Press Releases
Contact: Joy Crosby, Georgia Peanut Commission, 229-386-3690
Celebrate March — National Peanut Month
The Georgia peanut industry joins together to celebrate National Peanut Month in March
and donate peanut butter to the Atlanta Community Food Bank
TIFTON, Georgia – March is National Peanut Month, a time to celebrate one of America’s favorite foods! The Georgia peanut industry kicked off the celebration by hosting the 2019 Georgia PB&J Day at the Georgia State Capitol in Atlanta, Georgia. During the event, the Georgia Peanut Commission and Peanut Proud donated 14,400 jars of peanut butter to the Atlanta Community Food Bank.
Peanuts and peanut butter were promoted during the event by industry partners serving grilled and regular PB&Js, country-fried peanuts, peanut candy and more. Governor Brian Kemp presented a proclamation recognizing March as National Peanut Month while Sen. John Wilkinson, chairman of the Senate Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee, and Rep. Tom McCall, chairman of the House Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee presented resolutions recognizing the importance of Georgia’s peanut industry.
“Peanuts are Georgia’s official state crop, and the state boasts the largest share of peanut production in the U.S. at nearly 50 percent for the 2018 crop,” says Armond Morris, chairman of the Georgia Peanut Commission. “Georgia’s 4,500 peanut farmers contribute approximately $2 billion annually to the state and local economy.”
Sponsors and exhibitors include the Georgia Peanut Commission, National Peanut Buying Points Association, Kroger, Atlanta Community Food Bank, Georgia Agribusiness Council, Georgia Farm Bureau, Georgia Federal State Inspection Service, Georgia Grinders, Hardy Farms, McKee Foods, Peanut Butter & Co., Peanut Proud, Premium Peanut, Synder’s-Lance, The J.M. Smucker Company, The Peanut Institute, The Hershey Company, University of Georgia Peanut Team.
As part of the celebration, peanut butter valued at $14,400, was presented to the Atlanta Community Food Bank. The Atlanta Community Food Bank provides food and grocery products to more than 600 nonprofit partner agencies with hunger relief programs throughout 29 counties in metro Atlanta and north Georgia. According to Ben Burgess, food sourcing specialist with the food bank, the need for food assistance is not going away.
“A recent study of our service area showed that 80,600 people are served each week by programs supported through the Atlanta Community Food Bank. Peanut butter is a very nutritious and important product to those clients because it has a stable shelf life,” Burgess says. “One jar can make several meals for a family or individual in need. This donation will help the nearly 20 percent of Georgian residents and the one in four children who are food insecure in the state.”
Coincidentally, March is National Nutrition Month – a great time to recognize the nutritional value of peanuts. One serving of peanuts is a good source of protein, vitamin E, niacin, folate, phosphorus and magnesium. Peanuts are naturally cholesterol-free and low in saturated fat.
For additional details and photos from the 2019 PB&J Day, visit the Georgia Peanut Commission website at gapeanuts.com.
About The Atlanta Community Food Bank
The Atlanta Community Food Bank works to end hunger with the food, people and big ideas needed to ensure our neighbors have the nourishment to lead healthy and productive lives. Far too many people in our own community experience hunger every day, including children, seniors and working families.
Through more than 600 nonprofit partners, we help more than 755,000 people get healthy food every year. Our goal is that, by 2025, all hungry people across metro Atlanta and North Georgia will have access to the nutritious meals they need when they need them. It takes the power of our whole community to make that possible. Join us at ACFB.org.
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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: Marjorie Dykes, Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, 770-338-0051
Tours, workshops and network highlight Georgia Manufacturing Alliance calendar
Atlanta, GA – The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA) produces events in Georgia to help support manufacturers in the state. Their March calendar includes events from Atlanta, to Hogansville, to Macon, and to Savannah. These events help the manufacturing community learn best business practices and see world class manufacturing in action. GMA Event Calendar: https://www.georgiamanufacturingalliance.com/events/
Networking Events • March 1 & 5 • Alpharetta, Cobb & Gwinnett
These monthly sessions help GMA service providers and manufacturers Stay up-to-date with what is happening in the Manufacturing Community and network with other industry professionals.
Sales Navigator Lunch & Learn • March 7 • Peachtree Corners
This hands-on workshop will give you a 10-step checklist of activities to help you use LinkedIn Sales Navigator and some other automated tools to drive leads and set appointments. Led by Todd McCarty, who has over 25 years of marketing and sales experience working for some of Atlanta’s largest companies like BellSouth, Cox Enterprises and NCR.
Mando America Plant Tour • March 19 • Hogansville
Mando manufacturers world-class brake systems for domestic and global automobile manufacturers such as BMW, Chrysler, FIAT, Ford, GM, KIA, and Volkswagon. Tour attendees will see the cutting-edge technology and high-end manufacturing processes that are used to produce Caliper and Automatic brake systems at their 445,000 sq. ft. facility.
Lummus Corporation Plant Tour • March 21 • Savannah
Lummus Corporation is the world’s leading full-line supplier, manufacturer, and designer of machinery and replacement parts for the cotton ginning industry and synthetic fiber industry. These products help processors around the world clean, size, separate and recover a variety of products including cottonseed, sunflower seeds, peanuts, and other oilseeds.
KaMin Plant & Quarry Tour • March 22 • Macon (Morning Tour)
KaMin, LLC is a global leader in kaolin processing and has immense reserves in Georgia. They have pioneered unique processing methods and their fine particle clays are used in industrial architectural applications such as paint, plastics, rubber, adhesives, and inks and to coat premier paper lines. Attendees will have a behind scenes tour of their plant, quarry, testing facilities, and Research & Development labs.
LinkedIn Training Lunch & Learn • March 22 • Macon (After the KaMin Tour)
Do you want to learn LinkedIn? REALLY learn LinkedIn? Don’t miss this TWO HOUR ‘Hands-On’ Workshop led by “The LinkedIn Guy” Gregg Burkhalter. Topics will include: What makes a solid LinkedIn profile? How to find your way around LinkedIn’s NEW desktop interface and mobile app. How to use LinkedIn to build relationships and grow your brand.
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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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: Marjorie Dykes, Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, 770-338-0051
Attracting and retaining workers a huge concern for Georgia manufacturers
Gainesville, GA – 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. In 2012, the median age in manufacturing was 44.7 years versus 42.3 years for the total workforce.
The U.S. factory sector clearly needs an influx of young talent. In addition to focusing on educational needs, the nation must convince its university graduates and younger workers that there are rewards in a manufacturing career. Tim McDonald, Lanier Tech’s Executive VP of Economic Development, shared this piece of advice to parents. “You can send your child to a technical college,” McDonald said. “With financial aid, it is potentially free. They’ll graduate with little or no debt in two years and a near 100 percent job placement rate in a career that will pay them enough to move out of your basement.”
The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA) addressed these concerns at a Workforce Development Showcase Panel Discussion and tour at Lanier Technical College on February 20th. With a filled to capacity crowd of over 60 manufacturing professionals, the Panel shared what is working in the Hall County area for apprenticeships, workforce-based learning programs, and the resources that are available. Each speaker shared a different perspective regarding workforce challenges and the specific programs that have been developed with the manufacturers’ concerns in mind.
Panel participates included: Shelly Davis, VP of Existing Industry for the Hall County Chamber; Mike McGraw, Managing Member of Ranger Manufacturing; Tim McDonald, EVP of Economic Development for Lanier Tech; Sherree Moss, Human Resource Manager of ZF Industries; and Greg Vitek, Workforce Development at Lanier Tech.
The moderator of the event, Mike McGraw, shared his views as a Strategic Partner of PrideStaff, Managing Member of Ranger Manufacturing, and as the NE Chapter Director for the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. “With the pulse on a variety of industries, we realize that we cannot sit back and think that we are going to find the people,” said McGraw. “We must take an active role to recruit, groom, and build the market of qualified employees. We look forward to collaborating on a future event with GMA to further highlight Lanier Tech and Northeast Georgia as leading the way for workforce needs in our community.”
The panel discussion was followed by a tour of Lanier Tech’s Kubota Advanced Manufacturing Building. Lanier Tech’s 335,000-square-foot campus is the first newly constructed technical college campus in the history of technical education in Georgia. Attendees toured the Kubota Advanced Manufacturing Campus which features 8 labs where students can study a variety of fields including: Air Conditioning (HVAC), Automotive Collision Repair, CNC Machine Tooling, Diesel Technology, Industrial Systems, Marine Technology, Motor Sports Vehicle Technology, and Welding and Joining.
During the tour, attendees also met Chase Sweda, a welding and joining student at Lanier Technical College from Hall County. He was named as the college’s winner of the Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL). GOAL is a statewide program of the Technical College System of Georgia and honors excellence in academics and leadership among the state’s technical college students.
The next Workforce Development Showcase for GMA will be a tour of GA QuickStart on April 25th in Atlanta. Georgia Quick Start is the nation’s #1-ranked training program available at no cost to qualified companies. GA Quick Start has been in existence since 1967 and has trained over 1,200,000 employees.
Attendees will gain an understanding on how Quick Start can assist new, expanding, and existing industries to train their employees. This overview will be followed by a behind the scenes tour of their on-site labs which showcase the methodologies used in training such as Advanced Manufacturing, E-Learning, Media Production, and Animation. For more info and to register: https://www.georgiamanufacturingalliance.com/events/quick-start-workforce-development-showcase—atlanta
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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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: Nora Sullivan, Georgia Auctioneers Association, 855-422-0008
email: info@georgiaauctioneers.org
William Donald Patten inducted in Georgia Auctioneer Hall of Fame
February 22, 2019 – William Donald Patten of Lakeland, GA was the most recent inductee to Georgia’s Auctioneer Hall of Fame at our January, 2019 Winter Conference in Cordele, GA. The “Georgia Hall of Fame” honors famous or illustrates individuals chosen by the living members of the Georgia Auctioneers Hall of Fame. Mr. Donald Patten was selected because of his excellent qualities of honesty, high ethical standards, willingness to share and teach others.
Friends, family and business acquaintances may have heard Donald verbalize his principals as follows: “Always trade fair,” “Your word is your bond,” and “An honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay.”
Mr. Patten attended Norman College, Valdosta State College and Piedmont College, before receiving a B.S. in Business Administration and Management. He a kept a “Newer Ending Effort” in regard to his education by attending every possible seminar, to include CAI. He has served as past President of the Georgia Grain Dealers Association and the local Lion’s Club. Also, has served as Chairman of the Flatlanders Fall Frolic Committee and a member off the City of Lakeland City Counsel and Lanier County Zoning Board. View a full list of the Georgia Auctioneers Hall of Fame members online at http://GeorgiaAuctioneers.org.
About Georgia Auctioneers Association: The Georgia Auctioneers Association is a strong non-profit trade association of professionals who have organized to promote and advance the auction profession. Our Board of Directors meets monthly to discuss issues affecting the auction industry, plan educational and networking opportunities. Our membership includes Auctioneers from multiple states, specializing in a variety of areas including real estate, automobile, retail / personal property, livestock and more.
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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: Taylor Sills, Georgia Cotton Commission, 478-988-4235
Georgia Cotton Commission disappointed by inaction on Michael relief
The Georgia Cotton Commission is disappointed by a lack of response to the aftermath left by Hurricane Michael from our partners in the federal government. Over four months after the storm wreaked havoc to communities in southwest, central, and east Georgia, farms and agribusinesses are left with more questions than answers on federal assistance.
GCC Chairman Bart Davis, a cotton farmer from Colquitt County, said “it’s frustrating to meet with our leaders face to face and be promised assistance and nothing come in return,” noting that farmers across the state hope to start planting crops for 2019 in the coming weeks, and that financial institutions will be hesitant to provide operating loans to some without the promise of disaster assistance.
Georgia’s cotton crop has a farm gate value of roughly $1 billion and provides an economic impact significantly higher than that. “Our small towns will continue to suffer if something doesn’t change. The business that farmers provide communities by buying equipment, seed, and chemicals as well as paying employees are what send economic ripples through rural communities that everyone feels, and all of that is in danger,” Davis added.
“The simple fact of the matter is that current safety net procedures and crop insurance are not designed for severe losses such as the over $600 million that Hurricane Michael took from the 2018 Georgia cotton crop,” Davis continued.
Davis concluded by saying, “we thank our congressional leadership for what they have done to this point, but urge them and leaders in the executive branch to come together to help those affected by Hurricane Michael.”
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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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: Marjorie Dykes, Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, 770-338-0051
11th anniversary for Georgia Manufacturing Alliance celebrated on Feb. 7
Atlanta, GA — The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA) celebrated its 11th Year Anniversary on February 7th at the 1818 Club in Duluth. Over 100 industry leaders from around the state came to show support for GMA and its founder Jason Moss. A special resolution from the GA House of Representatives recognized the accomplishments of Mr. Moss and his organization citing that GMA provides a unique platform for our state’s manufacturing leaders to share best practices and create strategic partnerships.
“The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance began in 2008 with a core group of 15 manufacturers and service providers that saw a need to find local resources for their industry”, said Mr. Moss “They wanted to buy, sell and trade locally, but did not have the platform or resources to make the connections. Our organization is now 325 members strong representing over 70,000 employees with six chapters across the state.”
Mr. Moss shared some of the GMA Highlights from 2018 which included:
- Ribbon Cutting at new GMA headquarters
- 100 new members and 5 new annual sponsors – now reaching over 325 members statewide
- 18 Joint Industry Association of Georgia (JIAG) partners
- 120 plant tours, educational workshops, and networking events throughout the state
- BuyFromGA.com website developed to promote consumer-based products
- Over 800 attendees at the Georgia Manufacturing Summit with keynotes from Gulfstream President, Mark Burns and Thrush Aircraft Vice President, Eric Rojek
- 4th Annual People of Manufacturing Awards
- 2 Editions of the Georgia Manufacturing Directory – The #1 resource guide for the manufacturing community
- National and International Press Coverage – Atlanta Business Chronicle, Business RadioX, Cobb Business Journal, Gwinnett Daily Post, IndustrialSage, Marietta Daily Journal, Savannah News, Supply Chain NOW Radio, and Welding Journal along with many other media sources
Part of the proceeds from GMA’s 10th Year Anniversary went to support the Veterans Empowerment Organization (VEO) which provides housing and resources for veterans in transition. VEO is GMA’s charity of choice for 2019 and Dan Valentine, VEO Ambassador shared their vision for 2019. VEO’s Self-Sufficiency Model which focuses on taking “Invisible Veterans” off the streets of our cities and placing them into a safety net of support that provides immediate and long-term housing, skills training, and work opportunities.
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 BuyFromGa.com 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
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: Marjorie Dykes, Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, 770-338-0051
Georgia Manufacturing Alliance recognized at Capitol with special House resolution
Atlanta, GA – The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA) was recognized with a special Resolution at the Georgia House of Representatives on February 6th at the State Capitol. The House Members commended GMA for fostering economic growth and supporting Georgia’s manufacturing industry.
“GMA’s value to the manufacturers of Georgia becomes exponential because of the impact it has on employees, employers, communities, and consumers,” said Representative Bill Werkheiser, Chairman of the House, Industry and Labor. “When best practices and ideas are shared among manufacturers, changes in processes can have economic impacts that are repeated year after year.”
Founded in 2008 by Jason Moss, the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance was established to provide resources to help support and promote manufacturers, educate their employees, and form strategic alliances that will help their businesses. They publish bi-annually the Georgia Manufacturing Directory which is designed to help source local manufacturers, suppliers and service providers to the industry. Their BuyFromGA.com website was developed to help consumers identify and buy locally made goods manufactured in Georgia.
GMA has 6 chapters representing 320 corporate members with over 70,000 employees. In 2018 alone, the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance hosted over 120 events including plant tours, workforce development showcases, educational workshops, networking event and their annual Georgia Manufacturing Summit. These events allow their members to share best business practices, make profitable business connections, and see world class manufacturing in action.
We are honored to have been presented this Resolution and to address the members of the House of Representatives,” said Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. “Our Mission is to serve the manufacturers through the resources we provide. Although our organization does not have an active role in lobbying for legislation, we recognize the importance of fostering a good relationship between the manufacturing community and government. We appreciate Representative Werkheiser’s involvement with our organization and his commitment to supporting the manufacturers in Georgia.”
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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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: Mark Smith Jr., Smith Communications, 706-454-1290
Author Alice Walker to visit hometown of Eatonton for celebration of her 75th birthday
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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: Lauren Goble, Georgia Farm Bureau, 478-474-0679, ext. 5135
National Ag in the Classroom to spread agricultural literacy message to more than 400 educators at national conference
Macon, GA – More than 400 educators from around the country will learn how to use agricultural concepts to teach reading, writing, math, science, social studies and more at the National Agriculture in the Classroom Organization’s (NAITCO) National Conference called ‘AgVenture in the Natural State’ to be held June 19-21 at the Little Rock Marriott.
NAITCO and the Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Agriculture in the Classroom program will hold three days of workshops showing kindergarten through 12th grade teachers how to use agriculture to teach core subjects. It received partial funding for the conference from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute for Food and Agriculture (USDA/NIFA)
In addition, conference participants will go on traveling workshops of nearby agribusinesses and research facilities to learn about beef, poultry and rice production, worldwide hunger at Heifer International, and other agricultural issues at these and other stops. They also will hear from keynote speakers such as Temple Grandin, world renowned animal behaviorist and autism spokesperson, and Dr. Marty Matlock, executive director of the University of Arkansas Resiliency Center and Professor of Ecological Engineering in the Biological and Agricultural Engineering Department.
Early registration for the conference is $435 until April 15. After that, it goes up to $485. To register, please visit https://naitcconference.usu.edu/Register.cfm. The conference will be held at the Little Rock Marriott. To reserve a hotel room, please visit https://naitcconference.usu.edu/Venue.cfm.
CHS Foundation is once again offering scholarships to K-12 teachers who would like to attend the conference. The scholarship covers the cost of early registration of $435. To apply for a CHS Foundation Scholarship, please visit https://agclassroom.org/teacher/grants.cfm.
The conference will honor national teacher winners and a national Agriculture Advocate winner for the innovative ways they use agriculture to teach students about this important industry.
“We are excited to host this year’s National Agriculture in the Classroom National Conference in Arkansas,” says Will Fett, president of NAITCO and executive director of the Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation. “The national conference will use workshops, awards, and tours of farms to show educators how effectively agriculture can be used in formal classroom instruction.”
NAITCO and Nutrien, Ltd. will announce new developments with its online games called ‘Journey 2050’ and ‘Farmers 2050,’ which allow players to become virtual farmers who make day-to-day decisions about what to plant, how to care for it and how to sustainably grow food.
Of the more than 400 conference participants expected to register, about half are teachers from around the country, many of whom received scholarships provided by CHS Foundation, Inc. to cover their conference registrations. In addition, American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture will honor at the conference teachers and agriculture industry educators for using agriculture as an effective teaching tool as part of its White-Reinhardt Fund for Education program.
A big ‘thank you’ goes to national conference sponsors USDA/NIFA, CHS Foundation Inc., Nutrien Ltd., American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture, American Egg Board, Ardent Mills, Corteva Agriscience, Farm Credit, Monsanto, Ford Motor Co., Iowa Farm Bureau, Protect the Harvest, Riceland Foods Foundation, Tyson Foods, among others. Their support helps keep registration costs low so more teachers can attend.
NAITCO is a non-profit organization representing Agriculture in the Classroom programs in 50 states and the District of Columbia. Its mission is to educate K-12 teachers and students about the importance of agriculture by providing them with educational resources, grant opportunities, awards programs and a national conference that demonstrate how agriculture can be used to effectively teach core subject areas.
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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: Lauren Goble, Georgia Farm Bureau, 478-474-0679, ext. 5135
CHS scholarships available for teachers who want to attend national Ag in the Classroom national conference
Macon, GA – CHS Foundation is once again offering scholarships to help K-12 teachers attend the National Agriculture in the Classroom National Conference ‘AgVenture in the Natural State’ June 19-21 in Little Rock, AR.
The scholarship covers early registration to the conference of $435. Teachers are responsible for covering their other travel costs to attend the conference. To apply for a scholarship, teachers must fill out an application explaining how attending the conference will help them advance agricultural literacy in their classrooms.
To apply, please visit the online application at https://www.agclassroom.org/teacher/grants.cfm. The deadline for applications is March 1.
NAITCO is a non-profit organization made up of Agriculture in the Classroom programs in 50 states including the District of Columbia and six territories. Its mission is to educate teachers and students in kindergarten through 12th grade about the importance of agriculture by incorporating agricultural concepts into classroom instruction.
The CHS Foundation is funded by charitable gifts from CHS Inc., the nation’s leading farmer-owned cooperative and a global energy, grains and foods company. The CHS Foundation is focused on developing a new generation of agriculture leaders. It is achieving its goals through these strategic initiatives: advancing innovation in cooperative education, cultivating opportunity through university partnerships, growing high-impact youth leadership programs and accelerating potential for careers in ag. Together with its signature partners, it develops agricultural leaders for life. For more information on our programs go to www.chsinc.com/stewardship
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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: Taylor Sills, Georgia Cotton Commission, 478-988-4235
2018 Georgia Quality Cotton Award winners announced
The 2018 Georgia Quality Cotton Awards were presented at the Georgia Cotton Commission’s 12th Annual Meeting and UGA Cotton Production Workshop on January 30, 2019 in Tifton, GA. The awards are co-sponsored by the Georgia Cotton Commission and BASF, and administered by the University of Georgia Cotton Team.
The purpose of the awards are to recognize producers and ginners of high-quality cotton fiber and to identify their general management practices for the benefit of other growers. The producers and their gins received a plaque and the winning producers received a $500 cash award. The UGA County Extension Agent for each winner was also recognized as they work closely with the farmers during the growing season.
The awards are given in each of these three cotton acreage categories: 1) less than 500 acres, 2) 500 to 1,000 acres, and 3) greater than 1,000 acres within the four regions of the state. Winners in these categories are determined by the loan value and premiums of their cotton. The winners’ excellent achievements are due largely to their management practices and expertise. The sponsors of this program congratulate all of the following winners:
Region 1
- Less than 500 acres
- Grower – Robert Rawlins, Turner County
- Ginner – Sconyers Gin and Warehouse, Sycamore
- UGA Extension Agent – Will Gay
- 500-1000 acres
- Grower – Chad Hawkins, Wilcox County
- Ginner – Arabi Gin Company
- UGA Extension Agent – Andrew Sawyer
- 1000+ acres
- Grower – Lancaster Farms, Pulaski County
- Ginner – Heart of Georgia Peanut & Gin, Hawkinsville
- UGA Extension Agent – Jay Porter
Region 2
- Less than 500 acres
- Grower – Tucker Cobb, Washington County
- Ginner – Midville Warehouse, Inc.
- UGA Extension Agent – Brent Allen
- 500-1000 acres
- Grower – Ed Wilson Farms, Jenkins County
- Ginner – Midville Warehouse, Inc.
- UGA Extension Agent – Jason Mallard
- 1000+ acres
- Grower – Dean Johnson
- Ginner – Bryant’s Gin, Bartow
- UGA Extension Agents – Katie Burch and Pamela Sapp
Region 3
- Less than 500 acres
- Grower – Mike Lindsey, Cook County
- Ginner – BCT Gin Co., Inc., Quitman
- UGA Extension Agent – Tucker Price
- 500-1000 acres
- Grower – Branch and Branch Farms, Tift County
- Ginner – Omega Gin Company
- UGA Extension Agents – Scott Carlson and Justin Hand
- 1000+ acres
- Grower – Michael York, Brooks County
- Ginner – BCT Gin Co., Inc., Quitman
- UGA Extension Agents – Stephanie Hollifiend and Michasia Dowdy
Region 4
- Less than 500 acres
- Grower – Clifford Dollar, III, Decatur County
- Ginner – Sowega Cotton Gin & Warehouse, LLC, Climax
- UGA Extension Agent – Nan Bostick
- 500-1000 acres
- Grower – Andy Sparrow, Seminole County
- Ginner – Clover Leaf Gin, Donalsonville
- UGA Extension Agent – Cody Powell
- 1000+ acres
- Grower – RBF & M+S Roberts Farms, LLC, Worth County
- Ginner – Worth Gin, Sylvester
- UGA Extension Agent – Bryce Sutherland
The final award given was the overall Best Cotton Award. This was awarded to the Georgia cotton producer with highest loan value and premium. The 2017 Best Cotton Award went to Mike Lindsey with a loan value of 56.14 cents/lb and a premium of 4.14 cents/lb.
For a full photo album of the winners, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/GeorgiaCottonCommission.
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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: Marjorie Dykes, Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, 770-338-0051
Workforce Development Showcase, plant tours and 11th anniversary party planned for Georgia Manufacturing Alliance
Atlanta, GA — The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance has become one of the fastest growing industry associations in Georgia due in large part to the amount and variety of events they host across the state. They hosted 120 events in 2018 and their February Calendar includes Plant Tours, A Workforce Development Showcase, and Networking & Social Events that allow the manufacturing community to learn best business practices, build strategic alliances, and see world class manufacturing in action. To learn more about these events, visit https://www.georgiamanufacturingalliance.com/events/
Networking Events • February 1 & 5 • Alpharetta, Cobb & Gwinnett
These monthly sessions help GMA service providers and manufacturers connect and expand their referral network. Stay up-to-date with what is happening in the Manufacturing Community and network with other industry professionals.
GMA 11th Anniversary Party & Member Orientation • February 7 • Duluth
Help us celebrate the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance’s 11th Anniversary and learn how to best utilize your GMA membership at this fun event that mixes business with pleasure. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drinks at The 1818 Club which is the premiere meeting place atop the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce Building. Attire is business casual for a night of fellowship, food, and new connections to kick off 2019!
UPS SMART Hub Tour • February 14 • Atlanta
Tour participants will see the new 1.2M sq. ft. high-speed processing facility and its ability to reduce time-in-transit and enhance flexibility within UPSs efficient SMART hub-and-spoke network. The Atlanta hub can process approximately 100,000 parcels per hour via a highly orchestrated series of conveyors, chutes, belts and ramps, into waiting trailers for transfer to another UPS location, or into package delivery vehicles.
Workforce Development & Kubota Manufacturing Building Tour • February 20 • Gainesville
Learn what is working for Workforce Development in the Hall County area for manufacturers. An expert panel will highlight the resources that are being used to develop skilled talent during this period of low unemployment. Case Studies from large and small businesses will address the issues and solutions and will highlight the small business apprenticeship program that has been developed by Lanier Tech. This panel discussion will be followed by a tour of the NEW Kubota Advanced Manufacturing Building on the Lanier Tech Campus.
YANMAR America Plant Tour • February 28 • Adairsville
Their 500,000 sq. ft. corporate facility in Adairsville focuses on the final assembly for YANMAR tractors and also includes warehousing space used for parts, industrial engines, agriculture and construction equipment sales and service. They employ over 200 associates and their management team will share the behind the scenes processes, their unique history, and some of the emerging technologies for 2019 and beyond.
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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: Marjorie Dykes, Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, 770-338-0051
Fastenal joins Georgia Manufacturing Alliance as an innovator sponsor
Atlanta, GA – The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance had a banner year in 2018 and continues to expand its reach by adding new members and sponsors in the first quarter of 2019. Fastenal, North America’s largest fastener distributor and an efficient single source for 30 product categories, has come onboard as an Innovator Sponsor and will be a valuable resource in providing products for the OEM (original equipment manufacturer), MRO (maintenance, repair, and operations), and construction industries.
Supported by the company’s global sourcing and logistics resources, each of Fastenal’s 56 Georgia branch locations and 27 Georgia onsite customer locations tailors its inventory and service to meet the unique needs of local customers. Fastenal’s product offering is complemented by a spectrum of services, specialists and solutions, including custom manufacturing; various industrial services; expert consultants in the areas of engineering, Lean Six Sigma, safety, and metalworking; and a suite of supply chain technology, including the world’s most widely used industrial vending program.
“Fastenal has an acute focus on innovative world class supply chain and an ever-present desire to better understand the needs of our manufacturing partners in Georgia,” said Mike Phillips, Regional Sales Director. “We are very excited to partner with the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance community.”
On April 9th, Fastenal will host the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance for a tour of their 200,000 sq. ft. distribution and warehouse facility in Atlanta. Attendees will get a behind the scenes look into their Distribution Center and learn how Fastenal has grown 600% over 15 years in this facility through a $10 million investment in distribution automation technology.
Also on April 9th , they will provide an Educational Lunch and Learn on Safety in the Workplace, which will explore:
- Who/What is OSHA
- OSHA’s top 10 most cited violations
- General safety in the workplace (PPE, respiratory, signage, first aid)
For more info about these upcoming events, visit https://www.georgiamanufacturingalliance.com/events/
“Fastenal provides a much-needed resource by providing companies with the fasteners, tools, and supplies they need to manufacture products, build structures, protect personnel, maintain facilities, and equipment,” said Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. “We are proud to have them join GMA as an Innovator Sponsor and provide educational support to manufacturers in our area.”
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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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: Joy Crosby, Georgia Peanut Commission, 229-386-3690
USDA set to reopen FSA offices
TIFTON, Ga. — The U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced today that all Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices will reopen to provide additional administrative services to farmers and ranchers during the lapse in federal funding.
“At President Trump’s direction, we have been working to alleviate the effects of the lapse in federal funding as best we can, and we are happy to announce the reopening of FSA offices for certain services,” Perdue says. “The FSA provides vital support for farmers and ranchers and they count on those services being available. We want to offer as much assistance as possible until the partial government shutdown is resolved.”
This announcement will allow the peanut marketing loan program to function as designed and the supply chain to work more effectively for the peanut industry.
“We’re very pleased USDA was able to help our industry in a timely manner and open up FSA offices in Georgia and across the nation,” says Armond Morris, a Georgia peanut farmer and chairman of the Georgia Peanut Commission. “We had a real problem on our hands that would have certainly damaged our industry and negatively affected all segments. We certainly appreciate the U.S. Department of Agriculture for taking our concerns into consideration, and responding with a helpful solution”.
Starting on Thursday, Jan. 24, Farm Service Agency offices will put employees back to work full-time for two weeks. After two weeks, assuming the department is still without funding, they will be open three days a week until the shutdown concludes.
“We are highly appreciative of USDA’s collaborative approach, working proactively to support the entire U.S. peanut industry, and peanut growers,” says Karl Zimmer, president and CEO of Premium Peanut. “Without this action, the potential to cause significant, detrimental and long-term impact to the entire peanut industry existed, creating additional hardship for American peanut growers still working to recover from Hurricane Michael. Now, with ongoing support from USDA, we can continue to operate, supporting a thriving domestic business in addition to creating value for U.S. agriculture through our significant exports of peanuts and peanut products to countries around the world.”
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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: Nora Sullivan, Georgia Auctioneers Association, 855-422-0008
2019 Georgia auctioneer bid-calling contest winners
Georgia Auctioneers Association (GAA) congratulates all the contestants of our 2019 Bid Calling Contest at Veterans State Park on January 19, 2019. Frank Trunzo, won $1000 grand prize for Big Peach Classic Award, Elton Baldy won GA Bid Calling Champion, Michael Acord is first runner up and Keith Yoder won second runner up.
Our annual bid calling contest is focused on giving experienced auctioneers a stage to show off their talents, and allow new auctioneers an opportunity to obtain experience performing before a large group in a live auction event. The contest includes an interview portion followed by first round eliminations and a final round to determine the winners.
A special thanks to Todd Spence, GAA Board member who worked hard to put this event together and all other GAA board members who contributed their time and efforts to making the auction and contest a success.
We encourage anyone who is interested in participating in our future bid calling contest to contact us online at http://GeorgiaAuctioneers.org or 855-422-0008.
About Georgia Auctioneers Association: The Georgia Auctioneers Association is a strong non-profit trade association of professionals who have organized to promote and advance the auction profession. Our Board of Directors meets monthly to discuss issues affecting the auction industry, plan educational and networking opportunities. Our membership includes Auctioneers from multiple states, specializing in a variety of areas including real estate, automobile, retail / personal property, livestock and more.
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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: Joy Crosby, Georgia Peanut Commission, 229-386-3690
Georgia Peanut Commission board members renominated
TIFTON, Ga. — Three Georgia Peanut Commission board members were renominated without opposition to the Georgia Peanut Commission board of directors at nomination meetings held on Dec. 10, 2018. The Georgia Farm Bureau Federation conducted the nomination meetings for the commission’s districts two, four and five.
Armond Morris, Tift County, representing district two; Rodney Dawson, Pulaski County, representing district four and Donald Chase, Macon County, representing district five, all previously held the seat for their district, which expired Dec. 31, 2018. Since only one person was nominated for each district, no election is required and the nominated person automatically becomes a member of the Georgia Peanut Commission Board. Now, after renomination, they will serve Georgia peanut farmers on the board for the next three years.
The Georgia peanut production area is divided into five districts based on acreage distribution and geographical location with one board member representing each district. Additional board members include: Joe Boddiford of Screven County, representing district three and Tim Burch of Baker County, representing district one.
The Georgia Peanut Commission represents more than 4,500 peanut farm families in the state and conducts programs in the areas of research, promotion and education. For more information on the programs of the Georgia Peanut Commission, visit www.gapeanuts.com.
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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: Jessie Bland, Georgia Peanut Commission, 229-386-3472
Peanut Leadership Academy Class XI includes Georgia farmers and shellers
TIFTON, Ga. – Twenty peanut growers and sheller representatives from across the Southeast, Texas and Virginia-Carolina area began Class XI of the Peanut Leadership Academy Dec. 9-12, 2018, in Panama City Beach, Florida. The Peanut Leadership Academy is hosted by the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation and is a cooperative effort between Syngenta Crop Protection, the American Peanut Shellers Association and grower organizations. The program began in 1998 with the first class of 14 peanut growers from Alabama, Florida and Georgia. Since then, the academy has grown to include farmers from Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia and sheller representatives.
Activities in the leadership program are structured to give participants a thorough understanding of the U.S. peanut industry. Throughout the course of 18 months and five sessions, program attendees participate in sessions ranging from field trips, meetings with industry leaders and professional development training, as well as one session in Washington, D.C., where class members have an opportunity to visit with members of Congress about issues affecting the peanut industry. During this time, class members build on leadership skills, discuss and debate key industry issues and build relationships.
During the first session, the class members participated in leadership team building skills, etiquette training and learned more about the entire peanut industry while joining the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation annual meeting.
Georgia participants in PLA Class X include: Knapp Boddiford, Sylvania; Blake Edenfield, Brooklet; Megan Fletcher, Golden Peanut & Tree Nuts; Andrew Grimes, Tifton; and Kevin Rentz, Brinson.
Session two of Class XI is scheduled for April 3-5, 2019. For more information on the Peanut Leadership Academy, contact PLA Coordinator, Jessie Bland at the Georgia Peanut Commission or visit www.southernpeanutfarmers.org.
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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: Marjorie Dykes, Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, 770-338-0051
2018 a banner year for the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance
Atlanta, GA – The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA) experienced unprecedented growth in 2018 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, and as the economy and the manufacturing sector continues to improve in the U.S., the manufacturing community in Georgia is reaping the benefits.
“I saw a need in the marketplace for manufacturers to connect and learn from each other,” said Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. “GMA was founded in 2008 as a way to find local resources and learn best business practices from others in the industry.”
Some of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance’s 2018 highlights included:
- 10th Anniversary Celebration and Ribbon Cutting at GMA new office building
- Addition of 2 GMA staff members
- 100 new members and 5 new annual sponsors
- 17 Joint Industry Association of Georgia (JIAG) partners added
- 120 plant tours, educational workshops, and networking events throughout the state
- 16 consumer product plant tours in July 2018 including name brands like Daniel Defense, Duracell, Okabashi, Sherwin Williams, Southwire, and Sunny Delight among others
- BuyFromGA.com website developed to promote consumer-based products
- Over 800 attendees at the Georgia Manufacturing Summit with keynotes from Gulfstream President, Mark Burns and Vice President, Eric Rojek from Thrush Aircraft
- 4th Annual People of Manufacturing Awards
- 2 Editions of the Georgia Manufacturing Directory –Sited as the #1 resource guide for the manufacturing community
- National and International Press Coverage – Atlanta Business Chronicle, Business RadioX, Gwinnett Daily Post, IndustrialSage, Marietta Daily Journal, , Savannah News, Supply Chain NOW Radio, Welding Journal along with many other media sources
“As we reflect on 2018 and our 10th Anniversary year, 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 and we are looking forward to 2019 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
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: Taylor Sills, Georgia Cotton Commission, 478-988-4235, taylor@georgiacotton.org
Davis, Mathis named to cotton commission board; Webb honored for service
In early December, the Commodity Commission Ex Oficio Committee met to make appointments to the Georgia Cotton Commission Board of Directors. GCC Chairman Bart Davis, a cotton, peanut, corn, and cattle farmer from Doerun, Georgia, was reappointed to another term on the board. Chad Mathis, a cotton, peanut, and corn farmer from Arlington, Georgia, Mathis succeeds Jimmy Webb of Calhoun County. At the Commission’s December meeting of the Board of Directors, Webb was honored for his fifteen years of service to Georgia’s cotton producers.
Bart Davis operates Davis Farms with his wife, daughter, and two sons. Davis is a longtime supporter of FFA and holds a State FFA Degree as well as being named Georgia Star Farmer. Davis has also been named Farmer of the Year at the Annual Peanut Festival in Sylvester. In addition to serving as the Georgia Cotton Commission’s Chairman, Davis serves as chairman of the Boll Weevil Eradication Foundation of Georgia, a Delegate to the National Cotton Council, a Director for Southern Cotton Growers, and as an Alternate Director for Cotton Incorporated.
Chad Mathis is a partner in Mathis Farms General Partners along with his father and brother. He graduated from Valdosta State University with a BBA in Marketing and returned to the farm in 1998. Mathis previously served the Georgia Cotton Commission as a board advisor. In addition to service with the Commission, Mathis serves the industry as a delegate to the National Cotton Council of America, state co-chairman for the American Cotton Producers of the National Cotton Council of America, a board member of the Southern Cotton Growers, and an alternate delegate to Cotton Incorporated. He is also a graduate of Leadership Baker. He has three sons who attend Southwest Georgia Academy in Damascus. When asked about his appointment, he said, “I am glad to be a part of the Cotton Commission and excited to help best serve my fellow cotton producers across the state.”
Jimmy Webb is a cotton, peanut, and corn producer from Leary, Georgia. Webb had served from 2000-2011 and 2015-2018 on the Georgia Cotton Commission Board of Directors. He will continue to serve the industry as Treasurer of The Cotton Board and as a director of Staplcotn. Webb has three adult children and two grandchildren. In his comments at the Commission meeting, Webb highlighted how honored he was to have served the industry in many capacities over the years, and is looking forward to the future of the cotton industry in Georgia and the United States.
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 the Georgia Cotton Commission please call 478-988-4235 or on the web at www.georgiacottoncommission.org.
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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: Micajah Sturdivant, MMI Hotel Group, 601-326-8161, msturdivant@mmihg.com
MMI Hotel Group leads Hilton brand rankings
Recently recognized as the #1 ranking Home2 Suites in the United States according to Hilton’s Balanced Scorecard which measures quality of offering and experience, Home2 Suites, St Simons Island, GA has more than their complimentary green apples at the front desk to be proud of. Owned and operated by MMI Hotel Group, the hotel quickly ramped up its performance to be on par with its competitive set after opening January 2017. While the portfolio of Home2 Suites hotels has more than doubled since then, MMI’s St Simons property has sustained an experience for its guests that exceeds all the rest.
Bart Johnson, a tenured MMI Hotel Group General Manager, has assembled a group of personalities that work well together on behalf of their fellow team members and their guests. “I am fortunate to have a talented team who appreciates the opportunities for advancement in and deepening their understanding of our industry,” states B. Johnson. That same yearning for advancement is what has propelled Bart and so many other leaders in the MMI organization over the company’s storied 62-year history.
The entire portfolio of Hilton product that MMI manages ranks in the top 3% of their respective Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton Inn & Suites brands for service. Whether a new box and team or not, MMI’s culture creates operating models that resonate with team members and travelers alike. Hilton Garden Inn – Madison, MS currently ranks 34th out of 702 HGI’s for Overall Experience. Hampton Inn & Suites, Saraland, Alabama’s overall experience ranks them as #25 out of 942 hotels with service being #7 of 942.
In an industry with new supply continuously arriving and guest expectations ever increasing, the stability of MMI Hotel Group’s principals rooted in early advancement of the hospitality industry continues to produce healthy results.
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)
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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: Taylor Sills, Georgia Cotton Commission, 478-988-4235, taylor@georgiacotton.org
Speakers announced for Georgia Cotton Commission’s 12th annual meeting Jan. 30
The Georgia Cotton Commission is pleased to announce the guest speakers at the Commission’s 12th Annual Meeting scheduled for Wednesday, January 30, 2018, at the UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center. The annual meeting is held in conjunction with the UGA Cotton Production Workshop conducted by the UGA Research & Extension Cotton Team.
The UGA Cotton Production Workshop will feature breakout sessions where attendees will learn the latest technical production strategies from the researchers whose projects are funded by the Commission’s research program. The Georgia Cotton Commission Annual Meeting will follow the breakout sessions and feature speakers from several industry organizations.
The program speakers are J. Lee Cromley, Vice President, Southern Cotton Growers; K. Michael Tate, Vice Chairman, National Cotton Council of America; Bruce Atherly, Executive Director, Cotton Council International.
Lee Cromley is a cotton and peanut farmer from Brooklet, Georgia who is currently serving as Vice President of the Southern Cotton Growers, an organization that represents thousands of cotton growers throughout Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida, and Virginia. Cromley is also a board member for the Georgia Cotton Commission, Bulloch Gin, Bulloch County FSA, and Farmers & Merchants Bank and Board Advisor for the National Cotton Council of America. He is a graduate of the University of Georgia College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences and has been farming with his brother Charlie since 1983.
Michael Tate is a cotton, soybean, wheat, corn, and pumpkin farmer from Huntsville, Alabama who is currently serving as the Vice Chairman of the National Cotton Council of America, the trade organization for cotton production in the United States. Tate is the former president of the Southern Cotton Growers, former chair of the American Cotton Producers, board member for Alabama Farmers Co-op and Staplcotn, and board advisor for Cotton Council International.
Bruce Atherley has a long and successful track record in global marketing and management. He previously served as Vice President, Global Marketing for Kao, Inc., a Tokyo-based global manufacturer of personal care and household products. He also worked for the William Wrigley Jr. Company, serving as its Vice President of North American Confections Marketing, President and General Manager of Wrigley Canada and Managing Director, Global Branding Services. Prior to Wrigley, he served as Vice President of Retail Marketing for the H.J. Heinz Company, President and CEO of Pet Life, Inc., Marketing Director, Black and Decker and Product Manager, Cheerios for General Mills Inc. Atherley assumed his current role as Executive Director of Cotton Council International in October 2015.
Following the Annual Meeting speakers, the Commission will host lunch where sponsors will be recognized and door prizes will be given away. The meeting, production workshop, and lunch are open to not only cotton growers, but anyone interested in the cotton industry. The UGA Cotton Production Workshop breakout sessions will be repeated after lunch.
There is no charge to attend. Pre-registration is requested to help with meal plans. Register online at www.ugatiftonconference.caes.uga.edu or call (229) 386-3416.
Thank you to our sponsors:
Deltapine/Bayer Crop Science – Phytogen/Corteva Agriscience
Actagro – Agri-AFC – Alltech – Americot, Inc.-NexGen – Ameris Bank – Choice Cotton Company – CNI
Flint Ag & Turf – Holder Ag Consulting – Indigo Ag – Lasseter Equipment Group
McLean Marechal Insurance/Nationwide Insurance – Nachurs – Nutrien Ag Solutions
Pinnacle Marketing – Rabo AgriFinance – R.W. Griffin/Coffee County Gin/Four Corners Cotton Gin SePRO Corporation – Southeast AgNet – Staplcotn – Syngenta – Triangle Chemical – Valent USA – Valley Irrigation
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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: Greg Brooks, Walton EMC, 770-266-2307
Walton EMC contracts with 200 megawatts of new solar projects for Facebook’s Newton data center
MONROE, Ga. – Walton Electric Membership Corporation (EMC), a consumer-owned utility with a reputation for energy innovation, has executed contracts with two solar developers for three new solar projects as part of its agreement to supply 100 percent renewable energy for Facebook’s data center in Newton County, Georgia. The collaboration is the largest solar development project in Georgia.
Facebook chose Walton EMC as the power supplier for the Newton Data Center when it announced the 970,000 square foot facility in March.
Silicon Ranch and Strata Solar will construct world-class solar power plants that will support the new data center. The facilities will be located in Southwest Georgia.
“We are happy to welcome Silicon Ranch and Strata Solar to the quality partnership of Facebook, Walton EMC and Morgan Stanley to complete the groundbreaking energy supply arrangement for Facebook’s Newton Data Center,” said Walton EMC CEO Ronnie Lee. “Our unique agreements will serve as models for similar projects all across the country and bring noteworthy economic rewards locally.”
“We are thrilled to be working with Walton EMC, Silicon Ranch and Strata Solar to bring more than 200 megawatts (mW) of new solar resources to Georgia,” said Rachel Peterson, vice president of data center strategy for Facebook. “We are committed to supporting all of Facebook’s operations with 100 percent renewable energy and these new solar facilities will help us meet that goal for our Newton Data Center. Developing these resources within the same electric grid that supports our data center will bring even more investment to the region.”
The Newton Data Center is Facebook’s ninth such state-of-the-art facility in the country. The centers are among the most advanced, energy-efficient facilities in the world. They use 38 percent less electricity than the average data center.
Economic boon for Georgia
The solar power plants will economically benefit local communities, with ripple effects felt all across the state.
Every facility will add substantial revenue to each county’s tax income which will benefit local school systems.
Construction will create more than 800 jobs, with additional employment for ongoing operation and maintenance. Local labor and local contractors will fill most of these positions.
The total investment of Silicon Ranch and Strata Solar will reach more than $230 million. Collectively, this is the largest solar development in Georgia, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association.
Silicon Ranch Project
- Location: Early County, Georgia
- Size (electrical): 102.5 mW (AC)
- Expected Completion: 2019
- Jobs created: construction – 400; operation and maintenance – two to three plus local contractors
The Early County facility will deploy the first locally-produced solar modules from Hanwha Q CELLS’s new manufacturing facility in Georgia, which is also the largest in the United States.
Strata Solar Projects
- Location: Calhoun and Colquitt Counties, Georgia
- Size (electrical): Calhoun – 80 mW (AC); Colquitt – 20 mW (AC)
- Expected Completion: 2020
- Jobs created: construction – 400; operation and maintenance – two to three plus local contractors
Growing Georgia’s economy with renewable energy
Facebook’s emphasis on siting renewable resources within the same electric grid as its data centers created an opportunity to bring additional investment in solar generation to Georgia.
“Partnering on the project with a customer-focused, consumer-owned electric cooperative helped to inspire the collaboration,” added Matt Kisber, CEO of Silicon Ranch.
“Facebook and Walton EMC are driven by a ‘concern for community’ and a commitment to the customers they serve. These principles have made them global and national leaders in their respective markets,” said Kisber. “As the long-term owner of every solar project we develop, Silicon Ranch shares these values, and we are proud to support the renewable energy goals of Facebook’s Newton Data Center while bringing an economic shot in the arm to rural Georgia.”
“Innovative companies like Facebook, partnered with customer-focused utilities like Walton EMC, are driving renewable energy growth across the country,” said Markus Wilhelm, CEO of Strata Solar.
“Strata is proud to bring our reputation for quality and efficiency to two more projects in Georgia,” he said. “By partnering on clean energy projects like these, we can grow the Georgia economy while bringing significant benefits to local communities.”
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About Walton EMC
Walton EMC is a customer-owned power company that serves accounts over its 10-county service area between Atlanta and Athens, Ga. Its primary focus is providing exceptional service to its 128,000 residential, commercial and industrial customer-owner accounts while also caring for the area’s communities. Learn more at facebook.com/waltonemc.
About Silicon Ranch Corporation
Silicon Ranch is the U.S. solar platform for Shell and one of the largest independent solar power producers in the country. Silicon Ranch develops to own all of its projects for the long-term, a distinction that means the company is deeply committed to its partners and communities and stands behind the performance of its facilities day in and day out. The company’s operating portfolio includes more than 120 facilities across 14 states from New York to California, including the first large-scale solar projects in Georgia, Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas. To learn more, visit siliconranch.com and go to facebook.com/siliconranch.
About Strata Solar
Strata Solar is a leading provider of utility-scale, commercial and industrial solar photovoltaic systems. Strata has constructed over 1 gigawatt (gW) in total solar capacity and maintains a development pipeline of over 3gW. The company’s integrated approach, which includes development, financing, engineering, procurement, construction, operations and maintenance, allows Strata to consistently build quality projects with long-term ownership in mind. Strata is consistently ranked as one of the largest utility-scale solar integrators in the U.S. To learn more, visit stratasolar.com.
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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: Marjorie Dykes, Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, 770-338-0051
Optimum Productions, award-winning video marketing agency, joins Georgia Manufacturing Alliance as developer sponsor
Atlanta, GA — The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance continues to expand its reach and has added Optimum Productions as an annual sponsor. Optimum Productions is an award-winning video production agency that provides video and sales expertise for all size businesses and name brands such as Anixter, Coca-Cola, Hewlett Packard, HD Supply, NCR, Stanley Black & Decker, and SunTrust. They have won nine Telly Awards and their team combines video storytelling and technical know-how with an extensive range of production services that bring businesses and products to life.
Optimum Productions also produces IndustrialSage which is a weekly video-podcast series that focuses on digital marketing for the industrial and manufacturing space. They interview leading professionals to learn how they are solving challenges within the industry and have produced over 60 episodes to date.
“It’s clear that industrial marketers and sales teams are experiencing a dramatic shift as technologies rapidly evolve and millennials quickly overtake Gen X in the workforce,” said Danny Gonzales, CEO and Executive Producer of Optimum Productions. “94% of B2B buyers do some form of online research before buying; and 80% of B2B buyers have already made up their decision before they contact you. We are excited to be able to bring our expertise in digital sales and marketing to the manufacturing community and help them be more profitable for 2019.”
On January 15th in Alpharetta, Optimum Productions will host a hands-on workshop on Digital Sales & Marketing that will help manufacturers and suppliers build digital campaigns and improve sales. Topics will include: The State of the Industry; Inbound Marketing 101; SMART Goals; The Content Funnel; Sales & Marketing Enablement; Software & Tools (Tips/Tricks) Click here to learn more: https://www.georgiamanufacturingalliance.com/events/digital-sales-marketing-lunch-learn-alpharetta
“Sales and marketing are always the number-one topic that manufacturers want to learn about,” said Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. “Optimum Productions produced our opening video and led our Sales & Marketing panel at the Georgia Manufacturing Summit in October. They are on the leading edge of the business video industry, and we are excited to add them as a GMA sponsor and to have them on our Educational Team to provide Digital Sales & Marketing trainings for our members.”
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
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: Marjorie Dykes, Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, 770-338-0051
Consumers are supporting local jobs by shopping from BuyFromGa.com
Atlanta, GA – The Made in Georgia movement is sweeping across the state, and consumers are checking out www.BuyFromGeorgia.com to find products they can purchase for the holidays. Studies show that there are currently 606 million products on Amazon, and this website was created to educate people on products that are made in our state.
The www.BuyFromGA.com website features 100s of items that are manufactured in Georgia that consumers can purchase using their Amazon account. This site was developed by the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance who is on a mission to educate people about what is made in their community and the impact those goods have on their local economy.
The www.BuyFromGA.com website features name brand and unique items that would make great gifts for the holidays while supporting Georgia employees and their families. Just a sample of gift ideas includes:
- Claxton Fruit Cakes made in Claxton, GA
- Kumho Tires made in Macon, GA
- Magic Circle Trampolines made in Columbus, GA
- Mizuno Golf Clubs made in Norcross, GA
- Okabashi Shoes made in Buford, GA
- Primo Grills made in Tucker, GA
- Savannah Bee Honey and Beauty Products made in Savannah, GA
- West Georgia Cornhole made in Winston, GA
“The www.BuyFromGA.com site was developed to make people aware of how they can make a difference by shopping and buying local made goods,” said Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. “We want to continue our mission to support the manufacturers in our state and to bring awareness of the 100s of consumer based products that are produced in our great state.”
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, 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 http://www.GeorgiaManufacturingAlliance.com.
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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: Taylor Sills, Georgia Cotton Commission, 478-988-4235
Jacobs and Hayes presented 2018 King Cotton Awards
Local UGA Cooperative Extension Service agents are an incredible resource for cotton farmers across Georgia. Agents are known for delivering timely and accurate information, which is instrumental for the success of Georgia’s farmers. They also do community specific research, education, and outreach programs, designed at helping farmers maximizing yields and efficiency.
For the eighteenth year in a row, the Georgia Cotton Commission sponsored the King Cotton Awards to recognize outstanding contributions of county agents to Georgia cotton producers. The Senior Award is for agents with 10 or more years of experience, while the Junior Award, named the Allen B. Fulford Award, is for those with less than 10 years of service. The latter award honors the accomplishments and memory of Allen B. Fulford as a county Extension agent and state cotton agronomist. The awards were presented at the 2018 Georgia Association of County Agricultural Agents Annual Meeting & Professional Improvement Conference held in Buford in November. The Georgia Cotton Commission is proud to salute the excellent work that County Extension Agents do for farmers across the state.
The 2018 Senior King Cotton Award Winner is James Jacobs of Pierce County, where he serves as County Extension Coordinator as well as Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent. Jacobs previously served producers in Ware and Berrien Counties. James works with the UGA Cotton On-Farm Variety Evaluation Program as well as doing individual trials on conventional and nematode-resistant varieties, all of which helps producers select the best varieties of cotton to plant for the current year, as well as in the future. He also goes far beyond the call of duty, by helping mentor county agents across the state.
The 2018 Allen B. Fulford Award recipient is Bryan Hayes of Mitchell County, where he serves as ANR Agent. Bryan started with UGA Cooperative Extension in 2014, and has made a major impact on his community since that time. Hayes also participates in UGA On-Farm Cotton Variety Evaluation Program trials as well as helping coordinate other research studies with the University of Georgia as well as the University of Florida. Bryan has become a leading county agent on cotton in his four years in Mitchell County, and is continuing to grow as a leader in the extension service.
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 the Georgia Cotton Commission please call 478-988-4235 or on the web at www.georgiacottoncommission.org.
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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: Joy Crosby, Georgia Peanut Commission, 229-386-3690
43rd annual Georgia Peanut Farm Show set for Jan. 17 in Tifton
TIFTON, Ga. — Make plans to attend the 43rd annual Georgia Peanut Farm Show and Conference scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 17, 2019, from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at the University of Georgia Tifton Campus Conference Center in Tifton, Georgia. The one-day show is free and open to all farmers and industry representatives to attend.
Attendees will have the opportunity to visit with more than 100 agribusinesses and organizations in the peanut and agricultural industry. Farmers will be able to earn private and commercial pesticide applicator certification, as well as learn about cutting-edge research and developments during the University of Georgia Peanut Production Seminar and industry-wide sponsored Peanut Seed Seminar.
Farm Show chairman Rodney Dawson is looking forward to the 2019 show and having a large crowd of farmers attend like previous years. “I encourage farmers to attend this one-day show in Tifton,” Dawson says. “The knowledge they will gain from industry representatives and seminars is an investment in the future of their farm.”
The Georgia Peanut Commission, in cooperation with OneBlood, will host a blood drive from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. during the show. At the close of the day, there will be nearly $10,000 in door prizes presented to farmers, as well as a Grand Door Prize, vendor products, certificates and equipment.
For more information on the show, contact the Georgia Peanut Commission office at 229-386-3470 or visit www.gapeanuts.com.
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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: Joy Crosby, Georgia Peanut Commission, 229-386-3690
Nominations open for Outstanding Georgia Young Peanut Farmer Award
TIFTON, Ga.— Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Georgia Young Peanut Farmer. The state winner will be announced at the Georgia Peanut Farm Show on Thursday, Jan. 17, 2019, in Tifton, Georgia. The award is sponsored by the Georgia Peanut Commission and BASF.
The Outstanding Georgia Young Peanut Farmer Award is based upon the applicant’s overall farm operation; environmental and stewardship practices; and leadership, civic, church, and community service activities.
“We have so many young peanut farmers making a difference in their communities and I consider this awards program a great opportunity to recognize one young peanut farmer for their contributions to the agricultural industry,” says Armond Morris, chairman of the Georgia Peanut Commission.
The award is open for any active Georgia peanut farmer who is not over 45 years of age, as of Jan. 17, 2019. An individual may receive the award only once. There is no limit on the number of applicants from each county in Georgia.
“BASF is honored to be a sponsor of the Outstanding Georgia Young Peanut Farmer Award,” says Dan Watts, district manager of BASF Crop Protection Products. “We are committed to agriculture and bringing new innovative solutions to producers that will allow them to continue to be successful.”
Applications are due to the GPC office by Friday, Dec. 14, 2018. The award application is available online at www.gapeanuts.com or by contacting Joy Crosby at 229-386-3690 or joycrosby@gapeanuts.com.
Previous Georgia winners include Elton Baldy of Norman Park, Brandon Branch of Baxley, Trey Dunaway of Hawkinsville, Andrew Grimes of Tifton, Randy Branch of Baxley, James Hitchcock Jr. of Tennille, Brad Thompson of Donalsonville, Greg Mims of Donalsonville, Jim Waters of Blackshear and Jimmy Webb of Leary, Georgia. The award winner receives registration and hotel accommodations to attend the Southern Peanut Growers Conference, July 18-20, 2019, and a sign to display at his or her farm.
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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: Lisa Ignoto, KAMMCO
800-232-2259
KAMMCO collaboration with military health system to deliver critical health information across the globe
(OCT. 26, 2018) On August 30, the Military Health System (MHS) added critical medical information from seven physician-led health information exchanges (HIEs) across the nation. This was facilitated by the Kansas Health Information Network (KHIN), KAMMCO and the eHealth Exchange. Laura McCrary, Ed.D, Executive Director of KHIN comments on the significance, “This represents the growing capabilities of HIEs to share records in all locations from which a patient has received care.”
With this new development, medical records can be shared across the world as military personnel and their families transition between multiple locations, stateside or overseas. Military hospitals and clinics now can quickly and securely access patients’ personal health information 24/7 and have access from the physician-led HIEs in Kansas, Connecticut, New Jersey, South Carolina, Georgia, Missouri and Louisiana.
“MHS cares for 9.4 million beneficiaries, delivering care globally in military hospitals and clinics and providing coordinated, integrated care through civilian networks,” said Kimberly Heermann-Do, Health Information Exchange Office Lead in the EHR Modernization Program Management Office. Heermann-Do added, “Through HIEs, records are available securely from the private sector if the HIE is onboarded to the MHS. Having access to records for patients across the KAMMCO network will assist MHS providers with clinical decisions.”
“The Medical Society of New Jersey (MSNJ) has a long history of supporting the healthcare needs of our active duty military in New Jersey. Sharing clinical information from our physician practices with MHS through OneHealth New Jersey furthers our support in this important area,” shared Larry Downs, JD, MSNJ CEO. “With a large joint base located in New Jersey our physician members provide care to many active duty military and their families.” MSNJ is one of seven medical societies who partner with KAMMCO in the delivery of a physician-led health information exchange platform.
Kurt Scott, KAMMCO CEO said, “KAMMCO provides a critical service to make patients’ medical records available wherever they receive care. It is a privilege that we can now deliver lab results, current medications and health histories for servicemen and women across the globe. We are proud that MHS can query our HIEs and effectively use the clinical data they access.”
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About KAMMCO
KAMMCO is a provider-led medical professional liability insurer affiliated with the Kansas Medical Society. KAMMCO’s provider-led approach uniquely positions it to help physicians, other healthcare providers, integrated delivery networks, accountable care organizations, and others seeking to improve patient outcomes and adapt to new performance-based payment models through the use of data analytics and business intelligence tools. KAMMCO is now delivering health information exchange and analytics products and services in partnership with medical societies in six states beyond Kansas, including Georgia, South Carolina, Connecticut, New Jersey, Missouri, and Louisiana. For more information, visit www.KAMMCO.com.
About Kansas Health Information Network (KHIN)
KHIN’s mission is to improve healthcare quality, coordination and efficiency through the exchange of health information at the point of care utilizing a secure electronic network provided by a collaboration of healthcare organizations. KHIN is a provider-led 501(c)3. Its goals are to ensure providers, patients and communities have long-term access to cost effective, sustainable health information exchange aligned with costs distributed across a broad user base. It also encourages and removes barriers so communities and regions can focus on quality improvement, patient centered medical home and entrepreneurial strategies that effect local health outcomes. For more information, visit www.khinonline.org.
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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: Nora Sullivan
855-422-0051
Sam Williamson inducted in Georgia Auctioneers Hall of Fame
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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: Marjorie Dykes, Ga. Manufacturing Alliance
770-338-0051
Fifth annual People of Manufacturing Awards presented at 2018 Georgia Manufacturing Summit
Atlanta, GA – The Georgia Manufacturing Summit hosted the 5th Annual People of Manufacturing Awards on October 10, 2018 at the Cobb Galleria. These awards honored the people that exhibit excellence on a daily basis and have gone above and beyond to better their organization’s manufacturing operations.
“The People of Manufacturing Awards are designed to bring exposure and recognition to these leaders that not only perform operational excellence, but are also involved in community service,” said Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. “We are excited to announce the winners for 2018.”
Team Operational Excellence
Adient in West Point, GA
The winner for Team Operational Excellence was the High Performance Team (HPT) at Adient in West Point. In 2017, with the full engagement of the hourly workforce, the plant achieved outstanding improvements in terms of safety, quality, delivery and cost. This plant has become the “go and see” plant for HPT activities, hosting plant managers and HPT leads from all other plants, including those outside our business unit. Early successes driven by HPT include record level TUMS (Outbound Trailer Utilization), record low scrap levels, greater than 95% average monthly closure rate on ELPA (electronic layered process audit) findings and a 50% decrease in absenteeism. The West Point plant is very active in the community, supporting the local food bank, a local nursing home, and Christmas and birthdays for 40 children in a local boys and girls home.
Team Safety Award
Scientific Games in Alpharetta, GA
The winner of the Team Safety Award was Scientific Games, a global gaming entertainment company with its largest lottery instant game manufacturing facility located in Alpharetta, GA. Over the last three years, Scientific Games’ safety culture has made impressive advancements to reduce incidents and provide a safer manufacturing workplace. Evidence that the safety protocols have been effective at Scientific Games can be seen in the reduction of the number of recordable incident reports over the last two years, which has allowed the facility to fall within the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) classification of “world class safety”.
Plant Manager Award
Jason Harden of Sunny Delight Beverages in Atlanta, GA
The winner for the Plant Manager Award was Jason Harden who serves as Site Operation Manager for Sunny Delight Beverages. Mr. Harden has 10 plus years of experience in manufacturing and maintenance systems with extensive knowledge in warehouse management. He is highly effective in team building and process improvements and recently served on the steering committee for the new Hot Fill Project Installation. In addition, his innovations facilitated the site to produce new configurations for Costco on demand. He has developed processes to rapidly cross train technicians to increase capacity and flexibility. Jason is active in his community with feeding the homeless and working with the Gateway Foundation and Hope House.
Front Line Supervisor Award
Elton Seton of KaMin in Sandersville, GA
The winner for Front Line Supervisor Award was Elton Seton who is the Production Supervisor at KaMin LLC. He is an experienced reliability engineer with a demonstrated history of working in the mining & metals-nonmetals industry. Skilled in AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Root Cause Analysis, Preventative Maintenance, Project Engineering, and Process Optimization, he is a strong operations professional with a Mechanical Engineering degree from Georgia Southern University. His first role at KaMin was a maintenance reliability engineer where he transformed the way KaMin processes machine reliability data across their three plants in GA. His community service includes building beds for needy families in Augusta, donating time to help the less fortunate, and servicing as a volunteer at every charitable event that the KaMin hosts.
Charlie Post, the CEO of TSI Solutions, was designated as the Awards Chairman and was responsible for appointing a panel of judges to select the winners. “The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance was established to promote, connect and educate manufacturers across the state,” said Mr. Post. “In support of that mission, the People of Manufacturing Awards was established to recognize the hard work, talents, and achievements of those individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to their company, their co-workers, and the Georgia manufacturing community.”
The Georgia Manufacturing Summit is produced by The Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA). 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 Calendar and BuyFromGA.com 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 http://www.GeorgiaManufacturingAlliance.com.
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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: Joy Crosby, Georgia Peanut Commission, 229-386-3690
Georgia Peanut Commission Hurricane Michael update: Impact on Georgia peanut industry
Growers and buying points assessing peanut crop
TIFTON, Ga – Hurricane Michael devastated Georgia agriculture during the most inopportune time; harvest season for many agricultural commodities. One of those commodities included peanuts, where 50 percent of the crop had been harvested. The remaining 50 percent is yet to be harvested as crop conditions deteriorate and damaged peanut buying points struggle to regain power to dry and grade the peanuts. Many unknowns remain about the devastation of the 2018 Georgia peanut crop.
The Georgia Peanut Commission has been meeting with federal and state officials discussing the current state of the peanut crop and impact on peanut infrastructure. Although it is too early to estimate the financial impact of the disaster, the GPC, working with state and federal officials, will determine as best possible the impact on growers and the industry’s infrastructure once the peanut crop is harvested.
“Hurricane Michael for peanut farmers is still an invisible problem in some locations, because we have peanuts in the ground that haven’t been dug yet and major infrastructure issues with buying points not being able to dry the peanuts or grade them,” says Don Koehler, GPC executive director.
According to the Oct. 15, 2018, crop condition index report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service, the crop condition index for Georgia peanuts dropped 12 percent since the hurricane came through.
“This is the largest decline in the crop condition index over the past years,” says Stanley Fletcher, professor of policy at the Center for Rural Prosperity and Innovation at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College.
“It’s really too early to tell the exact loss the peanut industry may face,” says Scott Monfort, University of Georgia Extension agronomist for peanuts. “There are a lot of factors in play to determine the estimated loss due to delayed harvest in areas where farmers can’t get into the field or issues with infrastructure at peanut buying points where peanuts can’t be dried or graded without power.”
Farmers like Tim Burch of Baker County, Georgia, have not been able to harvest their entire crop. Burch has only been able to harvest 100 of his 600 acres of peanuts.
“This year’s near perfect crop has been nearly destroyed,” Burch says. “The infrastructure has been crippled and if buying points can’t operate, then farmers can’t get back in the field to harvest their crop. We need fair weather for a month so we can get in the remainder of the peanut crop.”
Decatur County farmer Andy Bell agrees with Burch and adds that it is difficult for farmers to get back in the field while they survey the severely injured peanut plants and wonder what type of yield remains below the ground.
“Many of the late planted peanuts are showing vine damage with loss of leaves on the vine and the remaining vine turning yellow,” Bell says. “Simply put, nutrient to the plant is not happening.”
Bell adds, many farmers had to make a choice prior to the hurricane and combine what they had dug under terrible circumstances including wet field conditions. He estimates an average loss of 1,000 pounds per acre in fields harvested prior to the hurricane. Bell says, it remains to be seen the loss following the hurricane from loose shelled kernels, debris in the field and peanut grade, which ultimately lowers the price the farmer receives.
“The process of getting our food from the farmer’s field into our consumers’ hands encompasses a variety of components that often go unnoticed,” says Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary W. Black. “Our farmers depend on these resources and infrastructures to be operational, so they can finish the job they started. We are actively working to assist our partners in repairing damages and regaining power, so the agricultural community can continue with the important task in hand.”
Long time buying point operator, Wesley Powell, owner of Dollar Brothers, Inc. in Decatur County, Georgia, is devastated by the damage.
“In my 30 years of operating Dollar Brothers, this is by far the worst I’ve ever seen and the only insurance claim I have filed in 30 years,” he says. “We had extensive damage to the peanut drying facility and peanut warehouse.”
Powell adds, farmers in his area are slowly getting back into the fields and delivering peanuts to his buying point. He is using generators at this time to dry and grade the peanuts as they are delivered, but it is a slow process compared to normal conditions.
The GPC encourages farmers to attend an upcoming Georgia Farm Service Agency Agriculture Disaster Assistance Meeting scheduled for Monday, Oct. 22 at 2:00 p.m. at the University of Georgia Tifton Campus Conference Center. Representatives from the USDA FSA, National Resources Conservation Service, Rural Development and Risk Management Agency will be available to provide updates and information regarding disaster programs available for farmers affected by Hurricane Michael.
The GPC plans to continue working with state and federal officials on disaster assistance for growers and industry. As more information becomes available, updates will be added to the GPC website at www.gapeanuts.com.
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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: Andy Lucas, Georgia Farm Bureau, 478-474-0679, ext. 5237
GFB Foundation collecting donations to aid hurricane victims
The Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Foundation for Agriculture is accepting tax-deductible monetary donations to help Hurricane Michael victims recover from the storm. All donations made to the GFB Foundation’s Hurricane Michael Relief Fund will be given to Georgians, farmers and ranchers who suffered losses to the storm.
Hurricane Michael hit farmers across South and Central Georgia hard damaging row crops, pecan orchards, vegetable crops, poultry houses, farm equipment and barns. Storm damage wasn’t limited to agriculture as Michael also left homes and automobiles damaged or destroyed, and people homeless.
“With Hurricane Michael making landfall last week, the damage Georgia has experienced will leave a lasting effect on our state. As we continue to assess damage, Georgia Farm Bureau is on the ground to help begin the recovery and rebuilding process for Georgians impacted by this tragedy,” GFB President Gerald Long said. “While debris can be cleared away and structures rebuilt, we must continue to pray for the farmers who have lost entire crops, poultry houses, farm equipment and livestock.”
University of Georgia pecan experts have made an early estimate that Hurricane Michael cost Georgia pecan growers 40 to 50 percent of this year’s crop. Many mature pecan trees were uprooted, which will cost growers future production as it takes seven to ten years for a new tree to produce nuts.
According to the Georgia Cotton Commission, cotton growers are reporting crop losses from 25 to 100 percent, depending on their location. Damage to Georgia’s peanut crop is hard to estimate this early due to the crop being in various stages of harvest when Michael hit. Power loss and structure damage to facilities where peanuts are bought and graded could also impact the crop. The Georgia Department of Agriculture reports that 92 poultry houses were destroyed and vegetable crops in hard-hit areas are a total loss.
Donations can be made online via credit card by visiting gfb.ag/stormrelief. Donations made by check should be made out to the Georgia Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture and specified for the Hurricane Michael Relief Fund in the memo line. Checks should be mailed to:
Georgia Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture
Hurricane Michael Relief Fund
Attn: David Jolley
P.O. Box 7068
Macon, Ga. 31209
Donors who contribute $250 or more must receive an acknowledgement from the GFB Foundation in order to deduct the gift as a charitable donation on their federal income tax return. Donors should provide the GFB Foundation with a return address at the time donations are made to receive an acknowledgement. Please contact stormrelief@gfb.org with monetary donation questions or call 478-474-8411 ext. 5142.
About Georgia Farm Bureau
Founded in 1937, Georgia Farm Bureau is the largest general farm organization in Georgia. It works to connect consumers with agriculture and offers its members a wide variety of benefits, including insurance, but enrollment in any of the member benefits is optional and not a requirement for membership.
About GFB Foundation for Agriculture
The GFB Foundation for Agriculture funds activities to educate students and consumers about how farmers grow their food. It also funds scholarships for students pursuing careers in agriculture.
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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: Taylor Sills, Georgia Cotton Commission, 478-988-4235
Hurricane Michael devastates Georgia cotton crop
On the afternoon/night of October 10th and the early hours of October 11th, Hurricane Michael wreaked havoc on southwest, central, and parts of east Georgia and took an exceptional toll on Georgia’s agricultural economy, especially the cotton crop. Producers are reporting losses anywhere from 25% to a total loss, depending on location in the state, as well as structural and equipment losses and damage.
Official reports of losses will be coming in the coming weeks as University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service personnel collect data. It is however, without question that losses will be in the hundreds of millions of dollars. Losses will extend well beyond the farm, as cotton gins, other agribusinesses, and rural communities will feel the ripples of Hurricane Michael’s aftermath for years to come.
Producers are encouraged to document damage and losses before, during, and after cleanup as well as financial records of cleanup, repair, etc., as assistance and crop insurance may take some time. Industry leadership has been in touch with officials in Washington and Atlanta describing the effects of the storm.
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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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.
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