in this issue

Chairman’s Message 2

Business Profile 3

Calendar 4

It’s Happening in Henry 5

Tourism Feature 6

Summer Vacation Planner 7

Youth Leadership Henry 10

2012 Golf Classic 10

Business Boosters Luncheon 11

Business After Hours 12

“Drugs Don’t Work” 13

Ribbon Cuttings 14

Edward Jones 15

The Henry County Chamber of Commerce serves as the voice for

the business community, provides quality services and programs that

meet the needs of its members, improves the economic environment

of the community and creates a legacy of leadership for the future.

A H E n R Y C o u n T Y C H A M B E R o F C o M M E R C E P u B L I C A T I o n Y o u R B u S I n E S S I S o u R B u S I n E S S

H A M P T o n | L o C u S T G R o V E | M C D o n o u G H | S T o C k B R I D G E MAY 2012

Welcome New Members

• MetroAtlantadrivershavethelongestcommuteinthecountry– longer than Los Angeles,Washington, Chicagoand Houston!• Other American cities – Charlotte, Denver, Salt LakeCity, Seattle,Dallas,HoustonandPhoenix tonamea few–havealreadyinvestedintransportation,takingproactivesteps that resulted in enhanced economic competitiveness andqualityoflifeforbusinessesandresidentsalike.

• By2040anestimated8millionpeoplewilllivein/nearAtlanta–anincreaseof3million,whichissuretoimpacttraffic even more. Isn’tittimeforMetroAtlantatobeginworkingonatrans-portation solution? As part of Metro Atlanta, it’s impor-tant that Henry County residents study and consider their stance on this vital issue – then cast an informed vote on theMetroAtlantaT-SPLOSTReferendumonJuly31.

The Chamber welcomed new members joining since October 2011 at a New Member Reception on April 10 hosted by Eagle’s Landing Country Club. At-tendees enjoyed great food in a beautiful setting while learning how to net-work and how participation in the Chamber can benefit their business, as well as other benefits of Chamber membership. Thanks to Great American Cookie

Company–Tanger; WVFJ.FM “The Joy” Radio Station; Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta; Nail Heating & Air Conditioning and Gezzo’s Grille, some went home with great door prizes. New member, Brian Lucas, summed up his experience with “I’ve learned the value of networking; that networking means everything, and the Chamber is a great place to start!”

For more information, visit www.transformmetroatlanta.com

Metro Atlanta Regional T-SPLOST Referendum is July 31

Danny Brown

Hey Molly, Where Are You From?

Chairman’s Message2 HenryCounty.Com

As my wife Patti and I toured several colleges with our high-school senior daughter Molly this year, trying to determine where she’ll spend the next four (or more) years of her life, I was reminded of something that was puzzling to me when I was in school. Where will Molly say she’s from when asked by her college friends?

Now I grew up in Arabi, a stop-in-the-road hamlet near Cordele in South Georgia, un-til we moved to Athens when I was in junior high school. And Athens became home for me…so it made it easy for me to say I was a local boy at the University of Georgia. Colleagues seemed to relate to that better than the thought of being a hayseed from a village they’d never been to or even heard of.

Likewise, my acquaintances would sometimes mask their own roots by substituting the nearest “cool” city as their home nest rather than their true stomp-ing ground. Folks really from

Bonaire became Warner Robins natives; Effingham County boys were Savannah guys; those Mar-tinez girls hailed from Augusta; and Doraville morphed into At-lanta. Why was that? Could it be that they hadn’t yet staked their claim to a worthy reputation as a hometown? Or did being from a bigger place mean you had al-ready seen the world?

I wonder if Henry County and its primary towns of Mc-Donough, Stockbridge, Lo-cust Grove and Hampton have made their marks enough to be stand-alone, “I’m from” lo-cations rather than using At-lanta, south Atlanta or just-outside-Atlanta as our kids’ beginnings. As far removed as I am from the genera-tion and mindset, I know we can and do stand on our own today as a place we should be proud of being from.

Look at a few things we have going for us.

A rich history that we can be proud of, and with it, beauti-

ful old buildings and farms that belong on the cover of “South-ern Living” and “National Geo-graphic” magazines.

The state’s eighth largest popu-lation center, ahead of yesterday’s metro-leaders like Richmond, Muscogee and Bibb Counties.

Outstanding schools, out-standing cultural opportunities, cutting-edge health care facili-ties, major transportation corri-dors and continuously-improv-ing infrastructure that would be the envy of many counties throughout the state.

A business-friendly environ-ment including manufacturing and service industries that boasts a healthy, educated and well-paid workforce, modern facilities and an open-arms invitation to com-panies looking to relocate.

Best of all…a friendly, gentle community with true and last-ing friendships waiting behind every handshake.

That’s my Henry County…and that’s where I’m from! Mol-ly, how about you?

Danny Brown and his wife, Patti, are owners of SERVPRO® of Henry, Spalding and Clayton Counties, as well as SERVPRO® of Decatur, all headquartered in McDonough. SERVPRO is the nation’s leader in fire & water damage cleanup and restoration.

Last minute reminder: If you haven’t purchasedyourtickets forthe3rdAnnualGreat $10,000 Giveaway, do it now. Theevent is Thursday, May 3rd at the MerleManders Conference Center from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tickets are $125 and includedrinksanddinnerfortwoandachancetowin the $10,000. For more information,callLauraLukerat770-957-5786,orvisitthe Chamber office.

HenryCounty.Com 3

About the Company This small business, which employs five full-time and one part-time associate, achieved 2011 revenues of $411,389. John Newman’s back-ground in the green industry began in 1986 with Post Properties, where he worked as a seasonal employee during school breaks while attend-ing college. He graduated from the University of Georgia in 1990 with a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture. He was the recipient of the 1988 Post Properties’ Doug Bates Memorial Scholarship for outstanding vocational and aca-demic performances including Dean’s List. Classic Landscapes offers unique design/build services as well as seasonal and routine lawncare maintenance. John enjoys creat-ing master landscape plans and preparing site plans that provide the most show, while utilizing low power and water consumption. Plans often incorporate water features and/or hardscape features such as retaining walls, patios, walks, etc. John and his team also pro-vide full-service turf and plant care, including horticulturally-correct hand pruning and sea-sonal maintenance services such as topdress-ing, aerating, deer repelling, etc. Specialty care services such as irrigation, lighting and water-fall maintenance are also provided. The team at Classic Landscapes possesses over sixty years of collective industry experi-ence. Team leaders are also college graduates and all associates are extensively screened. Classic Landscapes, Inc. is the winner of mul-tiple awards: Metro Atlanta Landscape & Turf Association Merit Award (2007, 2008, 2009); Georgia Green Industry Association Grand Award (2008); Professional Landcare Network

Award of Distinction (2011) and Urban Agri-culture Council Grand Award (2011). Their work has been featured in the Atlanta Journal and Constitution and USA Today, as well as Home and Garden Television (HGTV)’s popu-lar Groundbreakers show on October 5, 2008.

Community Support John takes giving back seriously. He gives of his time to: the Henry County Chamber of Com-merce, where he sits on the Board of Directors; Community Gardens of Henry County Board of Directors; Jonesboro First Baptist Church where he serves as a Deacon; Ola and Union Grove High Schools where he performs mock interviews for students; Hands on Henry; and Union Grove High School CCT classes and Southern Crescent Technical College’s horticulture classes where he does guest lectures. He also serves on the South-ern Crescent Technical College’s Environmental Horticulture Program Advisory Board.

Chamber Involvement Classic Landscapes, Inc. has been a member of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce for four years. Says John, “Our involvement in the Chamber has allowed us to meet key business leaders in the community and to forge valu-able relationships with them, while partnering in further developing our county as a great place to do business. We advise any business looking to broaden their business education and exposure within the community to be-come involved in the Chamber.” John, his wife, Jill, and their two children re-side in Hampton, where the business is located. For more information about Classic Land-scapes, visit www.ClassicLandscapesGa.com.

Business ProfileClassic Landscapes, Inc. was established in 2005

in Henry County, and is owned by John Newman.

John Newman, Owner

Classic Landscapes, Inc.

National Small Business Week is May 20-26 – which provides an opportunity to thank the small businesses that make up over 80% of Chamber membership. Those small business leaders take active roles and are leaders who work on behalf of the Chamber and the community. The HCCC considers small businesses to be those with less than 50 employees. Small businesses leaders tend to be heavily involved in the growth and quality of life in a community. We take our hats off to our small businesses and say THANK YOU for your commitment and involvement!

Celebrating Small Businesses

MAY 2012

7 8 9 6 12

14 15 16 17 13 19

21 22 23 24 20 26

28 30 3127

18

25

10

29

SundAY MondAY TueSdAY WedneSdAY ThurSdAY FridAY SATurdAY

1 2 3 4 5

11

ChAMber STAFFkay Pippin, PresidentLaura Luker, Director of TourismDiane Ide, Director of CommunicationsGary Sparrow, Membership DirectorPhyllis Reeves, Information Specialist

2012 boArd oF direCTorS

exeCuTive CoMMiTTeeDanny Brown, Chairman, SERVPRo® of Henry, Spalding & Clayton Counties & DecaturEddie Ausband, Chair-Elect, The Ausband Agency, Inc.Leonard Moreland, Secretary/Treasurer, Heritage BankTaylor Rice, Immediate Past Chair

Brad Thomas, Vice Chair for Economic & Cultural Development, Snapping Shoals EMCCharlie Scott, Vice Chair for Chamber Development, Piedmont Henry HospitalJune Wood, Vice Chair for Government & Education, Georgia PowerJulie Hoover-Ernst, CVB Chair, Henry County Board of Commissionerskay Pippin, Henry County Chamber of Commerce President

CLASS oF 2012Herschel Arant, Central Georgia EMCDanny Brown, SERVPRo of Henry & Spalding CountiesSteve Moore, Moore Bass Consulting, Inc. John newman, Classic Landscapes, Inc. Laura Turner, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta June Wood, Georgia Power

CLASS oF 2013Eddie Ausband, The Ausband AgencyGreg Cannon, Cannon-Cleveland Funeral DirectorsSteve nail, nail Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Shane Persaud, Building Design Partnership, LLCRhonda SegersDenise Sowell, Capitol Street Financial Services

CLASS oF 2014James Chafin, Judge, Henry County State CourtLisa kinchen, owner/Editor, H MagazineLeonard Moreland, President & CEo, Heritage BankDavid Pittman, CFo, Bennett International GroupWilliam Strickland, President, Bellamy-Strickland ChevroletBrad Thomas, President/CEo, Snapping Shoals EMC

ex oFFiCio MeMberSChairman Elizabeth “B.J.” Mathis, HC Board of CommissionersMayor R.W. Coley, City of HamptonMayor Robert Price, City of Locust GroveMayor Billy Copeland, City of McDonoughMayor Lee Stuart, City of StockbridgeEthan Hildreth, Superintendent, Henry County SchoolsCharlie Scott, CEo, Piedmont Henry HospitalVickie Loper, Chairman, Henry County Development AuthorityRoderick Burch, Henry County Water and Sewerage AuthorityHolly Campbell, Leadership HenryJake Carter, Chair AppointeePeto Fallas, Chair AppointeeGerald Hudgins, Chair Appointee

4 HenryCounty.Com

8 AM CVB BOD

10 AM Membership Comm

11:30 AM Exec Comm3:30 PM Media Relations

Memorial DayChamber closed

8:30 AM Golf Comm8:30 AM Ed. Foundation

E2 Implementation Teams mtg

5:30 PM Business After Hours, Atlanta Motor

Speedway

8 AM Leadership HenryWrap-up day, HR, Bd Rm

Noon – Existing Industries

7:30 AM HCCC BOD Mtg.

Noon – Ambassadors Luncheon

$10K Giveaway 5:30 PM-8:30 PMMerle Manders CC

11 AM Government Affairs Comm, HR

10 AM Small Business Council

11 AM Business Boosters Luncheon

11 AM Health Ins. Seminar, HR

8 AM Youth Leadership Henry

HenryCounty.Com 5

Comfortably South of AtlantaiT’S hAppening in henrY

You pick Strawberries April – May • Southern Belle Farm

Enjoy a fun, family outing filling your bucket with beautiful strawberries fresh from the vine. Visit www.southernbellefarm.com for information about berry availability, directions and hours.

Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine May 4, 11 & 18

Atlanta Motor Speedway Competing nearly every Friday night from April through August, local competitors power up for weekly drag racing among several divisions. Everything from full-blown dragsters to grandma’s grocery-getter will compete in side-by-side, heads-up drag racing along the speedway’s pit road eighth-mile drag strip. The Show-N-Shine Car Show offers fans a chance to show off their rides in the comforts of the NASCAR garage. Participating Show-N-Shine vehicles will be displayed on the frontstretch prior to the start of opening ceremonies, allowing fans an opportunity to walk on the track and look at the show cars up close. Admission is only $8 and children five and under are free. Visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com for more information or call (770) 946-4211.

Sutherland’s 9th Annual Food ShowMay 2 – 9:00 a.m.

State Farmers Market -Exhibition HallVisit www.suthfoodservice.com or call 404-366-8550 for more information.

16th Annual Miles for Meals WalkMay 5 – 9 a.m.heritage park

Walking is healthful, fun and when you participate in the Miles for Meals Walk, you’ll be helping to raise funds tht sustain programs and services for Henry County senior adults. For complete details, call 770-288-7010.

Annual Garden Party • May 5Holiday Inn & Suites - Stockbridge

Wear your mask and join the hospital’s Foundation for an unforgettable evening of mystique. Returning to this year’s event are the thrilling silk dancers and other captivating performers. A menu featuring multi-cultural cuisines and delicacies promises to delight partygoers. The 2012 Garden Party will host two dinners. Guests will have their choice of a sit-down dinner beginning at 6:30 p.m. or an international food station meal at 7:30 p.m. Music by Rupert’s Orchestra will have guests dancing the night away. Limited hotel rooms are available at the Holiday Inn & Suites for Garden Party guests by calling 678-782-4000. Please mention you are a guest of the Garden Party when booking your room. Family Medical Clinic is this year’s presenting sponsor of the Garden Party. Other sponsorship opportunities are still available and tickets may be purchased at a cost of $125 each. Contact Adam Stanfield at 678-604-5018 or adam.stanfield@piedmonthenry.org for more information.

Single Points Local – Parents Race MAY 5 – Practice & Registration:

6:00 – 7:00 p.m.Race – 8:00 p.m. • Sandy Ridge BMX

Visit www.sandyridgebmx.org or 770-616-0075 for more information.

Sherman’s Trail Yard SaleMay 5-6 – 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Hampton Train DepotThis is a 150 mile event that follows Sherman’s trek through GA, following the railroads.  It began in 2011. The trail will connect Lovejoy Market through Hampton and on to Locust Grove.  Check out the website for more towns included:www.shermanstrailyardsale.com.  Rental space at Hampton Depot is available -- 10 x 10 spot for $10.  Sponsored by the HBMA.

SCCA Atlanta Regional Solo May 5-6 • Atlanta Motor Speedway

Since 1944, SCCA has championed one mission: To bring motorsports to the masses of American men and women who are passionate about automobiles, speed and competition. Racing will take place in the Champions and Winners parking area. For more information, visit www.soloatlanta.com

Stuntworld USA Presents Stuntfest 2K12 May 6 • Atlanta Motor Speedway

Stuntfest 2K12 will include a car show, stereo competition, bikini contest, drag racing, hip-hop talent show, live entertainment, stage shows, classic to exotic and the mild to wild. For more information, contact Stuntworld USA at (404) 307-1570 or visit http://shop.stuntworldusa.net

Kids Outdoor Adventure FestivalMay 12 – Noon-3 p.m. • Panola Mtn. State Park

Kids 15 and younger are invited to hook a catfish or bluegill while learning about aquatic habitats, fish identification and fishing skills. An archery range, fly-fishing, tree climbing, orienteering and more demonstrations will be available. Bring your own bait and rods. Meet at Alexander Lake. There will also be a drawing for a bow and arrow set. $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

2012 Atlanta Motor SpeedwayOpen House • May 12 – Noon-4 p.m.

Drive your car on the track, enjoy gift shop discounts, a classic car show, Legends racing, tours and more. For info call 770-946-4211.

Race to the Finish Line 5K/10K/1 Mile Fun Run/Bike Ride

May 12 • Atlanta Motor SpeedwayThe Inaugural Race to the Finish Line at Atlanta Motor Speedway will benefit the Atlanta chapter of Speedway Children’s Charities. The event will feature a 5K, 10K, 1 mile fun run and a bike ride, with the race concluding on the famed 1.54-mile surface of the Atlanta Motor Speedway. The event will begin at 7:30 AM. 5K and 10K times will be accepted as valid times for positioning in the 2013 Peachtree Road Race. For more information, contact Ginger Moats at (770) 946-3980. To register, visit http://www.active.com/running/hampton-ga/speedway-childrens-charities-5k-10k-1-mile-fun-run-bike-ride-2012

Legends RacingMay 12 • Atlanta Motor Speedway

NASCAR’s stars of tomorrow battle for short-track supremacy on Atlanta Motor Speedway’s “Thunder Ring,” the facility’s frontstretch quarter-mile oval track. Each event features multiple classes of Legends, Bandolero and Buzz Car racing. Fans can purchase infield passes at the Security Command building

near the speedway’s main entrance. Infield access costs just $12 for adults, $5 for children ages six through 11 and admission is free for children ages five and younger. Cost to race is just $25. Minors and their guardians are required to complete a minor waiver before children ages 17 and younger can enter the infield; the waiver and instructions can be found at www.atlantamotorspeedway.com. For more information, visit www.legendsofga.com or www.atlantamotorspeedway.com.

Basic Fly Fishing ClinicMay 12 – 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Panola Mountain State ParkThe clinic covers casting, safety issues and other tricks of the trade. If time permits participants may stay to catch the Fish of Fish. Instructors suggest wearing long pants/shorts and hiking shoes, and bringing snacks, water and sunscreen. Georgia fishing license required. Register in advance.  $15 or $12 with own gear. $5 parking. 770-389-7801. Panola Mountain State Park

Groovin’ in the GroveMay 12 – 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Downtown Locust GroveCome enjoy an evening of dining, dancing, and entertainment. Tables of eight are available. For more information or to purchase a table, call 770-692-2320.

KMS Drift May 13 • Atlanta Motor Speedway

Koss Motorsports’ Drifting Championship Series makes a stop at Atlanta Motor Speedway. The event will feature Dyno Horsepower Wars, a Kutie Contest, food, vendors, a wing-eating contest, live music and DJ, car show and much more. Making a guest appearance will be 2011 Formula Drift Champion and Triple Crown winner Daijiro Yoshihara. For more information, visit www.kossmotorsports.com

Single Point Local / Pro AM May 18 - Practice & Registration- 6:00 –

7:00 p.m. – Race – 8:00 p.m.Sandy Ridge BMX

All riders time trial for gate choice. Visit www.sandyridgebmx.org or 770-616-0075 for more information.

35th Annual Geranium FestivalMay 19 - 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Downtown McDonoughThe Geranium Festival at its core is an Arts & Crafts Festival! There will be over 350 exhibitors from all across the Southeastern United States sharing over 424 booth spaces of some of the most creative things you will find anywhere! Admission to the festival is free!

Noah’s Ark Arts & Crafts FairMay 19 – 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Noah’s ArkCrafters, artists, gardeners, and home canners - register now to have a booth at the Noah’s Ark Summer Arts & Craft Fair! The fairs will be held the third Saturday April - September. The fairs are open to the public 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Sounds of Summer – featuring “Hero the Band”

May 19 – 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 pm.Stockbridge City Hall Lawn

Enjoy music on the City Hall Lawn throughout the summer! Admission is free and picnics are encouraged!

Tree Top Excursions: Introduction ClimbMay 19 – 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Panola Mountain State Park Join us “on rope” for an adventure exploring the canopy

above. Participants will use rope and harness for this moderately strenuous activity. One group will start at 1PM; another group will start at 3PM. Please arrive 15 minutes before each program. Register in advance.  $15 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

Basic ArcheryMay 26 - 3:00 p.m. - 5 p.m.Panola Mountain State Park

Take aim and hit the bull’s eye! Join a certified instructor to learn archery basics. Meet at the Archery Range. All equipment provided. If you have your own equipment, cost includes an all-day archery range pass. Ages 9 and up.  $10. $5 parking. 770-389-7801

Richard Petty Driving ExperienceMay 26-27 • Atlanta Motor Speedway

For more information visit www.drivepetty.com or call (800) BE-PETTY.

6th Annual Peach Stand Road RaceMay 27 – 8:00 a.m.

Gardner Farms Peach StandThe 6th Annual Peach Stand Road Race will begin and end at the Gardner Farms Peach Stand on Hwy 42 in Locust Grove. For more information, or to receive an application, please call (770) 692-2320.

Stockbridge Memorial MarchMay 28 – 8:00 a.m.

Merle Manders Conference CenterThis event will be a ceremonial walk from Clark Park to Memorial Park and back and will celebrate all of our Veterans! Pre-registration is free and participant receives one free t-shirt on the day of the march.

Memorial Day CeremonyMay 28 – 9:00 a.m.

Veterans Wall of Honor at Heritage Park

dottie.wise@metrobrokers.commetrobrokers.com/dottie.wise

DottieWISE

Associate Broker

404.843.2500 Office678-443-8407 Direct404.683.0912 Mobile

METRO BROKERS1401 Highway 20 West

McDonough, GA 30253

Each Firm is independently Owned and Operated

ChAMber MeMberShipThank You to our RENEWING Members

Blasingame Pest Management, Inc.BillyBlasingame

P.O.Box2857,McDonough30253(770)914-1036

Children’s Healthcare of AtlantaLaura Turner

300LesterMillRoad#200F,LocustGrove30248(404)201-0822

JDJ Investment Group, Inc.JamesJackson

155WestridgeParkway,Suite219,McDonough30253(678)565-4207

Los Portales Mexican Sports Bar & GrillRonCastillo

1745RockQuarryRoad,Stockbridge30281(770)507-4020

MediCrest Home CareTova Nieves

15JonesboroStreet,McDonough30253(404)946-3313

Roger H. Nix

Security FinanceAngelStarks

3857Highway138SEStockbridge30281(770)389-7121

Take Shape for LifeWendyMenard(404)310-5089

TxtCom, LLCGary Hermsmeier

411RehobothChurchRoadGriffin30224

(678)689-3085Work Ready Community Team

KevinSmith1131Highway155South

McDonough30253(678)773-7444

AllsouthEnvironmentalServices,Inc.AmericoldLogisticsServices

Belk,Inc.BetterHomesandGardensRealEstate-DottieWise

Buzzzz’NMagazinesCandaceCarpetOneFloor&Home

Cannon-ClevelandFuneralDirectorsCommunityBibleFellowshipChurch

CourtyardByMarriottCrystalLakeGolf&CountryClub

EdwardJonesInvestments-LinWattsElectricalControlServices,Inc.

Fulton&KozakCertifiedPublicAccountantsGeorgiaFlooringOutletGezzo’sSurf&Grille

GoodyearAviationProductsHenryCountyLibrarySystem

HenryCountyWater&SewerageAuthorityTheHenryPlayers

HenryRadiationOncologyCenterHolidayInnHotel&Suites

LifeSouthCommunityBloodCentersMarchofDimes

McDonoughPrimaryCareMcLaurinGraphics,Inc.

Mid-GeorgiaFinancialGroupPremierElevatorCompany,Inc.

PreventChildAbuseHenryCountyRegionsBank

ServiceMasterofMcDonoughSouthernCrescentHabitatforHumanity

St.VincentdePaulofSt.JamestheApostleSuper8–LocustGroveTytamServices,Inc.

University of GeorgiaUPSStore(The)

VillasatSouthPointWORKTEC

ChAMber MeMberShipWelcome to our NEW Members

Leadership Henry Accepting Applications for 2012-2013 ClassLeadership Henry is now accepting applications for the Class of 2013.  Current and emerging leaders who work

or reside in the Henry County area are encouraged to apply.   For more information about the program, call

the Chamber at 770-957-5786. To apply, download the application at www.leadershiphenry.com.

These pad maps are hot off the press and feature a map of Henry County on the front that includes attractions, shopping destinations, and meeting facilities. The back offers visitors an idea where Henry County is in relation to Metro Atlanta areas and surrounding attractions as well as providing facts. QR codes allow visitors with “Smart Phones” to access up-to-date

restaurant and hotel listings, specials and event information.

BookDirect was added to the HCCC/CVB site to allow travelers to search hotel rates and availability without leaving the site and funneling all booking requests directly back to the hotel.

In 2011 the HCCC/CVB website received more than 2000 visits via mobile

phones. In December a mobile website was launched to give mobile visitors easier and faster access to the mostly

commonly searched content.

A series of six postcards featuring Henry County scenes has been developed and will be included in gift bags for tourist groups and available for purchase at the HCCC/CVB welcome center.

*2010 is the most current data available. The 2011 Economic Impact Report should be available in the fall.

Billboards like this one are being used to promote local events with the potential to draw non-residents and

commuters traveling on I-75.

In March of 2011 Henry County set the record as the home of the largest single weekend amateur

baseball tournament in the world with 455 teams participat-

ing. In 2012, Henry County shattered its own record by hosting 510 teams for this

tournament. The HCCC/CVB was on-site at three of the parks during the weekend providing participants and their families with information and coupons.

The Visitors Guide is the official reference for tourists featuring restaurant, shop-

ping, hotel and attraction listings along with meeting facility information and

a calendar of annual events.

HenryCounty.Com6

It is no secret that beach destinations such as Myrtle Beach or Destin or cities with historical significance like Charleston and Savannah have an economy that is heavily based on tourism. It might be a surprise to learn that while Henry County may not be a “destination,” tourism is a vital piece of its economy. According the 2010 Economic Impact Study of Tourism conducted by the U.S. Travel Association*, approximately $188 million dollars was spent by tourist in Henry County. This equates to more than $500,000 A DAY being spent in Henry County. These expenditures by tourists mean $7.4 million in state tax and $5.7 million in local tax revenue. Another way of looking at these expenditures is as “Tourism Tax Relief” for residents who in 2010 would have had to pay $208 more per household in taxes to keep services the same had tourist not visited the area. These figures demonstrate the importance of pro-moting Henry County as a tourism destination. In 2011 the HCCC/CVB did this in a variety of ways.

T.I.E.D: Tourism Is Economic DevelopmentHow the HCCC/CVB Promotes Tourism

The Georgia Travel Guide is a yearly publication featuring all of Georgia’s attractions and lodging establishments. The HCCC/CVB

purchased 3 ads in the publication.

HenryCounty.Com 7

Summer-Long Vacation Planner

Summer Camps& Classes

Shopping

Fun &Educational

Fun Outsidethe Box

Family Fun• AtlantaFestivalBalletSummerPrincess&Sugar&Spice

Camps(June11-15&July16-20)• HenryArtsAllianceSummerCamps(June18-22)• Henry County Parks & Recreation Day Camps & Teen

camps• HenryCountyParks&Recreationclasses(dance,zumba,

musiclessons,oilpainting,etc.)• Noah’sArkAdventureSafari(June)

•Sherman’sTra

ilYardSale(May5-6)

•Noah’sArkAr

ts&CraftFair(May19)

•GeraniumFestiva

l(May)

•TangerOutlet

s(specialsalls

ummerlong)

• Farmer’sMa

rkets

• Henry Coun

ty Extension F

armers Market (May 31-

Sept.27)Herita

gePark

•HamptonFridayFar

mer’sMarket(June–Septem

ber)

2WestMainSt.

•LocustGrove

FarmersMarket(June–Octobe

r)

DowntownLocus

tGrove

•VeteransWallofHonor

•HeritageParkVillage

• HistoricalVeterans Museum (Open Monday – Friday

10:00a.m.–3:00p.m.)

•NashFarmBattlefield&Museum(OpenFriday

s&Satur-

days9:00a.m.–5:00p.m.)

•Noah’sArkAnimalRehabilitat

ionCenter(OpenTuesday–

SaturdayNoon–3:00p.m.)

•SandyRidgeBMX•FridayNightDrags•TreeClimbingatPanolaMountain•ZZZ’sintheTreesatPanolaMountain•WindyHillPaintBall• Henry County Radio Control Club at Red HawkNature

Preserve•LawnMowerRacing

•SoundsofSummerConcertSe

ries(May19;July21;Au-

gust18)StockbridgeCityH

allLawn

•StarsOverStockbridge–

MoonlightMovieSeries

•ThursdayThunder(Thurs

daysJune7-July26)

• The NeverEnding StorypresentedbytheHenryP

layers

(June28-July1)

•BerryPicking(April–July)Southe

rnBelleFarm

• PickYourOwnBlueberries

-YuleForestHwy155(June

–July)• Pick Your

Own Peaches (June – September) Gardner

PeachFarm

• July4th

•Hampton’sJulyFest

•PanolaMountain–Starlight&Fireworks

•HenryCountyFireworksExtravag

anza&Firecracker5K

•CommunityBibleChurchFreedom

Fest

•Geocaching

•StarliteSkatingCenter

•PinStrikesEntertainment

•FunBowl

Scan for Geocaching info.Scan for Mobile specials & Lodging Packages

For more information about any of these events and attractions visit www.visithenrycountygeorgia.com or call Laura Luker at (770) 957-5786.

HenryCounty.Com 9

R. W. ColeyMayor

P.O. Box 400 City Hall: 770.946.430617 East Main Street South Fax: 770.946. 4356Hampton, Georgia 30228

City ofHampton

If you’re looking for the perfect location, we can help. Along with SelectGeorgia, our pow-erful new state-of-the-art system for finding the best site or building for your company, our team of professionals provides world-class service to meet all your site location needs. We are here to be part of your team by providing our expertise, products, and services to you free of charge. From target industry knowledge to site analysis to visit coordination, we do it all. Contact us. We’re ON so you can be.®

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 75 FIFTH STREET NW, SUITE 175 ATLANTA, GA 30308 ECONDEVGA@SOUTHERNCO.COM WWW.SELECTGEORGIA.NET

934 DAILEY MILL ROADMcDONOUGH, GA 30253dbrown@servpro8537.com

OF CLAYTON COUNTYOF DECATUROF HENRY & SPALDING COUNTIES

Danny BrownGeneral Manager

(770) 997-5689(404) 378-9998(678) 432-3003

FAX: (770) 914-1078

Nationally Known - Locally Owned

FIRE & WATER- CLEANUP & RESTORATION24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

City of Stockbridge

Lee Stuart, Mayor

770-389-7910

Eddie Ausband,CFP

4920 N. Henry Blvd Stockbridge, GA 30281Phone: 770-507-401K770-389-9060 x 102 eausband@revanta.com

Henry County Chamber ofCommerce

Convention & Visitors Bureau1709 Highway 20 West

Westridge Business CenterMcDonough, GA 30253

770-957-5786

Henry County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

Proudly Serving Henry County

PuBlication of Henrycounty.com is maDe PossiBle in Part By tHe suPPort of tHe BoarD memBers of tHe Henry county cHamBer of commerce. Thank You!

Ethan HildrethSuperintendent

770-957-6601770-914-6178 FAX

ethan.hildreth@henry.k12.ga.us

22 N. Zack Hinton ParkwayMcDonough, Georgia 30253

www.cannonclevelandfunerals.com

Every LIFE has a story. Celebrate it!

770-914-1414Greg Cannon770-957-3915

City of McDonough

Billy Copeland, Mayor

Henry County’s choice for

770-775-7857www.cgemc.com www.companioncarega.com

Companion CareCremation Services

“Lillie”

910 Dailey Mill RoadMcDonough, GA 30253

770-692-3819Greg Cannon

owner

8

HenryCounty.Com10

BELLAMYSTRICKLAND

McDonough

I-75

770-954-3000

I-75 • Exit 216145 Industrial Blvd.

McDonough, GAHwy. 155

BELLAMY-STRICKLANDChevrolet • Oldsmobile • Pontiac • GMC Trucks

Youth Leadership Henry Class Graduates May 7 The Youth Leadership Henry Class of 2011-2012ended their curriculumonMarch17, 2012with a meeting at the Chamber of Commerce,followedby a driving tour ofHenry Countynar-ratedbyCountyHistorianGeneMorris. Theclassgainedvaluable insightsfromMr.Morrisregard-ing multiple important points of historical interest throughout the county, learning about the forma-tion of Henry County, critical junctures in our his-tory (rail location decisions, the routing of I-75,

the boll-weevil depression, etc.) that impactedcounty development. He explained corollariesregarding contemporary decisions being made inareasoffinance,transportation,etc.andtheirimpact upon future generations. Thedayendedat theAtlantaMotorSpeedwaywith Ted Austad, AMS Special Events Coordinator,providing a tour, and shedding light on the economic impactofAMSonHenryCountyandthestate.Classmembersespeciallyenjoyedexperiencingthetrack

first-handaspacecarswentwhippingby! YLHclassmembersvolunteeredwithHandsOnHenry, a project spearheaded by Leadership Henry, onApril21.TheclassmemberswillgraduatefromtheYouthLeadershipprogramonMay7. Rising sophomores with leadership potentialand a passion for community can email youthlead-ership@leadershiphenry.com for more informa-tionabout theprogramor toapply for the2012-2013YouthLeadershipHenryClass.

A – County Historian Gene Morris discussing the importance of railroads to henry as we navigate a crossing. B – Experiencing the steep bank at AMS turn one. C – Learning about our veterans contributions at Heritage Park.

A

B

C

The 2012 Chamber Golf ClassicPut September 24 on Your Calendar

TheChamberispleasedtoannouncethisyear’sGolfClassicwillbeatHeronBay’sCanongateGolfClubonMonday,September24,andcordiallyinvitesyouandyourbusinesstoparticipate.Sponsorshipsareavailablethataffordyourbusinessrecognitionatthisprestigiousevent. Asasponsor,yourcompanyhastheopportunitytosetupanexhibitonthecourseandtosendselectedstaffmembers,keyclientsorcustomerstoparticipateinthetournament.Ifasponsorshipdoesnotfitintoyourbudget,pleaseconsiderenteringateamoffourplayersforonly$750.Asalways,lunch, dinner and on-course beverages are included. Therewillbetwohole-in-onecontests:oneforanautomobileandtheotheranall-expenses-paidtrip(admission,mealsandaccommodations)foryourentireteamtothe2013Masters.

Available Sponsorships:Platinum - $5,000

Gold - $2,500Silver - $1,500

Team Only - $750**Limited availability

CashprizeswillbeawardedattheclosingdinnerforthetournamentchampionsandPuttingGreenContestwinners.

For more information about sponsoring the 12th Annual Golf Classic or to register a team, contact Gary Sparrow at 770-957-5786 or email gsparrow@henrycounty.com.

The 2012 Chamber Golf Classic

businessBoosters luncheonbusinessBoosters luncheon

May BusinessBoosters Luncheon

“New Rules for Networking”

Facilitated byThe Small Business Development Center,

Clayton State UniversityMay 17, 2012 • HCCC Hudgins Room

11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Not exactly a people-person? Do you find it awkward to talk to people you don’t know?

Don’t have an ice-breaker in your back pocket? You know you need to build friends and customers, but you feel on-the-spot?

Don’t worry! Networking has changed due to technology and increased customer focus. Bring plenty of business cards and get ready to learn the latest tricks of the networking game! The cost is $12 for Chamber members and $20 for non-members. Reservations are required. Call (770)957-5786 or email preeves@henrycounty.com for more information.

Navigating the next phase of healthcare reform: What are the current regulations required by the new healthcare law that may affect your bottom line?

Your Chamber Health Insurance Program In Review: Did you know your Chamber offers group health insurance discounts? Learn about brand new offerings

that will give you some ideas to provide the best insurance coverage at the most affordable rates, or a different strategy for health coverage.

Who should attend: All employers with 2 to 1,000 employeesWhen: Thursday, May 24, 2012 from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm

Where: HCCC Hudgins RoomCost: $10 – Includes lunch & great door prizes

For More Information, contact: Gary Monteith, Purchasing Alliance Solutions, 770-579-1214

To RSVP: Call Phyllis Reeves at 770-957-5786 or email preeves@henrycounty.com

Register now for a two-part Lunch & LearnHosted by Purchasing Alliance Solutions on

Navigating Healthcare Reform & Affordable Health Insurance

HenryCounty.Com 11

A panel of marketing experts, representing a variety of media outlets, provided attendees at the April 19 Busi-ness Boosters Luncheon with valuable information on target markets; developing relationships with potential clients; and utilizing multiple types of media to promote their businesses. According to Ken Hammock, Underwriting Special-ist for WVFJ.FM/The Joy FM, “Radio is the original ‘so-cial media’ – 93% of adults today listen to radio.” Ken stressed the real difference in marketing versus advertis-ing. “Advertising,” says Ken “is simply a tool or vehicle used as part of a Marketing Plan.” Ken talked about a “Call to Action” as determining in advance what action is desired from your target market. It may be that you want them to visit a store, visit a website, use a coupon, or take another action. Once you identify the desired outcome, you can tailor the message that works best to achieve it. “Be clear and concise when utilizing all types of advertising media” said Lisa Kinchen, Owner/Editor of H Magazine. “Don’t try to convey too much in limited spaces – instead drive them to your website where you

can tell them all about you and your business.” Modera-tor, Susan Hoffman, advised that “A current and relevant website is one of your best marketing tools; however, an outdated website can also drive customers away.” “Be aware that you can easily convert print media into a creative piece for cable and TV ads, resulting in cost savings and cohesive marketing” stated Jackie Tyler, Ad-vertising Executive with Comcast. “Get creative” offered Anita Hsu, a co-owner of Gezzo’s Surf & Grille, “offer some type of ‘draw’ whenever appropriate – give your custom-ers some type of “give back – even if it’s donating part of a profit back to a non-profit related to the customer. Not only does it build business; it also builds goodwill.” An attendee, Gwen Parks, with Sacred Journey Hos-pice, shared her own personal marketing testimony. “Find someone who knows how to help your business develop and implement a Marketing Plan – it’s worth every dime you spend on it.” Promote your business – go to the Chamber website, www.henrycounty.com, and check out the Marketing/Me-dia/Public Relations members and give one a call today!

APRIL BBLMarketing Advice from the Pros

businessAFter hours

Tri-County MayBusiness After Hours

Hosted by

Note Change in Date and Time

Club One (Building 8) 1500 Tara Place

Hampton

Tuesday,May225:30pm–7:00pm

(7:30forpacecarrides)

May’s Business After Hours is a unique, exciting, Tri-County event (combining Clayton, Griffin/Spalding and Henry Coun-ty Chambers of Commerce) hosted by Atlanta Motor Speedway at Club One (in Building 8). HCCC members please note the change in date and mark calendars accordingly. This event is for adults only (families/children are en-couraged to visit the AMS Open House on May 12). RSVP today then plan to arrive on time - sign-up for the limited number of pace car rides will begin 5:30 p.m. and only those who RSVP’d will be eligible for pace car rides. Pace car rides will take place between 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. (note extended time for rides only). Due to the size of the event and to ensure ad-equate planning, it is essential that attendees RSVP. Please email preeves@henrycounty.com to make your reser-vation today. There will be great door prizes as well as a $1 per ticket (cash only) 50/50 raffle – with 50% of collections going to one lucky winner and 50% will go to Speedway Children’s Charities. Directions: From I-75 take exit 218 and go toward Hampton on Ga 20 West ~ 10 mi – Follow Signs to AMS. En-ter via the Main Gate and proceed to Building 8 / Club One. Be sure to bring plenty of business cards to network with other Chamber members and for the door prize drawings.

HenryCounty.Com12

It was a beautiful Spring evening on the patio at 15th Street Pizza & Pub on March 22 where Chamber members networked while enjoying great Italian cuisine. 15th Street, Henry County’s oldest locally-owned and operated pizza parlor, owed by Dennis, Patrick and Katie McHugh, provided a great atmosphere for the gathering. Thanks to member businesses that supplied door prizes. Names drawn for the $200 Chamber jackpot were: Crystal Turnipseed, Chris Busbee and Davina Johnson. Since none of the members were present to win, the April jackpot will be $250.

Chamber Members Enjoyed the March Business After Hours at 15th Street Pizza

IF YOU WANT TO KNOW WHO’S ACCOUNTABLE, JUST READ THE NAME ON THE DOOR.

“For 40 years, Strawn & Co., Insurance has operated under the vision and values set by my father. He held himself directly accountable for the success of his clients, valuing relationships much more than transactions. I saw his integrity in action, sometimes at the expense of the company - but always what he thought was right. He built his name upon the respect and hon-esty of these long-term partner-ships. And as a Strawn, I couldn’t work any other way.”

- Rusty Strawn, President

Call or Come in Today!16 Hampton Street

McDonough, GA 30253

770-957-9005

As an independent insurance agency, Strawn & Co., Insurance is free to focus on what really counts: providing your family and/or business with the most comprehensive coverages and com-

petitive premiums available. This type of focus for our customers has kept Strawn & Co., Insurance one of the leading providers of

property, casualty, life & health insurance in south Atlanta.

PROUDLY OFFERING PERSONAL, BUSINESS & HEALTH INSURANCE

HenryCounty.Com 13

Attacking the supply side has not, and will not work. Even if we could stop the flow of drugs into the U.S., drug dealers would simply begin manufacturing synthetic cocaine and heroin in clandestine laboratories. They can do that now. The only reason they don’t is because it’s cheaper to import the drugs. Marijuana growers are producing high po-tency “home grown” marijuana right here in America. Ending the importation of marijuana would have little effect. Closing our borders and stopping the flow of drugs into the U.S. would not affect the methamphetamine, ec-stasy, LSD or PCP markets. All of these drugs are manufactured in clandestine laboratories inside the U.S. The federal government continues to spend billions of dollars on interdiction efforts attack-ing the supply side of the drug problem. But in spite of these efforts, as long as the market exists, drug dealers will continue to meet the demand. What we must do instead is to begin attacking the demand side of America’s drug problem. So, if we are to going to attack the demand side of the problem, shouldn’t we do so at the largest concentration of demand? The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that 77% of all drug users in this country are employed. Many other studies are available on state and local

levels supporting this statement. Most people think that when a drug user buys drugs, they get them on a street corner somewhere. But only 23% get their drugs that way. Seventy-seven percent get their drugs at work, often from co-workers. There are many reasons for this: Drug dealers feel much more comfortable dealing at work. They are less likely to get “hit” on a search warrant at their home, if they limit their dealing to the work-place. They won’t be arrested in a “jump ar-rest” on a street corner, if they deal at work. There is less chance of detection, greater access to a wider market and less chance of being “ripped-off” in the workplace. The largest concentration of demand for drugs in this country is within the American workforce. Attacking the demand here is our best chance of ending the drug problem in this country. If every business in America became a drug-free workplace, we could potentially re-duce our drug (and crime) problem by seven-ty-seven percent. Law enforcement could then handle the other twenty-three percent. Drug-free workplace programs like Georgia’s “Drugs Don’t Work” (DDW) pro-gram are much more important than most people realize. Drugs Don’t Work is more than just a program that benefits employ-

ers and employees; it also helps families, neighborhoods and communities, and may be the only true answer to our nation’s most serious problem. Drugs Don’t Work is the only program that makes substance abuse education available to adults. Delivering mandatory drug education through the workplace is a way to get drug education to adults. This drug education pro-gram produces a “trickle down effect” to the children of the workers. Many times after a DDW training session, parents come up and ask if the same information is available for their kids. Certification is a simple 5-step process. For more information, contact the Henry County Chamber of Commerce – 770-957-5786. In addition to helping reduce the drug and crime problems in our neighborhoods and communities, and providing much-needed drug prevention, drug treatment and drug education through the workplace, state certi-fied drug free workplaces in Georgia receive a state-mandated 7-1/2% discount on their workers’ compensation insurance premiums. This results in a substantial bottom-line sav-ings for companies. Contact Gary Sparrow at gsparrow@henrycounty.com for information.

America’s drug problem is a “supply and demand” problem.Drugs Don’t Work Program Can Save 7 ½% on Workers’ Comp Premium

Drugs Don’t Work is more than just a program that benefits

employers and employees; it also helps families, neighborhoods

and communities, and may be the only true answer to our

nation’s most serious problem.

If you need to purchase something you’ve never bought before, where do you go for information? If you want to find a good restau-rant that serves a certain

type of food, how do you find the restaurant? Chances are, you’ve used internet search engines to find products and services, compare differ-ent brands and types, and maybe even make the purchase. If you are a small business owner, you want people to find you when they look. If you don’t already have a website, there’s never been a better time to create one. There are excellent local web design firms that specialize in creating websites for small business-es, or you may prefer to create your own website. Google currently has a website, www.georgiag-etonline.org, that offers small business owners a free website, domain name, and web hosting for a year. Whether you have your website created or do it yourself, here are some questions to answer first: What do you want the website to do? Do you want the website to be an informational site where people can find out more about your company and product? Do you want people to be able to request

information on the product, or purchase the prod-uct online? Knowing the purpose of the site will help you include all the necessary elements. What questions should each page answer? This is where you should put yourself in potential customers’ shoes. If you were a customer, what an-swers would you seek on the home page and each subsequent page? Many small business owners make sure the home page reflects their style and philosophy, and forget that the most important thing is to give customers what they are looking for. When customers find your page through a search engine, they will usually only linger a few seconds before determining whether to stay. What are the words or phrases someone might type into the search engine to find you? Think about your own search habits. When you are look-ing for information on the internet you will prob-ably include the item/service and a location; for in-stance, “carpet cleaning McDonough GA.” Make a list of all the words a search for your business might include, and also consider common misspellings. Only seek a web design professional or do-it-yourself site after you’ve answered the basic ques-tions. You’ll save a lot of time, and be happier with the end result.

Does Your Small Business Need a Website?By Alisa Kirk, Clayton State University SBDC

HenryCounty.Com14

April 10CapSouth Partners1200 Keys Ferry Court, McDonough

Contact: Billy Duke(678) 272-7555

www.capsouthpartners.com

March 29Take Shape for LifeContact: Wendy Menard

(404) 301-5089www.tsfl.com

April 13Los Portales Mexican

Sports Bar & Grill1745 Rock Quarry Road, Stockbridge

Contact: Ron Castillo(770) 507-4020

www.losportalesmexican.com

Greece Was Great!FourteenexcitedtravelersdepartedtheChamberMarch22boundforAthens,GreecewheretheyspentfourdaystouringthesightsinandaroundAthenspriortoboardingashipandsailingtotheGreekIslesandTurkey.TheChamberofferedthis10-dayopportunityatagreatvalueviaColletteVacations.ThegroupwasamazedbythebeautyandhistoryofAthens;Mykonos;Kusadasi,Turkey;Ephasus;Patmos;Rhodes;Crete;Santorini;Mycenae;andCorinth–asktoseetheirphotos!AsprudentChamberrepresentativestheydidallintheirpowertoenhanceGreece’seconomy!

Chamber Ambassadors made “Chamber Connection” visits to randomly selected member businesses on March 14, delivering gift items and well wishes.

Connecting with Members

A Scarlet Thread, LLC

P & D Printing, Inc.

Upscale Resale Shoppe

Arrow Exterminators

Atlanta Bible College

Home Team Realty – Team Tidwell

Highlights….WhisperHeadsets•Rome•RegionalWineswithDinner•RavelloVillaRufolo•Vietri-sul-Mare•Sorrento•AmalfiCoast•Paestum

Pompeii•WineTasting•NaplesArcheologicalMuseum

Double $3,099 • Single $4,239 • Triple $3,419 per person

Book Now & Save $200 per personReservation Deadline of May 1st is almost here–CALL TODAY!

Rome&theAmalfiCoastNovember1-10,2012

Last Call for

This Trip...

Contact the

Chamber Today!

HenryCounty.Com 15

FINANCIAL FOCUSWhat Should You Do with a 401(k) When Leaving a Job? In the past, many people stayed at one job, or at least one company, for almost their entire working lives. When they retired, they could typically count on a pension, the value of which was based on their years of service and earnings. But to-day, workers can expect to hold several different jobs in their lifetime, and to a great extent, pensions have been replaced by 401(k) plans, which place much of the funding responsibility on employees. So, assuming you will change jobs at some point, and you do have a 401(k), what should you do with it?Here are your basic choices:

Cash out your plan. If you cash out your plan, your company will likely pay you 80 percent of your account value, withholding the rest for feder-al taxes. And if you’re younger

than age 59½, you may well be slapped with a 10 percent IRS tax penalty. Even worse, you’ll have lost a key source of your retirement income. Still, if you are leaving your employer involuntarily, and you need the money, cashing out your 401(k) is an option you may need to consider. Keep the money in your company’s plan. When you leave a company, your employer may allow you to keep your money in your existing 401(k). You may want to choose this route if you like the investment choices available in your plan. However, you might be caught by surprise if the company decides to change investment options. Furthermore, some employers may charge former employees fees to maintain their 401(k) plans.

Move the money into your new employer’s plan. If your new employer has a 401(k) and allows transfers, you could roll the money from your old plan into the new one. This might be an attrac-tive option if you like the in-vestment options in your new employer’s plan. Roll the money over to an IRA. You may find several ad-vantages to rolling your 401(k) over to an Individual Retire-ment Account (IRA). First, your money will still have the poten-tial to grow on a tax-deferred basis. Second, you can invest your funds in virtually any in-vestment you choose — stocks, bonds, government securities, certificates of deposit (CDs), etc. Third, if you own more than one 401(k) account, you could find it advantageous to

consolidate them into a single IRA, thereby making it easier to allocate and monitor your retirement assets. And fourth, IRAs may give you greater flex-ibility if you plan to pass money to your children. In fact, if your child inherits your IRA, he or she has the option of stretching withdrawals over the child’s entire lifetime, rather than tak-ing the money as a lump sum. (If you do transfer funds from your old 401(k) to an IRA, be sure to use a “direct rollover” to avoid the possibility of trig-gering unwanted taxes.) Before making any moves with your 401(k), consult with your tax and financial advi-sors. By looking closely at your options, and by getting pro-fessional guidance, you can make the choice that’s right for you.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Member SIPC

www.edwardjones.com

Decisions made in the past may no longer be what’s best for the future. To help keep everything up to date, Edward Jones offers a complimentary financial review.

A financial review is a great opportunity to sit face to face with an Edward Jones financial advisor and develop strategies to help keep your finances in line with your short- and long-term goals.

Financial AdvisorJohn H. Dorminy190 Turner Street

McDonough, GA 30253(770) 957-0250

Financial AdvisorLin Watts

305 Olde Towne WayMcDonough, GA 30252

(678) 583-1325

When it comes to your to-do list,put your future first.

To find out how to get your financial goals on track, call or visit today.

Before making any moves with your 401(k), consult with your tax and financial advisors.

HenryCounty.Com16