the Chamber's twice monthly e-newsletter

President's Message

Welcome to The Phoenix, the Chamber’s e-newsletter.

In this issue, hear how metro Atlanta leads the nation in population growth, and how the fast-growth trend is expected to continue.

You'll also learn about a diverse group of 17 top business leaders who have been named to serve on the Greater Grady Task force, created by the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce at the request of the board of directors of the Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority.

Learn the status of transportation legislation, and join us as we kick off the 2007 Chairman's Campaign led by Scott Fisher, Atlanta regional president of Wachovia Bank.

Thanks for reading. We will continue to keep you informed on the issues you care about.

Sincerely,

Sam A. Williams
President
Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce

Hot Topics

Metro Atlanta Leads the Nation in Population Growth

Metro Atlanta added more people than any metro in the nation from 2000 to 2006 -- with a 20 percent increase -- according to the latest figures released Thursday, April 5, by the U.S. Census Bureau.

“There's an old saying: ‘If it's true, you ain't bragging,'” said Sam A. Williams, president of the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce in a statement on Thursday, April 5. “Well, when it comes to buzz about Atlanta , it is all true.”

Williams continued: “We've got the world's busiest airport, the third-highest concentration of Fortune 500 companies in the nation, cutting-edge research universities that attract young professionals from all over the globe, the lowest cost of doing business in the nation -- and plenty of sunshine. Combine all that with the fact that Atlanta is the business capital of the Southeast, and it's easy to see why people are coming here in droves.”

Over the last six years, metro Atlanta has added an average of more than 142,000 people annually, edging out metros such as Dallas ; Houston ; Phoenix ; Riverside , Calif ; Los Angeles ; Washington , D.C. , New York ; Miami and Chicago .

Much of this growth is attributed to the young, college-educated professionals who have moved to the area. Demographers call this group the “Young and Restless.” The “Young and Restless” are the most sought-after talent in the country. Cities want them for their economic future. Companies want their knowledge and talent. And Atlanta is leading the nation in attracting them.

By the year 2020, another 2 million people will arrive in metro Atlanta . That is roughly the equivalent of the population of Greater Denver moving to the region -- the largest increase expected in the nation.

In the last 20 years alone, the population has doubled and metro Atlanta has become one of the top job producers in the nation. In 2006, metro Atlanta created more than 60,000 jobs and in 2005 created 70,000 new jobs, making metro Atlanta No. 3 in the country for job creation.

Greater Grady Task Force Holds First Meeting

The task force, which was formed to address the issues that threaten Grady Health System's long-term viability, held its first meeting today, Wednesday, April 11, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce. The meeting was open to the public and media.

“The Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the business leaders it represents have always been willing to take on tough assignments when the community needs them,” said Pamela Stephenson, chair of The Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority. “They've named a first-rate roster of top business leaders to advise Grady during this critical time in its history. We appreciate the business community's willingness to rally around us.”

The task force plans to spend the next 90 days studying Grady Health System's finances, structures and operations before delivering its recommendations. Deloitte has agreed to provide pro-bono professional support for the task force.

“Grady is not only a premier teaching hospital, but a community resource that serves our citizens when we need it most,” Correll said. “This task force wants to identify what unique contribution the business community can make in ensuring Grady's long-term health and success.”

“Grady is a vital part of the fabric of this community,” Russell said. “We all have a vested interest in making sure it remains strong, and that is why you are seeing such a strong response from business leaders willing to commit their time to this important undertaking.”

The Greater Grady Task Force was requested by the hospital authority. In response, the Metro Atlanta Chamber Board of Directors voted on March 15 to create and sponsor the task force.

Greater Grady Task Force Members

H.B. 434 Passes First Hurdle in Committee; Gains More Support

The Sales Tax Subcommittee of the House Ways and Means Committee held its second hearing on H.B. 434 .  After a detailed explanation of the bill—including a few technical amendments—by lead-sponsor Rep. Chuck Martin (R-Alpharetta), the subcommittee voted to report H.B. 434 to the full committee with a “do-pass” recommendation. 

While tax bills are not expected to pass the House of Representatives this session, due largely the PeachCare funding and budget impasses which have dominated the session, the bill is in a great position to move forward next year.  

The bill now has the support of 22 regional and statewide organizations, including the Georgia , August and Savannah chambers of commerce. Because this is the first year of a two-year legislative session, H.B. 434 can be picked up where it left off next year without having to be re-introduced. This is a complex issue and it's not surprising that it will take a two-year legislative cycle to pass.

Chairman's Campaign Kicks Off

The 2007 Chairman's Committee Fundraising Campaign begins Thursday, April 12, with the theme "All Roads Lead to Atlanta." It will be led by Scott Fisher, Atlanta regional president of Wachovia Bank.

The Chairman's Campaign is one of the primary sources of revenue for the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, funding new and existing Chamber programs and initiatives. Volunteers from more than 20 corporate partners in metro Atlanta will sell memberships, advertising and sponsorships from April through August to finish at the $2.9 million goal. Join the Chamber at the Campaign kick-off being held at Wachovia at Atlantic Station on the 10 th floor, Thursday, April 12, from 5:30 - 7 p.m.

Contact Rebecca Brubaker for more information. Please RSVP to: chairmanscampaign@macoc.com

17th Annual A+ Awards Luncheon

Public school teachers, community and business partners honored

Atlanta's top public school teachers and the community and business partners who work with them to help students thrive were honored today, Wednesday, April 11, at the 17th Annual A+ Awards.

For 17 years, the A+ Awards has honored top public school teachers and the community and business partners who work with them to help students thrive. The event is hosted each year by Atlanta Partners for Education, a joint venture between the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and Atlanta Public Schools . Awards are given for teachers of the year and for partnerships between schools, businesses and community organizations in the categories of: Rookie Achievement, Innovative, Collaborative, Magna Cum Laude, Summa Cum Laude and Principal Leadership.

“The leaders of tomorrow are sitting in the classrooms of today,” said Sam A. Williams, president of the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce. “That's why the Chamber is proud to be the door the business community walks through to get involved in education. The Atlanta Partners for Education has engaged more than 200 businesses and 3,700 volunteers to wrap their arms around Atlanta Public Schools. The A+ Awards honor the best of these partnerships.”

"Atlanta Public Schools is fortunate to have strong partnerships throughout the community,” said Atlanta Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Beverly Hall. “ Hundreds of volunteers give generously of their time and resources to help support the school district and the children of Atlanta.  It is an honor to acknowledge these partners during the annual A+ Awards."

Atlanta Public School System's prestigious Teacher of the Year award went to Raine Troy Hackler of Thomasville Heights Elementary School.

Raine T. Hackler of Thomasville Heights Elementary School receives the Teacher of the Year Award at the 17th Annual A+ Awards. Hackler wins the year long use of a 2007 Ford Fusion from Wade Ford, $10,000 in cash from PricewaterhouseCoopers and round-trip, Business Class AirTran Airways tickets.

Small Business Person of the Year Nominations

Since 1986, the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Business Chronicle have honored one outstanding small business professional at the annual Small Business Person of the Year Awards. Arnold Silverman, President of Silverman Construction Program Management, was named Atlanta 's 2006 Small Business Person of the Year as the Annual Small Business Person of the Year Awards celebrated its 20th year.

Small businesses are a critical sector. Of the more than 130,000 total businesses in metro Atlanta, 94.8 percent employ fewer than 50 people.

Past award winners have included: Bryan Kujawski, President, 360i.com; Michael Kogon, CEO, Definition 6; Oscar Harris, Chairman and Founder, Turner Associates Architects & Planners; Claire Arnold, CEO, Leapfrog Services and Dan O'Leary, President, O'Leary Partners.

To qualify, nominees are required to be a primary owner or a major shareholder of a business that has been locally established for at least three years with gross annual revenues not exceeding $40 million. They are also required to be a member in good standing of the Chamber and an active member of the community.

This year's sponsors include AirTran Airways, AT&T, WABE-FM 90.1, IBM and Exact Target. The 21st Annual Small Business Person of the Year Awards luncheon will take place on Friday, June 8, at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in the newly re-opened Imperial Ballroom from noon -1:30 p.m. Tickets are available for Metro Atlanta Chamber members for $45 and can be purchased by emailing Beth Goette at events@macoc.com or by calling 404.586.8429.

We are accepting applications now for the 2007 Small Business Person of the Year.

Atlanta Lands Cargo Route

Cargolux Airlines International S.A., Europe 's largest cargo-only carrier, began twice-weekly Atlanta and Luxemburg flights on March 29. The Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce through the Atlanta Logistics Innovation Council continues to work alongside Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to attract additional international cargo carriers and routes. 

“This route represents another bridge for global trade to flow to and from Atlanta and the Southeast,” said Bob Pertierra, vice president of logistics industry expansion for the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce. “We are excited about the continued growth in international cargo which will ultimately translate into jobs for metro Atlanta.”

Cargolux Airlines receives a water gun salute for its inaugural arrival into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

Kevin Green to be New Executive Director of the Clean Air Campaign

Kevin Green has been selected to be the new executive director of the Clean Air Campaign effective June 1, 2007. 

Kevin's leadership and contributions to the Chamber over his 7-year tenure have been invaluable.  As a key member of the Chamber staff, Kevin has led some of the Chamber's most successful and high-impact efforts like the Clean Water Initiative and the Quality Growth Task Force.  His unique set of skills – coalition builder, great communicator and consummate diplomat – motivated business leaders and partner organizations alike to tackle complex issues.  Kevin's start date of June 1 will allow a smooth transition and enable the Chamber to continue the important environmental work for which he has so deftly laid the groundwork.  

Chamber president Sam A. Williams said it in a statement: "The name ‘ Kevin Green ' has become synonymous with leadership in engaging business leaders to effectively improve the environment -- and we have benefited from Kevin's leadership for seven years.  While we are sad to see him move on, we are pleased that he will continue to be a great partner with us in his new role at the Clean Air Campaign, an organization the Chamber helped create and continues to support.”   

John Somerhalder, President and CEO, AGL Resources and vice chair of the Chamber's environmental policy committee, added:  “Kevin has been a true leader.  Thanks to his groundwork, the Chamber remains committed to a strong environmental policy agenda that calls on the region's leaders to manage the natural resources we depend upon for quality lives and quality growth.”

Sports Corner

Naismith Award Honors Basketball’s Finest

The Atlanta Tipoff Club held the most prestigious basketball awards program in the nation, the Naismith Awards Banquet, on Thursday, April 5. The Naismith Awards program has become an emblem of excellence for the game, recognizing the men's and women's college players and coaches of the year, as well as awards for outstanding achievement in basketball, officiating, and overall contribution to basketball.

In 1969, the Atlanta Tipoff Club created the Naismith Trophy. Named in honor of Dr. James Naismith, founder of the game of basketball, the Naismith Trophy presented by AT&T is awarded annually to the male and female college players of the year. Lew Alcindor (UCLA), later known as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, won the first Naismith Trophy in 1969.

At the season-ending Naismith Awards Banquet, the Atlanta Tipoff Club recognized the following:

• Men's and Women's College Players of the Year
• Men's and Women's Coaches of the Year
• Men's and Women's Outstanding Contribution to the game
• College and High School officials
• State of Georgia and Metro Atlanta players, coaches, administrators and officials

2006-2007 Naismith Award Winners:

• Women's College Coach of the Year – Gail Goestenkors – Duke
• Men's College Coach of the Year – Tony Bennett – Washington State
• Women's College Player of the Year – Lindsey Harding – Duke
• Men's College Player of the Year – Kevin Durant – Texas
• Women's College Official of the Year – Tina Napier
• Men's College Official of the Year – John Cahill
• Female High School Player of the Year – Maya Moore – Collins Hill High School - Suwanee, GA
• Male High School Player of the Year – Kevin Love – Lake Oswego High School – Lake Oswego , OR
• Women's Outstanding Contributor – Coach Kay Yow – North Carolina State
• Men's Outstanding Contributor – Coach Bob Knight – Texas Tech
• Bobby Cremins Female High School Coach of the Year – Tracy Tipton – Collins Hill High School – Suwanee, GA
• Bobby Cremins Male High School Coach of the Year – Eddie Martin – Norcross High School – Norcross, GA
• Miss Georgia Basketball - Maya Moore – Collins Hill High School - Suwanee, Ga.
• Mr. Georgia Basketball – Gani Lawal - Norcross HS – Norcross , Ga.
• Georgia Women's College Player of the Year – Tasha Humphrey – University of Georgia
• Georgia Men's College Player of the Year – Tyrekus “AJ” Bowman – Augusta State
• Whack Hyder Women's College Coach of the Year – MaChelle Joseph – Georgia Tech
• Whack Hyder Men's College Coach of the Year – Gordon Gibbons – Clayton State
• Steve Schmidt Women's Outstanding Contributor to Basketball – Jackie Bradford
• Steve Schmidt Men's Outstanding Contributor to Basketball – Bob Chambers
• Metro Atlanta Girls High School Player of the Year – Kelley Cain – St. Pius X High School
• Metro Atlanta Boys High School Player of the Year – Chris Allen – Meadowcreek High School
• Bob Eskew Outstanding Sportsmanship Award – Marist High School
• Charlie Bloodworth High School Official of the Year – Kevin Self
• Charlie Bloodworth High School Official of the Year – Patrick Graham
• Garland F. Pinholser Girls High School Coach of the Year – Stephanie Dunn – St. Pius X High School
• Garland F. Pinholser Boys High School Coach of the Year – James Hartry – Tucker High School

Chamber Events

April

18 Wednesday
Member Reception
Members are invited to join our board of director members as they host business-to-business networking at its best.
Time:5:30-7:00 p.m.
Noon-1 p.m. Lunch/Networking
Location: Home Depot Corporate Office
2455 Paces Ferry Rd, Atlanta, GA 30339
Hosted by: Brad Shaw, SVP, Corporate Communications & External Affairs, The Home Depot
RSVP Required

May

2 Wednesday
Member Orientation
Members are invited to this monthly session to learn the ways to get the most out of their Chamber investment.
Time: 10:15 a.m. Registration/Networking
10:45 a.m. Program
Lunch Sponsor: Honey Baked Ham
Location: Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce
235 Andrew Young International Blvd, Board Room
RSVP Required

16 Wednesday
Member Reception
Members are invited to join our board of director members as they host business-to-business networking at its best.
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Hosted by: Robert Hays, Chairman, King & Spalding
Non-members: $50
Location: 1180 Peachtree Street, 16th floor, Atlanta, GA 30309
RSVP Required

Community Events

Atlanta Press Club hosts Sam A. Williams

The Atlanta Press Club will host Sam A. Williams, President of the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, at a Newsmaker Luncheon on Thursday, April 12, at The Commerce Club.

Sam A. Williams will address some of the most pressing issues facing the region:

•  Growth: Metro Atlanta added more people from 2000 to 2006 than any city in the nation, according to census figures released last week. This growth is evidence of prosperity. But prosperity also brings unintended consequences that must be managed – like transportation and our health care system.

•  Transportation: Over the last 10 years, metro Atlanta 's traffic congestion has grown from the 15 th - to the fourth-worst in the country, making it the region's top challenge to attracting and retaining companies and the high-quality jobs that come with them.

•  Grady Hospital : The Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce has formed a task force to address the issues that threaten Grady Health System's long-term viability.

This luncheon is open to the public. APC members may purchase individual tickets for $28 each or tables of 10 for $280, which includes signage. The nonmember prices are $35 for individual tickets and $350 for tables of 10 with signage. The $6 parking fee is not included in the ticket price. Tickets and tables may be purchased at www.atlantapressclub.org or by calling 404-577-7377. No tickets will be sold after noon on Wednesday, April 11. Payment must accompany reservations, and there is a 48-hour cancellation policy.

The FIRST Robotics Competition Championship to be Held at the Georgia Dome

Students of all ages and robots of all sizes will compete April 12-14

For Inspiration and Recognition of Science & Technology (FIRST) Robotics Competition Championship kicks off tomorrow, April 12, at the Georgia Dome. The FIRST LEGO League World Festival, where nine to 14 year olds have solved real-world engineering challenges by designing, building and programming robots using LEGO MINDSTORMS technology. The event includes 94 teams from 22 countries, representing the best of 9,000 teams from 88 championships held in 37 countries.

The FIRST Vex Challenge will also be held. The program involves mid-sized robots using the Vex Robotics Design System, involving 100 high-school-aged teams, representing the best of over 500 teams competing in 25 regional tournaments.  This program is designed to provide a more accessible and affordable opportunity to participate in FIRST .

Also on display will be the new junior FIRST LEGO league pilot program, created to introduce six to nine year olds to FIRST and the concepts of the FIRST LEGO League Challenge. The event involves 340 high school teams, and combines the excitement of sport with science and technology to create a unique varsity sport for the mind. This is the finale to a season of over 1,300 teams competing in 37 regional events in the U.S. , Canada , Israel and Brazil.