Beds, Budgets & Big Changes Across Georgia

Good morning, Henry County!

Today’s issue includes a major expansion at Piedmont Henry Hospital, a new state law changing Georgia’s medical cannabis program, and a few stories that caught our attention across the state, from new jobs to rising temperatures.

Let's get into it. 🦅👁️

STOCKBRIDGE - The City of Stockbridge just received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association — the highest honor in government accounting — for its 2024 fiscal year. City Manager Shawn Edmondson called it an honor, and CFO Frank Milazi said it reflects the city's "continued commitment to transparency, accountability, and sound financial stewardship." Read more at Henry Herald →

GEORGIA - Socomec, a French energy company, opened a new $10 million facility in Suwanee with 300 jobs already coming online. Short commute from Henry County, and hiring is underway. Read more at AJC →

GEORGIA — Gov. Brian Kemp signed Senate Bill 220 into law Tuesday, significantly expanding Georgia’s medical cannabis program. The new law removes the state’s previous 5% THC cap, allows approved patients over 21 to use vaporized cannabis products, and adds new qualifying conditions including lupus and intractable pain. Georgia officials say the changes are aimed at giving patients faster relief and broader treatment options while keeping recreational marijuana illegal in the state. Read more at FOX 5 Atlanta

GEORGIA - A new ranking of Georgia's hottest Mays since 1895 puts 1896 at the top with an average statewide temperature of 76.1°F. May 2019 came in second. May 2026 didn't crack the list yet — but Henry County residents already know which way the thermometer is pointing. Stay hydrated out there. Read more at WSB-TV →

STOCKBRIDGE — Piedmont Henry Hospital officially opened its new East Tower this week, marking one of the largest healthcare expansion projects in Henry County in recent years.

The six level tower adds 112 new beds to the hospital campus, increasing inpatient capacity from 259 to 371 beds, according to hospital leaders. The expansion also includes a second intensive care unit, larger stroke and orthopedic units, expanded surgical space, and room for future growth.

During the ceremony, Piedmont Henry CEO David Kent said the project reflects the hospital’s continued focus on patient care as the county rapidly grows.

“We always start with a patient,” Kent told attendees while opening the event.

Chief Operating Officer James Atkins, who helped oversee the project, called the new tower both a physical expansion and a reflection of the people inside it.

“It’s a beautiful building, but the building means nothing without the people,” Atkins said. “This hospital can bring people together in good times and bad times.”

Stockbridge Mayor Jaden Williams said the project represents more than healthcare infrastructure for the city.

“This is huge,” Williams said. “One, it is the heartbeat of my city, along with small businesses. But also this is an economic booster. It brings jobs, it brings opportunities.”

Williams also noted the hospital serves patients well beyond Henry County and said the expansion gives residents “an opportunity to feel safe, feel comfortable” during difficult moments.

Hospital leaders said the expansion will also help relieve pressure on Piedmont Henry’s busy emergency department and eliminate the remaining semi-private patient rooms as the facility prepares for continued population growth across Henry County and the surrounding region.

THURSDAY, MAY 14

Shades of Hunks – Ladies Night · 📍 Southern Roots Tavern, McDonough · 🕐 Doors 6:30PM · Early bird tickets are $14.95 — round up your crew before they sell out.

FRIDAY, MAY 15

Dueling Pianos in McDonough! · 📍 Southern Roots Tavern, McDonough · 🕐 8PM–11PM (Doors 6PM) · $9–$78 · 21+ after 7PM. The Andrews Brothers take all-request sing-alongs and turn them into a full comedy show. They know over 1,500 songs, so don't be shy about yelling out your favorites.

SATURDAY, MAY 16

McDonough Geranium Festival · 📍 McDonough Square · 🕐 9AM–5PM · FREE · Henry County's biggest street festival draws 25,000 people and 325+ vendors to the Square — if you go every year, you already know; if you've never been, this is the one to start with.

Joeann Compton Tennis & Pickleball Center Sign Unveiling · 📍 Richard Craig Park, 125 S. Zack Hinton Blvd., McDonough · 🕐 9AM · Henry County Parks & Rec names a brand-new facility — a quick, meaningful stop before the festival crowds arrive.

The CHAIN – Fleetwood Mac Tribute · 📍 Southern Roots Tavern, McDonough · 🕐 9PM–11PM (Doors 6PM) · $31–$205 · 21+ after 8PM. Billed as America's most authentic Fleetwood Mac tribute.

SUNDAY, MAY 17

U-Pick Strawberries at Southern Belle Farm · 📍 1658 Turner Church Rd, McDonough · 🕐 1PM–6PM · ~$16–19/gallon. Southern Belle Farm's u-pick strawberry fields are open this Sunday with the farm market and bakery.

ON THE HORIZON

Stephanie Mills, After 7 & Karyn White · 📍 VyStar Amphitheater at The Bridge, Stockbridge · 🗓 Saturday, May 23 · Gates 6PM | Show 8PM · Three icons of R&B on one stage — grab your tickets before they're gone.

KEM & Anthony David · 📍 VyStar Amphitheater at The Bridge, Stockbridge · 🗓 Saturday, May 30 · Gates 6PM | Show 8PM · Part of the Heart & Soul Concert Series — smooth, soulful, and already selling fast.

Bad Dad Joke of the Day 🤣

I used to be a banker…

But I lost interest. 🤣

That's the view from the perch, Henry County!

Tomorrow, we’ll continue following local growth, business openings, community stories, and the changes shaping our neck of the woods. Got a story tip? Please share. Contact us at [email protected]

Thanks for reading, and we’ll see you in your inbox tomorrow morning.

Stay sharp, stay local. The Eagle Eye Digest 🦅👁️