April 2011 Newsletter

Featured Articles Technology Industry Report Georgia Logistics Summit Sponsor Spring Workshop Spring Registration is OPEN!  JOBS Available April Luncheon Deadline  2011 Events Calendar New Members Nominating Committee Spring Registration is OPEN May 18-20 at Sea Palms on St. Simons Island GEDA is very pleased to announce that REGISTRATION is now available for the 2011 Spring Workshop!  We are still tweaking some of the final details, but that will be taken care of shortly.  Angie Gheesling and her Committee have a STELLAR lineup waiting for you in St Simons.  Come and get the tools you'll need to SURVIVE today's economy and not get voted off the island. OUTSTANDING array of breakout sessions; OUTlandish entertainment on Wednesday night; ample OUTdoor networking opportunities; speakers to help you OUTmaneuver the competition - it's all right here a Spring Workshop 2011!!! JOBS JOBS JOBS  Seven Positions Available There are currently seven fantastic positions available on the GEDA Jobs Center.  They are all over the state and are seeking varied levels of experience and knowledge. Economic Development Research Intern, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce (Duluth) Archway Professional, UGA Archway Partnership (Hawkinsville) CEO, Milledgeville-Baldwin County Chamber (Milledgeville) Membership Manager, Greater Macon Chamber (Macon) Senior Project Manager, Metro Atlanta Chamber (Atlanta) Asst. Dir. of Economic & Community Development, City of Macon (Macon) Executive Director, Valdosta-Lowndes County Industrial Authority (Valdosta)  April Luncheon Deadline  DOL Commissioner Mark Butler TODAY is the deadline to register for the April luncheon at the EARLY BIRD price.  Make sure to REGISTER TODAY to save money!

Technology State of the Industry Report The Technology Association of Georgia (TAG), the state’s leading association dedicated to the promotion and economic advancement of Georgia’s technology industry, unveiled results from its 2011 State of the Industry: Technology in Georgia Report. The report was released at TAG’s 8th annual Georgia Technology Summit on March 23rd.    CLICK HERE TO SEE THE FULL REPORT.  With more than 13-thousand technology companies and close to 250-thousand technologists in our state, Georgia is truly emerging as a top state in the nation for technology. It is TAG’s hope that the State of the Industry Report and ‘Where Georgia Leads’ maps prove to be valuable resources for decision-makers as they look to expand or relocate their businesses in Georgia. For more information on the State or the Industry Report or TAG, contact Heather Miner, Director of Economic and Community Resources.       Click here to read the full article.    Georgia Logistics Summit May 10; 8am - 4pm at Cobb Galleria On May 9th & 10th the State of Georgia will hold its Third Annual Georgia Logistics Summit hosted by the Center of Innovation for Logistics.  In just three short years, the Georgia Logistics Summit has become a truly unique and highly anticipated event.  The Summit has doubled in size every year and hosted 950 participants from 12 states in 2010; most importantly, 85% came from private industry.  All indications are for this to continue and the 2011 Summit to attract even more participants from all over the World!    Themed as "Thriving in a Changing Ecosystem" the 2011 Summit will explore logistics business opportunity - and their requirements - across a set of six markets:  Agribusiness, Air Freight, Energy, Life-sciences, Manufacturing, and Ocean Freight.   Already confirmed for 2011 is a full agenda and speaker list of more than 30 industry leaders across six “Opportunity Sessions”, 3 keynote speakers and special guests. Summit attendees will have the chance to interact with these industry executives who will share their perspectives on what is desired from logistics providers, current gaps in service offerings, and specific industry trends that will impact logistics service delivery.  Click here to see the flyer.  Or go to this website to register.   It's Not too Late to Sponsor Spring! GEDA has a lot of scholarship options available for Spring Workshop.  And now, it's easier than ever to sponsor!  You can add it to your registration when you register for the Conference!  You can sponsor as a Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze Conference Sponsor.  Or we have a lot of other options as well, like: Evening entertainment ($2,500.)  This is one our members will NOT soon forget!  Wouldn't you love to have your logo attached to this??? New members/Board luncheon ($750.)  Wednesday luncheon for the GEDA Board of Directors and new members. Refreshment Break ($1,000.)  Breaks with our sponsors - and you can be the one everyone thanks for the cookies and COKE products! Golf Tournament: Tournament sponsor - $500 Hole sponsor - $100 Beverage cart sponsor ($1,000).  EVERYONE loves seeing the beverage cart come! For more information, contact Sponsorship Committee Chair, Ricky McGee.

2011 Events Calendar April 18  Luncheon at Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center, featuring Dept. of Labor Commissioner Mark Butler. (Our last three programs have sold out.  Don't delay and be left out!) May 18-20  Spring Workshop.  Sea Palms at St. Simons Island.  Hotel reservations are totally booked.  Overflow is available at the Sea Palms Inn. Welcome New Members Georgia Department of Economic Development Ashlee Aurandt Chris Cummiskey Stacey Davis Craig Dominey Tony Greene LaRhonda Jackson Lee Thomas Faye Tripp Stella Xu Trusted Business Advisors Jeannine Brown Dalton Utilities Mark Buckner Integra Water, LLC John McDonald City of Douglasville Development Authority Cindy Pocali Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber Don Sims   Who's the Next GEDA Leader?  Nominating Committee Will Meet This Summer Start thinking.  Who will be the next person to lead GEDA?  Who are the next all-stars who are ready to shine on the Board of Directors or as Committee Chairs?  The GEDA Nominating Committee will meet this summer to develop of slate of Officers and Directors for the coming years.  We would like your feedback as to the people you feel are the right ones to lead this Association.  More information will be available soon.

March 2011 Newsletter

Featured Articles Legislative Updates Governor Deal at March Luncheon Membership Directory Purchase Scholarships Available IEDC Salary Survey 2011 Events Calendar New Members Survivor:St. Simons What's the Next Big Thing? GEDA Directory Purchase Exciting New Opportunity for You In response to what our members requested, GEDA has created a new purchase option for the membership directory.  As you know, the membership directory can be viewed online or in pdf form by any active member of GEDA.  We also have the ability for anyone to purchase an Excel spreadsheet version of the directory for $100.  However, this is a one-time purchase.  If someone's information changes, the spreadhseet could have some incorrect contact information on it.  (But realistically, does anyone EVER change jobs??) Because of feedback from our membership, we have added a new purchase option - the updatable purchase.  Now, for just an extra $50 ($150 total) members can purchase the same spreadsheet, but can request up to three updates to that spreadsheet throughout the calendar year!  This is the best way to keep in contact with all of your colleagues and peers throughout GEDA! Scholarships Available! Scholarship Application Deadline are Approaching GEDA Offers scholarships for GEDA and external professional development opportunities throughout the year.  Some of those courses (IEDC, GEDA Spring Workshop) are comign up soon, as are the deadlines to apply for the scholarships.  Go to the Professional Development Committee Page to find the applications. IEDC Salary Survey Georgia-specific results available online In 2010, GEDA partnered with the International Economic Development Council to collect data for their bi-annual salary survey.  The results have been finalized and GEDA has obtained the Georgia-specific results from this survey.  We have arranged to be able to provide these results to our members.  You can find the pdf document on the Membership Services Committee documents page.  ANOTHER great benefit of GEDA membership!

Legislative Updates In an effort to ensure that important updates from the Georgia General Assembly are at the forefront of our members' attention, GEDA has moved the Legislative Update section to the front and center portion of our home page.  Each week, we will post the most recent update from the Capitol in that location so that you always know where to go and what to do to find out about the latest happenings. Many people have begun discussing two bills in particular, SB 159 and HB 384. SB 159 was introduced by GEDA member, Senator Jeff Mullis.  This bill aims to protect economic development negotiations and discussions from being subject to open records requests while the project is still active.  This was posted as an ACTION ALERT for members to contact their elected officials to weigh in with their opinions on the legislation.  As a point of reference, GEDA's Public Policy Agenda has an item that specifically mentions this exact point.  We urge all GEDA members to contact Senators and Representatives with encouragement to vote in the way that best supports economic growth in Georgia. HB 384 is a bill created by the Department of Economic Development and is a substantive change to how incentives are calculated, particularly in three main areas: the Tier system, the Quality Jobs Tax Credit and the Investment Tax Credit.  (Click here to more detailed information about the bill.) The Tier System for calculating Job Tax Credits will cease to exist as it is currently known.  Under this bill, all communities would be able to offer a base credit of $1,750 per job.  The credit can grow to $3,250, provided that the community is a member of a Joint Development Authority ($250), the project is an existing industry OR the community is a Tier 1 community/Opportunity Zone ($500) and the company takes advantage of a Georgia Port Facility (identical to the current system, $1,250.)  In addition, companies that locate in one of the 71 Tier 1 communities or an Opportunity Zone will be able to use these credits against their payroll withholding. The Quality Job Tax Credit is being revised to make it more accessible for more companies.  The minimum threshold for this credit is now 15 jobs, instead of 50.  (Tier 1 communities and Opportunity Zones need only create 5 jobs at a minimum.)  Companies meeting the minimum job threshold and 110% of the county average will realize a $3,000 credit, 120% would equal $3,500 per job. Investment Tax Credits are being expanded to include new companies and recent relocations.  Previously, a company had to have been in business in Georgia for three years before taking advantage of this credit - that rule has been lifted in this proposed legislation.  The new guidelines are as follows: Investment of $1 million - $15 million equates to a 1% credit, $15 million - $50 million equals a 3% credit, $50 million - $100 million is a 5% credit, $100 million - $200 million brings a 7% credit, and Over $200 million would equal an 8% income tax credit. Please keep in mind that GEDA does not lobby and therefore does not take a position on any proposed legislation.  We urge our members to become informed on the bills and resolutions and contact their individual elected officials to voice their opinions. Governor Nathan Deal Nearly Sold Out! GEDA members must be enthusiastic about seeing Governor Deal.  In the first 24 hours after we opened the registration, we had nearly 150 registrants!  We still have room for a few more people to join us, but it is likely that we are heading to our second consecutive sellout for a monthly luncheon.  DO NOT DELAY!!  If you have not registered yet, drop everything and do so NOW!  This luncheon will see the largest crowd we have had in years. After the luncheon, make sure to go to one of our after-hours sessions: The Natrual Resources & Environment Committee is hosting a series of three mini-sessions after the luncheon ina speed-dating format.  You can get a twenty-minute primer on one of three areas and then "rotate" over to the next session!  Topics are: How to make a brownfield productive, Capturing the solar potential from your industrial roof, and What you need to know about LEED, the Green Movement in General and Sustainability. At 2:00PM, the Membership Services Committee will host a GEDA 101 session in the Georgia EMC offices (Centergy Building, 7th floor.)  Any new members, prospective members, first-time attendees or long-time members interested in learning more are invited.

2011 Events Calendar March 21  Luncheon at Hotel Palomar.  Governor Nathan Deal speaking. April 18  Luncheon at Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center (Registration will be available soon.) May 18-20  Spring Workshop.  Sea Palms at St. Simons Island.  Hotel reservations are available. Welcome New Members Dwana Coleman,  D Coleman Realty Group Melvin Everson, Governor's Office of Workforce Development David Lyons, Valley Partnership Alison Jo Pienta, Student Survivor: Saint Simons Island Spring Workshop Theme Announced The weather is getting warmer which means one thing ... Spring Workshop is right around the corner!  Angie Gheesling and the rest of her "Tribal Council" (aka Committee) are working on some daring programs, creative challenges and entertaining programming for the event.  The 32nd Annual Spring Workshop will be held May 18-20, 2011 at Sea Palms on St Simons Island. To make your hotel reservations, go to Sea Palms and click on the Reservations link.  Enter the dates of the event and Economic as the Group Code.  You will then be able to secure a room at our guaranteed group rate (anywhere from $139 to $189, depending on your room preferences.) What's the Newest, Biggest, Best Thing? What Are We Missing? GEDA is constantly striving to offer our members the best.  The best speakers, the best programs, the best professional development, the best networking, the best website. What are we missing?  What do you need from us?  Who should our next speaker be?  Who should it NOT be?  What topics should we cover at luncheons or Conferences?  What features should we add to the website? This is YOUR association.  We want to make it better than the best.  But we need your help!  Email us with ANY suggestions.  We're listening ...

February 2011 Newsletter

Featured Articles NEW www.geda.org Feb & March Luncheons Legislative Update GEDA Apparel Site Spring Workshop Rooms Available TAG: Innovative Companies Award 2011 Events Calendar New Members Legislative Day a Success Scholarships Available GEDA Apparel Site Valentine's Day Shopping Made Easy GEDA has partnered with ECS Promotions to bring you an exciting new feature - the GEDA Apparel Site.  Now you can order all of those hats, shirts and bags with GEDA logos.  There is no better Valentine's Day gift for your boo than something from the GEDA Store. Blankets, t-shirts, towels, robes, fleece, jackets, briefcases, coolers, backpacks, scarves, Spring Workshop Room Block is Available! GEDA Descends on St Simons Island, May 18-20 GEDA is very excited to take our Spring Workshop to the Sea Palms Resort on St. Simons Island.  The Conference runs from May 18-20, 2011 (but you can certainly come down on Tuesday the 17th!) To make sure you're in our room block and get our negotiated rate, use the Group Code "Economic" when making your reservation.  The BEST way to reserve your room is by going to Sea Palms and clicking on the RESERVATIONS tab.  Make sure to enter the word "Economic" in the Group Code box (not Promo/Corporate Code) and you'll get our rates.  Or, you can call 800.841.6268 and still use "Economic" as the group code. Don't delay - make that reservation today! Georgia's Top 40 Innovative Companies TAG is accepting applications for the award The Technology Association of Georgia (TAG) is encouraging companies across the state to apply for the Top 40 Innovative Companies in Georgia Award.   Recipients will receive special recognition at the Georgia Technology Summit on March 23rd, along with a host of other benefits: Recognition in the Summit program Invitation to special receptions Great media exposure and more! Click on the link above to apply for one of your local companies.  For more information contact Denniz Zakas, Barbara Martin or Melanie Brandt.

The NEW and Improved www.geda.org We have been leaking information for months about the new www.geda.org.  And now it's finally here!!  Hopefully many of you have had the chance to see the updates that we have for you.  If you have not had a chance to log in to the site in the past two weeks, you will need to go in and change your passwords.  Yes - in order to make this transition - we had to change everyone's password.  Your username has NOT changed.  Your password was changed back to GEDA (case-sensitive.)  You will be prompted to change that password to something else the first time you log in.  Please make sure to keep this password in a safe place so that you can continue to log in.  (Hint - some of our new features require members-only access.  It's super-secret James Bond sorta stuff!)  Everyone should have received two emails in the past two weeks outlining information about how to log in.  If you did not receive these emails, please contact us at 404-962-4110. Here are some features of the new Member Portal Page.  This has a great deal of vital information for you and many of the areas of the site that you typically view first anyway.   About You: includes your membership status, links to update your profile & change your password, etc. News:  Any news items that we add will be shown here.  We'll place timely, relevent items for easy access. Upcoming Events: This will display the next FIVE (5) GEDA events.  Those available for registration will have the word "Register" out to the right.  SUPER BIG NEW FEATURE - if you have already registered for the event, it will say "You are registered."  Now you can always know whether or not you've already taken care of it!! Committees: This shows hyperlinks to any Committees you're currently participating on.  Click on the linkc for a list of the Committee Members.  If you are not currently on any Committees, click here for an easy way to join! Directories: we have added Directories that are specifically tailored for YOU!  You should see three links here: Active members (our membership directory), Members in My County (will open an Excel Spreadsheet with all members in YOUR county) and Region __ Members.  This is a list of all members in your region. Invoices and Receipts: This section shows any open invoices that we have for you.  Or, if you have made recent payments, you can find receipts here!  Please keep in mind that we are still populating this area and may not have all membership dues invoices in here yet.   February and March Programs Registration is Now Available GEDA has finalized plans for the first two luncheons of 2011. Monday, February 21, 2011 - GEDA welcomes Georgia Chamber of Commerce President & CEO to the luncheon.  The program will be held at the Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center.  Registration is now open!  Early bird deadline is THIS FRIDAY the 11th.  Register now to save $5. Monday, March 21, 2011 - GEDA will welcome Governor Nathan Deal to our program at the Hotel Palomar.  Registration will be available very soon.  Space will be limited, so make sure to registration early to ensure your spot. We are VERY pleased to announce that our Sponsorship Committee, chaired by RIcky McGee, has been able to secure a sponsor for both events - and it's the same company!!!  The Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce will sponsor both the February and March programs!  Huge thank you to Hans Gant and the entire team at the Metro Atlanta Chamber! Legislative Update #4 Here is our fourth weekly Legislative Update from Jim Finch regarding the happenings under the Gold Dome.  Please remember that if you have particular thoughts, concerns, comments, opinions on any of the bills or resolutsions mentioned in these updates, it is very important to call your Senators and Representatives to let them know how you feel. As always, you can see all of our updates for 2011 by logging on and going to the Public Policy Committee documents page. And, for a refresher course on GEDA's Public Policy Agenda for 2011, please refer to our Public Policy Committee Page.

2011 Events Calendar February 21  Luncheon at Georgia Tech Hotel.  Chris Clark speaking.  March 21  Luncheon at Hotel Palomar.  Governor Nathan Deal speaking. Welcome New Members Emily Boness, UGA Fanning Institute Robert Crowe, Elkins Constructors Danielle Fernandes, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce Kevin Gullette, Clayton County Office of Economic Development Melissa Hamby, Fannin County Board of Commissioners David Keating, Camden County Joint Development Authority Shannon Nettles, Camden County Joint Development Authority Paige Shiver, Mitchell County Development Authority Tom Turner, Meriwether County Development Authority GEDA Legislative Day a HUGE Success! January 26 was Economic Development Day in Georgia GEDA representatives and their guests had a great day at the Capitol on January 26th for GEDA Legislative Day.  After a photo with Governor Deal and lots of interaction with elected officials (including Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle and Secretary of State Brian Kemp), we hosted over 60 Legislators, not including their staff and guests!  That was a fantastic turnout and significantly higher than what we have seen in recent years with our evening reception.  Thank you to everyone who braved the cold and wind to come to Atlanta and help share our message with the Legislators.  We observed many more meaningful conversations about real issues this year, which means now is the time to follow up on that and encourage our elected officials to Scholarships Available We have money and we'd like to give it away! GEDA has over $10,000 in scholarship money to give this year.  In answer to your question, YES!  You are eligible.  If you are a dues paying member of GEDA, you qualify!  It cannot hurt to apply, so send us an application today! All of the forms can be found on the Professional Development Committee Page.  We offer scholarships for: Georgia Tech Basic Economic Development Course (3/29 - 4/1) IEDC Courses - throughout the year EDFP Training - throughout the year CEcD Exam GEDA Spring Workshop (May 18-20) GEDA Annual Conference (September 21-23) International Trade Missions

January 2011 Newsletter

Featured Articles GEDA Welcomes Chris Cummiskey 2011 Legislative Day Membership Renewals Sneak Peak at the New Website 2011 Job Tax Credit Rankings Annie Hunt Burriss Award 2011 Events Calendar New Members Duane Dodson Farewell Sneak Peak at the New Website! Will be Available February 1 We have been teasing you with the new website for a few months now.  Well, Candice and I are putting the finishing touches on it right now.  At the beginning of February, you will see some changes at geda.org! Click here to see a screen shot of the new Member Portal Page.  (Note: this page is from another group that uses the same system.)  You'll see 6 main areas highlighted that will offer great new capabilities and benefits for our paying members, like: Easy way to update your profile Your current committees Important News List of upcoming events Custom searches Print your own receipts and invoices! 2011 Job Tax Credit Rankings DCA Releases Rankings for 2011 The Department of Community Affairs has released the Job Tax Credit Ranking details for all interested.  There are several links that may be of interest to you: JTC Memo with Less Developed Census Tracts 2011 County Tier Map Additional Information For more information, please contact Brian Williamson at 404-679-1587 or Dawn Sturbaum at 404-679-1585. Annie Hunt Burriss Wins Award Presented at GaBio Annual Awards Dinner - January 20th Past GEDA Chair Annie Hunt Burriss will be presented with the 2011 Georgia Bio Industry Growth Award.  The award will be presented at the Annual Awards Dinner on January 20th at the Fox Theater in Atlanta. From Georgia Bio: The Industry Growth Awards are the highest honors bestowed each year by Georgia Bio (GaBio.)  They recognize individuals in the public and private sectors who have made extraordinary contributions to the growth of Georgia's life sciences industry.  Dr. Burriss is the recipient from the public sector. Congratulations to Annie Hunt Burris!

GEDA Welcomes Commissioner Chris Cummiskey Gov.-elect Nathan Deal announced that he will present Chris Cummiskey as his choice for commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development.   Governor-elect Nathan Deal has chosen Chris Cummiskey as his nominee for the post of Economic Development commissioner.  The GCEcD board unanimously approved the nominee at the meeting on December 2, 2010 in West Point.   "Chris brings both private and public sector experience to the table; he knows how the state must balance good public services - particularly education - with the need to maintain a strong business climate," Deal said. "I've said throughout Georgia that I'll serve as the state's chief salesman as governor. That's the vision and talent that Chris will bring to this position. We have an excellent product to sell; Chris is the partner I need to bring industry and jobs to our state and kickstart our economic growth - my No. 1 priority as governor of Georgia."   Cummiskey joined the University of Georgia as the Director of State Relations in 2008.  In this role he represents the university in matters with state government offices and is the primary liaison with state officials.  Chris will begin working with GDEcD on January 10, 2011.   Prior to joining the university, Cummiskey served as the chief of staff for Georgia House Speaker Glenn Richardson.  In that position, he oversaw House research and communications staff as well as all administrative staff.  Previously, he was the state director for U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson for three years. As the state director, he worked with the Georgia General Assembly, the governor's office, local officials and Georgia businesses on matters relating to the federal government.     After graduating from UGA, Cummiskey worked for eight years with energy companies in Georgia, California and Texas managing their energy trading desks.    Cummiskey and his wife Rebecca live in Sandy Springs.    SPECIAL RECEPTION!  GEDA is co-sponsoring a special welcome reception for Chris.  AND YOU ARE INVITED!  The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce will host this reception on Tuesday, January 18 from 6-8PM at the Gwinnett Chamber.  (6500 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, GA 30097.)  See the attached flyer or go to the registration page.  The best part is ... registration is FREE for GEDA members!   GEDA Legislative Day at the Capitol Registration is Now Available The GEDA Legislative Day at the Capitol is just a few weeks away.  The registration form is now open and available!  Follow this link to register today.   As a reminder, you are your guests will still register like a normal luncheon (although this is separate from the prepaid meals options.)  The price is $30 per person, however we are going to cover that fee for our legislators.  Many communities are using this opportunity to bring their local leadership team to the Capitol for a mini-Legislative Day.  This event will provide an excellent forum for you to bring your local Board members, County & City Commissioners and other leaders to Atlanta to meet with your Georgia General Assembly representatives.   We encourage you to contact your legislators as soon as you can and personally invite them to the lunch.  Please make sure that they know that the lunch is free for them and they can come for as long or short as they'd like.  It's a drop-in style lunch from 11:30 until 1:30.  Thanks in advance for your help! Membership Renewals Renewal season is in full swing!  As you'll see from the fancy graphic to the left, over half of you have already renewed your membership for 2011.  For that, we say THANK YOU!  That needle is currently in the yellow.  I'd love to see us get into the green by the end of January and tipping up past 100% by the end of February.  Can we do it?? Of course we can!   Tell all of your GEDA friends that they need to renew.  Find some colleagues that may have allowed their memberships to lapse in past years that they need to come back!  GEDA is just going to get better as we approach our 50th Annual Conference.  NOW is the time to get involved and help us be the best Association we can.! Let's move that needle PAST the green!

2011 Events Calendar January 18  Georgia Leadership Welcome Reception for GDEcD Commissioner Chris Cummiskey.  Register here.  (Free for GEDA members!) January 26  Legislative Day at the Capitol February 21  Luncheon at Georgia Tech Hotel March 21  Luncheon at Hotel Palomar Welcome New Members Todd Barton, CB Richard Ellis Vicki Coleman, Fulton County Government Mike Donnelly, Georgia Power Company Tommy Guthrie, Atkinson County Winston Haynes, CB Richard Ellis Brittany Holtzclaw, Gwinnett Chamber Economic Development Duane Dodson Retiring Leaving Georgia Power After 42 Years The following is a message from Duane Dodson, who has just retired after over four decades of service to Georgia Power.  GEDA wishes Duane the best in his retirement!   To all my friends at GEDA, Effective January 1, 2011, I will retire for Georgia Power with 42 years of service.  Over the 16+ years I have made many Community and Economic Development friends across the state -- through my association with the Georgia Economic Developers Association.  The professionalism shown and knowledge shared have been greatly appreciated, but most of all I thank you for your friendship! My contact information as of January 1 will be: Duane Dodson 2301 E Doublegate Drive Albany, GA 31721 duanedodson@gmail.com 229-869-5250 Best regards, Duane NEW GEDA Leadership January 1 means that the new slate of Officers, Directors and Committee Chairs have taken office.  Take a look at the updated list online. Also - we are updating Committee pages with the new contact information and Action Plans.  They should all be complete within the next few days, so check those out and find the perfect Committee for you to join.  It's the #1 way to get involved with GEDA!

December 2010 Newsletter

Featured Articles Letter from the Chairman January Legislative Day Membership Renewals 2011 Sponsorship Opportunities 2011 Legislative Priorities Atlanta Business Chronicle State of the State GEDA Holiday Hours Savannah Harbor Deepening 2011 Events Calendar New Members  2011 Sponsorships Available Act FAST Before They're All Gone! Each year GEDA offers sponsorship opportunities for events. We have sold out of monthly luncheon sponsorships for each of the past three years.  We are almost always full on Platinum Sponsorships at our Conferences.   NOW is the time to contact the Sponsorship Committee to reserve your spot for 2011! Our sponsorship brochure is available online, of course. Pick out your marketing niche for next year and let us know! Legislative Priorities Major Themes for 2011 The 2011 Legislative Session is right around the corner.  it is time once again for GEDA and its members to educate our elected officials as to what our Legislative Priorities are for 2011.  The following is a brief list of what the Board has drafted for 2011.  PLEASE LET US KNOW if you think these are the right issues for GEDA to be pursuing this year: Increased funding mechanisms for transportation (including the port deepening.) New competitive incentives Increased appropriations for REBA, One Georgia, Quick Start and ICAPP. Prospect information and competitiveness.  (Timely release of prospect information) Funding for vital state programs and departments GEDA Partners with Atlanta Business Chronicle EXCITING State of the State Issue Coming Soon Atlanta Business Chronicle is proud to introduce its first State of the State special section, which will be devoted to covering nine key areas of Georgia: Albany/Tifton, Augusta, Columbus/ West Point/ LaGrange, Dalton/ Rome/ Cartersville, Gainesville/ Athens, Macon/ Warner Robins, Savannah/ Brunswick, Valdosta and Metro Atlanta. This section represents a unique opportunity to advance your area's key economic and demographic strengths, positioning it as a major player for for new business attraction and company relocations/ expansions.  With the vast majority of the 210,000 readers being business owners or top management, you can believe all eyes will be glued to this important section.  It's a powerful place to run an ad that positions your company as a player for 2011 and beyond. For more information, click here and contact the Atlanta Business Chronicle.   GEDA Offices Closed Holiday Office Hours GEDA Offices will be closed for the holidays on the following days: Thursday, December 23 Friday, December 24 Monday, January 3   Savannah Harbor Expansion Project Your Comments Needed ASAP The US Army Corps of Engineers has released its study documents for the Harbor Deepening.  (This project must occur to be able to allow for the new larger ships to access Georgia's ports.)  There is absolutely no doubt that this is a VITAL project for all of Georgia. The Army Corps is now open to receiving formal comments on the project.  They need to know why the public thinks that deepening the river to 48 feet is a good idea.  NOW is the time to submit your comments! The deadline for comments is January 10, 2011.  Please send comments via email or snail mail to: Mr. William Bailey ATTN: PD, US Army Corps of Engineers, Savannah District 100 West Oglethorpe Boulevard Savannah, GA 31401-3640 To read more on the project, click here.

A Look Back at 2010 - Chairman Pat Topping It’s December, 2010 is almost gone and I know you hear this every year, especially when you get to my age, but “Man, where did the year go?” 2010 was another busy year for GEDA as we continue to strive to fulfill our mission to “promote and provide networking and professional development opportunities and to shape public policy issues that relate to economic development” for our 700 members.   Nearly 2,000 of you attended our monthly luncheons, Spring Workshop, Annual Conference and Legislative Reception.  Bob Simmons, Development Authority of Fulton County and Timothy Wang, Alston and Bird conducted the first comprehensive review of our By-Laws in several years.  Substantial changes were made to modernize your org anization and our processes.  Approved by the membership at the May Spring Workshop, the new By-Laws better reflect the corporate world we operate in.  Bob White, Henry County Development Authority, will be your new Chairman, formerly President, in January while Mike Pennington assumes the title of President, formerly Executive Director.  Your new By-Laws are posted on our web site. We bid Chevelle Wilson good luck in her new venture with the Federal Reserve of Atlanta and welcomed Candice Crossfield as our new Manager, Member Services professional.  2010 presented challenges for our state and for our members.  Economic pressures have forced many of us to reconsider how we allocate resources.  Your Officers and Board understand that and pledge to continue tooffer our members value in our programming, events and our activities.  Our fiscal house is in good order, despite declining membership revenues. However, Spring Workshop and Annual Conference continue to be very successful events.  All of the thanks go to JoAnne Lewis, Douglas-Coffee County Chamber and Development Authority, Misti Martin, Cherokee Office of Economic Development, their committees and our sponsors.  The Sponsorship Committee led by Missy Kendrick, Barnesville-Lamar County DA, blew it away this year, thanks to all the many different sponsors for your support this year and in the past.  Your Officers, Board and staff will continue to work next year to make sure our programs and activities are timely, relevant to our profession, provide networking opportunities and are fiscally sound. 2011 will present a unique set of opportunities for GEDA.  Many new General Assembly members and a new Commissioner at the Department of Economic Development make it even more vital that GEDA work with our partners to maintain Georgia’s pro-business posture that will encourage our existing companies and allow us to attract new business and industry to our state.  Now more than ever GEDA needs to reinforce our role as the ‘leading economic development organization’ in the nation. The GEDA family passes along our thanks and best wishes to outgoing Commissioner Heidi Green.  Partnering with Georgia Power, Georgia EMC, Electric Cities of Georgia, our communities and others, Team Georgia, we have added over 18,000 new jobs resulting in over $3.4 billion new investment in the last fiscal year.  The most important thing we do, that which brings us the most amount of satisfaction in our jobs is finding someone a job. I want to personally thank the Officers, Board, staff and the membership for your support during my term as President now Chairman of our great organization.  We do make a difference in Georgia and we should be proud. Pat Topping, soon to be Past Chairman  Legislative Day at the Capitol We have completely changed the format for the GEDA Legislative Day at the Capitol on January 26, 2011 Over the past several years, GEDA has joined dozens of other communities, groups and associations in hosting an Annual Legislative Reception in January.  These events must be planned literally months in advance in order to reserve the prime event facilities.  However, each of the past three years have seen the Legislature go into recess unexpectedly during the time that we host our reception.  Obviously, that has been a major factor in our decreasing attendance at the event in recent years. As such, GEDA has decided to completely change how we handle the event this year!  Instead of an evening reception, we will revert to an event centered around lunch, like we used to do years ago.  This time, we are working to create the BEST opportunities for one-on-one time for YOU and YOUR legislators.  The day will start with some photo opportunities in the Capitol Building as early as 10:00 am (details are still to be finalized.)  ALL GEDA MEMBERS are encouraged to send personal invitations to YOUR legislators between now and the event, inviting them to lunch.  GEDA will provide the food for the event; Legislators will enjoy the meal free of charge; GEDA members and guests will pay a fee to enjoy lunch.  We have a room set up right next to the Capitol that will serve as the luncheon venue.  Instead of everyone descending on that room at once and fighting for food and space, we will encourage people to come on THEIR schedules, so we will be able to accommodate much larger groups of people. This is a drastic change from what we have done in the past and I know that some of it may seem confusing.  But here are the MAIN details to remember: You are encouraged to invite your legislators to lunch,  We will help you deliver GEDA's message to the Legislators, regarding our Legislative Priorities for 2011 (see the article at left),  We will have the ability for photo opportunities that morning in the Capitol and then at lunch as well,  You will register for the event in much the same way that you normally register for luncheons, You are certainly encouraged to bring guests! More information will be coming to you shortly on this event.  But go ahead and mark your calendars for Wednesday, January 26th!  We will send registration information out very soon. Membership Renewals All members should have recently received an e-mail regarding your Dues Renewal.  Renewal is very simple!  Go to the Renewal Page and follow the simple steps.  (You will need to log into the system to do this.  As a reminder, GEDA cannot see your passwords.  If you cannot remember your password, you will need to click the "Forgot Password" link on the login screen.)  Once logged in, you can choose your membership type and whether or not you'd like to prepay for the 7 luncheons in 2011.  (A savings of $25!)   You can either choose to pay online with a credit card or you can choose to "Pay by Invoice."  From this point, you can print an invoice and then mail a check into the GEDA Offices.  We look forward to your continued support of the state's leading professional association dedicated to enhancing Georgia's economic vitality!

2011 Events Calendar January 26  Legislative Day at the Capitol February 21  Luncheon at Georgia Tech Hotel March 21  Luncheon at Hotel Palomar April 18  Luncheon.  Location TBD. May 18-20  SPRING WORKSHOP at Sea Palms - St Simons Island June 20  Luncheon at Georgia Tech Hotel July  NO PROGRAM August 15  Luncheon at Hotel Palomar September 21-23  ANNUAL CONFERENCE at Savannah Riverfront Marriott October 17  Luncheon.  Location TBD.  November 14  Luncheon.  Location TBD.  December  NO PROGRAM Welcome New Members Jeremy Corbett, Evans General Contractors Shayla Harris, City of Union City Eric Nicholson, Filter Innovations New and Improved GEDA.ORG! Big Changes Coming in Early 2011 Be on the lookout for more information about the new and improved GEDA.ORG.  Our web services company is adding a great deal more functionality and YOU will be the beneficiary! The look will not change all that much for now, but we will add a lot more power, better search functions and some new pages that YOU have been asking for! We will add a "Member Portal" page that will have a great deal of your personal GEDA information it, including: Events you have registered for, And payments that are due Receipts for past payments Invoices for events Log in information Biographical information Photographs MUCH more!! This page will be the place to go to answer many of your questions, saving you the time it takes to email or call GEDA.  (Of course, we still welcome that contact from you!) We will also be adding a new store feature, where you can order GEDA-logo shirts, hats, bags - you can do all of your holiday and birthday shopping with us!I know your loved ones will be ecstatic to unwrap a GEDA shirt! All of this (and a great deal more) will be coming your way soon.  Keep watching this space for more details.    Have An Idea? Is there a topic you think we should cover in the Gazette?  Is there something missing from our website?  What can we do to make your membership experience better? Email us and let us know!     HAPPY HOLIDAYS!! Candice and Mike would like to thank the GEDA members for what you do each and every day.  You make our world a better place and provide jobs and wealth for Georgians.  We continue to be thankful for all that you mean to us.   Here's wishing you a  WONDERFUL HOLIDAY SEASON AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR! We look forward to what should be a fantastic 2011!

November 2010 Newsletter

Featured Articles Election Day! November Luncheon 2010 Scholarship Recipients Renew Your Membership Economic Development Law Seminar (ICLE) Georgia Work Ready Summit New Members New GEDA.ORG Coming Soon Renew Your Membership! Avoid the Rush - Renew today! DID YOU KNOW that you can renew your membership any time between now and the end of the year and it will count for 2011?  That's right!  If you go online and renew, you won't have to worry about dues again until late 2011!  This can be particularly helpful if you have some budget room remaining in 2010 and would like to go ahead and pay your dues for nest year now. Click on the link and the system will guide you through the process.  As always, let us know if you have any questions! Economic Development Law in Georgia GEDA Partners with ICLE GEDA is excited to announce that we will co-sponsor the Institute of Continuing Legal Education in Georgia's (ICLE) "Economic Development Law in Georgia seminar.  On Thursday, December 2nd, ICLE will host this program at the State Bar of Georgia.  Come and hear from industry experts like Brian Williamson, Dan McRae, John Gornall, Bob Simmons and MORE! IMPORTANT NOTE!  This program qualifies for EIGHT HOURS of credit for Development Authority Board Member training. Click here to see the flyer for the program and to see the full agenda. Georgia Work Ready Summit 2011 and Beyond Georgia Work Ready Summit provides a look ahead at Georgia's plan for continued growth and innovation.  It delivers information on the benefits of the Work Ready initiative to job seekers, businesses and communities.  The summit also serves as an opportunity to honor Governor Sonny Perdue for his leadership in building one of the leading workforce development initiatives in the country.  Summit attendees are automatically registered for the awards luncheon. Georgia Work Ready Awards Luncheon is the annual time for the Governor's Office of Workforce Development to honor the partners, businesses and individuals who have achieved success with the initiative. Click here to learn more about the event and to register.  The event is on December 8-9 and will be held at the Atlanta Hilton.

Election Day is Here! November 2nd is election day!  There are so many big stories that could come out of these elections.  The only way to make your voice heard is to get out there and vote!  Federal, State, Local, Constitutional Amendments, Statewide Referendum ... there is so much to decide! First, the Georgia Secretary if State's Office has launched a new voter service called "MVP."  My Voter Page is exactly that - it is a one-stop shop to know everything about your personal election day needs.  Log in to this site and you will be directed to customized information for election day, including: - Your voter information - Your polling place - A list of all qualified candidates that will appear on your ballot - Information on Constitutional Amendments and Statewide Referendums You can't complain about the outcomes if you don't get out there and vote! There are five Constitutional Amendments and one referendum this year.  Click here to read an Atlanta Journal-Constitution article about the different votes.  (As a reminder, GEDA does not favor votes in either direction.  We ask you to make informed decisions about what is best for business and growth in Georgia.) November Luncheon The November Luncheon will take place on November 15th - just two weeks away!  We will be at the Georgia Tech Hotel and Conference Center, directly across the street from the Centergy Office Building.  This month, we are very pleased to welcome Brad Bryant, Georgia State School Superintendent.   Among other topics, Mr. Bryant will cover the progress Georgia has made in education recently (especially the recent announcement that high school graduation rates are at an all=-time high - over 80%!!)  We can also learn more about Georgia receiving $400 million in the Race to the Top program and what we can expect those funds to go toward.  There are a lot of exciting things going on in Georgia as relates to education, so you do not want to miss this luncheon.  (And, it's the last time we'll get together as a group this year.) Thank you to the Northwest Georgia Joint Development Authority for sponsoring the November program!   NOTE: For those of you wishing to pay by check, you can STILL register online. When you register online, on the payment screen, you can select "Pay By Check."  This will do two things - it will tell the system that you plan on coming, and it will mark your payment as receivable.  At that point, all you need to do is mail the check and you're done!  No paper forms to fill out! GEDA Scholarship Recipients GEDA has awarded 8 scholarships this year to help support the professional development and continuing education of its members.  Please join us in congratulating the following scholarship recipients: Basic Economic Development Course Scholarship Heath Tippens (Development Authority of Cherokee County) Paul Leath (AGL Resources) David Jones (Macon Economic Development Commission) GEDA Spring Workshop Scholarship Paula Herrington (Jenkins County Chamber of Commerce & Development Authority) International Trade Missions Scholarship Angie Gheesling (Milledgeville-Baldwin County Development Authority) GEDA Annual Meeting Scholarship Jeanie Boland (Brantley County Development Authority) IEDC Training Course Scholarship Yvonne (Susie) Haggard (Georgia Department of Economic Development) J. R. Charles (Thomaston-Upson County Industrial Development Authority)  GEDA still has more scholarship opportunities available including scholarships for Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP) courses, the CEcD Exam, International Trade Missions, and the Penn Worden Grant.  *APPLICATIONS* for 2010 awards and scholarships can be found on the Professional Development Committee section of GEDA’s website.  For more information, contact Committee Chair Leah Brown.

Upcoming Events November 15 - Monthly Luncheon at the Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center. December 2 - ICLE "Economic Development Law in Georgia" seminar December 8-9 - Georgia Work Ready Summit Welcome New Members Jeremy Corbett, Evans General Contractors Shayla Harris, City of Union City Eric Nicholson, Filter Innovations New and Improved GEDA.ORG! Big Changes Coming in Early 2011 Be on the lookout for more information about the new and improved GEDA.ORG.  Our web services company is adding a great deal more functionality and YOU will be the beneficiary! The look will not change all that much for now, but we will add a lot more power, better search functions and some new pages that YOU have been asking for! We will add a "Member Portal" page that will have a great deal of your personal GEDA information it, including: Events you have registered for, And payments that are due Receipts for past payments Invoices for events Log in information Biographical information Photographs MUCH more!! This page will be the place to go to answer many of your questions, saving you the time it takes to email or call GEDA.  (Of course, we still welcome that contact from you!) We will also be adding a new store feature, where you can order GEDA-logo shirts, hats, bags - you can do all of your holiday and birthday shopping with us!I know your loved ones will be ecstatic to unwrap a GEDA shirt! All of this (and a great deal more) will be coming your way soon.  Keep watching this space for more details. Have An Idea? Is there a topic you think we should cover in the Gazette?  Is there something missing from our website?  What can we do to make your membership experience better? Email us and let us know!