Powder Springs Business Association Bids Final Farewell

The Powder Springs Business Association held its last meeting Tuesday following a run of nearly four decades.

“For those of us that put a lot of time, blood, sweat and tears into the association over the years, it’s been a difficult decision,” PSBA President Tom Hatch told those gathered for the luncheon at the ’s . “But there’s no doubt that it’s the right decision. All involved will benefit from this.”

Starting in January, the roughly 35 members , which has a membership of slightly more than 200.

The decision is the result of Powder Springs’ low, stagnant membership and several board members retiring with no one to replace them.

“Although the Powder Springs Business Association has been around for a long time, it’s maintained the same basic membership levels for years now,” Hatch said. “And we just decided that at this time, it might be best for everybody—all members involved—to go ahead and merge.”

A string ensemble from provided holiday music Tuesday before the roughly two dozen in attendance. That number, smaller than many of the organization’s regular meetings, left many seats empty.

“That’s one of the reasons why we’re merging,” Hatch jokingly told Patch of the low attendance.

He noted that the merger will provide for more networking opportunities, bigger events, and more financial security. Those who have already paid 2012 PSBA fees will have their membership transferred to South Cobb, he added.

Mayor Pat Vaughn also said a few words, recalling when the PBSA had its meetings at Sirloin Junction 16 years ago.

The merger will provide “a wonderful opportunity for our businesses to network,” the mayor said. “You can accomplish a lot more when you’re a large group.”

The last PBSA meeting was the first for Randy Hatfield with , which has been in the city for five years. He said he was “very impressed … with the opportunity to network and the business opportunity in town.”

Hatfield said he plans to join the SCBA.

The PBSA was founded in the mid-‘70s. Wayne Postell, who owns ProSports in Powder Springs, was an organizing member and served as its first president. 

Other past presidents include Connie Bullock, Mike Keesee, Vera Carroll, Councilman Tom Bevirt, Romayne Chrisman, Don Cox, Wally Ziprik and Nancy Arnold.

Hatch said the PSBA website will remain up for a year to inform people of the merger. He recognized the last Board of Directors and thanked the city for allowing the use of the Coach Ford Center.

“I appreciate your participation," he told those gathered, “and I look forward to seeing you at the South Cobb Business Association.”

The SCBA will continue meeting at its current space—the Lion's Club at 620 Lions Club Drive in Mableton—until a more central location can be found for the combined membership. The next meeting starts at 11:45 a.m. on Jan. 4. Hatch said membership for the SCBA is $80 a year.