Thursday, August 30, 2018

J&M Pool Services named Small Business of the Year Overall Winner



J&M Pool Services of Newnan (above) was named the Overall Winner and the Employer Category Winner of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber’s 2018 Small Business of the Year Awards, which were presented by SouthTowne Motors and UBS Financial Services, Inc., on August 29, 2018 at The Newnan Centre. Other category winners this year included the Entrepreneur Category Winner, Dirt1x, and the Growth Category Winner, Monster Tree Service. Other finalists this year included Cleaning With a Cause; Fine Lines Art & Framing; Goldens on the Square; Knox Pest Control Inc.; Mid-Georgia Garage Doors, Inc.; Moto-Tec-it.com; and The Lighting Studio.

The 2018 Honorable Mention Award Winners were Alfa Insurance; Aquanaut Plumbing Services; At Home Assistants; Cycle City Powersports; Digital Collective; Popped! Gourmet Popcorn and Fun Treats; and Tim Stout & Associates.

Doug Bates of CMIT Solutions of Fayette/Coweta, last year's Overall Winner, served as emcee of the event.

For the first time, the Chamber this year decided to present a new award, the Legacy Award, designed to recognize a longtime Coweta County business that is known for its contributions to the local economy. The award this year was shared by Crain Oil and Lindsey's, Inc. Realtors. Other Legacy Award finalists included McKoon Funeral Home, Lee-King and Lee-Goodrum Pharmacies, and Murphey Florist.

The speaker for this year's lunch was Nick Carse of King of Pops, at left, a business that can be found all across the Southeast with its famous pushcarts and rainbow umbrellas, in “poptails” at bars and restaurants, in stadiums and local universities, and in freezers at stores in local neighborhoods.

Small Business is big business in Coweta County and nationwide. Nearly 97 percent of all businesses employ fewer than 100 employees, and these establishments account for 54 percent of the workforce. Small business accounts for two-thirds of job growth, and small businesses are key contributors to a growing and prosperous economy.


Thursday, August 23, 2018

Who will be named our 2018 Small Business of the Year?



Presented by SouthTowne Motors and UBS Financial Services, Inc., this year’s Small Business of the Year Awards are coming up on August 29, 2018 at The Newnan Centre, and we can hardly wait for the luncheon honoring this year's nominees! These awards pay tribute to the strength of Coweta’s small businesses and will recognize one of our community’s small businesses as the outstanding Small Business of the Year at the awards ceremony luncheon.

The Chamber’s Top 10 Finalists for the 2018 awards are Cleaning With a Cause, Newnan; Dirt1X, Sharpsburg; Fine Lines Art & Framing, Newnan; Goldens on the Square, Newnan; J&M Pool Services, LLC, Senoia; Knox Pest Control Inc., Newnan; Mid-Georgia Garage Doors, Inc., Newnan; Monster Tree Service, Newnan; Moto-Tec-it.com, Newnan; and The Lighting Studio, Senoia.

The 2018 Honorable Mention Award Winners are Alfa Insurance, Sharpsburg; Aquanaut Plumbing Services, Senoia; At Home Assistants, Newnan; Cycle City Powersports, Newnan; Digital Collective, Fayetteville; Popped! Gourmet Popcorn and Fun Treats, Newnan; and Tim Stout & Associates, Senoia.

New this year, the Small Business Awards will also include the presentation of the first Legacy Award, an award that will recognize a longtime Coweta County business that is known for its contributions to the local economy. These nominees include Lindsey’s Inc. Realtors, Murphey Florist, McKoon Funeral Home, Crain Oil Company and Lee-King Pharmacy.

The Small Business of the Year Award winners will be announced on August 29, 2018, during the Small Business of the Year Awards and Celebration, set for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Newnan Centre, 1515 Lower Fayetteville Road, Newnan. Tickets for the event are $35 for Chamber members and guests, $50 for non-members, and are available at the Newnan-Coweta Chamber or online at newnancowetachamber.org or by calling 770.253.2270.

Thursday, August 16, 2018

Thank you, Small Business of the Year sponsors!

It's less than two weeks till the 2018 Small Business of the Year Awards, and we're looking forward to having one of our best-ever awards ceremonies this year! We'll hear from entrepreneur Nick Carse of King of Pops, we'll present the 2018 Small Business of the Year winners, and we'll announce the recipient of our first-ever Legacy Award!

It takes a lot of support to make an event like this successful, so today, we'd like to give a nod to this year's sponsors, including our Presenting Sponsors, SouthTowne Motors and UBS Financial Services, Inc., as well as all the other terrific sponsors included here. Without their enthusiasm and support for the Small Business of the Year Awards, this event wouldn't be possible, so thank you, sponsors!


Thank you, Legacy Sponsors!


Thank you, Sustaining Sponsors!


Thank you, Supporting Sponsors!

Thank you, 123 Throwback Sign Sponsors!

The Newnan-Coweta Chamber will host our 2018 Small Business of the Year Awards on August 29, 2018 at The Newnan Centre, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tickets for the event are $35 for Chamber members and guests, $50 for non-members, and are available at the Newnan-Coweta Chamber or online at newnancowetachamber.org or by calling 770.253.2270.



Thursday, August 9, 2018

Legacy Award debuts at this year's SBOTY ceremony!

As a new feature of this year’s Small Business of the Year Awards coming up on August 29, 2018, the Newnan-Coweta Chamber will present its first Legacy Award, and the nominees are Crain Oil, Lindsey’s, McKoon Funeral Home and Lee-King. This award will recognize a longtime Coweta County business that is known for its contributions to the local economy.

Crain Oil Company, Inc. is a full service petroleum marketer located in Coweta County since 1954. This family owned and operated business is one that offers a full range of products and services related to the petroleum business. Crain Oil carries a full line of commercial and industrial lubricants as well as gasolines, low-sulfur and high-sulfur diesel fuels, and methanol. They also carry the Phillips 66 and Sunoco line of racing fuels. Crain Oil flies the Phillips 66 and Texaco brands at convenience stores located throughout Metro Atlanta and surrounding areas.

Lindsey’s Inc. Realtors has been in business in Newnan since 1948 and is currently celebrating its 70th anniversary. The company’s founder, Lindsey Barron, and sons, Frank and Chip, are all past presidents or chairmen of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber. Lindsey Barron is believed to have been a charter member, and Lindsey’s has been a member every year since the Chamber began. Also, Frank Barron was president when the Chamber raised the money and built its new building on Bullsboro Drive.

McKoon Funeral Home has its beginnings in1907, when J. U. McKoon opened a funeral home in Luthersville. In 1918, McKoon relocated the business to Newnan to be closer to the majority of his clients' families. The Depression caused Newnan's Cuttino family to lose their historic 1875 home, and in 1937, Mr. McKoon purchased the residence from Newnan Savings Bank and moved the funeral home to its current location. After McKoon's death, his son Robert B. McKoon became the second generation to own and operate the funeral home. He sold the funeral home to Terry Daviston in 1986, and today McKoon Funeral Home & Crematory is family owned and operated by the father-and-son team of Terry and John Daviston.

Lee-King and Lee-Goodrum Pharmacies are Newnan’s neighborhood pharmacy providers. Since 1907, they have provided the community with excellent care, discounted prescription medications, and a host of other services, all inspired by their love for the community they serve. As family owned and operated pharmacies, they are staffed by excellent pharmacists who call the Newnan area home, serving the people they call friends, family and neighbors. With three locations in Newnan, Lee-King and Lee-Goodrum provide convenient, personalized and exceptionally fast pharmacy services. Their mission is to offer top-of-the-line patient care in a hometown atmosphere.

The Newnan-Coweta Chamber will host its 2018 Small Business of the Year Awards, presented by SouthTowne Motors and UBS Financial Services, Inc., on August 29, 2018 at The Newnan Centre, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tickets for the event are $35 for Chamber members and guests, $50 for non-members, and are available at the Newnan-Coweta Chamber or online at newnancowetachamber.org or by calling 770.253.2270.

Thursday, August 2, 2018

Come hear the 'King of Pops' story at Aug. 29 SBOTY Awards

King of Pops can be found all across the Southeast with their famous pushcarts and rainbow umbrellas, in “poptails” at bars and restaurants, in stadiums and local universities, and in freezers at stores in local neighborhoods. And if you want to be inspired by a fascinating tale of entrepreneurial success, come hear the King of Pops story firsthand at our 2018 Small Business of the Year Awards on August 29!

King of Pops started with a single pushcart on an Atlanta street corner. Today, the company’s pushcarts and iconic rainbow umbrellas are recognized all across the South for their tasty ice pops made with quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations. Nick Carse, a co-founder of the company, will share the King of Pops success story when he comes to Newnan this month as keynote speaker for our 2018 Small Business of the Year Awards.

Presented by SouthTowne Motors and UBS Financial Services, Inc., this year’s Small Business of the Year Awards are set for August 29, 2018 at The Newnan Centre. These awards pay tribute to the strength of Coweta’s small businesses and will recognize one of our community’s small businesses as the outstanding Small Business of the Year at the awards ceremony luncheon.

The Small Business of the Year Award winners will be announced on August 29, 2018, during the Small Business of the Year Awards and Celebration, set for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Newnan Centre, 1515 Lower Fayetteville Road, Newnan. Tickets for the event are $35 for Chamber members and guests, $50 for non-members, and are available at the Newnan-Coweta Chamber or online at newnancowetachamber.org or by calling 770.253.2270.

The Chamber’s Top 10 Finalists for the 2018 awards are Cleaning With a Cause, Newnan; Dirt1X, Sharpsburg; Fine Lines Art & Framing, Newnan; Goldens on the Square, Newnan; J&M Pool Services, LLC, Senoia; Knox Pest Control Inc., Newnan; Mid-Georgia Garage Doors, Inc., Newnan;Monster Tree Service, Newnan; Moto-Tec-it.com, Newnan; and The Lighting Studio, Senoia.

The 2018 Honorable Mention Award Winners are Alfa Insurance, Sharpsburg; Aquanaut Plumbing Services, Senoia; At Home Assistants, Newnan; Cycle City Powersports, Newnan; Digital Collective, Fayetteville; Popped! Gourmet Popcorn and Fun Treats, Newnan; and Tim Stout & Associates, Senoia.

New this year, the Small Business Awards will also include the presentation of the first Legacy Award, an award that will recognize a longtime Coweta County business that is known for its contributions to the local economy.

Thursday, July 26, 2018

King of Pops co-founder to speak at Small Business of the Year Awards

Our Small Business of the Year sponsors, SouthTowne Motors and UBS Financial Services, Inc., and finalists get to sample some of the delicious King of Pops popsicles!

King of Pops started with a single pushcart on an Atlanta street corner. Today, the company’s pushcarts and iconic rainbow umbrellas are recognized all across the South for their tasty ice pops made with quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations. Nick Carse, a co-founder of the company, will share the King of Pops success story when he comes to Newnan this August as keynote speaker for the Newnan-Coweta Chamber’s 2018 Small Business of the Year Awards.

Presented by SouthTowne Motors and UBS Financial Services, Inc., this year’s Small Business of the Year Awards are set for August 29, 2018 at The Newnan Centre. These awards pay tribute to the strength of Coweta’s small businesses and will recognize one of our community’s small businesses as the outstanding Small Business of the Year at the awards ceremony luncheon.

King of Pops co-founder Nick Carse is a true renaissance man playing the part of entrepreneur. He could start his day in a difficult negotiation with a company 100 times the size of King of Pops, quickly rewire an outlet at headquarters, and then ride his bike home to work in his garden. He’s a tireless worker, has really long hair, and is the engine that makes sure things continue to progress.

According to the company, there was never really a plan for King of Pops. It started as a conversation that three brothers were having on an epic trip through Central America. Over the years, that conversation turned into a dream, and when the youngest of the three, Steven, was laid off from his corporate job during the Great Recession, that dream became a reality. A few months later, Steven’s brother Nick left his job as a lawyer to become the second employee. The brothers went from layoffs and courtrooms to making people happy. The sharp contrast helped them realize how precious each day really is.

King of Pops can be found all across the Southeast with their famous pushcarts and rainbow umbrellas, in “poptails” at bars and restaurants, in stadiums and local universities, and in freezers at stores in local neighborhoods.

The Small Business of the Year Award winners will be announced on August 29, 2018, during the Small Business of the Year Awards and Celebration, set for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Newnan Centre, 1515 Lower Fayetteville Road, Newnan. Tickets for the event are $35 for Chamber members and guests, $50 for non-members, and are available at the Newnan-Coweta Chamber or online at newnancowetachamber.orgor by calling 770.253.2270.

The Chamber’s Top 10 Finalists for the 2018 awards are Cleaning With a Cause, Newnan;Dirt1X, Sharpsburg; Fine Lines Art & Framing, Newnan; Goldens on the Square, Newnan; J&M Pool Services, LLC, Senoia; Knox Pest Control Inc., Newnan; Mid-Georgia Garage Doors, Inc., Newnan;Monster Tree Service, Newnan; Moto-Tec-it.com, Newnan; and The Lighting Studio, Senoia.

The 2018 Honorable Mention Award Winners are Alfa Insurance, Sharpsburg; Aquanaut Plumbing Services, Senoia; At Home Assistants, Newnan; Cycle City Powersports, Newnan; Digital Collective, Fayetteville; Popped! Gourmet Popcorn and Fun Treats, Newnan; and Tim Stout & Associates, Senoia.

New this year, the Small Business Awards will also include the presentation of the first Legacy Award, an award that will recognize a longtime Coweta County business that is known for its contributions to the local economy.





Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Small Business of the Year finalists announced!


Congratulations to this year's nominees for the 2018 Small Business of the Year Awards presented by SouthTowne Motors and UBS Financial Services, Inc.! They are:

Cleaning With a Cause, Newnan

This company’s goal is to not only be the best cleaning service a customer has ever used but also to help feed local residents who are hungry, a cause that is dear to them.

Dirt1X, Sharpsburg

Dirt1x stands for “do it right the first time,” and Ellie White-Stevens, Creative Director and Marketing Guru, has over sixteen years experience in advertising, sales, marketing and corporate communications.

Fine Lines Art & Framing, Newnan

Fine Lines Art & Framing is a specialty custom frame shop that specializes in using all archival and conservation materials and techniques. The staff is trained in the proper handling of any item or project, no matter how complex or detailed.

Goldens on the Square, Newnan

At Goldens on the Square Restaurant, the menu rotates daily so customers can enjoy an old favorite or find a new one. They also create catering menus based on a client’s needs.

J&M Pool Services, LLC, Senoia

While there are no certification requirements for pool servicers or builders in the state of Georgia, the staff at J&M Pools believes educating themselves and their employees is vital to the long-term success of their company, so J&M Pools carries a number of nationwide certifications.

Knox Pest Control Inc., Newnan

Knox Pest Control is one of the largest pest control companies in the southeast, serving Georgia, Alabama and North Florida, South Carolina, and Mississippi.

Mid-Georgia Garage Doors, Inc., Newnan

Mid-Georgia Garage Doors is a group of dependable professionals who have the experience to install any type of door at someone’s home—on time. They offer top brand-name garage doors from such companies as C.H.I., Amarr, Clopay and Wayne Dalton.

Monster Tree Service, Newnan

When people all over the U.S. need trees maintained or removed safely, they call Monster Tree Service, whose team is committed to healthy trees and satisfied customers. Professional arborists, they provide a service that benefits both the customers and the environment.

Moto-Tec-it.com, Newnan

Moto-Tec-it.com provides motorcycle wash and shine products specifically formulated for motorcycles. The product line includes waterless and conventional wash, detailing and specific solution products.

The Lighting Studio, Senoia

The phrase "Small Town Charm Meets Big City Design" is Susan Erwin's story in a nutshell. Susan was one of the first to receive the prestigious "Lighting Certified" designation from the National Council on Qualifications for the Lighting Professions.

Honorable Mentions

Alfa Insurance, Sharpsburg; Aquanaut Plumbing Services, Senoia; At Home Assistants, Newnan; Cycle City Powersports, Newnan; Digital Collective, Fayetteville; Popped! Gourmet Popcorn and Fun Treats, Newnan; and Tim Stout & Associates, Senoia.

Winners will be named on August 29, 2018, during ceremonies at The Newnan Centre. Click here to RSVP now!

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

Learn about the future of CEC at our June 27 State of Community Lunch


Central Educational Center in Newnan is without a doubt one of Coweta's great education success stories. Our well-known college and career academy was built on the unique model of connecting business and the community with education to ensure a skilled 21st century workforce. But do you know what's next for CEC?

Join Mark Whitlock, president and CEO of CEC, and an exciting panel of guest contributors as we discuss how Coweta's innovative culture is shaping the future of education in our community as well as throughout the state!

We'll also tell a bit about how the career academy model that is reinventing education throughout Georgia began 18 years ago right here in Coweta County.

The lunch will be June 27, 2018 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Newnan Country Club, 1356 Highway 29 North, Newnan. The cost for the lunch, which is sponsored by NuLink and WOW!, is $35 for Chamber Members and $50 for General Admission. For more information, email info@newnancowetachamber.org or call 770.253.2270.

Wednesday, June 6, 2018

Bike group hopes to bring more biking dollars to Coweta


You may have heard about Bike Coweta, the new group whose goals are to provide a safe and bicycle-friendly community to local citizens and to encourage cycling tourism to the area.

But what you may not know is exactly how much of an economic impact biking can have in a community! According to mtbatlanta.com, a single race weekend brought some $200,000 of local economic impact to Auburn, Alabama, and in Anniston, Alabama, the biking at Coldwater Mountain is estimated to have an annual economic impact of $4-6 million.

Our Chamber has been pleased to support the establishment of the new LINC trail here in Coweta, and we're excited about the opportunities for even more recreational offerings that will encourage a healthy lifestyle and attract visitors to Coweta County!

To learn more about Bike Coweta, click here.

Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Free Small Business Master Class is June 5 in Atlanta

On June 5, the Georgia Chamber is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to welcome small business leaders from across the state to the Small Business Master Class: Atlanta. This event, which runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, June 5 at Mason Fine Art and Events in Atlanta, is free to you as a member of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber.

The Atlanta event will be an exciting and important stop in the U.S. Chamber’s second annual nationwide tour to engage business owners and entrepreneurs with top experts to gain tools, strategies, and best practices to help companies compete successfully in today’s rapidly changing economy.

Participants will hear inspiring stories of success and perseverance from speakers who have achieved small business success. Both local and national experts will share insights on a multitude of topics from scaling a business to best practices in hiring and team building to marketing your brand and protecting your data networks.

You can receive complimentary registration by using the promo code "GeorgiaChamber," and you can register now by clicking here.

Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Leadership Coweta names 2018-2019 class members

The Newnan-Coweta Chamber has just announced the members of its 2018-2019 Leadership Coweta class! Those chosen for the program this year include Volita Almon, West Georgia Technical College; William Atkins, The Salvation Army; Justin Austin, Cancer Treatment Centers of America; Scott Berta, Tree Protection Supply; Michelle Bright, Paramount Hospitality; Hal Brodnax, Cancer Treatment Centers of America; Betsy Burnette, Newnan Utilities; Amanda Camp, Coweta CASA, Inc.; Andrew Copeland, Iron Planet; Jennifer Garcia, Newnan-Coweta Chamber; Kristina Hajzak, Fidelity Bank; Harlan Hammack, IB4E Coaching; Beth Headley, United Bank; Renee Horton, Renee Horton Agency, LLC; Jim Ivey, Streams Group; Kalea James, Fidelity Bank; LeCorey Johnson, Wide Open West (NuLink); Janiene Mallory, Kaiser Permanente; Matthew Markham, Georgia Department of Economic Development; Kim Melhouse, Tiernan & Patrylo; Jem Morris, Georgia Power Company; Anissa Patton, Fulton County Office of the Child Attorney; Dub Pearman, Senoia City Councilman Post 2; Ken Pinkerton, Grenzebach Corporation; Latha Ravi, The Flying Locksmiths; Jay Rice, Georgia Pain and Spine Care; J.J. Thomasson, 75 Jackson Properties; Jeff Treadwell, Buffalo Rock; Jason Walton, Foundation Christian Church; Trae Westmoreland, Coweta County Development Authority; and Monica Yeoman, West Georgia Technical College.
Amanda Fields and Joe Crain III are serving as this year’s Leadership Coweta co-chairs, and the theme for the 2018-2019 program is “Strengths Based Leadership.”

Through its unique 11-month program, Leadership Coweta prepares future community leaders by allowing them to engage in both the formal and informal exchange of ideas and experiences; enhance their personal leadership skills awareness and development; gain knowledge from an in-depth view of community issues; have access to opportunities for community involvement; understand more about the interdependencies between sectors of the local economy as well as the interrelationships of local issues; and receive knowledge on numerous subjects that prepare them for a more active leadership role in the community.

The application process for the program is governed by the Leadership Coweta Executive Team, which reviews all applications and determines finalists. Criteria considered during the process include demonstrated leadership abilities, community interest and involvement, desire to assume expanded leadership responsibility, and class representation of diverse backgrounds and experiences. The program year runs from September 2018 to May 2019.

For more information about Leadership Coweta, contact the Chamber at 770.253.2270 or email info@newnancowetachamber.org.

Wednesday, May 16, 2018

Learn more about the candidates—and voice your vote!



With Georgia's May 22 primary fast approaching, we want to make sure you have the information you need to learn about the candidates and their positions on issues that impact Coweta business.

Before the Candidate Forums we hosted at CEC in April, we distributed questionnaires to local nonpartisan Board of Education and contested primary candidates. To learn more about the candidates' responses, simply click on the links below. And be sure to voice your vote!








Finally, here are some days to keep on your calendar:


Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Come hear the CEC success story at our June 27 State of Community Lunch!

You're probably aware by now that the Central Educational Center is one of Coweta's great education success stories. Our well-known college and career academy was built on the unique model of connecting business and the community with education to ensure a skilled 21st century workforce. But do you know the story of how CEC got its start?

Come learn more about this highly successful partnership among business and industry at our next State of Community Lunch, where our speaker will be Mark Whitlock, president and CEO of Central Educational Center. The lunch will be June 27, 2018 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Newnan Country Club, 1356 Highway 29 North, Newnan.

The cost for the lunch, which is sponsored by NuLink and WOW!, is $35 for Chamber Members and $50 for General Admission. For more information, email info@newnancowetachamber.org or call 770.253.2270.

Wednesday, April 25, 2018

CEO of Okabashi Brands coming to our next Women of Prosperity Lunch

Ladies, let's talk shoes!

Sara Irvani is CEO of Okabashi Brands, one of the remaining 1 percent of American footwear manufacturers. Irvani champions sustainable footwear and closed-loop recycling through three brands—Okabashi, Oka B and the newly launched Third Oak. Oka B is fondly known as “Shoes that Love You.”

Irvani will be the featured speaker at our Business Women's Network's next Women of Prosperity Lunch on Wednesday, May 23, 2018. The lunch will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Newnan Country Club, 1356 Highway 29, Newnan.

Irvani started her career in venture capital and strategy consulting for Fortune 500 companies in New York City, San Francisco and Zurich. She speaks English, French, German and Farsi and is a "Global Shaper," part of a group of young leaders working with the World Economic Forum. Along the way, the 29-year-old executive earned a bachelor's degree with high distinction in philosophy from the University of Virginia, a Masters in Finance from University of Cambridge and an MBA from INSEAD.

The cost for the lunch, which is sponsored by Progressive Heating and Air Conditioning and Carrier, is $35 for Chamber Members and $50 for General Admission. For more information, email info@newnancowetachamber.org or call 770.253.2270.

Wednesday, April 18, 2018

Get to know the political candidates at our upcoming forums!



Do you know who you're voting for in Georgia's May 22 Primary Election? The primary will be here before you know it, and to help you make an informed decision before you vote, the Chamber has two candidate forums coming up where you can meet the candidates and find out where they stand on the issues. The forums are scheduled for candidates in contested primaries for party nomination for November’s General Election and for the nonpartisan Board of Education election in May. These forums include:

Monday, April 23, 2018, 6-8 p.m. — Coweta County Commission District 2 Primary — Republican;  Board of Education District 1 At-Large; Board of Education District 1; Board of Education District 3; Board of Education District 4.

Tuesday, April 24, 2018, 6-8 p.m. — Georgia House of Representatives District 71 Primary — Republican; Georgia House of Representatives District 72 Primary — Republican; U.S. Congress District 3 Primary — Democrat; U.S. Congress District 3 Primary — Republican.

The forum format will be a modified version of the League of Women Voters format. There will be a two-minute opening by each candidate followed by a series of questions vetted by the Chamber’s Voice of Business Committee to ensure fairness. The Chamber will not take a position for or against any candidate.

For more information or to submit a question for the candidates, call the Chamber at 770.253.2270 or email info@newnancowetachamber.org.

Wednesday, April 11, 2018

We salute our Coweta Manufacturing Companies!

In honor of Georgia Manufacturing Appreciation Week, our Chamber wants to say a huge "thank you" to the many great manufacturers who call Coweta County home! We remember how, just one year ago, we were celebrating with Grenzebach, above, as they were named Georgia Manufacturer of the Year in the category for companies with 150 employees or fewer!



Did you know that Grenzebach and some of our other great manufacturers are also among our Chamber's Enhanced Investors? These companies are among an elite group who have decided to make a significant investment in our Chamber, and they work to identify and drive solutions and innovations that will shape our economic progress and quality of life. These key stakeholders include Grenzebach, Yamaha, Kason, EGO, Cargill and Bonnell.

So to all of our great Coweta manufacturers, we salute you during this special week and thank you for all you do to help keep Coweta's economy growing and prosperous!


Friday, March 30, 2018

Pancakes & Politics legislative update is coming April 11!

At our recent State of Community lunch, we had the opportunity to hear about legislative happenings in Washington, DC. On April 11, we'll have the opportunity to learn about what's been happening on the legislative front closer to home! Come get the inside scoop on the most recent legislative session here in Georgia when our Chamber hosts its annual Pancakes and Politics Breakfast on Wednesday, April 11, 2018 from 7:45 to 9 a.m. at the Newnan Country Club, 1356 Highway 29 North in Newnan.

Members of the Coweta Delegation will participate in a moderated panel led by Chris Clark, president and CEO of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, who will also provide legislative insights from the session. Chris serves on the Board of Directors for the Council of State Chambers as the Secretary Treasurer, and sits on the boards of the Georgia Allies, the Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, and Georgia College and State University Board of Trustees. He is also a member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Council of 100, the U.S. Chamber's Board, and the Political Affairs Committee. Among other things, he is a member of the Board of Visitors for the University of Georgia. Chris has consistently been named one of Georgia Trend Magazine's 100 most influential Georgians and one of the Atlanta Business Chronicle's most influential Atlantans.

Members of the Coweta Delegation who have confirmed they will participate include Representative Josh Bonner, Senator Matt Brass, Representative Lynn Smith and Representative Bob Trammell.

This event is sponsored by AT&T. Cost is $20 for Chamber members and guests and $50 for general admission. Reservations are due by April 6. To RSVP now, click here.

Tuesday, March 27, 2018

Standard Office Systems to host April B-A-H!


Members always look forward to our monthly Business-After-Hours networking events, and the April B-A-H will be hosted by Standard Office Systems! This event is set for April 12, 2018 from 5:30-7pm at Art & Jakes, 510 Newnan Crossing Bypass.

To best showcase the business services offered by our friends at SOS, we're joining forces with fellow Chamber member Art & Jakes in providing a relaxed environment where you can rub elbows with other members but still enjoy plenty of elbow room. Please RSVP no later than Monday, April 9 or call 770.253.2270!

So why not enjoy this valuable and fun event? You can make some new contacts while enjoying great food and beverages and networking with your fellow Chamber members!


Friday, March 23, 2018

Just a few days left to submit Leadership Coweta applications!

Members of the most recent Leadership Coweta class enjoy their Class Day in Senoia.

The deadline is March 30 to apply for a position in the new Leadership Coweta class! Brochures and applications are available online for the 2018-2019 edition of our popular Leadership Coweta program, which develops leadership skills and knowledge through its programs and tours, comprised of lectures and dialogue sessions with guest speakers as well as audience interaction with leaders in all facets of the community. Participants are introduced to a variety of viewpoints that illustrate the array of economic, political, educational and social factors at work in Coweta County.

Please note that the Leadership Coweta program year requires a significant dedication of time and energy. Click here to see a brochure with a list of program dates and times and to learn more about Leadership Coweta. All applications must be submitted by Friday, March 30, 2018. Click here for an application.

For more information on Leadership Coweta or the selection process, contact Cynthia Bennett at 770.253.2270 or send an email to cynthia@newnancowetachamber.org.

Tuesday, March 20, 2018

$2,000 prize going to one lucky winner at this year's Golf Ball Drop!

We're gearing up to "Par-Tee Around the World" at our 33rd Annual Golf Classic, coming up at White Oak Golf Club on May 2, 2018! This year, only 100 tickets will be sold for our popular Walternative Golf Ball Drop sponsored by Toyota of Newnan, so act fast if you'd like to purchase some tickets! The grand prize is $2,000, and ten $100 prizes will be drawn as well. Tickets are $100 each.

Presenting sponsors for the Golf Classic are Piedmont Healthcare and ClubCorp, and this event has become the premier golf event of the year south of Atlanta. Held annually the first Wednesday in May, the Golf Classic attracts hundreds of players from this area and serves as one of the Chamber's most important non-dues revenue fundraising events. The Golf Classic also offers Expo-on-the-Tee exhibitor opportunities that allow Chamber members to showcase their products and services to the more than 400 attendees. Prizes will be awarded for players, teams and exhibitors.

Sponsorship opportunities are available, and you can call Susan at 770.253.2270 ASAP to find out how you can leverage a Golf Sponsorship to promote your brand. Also, spots are filling rapidly for Expo-on-the-Tee exhibitors. For more information, email susan@newnancowetachamber.org.

Friday, March 16, 2018

Georgia Chamber's Chris Clark to moderate April 11 Pancakes & Politics breakfast

Want to get the inside scoop on which legislation will most influence your business as a result of this year's legislative session? Find out when our Chamber hosts its annual Pancakes and Politics Breakfast on Wednesday, April 11, 2018 from 7:45 to 9 a.m. at the Newnan Country Club, 1356 Highway 29 North in Newnan.

Members of the Coweta Delegation will participate in a moderated panel led by Chris Clark, president and CEO of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, who will also provide legislative insights from the session. Chris serves on the Board of Directors for the Council of State Chambers as the Secretary Treasurer, and sits on the boards of the Georgia Allies, the Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, and Georgia College and State University Board of Trustees. He is also a member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Council of 100, the U.S. Chamber's Board, and the Political Affairs Committee. Among other things, he is a member of the Board of Visitors for the University of Georgia. Chris has consistently been named one of Georgia Trend Magazine's 100 most influential Georgians and one of the Atlanta Business Chronicle's most influential Atlantans.

Members of the Coweta Delegation who have confirmed they will participate include Senator Matt Brass, Representative Lynn Smith, Representative Josh Bonner and Representative Bob Trammell.

This event is sponsored by AT&T. Cost is $20 for Chamber members and guests and $50 for general admission. Reservations are due by April 6. To RSVP now, click here.

Tuesday, March 13, 2018

Plan to 'Par-Tee Around the World' on May 2!


It's going to be a "Par-Tee Around the World" when we host our 33rd Annual Golf Classic, coming up at White Oak Golf Club on May 2, 2018! Presenting sponsors for the Golf Classic are Piedmont Healthcare and ClubCorp, and this event has become the premier golf event of the year south of Atlanta.

Held annually on the first Wednesday in May, the Golf Classic attracts hundreds of players from this area and serves as one of the Chamber's most important non-dues revenue fundraising events. The Golf Classic also offers Expo-on-the-Tee exhibitor opportunities that allow Chamber members to showcase their products and services to the more than 400 attendees. Prizes will be awarded for players, teams and exhibitors.

Sponsorship opportunities are available, and you can call Susan at 770.253.2270 ASAP to find out how you can leverage a Golf Sponsorship to promote your brand. Also, spots are filling rapidly for Expo-on-the-Tee exhibitors. For more information, email susan@newnancowetachamber.org.

Friday, March 9, 2018

March 30 is the deadline to apply for Leadership Coweta!

Brochures and applications are now available online for the 2018-2019 edition of our popular Leadership Coweta program, and the application deadline is coming up at the end of this month! Leadership Coweta develops leadership skills and knowledge through its programs and tours, comprised of lectures and dialogue sessions with guest speakers as well as audience interaction with leaders in all facets of the community. Participants are introduced to a variety of viewpoints that illustrate the array of economic, political, educational and social factors at work in Coweta County.

Please note that the Leadership Coweta program year requires a significant dedication of time and energy. Click here to see a brochure with a list of program dates and times and to learn more about Leadership Coweta. All applications must be submitted by Friday, March 30, 2018. Click here for an application.

For more information on Leadership Coweta or the selection process, contact Cynthia Bennett at 770.253.2270 or send an email to cynthia@
newnancowetachamber.org.

Tuesday, March 6, 2018

Congressman Drew Ferguson coming to our March 28 State of Community Lunch!


If you've been attending our popular "State of Community" Lunch Series that launched in 2016, you won't want to miss our next installment on Wednesday, March 28, 2018, when Congressman Drew Ferguson gives us an update on national issues that affect our state and community! This lunch will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Newnan Country Club, 1356 Highway 29 North in Newnan.

Congressman Ferguson is a resident of West Point whose family roots in the West Georgia area are several generations deep. He attended the University of Georgia and gained early acceptance to the Medical College of Georgia. After graduating with a degree in dental medicine, he moved back to his hometown and established a successful family dental practice.

In 2008, Congressman Ferguson was elected mayor of West Point and was at the forefront of attracting and keeping jobs in his community. By lowering taxes, eliminating government barriers and reforming education, he led a community in economic ruin back to life. Today, a wide range of new businesses and industries call West Point and the surrounding area home. Led by KIA Motors, automotive suppliers and related businesses, the West Point business community has seen 16,000 new jobs created so far. Congressman Ferguson came to Washington to apply the lessons he learned revitalizing West Point to creating policies that once again make America the most competitive place to do business.

The State of Community Lunch on March 28 is sponsored by NuLink. Registration for the lunch is $35 for Chamber Members and their guests and $50 for General Admission. Reservations are due by Friday, March 23, and to register now through ChamberMaster, click here. For more information, call 770-253-2270 or email info@newnancowetachamber.org.

Sunday, March 4, 2018

Come learn about Golf Life Ladies on March 14 and 28!


In partnership with White Oak Golf Club and the Newnan-Coweta Chamber, Golf Life Ladies is gearing up for a new season of the women’s golf league. Golf Life Ladies is also known as "The Social Golf League," where women can learn and grow new relationships all while learning the game. League members get to choose from clinic taught by a golf pro or 9-hole play; after golf, networking takes place. Informational kickoff meetings for the new season are set for March 14 and 28 at 6 p.m. at White Oak Golf Club at 141 Clubview Drive in Newnan.

In addition to connecting many women to the game of golf, this ladies golf league also gives back to a local cause by wrapping up each season with an end-of-year tournament that benefits a local nonprofit. As a result, Golf Life Ladies has donated thousands of dollars to the local community. 

The Golf Life Ladies league is open to any ladies who would like to develop new local connections while learning the game of golf. Membership in the league includes access to a private golf club, along with affordable and fun organized golf opportunities. Because of its partnership with White Oak Golf Club, the league is not exclusive to members of the golf club. To join Golf Life Ladies, email Kim Guerra and Samantha Brazie at golflifeladies@gmail.com. For more information about Golf Life Ladies, visit https://www.facebook.com/GolfLifeUSAstuff.

Tuesday, February 27, 2018

Times-Herald publishes our 2017 Annual Report!


Have you seen our 2017 Annual Report? Print copies appear in the Wednesday, February 28 issue of The Newnan Times-Herald, and it will soon be available online as well!

Thanks to our friends at The Newnan Times-Herald, we were able to share with Chamber members as well as the community at large some of the many accomplishments our Chamber members have made over the past year, including signature events and the local businesses who helped make them possible; the winners of last year’s Small Business of the Year awards; the outstanding speakers and programs we offered our members; and some of the people and programs that are keeping Coweta on the map not just statewide but nationally as well.

Our board of directors, committee chairs, volunteers and staff are the reason we had such an outstanding year, and we are so proud to be able to share a taste of it through the publication of this Annual Report. We're grateful to The Newnan Times-Herald for another great job of sharing this important publication with the community. We also thank our publication advertisers for their support, as well as all of our Chamber members who help us make sure that Coweta remains known as “Prosperity’s Front Door.”

Friday, February 23, 2018

Top 6 Connect & Collaborate to kick off March 13

Last year's popular Six Figure Success Club Meetups were such a success, we are again partnering with Ignite Business Coaching on a second Meetup, the Top 6 Connect & Collaborate - Metro Atlanta Meetup! The purpose of this Meetup is to educate, support and connect entrepreneurs in the metro Atlanta area who are serious about growing profitable six-figure-plus businesses that serve the world and make it a better place. This group will meet monthly for a connect-and-collaborate luncheon at a local chamber of commerce or at other business partners, and the March 13 Meetup will be at the Newnan-Coweta Chamber.

Attendees will learn tips and techniques to expand their business network; meet local entrepreneurs; and have the opportunity to introduce their business services. Meetup members will be fellow entrepreneurs, and the organizer will be Maria Hall, Chief Empresaria of Ignite Business Coaching. These new meetings will have a luncheon format, with registration beginning at 11am and the program running from 11:30am to 1pm. The cost is $15 for Chamber members, $25 for non-members, and includes the cost of lunch and the program.

Upcoming topics are expected to include Creating an Elevator Pitch; Techniques to Enhance Your Messaging; Conquering Self-Promotion Fears; Talking About Your Niche; Identifying Your Niche; and Social Media.

Click here to register now. For more information, email info@newnancowetachamber.org or call 770.253.2270.

Tuesday, February 20, 2018

Business Women's Network to kick off new year on Feb. 28!

Our Business Women's Network is gearing up for a great year, and we'll be gathering for our first BWN Lunch of the year on Wednesday, February 28, 2018 from 11:15am to 1pm at the Newnan Country Club, 1356 Highway 29, Newnan.

"Future casting" will be the topic of the luncheon, which will feature Daniela Perry, Public Policy Coordinator for the Georgia Chamber. She will be presenting regional data and other information that will help guide business owners in strategic planning. You can expect to learn what the state will look like in 2030; which communities are expected to grow and shrink; and which industries are on the rise in Georgia.

Speaker Daniela Perry is responsible for managing the Chamber's policy committees as well as research and data analysis supporting the Georgia Chamber's initiatives. Prior to that, she served as a Field Representative for U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson, representing him in a 15-county region in Northeast Georgia and Metro Atlanta. She also served in state government as the Business and Operations Manager for the State Charter Schools Commission of Georgia.

The cost for the lunch, which is sponsored by Progressive Heating and Air Conditioning and Carrier, is $35 for Chamber Members and $50 for General Admission. Deadline to RSVP is this Friday, Feb. 23. To register now through ChamberMaster, click here.

Sunday, February 18, 2018

New Leadership Coweta class now accepting applications!

Did you know that applications are now available online for the 2018-2019 edition of our popular Leadership Coweta program? Leadership Coweta develops leadership skills and knowledge through its programs and tours, comprised of lectures and dialogue sessions with guest speakers as well as audience interaction with leaders in all facets of the community. Participants are introduced to a variety of viewpoints that illustrate the array of economic, political, educational and social factors at work in Coweta County.

Please note that the Leadership Coweta program year requires a significant dedication of time and energy. Click here to see a list of program dates and times and to learn more about Leadership Coweta. All applications must be submitted by Friday, March 30, 2018. Click here for an application.

For more information on Leadership Coweta or the selection process, contact Cynthia Bennett at 770.253.2270 or email cynthia@newnancowetachamber.org.

Tuesday, February 13, 2018

Our first BWN Lunch of 2018 is February 28!

It's time to kick off the year with our Business Women's Network! We'll be gathering for our first BWN Lunch of the year on Wednesday, February 28, 2018 from 11:15am to 1pm at the Newnan Country Club, 1356 Highway 29, Newnan. "Future casting" will be the topic of the luncheon, which will feature Daniela Perry, Public Policy Coordinator for the Georgia Chamber. She will be presenting regional data and other information that will help guide business owners in strategic planning for their own companies.

Perry is responsible for managing the Chamber's policy committees as well as research and data analysis supporting the Georgia Chamber's initiatives. Prior to that, she served as a Field Representative for U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson, representing him in a 15-county region in Northeast Georgia and Metro Atlanta. She also served in state government as the Business and Operations Manager for the State Charter Schools Commission of Georgia.

The cost for the lunch, which is sponsored by Progressive Heating and Air Conditioning and Carrier, is $35 for Chamber Members and $50 for General Admission. Deadline to RSVP is Feb. 23. To register now through ChamberMaster, click here.

Friday, February 9, 2018

“Nonprofit Notables” to speak at Tuesday's YPs in Philanthropy meeting


Three local notables from the nonprofit world in Coweta will lead a panel discussion at our quarterly meeting of the Young Professionals in Philanthropy, a joint project of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber and the Coweta Community Foundation.

The YPIPs will hear from Dr. Kay Crosby, founder of the Samaritan Clinic, who was recently named the 2018 Citizen of the Year; Lauren Odom, executive director of the Newnan/Coweta Boys & Girls Club, which in January was named the Coweta Community Foundation’s 2018 Nonprofit of the Year; and Dr. David Gregory, executive director of One Roof Ecumenical Alliance Outreach, which recently was named recipient of a $10,000 grant from 100 Women Who Care Coweta County. They will speak about the need for young professionals to become involved in nonprofits, the steps to become involved and potentially join the board of a nonprofit, and what nonprofits are looking for in board members.

This meeting will be Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at 6 p.m. at the Howard Warner Boys & Girls Club, 55 Savannah Street in Newnan. For more information, please call 770-253-2270 or email info@newnancowetachamber.org.