2014-15 Henry Factbook

HENRY 2014-2015

FACTBOOK

Published by the

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TOGOVERNMENT | EDUCATION | BUSINESS | SPORTS & RECREATION SENIOR LIVING | HENRY COUNTY COMMUNITY

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E X E C U T I V E publisher

Otis Brumby III

general managerLee B. Garrett

v.p. advertising Wade Stephens

E D I T O R I A L S T A F F

managing editor Brian T. Clark

editorNoreen Cochran

contributors Christine Fonville, Noreen Cochran, Bill Baldowski,

Maurice Dixon

layout and design Brian T. Clark, Mary Cosgrove

photographyKatherine Frye

A D V E R T I S I N G S T A F Fadvertising manager

Lynn Danson

advertising directorTara Guest

account executive Cristy Smith

graphic designers Beth Poirier, Jennifer Hall

P R O D U C T I O N

creative director Leigh Hall

circulation director Dave Gossett

HENRY FACTBOOK STAFF

CONTENTS:INDEX OF ADVERTISERS 6GOVERNMENT 7Local officials, city and county informationEDUCATION 15School information, test scoresBUSINESS & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 25Largest employers, job growth, chamber infoSPORTS & RECREATION 33Recreation centers, high school sportsSENIOR LIVING 39Senior centers, Henry County veteransCOMMUNITY 45Events, parks and organizations

Welcome to the 2014-2015 Henry FactbookWelcome to the inaugural edition of

the 2014-2015 Henry Factbook, an essential 56-page guidebook to

Henry County and its four cities, published by the Henry Neighbor, the county’s largest circulation newspaper for nearly 30 years.

Inside, you will find the facts, figures and faces you need to help you throughout the year, whether you are a lifelong resident, new to the community or considering a move here.

Please take note of our advertisers, whose support brings you these pages and who are just as enthusiastic about Henry County as we are.

Factbook highlights the unique aspects of this growing county.

More and more residents and businesses are discovering Henry County is the place to live, work and play.

Its population has increased 75 percent, from 119,000 in 2000 to 211,000 today.

Yet one can find small-town ambience on the Square in McDonough, by the train tracks in Locust Grove and Hampton, and in Stockbridge, considered the county’s gateway.

History is revered from railroad roots to 100-year-old businesses, demonstrating old-fashioned values can coexist with progressive and thoughtful development.

The county’s youth and those in their golden years are equally valued as evidenced by thriving senior centers awhirl with activity and growing educational opportunities like a new career academy and technical college campus.

Henry County’s landscape is varied, from thriving retail centers to the lushness of Southern Belle Farms in Stockbridge, the excitement of NASCAR racing at Hampton’s Atlanta Motor Speedway, the somber reverence of the Veterans Wall of Honor in McDonough and quaint residences in friendly neighborhoods throughout the four cities. Film and television studios find its locations compelling, their patronage creating jobs, awareness and excitement. But our people are our greatest resource, with civic-minded individuals helming nonprofits, foundations and community groups, business owners banding together to drive economic development, hospitality experts creating reasons to return again and again, and public servants protecting, representing and bringing new ideas and solutions to the people.

Perhaps you are one of them – or will be.We hope you will enjoy this brand-new

publication and will turn to it again and again.

Noreen Cochran

Editor

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HENRY FACTBOOK 2014/20156

FACTBOOK

INDEX OF ADVERTISERSBellamy Strickland 9C&C Fence 31Candace Carpet One 27Cannon Cleveland Funeral Directors

50

City of Hampton 4City of Stockbridge 26, 47Community Christian School

18

Crystal Lake/Eagles Brooke Golf

34

Cycle Nation 55Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy

23

F&F Floor Covering 13Fabric Town 40Fancy That Fine Jewelry 30Foundation Sports 36Georgia Lawn Equipment 37Georgia Pool Supply 49Governor’s Glen Memory Care

42

Harding Plumbing & HVAC

3

Henry County Recreation 38Home Rec 35Italian Oven 8Lake Dow Christian Academy

16

Los Portales 51Main Street Locust Grove 54Main Street McDonough 12McDonough Business Development

29

Mrs. Winner’s 28New Creation Christian Academy

21

Nitro Motor Sports 46Ohio Christian University 22Patrick Rentals 32Pilgreen’s Steakhouse 24Piorra Mattress 11Primrose School 17Riner’s Appliance 48Sacred Journey Hospice 44Smokin’ Swine 56Southern Crescent Technical College

19

State Farm 2Stockbridge Dental 43Tara Properties 53Terrell’s Pools & Spas 37The Bridge Oyster Bar 36The Palms at Lake Spivey

41

The Paw Pad 11Wilson Bros Nursery 13Yule Forest 18

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GOVERNMENTELECTED OFFICIALS, IMPORTANT NUMBERS AND MORE

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Italian Oven-Metro Atlanta

938 Eagles Landing Parkway • Stockbridge(770) 507-4827 • www.theitalianoven.com

Full Service Casual Dining, Offering over 20 pasta dishes, fresh seafood, salads,

brick oven pizzas, calzones & strombolis.

Bar • Italian Coffees • Desserts • Pastas • Pizza

Hours:Monday 11am - 10pm

Tues. - Sun. 11am - 11pm


STATE LEGISLATORS

Emanuel JonesDistrict 10 State Sen.

D-Decatur emanuel.jones

@senate.ga.gov(770) 964-8888

Rick JeffaresDistrict 17 State Sen.

R-Locust Grove rick.jeffares

@senate.ga.gov(678) 432-7676

John YatesDistrict 73 State Rep.

R-Griffinjohn.yates

@house.ga.gov(770) 227-1474

Sandra Scott District 76 State Rep.

D-Rex sandra.scott

@house.ga.gov(404) 656-0314

GOVERNMENT

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145 Industrial Blvd.McDonough, GA 30253

I-75 • Exit 216770.954.3000

• Quicklube• Certified Service• Car Wash

• Collision Center• New & Used Sales• Commercial Department

Bellamy Strickland has been providing customer service to Henry County and surrounding areas forover 20 years. We have several departments to accommodate the needs of all vehicle makes and models.

Please visit us on the web at: www.bellamystrickland.com

Demetrius Douglas

District 78 State Rep.D-Stockbridge

[email protected](404) 656-7859

David KnightDistrict 130 State Rep.

R-Griffindavid.knight

@house.ga.gov(678) 464-4926

Pam StephensonDistrict 90 State Rep.


Dale Rutledge

District 109 State Rep. R-McDonoughdale.rutledge

@house.ga.gov(404) 656-0109

Andy Welch

District 110 State Rep. R-McDonough


Brian Strickland

District 111 State Rep.R-McDonough

[email protected]

(404) 656-01019

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GOVERNMENT

Tommy SmithChairman


Gary BarhamDistrict 3gbarham

@co.henry.ga.us(770) 288-6001

Bo MossDistrict 1bmoss

@co.henry.ga.us(770) 288-6001

Reid BowmanDistrict 4district4

@co.henry.ga.us(770) 288-6001

Brian PrestonDistrict 2bpreston

@co.henry.ga.us(770) 288-6001

Bruce HolmesDistrict 5bholmes

@co.henry.ga.us(770) 288-6001

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSNote:

2014 is an election year. District 3 Commissioner Gary Barham is opposed in the Nov. 4 election. District 4 Commissioner Reid Bowman lost the May 20 Republican primary to Blake Prince. District 5 Commissioner Bruce Holmes is unopposed.

HENRY COUNTY INFOIncorporated: May 15, 1821Population: 211,000Total area: 322.7 square miles140 Henry Pkwy.McDonough, Ga. 30253 (770) 288-6000www.co.henry.ga.us

Henry County, created in 1821 from Creek Indian lands, recognizes Patrick Henry, Virginia patriot. McDonough, the county seat, is named for Commodore Thomas McDonough who was victorious over the British on Lake Champlain during the War of 1812. The state legislature later divided land originally set aside as Henry County into Butts, Clayton, DeKalb, Fulton, Newton and Spalding counties and large portions of present day Rockdale and Fayette counties.

Source: www.georgia.gov

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LOCUST GROVEPopulation: 5,700 City Hall: 3644 Hwy. 42 Locust Grove, Ga.

30248 Phone: (770) 957-5043 Web: www.locustgrove-ga.govLocated within 35 miles of downtown Atlanta to the southeast at

I-75 and Bill Gardner Parkway, the city offers a growing selection of retail, dining, lodging and business opportunities. The city is home to Tanger Outlet Centers and a unique train-watching platform where residents and enthusiasts can watch more than 40 trains passing through Locust Grove each day, just steps away from unique shops and restaurants.

Vernon AsheCouncilman

Robert PriceLocust Grove Mayor

[email protected]

All city council members receive email through City Clerk Tracey Sullivan,

[email protected]

James Sam RosserCouncilman

Frances WardCouncilwoman

Keith BooneCouncilman

Otis HammockCouncilman

Sammy BrownCouncilman

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MCDONOUGH INFOGOVERNMENT

Population: 23,000 136 Keys Ferry St., McDonough, Ga. 30253 (770) 957-3915www.mcdonoughga.org

McDonough is a National Main Street City and City of Character. It has a 1920s prototype service station as its welcome center, which is the headquarters of both Main Street McDonough and McDonough Hospitality and Tourism.

Billy CopelandMayor

(678) [email protected]

Gail NottiAt Large Councilwoman


Roger PruittAt Large Councilman


Rufus StewartDistrict 1 Councilman


Kamali VarnerDistrict 4 Councilwoman


Craig ElrodDistrict 3 Councilman


Sandra VincentDistrict 2 Councilwoman


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“We love our new floors! Scott and his team did animmaculate job and paid attention to every detail.

Thanks F&F Floor Covering!” – Ashley Post Cochran, McDonough

• • • for a lifetime of l iving • • •

770-957-216545 Griffin Street

McDonough

Hardwood • Carpet • Ceramic Tile • LVT • Laminate • Vinyl • Blinds

F&FFLOOR COVERING

� � � e a r s i n F l o o r i n g !www.fandffloorcovering.com

STOCKBRIDGEPopulation: 27,000 Address: 4640 N. Henry Blvd Stockbridge, Ga. 30281 Phone: (770) 389-7900Web: www.cityofstockbridge.com

The city of Stockbridge is located in the northern part of Henry County Stockbridge is often recognized as the gateway to the county. The city has close proximity to I-75 as well as I-675. Supportive economic development, excellent public services and fabulous small-town hospitality are all reasons why Stockbridge continues to enjoy tremendous growth.

Tim ThompsonMayor

LaKeisha T. GanttCouncilwoman

Robin BuschmanCouncilwoman

Anthony S. FordCouncilman

Richard SteinbergCouncilman

Alphonso ThomasCouncilman

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GOVERNMENT

CITY OF HAMPTON PROFILEPopulation: 7,000 Address: 17 East Main St. S. Hampton, Ga. 30228 Phone: (770) 946-4306 Web: www.cityofhampton-ga.gov

Hampton enjoys the benefits of a small town atmosphere, while being comfortably south of Atlanta. It is home to the Atlanta Motor Speedway, located less than two miles from downtown Hampton.

Tour a brewery in the old jailhouse, or take a historic walking tour, enjoy a meal at a Japanese steakhouse, buy Georgia grown and made foods, beverages, merchandise and books, and more.

The historic Hampton train depot was built in 1881. It was listed on the National Registry of Historic Places in 1979.

In 2013, Hampton was one of 217 cities designated as a Playful City — the only city in Henry County to achieve this designation.

Steve HutchisonMayor

[email protected]

P.O. Box 400Hampton, Ga. 30228

Photos of Hampton City Council members were unavailable

Mary Ann [email protected]

Charlie [email protected]

Henry [email protected]

Zachery [email protected]

Marty [email protected]

Harold “Willie” [email protected]

HOME DEPOT CREATES 300 JOBS IN HENRYBy Noreen [email protected]

County Chairman Tommy N. Smith was one of several invited guest speakers at the South Metro Development Outlook Conference, held at the Georgia International Convention Center in College Park earlier this year.

Smith gave a presentation on the Home Depot Direct fulfillment center, which recently opened in Locust Grove.

He said Home Depot’s capital investment in the new facility was more than $80 million and will eventually create 300 jobs in Henry County.

He noted that the new facility is one of four Home Depot supply chain facilities that operates in Henry County and there are many reasons businesses are choosing to locate to the county.

Smith also briefly discussed the

importance of the Southern Crescent Technical College’s Henry County campus, which is expected to open this year.

One building is near completion and the master plan is to have eight buildings adjacent to Henry County High School in McDonough.

Also in attendance at the conference were Commissioner Bruce Holmes and county Development Authority Director Bob White.

During the afternoon session, Mercer University economist Roger Tutterow predicted metro Atlanta in 2014 will continue its journey to a pre-recession “normal.”

“There is nothing to suggest that 2014 will be anything other than a sixth year of economic expansion,” he said about indicators like consumer confidence, gross domestic product and a monthly index from New York-based think tank The Conference Board. Even with GDP growth at 3.2 percent, the economy still has to cross

two “thresholds” before regaining 2007’s momentum, Tutterow said. One is the amount of equity in homeowners’ property; the other is the number of employed residents, which he said is returning to 2007 levels.

“We’re adding jobs faster than the national average,” Tutterow said. He said job seekers from other states will relocate in greater numbers to the metro area, including the Southern Crescent – of which Henry County is part – as it is becoming “a hub” for film and television companies.

When newcomers arrive, they will be securing loans for new homes more easily than in the last six years, at interest rates not likely to rise for at least a year, Tutterow said.

“The bank of today wants to make loans. It’s a borrower’s market if you can qualify,” he said. Another economic indicator is the number of permits issued for new home construction, a figure which plunged 34 percent during the recession.

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EDUCATIONSchool listings, test scores, school system information

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education

Staff / Katherine FryeAs the new superintendent of Henry County Schools, Rodney Bowler looks forward to instituting fresh teaching techniques and learning tools for students.

A fresh start

New superintendent takes the reins

By Christine Fonville

There was a new face in the office of superintendent of Henry County Schools last spring, but many students, faculty and staff are already familiar with Rodney Bowler.

That’s because Bowler, who has been in education for 25 years, has spent most of his career – 23 years to be exact – right here in the county.

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2014/2015 HENRY FACTBOOK 17

education“After working as an educator at

Eagle’s Landing High School, I became the assistant principal in 1995 and then went on to become the first principal of Union Grove High School in 2000,” he said.

“I then became director of human resources for the county’s central office.”

Bowler said he is honored to take on the position of superintendent in what he said was a “wonderful school system with great staff members.”

“One nice thing for me is that there is a sense of comfort with this position because I know our county and community and they know me as well,” he said.

However, Bowler said comfort does not equal complacency.

“I want to advance the work this system is already doing to make our schools even more successful,” he said.

Bowler said his vision for the school system is one of “rigor, relevance and

relationships” and includes recognizing each student as an individual.

“Our students are given the strongest rigor and high expectations, but in order

for them to succeed we, as a school system, must make sure what we’re teaching is relevant to what they’re interested in and focused on,” he said.

“We want to build strong relationships with kids in order to know them, support them and encourage them and then recognize that each child is different. Once what they are learning is relevant to them, it allows us to have high expectations.”

Bowler said he believes school systems in general are moving “down a road of personalized learning” and it should be OK to expect students to excel and master skills at different rates and levels.

“We need to open our minds and realize that mastery isn’t just about getting test questions correct,” he said.

“Our main focus for the next several years is to make sure each student is highly successful and we’re well-positioned to do that because our financial landscape seems to be improving.”

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HENRY COUNTYBOARD OF EDUCATION

Note: 2014 is an election year. In the May 20 primary, Donna McBride won District 4 and Annette Edwards won District 5. Their terms begin Jan. 1, 2015.

Rodney M. BowlerSuperintendentrodney.bowler

@henry.k12.ga.us(770) 957-6601

Ryan DavisDistrict 4 ; Vice-Chair

[email protected]

(770) 957-6601

Mike GriffinDistrict 3

[email protected]

(770) 957-6601

Erik CharlesDistrict 5

[email protected]

(770) 957-6601

Josh HintonDistrict 2

[email protected]

(770) 957-6601

Pam NuttDistrict 1; Chair

[email protected]

(770) 957-6601

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Griffin Campus770.228.7348

Flint River Campus706.646.6148

Butts Center770.504.7590

Jasper Center706.468.9930

Taylor Center478.862.2323

www.sctech.eduAccounting

Air Conditioning Technology

Applied Technical Management

Auto Collision Repair

Automotive

Business Admin. Technology

Business Management

Carpentry

CNC Technology

Commercial Truck Driving

Computer Database Specialist

Computer Networking

Computer Programming

Construction Management

Cosmetology

Criminal Justice

CT Scan

Culinary Arts

Dental Assisting

Design & Media Production

Diesel Equipment Technology

Drafting

Early Childhood Education

Electrical Systems Technology

EMS Professions

Firefighter/EMSP

Fire Science Technology

Forensic Science

Health Information Technology

Horticulture

Industrial Systems Technology

Logistics

Machine Tool Technology

Medical Assisting

Orthopaedic Technology

Paralegal Studies

Paramedicine

Patient Care Assistant/CNA

Pharmacy Technology

Photography

Plumbing/Pipefitting

Practical Nursing

Radiologic Technology

Respiratory Care

Surgical Technology

Web Applications Development

Web Site Design

Welding & Joining Technology

Of fering a higher degree

of success.

Henry CenterNOW OPEN!

770.914.4411

A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia Equal Opportunity InstitutionAPPLY TODAY! CLASSES BEGIN SOON!

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education

HENRY COUNTY TEST SCORES

Source: Georgia Department of EducationNotes: 2014 scores are for the 2012-13 school year, reported in April 2014. 2013 scores are for the 2011-12 school year.

2014 2013State elementary schools 77.8 83.4 iSystem elementary schools 78.1 87.9 iAustin Road Elementary 67.0 65.7 hBethlehem Elementary 68.5 69.4 iCotton Indian Elementary 77.7 73.9 hDutchtown Elementary 83.7 83.6 hEast Lake Elementary 87.5 84.4 hFairview Elementary 75.2 76.8 iFlippen Elementary 82.8 74.3 hHampton Elementary 79.3 78.9 hHickory Flat Elementary 83.2 88.8 iLocust Grove Elementary 63.6 69.0 iLuella Elementary 83.4 81.7 hMcDonough Elementary 74.1 81.1 iMount Carmel Elementary 79.8 85.7 iNew Hope Elementary 83.3 81.9 hOakland Elementary 62.0 56.6 hOla Elementary 83.4 81.4 hPate’s Creek Elementary 83.1 89.0 iPleasant Grove Elementary 84.9 82.4 hRed Oak Elementary 73.3 80.3 iRock Spring Elementary 80.7 81.8 iRocky Creek Elementary 84.0 82.7 hSmith-Barnes Elementary 76.4 77.1 iStockbridge Elementary 78.6 87.1 iTimber Ridge Elementary 78.5 88.0 iTussahaw Elementary 79.8 80.5 iUnity Grove Elementary 79.2 80.3 iWalnut Creek Elementary 78.6 85.6 iWesley Lakes Elementary 67.5 79.1 iWoodland Elementary 86.1 80.5 h

Elementary school CCRPI scores Middle school CCRPI scores2014 2013

State middle schools 74.6 81.4 iSystem middle schools 79.7 83.9 iAustin Road Middle 78.4 79.6 iDutchtown Middle 85.4 88.5 iEagle’s Landing Middle 79.1 80.6 iHampton Middle 73.5 73.6 iHenry County Middle 74.4 71.5 hLocust Grove Middle 77.4 75.3 hLuella Middle 75.7 82.4 iOla Middle 87.2 75.7 hStockbridge Middle 75.3 69.7 hUnion Grove Middle 88.0 86.4 hWoodland Middle 84.7 75.0 h

High school CCRPI scores2014 2013

State high schools 71.8 72.6 iSystem high schools 70.5 74.9 iDutchtown High 80.2 75.3 hEagle’s Landing High 68.2 74.2 iHenry County High 66.1 66.5 iLocust Grove High 65.8 71.0 iLuella High 63.7 68.1 iOla High 79.4 82.7 iPatrick Henry High 61.1 44.0 hStockbridge High 66.3 61.3 hUnion Grove High 86.1 90.1 iWoodland High 69.6 79.2 i

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education

HENRY COUNTY SAT SCORES2013 2012

Perfect score 2400 2400U.S. 1498 1500State 1452 1452System 1376 1386 iDutchtown 1350 1406 iEagle’s Landing 1504 1428 hHenry County 1294 1248 hLocust Grove 1342 1358 iLuella 1336 1353 iOla 1433 1487 iStockbridge 1312 1291 hUnion Grove 1556 1533 hWoodland 1369 1440 i

Staff / Katherine FryeFrom left, best friends Alyshea Wimberly and Daijah Clark hug after senior walk at Ola High.

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HENRY COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLSAcademy for Advanced Studies 401 E. Tomlinson St. McDonough, Ga. 30253

Austin Road Elementary 50 Austin Road Stockbridge, Ga. 30281

Austin Road Middle 100 Austin Road Stockbridge, Ga. 30281

Bethlehem Elementary 1000 Academic Pkwy. Locust Grove, Ga. 30248

Cotton Indian Elementary 1201 Old Conyers Road Stockbridge, Ga. 30281

Dutchtown Elementary 159 Mitchell Road Hampton, Ga. 30228

Dutchtown High 149 Mitchell Road Hampton, Ga. 30228

Dutchtown Middle 155 Mitchell Road Hampton, Ga. 30228

Eagle’s Landing High 301 Tunis Road McDonough, Ga. 30253

Eagle’s Landing Middle 295 Tunis Road McDonough, Ga. 30253

East Lake Elementary 199 East Lake Road McDonough, Ga. 30253

Fairview Elementary 458 Fairview Road Stockbridge, Ga. 30281

Flippen Elementary 425 Peach Drive McDonough, Ga. 30252

Hampton Elementary 10 Central Ave. Hampton, Ga. 30228

Hampton High 795 Hampton-Locust Grove Road Hampton, Ga. 30228

Hampton Middle 799 Hampton-Locust Grove Road, Hampton, Ga. 30228

Henry County High 401 E. Tomlinson St. McDonough, Ga. 30253

Henry County Middle 166 Holly Smith Drive McDonough, Ga. 30253

Hickory Flat Elementary 841 Brannan Road McDonough, Ga. 30253

Locust Grove Elementary 95 Griffin Road Locust Grove, Ga. 30248

Locust Grove High 3275 S. Ola Road Locust Grove, Ga. 30248

Locust Grove Middle 3315 S. Ola Road Locust Grove, Ga. 30248

Luella Elementary 575 Walker Drive Locust Grove, Ga. 30248

Luella High 603 Walker DriveLocust Grove, Ga. 30248

Luella Middle 2075 Hampton-Locust Grove Road, Locust Grove, Ga. 30248

McDonough Elementary 330 Tomlinson St. McDonough, Ga. 30253

Mount Carmel Elementary 2450 Mount Carmel Road Hampton, Ga. 30228

New Hope Elementary 1655 New Hope Road Locust Grove, Ga. 30248

Oakland Elementary 551 Hwy. 81 West McDonough, Ga. 30253

Ola Elementary 278 N. Ola Road McDonough, Ga. 30252

Ola High 357 N. Ola Road McDonough, Ga. 30252

Ola Middle 353 N. Ola Road McDonough, Ga. 30252

Pate’s Creek Elementary 1309 Jodeco Road Stockbridge, Ga. 30281

Patrick Henry Academy109 Lee St. Stockbridge, Ga. 30281

Pleasant Grove Elementary 150 Reagan Road Stockbridge, Ga. 30281

Red Oak Elementary 175 Monarch Village Way Stockbridge, Ga. 30281

Rock Spring Elementary 1550 Stroud Road McDonough, Ga. 30252

Rocky Creek Elementary 803 Hampton-Locust Grove Road, Hampton, Ga. 30228

Smith-Barnes Elementary 147 Tye St. Stockbridge, Ga. 30281

Stockbridge Elementary 4617 N. Henry Blvd. Stockbridge, Ga. 30281

Stockbridge High 1151 Old Conyers Road Stockbridge, Ga. 30281

Stockbridge Middle 533 Old Conyers Road Stockbridge, Ga. 30281

Timber Ridge Elementary 2825 Ga. Hwy. 20 McDonough, Ga. 30252

Tussahaw Elementary 225 Coan Drive McDonough, Ga. 30252

Union Grove High 120 East Lake Road McDonough, Ga. 30252

Union Grove Middle 210 East Lake Road McDonough, Ga. 30252

Unity Grove Elementary 1180 LeGuin Mill Road Locust Grove, Ga. 30248

Walnut Creek Elementary 3535 McDonough Pkwy. McDonough, Ga. 30253

Wesley Lakes Elementary 685 McDonough Pkwy. McDonough, Ga. 30253

Woodland Elementary 830 N. Moseley Drive Stockbridge, Ga. 30281

Woodland High 800 N. Moseley Drive Stockbridge, Ga. 30281

Woodland Middle 820 N. Moseley Drive Stockbridge, Ga. 30281

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educationHENRY COUNTY PRIVATE SCHOOLSAnother Brilliant Child Montessori AcademyMcDonough(770) 957-9998www.abcmontessori.us

Bible Baptist Christian SchoolHampton(770) 946-4700www.biblebaptistchristianschool.com

Community Christian SchoolStockbridge(678) 432-0191www.communitychristianschool.net

Creekside Christian AcademyMcDonough(770) 961-9300www.creeksideacademy.org

Closer Look Christian AcademyMcDonough(770) 320-8608www.closerlookacademy.com

Eagle’s Landing Christian AcademyMcDonough(770) 957-2927www.elcaonline.org

Heritage Baptist Christian SchoolLocust Grove(770) 320-7735www.hbcsga.org

High Point Christian AcademyStockbridge(678) 289-9701www.hpcacademy.org

Lake Dow Christian AcademyMcDonough(770) 957-5728

Living Word ChristianMcDonough(770) 954-0797www.livingwordchristianacademy.net

New Creation Christian AcademyMcDonough(770) 898-9728www.nccacademy.net

North Henry AcademyStockbridge(770) 389-1591www.northhenryacademy.com

People’s Baptist AcademyMcDonough(770) 914-7388www.peoplesbaptistacademy.org

Primrose SchoolStockbridge(678) 289-4777www.primroseschools.com

Strong Rock Christian SchoolLocust Grove(678) 833-1200www.strongrockchristianschool.com

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education HANDS ONAcademy for Advanced Studies catches on

Staff / Katherine FryeFrom left, Principal John Uesseler gets a lesson in 3D design from teacher Brandi Burns with the Inventor program at the Academy of Advanced Studies.

By Christine Fonville

Filling a need in the county’s business landscape led to the first-year success of the Academy for Advanced Studies, which experienced a 43 percent enrollment jump for next year and a commitment for $3.4 million in construction funds from the state.

Its CEO, John Uesseler, said the inaugural school year of the county’s only career academy exceeded his expectations.

Uesseler said the idea for the program arose from a strong partnership with the county’s school system and business community, including the development

authority and the chamber of commerce, whose leaders expressed the need for a workforce with stronger skills. Its program includes engineering, culinary arts, cosmetology, electronics, public safety, broadcast video, health care sciences and teaching.

“We essentially borrow students for part of the day,” Uesseler said. “Those students belong to a school in the county, but we’re offering them an opportunity to participate in innovative programs that our business and industry communities have said are important to them.”

Uesseler said the career academy plans to expand

the 2014-15 curriculum to include automotive, metal fabrication, construction trades, energy systems, marketing, graphic design and information technology networking classes.

Sharing space with Henry County High School and the Henry County Performing Arts Center in McDonough, the career academy also will expand its footprint through a $3.4 million construction project to add more classrooms and labs. Uesseler said in its inaugural year, about 1,400 students signed up to pursue a technical career path, making it the second-largest career academy program in the state.

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BUSINESS

& Economic Development

HENRY_FB2014_(25) 25 7/10/2014 2:42:49 AM


BUSINESS

HENRY COUNTY’S TOP

Employers51

2

34

5

Henry County School System 4,800 employeeswww.henry.k12.ga.us (770) 957-6601

Henry County Government1,595 employeeswww.co.henry.ga.us(770) 288-6000

Piedmont Henry Hospital1,115 employeeswww.piedmont.org(678) 604-1000 Federal Aviation Administration

800 employeeswww.faa.org(770) 210-7532

Georgia Power Customer Care Center600 employees

HENRY_FB2014_(26) 26 7/10/2014 2:44:15 AM


BUSINESSChamber of commerce plans to boost tourismBy Christine [email protected]

In a meeting in earlier this year, members of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce spoke about future events and projects that the organization hopes will encourage more business and growth in the county.

Jeff Mills, chairman of the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau board of directors, said part of the chamber’s goal is to “encourage people from outside of the county to come to [the county’s] businesses and spend money.”

He used sports tournaments and the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race as examples of high-traffic events where promotion could help local businesses.

“About 40,000 people come outside of the county to participate in these sports events every year,” Mills said. “Those are

opportunities for our county’s businesses to flourish and to encourage people to visit some of our more unique and one-of-a-kind attractions, like Noah’s Ark in Locust Grove.”

The animal sanctuary is the only place in the world that has a lion, tiger and bear living together, Mills said.

Next, June Wood, chair-elect of the chamber’s education foundation, spoke about the nonprofit’s plans to help expand educational institutions in the county.

“Our purpose is to partner with the board of education and support initiatives,” she said.

The nonprofit is associated with the formation of the Academy for Advanced Studies in McDonough, the first charter school in the county to focus on career development.

Now, said Wood, the foundation’s goal is to help with the building and add-ons to Southern Crescent Technical College, located

close to Henry County High School.“We’re excited to have this eight-building

campus coming to the county,” she said.The nonprofit is trying to encourage the

community to support a brick campaign to help fund future equipment and facility needs.

For $60 per brick, residents can memorialize or honor the name of a loved one to be placed in the courtyard on campus.

Mary Evans-Battle, a member of Leadership Henry, spoke about her experiences and upcoming projects with the organization.

“Through my experiences in the Leadership Henry program, I’ve learned not only about county operations but community engagements as well,” she said. “As a group, we hope to identify certain issues in the community and learn to develop relationships, which this organization does very well.”

HENRY_FB2014_(27) 27 7/10/2014 2:46:33 AM


BUSINESS WORK FORCEJob fair draws 10,000 applicants

Congress is helping to save the mortgages of residents experiencing unemployment, where in metro Atlanta the latest figure is 7.3 percent, through a job fair held recently by District 13 U.S. Rep. David Scott, D-Atlanta, whose district includes parts of Henry County.Wells Fargo representative Traci Walker of Henry County talks to job-

seekers at the recent 11th annual Congressional job fair in College Park.

Story and Photo by Noreen Cochran

HENRY_FB2014_(28) 28 7/10/2014 2:48:04 AM


BUSINESSThe 11th annual event at the Georgia

International Convention Center in College Park featured a Georgia Department of Community Affairs program to protect unemployed or underemployed homeowners from foreclosure.

Scott said the HomeSafe Georgia program, through which residents can qualify for 18 to 24 months of free home mortgage payments, was funded by Congress in 2008.

“It’s from our Hardest Hit program that we were able to attach to the Wall Street bailout bill,” he said about the $700 billion legislation.

“As we said, if we can bail out Wall Street, and those big companies up there, we’ve got to get some help down at the lower-income and middle-income [levels] for struggling homeowners.”

At the February job fair, Scott estimated more than 10,000 applicants came from all over the metro Atlanta area.

“Isn’t that something,” he said about a line of hundreds of applicants waiting to register.

“This is big.”The attendees met about 100 employers

who committed to filling nearly 4,500 vacancies.

“They have those openings they are looking to fill because one of the requirements that we have for employers coming, they’ve got to hire

people. They have to have openings,” Scott said.

Employers like the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, SunTrust, UPS, Regions Bank, Wells Fargo Bank and Waffle House represented industries seeing growth, according to the Georgia Department of Labor.

In jobless figures for the state and metro Atlanta – 7.1 and 6.9 percent, respectively, in February – the sectors shedding the fewest workers included accommodations, hospitality, transportation and warehousing.

Those industries plus financial services were among those gaining the most jobs year-to-year in metro Atlanta, where the February 2013 unemployment rate was 8.4 percent.

“This is the eighth month in a row that Georgia’s unemployment rate has declined,” state Labor Commissioner Mark Butler said in a statement. “The rate dropped in February because Georgia employers created nearly 7,000 new jobs and reduced the number of new layoffs more than 30 percent.”

“

”-David Scott

...if we can bail out Wall Street, and those big companies up there, we’ve got to get some help down at the lower-income and middle-income [levels] for struggling homeowners.

HENRY_FB2014_(29) 29 7/10/2014 2:50:34 AM


BUSINESS

Toast and RoastHenry Council for Quality Growth honors local businessesBy Christine [email protected]

Top elected officials, business leaders and other members of the Henry County community paid tribute to a high-tech company, a bank and an economic development guru at the Henry Council for Quality Growth’s annual meeting this year.

Attendees included McDonough Mayor Billy Copeland, Stockbridge Mayor Tim Thompson and Hampton Mayor Steve Hutchison.

The special meeting, which this year included dinner at the Hazlehurst House at 77 Sloan St. in McDonough, honors and names a county business of the year and member of the year.

“We host this event each year to highlight and honor a business we view as a game-changer in the community. The business is innovative and will help the county grow and succeed,” said council Executive Director Steve Cash.

The business honored this year was Community Broadband LLC, an Internet service that specializes in fiber-based, high-speed broadband.

The company, which was originally founded in Savannah, moved its regional headquarters to Stockbridge in October.

“It wasn’t a hard decision to select Community Broadband LLC because we focused on progressive companies who stood out in 2013 representing quality growth and commitment to Henry County,” said Clate Wall, chairman of the council and of Double Eagle Land Development.

Allen Davis, Community Broadband president, accepted the honor and thanked the council for working with the newly relocated company.

The council’s member of the year was Heritage Bank, which Cash said “played a critical role in the ongoing support of the council.”

Similarly, Leonard Moreland, bank CEO, accepted the award and said, “[The council] is a vital part of our community and we are happy to be a part of growing Henry County.”

New to the annual meeting this year, the event included a good-natured roast to honor community member Bob White, who has served as the executive director of the Henry County Development Authority since 1995, following 15 years in economic development at Atlanta Gas Light Co.

“Bob has been a leader in economic development in the state for many years and has had a significant impact on ensuring quality growth in Henry County. Plus, he has a terrific sense of humor and lots of friends who were ready to roast him, which made him the perfect honoree for our first roast,” said council member Laura Turner of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

Local attorney Rod Meadows served as emcee for the roast, while Jackson Mayor Kay Pippin, Pat Topping of the Macon Economic Development Commission and Jim Flanagan, business development consultant, regaled the attendees with humorous stories and kudos for White’s economic development efforts in the county.

White thanked his friends and colleagues as well as the council.

At the end of the ceremony, Cash made closing comments, thanked the attendees for their commitment to the council and community and reminded members about the council’s Golf Fore Growth tournament June 16 at Eagle’s Landing Country Club in Stockbridge.

HENRY_FB2014_(30) 30 7/10/2014 2:53:06 AM

HENRY_FB2014_(31) 31 7/10/2014 2:54:24 AM


BUSINESS

MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK5 tips for tax refunds, bonuses and other ‘windfalls’

A tax refund or bonus can be a windfall, and it’s tempting to celebrate by splurging on a big-ticket item, according to Sharon Hightower, a consumer banking executive for Regions Bank.

“Before that check hits the mailbox or the bank account, consider your overall financial health and how the extra cash may pay dividends over the long term,” she said. “Any one of these five tips – or even a combination of them – can help make the most of a refund.”

1

5

4

3

2

Pay off debt.

Tackle home improvements.

Save for retirement.

Contribute to a 529 plan.

Start or build an emergency fund.

“Debt can be burdensome, whether from credit cards, student loans or special financings. Lighten the load by using a tax refund to pay it down,” Hightower said.

“The improvements can make the home more attractive to potential buyers down the road and increase its value,” Hightower said.

“Bolster savings with a Roth IRA; investments are made with after-tax dollars, but the account’s growth and qualified withdrawals are tax-free,” Hightower said.

“Consider giving a child a head start with a college savings account,” Hightower said.

“Many experts now advise that individuals set aside enough cash in an emergency fund to cover nine months to a year of expenses,” Hightower said.

HENRY_FB2014_(32) 32 7/10/2014 2:55:41 AM

SPORTS AND RECREATION

HENRY_FB2014_(33) 33 7/10/2014 2:56:25 AM


SPORTS &RECREATION

HENRY COUNTY RECREATION CENTERSHenry County has

several recreation centers located in Hampton, Locust Grove, McDonough and Stockbridge. To find out more information about a specific center, call the recreation office at (770) 288-7300 or visit www.co.henry.ga.us/parksrecreat ion/RecreationCenters.shtml.

Fairview Recreation Center35 Austin RoadStockbridge, Ga. 30281

Heritage Park pavilions97 Lake Dow RoadMcDonough, Ga. 30252

Jason T. Harper Event Center95 Lake Dow RoadMcDonough, Ga. 30252

J.P. Moseley Recreation Center1041 Miller’s Mill Road

Stockbridge, Ga. 30281

Locust Grove Event Center280 Mose Brown DriveLocust Grove, Ga. 30248

Locust Grove Rec Center10 Cleveland St.Locust Grove, Ga. 30248

Nash Farm Park activity barn4361 Jonesboro RoadHampton, Ga. 30228

HENRY_FB2014_(34) 34 7/10/2014 3:01:41 AM

HENRY_FB2014_(35) 35 7/10/2014 3:03:58 AM

By Christine [email protected]

Summer has arrived and at Atlanta Motor Speedway, 1500 Tara Place in Hampton, that means Thursday Thunder and Friday Night Drags racing events are back.

The events, which run until Sept. 19, include street-style and grassroots racing on the speedway’s quarter-mile Thunder Ring.

Gates open at 6 p.m. with Thursday Thunder racing beginning at 7 p.m. and Friday Night Drags at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets range from $2 for children 5 to 11 up to $8 for adults.“Our Thursday Thunder racing events are an affordable activity

that the entire family can enjoy,” Summer Race Director Brandon Hutchison said. “For tickets that are cheaper than going to a matinee movie, kids and adults can enjoy competitive racing activities in the grand stands to make the event even more fun.”

Speedway President Ed Clark said while the sport is fun for families to watch, it is also a great opportunity for a younger generation who may be interested in pursuing racing.

“The reality is that about 60 drivers who’ve raced in Thursday Thunder’s legends cars have gone on to race in the touring division of NASCAR,” he said. “It’s a huge vote of confidence in what Legend car racing can do for aspiring drivers who have the opportunity to learn car control and how to race.”

Legends cars are five-eighths scale replicas of classic coupes and sedans of the 1930s that were modified into the affordable racing machines of NASCAR’s grassroots history.

During the Thursday Thunder events, anyone over 14 can test drive a Legends car around the Thunder ring for 15 laps for $75.

Clark said the events are part of many attendees’ summer traditions. “It’s great to see families coming out to have fun together and many times we see the same fans who come sit in their same, favorite seats week after week,” he said.

Each event will have a special theme.Information: www.atlantamotorspeedway.com

Staff / Christine FonvilleRacing driver Taylor Jorgensen, 17, gets ready to drive a Legends car at the Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Speedway rolls into summer

HENRY_FB2014_(36) 36 7/10/2014 3:06:20 AM

SHOOTOUT CHAMPS: Dutchtown wins 7-on-7 tourneyBy Maurice [email protected]

On a recent Thursday at War-ren Holder Park, all of the fields were occupied by football teams competing in the Southside Shootout 7-on-7 tournament.

But unlike the day before, a loss sent teams packing. After the passes started being lofted at 3 p.m., teams began departing and fittingly the last two stand-ing were Dutchtown and Stock-bridge.

With less than a minute left in the game, K’Lin Epps complet-ed the game-tying touchdown pass to Malik Barkley. Then to prevent overtime, Epps found Christian Palmer in the end zone, securing a 14-13 victory and starting the celebration.

“Our kids have been working hard all summer,” Dutchtown football coach Mark Myers said. “This is a dedication to them and my staff. This is just commitment from my players. They bought into the summer program, came out, worked hard and they wanted it. That is what I liked the most.”

To reach the title game, the Bulldogs beat Griffin and Stock-bridge knocked off Lovejoy.

“The defense really im-pressed me,” Myers said. “Even though I’ve been an offensive guy for most of my life, I know that defense wins championships and I really take pride in making sure my defense plays well.”

Last season, Myers was the offensive coordinator at Henry County and will make his head coaching debut at Dutchtown this season.

Locust Grove, Luella, Henry County, Eagle’s Landing, Spal-ding, Lithia Springs, Mt. Zion, Drew, Alcovy and Mundy’s Mill also participated in the seventh annual tournament.

“You can’t beat coming out here and competing,” Myers said.

“This is our first tournament of the summer and we just want-ed to make sure that guys came out and competed. We just want-ed to get better. This is something that we look back at on film and say ‘hey we weren’t very strong in this area’ but now we can go and correct it before the summer is out.”

Staff / Maurice DixonMark Myers, the new Dutchtown football coach, and the Bulldogs won the 2014 Southside Shootout 7-on-7 tour-nament

HENRY_FB2014_(37) 37 7/10/2014 3:11:19 AM


SPORTS &RECREATION

CHAMPS: ELCA track team has winning season

Special / Jeff HurndonFrom left, ELCA 4x100 relay team members T’aja Cameron, Alexis Ross, Taylor Aguillard and Sydney Spencer.

By Maurice [email protected]

The Eagle’s Landing Christian girls’ track team literally ran away with the Private Class A title in Albany.

Thanks to first-place finishes in the 100 and 200-meter dash-es, the triple jump and the 4x100 and 4x400 relays, the Lady Chargers compiled 75 points to capture their first track and field state championship in school history.

“I’m still on cloud nine,” ELCA girls’ track coach Scott Queen said. “It was fun. A great bunch of girls. I thought we had a chance, but everybody had to do what they were supposed to do and they not only did that but they did more.”

Individually, the bright spot for the Lady Chargers was freshman T’aja Cameron. The 14-year-old sprinter ran the 100 in 12.03 seconds and the 200 in 24.76 seconds. She also leaped more than 37 feet in the triple jump.

“She has bought into every-thing that we are doing from a practice standpoint,” Queen said. “She’s worked hard. God gave her some amazing ability but she has worked hard as well. If we can keep her healthy and keep training, there is no telling what else she can do.”

But Cameron wasn’t done

yet. She also ran with Sydney Spencer, Taylor Aguillard and senior Alexis Ross to capture gold in the 4x100 relay. Then with Aguillard, Parker Pinholster and Ansley Goode, Cameron earned another first-place medal in the 4x400 relay.

“You don’t have to be a great coach when you have athletes like we have,” Queen said.

In other field events, Abigail Rogers finished second in the shot put and senior McKenna Henderson captured fourth in the discus. “I couldn’t be any-more proud of McKenna Hen-derson,” Queen said. “She has competed for four years and hasn’t really gotten any acco-lades. I just wasn’t expecting her to finish fourth. Those types of things happened all day long. It just added to our state champi-onship.”

With most of the team return-ing and some younger additions, the Lady Chargers could be in a similar situation in a year.

“It’s always hard to stay up there but all we can do is keep working and hopefully there is some more success for a couple of years here,” Queen said.

HENRY_FB2014_(38) 38 7/10/2014 3:12:06 AM

SENIORLIVING

HENRY_FB2014_(39) 39 7/10/2014 1:09:39 PM

SENIOR LIVING


Henry County senior meal service celebrates 20 yearsFrom Staff Reports

The 20th Miles for Meals Walk, which provides senior citizens with hot meals and in-home services, was celebrated in May at the Jason T. Harper Event Center in Heritage Park, 101 Lake Dow Road, McDonough.

Proceeds went towards providing area senior citizens with hot meals and in-home services.

The walk is the single largest fundraiser organized by the Henry County Council on Aging to benefit Henry County senior services’ various programs.

Walkers of all ages were encouraged to come out for this long-standing community tradition.

Every dollar raised by the Miles for Meals Walk stays in Henry County to assist local senior citizens, with the funds helping to provide critical services, such as hot, nutritious meals through the Meals on Wheels p r o g r a m , nutri t ional supplements and in-home health services.

In addition to providing much-needed meals and services, the Meals on Wheels program offers one important side benefit: a way to ensure that these seniors are checked on regularly by a caring volunteer.

The one-mile route took participants on a leisurely walk through Heritage Park.

All walkers received a free T-shirt and meal ticket for lunch included with their $25 donation, as well as entry into a drawing for door prizes.

Groups and individuals who raised the most money were given special

recognition at the event. Each year, a T-shirt is

designed with a theme to honor or commemorate someone or something instrumental to senior services.

To celebrate and illustrate the 20th walk, members of the senior services staff were wearing the official T-shirts from the past two decades.

According to Diane Reed, senior services director, the walk is an important fundraiser for Henry County’s seniors, especially during lean economic times.

“With budget cuts we have lost some revenue stream, so this walk is even more important to help with that,” she said in a statement. “The walk only lasts a few hours, but the good it does lasts the whole year through.”

Ann Marie Quincey, county information and assistance specialist, said it is encouraging to see that many

participants are seniors or family

m e m b e r s w h o s e r e l a t i v e s have been a s s i s t e d

by senior services. “Many of our

walkers are seniors, or family members of seniors, and that really lets us see the impact of the services we provide and how important those services are to the community,” she said in a statement.

To add to the festivities, DJ J.T. played the latest tunes entertaining the crowd and Renee Yawn from Jazzercise warmed up participants.

Walkers also had a chance to choose from a variety of sweets from a bake sale.

Information: (770) 288-7010 or [email protected]

MOMENTOUS MILESTONE

Ann Marie Quincey,

Henry County information

and assistance specialist, and Diane

Reed, director of

county senior services, show the

T-shirt design for this year’s

Miles for Meals Walk.

nSpecial Photo

HENRY_FB2014_(40) 40 7/10/2014 3:24:15 AM


SENIOR LIVING

HENRY COUNTY SENIOR SERVICES

> Heritage Senior Center 1050 Florence McGarity Blvd. McDonough, Ga. 30252(770) 288-7001Lead Coordinator: Nita Kerr

> Hidden Valley Senior Center 600 Spraggins Memorial Pkwy. Stockbridge, Ga. 30281(770) 288-7002Lead Coordinator: Jimmie Batchelor

> Locust Grove Senior Center280 Mose Brown DriveLocust Grove, Ga. 30248(770) 288-7000

Lead Coordinator: Melissa Sloan

SENIOR COMMUNITIES ADVERTISING IN FACTBOOK > Governor’s Glen Memory and Assisted Living5000 Governors Drive Forest Park, Ga.(404) 362-0404

> The Palms at Lake Spivey Independent and Assisted Living8080 Summit Business Pkwy. Jonesboro, Ga. (770) 477-7207

SENIOR LIVING RESOURCES>

HENRY_FB2014_(41) 41 7/10/2014 3:26:37 AM


SENIOR LIVING

From Staff Reports

The Henry County Veterans Museum accepted a donation from the Georgia United Credit Union recently.

Members of the credit union presented a $5,000 check to Henry County Parks and Recreation Facility Coordinator Jim Joyce, runs the museum along with volunteers.

Several supporters were on hand to celebrate the donation, including county commissioners Gary Barham and Reid Bowman and parks and recreation Director Tim Coley, whose department maintains

the museum, located at Heritage Park in McDonough.

In appreciation, Joyce presented a plaque to Meg Norrell, credit union branch manager, and members of her staff for their contribution and continued support.

Norrell said the credit union’s mission includes ensuring education, family and community and that her organization is a staunch supporter of various community endeavors.

Bowman took the opportunity to thank Norrell and the credit union for their generosity.

“Henry County and the board of commissioners appreciate very much you guys stepping up to the plate,” he said.

“Because of what you’ve done and because of the work of these guys, our volunteers, it

makes this a place that we are proud of to bring our kids and our grandkids, and they love it, and I just wanted to say thank you.”

Joyce said he was extremely grateful for the donation to the museum.

“It’ s truly gratifying when local businesses recognize the fact that veterans and veterans’ affairs are so truly important, and proactively support them,” he said.

As the only employee, Joyce has come to rely on a small army of dedicated veterans who volunteer their time to make the museum a success.

They do everything from organizing the donations and creating and rotating displays, to refurbishing rooms and hosting visitors.

According to Joyce, all of the

items displayed in the museum have been generously donated, and they tell the tale of our military’s history, many with personal stories of individual soldiers, some who paid the ultimate price for freedom.

More importantly, the museum is a tribute to veterans for the sacrifices they made and serves as a history exhibit for the community and beyond, bridging generations.

The museum is located at 101 Lake Dow Road in McDonough.

The museum is free and open to the public, Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.

It is also located just a short distance from the Veterans Wall of Honor.

Information: (770) 288-7300

Henry County Veterans Museum receives generous donation

HENRY COUNTY APPRECIATES VETS

HENRY_FB2014_(42) 42 7/10/2014 3:28:44 AM

SENIOR LIVING


HENRY COUNTY APPRECIATES VETS

By Bill [email protected]

Vietnam veteran Jim Joyce, an 11-year resident of Hampton, said he likes to call Henry County a haven for heroes.

As the volunteer director of the Heritage Park Veterans Museum in McDonough since it opened on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2010, Joyce, 63, who served in Vietnam from January 1968 through February 1970, said he has never lived in an area that honors its current or veteran military personnel more than Henry County.

“As a veteran myself, I believe that Henry County military personnel, their families and veterans are fortunate to have the progressive leadership we have in our county and cities and their unwavering support for our military and our vets,” he said.

Joyce said he believes this support comes from many of those in county and city leadership positions who are veterans themselves, such as Henry County Chairman and Air Force veteran Tommy N. Smith.

This support, Joyce said, is evident throughout the year but especially on Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

“The mayors of all four of our cities, Stockbridge, McDonough, Locust Grove and Hampton, not only conduct ceremonies for veterans but they participate in those ceremonies we hold here at Heritage Park,” he said.

It is not only city and county government leaders who support veterans, but the communities do as well,

Joyce said.He said the most recent

evidence of such community support came this past Memorial Day when more than 700 attendees gathered for the ceremony at the Wall of Honor near the museum in Heritage Park.

In addition, Hampton officials lined the main thoroughfares of the city with white crosses on which were inscribed the names of former or deceased residents who have served their country in the military.

Henry County Parks and Recreation Director Tim Coley said, like his volunteers, Joyce is a critical element of completing the department’s mission of providing the best in county recreation and leisure opportunities.

“The museum is something we have wanted here and to think that most of the military equipment and other items in the museum are donated makes it even more impressive,” Coley said.

“The Heritage Park Veterans Museum is where our vets can come, gather and feel comfortable talking with other vets like Jim.”

The museum, Coley said, is Henry County’s tribute to its vets, “not just on special days like Memorial Day and Veterans Day, but 365 days a year.”

The support for Henry County veterans does not end at the county line.

Joyce said the fame of the Heritage Park Veterans Museum has not only spread throughout the Southeast as evidenced by the large number of residents from other states visiting, but has even gone international.

County honors veterans at Heritage Park year round

Staff / Katherine FryeHeritage Park Veterans Museum director and Vietnam veteran Jim Joyce displays the Huey UH-1H helicopter.

HENRY_FB2014_(43) 43 7/10/2014 3:31:32 AM


HENRY COUNTYuMedian age: 35.3uRace: White, 55 percent. Black, 36.9 percent. Hispanic or Latino, 5.8 percent. Asian, 2.9 percent. Other, 2.4 percent.uMedian Household Income: $49,604uSquare Mileage: 322.7 uPopulation in 2000: 119,341uPopulation in 2010: 203,922uLatest Population Estimate: 211,128

STOCKBRIDGEuMedian Age: 34.7uRace: White, 28.8 percent. Black, 55.7 percent. Hispanic or Latino, 9.5 percent. Asian, 7.6 percent. Other, 3.8 percent.uMedian Household Income: $55,783uSquare Mileage: 13.4uPopulation in 2010: 25,636uLatest Population Estimate: 27,265

MCDONOUGHuMedian Age: 31.8Race: White, 34.8 percent. Black, 58.2 percent. Hispanic or Latino, 6.1 percent. Asian, 1.8 percent. Other, 2.2 percent.uMedian Household Income: $48,303uSquare Mileage: 12.9uPopulation in 2010: 22,084uLatest Population Estimate: 22,834

HAMPTONuMedian age: 31.5Race: White, 52.7 percent. Black, 39 percent. Hispanic or Latino, 8.6 percent. Other, 4.9 percent. uMedian Household Income: $44,279uSquare Mileage: 4.3uPopulation in 2010: 6,987uLatest Population Estimate: 7,104

LOCUST GROVEuMedian age: 32.9Race: White, 55.7 percent. Black, 37.4 percent. Hispanic or Latino, 5.3 percent. Asian, 1.7 percent. Other, 2 percent.uMedian Household Income: $57, 143uSquare Mileage: 2.2uPopulation in 2010: 5,402uLatest Population Estimate: 5,648

Information taken from U.S. Census Bureau based on 2010 census

BY THE NUMBERSa look at county wide demographics

[

HENRY_FB2014_(44) 44 7/10/2014 3:36:23 AM

COMMUNITYHENRY_FB2014_(45) 45 7/10/2014 3:36:53 AM


COMMUNITY

50 B Malier Rd. • Hampton • 404-201-3345

WE SERVICE ALL MAKES AND MODELS

Dirt Bikes • Go Karts • MotorcyclesATVs • Side by Sides

Sales • Service • PartsAccessories • All BrandsParts in stock for off brand models!

HAMPTON Bobby McBrayer City Park10 Central Ave.Hampton, Ga. 30228

Nash Farm Park4361 Jonesboro RoadHampton, Ga. 30228

North Mount Carmel Park307 North Mount Carmel RoadHampton, Ga. 30228

R.W. & Mary Lou Coley Park79 West Main St.Hampton, Ga. 30228

LOCUST GROVE Warren Holder Park301 Club Dr.Locust Grove, Ga. 30248

MCDONOUGH Alexander ParkAtlanta St.McDonough, Ga. 30252

Avalon Park1045 Industrial Pkwy.McDonough, Ga. 30253

Big Springs Park64 Veterans Dr.McDonough, Ga. 30253

Franklin Rape Park20 S. Ola RoadMcDonough, Ga. 30252

Heritage Park101 Lake Dow RoadMcDonough, Ga. 30253

North Ola Park365 N. Ola Road

McDonough, Ga. 30252

Richard Craig Park125 South Cedar St.McDonough, Ga. 30253

Rufus L. Stewart Park300 Simpson St.McDonough, Ga. 30253

Sandy Ridge Park1200 Keys Ferry RoadMcDonough, Ga. 30252

Windy Hill ParkRonnie Stewart Dr.McDonough, Ga. 30253

STOCKBRIDGEClark Community Park111 Davis RoadStockbridge, Ga. 30281

Cochran Park305 E. Atlanta RoadStockbridge, Ga. 30281

Gardner Park

268 E. Atlanta RoadStockbridge, Ga. 30281

Hidden Valley Park100 Spraggins Memorial Pkwy.Stockbridge, Ga. 30294

J.P. Moseley Park1041 Miller’s Mill RoadStockbridge, Ga. 30281

Mickie D. Cochran Park301 Banks RoadStockbridge, Ga. 30281

Memorial Park106 Jennings WayStockbridge, Ga 30281

Panola Mountain State Park2600 Ga. Hwy. 155, SWStockbridge, Ga. 30281

Pates Creek Park1309 Jodeco RoadStockbridge, Ga. 30281

AREA PARKS

HENRY_FB2014_(46) 46 7/10/2014 3:38:34 AM

HENRY_FB2014_(47) 47 7/10/2014 3:40:08 AM

COMMUNITY


Taste of Henry offers treats and tourismBy Christine [email protected]

Food lovers in Henry County enjoyed samplings from their favorite local restaurants and explored new selections at the 13th annual Taste of Henry in April.

The event showcased more than 35 restaurants offering bite-size portions to let residents try a variety of different flavors ranging from appetizers and main courses to desserts.

A $20 wristband gave attendees access to a tented catering section in the Jason T. Harper Event Center in Heritage Park, 101 Lake Dow Road, McDonough.

“We have about 35 food vendors and restaurants signed up to participate,” said organizer Nan Jenkins.

All proceeds from the event benefited A Friend’s House, a nonprofit that helps abused and neglected children in the county.

Sponsors Henry Piedmont Healthcare and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta provided a children’s area with face painting, balloons and inflatables.

New to the 2014 event

was a tourism aspect which was incorporated in this year’s theme, The Best of Taste and Tourism.

“Right now we have 14 tourism vendors ready to give people a taste of what they offer,” county Director of Tourism Laura Luker said before the benefit. “These businesses include conference centers, hotels, parks, theater companies, retail centers and motor sport complexes and every booth will have some sort of interactive element to engage visitors.”

These booths will be set up in the plaza before entering the tasting area, so visitors were able to visit the booths before and during the event.

Jenkins said adding a new component to the event was “very exciting” and she hoped the event would showcase a “taste” of everything the county has to offer.

“There will be so much for everyone to see and great door prizes to be won,” she said before the event.

“Our residents will be getting to taste some great food and help out with a great cause.”

Staff / Katherine FryeFrom left, organizers Cheryl Young, Laura Luker and Nan Jenkins display a poster for the Taste of Henry food festival.

l OB’s BBQl Gezzo’s Surf & Grillel the Seasons Bistrol PJ’s Cafel KirbyG’s Diner & Pub

l Pasta Max Cafél Deep South Delil The Lunchboxl Pound It CakesBliss Bakeryl Berry Mango’s Yogurt Bar l Planet Frojo

FEATURED RESTAURANTS

HENRY_FB2014_(48) 48 7/10/2014 3:41:24 AM

1704 Hudson Bridge RoadStockbridge, GA 30281

In front of Kroger

Primo Grill • Spa Crest Spas • Thera Sauna • Hayward Equipment • Doughboy A/G PoolsBioGuard Chemicals • Brighter Day Saunas • Aqua Rite Salt Chlorinator

770-507-2258 • georgiapoolsupply.com

COMMUNITYCOCHRAN PUBLIC LIBRARY174 BURKE ST., STOCKBRIDGE(678) 432-5353, OPTION 7

FAIRVIEW PUBLIC LIBRARY 28 AUSTIN ROAD, STOCKBRIDGE(678) 432-5353, OPTION 3

FORTSON PUBLIC LIBRARY 61 MCDONOUGH ST., HAMPTON(770) 288-7233

LOCUST GROVE PUBLIC LIBRARY115 LG-GRIFFIN ROAD, LOCUST GROVE(678) 432-5353, OPTION 4

MCDONOUGH PUBLIC LIBRARY / ADMINISTRATION1001 FLORENCE MCGARITY BLVD, MCDONOUGH(678) 432-5353, OPTION 6

YOURLOCAL

LIBRARIES


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COMMUNITY


Annual tomato party helps feed the hungryBy Christine [email protected]

On June 21, residents enjoyed a Southern staple — tomato sandwiches — during the third annual Love & Home-Grown Tomatoes event hosted by the nonprofit Community Gardens of Henry County.

The party kicked off at 6 p.m. at Heritage Park, 101 Lake Dow Road in McDonough, and included live entertainment, a silent auction, vendors, a children’s play area and tons of delicious tomatoes.

Tickets for attendees 16 and older were $10; tickets for children under 15 were $5.

Included was a classic tomato sandwich dinner with potato chips and tea.

Glenda Garris, the nonprofit’s executive director, said the event started as a way to inform residents about what the organization does.

“Much of what we do is provide healthy, home-grown vegetables for those in need,” she said. “The Love & Tomatoes event is a great way to show the community where our gardens are located and host a fun fundraising event that the entire community can enjoy.”

Since its beginning, the event has grown and become the organization’s primary fundraiser.

“Last year we fed more than 300 guests and we’re expecting about 400 participants this year,” Garris said.

Gloria Hughes, the organization’s public relations chair, said this year’s goal was to raise about $5,000 — all of which helps gardeners help the community.

“People enjoy coming out to eat some fresh tomatoes, see our gardens and understand what we’re doing,” she said. “Our primary goal is to grow vegetables

for local food pantries because sometimes they don’t receive the healthiest donation options, so we feel that we spend a lot of time and energy helping the community in a somewhat unique way.”

Hughes, who said the event changes locations every year to familiarize attendees with the nonprofit’s six different gardens, said she was most excited about the silent auction at this year’s Heritage Park locale.

“The silent auction is a really fun part of the fundraiser and we have had about 50 donations and it’s a great way for other, local businesses to participate,” she said.

Tickets were sold at businesses like Moye’s Pharmacies and Wilson Bros. Nursery.

Hughes said the event also hosted vendors who had products or information related to gardening, healthy and active living, or environmental and agriculture sustainability.

Glenda Garris, executive director of Community Gardens of Henry County, checks on some tomatoes growing in the Heritage Garden.

nStaff / Katherine Frye

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COMMUNITYWELCOME TO HENRY COUNTYl Hampton Post Office998 Hwy. 19-41Hampton, Ga. 30228Phone: (770) 946-4669

l Locust Grove Post Office4050 Hwy. 42Locust Grove, Ga. 30248 Phone: (770) 898-6042

l McDonough Post Office100 Postmaster DriveMcDonough, Ga. 30253Phone: (678) 432-4319

l Stockbridge Post Office110 Walter WayStockbridge, Ga. 30281Phone: (770) 507-5483

UTILITIESCABLE TV:l Charter Communications1920 Brannan Road McDonough, Ga. 30253(800) 955-7766l Comcast(800) 266-2278

NATURAL GAS:l For a list of companies providing

natural gas, call the Georgia Public Service Commission at (404) 656-4501 or visit its website at www.psc.state.ga.us.

ELECTRICITY:l Georgia Power: (888) 660-5890l Central Georgia EMC: (770) 775-

7857l Snapping Shoals EMC: (770)

786-3484

TELEPHONE:l AT&T1420 Georgia 20McDonough, Ga.(770) 914-8864 Note: There are many other local telephone

companies. Check your local phone book for more listings. Contact AT&T to receive telephone books.

CITY WATERl Hampton17 East Main St. S.Hampton, Ga. 30228(770) 946-4306

l Locust Grove3644 Hwy. 42Locust Grove, Ga. 30248,(770) 957-5043

l McDonough136 Keys Ferry St.McDonough, Ga. 30253, (770) 957-3915

l Stockbridge4640 North Henry Blvd.Stockbridge, Ga. 30281(770) 389-7900

WATER:l Henry County Water Authority1695 Hwy. 20 WestMcDonough, Ga. 30253, (770) 957-6659


U.S. POST OFFICES

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COMMUNITYYEAR TO YEAR

Annual events in Henry County


JANUARYF Geranium Drop, McDonoughF First Find at the Farm, Stockbridge

FEBRUARYF Ladies’ Night Out, through December, McDonough MARCH

F Mardi Growl, Locust GroveF Yellow Pollen Street Festival, HamptonF Pictures with the Easter bunny, Locust GroveF Spring yard sale, Locust GroveF Easter egg hunt, Locust GroveF Flashlight Easter egg hunt, Hampton

APRILF Locust Grove DayF Strawberry picking, through May, McDonoughF Taste of Henry, McDonoughF Cities’ Week, StockbridgeF Cities’ Week, McDonoughF Spring Arts Festival, McDonoughF 5K Foamfest, HamptonF A Walk in the Past Festival and Car Show, HamptonF Atlanta Motorama, HamptonF Belles, Bulls and Buck$, McDonough

MAYF Peach Stand Road Race, Locust GroveF Memorial Day service, Heritage Park, McDonoughF Memorial Day commemoration, HamptonF Memorial Walk, StockbridgeF Relay for Life, McDonough

JUNEF Thursday Thunder and Friday Night Drags, HamptonF Farmers market, through October, Locust GroveF Peach and berry picking at Gardner Farm, Locust GroveF Archaeology Camp, HamptonF Girls’ Night in the Grove, Locust GroveF Friday farmers market, through August, Hampton

JULYF July Festival and Parade, HamptonF July 4th Fireworks, HamptonF Fourth of July Celebration, McDonoughF Firecracker 5K and 10K Road Race, HamptonF Noah’s Ark Adventure Safari Camp, Locust GroveF Cinema on the Square, McDonoughF Sounds of Summer, Stockbridge

AUGUSTF 150th anniversary of Kilpatrick’s Raid, HamptonF Model train exhibit, HamptonF Holler for the Haulers parade and block party, HamptonF NASCAR Sprint Cup Race, Hampton

SEPTEMBERF 150th Battle of Atlanta reenactment, HamptonF Veterans Day parade, StockbridgeF Southern Belle Farm, seasonal activities through November, McDonoughF 15th Street Pizza & Pub Brewfest, StockbridgeF Groovin’ in the Grove, Locust GroveF Bear Creek Festival, HamptonF Henry County Rodeo, HamptonF Georgia State Fair, Hampton

OCTOBERF Bridgefest, StockbridgeF Half-Marathon, StockbridgeF Henry County Fair, McDonoughF Pumpkin Patch and Fear the Woods, StockbridgeF Fall yard sale, Locust GroveF Family Nights, Locust GroveF Chili Cook-off, HamptonF Scarecrow Contest, McDonoughF Scarecrow Village, Locust GroveF Farm Heritage Day and Antiques Show, McDonoughF Haunting the Grove, Locust GroveF Trunk or Treat, Locust GroveF Brewgaloo Beer Festival, McDonoughF Undead Dash Fun Run, Hampton

NOVEMBERF Veterans Day Marker Display, HamptonF Veterans Day Service at Heritage Park, McDonoughF Gift of Lights, HamptonF Tree lighting, HamptonF Girls’ Night in the Grove, Locust GroveF Tanger Moonlight Madness Sale, Locust GroveF Christmas tours and Tree Farm, through December, StockbridgeF Old-Fashioned Christmas, McDonough

DECEMBERF Holiday Festival, StockbridgeF Christmas in the Grove, Locust GroveF Christmas with the Arts, McDonoughF Christmas at Home parade, HamptonF Jingle Jog, McDonoughF Atlanta Festival Ballet “Nutcracker,” McDonoughF Truett’s Grill New Year’s Eve Nugget Drop, McDonoughWHAT WILL YOU DO?

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2014-15 Henry Factbook

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