Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce April 2017

ConnectionsCONNECTIONS

A New Focus OnWORKFORCEDEVELOPMENTPAGE 5

CAE Training Center Holds

GRAND OPENINGPAGE 12

#ShopAlabama

A MovementPAGE 14

EventsCalendar

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www.dothan.com(334) 792-5138

INSIDEWhat’s

April 2017

2 Events Calendar

3 Ribbon Cuttings

5 Cover Story

6-10 Business Briefs

13 Workforce Development

14 Small Business Development

Also In This Issue 7 Coleman Worldwide Renews

Partnership

8 Are You A Superhero?

9 Let’s Golf “Fore” Education

13 First Annual Youth Business Summit

April

Your cover photo features Zeke Smith, Alabama Workforce Council chairman and Alabama Power’s executive vice president of external affairs, and Ryan Richards, Southeast A l a b a m a Wo r k s

director of workforce development.

Dothan Area Young Professionals’ Human Fooseball Tournament – 2 p.m.Location: N. Foster Street (Wadlington Park)Community-Wide Prayer Breakfast – 7:30 a.m.Location: 126 N. St. Andrews St. (Dothan Civic Center)*See page 7 for more information.Ambassador and Diplomat Committee Meeting – 9 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)Youth Leadership Dothan-Houston County Public Safety Day – 7:45 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)LEADS Group 1 Meeting – 8 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)Ribbon Cutting: Home Mortgage of America – 10:30 a.m.Location: 1284 Westgate Parkway Ribbon Cutting: Pure Barre Dothan – 10:30 a.m.Location: 2620 Montgomery Highway, Suite 7 Ribbon Cutting: NAPA Auto Parts – 10:30 a.m.Location: 2302 Ross Clark CircleTroy University Small Business Counseling – 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)*Reservations required: (334) 792-5138Ribbon Cutting: CPay NWF – 10:30 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)LEADS Group 2 Meeting – 8 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber) Ribbon Cutting: America’s Best Contacts & Eyeglasses – 10:30 a.m.Location: 4601 Montgomery Highway, #110 Good Friday – Chamber ClosedRibbon Cutting: McDonalds – 10:30 a.m.Location: 2101 Ross Clark Circle LEADS Group 1 Meeting – 8 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)Board of Directors’ Meeting – 8:15 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber) Leadership Dothan Economic Development Day – 7:45 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)Ribbon Cutting: Flowers Medical Group Dothan Neurology – 4 p.m.Location: 348 Healthwest Drive 36303Ribbon Cutting: Alabama Kidney Foundation – 8:45 a.m.Location: 501 Recreation Road (Westgate Park Kiwanis Pavilion)Ribbon Cutting: Dickens & Mathis Janitorial Service – 10:30 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)LEADS Group 2 Meeting – 8 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)Small Business Seminar: The Regulatory Landscape For Employers: What Changes, If Any, Will The Trump Administration Make? – 11:30 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)*See page 14 for more information. Reservations required: (334) 792-5138Ribbon Cutting: Wesley Place on Honeysuckle – 11:30 a.m.Location: 718 Honeysuckle RoadHouston County Spirit of Service Day – 8 a.m.Location: Various

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Your Cover Photo

Dothan Area Chamber of CommerceApril 2017

ConnectionsCONNECTIONS

A New Focus OnWORKFORCEDEVELOPMENTPAGE 5

CAE Training Center Holds

GRAND OPENINGPAGE 12

# Shop Alabama

A MovementPAGE 14

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2 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS APRIL 2017

The Hein Law Firm, LLC443 W. Main St.

Dothan, AL 36301Vernon Hein

(334) 699-2221www.mydothanlawyer.com

ATTORNEYS

Townplace Suites201 Retail Drive

Dothan, AL 36303Chris Bailey

(334) 944-6400www.marriott.com/dhnts

HOTELS/MOTELS

NexGenBenefits, Guru112 Sockeye Court Dothan, AL 36301

Jennie Welch(270) 312-5945

www.nexgenbenefits.guruINSURANCE

United Country Properties South Land, LLC

325 Ross Clark CircleDothan, AL 36303

Clay Patrick(334) 793-0079

www.propertiessouth.comREAL ESTATE –

RESIDENTIAL AND/OR COMMERCIAL

SAMC Westway Medical Office4550 W. Main St.

Dothan, AL 36301Dr. Brandy Duke

Ryan York(334) 446-4700www.samc.org

REHABILITATION SERVICES

HEALTH CARE

REMODELHampton Inn & Suites

By Hilton4684 Montgomery Highway

Dothan, AL 36303Brad Kendrick

(334) 671-7672www.dothansuites.

hamptoninn.com HOTELS/MOTELS

Southeast Alabama Highland Games

P.O. Box 10553Dothan, AL 36304-2553

Chris Bailey(334) 618-1232

www.seahg.comSPORTING EVENT

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 Hayden Camp, director of membership, at (334) 792-5138 or hcamp@dothan.com.

Thank you!Your membership is an investment in

the future of your business and the economicprogress of the Wiregrass area.

www.dothan.com 3

Clip and add these to your Membership Directory.NewMembers

RenewingMembers

Air Force ReserveNicole MaussAFRC Eastern Recruiting Squadron201 W. Audette Drive, Building 3107, Room 146Eglin AFB, Field 3, FL 32542-6622Ph: (850) 883-6385Fax: (850) 883-6536NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONSAmerica’s Best Contacts & EyeglassesLatoria ALexanderDothan Pavillion4601 Montgomery Highway #110Dothan, AL 36303Ph: (334) 673-0350Fax: (334) 673-0333www.americasbest.comOPTOMETRISTSBrannon Stand Auto Mart LLCLeroy Medford2063 S. Brannon Stand RoadDothan, AL 36305Ph: (334) 790-7035Fax: (334) 446-3834AUTOMOBILE SALES & SERVICEChiropractic Health Institute, PCValerie Eriksen2500 Flowers Chapel RoadDothan, AL 36305Ph: (334) 793-7992www.gohealthyforlife.comCHIROPRACTORSWEIGHT LOSS SPECIALISTS

CPay NWFJillian Davis111 Pond Cypress Loop (Physical)3997 Commons Drive, Suite LDestin, FL 32541Ph: (334) 796-3599www.cpaynwf.comPAYMENT TECHNOLOGYLOANS / MARKETINGDickens & Mathis Janitorial Service, LLCAngelica Dickens224 Sherwood DriveP.O. Box 10018Dothan, AL 36304Ph: (334) 648-3480CLEANING - RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIALEco Heating and Cooling, LLCChristopher Brishke3506 Stanley RoadDothan, AL 36303Ph: (334) 435-1313Fax: (334) 460-2086www.tristateecoair.comAIR CONDITIONING & HEATING CONTRACTORSHardwick’s Flooring, LLCSteve Hardwick1432 Westgate ParkwayDothan, AL 36303Ph: (334) 673-5632Fax: (334) 671-5633FLOOR COVERING

The Hogg & Gartlan Law Firm, LLCAaron Gartlan408 S. Foster St. P.O. Box 5508Dothan, AL 36301Ph: (334) 699-4625Fax: (334) 699-3972www.dothanalabamalawyer.comATTORNEYSShwinco Architectural ProductsTeri Smith171 Jet Services WayDothan, AL 36303Ph: (334) 556-1000Fax: (334) 556-1005www.shwinco.comMANUFACTURERSSimply Cakes, LLCAshley Bagwell7985 U.S. Highway 84 WestDothan, AL 36305Ph: (334) 692-3748BAKERY & GIFTS

40 Or More YearsCarriage House ApartmentsCoca-Cola Bottling Co. United Inc.Colony Square ApartmentsDothan EagleDothan Hardware and Supply Co. Inc.King’s Appliances Inc.Palmer Electric Construction Co. Polyengineering Inc.WOW! Business30-39 YearsAction Buick GMCBurnett Valuation Services, LLCColdwell Banker - Alfred Saliba RealtyDothan Country ClubProfessional Lane Dental AssociatesSoutheast Alabama Medical CenterSoutheast CardiologyWomen’s Health Care of Dothan, PC25-29 YearsAnesthesia Consultants Medical Group, PCERA Jack Hughes RealtySunSouth John DeereUnifirst Corp. Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center Inc.20-24 YearsCommunity Bank and Trust (CB&T)DANCO Industrial Contractors Inc.Dothan Specialty ClinicEdward Jones - Randy Hurst, Financial Advisor

Helms Management & Financial SolutionsHighland Oaks Golf CourseOffice Depot #274Southern Nuclear Operations Co./Plant FarleySurgery Center South15-19 YearsBuilders Door and HardwareExchange Center for Child Abuse PreventionRealTime, LLCSunSouth BankTarragon Hills Apartments, Ltd.The Mobile AtticThe Terrace at Grove ParkToyota of DothanWASTE MANAGEMENT of Dothan10-14 YearsCarnes Chiropractic & Wellness CenterConstruction Partners Inc.Davis DirectDothan Association of RealtorsHouston Printing Co. Inc.Lewis Construction LLCPraestare Engineering Inc.Prim & Mendheim, LLCSERVPRO of DothanVivialWiregrass Construction Co. Inc.Wiregrass Orthodontic SpecialistsWyatt Shiver ConstructionZack’s Family Restaurant & Catering5-9 YearsApaxx Inc.

Dothan Area Chamber FoundationExpress Employment ProfessionalsFaulkner UniversityGeorge T. Bagby State Park & LodgeGood Morning Mattress CenterHenry County Health & Rehabilitation FacilityHoliday Inn Express Hotel & SuitesHoliday Inn HotelLaQuinta Inns & SuitesPans & Petals CateringPatti Rutland Jazz Inc.Road-Runners Delivery ServicesSecurity Finance Corp. of AlabamaThe Grand on FosterU.S. Coupling & Accessories Inc.Wells Fargo Bank, NA1-4 YearsAmerican Construction Training, LLCDothan-Houston County Rotary ClubEagle Eye Outfitters Inc.Enlivify Total Solutions, LLCFolklore Brewing & MeaderyGenesis Housing Development Corp. Southeast Alabama Highland GamesTGI Creative ServicesThe Main Event, LLC dba The Thirsty PigThe Real Estate GroupTransformation MediaWIRED Ministries Inc.

Mark Your CalendarSmall Business Week

May 15-19, 2017Monday, May 15, 2-4 p.m.

Afternoon Seminar: Fast Lane Marketing: From Zero To Profitable Real Quick with Facebook Ads

Presenter: Michael Wiley, Appogee MarketingLocation: Chamber Board Room

Cost: FREE To Attend*Pre-registration required (334) 792-5138

Tuesday, May 16, NoonSmall Business Week General Membership LuncheonSpeaker: Steve Maddox, Verizon Wireless Advantage

Location: Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center Inc’s Sterling Event Services Rotary Hall

Cost: $15 per person; $150 reserved table (seats eight)*Pre-registration required (334) 792-5138

Wednesday, May 17, 7:30-9 a.m.Good Morning Networking (Business Connections)

Location: Hilton Garden InnCost: FREE to attend

Thursday, May 18, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.Luncheon Seminar: Computer Data Backup, Use It Or Lose It!

Presenter: Brad Nelson, Global TechForceLocation: Chamber Board Room

Cost: $5 per person*Pre-registration required (334) 792-5138

Friday, May 19, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.Ladies Only Luncheon

Presenter: Kristen Sharp, Liberty Learning FoundationLocation: Chamber Board Room

Cost: $15 per person*Pre-registration required (334) 792-5138

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4 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS APRIL 2017

A New FocusOn Workforce Development

With the wave of retiring baby boomers and the addition of new jobs, a Georgetown University study projects there will be 790,000 job openings in Alabama between 2010 and 2020, while at the same time, a worker shortfall of 114,000. Currently, there are 5.6 million jobs unfilled in the United States with 75 percent of those jobs do not require a four-year degree. Americans have accumulated a staggering $1.3 trillion in student loan debt and a skills gap that is leading to a larger divide in fulfilling our current workforce needs.

Those facts present a real challenge for the nation as a whole and particularly Alabama. That challenge is the driving force behind AlabamaWorks, the state’s newly revamped and unified workforce development system. Its mission is to recruit, train and empower a highly skilled workforce driven by business and industry needs, giving Alabama businesses and citizens the competitive advantage they need to be successful

In our region, Southeast AlabamaWorks is the place for you and your business to plug into. It is the key workforce development launching point to share concerns, collaborate with similar industries and get results for business and industry needs. Southeast AlabamaWorks serves 10 counties in southeast Alabama including Barbour, Butler, Coffee, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston and Pike.

Whether you are a new or existing employer looking for skilled workers, a job seeker looking for work, or someone looking for training for a promising career, Southeast AlabamaWorks is where you should start. It works with businesses in the region to identify their workforce needs, help job seekers get the training and education they need to meet those needs, and bring employers and job seekers together.

One of the ways Southeast AlabamaWorks has helped develop the skills and training of regional employers is with assistance from one of the state’s training partners – Alabama Industrial Development Training. When any business has specific needs that requires training for new hires or current employees, AIDT offers comprehensive services that include developing curriculum, screening and interviewing of potential new employees, and arranging hands-on training to get prospective or current employees to the skill level they need to be successful for local companies.

Southeast AlabamaWorks also partners with our regional community colleges - Wallace, Enterprise State and Lurleen B. Wallace - to train students in the skills it takes to find a high-demand, high-skill and high-wage career. Some of the successful programs funded at the community colleges include robotic welding technology, aviation maintenance/advanced composites, industrial maintenance and automotive technology.

In addition, Southeast AlabamaWorks also partners with local Alabama Career Centers in hosting job fairs, working with eligible citizens to provide scholarships for high-skilled occupations, and helping regional industries by subsidizing up to 75 percent of new-employee wages for up to six months, via the On-the-Job Program.

Southeast AlabamaWorks also engages with local K-12 education systems. It works closely with school career and technical education programs to help guide program development to ensure proper courses and certifications are being offered to students. The programs strive to develop students who will fill the regional pipeline of jobs that are available in high-demand, high-wage and high-skill professions with a certificate or credential to help them with employment. They also help students understand and practice the all-important essential “soft skills” that will help in any employment opportunity.

One of the signature programs of Southeast AlabamaWorks is its annual educational hands-on career experience for eighth-graders called Wiregrass WORKS. The program’s second event was held in February at the National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds. During the course of the three-day event, almost 6,000 students, teachers and administrators from 96 schools in 16 counties from three states were able to interact with more than 80 different experience operators from 10 different business and industry clusters. These experiences lead to direct career paths that are available right here in southeast Alabama.

Earlier this year, Southeast AlabamaWorks welcomed Ryan Richards as director of workforce development. Richards is a native of Dothan, where he graduated from Dothan High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree in education from Troy University. He has spent the past seven years in education, with six of those as the Honors and AP Chemistry teacher at Northview High School. Richards joins the team with an enthusiasm and passion for helping bridge the gap between education and industry.

To become engaged with Southeast AlabamaWorks, contact Richards at (334) 714-4250 or rrichards@southeastalabamaworks.com. For more information, visit www.southeastalabamaworks.com.

CoverStory

www.dothan.com 5

BusinessBriefs

Congratulations to the Ambassador and Diplomat Team of the Month “True Spirit” for claiming this month’s title. Pictured (seated l-r) are Tara Ryals, Troy University; Joyce Tyson, Century 21 James Grant Realty; (standing) Austin Parker, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp.; Rona Miller, Holloway Credit Solutions, LLC. Team member not pictured is Matt Bolin, Coleman Worldwide Moving.

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

True Spirit

Ambassadors&Diplomats

Elaine CovingtonHealthLink

The Alabama Retail Association will accept nominations for the 2017 Alabama Retailer of the Year and the Alabama Centennial Retailer awards through Monday, May 15.

Now in its 18th year, the Alabama Retailer of the Year awards recognize outstanding retailers who have demonstrated a blend of sound business practices with commitment to their communities, customers and employees.

Nominees must own, operate or manage a retail business with a physical presence in Alabama and that Alabama location must have been in operation for a minimum of five years. To be considered a retail operation, a business must collect state and local sales taxes. (You can) nominate your favorite retailer at www.alabamaretail.org/retaileroftheyearnomination.

Retail businesses that began in 1917 or before are eligible to be recognized as Alabama Centennial Retailers. Retailers nominated will be contacted and asked to provide a brief history and other information about their business. Help Alabama Retailer recognize a retailer that has been in business for 100 years or more by filling out the form at www.alabamaretail.org/centennialretailernomination.

Source: Reprinted by permission Alabama Retail Association. Originally published February 2017, “Alabama Retailer,” Issue 1, Vol 17, www.alabamaretail.org.

Alabama Retailer Of The Year And Centennial Retailer Nominations

Due May 15

Temple Emanu-El Plans Deli DayTemple Emanu-el will host its annual Deli Day selling a bag lunch to

individuals and business for $12 each Wednesday, May 4. Enjoy a fabulous deli-style quarter pound Kosher corned beef

sandwich on Jewish rye bread, a Kosher dill pickle, bag of Lay’s potato chips, Grey Poupon mustard, a Sweet & Sassy chocolate chip cookie and a picnic pack created by the John Conti Center at Vaughn-Blumberg Services and Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center Inc.

Lunches will be ready for pick up at the Temple from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on that Thursday. Delivery is available on orders of eight or more lunches to the Dothan area location that you request. Deadline to place orders is Friday, April 21, with payment due by Tuesday, April 25.

To place your order, you can (1) buy ticket(s) from members of Temple Emanu-El, (2) call the Temple office at (334) 792-5001 for an order form, or (3) visit www.dothandeliday.org.

Temple Emanu-El is located at 188 N. Park Ave., Dothan.

6 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS APRIL 2017

BusinessBriefs

Adding to its regional presence, Camellia Home Health and Hospice has acquired the Dothan and Demopolis, Alabama offices of Compassus Hospice. Camellia cares for thousands of patients on a daily basis across the southeastern United States.

A Mississippi–based health care company founded in 1974, Camellia employs hundreds of dedicated professionals. The company has 32 home-health/hospice offices throughout Mississippi, Louisiana, Tennessee and Alabama and is a Medicare certified, state-licensed provider of home health care, hospice, private duty nursing and pharmaceuticals.

Camellia Healthcare has been serving in Alabama since 2014, including the Gadsden and Huntsville regions. The latest expansion

of the company enables Camellia to provide assistance and jobs for even more of the “Heart of Dixie” state.

Camellia’s CEO Abb Payne explained Camellia is focusing on branching out into Alabama is because “Through this opportunity, we capture the ability to serve almost half of the geography of Alabama, bringing our award-winning health care to some great communities.”

The Dothan office will offer Camellia Hospice services in Barbour, Coffee, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston and Pike counties.

For additional information, call Camellia Healthcare at (334) 671-2290 or visit www.camellia.com.

Camellia Healthcare Acquires Compassus Hospice

Spirit of Serve Set For April 29

The 28th Annual Spirit of Service Day will be held Saturday, April 29. Susan Anderson, co-owner of Eagle Eye Outfitters Inc, will chair the event.

This year’s event is also partnering with Houston County Gives Day, which will take place Friday, April 28, from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Eagle Eye Outfitters. There will be more than 20 nonprofits present with informational booths set up.

For more information on volunteering, or to register a project, contact Linda Kelley, director of community development, at (334) 792-5138 or email lkelley@dothan.com.

20th Annual Community-Wide Prayer Breakfast

Dothan Civic Center April 4, 2017 • 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 .

Guest SpeakerAndy Phillips

8

Coleman Worldwide Moving, a global moving company and agent for Allied Van Lines, is pleased to announce a renewed partnership with Move for Hunger. For 2017, Coleman has agreed to be a Patron Sponsor for the nonprofit organization that is committed to fighting hunger and reducing food waste throughout the United States and Canada.

This marks the fifth anniversary of a relationship between Move for Hunger and Coleman Worldwide Moving. During that relationship, Coleman has assisted with donating more than a quarter-million pounds, or over 300,000 meals, to food banks and food cabinets throughout the country.

“We are very excited and humbled to support the efforts of the Move for Hunger team to tackle a very real problem in all of

our communities,” said Keith Turner, sales and marketing senior vice president. “We are always looking for ways to contribute to every city that our associates call home throughout the United States. Move for Hunger is just one of the small ways that we can support those experiencing their greatest hour of need.”

Move For Hunger is a nonprofit organization that mobilizes the relocation industry to fight hunger and reduce food waste. In addition to collecting food from people who are moving to new homes, Move For Hunger helps companies and individuals across the United States and Canada organize successful food drives.

For more information, or to find out how you can host your own food drive, visit www.moveforhunger.org.

Coleman Worldwide Renews Hunger Partnership

YOURCHAMBER

Spotlight your business. Get more exposure!As a Chamber member, you are entitled to one free business card ad in the

Chamber’s monthly newsletter, Chamber Connections, within 90 days from the date you join. For more information, contact Melia McKean at (334) 792-5138 or mmckean@dothan.com.

www.dothan.com 7

BusinessBriefs

A new year, a new you. The Troy University Dothan Campus will hold a Health and Wellness Fair Tuesday, April 11, in Malone Hall’s Harrison Room from 9 a.m. until noon.

Free and open to the public, the local Wiregrass medical community will be on hand to provide health screenings, information and answer questions.

For more information, call (334) 983-6556, ext. 1204 or email cowinqs@troy.edu.

Troy To Host Health Fair

Mike Schmitz Automotive Group and the Exchange Center For Child Abuse Prevention will host the Sixth Annual Superhero 5K Run/Walk to Prevent Child Abuse Saturday, April 29, at Westgate Park’s Tennis Center. This year’s superhero theme is “Wonder Women” and all proceeds benefit the Exchange Center for Child Abuse Prevention.

On event day, the 5K will beigin at 8 a.m. with a One-Mile Kids’ Fun Run to follow. There will also be inflatables, face painting and tons of superheroes.

Every hero that joins the 5K helps fund critical help for an abused child and ensures that the cycle of abuse is not continued. You

don’t need superpowers to be a hero. Everyone already has the power to break the cycle. Every child needs a hero, but abused children need a superhero.

To register and be a hero for a child, visit www.exchangecap.org. All

registrations before April 14 receives a T-shirt.

Are You A Superhero?

Join The WalkThe Alabama Kidney Foundation will host

the organization’s Fifth Annual Wiregrass Kidney Walk and 5K Saturday, April 22, at Westgate Park’s Kiwanis Pavilion. This year’s Honorary Walk Chairs are Dr. and Mrs. George Veale.

The Alabama Kidney Foundation’s annual walk is a fun event that increases community awareness of kidney disease while raising funds to support the AKF’s assistance programs for kidney patients. Thousands of individual and team walkers will join together to help make a difference in the lives of Alabama’s kidney patients.

The deadline for early bird registration is Friday, April 21. On event day, registration for the run will be at 7:30 a.m. with the run beginning at 8:30 a.m. The registration for the walk will be at 8 a.m. followed by the walk at 9 a.m.

To register, or for more information, contact Lisa at (334) 547-8467, lisab@alkidney.org or visit www.alkidney.org.

Throughout 2017, Hardwick Flooring, LLC will be conducting a fundraiser for the Angel of Hope statue at Westgate Park. For a minimum donation of $35, you will receive a homemade pound cake. Donations will be used to help with the annual candlelight vigil, community outreach and maintenance costs.

Spearheaded by local Dothan resident and owner of Hardwick Flooring, Steve Hardwick, the Angel of Hope statue was erected as a place to provide comfort and healing to those families and a way of remembering each child who has passed. Every Dec. 6 there will be a candlelight vigil to remember the precious children who are no longer with us.

To make your donation, or for more information, contact Hardwick at (334) 673-5632. Hardwick Flooring is located at 1432 Westgate Parkway.

Hardwick Flooring Conducts Fundraiser

Hardwick Flooring, LLC is currently holding a fundraiser for Westgate Park’s Angel of Hope statue.

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 AM8 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS APRIL 2017

BusinessBriefs

In April, Southeast Alabama Community Theatre presents the story of Alabama’s favorite daughter, Helen Keller, in the play The Miracle Worker by William Gibson at The Cultural Arts Center April 25-29.

Immortalized on stage and screen by Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke, this classic tells the story of Annie Sullivan and her blind and deaf student. The Miracle Worker dramatizes the volatile relationship between the lonely teacher and her charge. Trapped in a silent world and unable to communicate, Helen is violent, spoiled and almost sub-

human, and treated by her family as such. Only Annie realizes that there is a mind and

spirit waiting to be rescued from the dark.

SEACT brings the story to life with support from Sunset Memorial Park, and through a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts. The grant provides four American Sign Language interpreters, who will sign the preview performance for invited guests

on Monday, April 24. Details and ticket information are available

at www.seact.com.

SEACT Presents "The Miracle Worker"

Vendor Applications Now Being Accepted

Headland Daylily Festival

Vendor applications are now being accepted for the Daylily Art and Garden Festival being held Saturday, May 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the square in downtown Headland.

The festival will feature a Youth Art Contest and Show, garden-related crafts like birdhouses and wind chimes, art vendors, daylilies and other plants, gardening products and farmers’ market vendors. Also featured will be hands-on children’s art and gardening activities inside the square. Local daylily growers Bush Gardens will also conduct garden tours that day.

Vendor applications are available online at www.headlandal.com.

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!”

Screen on the GreenApril 7 • 7 p.m.Wiregrass Museum of Art and Conference Center. Grab your sweetheart or bring the whole family and join WMA for this public film series with a screening of Sydney Lument’s “The Wiz.” Food trucks will provide movie munchies, food and drinks. Bring a chair and a blanket and snuggle up to watch a great movie at this free event. For more information, call WMA at (334) 794-3871 or visit www.wiregrassmuseum.org.

Sacred Harp SingApril 15 • 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.Landmark Park. The sweet and powerful sounds of Sacred Harp music will fill the air when the park hosts a Sacred Harp Sing in the church. The singers will gather under the spreading branches of a nearby live oak tree to enjoy a traditional dinner on the grounds from noon - 1 p.m. Prior to the sing,

Upcoming Member Eventsthere will be a short introduction for visitors unfamiliar with the tradition, also known as Shape Note or Fasola, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Singers attending this event may simply show their songbook for free admission. For more information, call (334) 794-3452 or visit www.landmarkparkdothan.com.

Easter Sunrise ServiceApril 16 • 6:30 a.m. Landmark Park. The Ministerial Union will host the annual free Easter Sunrise Service at the gazebo. This is an interdenominational service and is open to everyone. An Easter message will be delivered by Rev. Tom Anderson with Brother Walter Wilson leading the music. There are benches available, but attendees are advised to bring lawn chairs to ensure adequate seating. In the event of rain, the service will be held in the Headland Presbyterian Church located adjacent to the gazebo. The park will close immediately after the service and re-open at noon for its regular Sunday hours. For more information, call (334) 794-3452 or visit www.landmarkparkdothan.com.

Have an upcoming event planned?

Send your event information to mmckean@dothan.com

Let’s Golf "Fore" Education

The Wallace Community College-Dothan Foundation will host its annual Golf “Fore” Education Tournament Thursday, April 20, at the Highland Oaks Golf Course. The entry fee is $500 for a team or $125 per player.

The WCC Foundation works in partnership with the college to ensure access to education and success for its students. Over 175 foundation scholarships are awarded each year to deserving students who would not otherwise be able to attend college. Tournament proceeds will benefit WCC students through the WCC Spirit of Community Scholarship Fund.

To register your team, or for more information, contact Tracy Brooks at (334) 556.2626 or email wallacefoundation@wallace.edu.

www.dothan.com 9

BusinessBriefs

The Kiwanis Club of Dothan is putting the final plans in place for the organization’s upcoming Golf Classic being held Monday, April 24 at the Dothan Country Club.

Sponsored by DSI Security Services, Lewis-Smith Supply Corp. and Mercedes Benze of Dothan, lunch will be at 11 a.m. with the Shotgun Start at noon. There will be a cash bar and door prizes. The cost per player is $100 or $400 for a team. Hole sponsorships are also available for $100. Proper golf attire is required.

To register, or for more information, visit www.kiwanisdothan.com/golf or call (334) 673-4327.

Kiwanis Plans Golf Classic

Got Your Ticket Yet?Fifth Annual Green Egg Grill

Fundraiser

It’s that time of year again. Wiregrass United Way 2-1-1 is selling tickets for a lucky person to win a large Green Egg Grill/Smoker package.

The Large Egg is the most popular size and a favorite to handle the cooking needs of most families and gatherings of friends. Accommodates all EGGcessories for baking, roasting, or smoking - and its versatile enough for weekend cookouts or pizza parties, large enough for eight steaks at once and efficient enough for an impromptu meatloaf for two.

Tickets are $10 each or three for $25 and are currently on sale by calling (334) 836-1963. The winning ticket will be drawn on Houston County Gives Day Friday, April 28, at Eagle Eye Outfitters Inc. Winner does not have to be present to win.

Best part is 100 percent of your contribution remains in the Wiregrass. Proceeds go to Wiregrass United Way 2-1-1 which connects people with critical health and human services information and referrals for residents in seven Wiregrass counties 24/7.

For more information about Wiregrass United Way 2-1-1, visit www.wiregrass211.com or call (334) 836-1963.

Berkshire Hathaway Showcase Properties welcomes four new agents to its team: Donita Murdoch, Laurie Peacock, Tonya Pruitt and Krysia Robertson.

Murdoch has worked in the business services industry for over 20 years and understands how important it is to actively listen to the needs and desires of clients to ensure complete satisfaction. She holds a master’s degree in business

with specialization in strategy and international marketing. Her passion is taking clients visions and dreams for their ideal homes and working with them to obtain them. She can be reached at (818) 879-3850.

Peacock lives in Headland, Alabama and takes great pride

in her town and work. Being the sixth of nine children, she acquired the art of negotiation and developed a strong will and determination at an early age. She is also familiar with the home buying and selling process and understands the

long hours and emotions involved. She can be reached at (334) 618-9639.

Prior to becoming a realtor this past February, Pruitt was a communications specialist at Southern Nuclear Co., and has formerly worked as a local television reporter and flight attendant. She has extensive marketing and public relations

experience, and has a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism from Troy University. You can reach Pruitt by calling (334) 796-0080.

Robertson was born and raised in Dothan. She and her family have lived in Pensacola, Florida and Mobile, but kept finding themselves drawn

back home. She joined Berkshire in 2016 and recently obtained her real estate license. Her familiarity with all sides of a real estate transaction, coupled with her love of floor plans and home design, fuels her excitement to be able to showcase a client’s

listing or helping to find that dream home. Give her a call at (334) 796-2601.

Berkshire Hathaway Welcomes New Agents

Krysia Robertson,Realtor

Tonya Pruitt,Realtor

Laurie Peacock,Realtor

Donita Murdoch, Realtor

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.

10 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS APRIL 2017

NETWORKINGWho you know does make a difference! Make important business contacts at Chamber seminars, Spotlight on Business Trade Show, quarterly membership meetings, The Networking Exchange and

our members-only LEADS groups.

SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENTRepresentatives from the Small Business Development Center of Troy University are available the second Tuesday of each month

for free and confidential small business counseling sessions at the Chamber. You must make appointments through the Chamber.

BENEFITS AND DISCOUNTSSave money on supplies, travel, hotels, landscaping, appliances

and more through the Chamber’s Member-To-Member Discount Program.

INFORMATIONEverything you need to know about the Dothan area -

population, wages, cost of living, taxes, labor force, economic development, recreation, business trends, business listings and much more can be found at the Chamber and on our website

www.dothan.com

LEARNING OPPORTUNITIESThroughout the year the Chamber hosts seminars of interest

to small business owners, entrepreneurs and nonprofit organizations. The informative programs are conducted for a

nominal fee and include a meal.

EDUCATIONAL PARTNERSHIPThrough a partnership with Troy University, Chamber members and their full-time employees are eligible to receive a 10 percent scholarship on tuition costs (classroom and online), as well as to Troy’s Corporate Achiever Scholarship which provides full-time

employees pursing an undergraduate degree up to four free classes, and those pursuing a graduate degree, up to three free classes.

REFERRALSOn a daily basis, the Chamber receives dozens of requests for recommendations on goods and services to be purchased in

the Dothan-Houston County area. We refer these newcomers, tourists, area residents and businesses to Chamber members only.

MAILING LABELSMembership mailing labels are available in several different

formats for a nominal fee.

BUSINESS AND TECHNOLOGY EXPOAttend the Chamber’s annual Spotlight on Business Trade Show, Dothan’s only business-to-business trade show. Booth space is

available only to members of the Chamber.

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIESNeed advertising that is targeted, effective and affordable? The

Chamber Connections, Membership Directory and Business Guide, Dothan’s Official Welcome Guide and Chamber website offer

powerful advertising choices to reach businesses and consumers.

GOVERNMENT ADVOCACYThe Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce serves as an advocate on issues important to local business by monitoring local, state

and federal legislation.

CREDIBILITYDemonstrate your commitment to the community by becoming

a part of the vision and strategies of the largest, strongest and most active business organization in the Dothan area - the

Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce.

COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT PROJECTSBuilding existing business, recruiting new jobs and marketing

the Wiregrass area are three ways the Chamber works to strengthen our economy. With over 950+ members, the

Chamber is committed to the sustained growth and prosperity of the region.

WEBSITETake advantage of the “Members Only” link on the Chamber’s

website where members can link their website to the Chamber’s, learn about member-to-member discounts, access small business

development links, area demographics and more.

PUBLICITYPublicity and heightened name recognition through print,

internet and event exposure.

CORE BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP INCLUDE:

The Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce invites area businesses to join and receive valuable benefits for their business.

www.dothan.com 11

GrowDothan

CAE USA recently held the official inauguration ceremony of its new Dothan Training Center located at the Dothan Regional Airport. A world-class facility, the training center will be used to provide the United States Army with fixed-wing training, including classroom, simulator and live-flying instruction. The new facility will also be used to provide the U.S. Air Force and other customers with flight training.

The Dothan Training Center stands a little more than 20 miles from Fort Rucker and the U.S. Army Center of Excellence, the headquarters of Army Aviation and primary location for Army helicopter flight training for more than five decades.

CAE announced back in November 2016 at the world’s largest military simulation and training event, the Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference, that it had completed construction at the facility and received the occupancy certificate. Over the next two months, CAE and subcontractor personnel transitioned from interim facilities to the Dothan Training Center.

The Dothan Training Center features state-of-the-art classroom; training system integrated learning environment; and other modern facilities, including student and instructor lounges, fitness center and cafeteria. In addition to the Grob G120TP FTD, the facility also contains a suite of C-12 King Air training devices. The first two C-12

training devices that arrived were the CAE 7000XR Series C-12 King Air full-flight simulators.

The Army Fixed-Wing Flight Training program is responsible for providing all the training required for experienced Army rotary-wing aviators transitioning to fly the Army’s fleet of more than 350 fixed-wing aircraft. In addition, the Army Fixed-Wing Training program serves as the formal training unit for Army C-12/RC-12 King Air recurrent training, as well as providing annual training to U.S. Air Force C-12 King Air pilots. In total, more than 600 U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force pilots are expected to train annually at CAE’s new Dothan Training Center.

CAE is a global leader in training for the civil aviation, defense and security, and health care markets. Backed by a 70-year record of industry firsts, CAE continues to help define global training standards with it innovative virtual-to-live training solutions to make flying safer, maintain defense force readiness and enhance patient safety.

CAE has the broadest global presence in the industry, with 8,000 employees, 160 sites and training locations in over 35 countries. Each year, the company trains more than 120,000 civil and defense crewmembers and thousands of health care professionals worldwide.

For more information, visit www.cae.com.

CAE Dothan Training Center Holds Grand Opening

YOURCHAMBER

Attention Members!If you know of a business interested

in benefiting from joining the Chamber, please contact Hayden Camp at (334) 792-5138 or hcamp@dothan.com.

12 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS APRIL 2017

WorkforceDevelopment

Education has a much greater economic impact on the local economy than most people probably realize. In addition to the quality of our educational institutions being important for economic, workforce and community

development, they have a very significant direct economic impact through salaries and wages paid.

According to data provided by the Bureau of Economic Analysis, in Houston County the wages of those in the education sector exceeds the annual wages of several other occupational clusters, these include: construction; Information; finance and insurance; real estate and rental leasing; professional, scientific and technical services; management of companies and enterprises; administrative, support, waste management and remediation services; arts entertainment and recreation; and accommodation and food service.

In 2015, the BEA reported that the $142,255,000 paid in education salary and wages within Houston County were 7.18 percent of the sum of all salaries wages paid

that year, while accounting for 8.5 percent of all employment within the county. Looked at in this light, education should be seen for what it is, a major sector of our community that contributes significantly to our economy, our culture and our economic growth and output.

Meanwhile, many companies in our other sectors express concern that our high school graduates do not have the skills needed by their businesses, at the proficiency they desire. If every high school student that graduated from public schools in Houston County in 2015 went directly into the workforce upon graduation they would make up 2.2 percent of the workforce. If you assume that half went to post-secondary education, we are down to 1.1 percent of the workforce.

We do not know how many recent graduates go directly into work and how many go on to further education, nor do we know how many move out of the area. What we do know is that the workforce has not been growing at a rate that might be expected if 50 percent of public school graduates remained in the county and went to work, but we would also have to consider the number of people retiring, which we do not know, in order to come up with a sensible number.

One more point to consider is that since 2004, within the four-county area Dale,

Geneva, Henry and Houston counties, natural growth has contributed 21 percent towards our population growth. In Houston County it is 28 percent natural growth, the rest being in- migration. That means that regionally, almost 80 percent of our growth is from people moving into the area that did not go to school here. Additionally, in 2014 we had 16,021 people commuting into Dothan daily and 7,717 coming into Houston County from other counties to work.

All this being said, our schools serve our resident population and there are numerous local and regional efforts to improve both education and workforce skills, but we live in a dynamic and mobile society of free wills and experience both inflow and outflow of residents and workers and cannot expect overnight results.

Education As Major Sector Of Economy And Factors Affecting The Workforce

Steve Turkoski, Project Manager

May 182017

Highland OaksTo Reserve or Sponsor (334) 836-4518bekij@southernbone.comSOU

THER

N BONE & JOINT SPEC

IALISTS

4 Man ScrambleHole-In One, Raffle,

& Other Special Contests

Troy University’s Sorrell College of Business and the Center for Entrepreneurship and Economic Innovation announces the First Annual Youth Business Summit will be held at the Dothan Campus Thursday, May 4, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. All local area high school business teachers and FBLA sponsors are encouraged to participate by bringing all students interested in business to the campus for a day filled with workshops and competitions.

The purpose of the summit is to enlighten high school students about careers in business through engagement in workshops related to entrepreneurship, accounting and finance, leadership, human resources and more, as well as to network with local business professionals to discuss best practices to achieving career goals. Students will have the opportunity to apply hands-on knowledge of business concepts in two distinct competitions – one related to investing strategies, and the second examining the fundamental elements of starting a business through the creation of a business plan.

For more information, contact Dr. Carmen Lewis at (334) 983.6556, ext. 1263 or Tara Ryals at (334) 983.6556, ext. 1205.

First Annual Youth Business Summit To Be

Held In May

www.dothan.com 13

SmallBusinessDevelopment

What is Shop Alabama? We all spend money on clothes, food and leisure. The Shop Alabama campaign, launched in 2016 by the Alabama Retail Association, encourages Alabamians to keep those dollars in state by promoting local retailers and the contributions they make to their communities. The message is simple – when you Shop Alabama, you’re not only supporting your friends and neighbors who own small businesses, you’re also strengthening your local economy and investing in the vibrancy of your city.

Why is Shop Alabama important? Online sales continue to grow faster than instore brick and mortar sales. While ordering everything you need online and having it arrive at your doorstep sounds great, imagine the long-term impact that will have on Alabama and its retail community. Not only could we lose the shops, restaurants and businesses that make our cities special and unique, we also could lessen the local tax dollars collected, which support vital services and infrastructure. Alabama’s retailers are the backbone of our communities; they reinvest their time and money back into other local businesses and causes. Shop Alabama builds support for this important sector of our economy.

How can I get involved in Shop Alabama? Anyone can join our movement and help us spread the message. The easiest way is to use our hashtag #ShopAlabama. Retailers can share photos of their products using the hashtag. Customers can snap a photo while shopping and share it on social media, using the hashtag. Use the opportunity to explain why shopping local matters to you. Maybe your child’s Little League team is sponsored by the store you’re in, or maybe

your friend owns the store. Whatever the reason, we want Alabamians to feel proud to shop local. When their friends do, they will too!

How can my store promote Shop Alabama? Does your store have a marquee or window where you post news or specials? Use that space

to share the Shop Alabama message. Al’s Flowers in Montgomery, for example, used his marquee to explain to passers-by how the newly paved road out front was funded. “The Internet Did Not Pave Carter Hill Road. Shop Local,” it read. In addition, Alabama Retail has Shop Alabama signs we’d love to give you! These 12X18 inch signs are perfect to display in your window or at the register. We encourage you to use the signs for pictures. Have employees or customers pose with the signs and post to social media using the #ShopAlabama hashtag.

What’s next for Shop Alabama? The Shop Alabama campaign has just begun. It’s our hope that it becomes a year-round call-to-action and point of pride. You’ll see us promote it heavily during the busiest shopping times of the year, but we’ll also use this platform to feature the good work Alabama retailers do in their communities. We want people to understand the long-term value of supporting their local retailers. We all benefit when you

Shop Alabama.

Join the movement at www.shopalabama.org. Source: Reprinted by permission Alabama Retail Association. Originally published February 2017, “Alabama Retailer,” Issue 1, Vol 17, www.alabamaretail.org.

#ShopAlabama Is A Movement

Q&AWith Melissa Warnke,

ARA Communications And Engagement Manager

When you Shop Alabama, you’re not only supporting your friends and neighbors

who own small businesses, you’re also strengthening

your local economy and investing in the vibrancy of your city.

HIGHLIGHT

Save The Date!Small Business Seminar

The year 2016 was an extremely active year for new rules, regulations and court decisions. Regulatory agencies such as the National Labor Relations Board, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs all were engaged in issuing new rules, and/or formulating new interpretations of existing rules that have direct implications for employers and workplace policies. Now that a new Presidential administration is ushered in, much speculation exists regarding whether these new mandates will remain in place, be modified or eliminated altogether.

Once thing is certain: employers MUST be aware of these recent changes and should already have made adjustments to their policies and practices to comply with the new regulations.

Save the date and join the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce Thursday, April 27, at 11:30 a.m. for a seminar titled “The Regulatory Landscape For Employers: What Changes, If Any, Will The Trump Administration Make?” where you will learn what the new rules say, what they require and/or prohibit, and how to comply with the vast amount of new rules that are now in effect.

We will discuss new rules and regulations related to:

• OSHA drug testing policies and anti-retaliation prohibitions;• Fair Labor Standards Act – where are we regarding the new exempt salary

minimum;• NLRB prohibitions on various non-union workplace policies;• FMLA and ADA – how do they overlap; and• ACA – repeal and replace? What can we expect?

Presented by Dan Sinas, vice president for the PR Companies, who has conducted numerous seminars for the DACC, as well as industry groups, trade associations, private employers and other chambers throughout Alabama and Florida. He is also the published author of the books, Job Killers: How Government Regulations Increase Unemployment and The Solution To Get Americans Back To Work Now.

You don’t want to miss this very informative seminar. The cost is $10 per person, which includes a box lunch. Pre-registration is required by noon Tuesday, April 25. To reserve your seat, contact Susan Tatom at (334) 792-5138.

The Regulatory Landscape For Employers:What Changes, If Any, Will The Trump Administration Make?

Dothan Area Chamber of CommerceApril 27 • 11:30 a.m.

14 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS APRIL 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.

Application

Deadline: June 12, 2017

The Dothan Area Chamber Foundation is now accepting applications for Leadership Dothan Class 36. The nine-month program focuses on community resources, education, quality of life, political arenas, health and human services and public safety. Local professional conduct lectures, participate and panel discussions, simulations and tours to educate program participants about our community.

The program year begins in September and concludes in May. The two-day Opening Retreat will be held Sept. 20 and 21, 2017, and attendance is mandatory. Participants meet one day per month, usually the third Thursday, for nine hours starting in October.

Participation in Leadership Dothan is open to any person living or working in Houston County. The Steering Committee reviews applications solicited from all walks of community life to select a class of interested, motivated and concerned individuals who have a desire to offer their time and talents to improving their community. One of the foundation’s goals is to select emerging leaders and systematically inform, challenge and educate participants about our community opportunities and needs.

The application is also available on the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce website www.dothan.com and the deadline is Monday, June 12, 2017. A maximum of 40 people will have the opportunity to participate in Leadership Dothan each year. Tuition is $800 for each participant. The tuition covers the Opening Retreat, meals, program materials and transportation.

For additional information contact Linda Kelley at (334) 792-5138 or lkelley@dothan.com.

Name:

Business/Organization:

Mailing Address:

E-mail Address:

Phone Number:

Either mail or fax this form to:

Dothan Area Chamber of CommerceAttn: Linda Kelley

P.O. Box 638, Dothan, AL 36302 Fax: (334) 794-4796lkelley@dothan.com

Nominations are due by June 12, 2017. Thank you for your application!

www.dothan.com 15

Commercial & Residential

1967 2017

334.340.1111Air Care Systems, Inc.

Editor's Note: Sources for this information vary; call the Chamber for details. Data as of 3/13/17. Visit www.dothan.com for the most current information.

EconomicIndicatorsLabor Force for the Dothan MSA for January:

61,384 in 2016; 62,702 in 201758,514 in 2015; 58,497 in 2016 Employed

Unemployment for the Dothan MSA for January:6.2% in 2016; 6.7% in 2017

Residential Building Permits for the City of Dothan for January:17 issued ($5.17 million) in 2016; 18 issued ($6.27 million) in 2017

Home Sales in Dothan for January:86 sold in 2016; 100 sold in 2017

Enplanements for Dothan Regional Airport for January:3,725 in 2016; 3,513 in 2017

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

$1,792,007 in 2016; $1,972,568 in 2017 (County)$6,506,201 in 2016; $6,940,195 in 2017 (City)

A Publication of theDothan Area Chamber of CommerceApril 2017Vol. 44, No. 7 (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