Chamber Says Thank You 2010 Community Expo Sponsors

The Fayette Chamber thanks Presenting Sponsor Delta Community Credit Union and the other 2010 Community Expo Sponsors for their support of the 20th annual Expo.

The community is invited to attend the Expo on Tuesday, September 14, 3-7 pm at New Hope Baptist Church, 551 New Hope Road, Fayetteville. Admission is free.

Pictured from left to right: (top row) Boris Besay, Piedmont Heart Institute; Jill Lego, Comcast Cable Communications; Kathy Boyer, Canongate Golf Clubs; Chuck Oakley, Media Production Group; (middle row) Huie Bray, Fayette Self Storage; Lakeisha Thomas, Piedmont Heart Institute; Boni Blackstone, 92.5 The Bear; Regina Steffens, Piedmont Heart Institute; Elaine Dingler, Fayette County Development Authority; (front) Brandt Herndon, Fayette County Development Authority; Melanie Myer, Delta Community Credit Union; Jim Mothorpe, Capital Investment Companies. Other sponsors not represented in photo: diWeb Management; Fayette County News; Humana; ServPro of Fayette/South Fulton.

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Fayette Chamber Launches New Logo, Tagline, Website and Kicks Off “Total Resource Campaign” to Connect Fayette Business and Community!

Fayette County Chamber 2010 Chairman of the Board with Vice Chairmen of the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce Total Resource Campaign.  Pictured (l-r) are Mark Gray, Irene Edwards, Jim Fulton, Pam Young and Joe Domaleski


Virginia Gibbs, president of the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce, announced August 11 the formal unveiling and launch of the Chamber’s new logoobrand identity, tagline, website, and Total Resource Campaign (TRC)—all designed to forge stronger ties between Fayette County businesses and the community in the months and years ahead.

“Our Board of Directors and staff undertook the important process of updating our logo and brand identity beginning early this year,” said Gibbs at a special luncheon held Wednesday, August 11 at Whitewater Country Club. “With the help and expertise of McRae Communications, we held intensive meetings with a variety of stakeholders, including small and large businesses, community organizations, young professionals, and others, to discern our number one key value as an organization.”

The outcome of that intense process is an attractive new logo and compelling tagline, “Where Business and Community Connect.” This new branding was officially presented during the Total Resource Campaign kickoff luncheon, with the general Chamber membership and the public able to preview the new branding later that day via the Fayette County Chamber’s new website, www.FayetteChamber.org.


“We decided to launch the new brand simultaneously with the kickoff of our TRC membership and sponsorship drive,” said Gibbs, “because both efforts are indeed all about connecting—connecting Fayette County people, businesses, and community through the Fayette Chamber of Commerce.”

The Chamber’s new website enhances these “connections” as a comprehensive site bringing together in one place all the resources available to the Chamber’s key constituents, including Chamber members, all businesses serving Fayette County, all citizens of the community, as well as visitors to our area.

“The website is designed to be a simple, engaging, and easy to navigate portal offering many easy to find tools and resources for all Fayette citizens,” Gibbs explained. “Our goal is to connect business and community in Fayette County in a transparent, effective, and highly-useable way so that all may find great benefit in these exciting and dramatic new additions to the Chamber’s offerings.”

Total Resource Campaign

The Fayette Chamber of Commerce’s first Total Resource Campaign was kicked off at the Whitewater luncheon. This effort will provide leadership and financial resources to equip the Chamber for the future, as it continues its renewed focus to connect business and community.

The TRC is an all-volunteer effort to gain new members, generate program and event sponsorships, offer advertising opportunities in Chamber publications, and raise awareness of the Fayette Chamber throughout the area. Funds received during the August to October campaign will be used to finance both new and existing Chamber programs.

Darrell Cutts, Piedmont Fayette Hospital, will serve as chairman of the Total Resource Campaign. Campaign vice-chairs are Irene Edwards, Bank of North Georgia, Jim Fulton, Coldwell Banker Bullard Realty, Mark Gray, Mark Gray State Farm Insurance, and Pam Young, Southern Conservation Trust.

During the campaign, volunteers will introduce Fayette businesses to the value of membership in the Chamber, and will urge current members to utilize the multiple benefits their membership provides, helping them to grow their business, boost their bottom line and connect with the community.

Fayette Chamber Board Chairman, Joe Domaleski, spoke at an earlier meeting of volunteers, recounting, “The Chamber meant everything to me when I moved here and started into business. Membership was a significant, even essential, key to my success. With the Chamber’s new logo, tagline, website, and Total Resource Campaign, we can ensure that Chamber programs for members and the community are not only sustained, but expanded to encompass all aspects of business development, community improvement, and member services of the high quality for which the Fayette Chamber of Commerce is recognized.”

At the Total Resource Campaign Kickoff Luncheon, Fayette County Chamber of Commerce honored nine Fayette community leaders and visionaries who have dedicated their time and effort tot he Chamber over the years.  Shown (l-r) are Virginia Gibbs, Darrell Cutts, Jack Smith, Carolyn Cary, Ed Travis, Shelby Travis, Hollis Harris, Marion Wells, Jim Webb, Ron Duffey, Joe Domaleski and Joel Cowan

A Continuation of More Than Forty Years of Success

In 2007, the Fayette Chamber celebrated its Fortieth Anniversary. Today, it is around 700 members strong. Chamber members represent a wide spectrum of dynamic businesses, ranging from entrepreneurs and small home-based businesses to large, international corporations.

According to one long time member, Pam Young of the Southern Conservation Trust, “Our Chamber is a strong, vibrant network of businesses and organizations working together to promote economic prosperity and strengthen our community. The new tagline of ‘Where Business and Community Connect’ says it all. Through the Chamber important connections are made that provide the framework for our community to grow and prosper.”

“The Chamber has certainly provided tools and resources to help our business connect and grow,” said Bob Reeves of Accounting Resources after the TRC kickoff luncheon. “Being a member is essential, as it helps Fayette create new jobs, improve economic opportunities, and leverage our member’s talents and resources to make a difference in our home community.”

Focused on the future, business growth, leadership development, entrepreneurship, and community enhancement, the Fayette Chamber of Commerce is now poised, with its new logo, tagline, website, and Total Resource Campaign to bring together leadership from business, government, non-profits, and education to address the needs and issues of Fayette County now and in the near and long-term future.
Anyone interested in further information is welcome to contact the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce.—





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Chamber Gears Up for 2010 Expo

The Fayette Chamber is anticipating another great year at the 20th annual Community Expo on Tuesday, September 14, 2010 at New Hope Baptist Church, 551 New Hope Road in Fayetteville. The theme of this year’s Expo, Building Business, Building Community, parallels the chamber’s goal to maintain and enhance our community’s quality of life by supporting the local business community.

Businesses interested in exhibiting at the Expo can register now at www.FayetteChamber.org. Being an Expo exhibitor is a low-cost way for businesses to reach a large cross-section of the community. Last year’s Expo drew over 1500 visitors who came to see what products and services were available in Fayette County. Early birds can save $50 by registering before July 16th. For more information, contact the chamber at 770.461.9983 or visit the website.

The Expo has something for everyone. Whether your interest is in B2B networking or reaching out to consumers, the Expo provides an avenue for making important connections to help businesses gain exposure. It’s a fun, lively environment where entire families can enjoy strolling the aisles, sampling tasty treats, registering for great drawing prizes and discovering the great products and services that can be found right here in our own back yard!

Special features this year include the Biz Cafe’ that will provide free coffee, referrals for exhibitors and resources to help small businesses; a young entrepreneurs’ competition, a youth art show and a Wii competition. Prizes will also be awarded to the Best Booth and the winner of the Platinum Plate Award.

The Expo is part of the Fayette Chamber’s Find it in Fayette!R campaign to encourage consumers to support local businesses.

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Chamber Hosts Health Care Reform Briefing

The Fayette Chamber of Commerce will host Beyond the Politics: The Who, What, When & How of Health Care Reform on Friday, June 11, 2010, 8 a.m. at the Chamber. The speaker will be Dr. Patricia Ketsche from Georgia State University Robinson College of Business. Dr. Ketsche teaches graduate courses in Health Policy and Ethics, Introduction to the Healthcare System, and Healthcare Financial Management and Planning. The Briefing will be a non-partisan, factual analysis of the new Health Care Reform law including: an overview of major provisions with a timeline for each (Public Program Changes, Private Market Changes, Health Care Quality Initiatives, Initiatives to Improve Health Status, and Financing); a detailed look at the changes that affect the private market; and how Georgians currently obtain health insurance and the best estimates of how Georgia’s population would be covered if Reform is fully implemented. The event is free and open to the public. Registration is required. The Chamber is located in the Old Courthouse at 200 Courthouse Square in Fayetteville. To register, visit www.FayetteChamber.org or call the Chamber at 770.461.9983.

Dr. Ketsche is part of a team of Georgia State University faculty and staff aiming to break down the complexities of the nation’s newly passed health reform law in a series of policy briefs. The team has extensive experience in many areas of health including economics, insurance, law, financing, public and private coverage, long-term care, public health and more. To access the briefs, visit www.FayetteChamber.org.

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11th Annual Partners in Education Recognition Breakfast

The Fayette County Chamber of Commerce will recognize the 2010 Outstanding Business Partners of the Year at their annual Partners in Education Recognition Breakfast on Friday, May 14, 2010, 7:30 am at New Hope Baptist Church in Fayetteville.

This year’s program will include guest speaker Kathy Cox, Georgia’s State Superintendent of Schools. Under Superintendent Cox’s leadership, Georgia has seen unprecedented gains in student achievement. A special recognition will be given in honor of retiring Fayette County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. John DeCotis, plus the annual awards presentation for the 2010 Outstanding Partners of the year. This year’s nominees include; BB&T, Fayetteville; Fellowship of Love Church; Grace Evangelical Church; Huntington Learning Center; Liberty Mutual Insurance, Peachtree City; Lisbon Baptist Church; Mathnasium, Peachtree City, The Rotary Club of Peachtree City; Senoia Animal Hospital; Walmart, Peachtree City and Warner, Hooper, and Ramsey Law Firm. New this year will be an award given to a Fayette County School recognized for its strong relationships with its business partners. The school nominees are Cleveland Elementary; Huddleston Elementary; J.C. Booth Middle School; Kedron Elementary; McIntosh High School; Peachtree City Elementary; Peeples Elementary; and Starr’s Mill High School.

The community is cordially invited to attend the breakfast. The cost is $10.00 per person. Pre-registration is required by Wednesday, May 11th. You may register online through the Chamber’s event calendar at www.FayetteChamber.org or contact the Chamber at (770) 461-9983.

Sponsors for this year’s breakfast are Delta Community Credit Union, Piedmont Fayette Hospital, and The Southern Federal Credit Union. Additional support is provided by Huntington Learning Center, Progressive Tutoring of America, Club Z! In-Home Tutoring Services, and Primrose School of Peachtree City.

The Partners in Education program is a joint effort of the Chamber and the Fayette County Board of Education that provides an avenue for businesses to form partnerships with public schools and educational programs in Fayette County. Business “Partners” work with the school system to prepare the workforce of tomorrow by providing enhanced educational opportunities for students. To learn more about getting involved with the Partners in Education program, contact Joyce Gaglione at the Fayette Chamber (770) 461.9983 or go to www.FayetteChamber.org/PartnersinEducation.

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11th Annual Partners in Education Recognition Breakfast May 14

The Fayette County Chamber of Commerce will recognize the 2010 Outstanding Business Partners of the Year at their annual Partners in Education Recognition Breakfast on Friday, May 14, 2010, 7:30 am at New Hope Baptist Church in Fayetteville.

This year’s program will include; guest speaker Kathy Cox, Georgia’s State Superintendent of Schools. Under Superintendent Cox’s leadership, Georgia has seen unprecedented gains in student achievement. A special recognition will be given in honor of retiring Fayette County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. John DeCotis, plus the annual awards presentation for the 2010 Outstanding Partners of the year. New this year will be an award given to a Fayette County School recognized for its strong relationships with its business partners.

The community is cordially invited to attend the breakfast. The cost is $10.00 per person. Pre-registration required by Wednesday, May 11th. You may register online through the Chamber’s event calendar at www.FayetteChamber.org or contact the Chamber at (770) 461-9983 for payment options.

Sponsors for this year’s breakfast are Delta Community Credit Union, Piedmont Fayette Hospital, and The Southern Federal Credit Union. Additional support is provided by Huntington Learning Center, Progressive Tutoring of America, Club Z! In-Home Tutoring Services, and Primrose School of Peachtree City.

The Partners in Education program is a joint effort of the Chamber and the Fayette County Board of Education that provides an avenue for businesses to form partnerships with public schools and educational programs in Fayette County. Business “Partners” work with the school system to prepare the workforce of tomorrow by providing enhanced educational opportunities for students. To learn more about getting involved with the Partners in Education program, contact Joyce Gaglione at the Fayette Chamber (770) 461.9983 or go to www.FayetteChamber.org/PartnersinEducation.

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Chamber Luncheon Offers Sales Strategies for Small Businesses

] The Fayette Chamber’s monthly B2B Luncheons offer free learning sessions to help small business members improve their business practices and boost their bottom line. The April luncheon featured Rob Benson of First Steps Training and Development who gave sales strategies to help businesses capture opportunities that are often lost without a good process. He described the current sales climate and offered some ideas for overcoming hurdles that sales people face as they compete for decision makers’ time.

Other recent topics for B2B lunches have include low cost marketing, surviving in a tough economy, and building business through social networking.

If you are interested in participating in monthly B2B lunches or want to learn more about Chamber membership, contact the Fayette Chamber at 770.461.9983.

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Chamber Brings Washington Here

Pictured (l-r):   Virginia Gibbs, Chamber President; Bob Reeves, Government Affairs Committee; Jack Smith, County Commission Chair; Congressman Lynn Westmoreland; Scott Hollowell, Government Affairs Committee

The Fayette Chamber of Commerce is committed to providing the community with up close and personal updates from Washington by hosting a series of briefings by our congressional representatives. Last week, U.S. Congressman Lynn Westmoreland spoke to a group of over 100 citizens interested in how changes in Washington will affect their businesses. Represented in the audience were financial institutions, utility companies, small businesses, nonprofits as well as private citizens. The Congressman spoke on a range of topics and then opened the floor for questions for an equal amount of time.

One of the key issues addressed by the Congressman was the need to have a better connection between the legislative process and the bureaus and agencies that administer the legislation. Currently, when legislation is enacted, the laws are interpreted by various agencies that create rules and regulations that are not reviewed by the legislators. This can leave room for a misinterpretation of the original intent of the legislation and cause negative impact that was not intended. Congressman Westmoreland urged citizens to pay close attention to what’s going on in Washington and stay involved in the process. In addition to domestic policies, he highlighted the serious nature of many foreign policy issues and stressed the importance of remaining diligent, keeping America strong, and supporting our troups.

There were a variety of questions from the audience on topics including the new healthcare legislation, immigration, Cap and Trade, Card Check and the Fair Tax. Many of these issues would have major implications for the business community and the economy. The Congressman stated that he believes the majority party is weighing the outcome of the November elections in deciding how many of these issues to push ahead now. In response to one concerned citizen’s question about how to pray for him, the Congressman replied, “Pray for wisdom and discernment.”

The Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee is in the process of planning another briefing from Washington in August with one of our U.S. Senators. Chamber members interested in getting involved with local, state and national legislative issues are encouraged to be part of this dynamic committee. For more information, contact the Chamber office at 770.461.9983.

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Register for Prizes and Support Fayette Businesses!

The Fayette Chamber is encouraging holiday shoppers to buy local with their Find it in Fayette! Holiday Campaign. At www.FinditinFayette.org, visitors can find places to shop, local holiday events, hot deals, and register for great drawing prizes.

Supporting Fayette County businesses strengthens our local economy in multiple ways. Sales tax dollars provide funding for local resources and buying local helps bolster the Fayette job market and supports local business owners and their families. According to the 3/50 Project, for every $100 spent in locally owned independent stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll and other expenditures. Non-profit causes also benefit because successful, community-minded businesses are more likely to support local charities.

The www.FinditinFayette.org website is an ongoing effort by the Chamber to connect the community with local businesses and to help sustain the excellent quality of life we enjoy here in Fayette. For more information on how the Chamber helps local businesses, visit www.FayetteChamber.org or call 770.461.9983.

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Fayette County's New Illustrated History Book

The Fayette County Chamber is offering a new illustrated history of Fayette County for a limited time at an introductory price of $25. The beautiful new book, Historic Fayette County, is authored by Fayette’s official county historian, Carolyn Cary, who has captured Fayette County’s history and heritage from its creation in 1821. Read about the first inhabitants of Fayette, the story of the burning courthouse, how Fayette fared in the war between the states, stories of old communities, and much more! The book is filled with photographs from the past to the present, with a painting of the old courthouse on the cover by established artist and Fayette resident, Vicki Turner.

The community is invited to join Carolyn Cary and Vicki Turner at book signings on Saturday, October 3, 2-4 pm at the Fayette County Public Library, 1821 Heritage Park Way or Sunday, October 18, 2:30-4 pm at the Fayette County Historical Society, 195 Lee Street, Fayetteville. Refreshments will be served. For more information, visit www.FayetteChamber.org or call the Chamber at 770.461.9983.

Books can be purchased at the book signings or at the Chamber office at 200 Courthouse Square, Fayetteville.

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Coming Soon! Find it in Fayette! Community Expo

Food, fun and fabulous exhibitors are what you’ll find at the Fayette Chamber’s Find it in Fayette! Community Expo on Tuesday, September 15, 3-7 pm at New Hope Baptist Church in Fayetteville. Admission is free!

The focus is Health, Wellness and GoGreen, and there will be plenty of interactive exhibits to help visitors get moving toward a healthier lifestyle. A variety of health screenings will be available including blood pressure, oral cancer, blood glucose and more. The Medicare Diabetes Screening Project will be represented with information on diabetes awareness. LifeSouth’s Bloodmobile will also be available and the Braelinn Kroger will be offering flu shots for $25.

Interactive exhibits will include Dixieland’s Virtual Roller Coaster, Georgia Power’s Storm Center and Smart Meter, and the TCIS-The Complete Insurance Source Mobile Unit. Car enthusiasts will enjoy seeing the new Tesla Roadster, an energy-efficient electric car provided by Georgia Power. With food samples, interactive exhibits, and lots of prizes and give-aways, there will be something for everyone at the Expo!

Visitors will enjoy strolling the aisles visiting over 100 exhibitors and sampling great food from a variety of local restaurants and caterers. Food exhibitors providing free samples include: Affordable Catering; Contemporary Catering, Mangarelli’s Pizza; Panda Express; Shane’s Rib Shack; Something Delightful Bakery Café; The Cheesecake Boutique; and Wyndham Peachtree Conference Center. Chick-fil-A Towne Center will be at the Expo selling sandwiches for donations to benefit the Joseph Sams School.

Mark your calendar now so you won’t miss this great community event! New Hope Baptist Church is located at 551 New Hope Road in Fayetteville. For more information, visit www.FayetteChamber.org or call the Chamber at 770.461.9983.

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Fayette County Partners in Education to host August 28th Workshop at the Chamber

Partners in Education (PIE), is a joint program of the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce and the Fayette County Board of Education. The mission of PIE is to establish and support partnerships to enrich and extend the education opportunities for Fayette County students.

The Partners in Education Committee has scheduled an information workshop for school contacts; Principals, Administrators, and PTO representatives to learn more about the new revisions of the (PIE) program. It will introduce the new handbook as a guide and instructions on how to complete the Community Partner commitment form with a Community Business partner interested in supporting their specific school. Completing the commitment form together provides a clear understanding of the benefits between both parties.

School Representatives are encouraged to attend the Partners in Education Workshop on Friday, August 28 at 8:00 AM at the Fayette Chamber, 200 Old Courthouse Square, Fayetteville, GA. This hour of your time will be a valuable investment. Contact the Chamber at (770) 461-9983 or Ruth West at the LEC at (770) 460-3990 ext. 470 to RSVP.

The Business Community Partners should watch for notifications regarding the new Partners in Education Program updates and begin contacting their selected partner schools to set-up a meeting to complete the new 2009-2010 commitment form together.

If you have any questions regarding the new Partners in Education program or handbook revisions, contact Joyce Gaglione at the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce at (770) 461-9983 or go to the Chamber website at www.FayetteChamber.org and click Partners in Education.

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Dominique Wilkins Scores Big for Diabetes in Fayette County

/PRNewswire/ -- Dominique Wilkins, NBA Hall-of-Famer and advocate for healthier living, visited Towne Club today to create awareness of the fact that seniors at risk for diabetes can get a free diabetes screening test in their health care provider's office. This is the core message of the Medicare Diabetes Screening Project (MDSP), a community-based effort that has been active in Georgia since 2007 and is co-chaired nationally by the American Diabetes Association, the Healthcare Leadership Council, and Novo Nordisk, and is supported by more than 20 organizations representing the interests of seniors and health care providers.

Screening seniors for diabetes is urgently needed. According to a study in the February 2009 issue of Diabetes Care, 32% of adults ages 65 and older have diabetes. What's more, almost half (46%) of those seniors with diabetes don't know they have it - they have not been diagnosed. In addition to those with diabetes, another 40% of adults ages 65 and older have pre-diabetes, putting them at very high risk of developing diabetes and heart disease, and it is likely that most of them are unaware of their status.

"Diabetes has touched my family multiple times," said Mr. Wilkins, "and we've seen first-hand the devastation it can cause. That's why I'm proud to be here today, to encourage seniors to get the ball rolling by asking their health care providers about getting screened for diabetes." Mr. Wilkins reminded those seniors in attendance that if they get screened for diabetes and work with their health care providers, they can take steps to either prevent or manage the disease. Featured at today's event at Towne Club was Sen. Ronnie Chance (R - District 16), Senate Finance Chairman and a member of Georgia's Workforce Investment Board. "Everyone has a role to play in the fight against diabetes," said Sen. Chance. "That's why I am delighted to see the business, health and medical and senior-serving communities all coming together to improve the health of seniors in Fayette County."

The day started at the Raising Star Middle School where Dominique Wilkins helped "tip off" registration for the Peachtree City Youth Basketball Association and along with Senator Chance discussed the importance of children forming lifelong healthy habits to prevent diabetes and heart disease.

The diabetes awareness event at Towne Club is one part of a larger day of activities to launch the Fayette Healthy Community Partnership, a collaboration of health care provider organizations, employers, retailers, and other businesses and groups brought together by locals Daye Bexley and Terry Womack to promote health and wellness in Fayette and Coweta Counties. Leaders of the Partnership include the Piedmont Fayette and Newnan Hospitals and the Piedmont Heart Institute, Kroger Stores and Pharmacies, the Center for Health Transformation, and Novo Nordisk.

In addition to the visit by Mr. Wilkins and Sen. Chance to the Peachtree City Youth Basketball Association at the Rising Starr Middle School Gym, today's events included an appearance by Mr. Wilkins at Kroger Fayetteville, where Kroger and Piedmont Fayette Hospital health care professionals combined forces to conduct a Health Fair focused on diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol and Body Mass index.

"At Kroger Stores and Pharmacies, we're committed to giving our customers not only quality products and services, but also opportunities to improve their health," said Liza Chapman, Pharm.D., Clinical Coordinator with Kroger Pharmacy. "That's why we will be providing free health screenings at seven of our stores in Fayette County beginning today through September 19, 2009. Please call 1-877.4RX-CLINIC (1-877-479-2546) or visit www.kroger.com for schedules, times and availability."

A key component of the Fayette Healthy Community Partnership is the Heart Health Scorecard, developed by the Piedmont Heart Institute. This scorecard is intended for use by patients on visits to their health care providers, serving as an anchor to a broader conversation about the need for individuals to become more engaged in their own health and health care. It contains questions to ask providers, as well as a handy chart for recording the results of a variety of important tests and risk assessments related to general health and well-being, such as weight circumference, blood pressure, body mass index, blood glucose (sugar), cholesterol, and triglycerides.

"More than 100,000 copies of this scorecard will be distributed to adults in Fayette and Coweta Counties over the course of the next year," said William A. Blincoe, M.D., cardiologist with the Piedmont Heart Institute. "We're proud to be a part of this community initiative and believe our Heart Health Scorecard will make a difference in the lives and health of thousands of the people we serve."

The Fayette County Chamber of Commerce is also pleased to be a part of this effort to promote a healthy community. The focus of their popular "Find it in Fayette" Community Expo this year is Health, Wellness and Sustainability. Says Chamber President, Virginia Gibbs, "We're thrilled that so many of the Fayette Healthy Community Partners will be exhibiting in the Expo this year. The event features a wide variety of health screenings and interactive displays. It's a great chance for young and old alike to learn more about how to stay healthy." Visit www.FayetteChamber.org for more info on the September 15th Community Expo.

"Community initiatives such as this are essential to transforming the health of our nation," said Laura Linn, Vice President and Director of the Georgia Project at the Center for Health Transformation. "Individuals knowledgeable of their health status living in communities supporting healthy behaviors are central to better health at lower cost."

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“Find it in Fayette!” Spotlight on Businesses

The Fayette County Chamber of Commerce has recently implemented a new program to help members shine. Eligible businesses will receive visibility through the new Find it in Fayette! Spotlight program which will bring Chamber members to the business for a networking reception. The spotlight program is part of a larger campaign to raise awareness of Fayette businesses and encourage consumers to buy local.

The first Find it in Fayette! Spotlight was held at Belk in Fayetteville. Store manager Kim Jones welcomed members and provided a 20% discount on purchases. According to Ms. Jones, the Spotlight was very successful and Belk significantly exceeded their sales goal for the day. Belk is the nation’s largest privately-owned department store company with more than 300 stores in 16 contiguous southern states and sales totaling $3.8 billion last year. They are committed to serving the community and providing superior service and merchandise that meet the needs of their customers.

For more information on the Find it in Fayette! Spotlight or other Chamber resources for businesses, contact the Chamber at 770.461.9983 or visit online at www.FayetteChamber.org.

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Chamber Presents Speed Networking to the Public August 25

The Fayette County Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Speed Networking event on Tuesday, August 25, 7:30 am – 9:00 am at the Chamber. Speed Networking is a fun, effective way to make a lot of business connections in a short, structured period of time.

Networking guru, Wendy Kinney of Ready Set Go Make Money will facilitate the event and provide tips and feedback. Chamber members and non-members are welcome to attend at no cost – registration is required. Online registration is available at www.FayetteChamber.org.

The Fayette Chamber is comprised of diverse member businesses and organizations working together to strengthen our local economy. Their mission is to provide businesses with tools, resources and visionary leadership which will positively impact community sustainability. Through Chamber networking events like Business After Hours, Business to Business Luncheons, and the new Speed Networking opportunity, valuable relationships can be built that will help businesses grow and prosper.

For information on other Chamber programs, contact the office at 770.461.9983. The Chamber is located on the 1st floor of the old courthouse building at 200 Courthouse Square, Fayetteville.

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Chamber Collaborates with SCORE to Help Small Businesses

Fayette businesses have a new option for help with everything from writing a business plan to locating available resources to face-to-face counseling. The Fayette Chamber is opening its office to a new SCORE chapter to provide mentoring to new and existing small businesses. And the best news is that the SCORE services are FREE!

SCORE is a national organization of almost 11,000 volunteers in 375 chapters serving over 500,000 clients yearly. The Atlanta Chapter alone has over 75 counselors in 15 offices throughout the metro area. The new Fayette chapter is offering services to Fayette and Coweta businesses.

SCORE counselors will schedule appointments on Fridays from 11 am to 1 pm. Appointments can be made by registering online at www.scoreatlanta.org.

The Chamber’s collaboration with SCORE is part of an on-going effort to provide Fayette businesses with the tools and resources they need to succeed. If you would like more information, contact the Chamber at 770.461.9983 or visit www.FayetteChamber.org.

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SCORE Comes to Fayette County

The Fayette County Chamber of Commerce office in Fayetteville will be the home of a brand new SCORE chapter. SCORE is a 45 year old resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration. Its mostly retired counselors offer free small business counseling and low cost workshops to both startup and in-business clients.

Nationally, SCORE is an organization of almost 11,000 volunteers in 375 chapters in the U.S. serving over 500,000 clients yearly. The Atlanta Chapter is an organization of over 75 counselors located in 15 offices throughout the Atlanta metropolitan area.

The new Fayette County chapter will operate from the Fayette Chamber office at 200 Courthouse Square in Fayetteville. The SCORE counselors will schedule appointments from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Fridays. To make an appointment for counseling or attend one of the chapter’s workshops, visit www.scoreatlanta.org and register. A counselor will call to set an appointment.

The opening of the SCORE chapter in collaboration with the Fayette Chamber and Fayette Encore graduates represents a golden opportunity for small businesses in the area to obtain professional guidance in the operation of their businesses.

The Chamber’s collaboration with SCORE provides another tool for Fayette County businesses to use to help them survive and thrive in the current economic climate. For more information on how the Chamber helps strengthen local businesses, contact their office at 770.461.9983 or visit online at www.FayetteChamber.org.

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Fayette Chamber Honors Partners in Education

partPete Meadows (Fayette County Chamber of Commerce Board Chair); Lacie Banks (Delta Community Credit Union); Tracey Hood (Delta Community Credit Union); Keith L. Brown, “Motivator of the Millennium”; Peggy Thomas (Club Z! In-Home Tutoring Services); Virginia Gibbs (Fayette County Chamber of Commerce President); and Dr. John DeCotis (Fayette County Schools Superintendent).

The Fayette County Chamber of Commerce recently honored members of the business community who have made outstanding contributions to the Fayette County school system through the Partners in Education program. On Friday, May 1st at New Hope Baptist Church, three outstanding business partners were recognized for their contributions of time, talent, and treasure to enhance the educational opportunities of Fayette students.

The following business partners were nominated for the Outstanding Partners in Education Awards: Chick-fil-A (Fayetteville Towne Center); Chick-fil-A (Hwy 54 in PTC); Club Z! In-Home Tutoring Services; Coldwater Creek; Delta Community Credit Union (Crosstown Branch); Delta Community Credit Union (Hwy 74 Branch); Diversified Electronics; Mathnasium; Old Colonial Restoration; Southern Community Bank; Target (Fayetteville); United Community Bank.

The nominees provided various contributions including employee volunteerism, as well as monetary or in-kind support for projects and programs throughout the 2008-2009 school year.

Delta Community Credit Union’s Hwy 74 Branch in Peachtree City was the first honoree for their contributions to the students and staff of Peachtree City Elementary. Mentorship was a big part of their contribution for the afterschool (ASP) program. DCCU also provided funds for supplies and new speakers and provided a place for the children to perform. They provided meeting rooms and in-services for the teachers. At the same time, students from Peachtree City Elementary supported Delta Community Credit Union in their community efforts. This partnership has been building for two years.

Delta Community Credit Union’s Crosstown Branch also received a recognition award for donating 3 sets of “cubbies” for 20 classrooms for a total of 60 units. DCCU took care of all the materials, labor, and delivery expenses. In addition, several staff members are regular volunteers in the classrooms, working one on one with the children who need extra help in reading and/or math. Bonnie Hancock, Principal of Oak Grove Elementary made the nomination and said “Having someone from outside the school faculty come in and focus their attention on one child is invaluable”.

The final award was presented to Club Z! In-Home Tutoring Services who enthusiastically became engaged in working with McIntosh High School to develop a specific SAT/ACT prep test. Funds collected for the prep tests were given directly to the Guidance department for student needs. Club Z! In-Home Tutoring Services donated approximately 142 personnel hours in administering, scoring, and reporting results. The experience was so positive, the plan will be offered again next year. They have provided other schools with funds to support Spring Flings, Chorus programs, 5k runs and the “Evening with the Stars” retirement celebration. They have also given gifts for teacher recognition, free tutoring scholarships and approximately 145 hours of free tutoring.

The guest speaker at the breakfast was Keith L. Brown, “Motivator of the Millennium”. Keith’s inspirational message educated, entertained and empowered over 100 attendees, including Board of Education representatives, school administrators, teachers, Fayette Chamber members and other representatives from the Fayette business community.

The event was sponsored by The Southern Federal Credit Union, Piedmont Fayette Hospital, Delta Community Credit Union and speaker Keith L. Brown.

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10th Annual Partners in Education Recognition Breakfast

The Fayette County Chamber of Commerce will recognize the 2009 Outstanding Business Partners of the Year at their annual Partners in Education Recognition Breakfast on Friday, May 1, 2009, 7:30 am at New Hope Baptist Church in Fayetteville. The guest speaker will be Keith L. Brown, “Motivator of the Millennium.” Mr. Brown is recognized as one of the top 50 speakers and experts in education by Insight Publishing and one of the top 10 speakers by International Speakers Network.

The community is cordially invited to attend the breakfast. The cost is $10.00 per person. To register, call the Chamber at 770.461.9983 by Wednesday, April 29th or register online through the Chamber’s event calendar at www.FayetteChamber.org.

Sponsors for this year’s breakfast are Delta Community Credit Union, Piedmont Fayette Hospital, The Southern Federal Credit Union and Keith L. Brown. Additional support provided by ClubZ! In-Home Tutoring Services.

The Partners in Education program is a joint effort of the Chamber and the Fayette County Board of Education that provides an avenue for businesses to form partnerships with public schools and educational programs in Fayette County. Business “Partners” work with the school system to prepare the workforce of tomorrow by providing enhanced educational opportunities for student. To learn more about getting involved with the Partners in Education program, contact Joyce Gaglione at the Fayette Chamber (770.461.9983).

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And the $10,000 Winner IS…

(l-r) Winners Lynn Ball, Jim Phillips, and Kathy Sloat with Virginia Gibbs, President, Fayette Chamber of Commerce

The Fayette Chamber recently presented $10,000 to the winning ticket holder selected at a reception following their annual Business on the Green Classic. The drawing is a major fund raiser for the Chamber to help support their mission to provide tools and resources to strengthen Fayette businesses. Chamber members and ticket holders gathered at the reception to congratulate the golfers and join in the fun as the winning ticket was drawn.

This year’s $10,000 winner was ticket number 021, jointly purchased by Jim Phillips, Lynn Ball and Kathy Sloat. The Chamber appreciates the support of all the individuals who purchased a ticket this year, despite the challenging economy!

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