Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce March 2017

ConnectionsCONNECTIONS

The Roaring 20sSTEPPING OUTON THE TOWNPAGE 5

2017 Legislative

AGENDAPAGE 13

EventsCalendar

S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30 31

www.dothan.com(334) 792-5138

INSIDEWhat’s

March 2017

2 Events Calendar

3 Ribbon Cuttings

5 Cover Story

7-12 Business Briefs

13 Governmental Affairs

14 Workforce Development

Also In This Issue 8 National Leadership Simulcast

10 Ingram Selected To Serve On RLI Board

12 Registration Now Open For Long-Term Care Seminar

March

Your cover photo features Southeast Pain Management’s Director Connie Parrish and Sonya Jordan, marketing specialist, out on the town in Roaring 20s style during the Dothan Area

Chamber of Commerce’s annual trade show Spotlight on Business.

LEADS Group 2 Meeting – 8 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)Ribbon Cutting: Nexgenbenefits, GuruLocation: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)After Hours Networking Event: The Terrace at Grove Park- 4-6 p.m.Location: 101 Tulip Lane Ambassador and Diplomat Committee Meeting – 9 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)Youth Leadership Dothan-Houston County Education Day – 7:45 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)LEADS Group 1 Meeting – 8 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)Ribbon Cutting: SAMC Westway Medical Office - 10:30 a.m.Location: 4550 West Main StreetRibbon Cutting: Hein Law Firm – 10:30 a.m.Location: 443 West Main StreetRibbon Cutting: Townplace Suites – 5:30-7 p.m.Location: 201 Retail DriveLEADS Group 2 Meeting – 8 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)Board of Directors’ Meeting – 8:15 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)Leadership Dothan Public Safety Day – 7:45 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)General Membership Luncheon – noon (Doors and buffet open at 11:30 a.m.)Location: 795 Ross Clark Circle (Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center Inc.’s Sterling Event Services Rotary Hall) *Reservations required. See page 6 for more information. Ribbon Cutting: Southeast Alabama Highland GamesLocation: 5540 W. Main St., Suite 9 (McLeod’s Publick House) Ribbon Cutting: The Closet Boutique – 10:30 a.m.Location: 2803 Ross Clark Circle, Suite 3 LEADS Group 1 Meeting – 8 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)Ribbon Cutting: Mary & John A Children’s Boutique – 10:30 a.m.Location: 2576 Montgomery Highway, Suite 1Ribbon Cutting: Gypsy’s Gift Shop – 10:30 a.m.Location: 2545 Montgomery Highway Ribbon Cutting: NAI Talcor – 10:30 p.m.Location: 1276-B Westgate ParkwayLEADS Group 2 Meeting – 8 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)Ribbon Cutting: Windmill Station – 10:30 a.m.Location: 1369 Headland Ave.Ribbon Cutting: Window World – 10:30 p.m.Location: 506 Westgate Parkway

1

7

8

9

17

21

22

23

28

29

30

Your Cover Photo

Dothan Area Chamber of CommerceMarch 2017

ConnectionsCONNECTIONS

The Roaring 20s

STEPPING OUTON THE TOWNPAGE 5

2017 Legislative

AGENDAPAGE 12

2

15

16

2 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS MARCH 2017

Cashwell’s Photo Bar & Portrait Printing

161 E. Main St.Dothan AL 36301

Wanda Johnson(334) 792-1022

www.cashwellphotography.comPHOTOGRAPHY &

PRINTING

Shelor and Hundley Urology, PC

256 Honeysuckle Road, Suite 12

Dothan, AL 36305Jennifer Phillips(334) 712-2900

PHYSICIANS & SURGEONS – MD –

UROLOGY

Flowers MedicalGroup Internal

Medicine Associates210 Westside DriveDothan, AL 36303

Danny McLean(334) 793-5074

www.flowersmedicalgroup.com HEALTH CARE

Sleep Inn and Suites4654 Montgomery Highway

Dothan, AL 36303Surekha Patel

(334) 671-2086www.choicehotels.com/alabama/dothan/al1212

HOTELS/MOTELS

Honeysuckle Middle School Academic

Dream Room1665 Honeysuckle Road

Dothan, AL 36305Jeff Torrence

(334) 794-1420www.dothan.k12.al.usSCHOOLS – PUBLIC

(K-12)

The Main Event, LLC DBA The Thirsty Pig

257 S. St. Andrews St.Dothan, AL 36301

Kerry Farrell(334) 699-1475

www.thirstypig.comBARS, PUBS, TAVERNS &

SALOONS

Tippy Toes Nail Salon105 Apple Ave.,

Suite 2 (Physical)400 Mechau Lane

Dothan, AL 36301Tinh Chapman(334) 446-6429NAIL SALON

Liberty Learning Foundation

1015 Airport RoadHuntsville, AL 35802

Tami Culverwww.libertylearning.org

(256) 382-4003EDUCATIONAL SERVICES

RibbonCuttings

Schedule A Ribbon Cutting!Are you a new Chamber member? Has your business expanded or

relocated? Are you breaking ground for a new facility? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may want to schedule a Chamber Ribbon Cutting or Goundbreaking event.

These events take place weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Chamber staff will work with you to choose the date and time that best fits your schedule. Your event will be included in the Calendar of Events section of the Chamber Connections and your picture will also be featured in the newsletter after the event.

For more information or to book an event, contact LaRhonda Robinson, director of membership, at (334) 792-5138 or lrobinson@dothan.com.

www.dothan.com 3

CoverStory

The Roaring 20s

Best In ShowHEALTHSOUTH Rehabilitation Hospital

Stepping Out On The Town

Second Place WinnerFive Star Credit Union

Third Place WinnerOutback GutterVac of the Wiregrass

In connecting businesses to the community for 96 years, the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual trade show - Spotlight on Business - at the Dothan Civic Center, Feb. 7. Despite inclement weather, the area’s largest trade show attracted over 850 visitors.

The 4-hour event provides the community the opportunity to see what area businesses are up to and what they have to offer. You could find new and long-standing members sharing their latest business concepts and products. Businesses ranging from health care to home recreation, heating to banking, entertainment, and consultants were all on hand networking with each other and prospective customers.

As you walked into the Civic Center, you felt like you were stepping out on the town back into “The Roaring 20s.” Into a time where Jazz music blossomed, the flapper redefined the modern look and Art Deco peaked. Each year a theme is chosen by the DACC to help create enthusiasm, excitement and a little “decorating” competition among booth participants. And to no disappointment, the creativity of Chamber member’s was astonishing … the event was filled with gals dressed in slinky knee-length dresses donning chin-length bob haircuts, and the men showed their best in Gatsby and gangster clothes.

Congratulations to this year’s Best In Show winner HEALTHSOUTH Rehabilitation Hospital. Second and third place winners were Five Star Credit Union and Outback GutterVac of the Wiregrass respectively.

A BIG shout out and thank you is extended to the Spotlight on Business 2017 sponsors: Cook’s Pest Control, Durden Outdoor Displays Inc., The Mosquito Squad of the Wiregrass and WOW! Business. Their sponsorships and support contribute to making the trade show a great event for all involved.

Plans are already underway for next year’s activity. So mark your calendar for Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2018, at the Dothan Civic Center. Booths will go on sale in October 2018. Be sure to stay tuned to find out what next year’s Spotlight theme will be. Hope to see you there!

See page 6 for a list of the 2017 Spotlight on Business participants and event pictures.

Thank You To Our Event Sponsors:

4 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS MARCH 2017

ADS SecurityAdvantage Human Resourcing Inc.All Metal Roofing and Siding Inc. Amy’s Hair Refinery and SalonArmy Aviation Center Federal Credit UnionAtlanta Bread Co. Avadian Credit UnionBarge, Waggoner, Sumner and Cannon Inc. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServicesShowcase Properties

Camellia HospiceCenter for Vein RestorationCoca-Cola Bottling Co. United Inc. Coleman Worldwide MovingCook’s Pest Control SPONSOR

Covenant Care DaySpring Hospice, LLCDermatology Specialists of Alabama Dothan City SchoolsThe Dothan Eagle Dothan Networking AllianceDurden Outdoor Displays Inc. SPONSOR

Eagle Eye Outfitters Inc.Express Employment ProfessionalsFairfield Inn DothanFASTSIGNS of DothanFive Star Credit UnionFlowers HospitalFort Rucker Morale, Welfare and Recreation 460DesignsFULLEFUELED, LLCGarner Technologies, LLC George T. Bagby State Park and Lodge Global TechforceGreystone United Methodist ChurchHarley-Davidson of Dothan Harris Security SystemsHEALTHSOUTH Rehabilitation Hospital Hey Gorgeous! Lash and Spray Tan StudioHighland Hills ApartmentsHighland Oaks Golf CourseHolland MotorsportsThe Home Depot #0808Home Instead Senior CareHometown Lenders, LLCHouston County Republican WomenIngram Land and Development, LLC The Joy FM 94.3The Landing and Five Star Catering LaQuinta Inns and Suites Larry Blumberg and Associates(LBA Hospitality)

The Lilly Co. Manpower

Mattress USAMosquito Squad of the Wiregrass SPONSORNewk’s EateryNexgenbenefits, Guru Outback Guttervac of the Wiregrass Papa John’s PizzaPioneer Telephone Directories Corp. PR CompaniesPrimericaReBathScenic Cable Network and ProductionSlingluff United InsuranceSoutheast Pain Management CenterSouthern LightSpectraCare Health Systems Inc.Techway Automotive, LLCTitan Magic ShowsTroy Cablevision Inc.Troy UniversityTroy University Continuing EducationTroy University Small BusinessDevelopment Center

Verizon Wireless AdvantageVIP Dothan MagazineVisit DothanWallace Community CollegeWells Fargo Bank, NAWestside Terrace and Rehab FirstWIRED Ministries Inc. Wiregrass Hope GroupWiregrass Rehabilitation Center Inc.Wiregrass Warehouse Inc.WOW! Business SPONSOR

Zonta Club of Dothan

TO OUR 2017 SPOTLIGHT PARTICIPANTSThank You

www.dothan.com 5

Clip and add these to your Membership Directory.NewMembers

RenewingMembers

Alabama National Guard RecruitingRobert Cornett1720 Congressman WL Dickinson DriveMontgomery, AL 36109Ph: (256) 297-6052https://state.nationalguard.com/alabama NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONSCELEBRATIONS!Lisa Green Baker1445 Westgate ParkwayDothan, AL 36303Ph: ((334)) 701-0162www.facebook.com/celebrationbylisa CATERERSDothan Police FoundationTonja Shelley210 N. St. Andrews St.Dothan, AL 36303Ph: ((334)) 615-3617Fax: ((334)) 615-3609www.dothanpolicefoundation.org NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONSGypsy’s Gift ShopJana Linder2545 Montgomery HighwayDothan, AL 36303Ph: ((334)) 699-2545www.facebook.com/GypsysGiftShop GIFT SHOP

i Believe it LeVelCharlotte Morris107 Fencepost LaneDothan, AL 36303Ph: ((334)) 701-1770https://ibelieveit.le-vel.com NUTRITIONAL SUPPLIESNAI Whatley TalcorDebra Wahl1276-B Westgate ParkwayDothan, AL 36303Ph: (334) 699-8000Fax: (334) 699-1777www.naitalcor.comREAL ESTATE - COMMERCIALPenske Truck LeasingBradley Taylor1605 Kinsey Road (Dothan)1960 Broad St.Mobile, AL 36615Ph: ((334)) 673-0179Fax: (251) 433-7326www.penske.comTRUCK RENTING & LEASINGPreferred Risk ServicesBrook Meadows113 Adris PlaceDothan, AL 36305Ph: (334) 836-1377Fax: (334) 673-7919www.preferredriskservices.comINSURANCE - CONSULTINGWiregrass Fitness, LLCdba Pure Barre DothanMary Neal Clark2620 Montgomery Highway, Suite 7Dothan, AL 36301www.purebarre.com/al-dothan HEALTH & FITNESS CLUBS

Shelor and Hundley Urology, PCJennifer Phillips256 Honeysuckle Road, Suite 12Dothan, AL 36305Ph: (334) 712-2900Fax: (334) 792-1006PHYSICIANS & SURGEONS - MD - UROLOGYStatera HealthMarc Miller1118 Ross Clark Circle,Suite 310Dothan, AL 36301Ph: (334) 712-3143www.staterahealth.orgHEALTH CAREWiregrass Courier, LLCKevin Deem983 Tate Drive, Suite 2P.O. Box 8664Dothan, AL 36304Ph: (334) 699-2280Fax: (334) 699-2275www.wiregrasscourier.comCOURIER/MESSENGER SERVICESWiregrass Equipment Co.Tom Ogletree548 Old Highway 431Headland, AL 36345Ph: (334) 699-8028www.wiregrassequipment.com

70 Or More YearsHudson Office Supply Inc.Mayer Electric SupplyMcDaniel & Associates, PC50 YearsDavis Oil Co.Todd & SonsTom West Co.W.P. Shealy Advertising Inc.40-49 YearsAAA Cooper TransportationAlfred Saliba Corp. Barge, Waggoner, Sumner and Cannon Inc.Beasley PharmacyBob Woodall Air Care Systems Inc.Century 21 James Grant RealtyDothan Animal HospitalDothan Brace ShopDothan PowersportsDunbarton Corp.Durden Outdoor Displays Inc.Flowers HospitalHardwick, Hause, Segrest & WaldingHathcock Roofing & Remodeling Co.Higgins Electric Inc.Hollis & Spann ContractorsHome Oil Co. Inc/Hobo Pantry Food StoresHouston County Farmers FederationJackson Gas & ElectricLee, Livingston, Lee & Nichols, PCMcClintock, Nelson & Associates, CPA’s, PCMcDonald’s of DothanMidSouth BankMike Schmitz Automotive Group

Northcutt Drug Co.PeoplesSouth BankRamsey, Baxley & McDougleRegions BankRegister Realty Co. Inc.Smith’s Inc. of DothanSolomon Motor Co. Inc.Southeast Alabama Gas DistrictSoutheastern Oral-MaxillofacialSouthern Business SystemsSouthern Clinic, PCSwedish Match CigarsTerminix ServiceTerry L. Horn, CPATwitchell Technical Products, LLCWhatley Supply Co.30-39 Years20/20 Eye CareArmy Aviation Center Federal Credit UnionDothan Career CenterDothan Landmarks FoundationDothan Pediatric ClinicENT CareFlowers Insurance Agency, LLCShute Pecan Co. Inc.Southern Outdoor SportsTreeHouse Foods25-29 YearsFarley Nuclear Energy Education CenterReal Estate Services of Dothan Inc.Scott-Cook PharmacyU.S. Business Products Inc.Wiregrass United Way20-24 YearsAlabama Department of Rehabilitation ServicesNypro

Papa John’s PizzaS. Brannon Clothing Inc.15-19 YearsAlabama Technology NetworkDothan Pilcher Ambulance ServiceHall Housing Investments Inc.Northstar Engineering ServicesONE Source ManagementRidgecrest Baptist ChurchSouthern Heritage Funeral Home & Crematory10-14 YearsDon McCleod, CPA, PCFirst South Farm CreditMurray’s Irrigation5-9 YearsAngel Hands Home CareDrew Owen State Farm InsuranceFirst Light Home CareJC Penney Co.Northview Christian ChurchPeter A. McInish, LLCRed Elephant Pizza & GrillRituals Day SpaStephanie W. Brookins, CPAVerizon Wireless Advantage (Corporate Office)Wells Fargo Bank, NAWiregrass BEST Inc.1-4 YearsAlabama Baptist Children’s Homes & Family MinistriesAlabama Motor Express LogisticsBrian Davidson State Farm InsuranceChicken Salad ChickDittus Machining

Spirit of Service 2017April 29, 2017

The 28th Annual Spirit of Service Day will be held Saturday, April 29. The kick off for Spirit of Service Day will be on Houston County Gives Day Friday, April 28.

For more information, contact Linda Kelley, director of community development, at (334) 792-5138 or lkelley@dothan.com.

Save The Dates!

General Membership LuncheonWiregrass Rehabilitation Center Inc.’s

Sterling Event Services Rotary HallMarch 16 • noon

Join the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce for its next General Membership Luncheon Thursday, March 16, at Wiregrass Rehabilitation Services Inc.’s Sterling Event Services Rotary Hall Thursday, March 16, beginning at noon (doors and buffet open at 11:30 a.m.). Our guest speakers will be William Canary, Business Council of Alabama president and CEO, and Zeke Smith, Alabama Workforce Council chairman and Alabama Power executive vice president.

Tickets are $15 per person or $150 for a reserved table (seats eight). The deadline to reserve your seat is noon Tuesday, March 14. Sponsorships are still available. To make reservations, contact Hayden Camp, director of membership, at (334) 792-5138 or hcamp@dothan.com.

Thank You To Our Luncheon Sponsor:

Community-Wide Prayer BreakfastDothan Civic CenterApril 4 • 7:30 a.m.

Former University of Alabama and New York Yankee baseball player Andy Phillips will be the guest speaker at the 20th Annual Community-Wide Prayer Breakfast at the Dothan Civic Center Tuesday, April 4, at 7:30 a.m.

Individual tickets are now on sale for $15 at the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce. Reserved tables of eight are $125. To purchase tickets by

phone with a credit card, or for more information, call Janice Shepard at (334) 792-5138 or email janice@dothan.com.

Zeke Smith

William Canary

Andy Phillips

6 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS MARCH 2017

BusinessBriefs

Congratulations to the Ambassador and Diplomat Team of the Month “Chamber Crushers” for claiming this month’s title. Pictured (seated l-r) are Elaine Covington, Health-Link; Pat Evans, Evans Automotive Service; (standing) Rich Merrell, PRemployer Inc.; Chris Bailey, Townplace Suites; and Shawn Wittenborn, Mingledorff ’s Distributers. Team member not picture is Dana Bonney, “Dothan Neighbors” Magazines.

Thank you to all our Ambassadors and Diplomats who serve as the eyes and ears for the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce. It is their dedication and support that assist your local Chamber in meeting its goals.

Be sure to check out next month’s Chamber Connections to see who will claim the title.

Star Of The Month

Team Of The Month

Chamber Crushers

Ambassadors&Diplomats

Dana Bonney“Dothan Neighbors” Magazines

Celebrate RecoveryEvery Friday • 7 p.m.Harvest Church. This is a biblical 12-step program for anyone struggling with life’s hurts, hang-ups or habits. The program is free and all are welcome. For those with children, age specific children’s program available. For more information, call Harvest at (334) 702-6555 or email celebraterecovery@harvestdothan.com. “You can’t heal a wound by saying it’s not there!”Carmike Cinemas’ Weekend “Kidtoon”Every Weekend • Times VaryDothan Pavilion. Carmike Cinemas will play a special “Kidtoon” every weekend for only $5. For more information, contact the local theatre at (334) 836-0813 or visit www.carmike.com for show times. Some locations will be able to have a special showing on Tuesday mornings for schools and daycares to take advantage of Carmike’s Stimulus Tuesdays.1st Saturday Family DayMarch 4 • 10:30 a.m.Wiregrass Museum of Art & Conference Center. This is a program that provides entertainment for the whole family. Children and their families can enjoy a different fun-filled activity each month. The program is free and open to children of all ages who are accompanied by an adult. For more information, contact the Museum at (334) 794-3871 or visit www.wiregrassmuseum.org. SunSouth John Deere Open HouseMarch 4 • 11 a.m. SunSouth John Deere. SunSouth John Deere invites everyone to their Open House. There will be great prizes, free lunch free lunch with a homemade dessert, inflatables and prizes for kids, Fire and Police department exhibits, antique cars, antique tractors and many other exciting things. For more information, contact SunSouth at (800) 794-0691.

Upcoming Member Events

Have an upcoming event planned?Send your event information to mmckean@dothan.com

YOURCHAMBER

Join Our Team as a Summer Intern!The Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce has created a

new position for a summer intern. This position will provide an excellent opportunity to work in a highly professional and successful organization.

The summer intern will provide research, outreach, social media, administrative support and assist in a wide range of projects and activities to carry out the Chamber’s Strategic Plan.

This is a part-time position of 32 hours a week, Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Pay is $8 an hour with no benefits. Position start date is flexible, but ideally would start late May and end late July/early August.

Applicants need to be a highly motivated and professional student willing to learn about business operations and the importance of the Dothan Area Chamber in the local community. Ideal applicant is a college student, who has completed one year, and interested in business and community development. No high school or rising college students are eligible.

Interested applicants should send a cover letter and resume to Dean Mitchell, executive director, at dmitchell@dothan.com. Selected applicants should be prepared for personal interview with the executive director and other chamber staff. Application deadline is April 1.

www.dothan.com 7

BusinessBriefs

The Southeast Alabama Dance Company will proudly present Moana Friday-Sunday, March 10-12, at the Dothan Civic Center. Performance times vary.

An all-new tale of an adventurous teenager in the Pacific Island who sails out on a daring mission to save her people, Moana meets the once mighty demigod Mau. Together they sail across the open ocean on an action-packed voyage.

For performance times, visit www.southeastalabamadancecompany.org . Tickets can be purchased through the Dothan Civic Center Box Office by calling (334) 615-3175 or visiting www.dothanciviccenter.org.

SEADAC Presents Moana

1108 Ross Clark CircleDothan, Alabama 36301334-793-8111 samc.org

SAMC is the region’s first hospitalto earn the prestigious Gold PlusStroke Award from the AmericanHeart Association and AmericanStroke Association.

From the area’s first responders to SAMC’s highly trained stroketeam of physicians, nurses andclinical team members, patients receive the latest stroke care available.

This means a coordinated andquicker response time, which inturn means less damage caused by the stroke.

Top 10% in nation for patient safety

WITH STROKE,TIME LOST IS BRAIN LOST.

SAMC IS THE REGION’S GOLDSTANDARD FOR STROKE CARE.

PROVIDING PATIENTS THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF ADVANCED

STROKE CARE.

WeddingWire, the leading global online marketplace for the wedding and event industry, recently announced Graceful Beginnings, LLC as a winner of the esteemed 2017 WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards for Wedding Planning in Dothan. The Couples’ Choice Awards recognize the top 5 percent of wedding professionals on WeddingWire who demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness and professionalism. The prestigious awards are given to the top local wedding professionals across more than 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, based on their professional achievements from the previous year. The WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards winners are determined solely based on reviews from real newlyweds and their experiences working with Gaye Choat and Graceful Beginnings. Award-winning vendors are distinguished for the quality, quantity, consistency and timeliness of the reviews they have received from their past clients. “The Couples’ Choice Awards’ ninth year features one of the most impressive groups of dedicated and acclaimed wedding professionals yet,” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire CEO. “It is our honor to work with high-caliber

merchants, such as Graceful Beginnings, who not only make a couple’s big day possible, but also contribute to the more than 2.5 million U.S. reviews represented on WeddingWire.” As a Couples’ Choice Awards winner, Graceful

Beginnings is highlighted on WeddingWire, which is comprised of more than 200,000 wedding professionals in the U.S. “We would like to thank our past clients for taking the time to review our business on WeddingWire,” said Choat. “We truly value all of our clients and appreciate the positive feedback that helped us earn a 2017 WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Award.”

For more information about Graceful Beginnings, contact Choat at (334) 644-7892 or visit her WeddingWire Storefront at www.graceful-beginnings.com.

Graceful Beginnings Receives Excellence HonorDothan WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Award

Express Employment To Host National Leadership

SimulcastExpress Employment Professionals of

Dothan will host the 2017 Refresh Leadership Live Simulcast, a nationwide leadership event featuring best-selling author Patrick Lencioni, two-time Super Bowl champion coach Jimmy Johnson and world champion adventure racer Robyn Benincasa.

Back for its eighth year, the event will take place Wednesday, April 12, at the Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center Inc.’s Sterling Event Services Rotary Hall. Registration will begin at 8 a.m. followed by the simulcast at 8:45 a.m. Refreshments will be available.

The Refresh Leadership Live Simulcast focuses on how leaders can reach the next level, inspire their people and become more effective in their role. Lencioni kicks off the event and will speak on “The Ideal Team Player” followed by legendary coach Johnson offering insight into building a winning team and bringing the best out of every member through encouragement and respect. The event concludes with Benincasa, who will take the audience on a fast-paced adventure to show how groups of ordinary people can accomplish truly extraordinary feats together.

Business leaders, human resources professionals and Chamber members can register at www.refreshleadership.com/live. There is no cost to attend, but Express is asking for a $10 donation to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association. In addition, this event offers professional development credits for various organizations including SHRM, HRCI and HRPA.

For more information, contact Express Employment Professionals at (334) 671-1315 or stop by their office located at 3702 Ross Clark Circle.

8 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS MARCH 2017

BusinessBriefs

Chamber Committee Presents JROTC CadetLeadership Awards

During its regular quarterly meeting, the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s Military Affairs Committee honored five local area high school JROTC cadets for their outstanding leadership and performance during the current 2016-2017 school year.

The committee annually dedicates a meeting to honoring the cadets and their commanders in order to show its appreciation and support of the local JROTC programs.

Retired Col. Tom Boyle, Military Affairs Committee chairman, presented the Cadet of the Year Leadership awards to:

1. Cadet Maj. Darla HuntCarroll High School Army JROTCProgram Commander: Chief Len Stanford

2. Cadet Lt. Col. Elexuas Q. Hicks Dothan High School Army JROTCProgram Commander: Sgt. Maj. Tracy Adams

3. Cadet Lance Cpl. Jeffrey B. YanceyNorthview High School Marine JROTCProgram Commander: Sgt. Maj. Ron Roland

Also recognized, but unable to attend the awards ceremony, were Cadet Capt. Brandon Purdue and (Ret) Col. Teresa Townsend, Daleville High School Army JROTC; and Cadet Cmdr. Jonathan Shealey and Lt. Cmdr. Jeffrey Treude, Rehobeth High School Navy JROTC.

“The Military Affairs Committee is proud to have the opportunity to honor these outstanding students and their commanders,” stated Boyle. Our committee looks forward to recognizing these cadets each year and this is just one avenue this committee takes to meet our goal of enhancing the positive interaction between the Dothan area community, Fort Rucker and the

area’s military command and personnel.”During the presentations, the cadets and

their commanders had the opportunity to talk about their involvement in the JROTC program and future plans. All the cadets and commanders also expressed their gratitude to the DACC and the Military Affairs Committee for this special recognition. Currently, the Dothan Area Chamber is the only area chamber that holds such an activity in their honor.

The Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s Military Affairs Committee presents Cadet of the Year Leadership awards to five local area high school JROTC cadets. Pictured (l-r) are Dr. Don Jeffrey, Troy University Dothan vice chancellor and vice chancellor of military affairs; Cynthia Green, Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center Inc. and the DACC’s Governmental Affairs Council chair; Chief Len Stanford and Cadet Maj. Darla Hunt, Carroll High School Army JROTC; Sgt. Maj. Tracy Adams and Cadet Lt. Col. Elexuas Hicks, Dothan High School Army JROTC; Sgt. Maj. Ron Roland, Cadet Lance Cpl. Jeffrey Yancy and Master Gunnery Sgt. Jeff McKenney, Northview High School Marine JROTC; retired Col. Tom Boyle, DACC Military Affairs Committee chairman; and Dothan Mayor Mike Schmitz. Not pictured are Cadet Capt. Brandon Purdue and retired Col. Teresa Townsend, Daleville High School Army JROTC; and Cadet Cmdr. Jonathan Shealey and Lt. Cmdr. Jeffrey Treude, Rehobeth High School Navy JROTC.

81st Annual Tri-States Junior Beef Expo

The 81st annual Tri-States Junior Beef Expo, sponsored by the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce, will be held Saturday, March 4, at the Houston County Farm Center.

Active 4-H, FHA and FFA members from southeast Alabama, southwest Georgia and northwest Florida will compete for cash awards, ribbons, silver buckles and qualification for the state steer show that is held in Montgomery in March.

Ricky Hudson, Regional Extension agent – Animal Science/Forages Alabama Cooperative Extension System, will serve as Expo Superintendent. Harrison Lang from Mandeville, Louisiana will be the show judge.

Co-sponsors for the event include the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, State Department of Education and the State Department of Ag and Industries.

The event involves volunteers from all over the tri-state area and has a positive economic impact on Dothan and Houston County. Admission is Free.

For more information concerning the show, contact Janice Shepard, vice president of administration, at (334) 792-5138 or janice@dothan.com.

Schedule of EventsSaturday, March 4

8 a.m. - Receiving and Entering

11 a. m. - Showmanship followed byWeight Class Division and Heifer Show

As a way to give back to the community, Bradford Health Services is providing free supervisor and employee training to all companies and organizations within the community. The training offered can be tailored to meet the needs of most any organization.

Some of the training options include, but are not limited to:• Drug Free Workplace• Stress Management• Anger Management • Violence in the Workplace• Active Shooter Drills• Free CEU’s for nursing, counseling and

medical staff“Teaching people how to deal with some of

life’s most difficult situations will ultimately lower the risk of becoming addicted to drugs

and alcohol,” stated Kim Chosie, Bradford Health’s regional director.

Bradford Health Services is also pleased to say that after spending several years working in the state mental health system, it is delighted to welcome back one of its own, Debbie King as it clinic director. A licensed professional counselor, King has 24 years of experience in the mental health/substance abuse field and will oversee the treatment programming.

A leading provider of substance abuse treatment services in the southeastern United States, Bradford Health has been providing quality care for those suffering with addiction and their families in the Dothan area for over 20 years.

For more information regarding training or substance abuse treatment, call Bradford Health Services at (334) 671-1130.

Bradford Health Offers Free Training

Interested In AnEducation Career?

Educators, alumni, substitute teachers or individuals interested in a career in education have the opportunity to take part in a Teachers’ Fair being held at the Troy University Dothan Campus in Malone Hall Thursday, March 9, from 9-11 a.m.

Individuals may register for the fair by visiting http://troy.edu/careerservices and looking for the registration page under the Announcements column/Dothan Campus Events in the center of the page.

For more information, Joanne Krist at (334) 983-6556, ext. 1223 or email jkrist@troy.edu.

www.dothan.com 9

BusinessBriefs

Dothan West Family Medicine334-699-5994Ozark Primary Care 334-443-0310

Whether it’s for a checkup or something more serious, you and your family need convenient, accessible healthcare. Fortunately, the providers at Flowers Medical Group are making it easier than ever to get primary care. Ask about same-day appointments.

ASK ABOUT SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS AT OUR SIX LOCATIONS.

Family Medicine Dothan 334-944-7094Internal Medicine and Pediatrics 334-305-0365

Hometown Medicine850-547-4440Internal Medicine Associates334-793-5074

FlowersMedicalGroup.com

94498_FLOW_PCP_4_75x4_1845c.indd 2 2/15/17 11:57 AM

YOURCHAMBER

You Want To Receive This New Benefit!Tired of the emails? Want to get quicker and timely reminders of chamber events? Then

join our text notification process and stay informed on all that is happening at your chamber!The Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce is always striving to increase the value of

your membership, and that’s why we have created an electronic account for each chamber representative that is listed in each member’s account. And if you are not listed as a representative, you can create an account.

Visit www.dothan.com, click on the “Log In” tab in the far right corner and then click on “Forget Your Password” and the system will send you a temporary password, which you can change once you log in.

Set up your preferences. Serve on a committee. Get more involved. Get text updates on events and ribbon cuttings.

Questions? Contact Melia McKean, director of communications, at (334) 792-5138 or mmckean@dothan.com.

Ingram Selected To Serve On RLI Board

Tim Ingram, owner of Ingram Land and Development, LLC, was recently selected to serve on the Realtors Land Institute’s Board of Directors. He will serve as director for the Southern District.

Realtors Land Institute is a membership organization created for land experts. Members specialize in land brokerage related to all types of land. Membership is open to all land professionals, as well as agents looking to become land professionals, practicing in the industry as well as industry partners.

The organization provides the education, tools, advice and networking opportunities that are the foundation for all of the land professionals to become the best in the business. RLI continually strives to maintain its status as the association for a global network of land professionals by providing members with the tools and benefits they need to build their business and exceed.

For more information about the services Ingram Land and Development offers, give the office a call at (334) 585-9001 or visit www.ingramland.com.

Tim Ingram (far right), owner of Ingram Land and Development, LLC, was recently selected to serve on the Realtors Land Institutes’s Board of Directors. Picture (l-r) are 2017 President - Craig King, JP King Auction; President-Elect - Calvin Perryman, ALC Great Southern Land; Secretary/Treasurer - Beth Young, Cyprus Partners; and Director for Southern District - Ingram.

Landmark Park Presents Spring Farm DayPlowing with horses and mules, old fashioned

music and sheep shearing will all be found during Landmark Park’s Spring Farm Day Saturday, March 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Spring Farm Day offers a glimpse back in time to life on the farm in the 1890s in spring. A variety of demonstrations will take place throughout the day. Come watch quilting, chair caning, bee keeping and border collies. Smell the woodstove cooking and try your hand at plowing. Master Gardeners will work in the Kitchen Garden, and visitors should make sure to visit the kid’s area.

Live music will also take place throughout the day. The Gazebo stage will feature bluegrass music, while the Landmark Dulcimer Club will perform folk tunes in the Waddell House.

Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and active military, $4 for children and free for children age 2 and under. Park members are admitted free.

For more information, contact the park at (334) 794-3452 or visit www.landmarkparkdothan.com.

Spring Farm Day

10 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS MARCH 2017

BusinessBriefs

Three unlikely friends take control of their office and learn there is nothing they can’t do, even in a man’s world. Southeast Alabama Community Theatre will present 9 to 5 The Musical, with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and book by Patricia Resnick, at 7 p.m. nightly at the Dothan Opera House Tuesday-Saturday, March 14-18.

Based on the seminal 1980 hit movie, set in the late 1970s, this hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era is outrageous, thought-provoking and even a little romantic. Pushed to the boiling point, three female co-workers concoct a plan to get even with a “sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot” of

a male boss. These ladies live out their wildest fantasy to give him the boot, and while he is out of commission, take control of the company.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $23 for students, seniors 65+ and military with ID

(limit two). Tickets can be purchased online at www.seact.com, www.dothanciviccenter.org or by calling the Dothan Civic Center Box Office at (334) 615-3175 between 8:30 a.m. to

4:30 p.m.On performance dates, the Dothan Opera

House lobby opens at 6 p.m. with tickets on sale if the performance is not sold out. Reserved seating begins at 6:30 p.m.

SEACT Brings 1980’s Movie To The Stage

Friday & SaTUrday • 9am - 6pmmarch 17 & 18

• Floor covering• WindoWS, doorS & Siding• BaTh & KiTchen remodeling • landScaping • decoraTing • home SecUriTy • graniTe• oUTdoor FUrniTUre• home prodUcTS & ServiceS• eSSenTial oilS

Presented By:

Dothan Civic Center

limited Booth Space is available!

$5.00 Admission benefits WiregrAss

HAbitAt for HumAnity

doThan civic cenTer

WiregraSS

eXpo

DOOR PRIZES!

W I R E G R A S S

for more information Call334-702-2600 or visit dothaneagle.com/homeshow

Clear your calendars for Alabama State Games XXXV. Registration is now open to participate in the games. This Olympic-style event will take place June 9-11, in the co-host partner counties of Houston and Dale and the cities of Dothan and Ozark.

This is Alabama’s largest multi-sport competition for youth and adults. With over 20 sports to choose from and a free Olympic-style Opening Ceremony to kick off the weekend, you don’t want to miss this opportunity to compete for State Games gold, silver and bronze medals. Particular sports are qualifiers for the State Games of America, held in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Aug. 3-6.

The Opening Ceremony, which is free to the public, will take place at the National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds. Registration for all sports begins March 1.

For more information or to register for a sport, visit www.alagames.com. Or to watch a short video about the history of the Alabama State Games, visit https://youtu.be/QRbwsOWL5rk.

Wiregrass To Again Host Alabama State Games

Highland Oaks

May 18,2017

Save theDateTo Reserve or Sponsor (334) 836-4518bekij@southernbone.comSOU

THER

N BONE & JOINT SPEC

IALISTS

The Alfred Saliba Center for Families will present a free four-week job simulation program called Camp H.I.R.E. (Helping Individuals Retain Employment) beginning Monday, March 6, and running through March 30.

Camp H.I.R.E. offers a no-nonsense approach to helping those who are serious about finding and keeping a job. The camp provides participants with: • Application and interviewing skills;• Resume and job search assistance;• Body language, attitude adjustment and

effective conflict management training;• Work ethics;• Telephone and work etiquette;• Career planning; and• Job coach services for up to one year after

graduation.Camp hours are Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.

until 4 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m. until noon. A required orientation will be held Thursday, March 2, at 8:30 a.m.

To register for an interview or for more information, call the Alfred Saliba Center at (334) 712-0090.

Saliba Center Offers Job-Seekers Boot Camp

www.dothan.com 11

BusinessBriefs

DAYP Invites You ToJoin Them

The Dothan Area Young Professionals invite you to join them for the following upcoming events:

St. Patrick’s Day Social Thursday, March 16, 5:30 p.m.

DAYP will hold its St. Patrick’s Day Social at The Thirsty Pig Thursday, March 15, at 5:30 p.m. The Thirsty Pig has plenty of craft beer pints for DAYP members and non-members alike to enjoy. Each DAYP member will receive a ticket for one beer flight of their choosing, and the guys at Omaha Brewing in Omaha, Georgia will also be on site with special selections to sample. There will be food and additional beer/wine selections available for purchase. For more information, contact Laura Burnett at (205) 454-6029 or laura.h.burnett@gmail.com.

Human Foosball TournamentSaturday, April 1, 2 p.m.

Presented by Dothan Real Estate Team, the DAYP will host the Third Annual Human Foosball Tournament Saturday, April 1, at Wadlington Park on N. Foster Street. Six-person teams are $180, and the winner will receive prizes and a trophy. Food trucks, refreshments and other activities will be available. For registration or questions, contact Scott Fain at (334) 796-8060 or sfain@capsouthpartners.com.

DAYP endeavors to provide young professionals an avenue to connect with one another for development, networking, community involvement, philanthropy and for fun along the way. For more information about DAYP, visit www.dothanyp.com or check them out on Facebook.

Four Star Managers Graduate Dealer AcademyTwo Four Star Freightliner employees, Scott

Coleson and Scott Dixon, graduated from the American Truck Dealers Academy recently during the organization’s convention in New Orleans. The ATD Academy is designed for future operators of truck dealerships and provides the fundamentals needed to operate a successful and profitable business.

Coleson, who got his start at Four Star Freightliner as a college intern, is now the senior accountant for the company and works primarily from Four Star’s Dothan, Alabama location.

“I gained a lot of knowledge and experience from the ATD Academy that I’ll be able to bring back to the dealership,” said Coleson. “It is encouraging to work for a company that promotes growth for its employees and is always pushing us to reach higher.”

Dixon has been with Four Star for three years and serves as the company’s operation manager. He is based in the Montgomery office, but works with the parts and service departments at all six Four Star locations.

“The concepts and knowledge I gained from the Dealer Academy will help me for the rest of my career,” said Dixon. “I am very thankful to Jerry Kocan for believing enough in me to invest in my future.”

Four Star Freightliner Dealer Principal Jerry Kocan said Coleson and Dixon are future leaders and decided to establish a developmental plan for them.

“The final piece of their development plan was to have them grow together and bond through the ATD Dealer Academy,” said Kocan. “It is the best offering we have in our industry to educate and develop managers. We are very proud of their growth and graduation.”

For more information, contact Amanda Granger at (800) 239-8785, ext. 1246 or email amandagranger@fourstarfreightliner.com.

Two Four Star Freightliner employees, Scott Dixon (left) and Scott Coleson (far right) Dixon, recently graduated from the American Truck Dealers Academy. Also pictured is Four Star Freightliner Dealer Principal Jerry Kocan.

SARCOA will present its annual long-term care seminar Friday, March 17, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center Inc.’s Sterling Event Services Rotary Hall. This year’s seminar focus will be on Compassion Fatigue with caregivers and younger residents in long-term care with Dr. BC Farnham as the keynote speaker.

Seminar seating is limited and interested participants are encouraged to register early. Continuing education units are available for nurses, social workers, assisted living administrators and nursing home administrators; fee is $45. The seminar is 6.5 contact hours. General attendance (no CEUs) is $10 and includes lunch.

For additional details on topics, presenters and schedule of events, visit www.sarcoa.org.

For more information and/or to register, contact SARCOA at (334) 793-6843 or (800) 239-3507.

Registration Now Open For Long-Term Care Seminar

12 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS MARCH 2017

• Maintain funding for workforce development training programs for new and existing industries.

• Continue and strengthen the regional and state workforce development councils.

• Strengthen adult education programs to ensure that more adults will earn a GED for those who do not complete high school.

• Ensure that education and job training programs available to Alabama students result in nationally recognized credentials relevant to job opportunities.

• Encourage high schools to promote greater emphasis on “essential skills” which are critical to job readiness and success.

• Continue to support strong economic development incentives that enhances state and local empowerment to assist with new and existing business and monitor any efforts to change recently passed incentives.

• Find solutions to increase revenue for local and state road systems to generate economic growth and improve quality of life.

• Make permanent the MRO aviation tax incentive which is scheduled to expire in 2022.

• Support the Alabama Community College system budget increase for workforce development including expansion of dual enrollment.

• Continue to support funding for Alabama First Class Pre-K programs and initiatives that are critical to school success and lifelong learning.

• Establish a cabinet level position in the executive branch for small business.

Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 State Legislative Agenda

The Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce held an Eggs and Issues General Membership Breakfast for its members in late January. The event brought together Wiregrass legislators with business and community leaders to discuss the issues that will shape our state’s future.

The event featured a preview of the 2017 legislative session, a Chamber member electronic survey on legislative issues and a question and answer session with officials.

Eggs And IssuesChamber Hosts General Membership Breakfast

Rep. Paul Lee,86th District (Houston)

Rep. Steve Clouse,93rd District (Dale, Houston)

Rep. Dexter Grimsley,85th District (Henry, Houston)

Rep. Donnie Chesteen,87th District (Geneva, Houston)

Eggs and Issues Survey ResultsHow optimistic are you that 2017 will be a good year economically for your business and for the business community as a whole?

49% Very Optimistic43% Moderately Optimistic8% Somewhat Optimistic0% Not At All Optimistic

Last year, the legislature debated a 6 cent increase to the gas tax to improve Alabama’s roads and bridges and required all of the money to be spent on fixing roads and bridges. On average, this increase would cost a driver $5 more a month. Do you support this plan?

81% Yes 5% No6% I would support more than 6 cents8% 6 cents is too much, but ZI would support less

Do you support the state of Alabama building new prisons to reduce overcrowding and avoid federal intervention in the prison system?

69% Yes31% No

Do you support the Alabama legislature passing a referendum to allow the citizens of Alabama to vote on a state lottery?

67% Yes14% No19% Maybe, depends on the details of the referendum

If a lottery were enacted in Alabama, how do you believe the money should be spent?

12% In the general fund budget41% In the education budget47% Split between the general fund and education budgets

GovernmentalAffairs

www.dothan.com 13

WorkforceDevelopment

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics designates eight education levels that workers typically need to enter an occupation; those levels and the 2013 nationwide percentages are: • Less than high school – 27 percent• High school diploma or equivalent – 39 percent• Some college, no degree – 1 percent• Postsecondary non-degree award – 6 percent• Associate’s degree – 4 percent• Bachelor’s degree – 18 percent• Master’s degree – 2 percent• Doctoral or professional degree – 3 percent

Interestingly, in 2013 the states with the largest shares of employment in occupations that typically require a high school diploma or equivalent includes Alabama, which holds the number two spot.

State EmploymentShare (%) Number of Jobs Median Annual

Wage ($)

U.S. Total 38.9 51,519,730 35,580

Kentucky 41.7 742,710 32,130

Alabama 41.5 765,320 31,860

Wyoming 41.5 115,740 39,090

Louisiana 41.4 780,010 33,170

Indiana 41.3 1,180,040 33,430

Utah 41.3 512,630 33,620

Wisconsin 41.2 1,115,140 34,970

Oklahoma 40.7 635,050 31,370

Mississippi 40.7 440,650 29,270

Kansas 40.6 542,090 33,440

Alabama was also in the leaders of states that had the largest shares of employment that typically requires a postsecondary non-degree award.

State EmploymentShare (%) Number of Jobs Median Annual

Wage ($)

U.S. Total 5.9 7,874,230 35,120

North Dakota 8.6 36,390 38,620

Arkansas 8.3 95,460 31,050

Nebraska 7.8 72,170 34,400

Iowa 7.3 108,690

Mississippi 7.2 78,340 30,730

Alabama 7.1 130,840 32,400

Maine 7.1 41,310 32,250

Tennessee 7.1 190,390 33,210

Indiana 6.9 196,740 34,660

Louisiana 6.9 129,370 33,210

Education, Employment, Earnings, Licensing And Credentials

Steve Turkoski, Project Manager

In addition to education requirements, many occupations require certification and licensing. Certification:• Awarded by a professional organization or other nongovernmental body• Is not legally required in order to work in an occupation• Requires demonstrating competency to do a specific job, often

through an examination process.License:• Awarded by a governmental licensing agency• Gives legal authority to work in an occupation• Requires meeting predetermined criteria, such as having a degree or

passing a state-administered exam.• Employed Persons Nation-wide, over 25, by education level that had

a certification or license, by percent-2015

Education Level With A License With A Certificate, But No License

Less than a high school diploma 7.3% 1.1%

High school diploma, no college 14.3% 2.1%

Some college, no degree 19.9% 3.3%

Associate degree 31.4% 4.6%

Bachelor’s degree only 26.4% 3.9%

Advanced Degree 47.3% 4.7%

The state of Alabama lists 86 occupations that require licenses for employment within the state. Nationally, 22 percent of all occupations require licenses.

14 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS MARCH 2017

Laureate Nomination FormDeadline: June 1, 2017

Name of Nominee:

Born (date and place):

Deceased (date and place):

Company/Organization (if currently employed):

Work Address: Work phone:

Web Address: Work E-mail:

Present Title/Position: No of Years:

Mailing Address:

Please provide a biographical description of the nominee (not to exceed two pages) and on a separate sheet please submit information for each section below (1-5). Feel free to include supporting documents (news clippings, magazine articles, etc.). A photo (preferably color) will be used in the program and MUST be submitted with the biographical/supporting documents.

1. Significant achievements – any achievements that are first-time achievements

2. Awards and honors bestowed upon nominee (chronologically)

3. Memberships

4. Professional, business or vocational history (chronologically)

5. Photo of the nominee for the program

Nomination submitted by: __________________________________

Address: _________________________________________________

City:__________________________State: _______ Zip: __________

Telephone: _______________________________________________

Email: __________________________________________________

Nominations are due by June 1, 2017. Mail your nomination to:

Dothan Business Hall of FameDothan Area Chamber of Commerce

Attention: Janice ShepardP. O. Box 638

Dothan, AL 36302

The Dothan Business Hall of Fame’s board of advisors is now accepting nominations for the 2017 Dothan Business Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame’s mission is to recognize the accomplishments and contributions of our outstanding business leaders, to perpetuate and inspire values of entrepreneurial spirit, personal integrity and community leadership in all generations. To be eligible for selection, a person must have made a significant impact on the development of Dothan and/or Houston County by promoting the free enterprise system and entrepreneurship; by demonstrating civic leadership; and by their philanthropy and humanitarianism toward their fellow citizens.

2017 Small Business Person Of The Year Award Nominations

To nominate a small business person, fill out the information below. (Please type or print)

Nominee: _______________________________________________

Company: _______________________________________________

Phone Number: __________________________________________

Nominated By: ___________________________________________

Your Phone Number or Email Address: _______________________

Why this individual deserves recognition: (For additional comments, attach an additional sheet.)

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

Return this form to: Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce • Attn: Hayden Camp

P.O. Box 638, Dothan, AL 36302 • Fax: (334) 794-4796Or email Hayden at hcamp@dothan.comNominations are due by March 15, 2017.

Thank you for your nomination!

DOTHAN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce has been presenting the Small Business Person of the Year award to deserving outstanding business owners since 1987. Agnes Simpson of WOOF Radio was the Chamber’s first Small Business Person of the Year award recipient. This prestigious recognition is awarded annually to an individual owner of a local small business (1-25 employees). The candidate must show growth or sustainability of their business, have strong employee relations, show commitment to social responsibility and exemplify strong community involvement. Although the candidates will be judged in all of these areas they do not have to excel in every area to win.

Do you know a small business owner with a success story and who is making a contribution to the local community and the economy? If so, nominate them. The Chamber will accept nominations for the 2017 Small Business Person of the Year from January 15 to March 15, 2017. The winner will be announced in May at the Small Business Week General Membership Luncheon.

Each nominee must meet the following criteria:

• Employ between one and 25 people.

• Be the founder, partner or owner of the business.

• Business must be a member in good standing of the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce.

• Have been an active Chamber member for at least three continuous years.

• Business must have been operating in the Dothan area for a minimum of three years.

• Business must exhibit growth and longevity, involvement in community development, innovative practices, and success in the face of adversity.

• Adhere to ethical business practices.

• Candidate can not have won award within the past 10 years.

www.dothan.com 15

Editor's Note: Sources for this information vary; call the Chamber for details. Data as of 2/7/17. Visit www.dothan.com for the most current information.

EconomicIndicatorsLabor Force for the Dothan MSA for December:

61,733 in 2015; 62,287 in 201658,141 in 2015; 58,587 in 2016 Employed

Unemployment for the Dothan MSA for December:5.8% in 2015; 5.9% in 2016

Residential Building Permits for the City of Dothan for December:15 issued ($4.47 million) in 2015; 20 issued ($5.14 million) in 2016

Home Sales in Dothan for December:77 sold in 2015; 92 sold in 2016

Enplanements for Dothan Regional Airport for December:4,019 in 2015; 4,128 in 2016

Houston County & Dothan Sales and Use Tax Collections ($) for December:

$1,595,467 in 2015; $1,579,839 in 2016 (County)$5,771,666 in 2015; $5,644,022 in 2016 (City)

A Publication of theDothan Area Chamber of CommerceMarch 2017Vol. 44, No. 6 (USPS 700-660)© Copyright 2017

ConnectionsC H A M B E R

CONNECTIONS

Chamber Connections is published monthly (USPS 700-660) for the members of the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce,

102 Jamestown Blvd., Dothan, AL 36301. Subscription rate is $24 annually. Postmaster: Send address changes to Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce,

P.O. Box 638, Dothan, AL 36302. Periodicals postage is paid at Dothan, AL and additional mailing office.

meeting shapingm e e t i n g t h e c h a l l e n g e s h a p i n g t h e f u t u r e

DOTHAN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.dothan.com

(334) 792-5138chamber@dothan.com