House Resolution 350 By: Representatives Jones of the 143rd, Griffin of the 149th, Dickey of the 134th, Paris of the 142nd, Herring of the 145th, and others A RESOLUTION Honoring the life and memory of Joshua "Josh" Michael Rogers; and for other purposes. WHEREAS, the State of Georgia mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished citizens with the passing of Joshua "Josh" Michael Rogers on November 24, 2024; and WHEREAS, Joshua "Josh" Michael Rogers was born on October 29, 1982, a beloved son of Mark and Libby Rogers; and WHEREAS, he served his community as a visionary leader and advocate who dedicated innumerable hours of his time and energy toward revitalizing downtown Macon and transforming it into a nationally recognized and award-winning urban center; and WHEREAS, before turning 30, Josh was named executive director of the Historic Macon Foundation, where he spearheaded the revitalization of the Beall's Hill neighborhood and used tools such as historic tax credits and creative partnerships to renovate 40 residences; and WHEREAS, he further inspired civic pride for Maconites through initiatives such as the Magnolia Soapbox Derby and the "i love macon" campaign; and WHEREAS, at the age of 32, he became the president and CEO of NewTown Macon, where his leadership led to the establishment of Middle Georgia's first and only Community Development Financial Institution and downtown Macon's first Business Improvement District; and WHEREAS, during his exemplary tenure, Macon's downtown transformed into a thriving hub of activity filled with locally owned businesses as well as a vibrant cultural and economic landscape, culminating in NewTown Macon receiving the prestigious Great American Main Street Award in 2024; and WHEREAS, despite his many professional accomplishments, Josh's greatest title was "Dad"—he was a devoted father to his children, Jack and Ellie, as well as a loving husband to his wife, Meaghan, who enjoyed spending cherished time with his family; and WHEREAS, a compassionate and generous man, Joshua "Josh" Michael Rogers will long be remembered for his love of family, friendship, and community and will be missed by all who had the great fortune of knowing him. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body join in honoring the life and memory of Joshua "Josh" Michael Rogers and express their deepest and most sincere regret at his passing. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the family of Joshua "Josh" Michael Rogers.