high-quality, post-acute care for patients overcoming a variety of debilitating illnesses and injuries. At HealthSouth Newnan, patients recovering from major illnesses or injuries such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, amputation or hip fracture receive at least three hours of intensive therapy for five days each week. Therapy is customized for the patient’s diagnosis and may include physical, occupational or speech therapy. “Our new Encompass Health brand reflects more than the change of our name. It reinforces our commitment to working together to continuously improve the care we provide our patients,” said Shawn Bright, area CEO of HealthSouth Newnan. “With a focus on clinical collaboration and strengthening relationships, we will continue to play an important role in making a difference in the lives of our patients.” Birmingham, Alabama-based HealthSouth Corporation launched its new name and brand on January 1, 2018 and will be transitioning its 129 inpatient rehabilitation hospitals and 272 home health and hospice locations serving 36 states and Puerto Rico through 2019. All of the company’s post-acute care service locations in Georgia will migrate to the Encompass Health name and branding on January 1, 2019.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

*One coupon per purchase. *Must be presented at time of purchase. *Cannot be used in conjunction with Ford A, Z, X, or D plans per Ford regulations.

One of six pillars that holds Coweta County’s economic prosperity high is healthcare. Results from a recent study concluded that 10 of the 20 fastest-growing occupations are in the healthcare field. In the last decade alone, healthcare employment has increased by 23 percent.

238 Bullsboro Drive Newnan, GA

One of the newest hospitals to call Coweta home, HealthSouth has contributed to our economic prosperity in more ways than one by creating approximately 400 jobs during the construction phase, currently employing more than 130 employees, and providing an annual average salary of $55,000+ per full-time employee.

770-502-3673 44

- Fall 2018

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. - Fall 2018

The Joint Commission DiseaseSpecific Care Certification in Stroke Rehabilitation

2101 E. Newnan Crossing Boulevard Newnan, GA 30265 Admissions 678.552.6202 Fax 855.591.1896 encompasshealth.com/newnanrehab 45

ÂŠ2018:Encompass Health Corporation:1371893

Helping Hands Chiropractic

Standard Office Systems

Café Dionne

Ribbon Cuttings Coweta Business is thriving and we’re thrilled to share in membership milestones! Join us as we walk down memory lane in revisiting just a few of this year’s ribbon cuttings. Congrats to all!

ReJoyce Boutique

Coweta Hearing Clinic

Trace Staffing 46

Hungry Howie’s

Serenity Dog Retreat

Monarch House

The Lighting Studio - Fall 2018

UNIQUE LAKEFRONT COMPOUND 726 MARIN PARKWAY, DADEVILLE, AL 36853

$2,229,500 Premier Lake Views

Approx. 7,623 Sq. Ft.

4 Living Quarters

Approx. 2 Acres

300+/- ft. Waterfront

4 Fireplaces

8 Bedrooms

Private Boat Dock

6 Full, 2 Half Baths

MLS# 8307943

PRISTINE MOVE-IN-READY HOME 155 INLAND CIRCLE, NEWNAN, GA 30263

$369,900 Lake Redwine

Master Suite on Main

2,922 Sq. Ft.

Unfinished Basement

4 Bedrooms

New Deck

2 Full, 1 Half Bath

MLS# 8383900

LAUREN CARLSON, REALTOR® Values honesty and open communication above all else, but thrives most on witnessing the happiness of others and meeting new people! Call, text or email her today for any of your real estate needs! Has called Newnan home since 2001 Graduated from Woodward Academy high school Bachelor’s in Communication from the University of Alabama MBA from the University of West Georgia Employed at Southwire Company in Carrollton, GA for 9 years Served on the Board of the Newnan-Coweta Historical Society LCARLSON@JYBREALTY.COM

Member of the Newnan-Coweta Board of Realtors® Licensed Realtor® in Georgia & Alabama Serves as Volunteer Chairman of the Board for the Library at Wesley Woods Has a chocolate lab named Bailey

@Lauren Carlson, Realtor

| CELL: 770.301.9279

Josey Young & Brady Realty, LLC. | 75 Jackson St., Suite 200, Newnan, GA, 30263 | Office: 770.683.1800 | Fax: 770.683.1801 | jybrealty.com Copyright® 2018 Josey Young and Brady Realty, LLC. If you have a brokerage relationship with another agency, this is not intended as a solicitation. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Equal housing opportunity provider.

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A PROUD SUPPORTER OF THE NEWNAN-COWETA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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THRIVE | Issue 1 | Fall 2018