May 2012 - HomeTown Neighbors Magazine

Cotton States Insurance
Cotton States Insurance has provided for the insurance needs of residents in Franklin
County and surrounding communities for more than 50 years. After Paul Crawford
and Bobby Sullivan retired from their Cotton State offices, Ryan Swails decided
to follow in their tradition by opening an office in Royston to continue providing
excellent customer service to the area. We sat down with Ryan to talk about his new
agency, and what Cotton States has to offer the community.
HTN Magazine: What made you decide
to start your new business
Ryan: Paul Crawford and Bobby Sullivan
operated Cotton States agencies in Royston
and Carnesville, respectively. Their integrity
and genuine love for people has produced lasting
relationships with so many in the community.
That legacy and Cotton States’ commitment
to excellence was what drew me to work
with Cotton States.
HTN Magazine: What sets your business
apart from other businesses in the area
Ryan: Cotton States has always offered a
variety of quality insurance products. As an affiliate
of COUNTRY Financial, Cotton States
offers a wide range of insurance and financial
services. As a financial representative, I help
people set and meet their own financial security
goals. Everyone’s definition of financial
security is different. For some, it may mean
planning for retirement. Others may be more
focused on protecting their home and family
now. By providing both insurance and finan-
cial solutions, I can help people develop a tangible
plan that works for them.
HTN Magazine: What type of merchandise
or services are you offering the area
Ryan: In addition to providing auto, home,
and life insurance, we offer disability income
insurance, long-term care insurance, farm insurance
and commercial insurance. There are
also many financial services products available.
From IRAs to annuities, we have great options.
HTN Magazine: How much planning,
renovation, and work was involved in opening
your new business
Ryan: Cotton States had an established
office located on HWY 29 across from the
Roystonian. Paul and Teresa Crawford have
poured so much into the Royston Cotton
States office and managed its operations for
many years. Teresa, our agency assistant, is the
rock of our office.
HTN Magazine: Tell us about your family,
hobbies and interests outside of the business
Ryan: My wife Ginny and I recently added
a new member to the family. Afton Swails was
born December 1, 2011. She is the light of our
lives. We’re active members of Lifesprings
Community Church in Franklin Springs. I’m a
volunteer firefighter with the Franklin Springs
Fire Department and serve as Chairman for the
Royston Downtown Development Authority.
I recently completed two triathlons and would
one day like to participate in an Ironman.
HTN Magazine: Is there anything else
you think would be interesting to our readers
about your new venture
Ryan: The personal connection that comes
from meeting people and discovering their
interests and needs is what matters the most
to me. I love it when people stop by to chat
or simply review their policy. When you talk
with me, you’ll get personal attention along
with your insurance policy. It’s important to
feel connected to your insurance agency. This
bout Winterization and Storage Specials!
is what drives me and it is what will drive our
Cotton States agency now and in the future.
24
May 2012
HomeTown Neighbors Magazine
Franklin, Hart, Stephens, Madison and Elbert Counties