Press Releases

Contact: Dave Scott, KaZee Inc., 770-354-7228

email: dscott@kazee.us

Illinois Departments of Corrections and Juvenile Justice sign electronic health records contract with Georgia firm

KaZee’s Inc.’s efforts will improve the health of those in custody

ATLANTA, GA (July 15, 2019) — The State of Illinois has turned to a Georgia company, KaZee, Inc., to help it streamline and improve the health and healthcare of the more than 39.000 adults and juveniles incarcerated in its prisons and detention centers while at the same time cut costs.

The recently contracted Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) and its Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) programs are part of an agreement with the federal government to upgrade the state’s prison system to help advance the quality of healthcare provided to patients and improve healthcare outcomes. As part of this program, the state has agreed to expand and upgrade its healthcare facilities and equipment, and hire staff dedicated to implementing and overseeing stringent quality assurance and disease control programs and electronic health records systems.

The State of Illinois, through IDOC and IDJJ, contracted with KaZee, Inc, an Atlanta-based healthcare IT company, to assist with the implementation and support of a state-wide electronic heath records system. KaZee is charged with assisting the state in automating the process of managing patient healthcare charts and records and supporting it in the delivery of cost-effective quality medical, dental, mental health, pharmacy and other specialty care.

“The cost of providing healthcare continues to increase rapidly, states are under severe pressure to improve the quality of the healthcare they provide to the people in their custody,” says Albert Woodard, chairman and CEO, KaZee, Inc. “As a result, they are increasingly turning to information technology systems and solutions.”

KaZee is intimately familiar with the IDOC having helped automate health record systems for its female facilities the past six years.

“Improving access to quality healthcare and specialists along with continuity and follow-up care should greatly improve healthcare outcomes and improve the overall physical and mental health of the persons in the custody of the Illinois Departments of Corrections and Juvenile Justice” says Woodard. “In addition to improving the overall health of the state’s prison population these programs will help assist them as they re-enter society, decrease recidivism rates and help improve public safety.”

From 1988 to 1998 the US prison population doubled according to the U.S. Justice Department making the U.S. the number one incarcerator worldwide. In 1978 the U.S. inmate population was approximately 750,000 people. Today that number is reported to be in excess of more than 2.2 million individuals. “The increasing prison population is due to aging, tougher sentencing laws, longer prison sentences, as well as increases in chronic illnesses diabetes and heart disease, infectious diseases such as AIDS and hepatitis and mentally ill and homeless patients now being housed in prisons and jails,” says Woodard.

Illinois is no exception; its prison population has grown eight percent since 2000. Illinois has the 22nd lowest incarceration rate in the country, with a rate of 341 per 100,000 people sentenced to a year or more behind bars in 2016, slightly below the national average.

About KaZee, Inc.

KaZee, Inc., is a leading provider of high-quality information technology (IT) products and services to the healthcare industry. Working with the University of Texas Medical Branch and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, KaZee helped develop and implement one of the first Electronic Health Records Systems in the Country and one of the largest Telemedicine Operations in the World outside of the U.S. Department of Defense. KaZee works with Parkland Hospital today to help support Parkland’s contract with Dallas County to provide quality healthcare to the County’s inmate populations. Both programs have received high recognition for the quality and cost effectiveness of the healthcare they provide their inmates. KaZee is a national firm that supports its customers all across the country. For more information about KaZee visit www.KaZee.us.

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Disclaimer

The content and accuracy of all information contained in this press release is the responsibility of the originating company or group. All information contained in this press release may be independently checked prior to any use or publication. Information and/or opinions expressed in this press release are not necessarily the views of Georgia Press Association or its affiliates.

Contact: Mary-Margaret Fox, Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving, 229-931-2077

email: marymargaret.fox@gsw.edu

Rosalynn Carter Institute calls for Caregiver of the Year nominations

Awards recognize outstanding Georgians who tirelessly dedicate themselves to others

AMERICUS, GEORGIA — The Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving (RCI) is pleased to open nominations for the 2019 Georgia Caregiver of the Year Awards. The Awards recognize the self-less work done by caregivers across the state in three categories: Family Caregiver, Volunteer Caregiver, and Para-Professional Caregiver.

“The people who care for others is often a role that is not recognized. Mrs. Carter started the Institute to ensure that these selfless people have their unique needs addressed and are recognized for their work,” said Dr. Jennifer Olsen, Executive Director of the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving. “What better place to start than here at home in Georgia?”

Caregivers may be nominated by those able to evaluate their performance and demonstrate how they are making a difference in the lives of the care recipients they serve.

From these nominations, three caregivers will be selected as the top Caregivers of the Year in Georgia. The three different categories recognize a unique role within the caregiving community.

The Family Caregiver Award is presented to a family member, or non-relative close friend who provides assistance to a person with a disability, chronic illness or other condition requiring support and assistance to have a full life in the community.

The Para-professional Caregiver Award is presented to a licensed practical nurses (LPNs), therapy aide, home health aide, certified nursing assistants (CNAs), nurse’s aide/patient care technician, or direct support caregiver such as companions or sitters for their work.

The Volunteer Caregiver Award is presented to a volunteer that has completed at least one year of service caring for an individual or individuals in a capacity that aids and/or improves their life. Additionally, this could also be someone who supports caregivers by volunteering at a caregiving organization or facility.

To be eligible for either of the awards, the nominee must be currently providing care or volunteering, or must have provided care or volunteered within the past year.

Caregivers can be nominated here.

Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter will host a luncheon October 25, 2019 in Americus, GA to honor the three recipients and their nominators.

The Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving (RCI) is the preeminent organization dedicated to strengthening the over 65 million caregivers in the United States through advocacy, education, research and service. Established in 1987 by former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, RCI works to raise the awareness of caregivers’ needs and to create an environment that supports them.

For additional information about the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving, visit www.rosalynncarter.org.

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Contact: George Heiring, Georgia Writers Museum, 706-473-0150

email: gwheiring@plantationcable.net

Georgia’s poet laureate serves as museum ghost host

Step inside the Georgia Writers Museum in downtown Eatonton, Georgia, and you’ll come face to face with a literary ghost. Frank Lebby Stanton, was Georgia’s first poet laureate, an editorial writer and a popular columnist for the Atlanta Constitution from 1888 to 1927. His charming, witty verse became lyrics for top selling parlor songs at the turn of the century, among them “Mighty Lak a Rose“and “Just Awearyin’ for You.”

Today his imposing portrait, dressed in a frock coat and smart red tie, welcomes visitors to a museum celebrating internationally famous Georgia writers, including Stanton’s long-time friend Joel Chandler Harris, co-editor on the Atlanta Constitution and author of Uncle Remus stories admired by Mark Twain, Rudyard Kipling and Teddy Roosevelt.

Once inside the museum, ghost host Stanton makes a brief appearance in an introductory video, then serves as an amiable audio tour guide. The Georgia Writers Museum spotlights three famous writers who began their creative lives near Eatonton. In addition to Harris, it features Flannery O’Connor—considered one the best short story writers of the 20^th century—and Alice Walker, novelist, poet and activist who received the Pulitzer Prize for her novel The Color Purple.

The museum is also the year-round home for the Georgia Writers Hall of Fame. Photos of all 69 writers inducted into the hall are on display, along with timelines of major literary achievements throughout Georgia’s history. Recent renovation makes use of video, audio, and interactivity to keep visitors informed and engaged. The museum is open Thursday-Friday, 11am-5pm, Saturday 10-4, and Monday – Wednesday by appointment. More information is available at georgiawritersmuseum.com.

As for Stanton, you’ll find he is a cheerful, not a scary, ghost host, one in keeping with the inscription on his tombstone in Atlanta’s Westview Cemetery: “This world we’re a’livin’ in, is mighty hard to beat. You get a thorn with every rose, but ain’t the roses sweet?”

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Contact: Amy Henderson, Georgia Municipal Association, 678-686-6226

email: ahenderson@gmanet.com

Cities recognized for adopting ethics ordinances

SAVANNAH – The city of Crawfordville was recognized as the most recently certified Cities of Ethics at the Georgia Municipal Association’s (GMA) Annual Convention June 24. Gilmer County also received the County of Ethics certification, while 36 additional cities received recertifications.

The cities of Acworth, Barnesville, Brunswick, Buford, Centerville, Clarkston, Dawsonville, Donalsonville, Dublin, Dunwoody, Grantville, Helen, Hinesville, Hiram, Lakeland, Luthersville, Madison, Maysville, Meansville, Midway, Moultrie, Mount Airy, Mount Vernon, Newnan, Nicholson, Powder Springs, Reynolds, Sandersville, Savannah, Sugar Hill, Suwanee, Swainsboro, Sylvester, Tifton, Trion and Vienna.

The City of Ethics program began in 1999 and was developed by a panel of business and government leaders to encourage cities to adopt and adhere to a set of key ethical principles and adopt a local ethics ordinance. The ordinance must contain definitions, prohibited conduct and due process for officials accused of violations in areas such as financial disclosures, conflicts of interests and outside employment. The ordinance must also contain penalties for city officials who violate the ordinance.

GMA requires cities with the designation to recertify for the program, ensuring that ordinances maintain the standards of the program and city officials are regularly reminded of their ethical obligations as individuals and as a governing body. Each city is required to apply for recertification every four years.

A panel of attorneys reviewed the ordinances to determine if they comply with the criteria set by GMA. The cities received a plaque and are now authorized by GMA to use a “Certified City of Ethics” logo on city stationery, road signs, city vehicles and for other uses.

Based in Atlanta, GMA is a voluntary, non-profit organization that provides legislative advocacy, educational, employee benefit and consulting services to its 538 member cities.

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Contact: Ashley Bush, Southwire, 770-832-4577, email: ashley.bush@southwire.com

Southwire lands consecutive appearance on Forbes list of America’s Best Employers

Company’s strong focus on diversity and inclusion and employees’ pride in products and services key contributors to high score for 2019

Carrollton, GA – June 27, 2019: Reflecting the company’s strong commitment to its employees, Southwire was named by Forbes as one of America’s Best Employers for 2019, ranking #114 on this year’s list of 500 top businesses.

Forbes list of America’s Best Employers highlights the companies that employees like best. Through the support of Statista, an independent statistics and studies company, more than 50,000 people who work at companies employing more than 1,000 people in their U.S. operations were surveyed about their employee experience and were given the opportunity to recommend others in their industry.

This is not the company’s first appearance as one of America’s Best Employers. Last year, Southwire ranked #297 in the top 500, so the 2019 ranking is a significant advancement. On this year’s list, the company ranked third among those in the engineering/manufacturing segment.

“We’re approaching 70 years of legacy, and we are incredibly proud to see that both our employees and others in our industry believe that Southwire is a great place to work. Our people are what make our company special,” said Rich Stinson, Southwire’s President and CEO. “As we grow, we are being more and more intentional about enhancing the employee experience and are gaining insight and feedback from our employees through a variety of ways to ensure we’re taking the right steps. This achievement is proof.”

Areas in which the survey reflects company success in 2019 include diversity and inclusion and overall employee appreciation and pride for the company’s products and services. Over the last several years, the company has set forth a formalized diversity and inclusivity program, creating employee resource groups (ERGs) that place an emphasis on programming, sharing of ideas, collaboration and training for women, people of color, veterans, LGBT, millennials and more, which allow employees to feel free to grow, trusted to try and empowered to be themselves.

“As a team, we know that our D&I initiatives are working, but it is encouraging to see our employees publicly sharing their pride around what we’re doing to create a more inclusive environment here at Southwire,” said Kelley Park, EVP of Human Resources. “Our ERGs are thriving, and I am excited to see how we continue to grow stronger together through what these groups are doing within our company.”

Other areas in which the survey shows strong results include a trusting and fair workplace climate, reward and general interest in job responsibilities.

“As I’ve said time and time again, it is our commitment that Southwire remains generationally-sustainable for the next 100 years and beyond,” said Stinson. “As we believe is true for all of our stakeholders, taking care of our people and listening to and addressing their needs allows us to better align ourselves toward a meaningful future as a business. I am so thankful to lead this great group of people and look forward to many more years of continued growth and success.”

For the full list of America’s Best Employers, visit www.forbes.com/best-large-employers.

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A leader in technology and innovation and an emerging influence in the industrial electrical space, Southwire Company, LLC is one of North America’s largest wire and cable producers. Southwire and its subsidiaries manufacture building wire and cable, metal-clad cable, portable and electronic cord products, OEM wire products and engineered products. In addition, Southwire supplies assembled products, contractor equipment and hand tools. For more on Southwire’s products, its community involvement and its vision of sustainability, visit southwiresustainability.com.

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Contact: Noah Southerland, FiberRise Inc., 256-604-9937, noah.southerland@fiber-rise.com

Central Alabama Electric Cooperative teams with FiberRise to build broadband network

CAEC to serve metro and rural areas with nation’s most advanced network

PRATTVILLE, AL — (May 30, 2019) Central Alabama Electric Cooperative (CAEC) has teamed with FiberRise to build the area’s most advanced fiber network supporting smart grid management for CAEC’s electric distribution system and broadband access for the entire community. Combining Gigabit rate access technology with 100G transport, CAEC will be able to deliver symmetric gigabit speed services to metro and rural areas, creating opportunities for advanced applications and economic growth. Through its wholly-owned fiber to the premise (FTTP) subsidiary, Central Access, CAEC will connect the entire community to the world while attracting industry and improving educational opportunity, healthcare, and overall quality of life.

“Our members have made it overwhelmingly clear that they are in need of affordable and reliable broadband,” said Tom Stackhouse, CEO of CAEC. “As CAEC builds out the fiber infrastructure needed to communicate with our offices and other assets, we have a great opportunity to bring this life-changing service to all of our members, and we believe that this service meets an essential need for our communities and will ensure a brighter future for the lives of every member we serve.” CAEC eventually decided upon FiberRise to assist with the engineering and implementation of the broadband project. “As we looked for a partner to provide expertise, we selected FiberRise because they represent many of our core principles of service and trust, combined with a history of success.”

Tommy Harmon, CEO of FiberRise, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and optimism for the future of the communities impacted by this advanced technology. “We are excited to serve CAEC as they bring the industry’s most advanced fiber solutions to their communities. The impact of this fiber broadband network is not only immediate but long-lasting. Fiber has unlimited capacity and has a proven record of positively changing communities with enormous new opportunities for healthcare, education and business development. CAEC’s fiber infrastructure and FTTP through Central Access will ensure the next generation of members served by CAEC will have the same broadband opportunities as America’s largest cities.”

About Central Alabama Electric Cooperative

Central Alabama Electric Cooperative (CAEC) is a not for profit, member-owned electric distribution cooperative utility serving more than 43,000 meters in a 10-county area of central Alabama, just north of Montgomery, with over 5,500 miles of electric lines. Central Alabama Electric Cooperative invests in its communities to improve the quality of life. CAEC’s employees are committed to serving the community, and CAEC invests in education, leadership and partnerships that build both the human and physical infrastructure, contributing to the community’s economic well-being.

About Central Access

Central Access, Inc. is a wholly-owned fiber to the premise (FTTP) subsidiary of Central Alabama Electric Cooperative (CAEC). The CAEC Board of Trustees created Central Access to build out a broadband system to the areas in and around the CAEC utility system.

About FiberRise

FiberRise, LLC enables electric utilities to implement and maintain fiber infrastructure with complete business visibility and simplicity in the delivery of broadband services. FiberRise serves electrical cooperatives and investor-owned utilities throughout the South and has a proven track record of winning state and federal grant awards for its customers, including CAF, CAF II and Reconnect programs. FiberRise manages fiber projects from inception and construction through operations and maintenance with high-touch service and support. FiberRise focuses on quality of life by helping to make broadband affordable and accessible to all. For more information, please visit us at www.fiber-rise.com.

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Contact: Marjorie Dykes, Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, 770-338-0051

email: marjorie@georgiamanufacturing.com

Georgia Manufacturing Alliance kicks off “Buy from Georgia” initiative in July to highlight consumer-based products made in Georgia

Atlanta, GA – The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA) and manufacturing leaders from across the state will kick off “Buy From Georgia Month” in July. This will be the 6th year that GMA has promoted manufacturers and the consumer-based goods they produce in Georgia. GMA’s plant tour series in July will highlight these local manufacturers and the economic impact that they are having in their communities.

“Over 440,000 people are employed in the 10,000 manufacturing facilities in Georgia,” said Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. “Countless jobs are directly impacted as a result of educating consumers about the importance of buying Georgia made products. The Buy From Georgia initiative is critical to the economic vitality of our state, and bringing awareness to our local manufacturers.

Jason Moss and his team will travel across the state in July to highlight name brands that people may see in the store each day and not be aware that these products are supporting Georgia’s economy. Consumers and manufacturers alike are encouraged to participate in the Buy From GA plant tours. Click here to register for a tour.

Chick-Fil-A Headquarters Tour • July 8 • College Park

Our tour will be a true “behind the scenes look” at the Chick-Fil-A corporate headquarters including the fascinating history, culture, and values of Founder Truett Cathy. Attendees will be touring the: • Main Campus Building to see their flexible work/office design and History Museum, • Kitchen Building to see their menu, new product, and packaging development space • Nest Building: Where they offer onsite training center for their Operators and Team Members.

Daniel Defense Plant Tour • July 9 • Ellabell (Savannah Area)

Founded in 2000 by President/CEO Marty Daniel, the company was born from his vision to create custom rifle accessories. His concepts have evolved into one of the most recognizable brands in the firearms, consisting of the world’s finest AR15-style rifles, pistols, bolt action rifles, and accessories for civilian, law enforcement, and military customers and they produce 50,000-60,000 AR15 style rifles and accessories per year. Tour attendees will see their 300,000 sq. ft. modern manufacturing facility showcasing their advanced processes including Cold Hammer Forging, CNC Machining, Horizontal & Vertical Machining Centers, and Swiss Screw Machining.

Lane Southern Orchards Plant Tour • July 16 • Fort Valley

Tour the largest combined peach and pecan grower in the U.S., with 500 team members tending 11,000 acres throughout middle Georgia. The $4 million expansion to their packing facility has doubled capacity allowing the company to process 3 million cases per day. While every piece of fruit is still hand-picked and hand-packed, they have installed a customized gentle robotic bin handling system to streamline efficiencies. Their new addition also includes an expanded and improved cold chain within the facility, a high-efficiency sorting & grading technology system, enhanced LED lighting, and new shipping and receiving facilities.

West Georgia Corn Hole • July 17 • Winston (Morning)

Brandon Greba spent most Thursday nights building corn hole boards in his garage, filling orders whenever he could find some time away from his nine-to-five gig as an industrial supply sales manager. Two babies, 17 employees and thousands of orders later, they now ship products across the U.S. and abroad. With top-of-the-line designers and equipment purchases, including a UV Flatbed Printer and CNC Routers, he has expanded his range of products to feature LED lights and Bluetooth speaker boards, and a wide variety of tailgate games. West Georgia Corn Hole is now capable of designing, building and shipping in six hours even landing a custom rush order for Golden State Warrior Stephen Curry.

Lamon Luther Furniture • July 17 • Villa Rica (Afternoon)

Featured on CNN, Bob Vila, and CBS, Lamon Luther is about building hope and creating opportunity for homeless carpenters. They achieve this by putting tools in their hands and allowing them to build the finest handcrafted furniture in the world. They take reclaimed wood from dismantled homes, barns and shipping pallets and turning them into beautiful works of art for the home and office. While custom home furniture is their specialty, they have done projects from the Mercedes Benz Stadium, Sun Trust Stadium, Krog Street Market and many more. The company is on pace to do a half-million dollars in sales this year — using reclaimed wood to rebuild lives.

Thermo Pac Plant Tour • July 25 • Stone Mountain

Have you ever wondered who processes the single serving sauce packs, salsa cups, jelly and peanut butter packets for the food service industry? Themo Pac offers unique expertise in the processing of portion control, shelf-stable food products in innovative, flexible, and semi-rigid packaging. Go behind the scenes and see the entire process from food development, to container design, to the manufacturing process of bringing these great food items to your table. They also process MRE’s, and Ready-To-Use Therapeutic Meals that are compact meals that can be used for the military or during emergency situations. Attendees will tour their modern facility to see their production processes including blending, hot/cold fill, and assembly capabilities.

Procter & Gamble Plant Tour • July 26 • Albany

P&G products have made a name for themselves by combining “what’s needed” with “what’s possible”—making our lives more enjoyable for over 181 years. Their Albany Plant – the 2nd largest in the U.S. – covers over 70 acres under one roof and generates over 1.3 Billion in sales. This facility manufactures Bounty and Charmin products and attendees will see the entire behind the scenes manufacturing process from paper making to converting to warehousing. Learn about their sustainability initiative through their combined Heat and Power Plant operated by Albany Green Energy.

The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance will host over 120 events this year including over 50 plant tours, educational sessions, and unique networking opportunities designed to help make profitable business connections for its members. Their capstone event of the year, the Georgia Manufacturing Summit, will be held October 9th at the Cobb Galleria. This 5th annual Summit highlights the people, plants and products that help create a more vibrant manufacturing environment in our state. Expected to attract over 1,000 attendees, this year’s focus will be “Manufacturing Success in Georgia”. More than 40 industry leaders and top name Keynotes will share the manufacturing trends to track and their recommendations for a more successful future.

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Contact: Georgia Power Media Relations, 404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696, www.gapower.com

Georgia Power customers to see credit on June bills

$96 million in bill credits for customers from tax law in second of three scheduled installments;

Total of $330 million in direct credits to customers over two years

ATLANTA – June 4, 2019 – The second of three credits associated with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 will be applied directly to Georgia Power customers’ bills in June. These credits are a result of the reduction in Georgia Power’s federal corporate tax rate from 35% down to 21%.

Georgia Power customers will receive the credit based upon energy consumption from September 2018 through April 2019. The typical residential customer using an average of 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month would receive a credit of approximately $18 on their June Georgia Power bill. The actual amount of the credit will vary based on a customer’s specific energy usage.

“At Georgia Power, we work every day to provide the highest customer value through customer service and the delivery of clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy with rates below the national average,” said Kevin Kastner, vice president of customer service for Georgia Power. “We are pleased to continue to pass along benefits to our customers through these direct credits on Georgia Power bills this month.”

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act benefits were approved in March 2018 as part of an agreement with Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) Staff. In total, Georgia Power is providing three separate credits to customers that will total $330 million. The first credit of $131 million was issued in October 2018, the second credit, totaling $96 million is being applied this month and the third credit of $103 million is scheduled for February 2020.

To learn more about Georgia Power’s commitment to safe, clean, reliable and affordable energy, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com.

About Georgia Power: Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.6 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy at rates below the national average, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is consistently recognized by J.D. Power and Associates as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), Twitter (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

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Contact: Joy Crosby, Georgia Peanut Commission, 229-386-3690

email: joycrosby@gapeanuts.com

Georgia Peanut Commission: Disaster assistance bill passes Congress

Peanut farmers applaud efforts from Georgia’s Congressional Delegation

TIFTON, Ga. – Georgia peanut farmers applaud the U.S. House of Representatives passage of the long-awaited disaster aid bill by 354-58 yesterday. The passage comes eight months after Hurricane Michael devastated portions of Georgia, Alabama and Florida. The passage has come at a critical time as farmers are in the midst of planting their 2019 crops.

Previously, the disaster aid bill passed the Senate by a vote of 85-8 on May 23. This package contains $19.1 billion of disaster relief, including $605 million for Puerto Rico’s Nutrition Assistance Program, $300 million for additional Community Development Block Grants for Puerto Rico, $3.2 billion to rebuild military bases like Tyndall Air Force Base and Camp Lejeune, $3.3 billion for flood damage repair, and $3 billion for agricultural losses. Additionally, California will be eligible to receive more than $8 billion in assistance for wildfire recovery.

“We are thankful for the work of Georgia’s Congressional delegation in staying strong and never giving up on passage of the disaster aid bill,” says Armond Morris, chairman of the Georgia Peanut Commission. “The work of Senators David Perdue and Johnny Isakson as well as Congressmen Sanford Bishop and Austin Scott have been tremendous in helping farmers obtain the disaster relief that is greatly needed.”

The bill now heads to President Trump for final approval. Once signed, the U.S. Department of Agriculture will work to implement. A summary of the disaster relief package is available on the Georgia Peanut Commission website at www.gapeanuts.com.

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Contact: Taylor Sills, Georgia Cotton Commission, 478-988-4235

email: taylor@georgiacotton.org

Cotton Commission welcomes disaster vote, trade announcement

The Georgia Cotton Commission would like to thank their partners in the congress for their recent passage of disaster assistance and President Trump for his announcement of a revamped trade assistance package for farmers affected by adverse market conditions caused by ongoing trade negotiations between the United States and various foreign nations. A big thank you goes out to the members of Georgia’s congressional delegation for keeping this issue at the forefront of political discussions despite the length of time it took for their colleagues to act on it.

“These funds do not just help farmers devastated by Hurricane Michael, but also our rural communities that depend on agriculture for their economic sustainability,” said Bart Davis, a cotton farmer from Colquitt County. “Furthermore, this legislation goes to farmers and rural communities in states all over the country affected by recent natural disasters,” he added.

While disaster legislation still requires presidential signature, the Commission is hopeful that President Trump will sign this act and hope USDA will enact this program quickly so that struggling producers can pay off bridge loans and other financing that may be needed to close out the 2018 crop year. Details have not been fully released on either of these programs

The Georgia Cotton Commission is a producer-funded organization located in Perry, Georgia. The Commission began in 1965. Georgia cotton producers pay an assessment enabling the Commission to invest in programs of research, promotion, and education on behalf of all cotton producers of Georgia. For more information about this and other topics please call 478-988-4235 or visit us on the web at www.georgiacottoncommission.org.

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Contact: Marjorie Dykes, Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, 770-338-0051

email: marjorie@georgiamanufacturing.com

Southwire to sponsor People of Manufacturing Awards at 2019 Georgia Manufacturing Summit

Atlanta, GA — The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA) is proud to announce that Southwire will sponsor the People of Manufacturing Awards, held in conjunction with the Georgia Manufacturing Summit, on October 9 at the Cobb Galleria. These prestigious awards bring exposure and recognition to the top employees in Georgia’s manufacturing community and honor the people that have gone above and beyond to better their organization’s manufacturing operations.

Nominations are being accepted through August 1 for the 2019 awards. Categories include Front Line Leadership, Plant Manager, Team Safety and Team Operational Excellence. Nominations can be made at https://www.georgiamanufacturingalliance.com/awards

“We have been fortunate to be a part of GMA since 2016, and during that time, have truly seen the value of this great organization,” said Jason Pollard, vice president of talent acquisition and communications for Southwire. “By coming together to highlight and collectively showcase our thoughts, ideas and best practices, we are strengthening the impact that manufacturing can have in the state of Georgia and around the world.”

Founded in Carrollton, GA in 1950, Southwire Company, LLC is one of North America’s largest wire and cable producers. Southwire and its subsidiaries manufacture building wire and cable, metal-clad cable, utility cable, portable and electronic cord products, OEM wire products and engineered products. In addition, Southwire supplies assembled products, contractor equipment and hand tools. The company operates 34 manufacturing plants, 10 distribution facilities, and multiple sales and support offices across the globe. In Georgia, Southwire operates in Carrollton, Douglas, and Villa Rica.

“With a common dedication to the education and development of Georgia manufacturers, we are honored that Southwire is sponsoring our People of Manufacturing Awards,” said Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. “They are a leader in technology, products and innovation and we are excited about their community involvement and their vision for a sustainable future.”

The Georgia Manufacturing Summit will attract over 1,000 industry professionals who will gather to discuss the issues most important to Georgia manufacturers. Top manufacturing leaders can network with their peers, learn best business practices, see innovative products, and share insights on the Manufacturing Trends to Track for 2020. To learn more, visit https://www.georgiamanufacturingalliance.com/annual-summit

ABOUT GMA: The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA) is a membership-based industry organization founded in 2008 to support Georgia’s manufacturing community. GMA provides monthly plant tours, educational sessions, tradeshows, and unique networking opportunities designed to help make profitable business connections for its members. The Georgia Manufacturing Directory, Georgia Manufacturing Summit, Georgia Manufacturing Calendar, and Buy From Georgia website are additional resources provided by GMA. To learn more about the organization, membership, and upcoming events, please call 770-338-0051 or visit their website https://www.georgiamanufacturingalliance.com/

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Contact: Amy Henderson, Georgia Municipal Association, 678-686-6226

email: ahenderson@gmanet.com

Applied Information supports cities through participation in Georgia Municipal Association

ATLANTA – The Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) announces that Applied Information Inc. continues to demonstrate its commitment to Georgia’s 538 cities as a 2019 GMA Business Alliance Program participating company. The BAP connects companies with municipal leaders to share knowledge and expertise to strengthen Georgia’s cities and support the mission of GMA.

Applied Information (AI) believes that traffic should be easy for government agencies to monitor and maintain and that roadways should be safe for citizen transportation. To this end, AI is a leading developer of solutions that focus on connecting infrastructure and people to infrastructure to improve roads for everyone.

“Applied Information is pleased to be a part of the Business Alliance Program,” said Bryan Mulligan, President AI. “The program allows for the company to better understand the needs and wants of the municipal cities of the GMA. This allows for Applied Information to create better solutions that more accurately address the needs of Georgia’s citizens.”

“The participating companies in GMA’s Business Alliance Program provide our municipal members with additional resources and information to help them operate their cities in the best manner possible. They also support GMA’s ability to provide services for all member cities,” said GMA Executive Director Larry Hanson. “We value the commitment and expertise that Applied Information and other companies bring to our cities and our organization.”

About GMA:

Based in Atlanta, GMA is a voluntary, non-profit organization that provides legislative advocacy, educational, employee benefit and consulting services to its 538 member cities.

About Applied Information:

Applied Information, Inc (AI) is a leading developer of connected, intelligent transportation system (ITS) solutions designed to improve safety, reliability and mobility. Applied Information’s Glance Smart City Supervisory System™ platform allows cities to manage all their traffic and ITS assets on one web-based application. This includes 5 key areas: Traffic Intersections, School Beacons, Parking Guidance System, Mobile Vehicle Assets and ITS devices. AI’s Glance TravelSafely™ smartphone app connects drivers, cyclists and pedestrians for a safer commute.

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Disclaimer

Contact: Amy Henderson, Georgia Municipal Association, 678-686-6226

email: ahenderson@gmanet.com

Patel appointed general counsel for Georgia Municipal Association

ATLANTA – Rusi Patel has been appointed General Counsel for the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA), a state-wide association that represents all 538 cities in Georgia.

Patel has been on the legal staff at GMA since 2010. Prior to that, he served as Assistant City Attorney and City Solicitor for the city of Brunswick, Ga. At GMA, he has been involved in the association’s advocacy efforts at the state Capitol, written court briefs supporting city interests and taught classes on municipal law and open meetings/open records. In addition, Patel works closely with city attorneys around the state.

“Rusi earned this promotion from among a highly qualified field of candidates and finalists,” said GMA Executive Director Larry Hanson. “I am confident he will be a great addition to the team and a great asset to our member cities, our board and all our partners.”

Patel is a graduate of Dunwoody High School and received his Bachelor of Arts and juris doctorate from the University of Georgia.

Based in Atlanta, GMA is a voluntary, non-profit organization that provides legislative advocacy, educational, employee benefit and consulting services to its 538 member cities.

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Disclaimer

Contact: Marjorie Dykes, Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, 770-338-0051

email: marjorie@georgiamanufacturing.com

Supply Chain 101 educates elementary students about end-to-end supply chain opportunities

Atlanta, GA — How can communities better prepare students for success and ensure that businesses have the pipeline of skilled workers they need to thrive? Cities and states across the country are facing this dual challenge and a growing number are looking to educate the younger generation as a solution.

Thanks to Scott Luton, Executive Vice President of APICS Atlanta and dozens of outstanding volunteers, Supply Chain 101, is growing program that educates elementary students about the end-to-end Supply Chain world. This program plants seeds of awareness in elementary students about the job opportunities that are available in procurement, manufacturing, logistics & transportation, and engineering.

“Since November 2017, we led volunteers into 11 schools across Georgia, and in over 40 sessions, have engaged over 1,000 students about all the opportunities across the end-to-end Supply Chain,” said Luton. “And we’re just getting started. With exceptional partners like the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance and the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, we look forward to expanding the program in the months ahead and continuing to help tackle the skills gap.”

Supply Chain 101 centers around the lemonade supply chain. After giving examples of the automotive supply chain and the chocolate bar supply chain, the students focus in on the lemonade supply chain by being a part of 5 groups: the lemon farm team, the lemon juice factory, the sugar refinery plant, the transportation team and the warehouse team. Working together with their fellow classmates and volunteer Supply Chain professionals, they discuss how to make their customers happy, as well as what problems they might need to plan for.

“It is so neat to see a light bulb come on when children realize what it takes to bring a product, that is a familiar staple in their homes, from the farm to the table,” said Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA) and volunteer for Supply Chain 101. “The U.S. factory sector clearly needs an influx of young talent, and the educational system must convince its university graduates and younger students that there are rewards in a manufacturing career.”

Attracting and retaining qualified employees is a huge concern to Georgia’s manufacturers. According to the Manufacturing Institute, the U.S. is in the early stages of a period of dramatic population aging, and the manufacturing sector appears to be disproportionately experiencing the ramifications. Recent studies show the median age in manufacturing was 44.7 years versus 42.3 years for the total workforce.

ABOUT APICS & GMA: APICS Atlanta is an industry association that is dedicated to provided education and professional development in the end-to-end Supply Chain space. Serving Metro Atlanta for almost 60 years, APICS Atlanta offers certification programs, training tools and networking opportunities to increase Supply Chain effectiveness & success. The organization is affiliated with the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA) is a membership-based industry organization founded in 2008 to support Georgia’s manufacturing community. GMA provides monthly plant tours, educational sessions, tradeshows, and networking opportunities designed to make profitable business connections for its members. The Georgia Manufacturing Directory, Georgia Manufacturing Summit, Georgia Manufacturing Calendar, Manufacturing Success in Georgia, and BuyFromGeorgia.com are additional resources provided by GMA.

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Disclaimer

Contact: Micajah Sturdivant, MMI Hotel Group, 601-936-3666, email: msturdivant@mmihg.com

Home2Suites by Hilton receives Connie Award

St. Simons Island, GA – Home 2 Suites by Hilton St. Simons Island hotel has earned the Hilton’s highest honor, the Connie Award, given for customer service and guest experience ratings.

The award, named after Hilton founder Conrad Hilton, is given annually in two categories: hotels with fewer than 500 rooms and hotels with more than 500 rooms. The 88-suite Home 2 Suites by Hilton received the award in the 500-less room category at the Hilton Americas Leadership Conference last month.

The award is based on performance in several areas, including overall guest experience, guest service and quality assurance audits measuring cleanliness and property condition. Recognizing that the portfolio of Home2 Suites hotels as doubled since Home2 Suites by Hilton St Simons opened in 2017, the team on property is especially proud of their ability to remain at the top of the ranks.

Home 2 Suites by Hilton St. Simons Island offers all suite accommodations featuring fully-equipped kitchens and modular furniture allowing guests to personalize their room. The hotel also features easy access to technology with complimentary internet, inviting community spaces, and trademark Home2 Suites amenities such Spin2 Cycle, a combined laundry and fitness area, Home2 MKT for grab-and-go items, and the Inspired Table, a complimentary breakfast that includes more than 400 potential combinations. It also features an outdoor saline pool and outdoor grills for guests’ use.

Home2 Suites St. Simons Island participates in Hilton’s award-winning customer loyalty program, Hilton HHonors®. Hilton HHonors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to benefits including an exclusive member discount, free standard Wi-Fi, as well as digital amenities that are available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton HHonors app, where HHonors members can check-in, choose their room, and access their room using a Digital Key.

About MMI Hotel Group
Founded in 1956, MMI Hotel Group, formerly known as Mississippi Management, Inc. is a private, full-suite hotel management company focused principally on people. Currently serving team members based at full- and focused-service product across the Sun Belt, this third-generation company has established a tradition of successful partnerships grounded in good old-fashioned Southern hospitality. While MMI’s culture is a constant, the diversity of the MMI portfolio – franchised and independent, core and lifestyle brands – remains a competitive advantage for the company as best practices generate superior results. (www.MMIHotelGroup.com)

About Home2 Suites by Hilton
Home2 Suites by Hilton, one of the fastest-growing brands in the history of Hilton, is a mid-tier, all-suite, award-winning extended-stay hotel concept designed to offer stylish accommodations with flexible guest room configurations and inspired amenities for the cost-conscious guest. With a commitment to environmentally friendly products and hotel operations, Home2 Suites offers complimentary breakfast selections with hundreds of combinations; innovative and customizable guest room designs; laundry and fitness areas; complimentary WiFi; multiple outdoor spaces; 24-hour business centers; expansive community spaces; and pet-friendly environments. Home2 Suites by Hilton has more than 285 hotels, and more than 430 in the pipeline. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount that can’t be found anywhere else, free standard WiFi, and digital amenities like digital check-in with room selection and Digital Key (select locations), available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app. Visit www.home2suites.com or newsroom.hilton.com/home2suites for additional information.

About Hilton Hotels & Resorts
For nearly 100 years, Hilton Hotels & Resorts has set the benchmark for hospitality around the world, providing new product innovations and services to meet guests’ evolving needs. With more than 585 hotels across six continents, Hilton Hotels & Resorts properties are located in the world’s most sought-after destinations for guests who know that where they stay matters. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Begin your journey at www.hilton.com and learn more by visiting newsroom.hilton.com/hhr.

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Disclaimer

Contact: Whitney Brannen, 229-386-3470, email: whitney@gapeanuts.com

Georgia Peanut Commission kicks off summer break with Peanut Palooza May 24

TIFTON, Ga. – The Georgia Peanut Commission plans to host a kickoff to summer Peanut Palooza on Friday, May 24, 2019, from 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., at the Georgia Peanut Commission office in Tifton. The GPC office is located at 445 Fulwood Blvd. Tifton, GA 31794. Members of the public are invited to attend this free event.

The family_–friendly event will have everything from free boiled peanuts, fried peanut samples, Deb’s Curbside Cupcake truck and a special appearance from Mr. Peanut. The afternoon will also include a DJ, opportunities to plant your own peanut plant, prizes and giveaways, photo opportunities for kids to sit inside of a tractor, a bounce house and more.

In addition to the outside activities, the GPC office will be open for extended hours to give attendees the opportunity to visit the gift shop and take a tour of the building. The GPC building is one of the only energy efficient buildings in Tifton.

The Georgia Peanut Commission represents more than 4,700 peanut farm families in the state and conducts programs in the areas of research, promotion and education. For more information about the programs of the Georgia Peanut Commission, visit www.gapeanuts.com.

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Disclaimer

Contact: Amy Henderson, Georgia Municipal Association, 678-686-6226

email: ahenderson@gmanet.com

Partners aligned to improve Georgia’s struggling civic health

ATLANTA— Georgia’s civic health is still not strong, according to the second edition of the Georgia Civic Health Index (CHI), released today by Georgia Family Connection Partnership (GaFCP), the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA), and the National Conference on Citizenship (NCoC).

Civic health in the Peach state has declined in most of the 21 civic engagement measures that examine the way Georgians interact with each other, their communities, and in political life since the first report was published in 2013. During the past six years:

voting in local elections dropped from 29^th to 40^th,
volunteering dropped from 34^th to 44^th,
contacting a public official dropped from 34^th to 49^th,
group membership or participation dropped from 28^th to 49^th, and
donating to charitable or religious organizations dropped from 40^th to 47^th.

This matters, because research has linked civic health to economic resilience; workforce development; child development, adolescent well-being, mental health, and other public health outcomes; access to opportunity; community vitality; lower violent crime rates and youth delinquency; and reduced mortality.

“We’re taught that our democracy belongs to all of us, yet only some of us choose to belong to it, and for too long too many others have been excluded from our systems of government and civic life,” said Sterling Speirn, CEO of NCoC. “Enhancing civic life requires a broad-based alliance of public and private organizations—and individuals—to get involved. It also requires that we focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion. Declining civic participation rates tell us our democracy may be down, but it is certainly not out. The stakes are high and every day more and more people are rising to the challenge.”

Georgia is certainly not out, either. Some indicators from the 2019 report suggest promising opportunities for our state:

The frequency that Georgians provide food, housing, money, or help to friends or extended family matches the national average, ranking 29^th, with Georgia millennials engaging in this way at rates higher than both the state and national averages.
Georgia ranks 29^th for frequently talking to or spending time with people of different racial, ethnic, or cultural backgrounds.
Georgians post views about political, societal, or local issues on the internet or social media at a rate above the national average, ranking 13^th.

“Georgians of Latin descent are poised to help improve our state’s civic health crisis,” said Latino Community Fund Executive Director Gilda Pedraza. “Nationally, Latinxs are 14 times more likely to be entrepreneurs than the general population, and Latinxs in Georgia demonstrate high levels of optimism for the future. A third of the Hispanics in Georgia are in K-12, so we need to demonstrate to our younger generations the value of engaging in civic life and encourage them to invest and re-invest in their own communities as they grow up.”

Also encouraging, is that various aspects of local civic health appear to be strong. Data gathered from Bibb, Camden, Cook, Fayette, Stephens and Washington counties reported higher percentages of contact with family and friends than the state average. County-specific data also found higher percentages of volunteerism. These communities are beginning to develop targeted strategies to improve the areas that their local data revealed are lower, and momentum is building to address these issues at the city and county levels across the state.

“Georgia’s Cities are home to more than 43 percent of the state’s population, providing the opportunity to bring people together to foster better engagement in cities,” said GMA Executive Director Larry Hanson. “Cities host activities, festivals, and other events that bring people together to engage and interact at the local level. We’re going to take this report as a challenge to foster more connectivity among city residents. Being connected to each other is critical for our health, government, community, and family.”

Statewide organizations that serve every community in Georgia already are committed to helping reverse the declining trend in civic health. GaFCP and critical partners like GMA are ready to embed strategies to improve civic participation—informed by six years of data—in all 159 counties across the state.

“Local government, public and private organizations, the faith sector, and residents have vital roles in improving Georgia’s civic health, building locally to improve large-scale outcomes, said GaFCP Executive Director Gaye Smith. “Georgia has a lot of work to do, and with that in mind, GaFCP will continue to work with partners on civic engagement projects across the state—and provide communities with the data they need to improve their local civic health.”

Download the report and recommendations about how to help improve Georgia’s civic health.

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About Georgia Family Connection Partnership

Georgia Family Connection Partnership (GaFCP) is a public-private partnership created by the State of Georgia and investors from the private sector to assist communities in addressing the serious challenges facing children and families. GaFCP also serves as a resource to state agencies across Georgia that work to improve the conditions of children and families. Georgia KIDS COUNT provides policymakers and citizens with current data they need to make informed decisions about priorities, services, and resources that impact Georgia’s children, youth, families, and communities. For more information, visit gafcp.org.

About the Georgia Municipal Association

The Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) anticipates and influences the forces shaping Georgia’s cities and provides leadership, tools, and services that assist municipal governments in becoming more innovative, effective, and responsive. Created in 1933, GMA is the only state organization that represents municipal governments in Georgia. Based in Atlanta, GMA is a voluntary, nonprofit organization that provides legislative advocacy, educational, employee benefit, and technical consulting services to its members. GMA represents all 538 cities in Georgia. For more information, visit gmanet.com.

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Disclaimer

Contact: Amy Henderson, Georgia Municipal Association, 678-686-6226

email: ahenderson@gmanet.com

Spatial Engineering supports cities with its participation in Georgia Municipal Association

ATLANTA – The Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) announces that Spatial Engineering, Inc continues to demonstrate its commitment to Georgia’s 538 cities as a 2019 GMA Business Alliance Program participating company. The BAP connects companies with municipal leaders to share knowledge and expertise to strengthen Georgia’s cities and support the mission of GMA.

Spatial Engineering, Inc., offers complete spatial data management which includes planning, design and implementation, data collection and integration, database management, customized training, on-site support, and web and application development. Spatial Engineering’s newest initiative, RightSpot, provides affordable GIS data management and maintenance for cities, counties and utilities.

“Spatial Engineering is about spatial data which includes GIS, CADD, and other data based on location,” explained CEO Richard Truluck. “My career has been filled with polar opinions that GIS and CADD cannot mix, cannot work together, and cannot coexist. I argue differently. At Spatial Engineering, we use GIS and CADD technologies concurrently with no data conversion,” continued Truluck. “No data conversion equals no data loss. That is what separates Spatial Engineering from everyone else.”

“The participating companies in GMA’s Business Alliance Program provide our municipal members with additional resources and information to help them operate their cities in the best manner possible. They also support GMA’s ability to provide services for all member cities,” said GMA Executive Director Larry Hanson. “We value the commitment and expertise that Spatial Engineering and other companies bring to our cities and our organization.”

About GMA:

Based in Atlanta, GMA is a voluntary, non-profit organization that provides legislative advocacy, educational, employee benefit and consulting services to its 538 member cities.

About Spatial Engineering:

Founded in 2000 by CEO Richard Truluck, P.E., Spatial Engineering, Inc., is located in Rincon, Georgia, and comprised of highly talented engineering and technology professionals. Spatial delivers Geographic Information System (GIS) products covering numerous projects from single utility updates to local storm water data management to regional asset management. Spatial clients include local municipalities and the Department of Defense.

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Disclaimer

Contact: Marjorie Dykes, Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, 770-338-0051

email: marjorie@georgiamanufacturing.com

Georgia Manufacturing Alliance partners with Supply Chain Now Radio to launch “Today in Manufacturing” monthly radio show

Atlanta, GA – Georgia has grown into a leading global center for manufacturing and supply chain management due to a vital southeast geographic location and a robust infrastructure. Georgia is known as the epicenter for technology, talent, and best practices that have positioned us as the Number 1 state to do business for 6 years running. A new radio series, “Today in Manufacturing”, will provide a platform for thought leaders in the manufacturing industry that are willing to share their knowledge, resources, and processes with others to help them be successful.

“Manufacturing is such a critical component to the end-to-end Supply Chain. We are excited to be partnering with the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance to kick off our newest series on Supply Chain Now Radio,” said Scott Luton, Founder and Host of Supply Chain Now Radio. “It’s an honor to build on our current partnership with Jason Moss & the GMA to further serve the manufacturing industry by sharing best practices, thought leadership & other content by those making it happen in manufacturing.”

This new series is produced by Supply Chain Now Radio and the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. These monthly episodes will be focused on the manufacturing industry in the state of Georgia, the United States, and worldwide, and the impact it has on virtually every sector of business. The first episode featured Jason Maxwell, Vice President of Operations for KaMin LLC, and Holly Gotfredson, President of American Metalcraft. Listen to this episode via this link: http://supplychainnowradio.com/scnr-programs/today-in-manufacturing/

KaMin, LLC is a global leader in kaolin processing and has immense reserves of premium fine and ultrafine kaolin in Georgia and Brazil. They have pioneered unique processing methods and their fine particle clays are the most widely used worldwide in numerous coatings. Their products are used in diverse applications such as paint, plastics, rubber, adhesives, inks and paper coatings.

American Metalcraft is a woman-owned manufacturer that fabricates custom exterior/interior work from aluminum, steel, and stainless-steel products. They create custom architectural products for well-known national clients such as the Atlanta Braves, Mercedes Benz, and Suntrust Bank.

“We are excited to share the good news about Georgia manufacturing across the globe over Supply Chain Now Radio,” said Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. “During these monthly broadcasts, we will address the challenges and accomplishments of manufacturers and share best business practices to help others be more successful.”

About the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance:

The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA) is a membership-based industry organization founded in 2008 to support Georgia’s manufacturing community. GMA provides monthly plant tours, educational sessions, tradeshows, and unique networking opportunities designed to help make profitable business connections for its members. The Georgia Manufacturing Directory, Georgia Manufacturing Summit, BuyFromGA.com and Georgia Manufacturing Calendar are additional resources produced by GMA. To learn more about the organization, membership, and upcoming events, please call 770-338-0051 or visit their website https://www.georgiamanufacturingalliance.com/

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Disclaimer

Contact: Marjorie Dykes, Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, 770-338-0051

email: marjorie@georgiamanufacturing.com

First quarter review for Georgia Manufacturing Alliance shows continued success

Atlanta, GA – The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA) experienced continued growth in the 1^st Quarter of 2019 surpassing even the expectations of CEO and founder, Jason Moss. Georgia was named for the 6th consecutive year as the Number 1 state to do business. As the economy and the manufacturing sector continues to improve in the U.S., the manufacturing community in Georgia is reaping the benefits.

“Our first quarter has been an exciting ride as we have exceeded our goals for GMA,” said Moss. “We have launched several new initiatives including an historical coffee table book – Manufacturing Success in Georgia and the monthly “Today in Manufacturing” Radio Show.”

Some of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance’s 1^st Quarter highlights included:

MANUFACTURING SUCCESS IN GEORGIA: An Illustrated History coffee table book announced with HPN Publishing
Today in Manufacturing Monthly Radio Show launched in conjunction with Supply Chain NOW Radio
January Edition of the Georgia Manufacturing Directory produced

GA House of Representatives recognizes the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance with a Special Resolution
Addition of a Membership Director and Administrative Assistant
Addition of 60 new members with 330 member companies represented across the state
Fastenal, North America’s largest fastener distributor, joins the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance as an Annual Sponsor
23 plant tours, educational workshops, and networking events hosted so far this year
Press Coverage Received – Cobb Business Journal, Gwinnett Daily Post, Gainesville Times, Marietta Daily Journal, and Supply Chain NOW Radio

“As we reflect our 1^st Quarter of 2019, we are very thankful for everyone who partnered with us to bring about this success,” stated Mr. Moss. “Our main objective is to provide our manufacturers, suppliers, and service industries the resources they need for every area of their business. We are looking forward to this being our best year ever.”

ABOUT GMA: The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA) is a membership-based industry organization founded in 2008 to support Georgia’s manufacturing community. GMA provides monthly plant tours, educational sessions, tradeshows, and unique networking opportunities designed to help make profitable business connections for its members. The Georgia Manufacturing Directory, Georgia Manufacturing Summit, Georgia Manufacturing Calendar, and Buy From Georgia website are additional resources produced by GMA. To learn more about the organization, membership, and upcoming events, please call 770-338-0051 or visit their website https://www.georgiamanufacturingalliance.com/

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Disclaimer

Contact: Amy Henderson, Georgia Municipal Association, 678-686-6226

email: ahenderson@gmanet.com

New South Construction Co. supports cities with its participation in Georgia Municipal Association

ATLANTA – The Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) announces that New South Construction Company continues to demonstrate its commitment to Georgia’s 538 cities as a 2019 GMA Business Alliance Program participating company. The BAP connects companies with municipal leaders to share knowledge and expertise to strengthen Georgia’s cities and support the mission of GMA.

New South Construction is a well-respected construction management firm known for unparalleled preconstruction services and delivering high-quality construction. In addition to corporate clients, their Local Government portfolio includes; courts, city halls, jails/public safety, parks, aquatic centers, city centers, theatres and sporting facilities.

“Local government continues to be one of New South Construction’s core markets,” said New South Vice President Rob Ragan. “Throughout our support of GMA over the last decade, we have been able to work with cities on the front end of their respective projects to assess the market and costs. We are grateful for the Business Alliance Program and the relationships we have established as a result of our participation.”

“The participating companies in GMA’s Business Alliance Program provide our municipal members with additional resources and information to help them operate their cities in the best manner possible. They also support GMA’s ability to provide services for all member cities,” said GMA Executive Director Larry Hanson. “We value the commitment and expertise that New South Construction and other companies bring to our cities and our organization.”

About GMA:

Based in Atlanta, GMA is a voluntary, non-profit organization that provides legislative advocacy, educational, employee benefit and consulting services to its 538 member cities.

About New South Construction:

New South Construction Company is a general contracting firm founded in 1990 and headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Serving the Southeast, New South provides construction services to a wide range of clients in various markets including: aviation, education, government, housing, office, industrial and special projects. New South consistently leads the industry in technological advances, which makes projects more efficient and ultimately leads to a better built environment. For more information, please visit http://www.newsouthconstruction.com.

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Disclaimer

Contact: Andy Lucas, Georgia Farm Bureau, 478-474-0679, ext. 5237, email: ralucas@gfb.org

Georgia Farm Bureau thanks hurricane relief fund donors

Macon, Georgia – Georgia Farm Bureau is pleased to thank the many sponsors who donated to the Hurricane Michael Relief Fund for farmers.

On Wednesday, October 10, 2018, the state of Georgia was hit by Hurricane Michael, and many farmers were devastated. The impact experienced by agriculture in Georgia, the state’s largest industry, is over $2.5 billion.

“For so many farmers, months and years of hard work were undone in a matter of moments, courtesy of Hurricane Michael. For some, their livelihoods are gone, and their sense of security destroyed. Many of our communities, especially in Southwest Georgia, are reeling,” said GFB President Gerald Long.

A relief fund was set up through the Georgia Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture to collect money for farmers affected by the loss. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit organization and all contributions to this fund are tax deductible.

Agriculture producers with agriculture-related losses or expenses resulting from Hurricane Michael qualified for assistance from the fund. Eligibility was determined by counties identified by the USDA as primary natural disaster areas. The total losses experienced by those that applied for assistance exceeded $126 million.

“Because of the outpouring of support from individuals and companies, the Hurricane Michael Relief Fund was able to generate a total of $663,715.68 and every penny of it has been disbursed to Georgia farmers who submitted an application,” said Long. “We are grateful for the donors who made it possible to help our state’s farmers through this fund.”

For a complete list of donors, please visit GFB.Ag/HurricaneReliefDonors.

About Georgia Farm Bureau

Georgia Farm Bureau is a membership-based nonprofit dedicated to providing a face and voice for farmers and families involved in agriculture. With more than 270,000 members and 158 offices across Georgia, it is the state’s largest farm organization. GFB offers leadership and assistance, farm product promotion, and legislative representation to ensure Georgia’s farming future.

Becoming a Georgia Farm Bureau member helps support local farmers and ensures Georgians continue to have access to locally grown, high-quality food. For more information or to join today, visit www.gfb.org.

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Disclaimer

Contact: Marjorie Dykes, Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, 770-338-0051

email: marjorie@georgiamanufacturing.com

Georgia Manufacturing Alliance joins forces with HPN Books to publish ‘Manufacturing Success in Georgia: An Illustrated History’

Atlanta, GA – HPN Books has partnered with the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance to publish the first ever historical presentation of MANUFACTURING SUCCESS IN GEORGIA: An Illustrated History. For over 30 years, HPN Books has produced limited edition, photography-rich coffee table books that focus on promoting the unique heritage and history of hundreds of communities, cities, regions and industry groups across the United States.

MANUFACTURING SUCCESS IN GEORGIA: An Illustrated History will be an account of the rich history of Georgia’s manufacturing community packaged in a professionally-produced, large-format, heavily illustrated work co-authored by Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, along with Charlie Post, President of TSI Solutions.

“As the founder and CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, I am in daily contact with manufacturing leaders throughout Georgia,” said Moss. “With over 10,000 manufacturing facilities in our state, there is a powerful story behind how we became the Southeast’s economic hub.”

MANUFACTURING SUCCESS IN GEORGIA: An Illustrated History will focus on the characters and events that have shaped manufacturing in Georgia and created both jobs and prosperity for the Peach State. It will tell about making products in Georgia, from the earliest days of utilizing Georgia cotton for textile production, to today’s booming carpet industry, to the global impact of leading companies like Coca-Cola and Gulfstream.

Additionally, this colorful, coffee table-type book will include over 100 period photographs, maps and paintings. It will be a great resource to promote Georgia’s dynamic economy and manufacturing industry. The book will be accessible in libraries and bookstores statewide as well as from online sources such as Amazon and will be available to organizations involved in economic development.

“I am very excited to work on this project and to tell the incredible stories of the people, factories, and processes that make manufacturing great in Georgia,” said Post. “Our state has a fascinating manufacturing history and I am looking forward to bringing these stories to life.”

To learn more about MANUFACTURING SUCCESS IN GEORGIA: An Illustrated History visit: https://www.georgiamanufacturingalliance.com/book

About the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance:

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