On January 19, John Deere Commercial & Consumer Equipment Division dedicated its newest addition to its Columbia County manufacturing facility. The 5000 Series Focus Factory, which will house all manufacturing operations for the 5000 Advantage, Ten and Twenty series utility tractor lines, is a 206,000 square foot expansion to the company's existing plant in the Horizon South Industrial Park.

The new facility was constructed on approximately 105 acres adjacent to the company's 11-year old facility. Because the expansion promised new jobs for the area, the Development Authority of Columbia County provided site grading, water and sewer extensions and other infrastructure improvements.

"In 1999 John Deere employed 235 local residents and now its employee base is nearly 400. We recognized that John Deere is good for the local economy and were glad to assist the company with the improvements to its land. It's a win-win situation for all involved," said Bryan Quinsey, executive director, Columbia County Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber Hosts Legislative Luncheon

Augusta business and civic leaders came together February 21 to host a luncheon for state legislators in Atlanta. The annual event, sponsored by The Westinghouse Savannah River Company and MCG Healthcare Inc., along with the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Augusta Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau, is an opportunity to inform state elected officials and administrators of the specific needs and concerns of the metro Augusta community. General Assembly leaders, the Department Commissioner and other state personnel joined Augustans at the Capitol City Club in Atlanta to tout Augusta's many achievements and learn what can still be done to move the metro area forward.

Robert Osborne, Chairman of the Chamber's Governmental Relations Committee, and Abram Serotta, Chairman of the Augusta Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau, presented the community's needs and concerns. Environmental issues, economic development, transportation and tourism were some of the issues covered in the day's agenda.

"It is important that we let the people in Atlanta who impact our area so greatly, hear from our community. Without the input of business leaders from areas like Augusta our needs will be forgotten," said Vice President of Community Development Scott MacGregor. "Participants were very interested in hearing the Augusta message. We hope that by keeping our elected leaders informed, metro Augusta will on their mind when they make decisions about issues that will affect our area."

Join A Winning Team

The Chamber is pleased to announce that J. Pierce Blanchard, Jr., Group Vice President of Georgia Bank & Trust Co. will chair the 2001 campaign.

Campaign 2001, the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce's annual fundraising drive, is set to kick off this Spring. Now is the time to volunteer yourself or your business to participate.

Last year the Campaign raised over $250,000 and volunteers took home thousands of dollars in cash and rewards. Top producers won a cruise to the Bahamas. With a little effort, you too can enjoy some extra cash in your pocket and a luxurious tropical vacation.

Funds raised during the campaign assist the Chamber by financing quality programming for Chamber membership, a voice to our legislature and continued recruitment for economic development.

In addition, Campaign 2001 is a great opportunity for your business to gain recognition along with past participants Lockwood Greene, Atlanta Gas Light, First Bank.

Please call Amy Bryan to volunteer or if your company would like to enter a team in this year's campaign.