ConnectionsCONNECTIONSDothan Area Chamber of Commerce January 2018

PREPARING STUDENTSFor The WorkforcePAGE 6

AMEA PartnersWith DothanPAGE 12

Multiple Jobs And Temporary HelpPAGE 13

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www.dothan.com(334) 792-5138

INSIDEWhat’s

January 2018

2 Events Calendar

3 Ribbon Cuttings

6-7 Cover Story

8-11 Business Briefs

12 Grow Dothan

13 Workforce Development

14 Leadership Development

Also In This Issue 9 Woodall Named As Finalist

10 Dothan Real Estate Team Welcomes New Agent

11 Dunn Joins State Farm Team

12 Make Your Voice Heard In Montgomery!

January

Your cover photo features Dr. Linda Young, Wallace Community College president, and Jake Jones and Stan Jones, owners of Dothan Warehouse.

New Year’s Day – Chamber ClosedLEADS Group 2 Meeting – 8 a.m.Location: 3124 W. Main St., Suite 3 (Studio Grace Training Center)Ribbon Cutting: Metabolic Research Center – 10:30 a.m.Location: 256 Honeysuckle Road, Suite 19 Ribbon Cutting: Achieve Medical Weight Loss – 10:30 a.m.Location: 3201 Montgomery Highway, Suite 4 Eggs & Issues General Membership Breakfast – 7:30 a.m.Location: 795 Ross Clark Circle (Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center Inc.’s Sterling Event Services Rotary Hall)*See page 8 for more information. Reservations required: (334) 792-5138 Ribbon Cutting: Family First Funeral Care – 10:30 a.m.Location: 965 Woodland Drive Troy University Small Business Counseling – 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)*Reservations required: (334) 792-5138 Youth Leadership Dothan-Houston County Health Care Day – 7:45 a.m.Location: 4370 W. Main St. (Flowers Hospital)LEADS Group 1 Meeting – 8 a.m.Location: 3124 W. Main St., Suite 3 (Studio Grace Training Center)Ribbon Cutting: Wiregrass Lice Relief – 10:30 a.m.Location: 2141 Denton Road, Suite 1 Ribbon Cutting: Dothan Montessori School – 10:30 a.m.Location: 205 Holly Lane Ribbon Cutting: Eco Heating & Cooling – 10:30 a.m.Location: 966 South Park Ave. LEADS Group 2 Meeting – 8 a.m.Location: 3124 W. Main St., Suite 3 (Studio Grace Training Center)Board of Directors’ Meeting – 8:15 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)Ribbon Cutting: Bellas – 10:30 a.m.Location: 111 W. Troy St.Leadership Dothan Courts, Local and State Government Day – 7:45 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd., (Chamber)Ribbon Cutting: Orangetheory Fitness Dothan – 10:30 a.m.Location: 100 Apple Ave., Suite 3 Ribbon Cutting: Smoothie King West – 10:30 a.m.Location: 103 Apple Ave., Suite 3 LEADS Group 1 Meeting – 8 a.m.Location: 3124 W. Main St., Suite 3 (Studio Grace Training Center)Ribbon Cutting: The College Readiness Workshop – 10:30 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd (Chamber) Ribbon Cutting: Dothan Eye Care Relocation – 10:30 a.m.Location: 1450 Ross Clark Circle, Suite 100 Ribbon Cutting: CapSouth Partners Inc. Remodel – 10:30 a.m.Location: 2216 W. Main St. LEADS Group 2 Meeting – 8 a.m.Location: 3124 W. Main St., Suite 3 (Studio Grace Training Center)Ribbon Cutting: Dove Christian Supply Inc. – 10:30 a.m.Location: 3112B Ross Clark Circle

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Your Cover Photo

ConnectionsCONNECTIONSDothan Area Chamber of Commerce January 2018

PREPARING STUDENTSFor The WorkforcePAGE 6

AMEA PartnersWith DothanPAGE 12

Multiple Jobs And Temporary HelpPAGE 13

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2 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS JANUARY 2018

Flowers Medical Group PrimeCare

4126 W. Main St.Dothan, AL 36305

Jenny Herring(334) 793-2120

www.flowersmedicalgroup.comPHYSICIANS & SURGEONS –

MD – WALK IN CLINIC/MINOR SURGERY

Beef, Pork & More, LLC2936 Ross Clark Circle

Dothan, AL 36301Chris Register

(334) 790-0037www.facebook.com/

beefporkandmoreBUTCHER SHOP

Townsend Building Supply

868 Murray RoadDothan, AL 36303Michael Townsend

(334) 792-5111www.townsendbuilding

supply.comWINDOW & DOOR

SALES; BUILDING MATERIALS

AMP Realty, LLC2363 S. Brannon Stand Road

Dothan, AL 36305Kaylie Pierce

(334) 370-0807www.alwaysmoving

property.comREAL ESTATE –

RESIDENTIAL AND/OR COMMERCIAL

Mr. Mattress105 Apple Ave., Suite 1

Dothan, AL 36303Jeffery Douglas

(334) 446-4595www.mrmattressoutletstore.com

MATTRESS RETAILER

CINTAS4454 Montgomery Highway

Dothan, AL 36303Chris Crabbe

(334) 673-4990www.cintas.com

UNIFORMS

Wiregrass Habitat for Humanity Inc.

2086 Montgomery HighwayDothan, AL 36303

Amy Schutz(334) 792-8453

www.wiregrasshabitat.orgNONPROFIT

ORGANIZATIONS

Barbertitos101 Apple Ave., Suite 6

Dothan, AL 36303Katie Eubanks

(334) 237-0600 www.barberitos.com

RESTAURANTS

Waxing the City100 Apple Ave., Suite 2

Dothan, AL 36303Melinda Sykes

(334) 350-3349www.waxingthecity.com

HAIR REMOVAL / FULL BODY WAXING

RELOCATIONSDothan Mattress

Outlet, LLC1369 Headland Ave., Suite 6

Dothan, AL 36303Walt Loftin

(334) 726-3864www.facebook.com/

DothanMattressOutletMATTRESS RETAILER

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.

www.dothan.com 3

Clip and add these to your Membership Directory.NewMembers

Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2018Dothan Civic Center 3-7 p.m.

ALL STARS

BU

SINESS

27TH ANNUAL TRADE

SHOW

The Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce

Spotlight on Business

DON’T MISS IT!

Sponsored By

RenewingMembers

The College Readiness WorkshopTenita Strand102 Zimmer RoadDaleville, AL 36322PH: (334) 498-0067www.collegereadinessworkshop.orgNONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

Cornerstone Insurance Group Inc.Eric Hataway120 Court Square (Blakely, Ga.)P.O. Box 5840Dothan, AL 36302PH: (912) 539-4734FAX: (229) 723-6799www.cornerins.comINSURANCE

Dennis Lee, LLCSunny Spires131 N. Foster St.Dothan, AL 36303PH: (334) 797-3499www.dennisleefurniture.comFURNITURE

The Foot SpecialistBrian Melley, DPM1550 E. Main St.Dothan, AL 36301PH: (334) 671-1441FAX: (334) 671-1688www.dothanfootdoctor.comPHYSICIANS & SURGEONS - DPM - PODIATRISTS (FOOT)

J & H Tree ServiceJosh Keagy7867 County Road 1Daleville, AL 36322PH: (334) 435-4845www.jhtreeservice.comTREE SERVICE

Midas of DothanJohn Calhoun3125 Ross Clark CircleDothan, AL 36303PH: (334) 446-0048www.midas.comAUTOMOTIVE REPAIR

Orangetheory Fitness DothanKatie Newton100 Apple Ave., Suite 3Dothan, AL 36303PH: (334) 232-8993dothan.orangetheoryfitness.comHEALTH & FITNESS CLUBS

Wiregrass Lice ReliefLisa Pirtle2141 Denton Road, Suite 1Dothan, AL 36303PH: (334) 400-5339www.wiregrasslicerelief.comLICE EDUCATION & TREATMENT

80 Or More YearsSlingluff United Insurance

40-49 YearsGene McGriff State Farm Insurance

30-39 YearsDothan Career CenterJ M Electric Supply Co.Jim Whaley’s Tires Inc.John J. Flowers, Jr., DMD, PCSoutheastern Performance Apparel

25-29 YearsBasketcase Café Kelly Services Inc.Sam’s Club #8192

20-24 YearsDothan Education FoundationScreenTechSummit InvestmentsWestside Terrace & Rehab FirstWiregrass Federal Credit Union

15-19 YearsBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Showcase PropertiesCircle City Glass Co. Inc.Covenant CareDothan OBGYN Inc.Home Mortgage of America Inc.Oakley, Wright & Hart, PCOriental ImportsPerformance Carpet Cleaning & RestorationSoutheast Alabama Dance Co.

10-14 YearsBlue Plate (West)Crowder OrthodonticsHome Instead Senior CareIn Sight Solutions, LLCWinco, LLC dba Bojangles’ #825

5-9 YearsBuffalo Wild WingsCOPACO - DothanDays Inn

Dothan KiaHighland Hills ApartmentsHouston County Rescue SquadI.D. Associates Inc.The Landing & Five Star CateringMagnolia Preserve, LLCPublix Super Market #1369ReBathVerizon Wireless Advantage Wiregrass BEST Inc.

1-4 YearsAlabama Eye Physicians & SurgeonsADS SecurityBFC ManagementDickey’s Barbecue PitDothan Mattress Outlet, LLCFairway Outdoor AdvertisingFlorida Certified Sign ErectorsFlowers Medical Group Family Medicine DothanFlowers Medical Group Internal Medicine & PediatricsFridaysGlasstream Powerboats, LLCH2O Sports and OutdoorsHealthcare Resource Center, LLCHolland MotorsportsIngram Land & Development, LLCInterLinc Mortgage Services, LLCKiddie Care Learning CenterKnockerball DothanLan Darty Real Estate & DevelopmentThe Lilly CompanyMH Yoga Health StudioNaomi & OliveNelson’s Electronic SystemsRavenwood Sporting ClaysRetif Oil & FuelSoutheast Alabama Community Action PartnershipVeterans Cleaning SolutionsWint Smith State Farm InsuranceWiregrass Liquidation OutletWiregrass Radio

4 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS JANUARY 2018

The Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that it will be visiting scenic Ireland, Oct. 15, 2018, and is inviting chamber members, family and friends of chamber members to join them on this once in a lifetime experience.

Rich in history, scenic Ireland is the destination for this exciting trip. Enjoy an eight-day journey and go where Ireland takes you. Visit stunning destinations such as Limerick, the Cliffs of Moher and enjoy the beautiful Five Star Savoy hotel in Limerick. On this amazing trip you will also encounter breathtaking panoramic views of the Dingle Peninsula, and see historic locations including the “Rock of Cashel,” and Kilkenny Castle.

This journey is packed with unforgettable destinations, but also gives you time to explore Ireland on your own as well. Enjoy local shops and restaurants or stroll through woodland settings. You may choose

to venture out and visit the Blarney Castle where you must take the opportunity to kiss the Blarney Stone for good luck!

“This is truly an amazing opportunity to participate in an international journey to scenic Ireland, where program participants can experience the country’s culture, learn about the business climate and make new friends,” said Dean Mitchell, DACC executive director.

Space is limited, so act fast. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to visit scenic Ireland, exchange ideas with local business representatives, make new friends, and build new memories.

For more information about this amazing trip contact the DACC’s Director of Membership, Hayden Camp, at (334) 792-5138 or hcamp@dothan.com.

You’re Invited! To Join The DACC In Scenic Ireland

2 nights - $499DUBLIN POST-TOUR

Extend your stay with 2 extra nights in Dublin, Ireland’s

majestic capital, including a visit to Trinity College home of the Book of Kells, St. Patrick’s Cathedral or O’Connell Street.

I R E L A N DD I S CO V E R & E X P L O R E

8-DAY JOURNEYHIGHLIGHTS:• Round trip scheduled airfare• Round trip transfers between

airports and hotels• Personal airport VIP greeting and

check-in service• Pre-departure orientation and travel

documents• 6 nights at a first class Limerick hotel• 1 dinner at Bunratty Castle

(Medieval Banquet)• Breakfast provided each morning• Discovery Program Guide• Cliffs of Moher• Rock of Cashel• Kilkenny Castle• Bunratty Folk Park• Excursion to Dingle Peninsula• Excursion to Galway

DAY BY DAYDAY 1: DEPARTURE• Board your transatlantic flight

DAY 2: IRELAND• Arrive in Ireland and transfer to the

Absolute Hotel for 6 nights• Remainder of day at your leisure

DAY 3: CLIFFS OF MOHER - GALWAY• Visit the Cliffs of Moher• Panoramic tour of Galway• Free time to explore shops, cafe and

pubs• Return to Limerick

DAY 4: LIMERICK • Today you can explore on your own

DAY 5: DINGLE EXCURSION• Panoramic views heading towards

Blasket Island Center• Visit Dingle• Return to Limerick

DAY 6: CASHEL - KILKENNY - BUNRATTY• Explore the Rock of Cashel• Visit Kilkenny Castle• Enjoy medieval-style dinner and

entertainment at Bunratty Castle• Return to Limerick

DAY 7: LIMERICK• Today is at leisure• Blarney optional tour

DAY 8: BREAKFAST AT YOUR HOTEL• Transfer to airport for flight home

(Order of tours subject to change)

WITH THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ASSOCIATION OF ALABAMAAND THE DOTHAN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Cliffs of Moher

BOOKSAVE&

$3,199 PER PERSON$2,999 PER PERSON if deposited by December 15th!*

Departing October 15, 2018For more information and a full brochure, please contact

Hayden Camp at (334) 792-5138

D I S CO V E R & E X P L O R E

WITH THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ASSOCIATION OF ALABAMAAND THE DOTHAN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

DEPARTINGOctober 15, 2018For more information, please contactHayden Camp at (334) 792-5138

BOOKSAVE&

HIGHLIGHTS:• Round trip scheduled airfare• Round trip transfers

between airports and hotels• Personal airport VIP greeting and

check-in service• Pre-departure orientation and

travel documents• 6 nights at the first class

Absolute Hotel • 1 dinner at Bunratty Castle

(Medieval Banquet)• Breakfast provided each morning• Discovery Program Guide• Cliffs of Moher• Rock of Cashel• Kilkenny Castle• Bunratty Folk Park• Excursion to Dingle Peninsula• Excursion to Galway

I R E L A N D

$3,199 PER PERSON$2,999 PER PERSON if deposited by December 15th!*

www.dothan.com 5

Preparing Students For The Workforce

New Logistics ProgramsOver the last few months, Wallace Community College-Dothan has

worked to develop Certified Logistics Associate and Certificate Logistics Technician programs that will be a boost to local employers looking for skilled labor. The programs are part of the adoption of The Manufacturing Skills Standard Council, an industry-lead assessment and certification system, by the Alabama Community College System. MSSC will benefit career technical students, employers and current employees alike.

Wallace-Dothan received a $23,000 grant to implement the programs. The testing center was set up during the summer, with classes and assessments beginning Jan. 8, 2018. Alabama is the first state to offer MSSC credentials statewide. The programs teach the core competencies of materials handling from entry-level through front-line supervisor. Skills training benefits employers by increasing productivity and competitiveness.

“Economic development and workforce development go hand-in-hand,” explained Beau Benton, Larry Blumberg and Associates (LBA Hospitality) and Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce chairman. “One cannot be successful without the other, and those of use involved in business operations understand this issue clearly on a daily basis.”

Job skills training is becoming more crucial as retirements create a gap in eligible workers. Approximately 60 percent of skilled jobs go unfilled due to skilled labor shortages. “Companies all over our region are searching for skilled, qualified employees,” said Ryan Richards, Southeast AlabamaWorks! director of workforce development. “The CLA and CLT programs offered by Wallace Community College, in partnership with MSSC, will allow any individual who earns the certificates to set themselves apart in the application process and make themselves more marketable to find the right career opportunity.”

In the CLA program, students will learn work functions in supply chain logistics life cycle, environment, material handling equipment, safety principles, safe material handling, quality control, teamwork and workplace behavior to solve problems, and using computers. “CLA certification is a four-week program that allows individuals to receive Warehousing and Distribution Logistics training. The course will include soft skills training as well as specific training for the CLA certification,” said Joe Johnson, WCCD workforce development director.

CLT, which requires the completion of CLA, is a mid-level course for those students searching for additional logistics skills and higher-wage jobs. The CLT course builds on the CLA certification and addresses the core technical competencies of higher skilled, frontline material handling works in all supply chain facilities.

MSSC assessments for courses are given online to measure basic computer, problem-solving and analytical skills.

The completion of the CLA certification will guarantee an interview with multiple businesses in the area. Wal-Mart Distribution Center, Jeffers Pet Supply, Dothan Warehouse, Southeastern Performance Apparel, Wholesale Wood Products and Arista Aviation have already agreed to interview students who complete the program.

The cost for the CLA, which begins Jan. 8 for four weeks, is $225 (after $250 waiver is applied). CLT will run two weeks beginning Feb. 12 and costs $245.

MSSC certification is also a great opportunity for Adult Education students to earn stackable industry recognized credentials. “The program allows students to document their knowledge and also provides employers with individuals who already have the core competencies needed to be valuable employees,” said Barbara Steger, WCCD director of adult education. The Career Pathway program lets adult education students finish their general education credential while at the same time preparing to enter the workforce with the necessary skillset. The MSSC Certification is free for students in the Career Pathways program.

MSSC is the leading certifying body for the nation’s front-line manufacturing and supply chain logistics workers. These certification programs allow students and workers to document their knowledge.

For additional information about the courses, call (334) 556-2203. More information about MSSC can be found at www.msscusa.org.

Dr. Linda Young, Wallace Community College Dothan president, Dothan Warehouse owners Jake Jones and Stan Jones, take a moment for pictures following a press conference announcing Wallace-Dothan’s new logistics programs.

CoverStory

6 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS JANUARY 2018

Dr. Linda Young, Wallace Community College president, provides an overview of the college’s MSSC Certified Logistics Associate and Technician programs.

DACC Chairman Beau Benton, Larry Blumberg and Associates (LBA Hospitality) gives opening remarks.

Jake Jones and Stan Jones, Dothan Warehouse, explain how Wallace-Dothan’s new logistics programs is going to help their company meet its employment needs.

Dothan Mayor Mark Saliba (top) and Houston County Commission Chairman Mark Culver commend all the officials involved in addressing the area’s workforce development challenges.

Alabama Representatives Donnie Chesteen (87th District), Paul Lee (86th ‘District) and Steve Clouse (93rd District) recognize Wallace Community College President Dr. Linda Young and her team for working to address the workforce development needs of the area.

Ryan Richards, Southeast AlabamaWorks! Director of workforce development, gives an overview of the challenges businesses face in finding individuals to meet their employment needs.

www.dothan.com 7

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in Dothan will be hosting quarterly meetings beginning January 2018 working to promote financial education in the community. Better Money Habits is a free online learning program that delivers easy-to-understand financial information on a wide range of personal finance topics including fundamentals of saving, debt management, credit, and other basic financial concepts.

Meetings will be held on a quarterly basis beginning Jan. 2, and will be held at the downtown and Westgate locations of the Dothan Houston County Library System.

For more information, visit the Better Money Habits website at www.bettermoneyhabits.com or call Keith Brantley at the Dothan Houston County Library System at (334) 793-9767.

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Presents Better Money Habits Program

BusinessBriefsAmbassadors&Diplomats

Congratulations to the Ambassador and Diplomat Team of the Month “The Super Six” for claiming this month’s title. Team members are (seated) Betsey Marshall, TownPlace Suites; Lisa Baity, Alabama Kidney Foundation; (standing) Parrish Smith, Friend Bank; Eric Easley, FULLEFUELED; and Darryl Ellis, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation. Team member not pictured is Rona Miller, Holloway Credit Solutions, LLC

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.

Team Of The Month

The Super Six

Star Of The Month

Lisa BaityAlabama Kidney Foundation

Come join the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce as we welcome and bring our Wiregrass lawmakers together with business and community leaders to discuss the issues that will shape our state’s future! The event will also feature a preview of the 2018 legislative session by key state leaders and a Q&A session.

Individual Tickets $15Corporate Tables $150

Sponsorships Available $350For more information or to purchase tickets contact

Hayden Camp at (334) 792-5138 or hcamp@dothan.com.

8 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS JANUARY 2018

BusinessBriefs

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.

Michael J. Ramsey, MD, FAAP, pediatrician and shareholder at Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network was presented with the 2017 American Academy of Pediatrics 2017 Council on Community Pediatrics Local Hero Award recently at the 2017 AAP National Conference and Exhibition in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Ramsey is the outgoing immediate past president of the Alabama Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

The award recognizes pediatricians who epitomize the “community pediatrician,” leading community action and advocacy for children in local communities, and who do several of the following: promote child health within all environments such as the community, school, and family; collaborate with community partners to address population-based child health issues and promote health equity; advocate for children who lack access to healthcare and other resources; and, implement public health approaches to advance the health of all children in the community.

Nominations are open to the almost 67,000 pediatricians in the AAP and physicians must be nominated by their peers, with letters of support written by colleagues and patients.

“This is so well deserved,” said Cathy Wood, MD, FAAP, Alabama Chapter president. “Michael worked tirelessly for the last several years on Medicaid funding advocacy, going over and above in reaching outside of his practice to help kids.”

Caring for the medical needs of children in the Wiregrass region has been the mission of Dothan Pediatric Clinic since being founded in 1953 by Dr. William Lies, III.

According to Phyllis Helms, administrator of Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network, Dr. Ramsey has led local efforts to save healthcare for all of Alabama’s children since 2012.

For more information, contact Debbie Yurevich, marketing director, at (334) 793-1881, ext. 2272 or debbie.yurevfgish@dothanpediatricclinic.com,

Ramsey Receives Community Pediatrician Award

The Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama and the Business Council of Alabama announced recently the finalists for the “Alabama Small Business of the Year” awards. One of Dothan’s very own was named a finalist in the 51-100 employee category Bob Woodall, owner of Bob Woodall Air Care Systems Inc.

This year saw 45 small businesses named as finalists for the awards. All of the award finalists were recognized and honored at the CCAA/BCA Partnership Annual Meeting/Luncheon at The Harbert Center in Birmingham.

In 2003, the grassroots efforts of CCAA were strengthened when The Partnership was formed between the BCA and the CCAA. The BCA/CCAA Partnership is the first of its kind in the United States and has become a model for other states. Together, the two groups represent the interests and concerns of over 1 million working Alabamians.

CCAA-BCA Partnership Names Woodall As

Alabama Small Business Person Of The Year Finalist

Congratulations to Bob Woodall (third from right), owner of Bob Woodall Air Care Systems Inc., on being named as a finalist for the Alabama Small Business of the Year.

Southeast Alabama Dance Company will hold its biannual Wine Dine Auction Saturday, Jan. 20, at 2 p.m. at The Grande on Foster.

A great afternoon of wine and food tasting is planned along with a silent auction at 2:30 p.m. and a live auction at 5 p.m. SEADAC looks forward to sharing some wonderful items to bid on.

Tickets are $75 per person and can be purchased from the SEADAC office by calling (334) 702-7139.

SEADAC To Hold Biannual Auction

www.dothan.com 9

BusinessBriefs

Dothan Real Estate Team Welcomes New Agent

The Dothan Real Estate Team invites you to join them to welcome Jake Pendleton to its team of agents.

Pendleton, who was born an Army brat at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, is

the second-born of eight children. He spent most of his childhood moving between Alabama, Texas and Germany. He moved to the Wiregrass community as a youngster and considers this area to be his forever home.

In keeping with further personal goals and the needs of his own family, Pendleton made a bold career change and graduated from Troy University’s real estate program with the highest scores in his class. He is now a member of the Dothan Real Estate team and looks forward to continuing to serve his community through both his career and personal time.

Pendleton is married to a former Majorette from Headland and has four precious children whom he refers to as his “favorite humans,” plus a trained German shepherd named Princess Leia. His hobbies include long-distance running, riding his Harley-Davidson, playing any 80’s hair band song on the electric guitar, playing the violin, piano and mandolin, and serving as a worship musician for various events around the community.

Pendleton also operates a ministry in the Florida prison system where he shares the hope of the Gospel with groups of 100 inmates at a time and helps coordinate programs for re-entry into society for inmates who are released.

For more information, or to contact Pendleton, give Dothan Real Estate Team a call at (334) 699-7653.

Jack Pendleton,Realtor

In a ranking of the more than 15,000 skilled nursing homes, U.S. News & World Report has recognized Dothan’s Westside Terrace Healthcare as one of America’s Best Nursing Homes. Of the 225 Alabama nursing homes ranked for 2017-18, there were only 44 recognized as top performers.

“We are thankful for everything our amazing team of professionals does to ensure we are always at our best,” said Westside Terrace Administrator Kristie Hughes.

The ranking method is based on information supplied by Nursing Home Compare, a program run by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Known as CMS, this federal agency establishes and enforces the standards for skilled nursing facilities. Periodically, CMS evaluates the homes in three areas: state-conducted health inspections, nurse staffing and medical quality measures. CMS later determines a star rating for each area.

Each nursing home receives an overall rating of one to five stars and Westside currently has a five-star rating. The publication recognized the 2,005 facilities out of more than 15,000

in the nation that earned an overall rating of four and a half stars and above to qualify with the distinction as a U.S. News Best Nursing Home.

For more information on the list and Westside Terrace, visit http://bit.ly/2ArSmGi.

Built in 1994, Westside Terrace Healthcare Center is one of the newest and best-skilled nursing facilities in Alabama. Located in Dothan, it is also one of America’s finest long-term care facilities offering clean, comfortable private and semi-private rooms; spacious living areas; and four open courtyards for its residents and their families. To learn more, visit www.westsidecares.com.

Westside Terrace Receives Top Nursing Home Ranking

Flowers Medical Group Primary Care Locations500 Healthwest Dr. • Dothan, AL 36303 • 334-641-4073

4300 West Main St., Suite 16 • Dothan, AL 36305 • 334-697-80554300 West Main St., Suite 41 • Dothan, AL 36305 • 334-731-7102

210 Westside Drive • Dothan, AL 36303 • 334-759-3054108 Medical Drive • Dothan, AL 36303 • 334-309-82784126 West Main St. • Dothan, AL 36305 • 334-309-8598

144 Virginia Avenue • Daleville, AL 36322 • 334-731-7121

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

Online scheduling is available for select providers at FlowersMedicalGroup.com.

ASK ABOUT

SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS FOR PRIMARY CARE.

FlowersMedicalGroup.com

99309_FLOW_PCP_CallTrack_4_75x4_1845c.indd 1 10/6/17 4:45 PM10 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS JANUARY 2018

BusinessBriefs

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 is 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!”

Community Dental SeminarJan. 4 • 11 a.m.Wallace Community College, Center for Economic and Workforce Development. Dothan Periodontics & Implants holds a community dental seminar the first Thursday of each month. Come discover what’s new in dentistry from dental implants, dental laser procedures, gum grafting procedures, Botox for TMD/migraines, dermal fillers and more. To reserve your seat, call (334) 793-7232.

Community Dental SeminarJan. 5 • 9 a.m.St. Columba Catholic Church. On the first Friday of each month, moms and kids are invited to come to the 9 a.m. Mass at St. Columba Church. After Mass, moms and kids are invited to the gym afterward for story time and crafts for kids, and coffee and fellowship for moms. All moms and children are welcome. For more information, call (334) 944-6523.

1st Saturday Family DayJan. 6 • 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.

Upcoming Member EventsArt After HoursJan. 18 • 5:30 p.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art & Conference Center. WMA’s quarterly event will mark the opening of new winter exhibitions, including the display of visitor favorites from WMA’s permanent collect, photographs of Dr. G.W. Carver from the P.H. Polk collection, photography by Pamela Venz and blues music memorabilia by Mike McCarty. Snacks and drinks available for purchase. For more information, contact the museum at (334) 794-3871 or visit www.wiregrassmuseum.org.

Health ChatJan. 23 • 5:30 p.m.Carnes Chiropractic & Wellness Center, EMS Classroom, 2323 W. Main St., Suite 217, Dothan. Health Chats are presented by Dr. Bob Carnes, from Carnes Chiropractic and Wellness Center, LLC and are held the fourth Tuesday of each month. The monthly topic varies. Health Chats are free and open to the public. When existing patients attend four Health Chats, they receive a free office visit. For more information, call (334) 794-2225.

Blood DriveJan. 29 • 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce. LifeSouth Community Blood Centers will host a blood drive to help save the lives of patients in our community. To donate blood you must be in good health, 17-years-old or older, or 16-years-old with parental permission, weigh at least 110 pounds and show valid phot I.D. For more information, call (888) 795-2707, ext. 53900.

Have an upcoming event planned?

Send your event information to mmckean@dothan.com

Dunn Joins Gene McGriff State Farm Team

Gene McGriff State Farm Agency is pleased to announce the newest member to its team, Leah Dunn. She is looking forward to assisting residents of the Wiregrass with all their insurance needs.

Dunn is a graduate from Troy University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. She recently re-entered the workforce after spending the past six years as a wife and homemaker.

Dunn has been a longtime resident of the Wiregrass area and currently resides in Dothan with her husband, Thomas, and their two daughters Emma and Charlee Kate. She is an active member of Bethel Baptist Church and enjoys spending time with her family and friends in her spare time.

For more information or to contact Dunn, call (334) 793-7618 or visit www.genemcgriff.com.

Leah Dunn

Aces

2018fortheArts

where b l a c k t i e m e e t s a p a i r of d i e

Saturday, January 20, 2018 at 6:30 PM

Tickets are $25 each for DAYP members and$50 each for nonmembers.

909 S Saint Andrews St, Dothan, Alabama 36301

Join the Dothan Area Young Professionals for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, craps, roulette,

blackjack, and poker at our annual Aces for the Arts Casino Night at Dothan’s

Cultural Arts Center.

Temple Emanu-el Sisterhood invites you to its newly revised Art Auction, new auction house, new auctioneer and new genres of art in all media and price ranges at the Temple Saturday, Feb. 3. There will be a preview at 6 p.m. and then the auction at 7 p.m.

Admission is $10 per person and includes hors

d’oeuvres, dessert and beverages. A portion of the proceeds will benefit local charities. There will also be a “Take a Second Look” held Sunday, Feb. 4, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at no charge.

For more info, contact Temple Emanu-El at (334) 792-5001. The Temple is located at 188 N. Park Ave., Dothan.

Temple Emanu-El To Hold Annual Art Auction

www.dothan.com 11

GrowDothan

The Alabama Municipal Electric Authority recently dedicated a new 50-KW solar research project in the city of Dothan. The AMEA-City of Dothan Solar Research Project is located on Westgate Parkway in Dothan. The project was completed in October 2017.

“We are proud of the new solar research project in Dothan as part of our effort to enhance renewable energy in our portfolio,” said Fred Clark, AMEA president and CEO. “We want to thank the city of Dothan for its leadership and partnership in this endeavor.”

In conjunction with the solar research initiative, AMEA has been exploring and researching best practices in community solar parks in partnership with AMEA’s member cities, including the city of Dothan. The AMEA Board of Directors approved a $1

million investment to construct one solar research project in each member city for a total of 11 projects.

On hand for the special event was city of Dothan elected officials, as well as members of the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce, just to name a few.

AMEA, located in Montgomery, is the wholesale power provider for 11 public power utilities in Alabama, which serve some 350,000 customers in Alexander City, Dothan, Fairhope, Foley (Riviera Utilities), LaFayette, Lanett, Luverne, Opelika, Piedmont, Sylacauga and Tuskegee.

For more information, contact Lisa Miller, AMEA manager of communications and marketing, at (334) 387-3501 or lmiller@amea.com.

Officials from the Houston County Career Academy, Dothan Technology Center and Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce visited with Dittus Machining, LLC, a local precision machining/welding fabrication company, to discuss the company’s employment needs and to work together to build a stronger workforce.

One of the priorities of the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce is to advocate for you and your issues in Montgomery that will improve and help make the Wiregrass’ business climate more competitive. Therefore, it is essential that we hear from you so we can share your voice and concerns with our local Wiregrass state legislators.

The Alabama State Legislature will begin its next session Jan. 9, 2018.

Advocating and fighting for a pro-jobs, pro-small business, and pro-Alabama competitiveness legislative agenda begins with the business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders here at home.

Whether it is taxes, spending, regulations, workforce development, health care, infrastructure, education, or any other concern, please share with us any broad or specific issues

that you would like for us to consider as we develop the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2018 state legislative agenda.

Please email me at dmitchell@dothan.com with your thoughts and issues.

Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with us. Remember, your voice can only be heard when you speak up!

Dean Mitchell,Executive Director

AMEA Partners With Dothan To Develop SolarResearch Project

Working To Strengthen Our Area’s Workforce

Make Your Voice Heard In Montgomery!

Fred Clark,AMEA President and CEO

Mark Saliba,Dothan Mayor

12 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS JANUARY 2018

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.

Area Businesses Needed For Career Fair

Sony Scholarship ApplicationsNow Available

DEF To Host Senior Success Workshop

In 2015, there were 3,250 workers employed in non-primary/second jobs within the Dothan Metropolitan Statistical Area (Geneva, Henry and Houston counties). That number was 3,028 in 2014 and 3,010 in 2010. The sectors with the most workers in non-primary jobs were health care (658), retail trade (613) accommodation and food service (490) and administration and support. Between 2010 and 2015 the sectors

that gained the most non-primary jobs were: professional, scientific, and technical services (53), agriculture, forestry, hunting, and fishing (35), and manufacturing (32).

Multiple Jobs And Temporary Help

Steve Turkoski, Project Manager

The Troy University Dothan Campus will host its annual 2018 Valentine’s Day Career Fair Thursday, Feb. 8, from 9 a.m. until noon.

Businesses or organizations interested in having the opportunity to help Troy University Dothan students, upcoming graduates and alumni to “Find the Job You’ll Love” may register for the fair by visiting http://troy.edu/careerservices. Look for the registration page under the Announcements column/Dothan Campus Events in the center of the page. Registrations received on or before Jan. 20, 2017, will receive a free ad in the Student Career Fair Guide.

Business interested in participating can register for the fair by visiting https://troy.edu/careerservices. Look for the registration page under the Announcements column/Dothan Campus Events in the center of the page. Registrations received on or before Jan. 19, will receive a free ad in the Student Career Fair Guide.

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

Sony Scholarship applications are now available. If you or someone you know is a senior at Dothan High or Northview High schools, they are eligible to apply for the Dothan Area Chamber Foundation Sony Scholarship.

A $10,000 scholarship will be awarded to a current senior at both high schools in the spring 2018.

Eligible seniors should see their school guidance counselors to pick up an application package.

Applications are due back to school counselors by 4 p.m. Monday, Feb. 5, 2018.

The Dothan Education Foundation, in partnership with the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce, will host a “Senior Success” workshop Wednesday, Jan. 17, for Northview High and Dothan High schools. The event will take place at Northview and is designed for students who are not seeking to pursue a traditional four-year degree.

The workshop will offer students information concerning post-high school training and/or education options, as well as career opportunities. Students will also hear success stories from area graduates who did not follow a typical four-year degree path. Additionally, some of the top Wiregrass employers will be present to discuss employment opportunities in our area.

For more information, contact the Dothan Education Foundation at (334) 794-6585.

WorkforceDevelopment

www.dothan.com 13

LeadershipDevelopment

The Youth Leadership Dothan-Houston County Class 26 met at the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce in early December 2017 for its Economic Development Day.

The day’s activities kicked off with DACC President Matt Parker providing an overview of the area’s economic overview followed by

tours at CAE USA, Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine and a group activity with Southeast AlabamaWork! Director of Workforce Development Ryan Richards,

Thank you to all the companies and officials involved who made this day possible for the students.

Youth Leadership Dothan-Houston County Class 26Economic Development Day

The Leadership Dothan Class 36 held its Myers Briggs Workshop Day in December 2017.

The day’s activities were held at Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center Inc.’s Sterling Event Service Rotary Hall and began with an icebreaker session with Sharleen Smith from Troy University’s Continuing Education Department.

Over 709 years old and developed by Katharine Cook Briggs and Isabel Briggs Myers, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator can help individuals understand their personality type and identify strengths and weaknesses.

Thank you to Smith and Sterling Event Services who helped make this day a success.

Leadership Dothan Class 36Myers Briggs Workshop

14 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS JANUARY 2018

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 Jan. 15 to March 14, 2018. 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.

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

Name of Nominee: _______________________________________

Company: ______________________________________________

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 CampP.O. Box 638 • Dothan, AL 36302 • Fax: (334) 794-4796

Or email Hayden at hcamp@dothan.com

Nominations are due by March 14, 2018Thank you for your nomination!

2018 Small Business Person of the YearAward Nominations

DOTHAN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Let them find you.

There are a lot of people

looking for your business.

Call (334) 792-5138 to get connected.

Over 4,000 visi t www.dothan.com each month.

Reach new prospects searching for local informat ion about Dothan.

AD SIZE COST PER MONTH 1 Mo. 3 Mo. 6 Mo. 1 Yr.

Standard $75 $67.50 $63.75 $60

Ads will be linked to advertiser’s Website at no additional charge.

ON OUR WEBSITE

We reach the people you should be reaching.

www.dothan.com

Over 6,000* read The Connect ions each month.

Reach over 1,000 Chamber member businesses with a low cost ad each month.

AD SIZE COST PER MONTH 1 Mo. 3 Mo. 6 Mo. 1 Yr.

Bus. Card $130 $117 $110.50 $104Back Cover $160 $144 $136 $128Small $210 $189 $178.50 $168Medium $260 $234 $221 $208Large $375 $337.50 $318.75 $300

IN THIS NEWSLETTER

* Est imated total based on 2,400 subscript ions

DOTHAN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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 12/06/17. Visit www.dothan.com for the most current information.

EconomicIndicatorsLabor Force for the Dothan MSA for October:

63,473 in 2016; 62,781 in 201759,581 in 2016; 60,570 in 2017 Employed

Unemployment for the Dothan MSA for October:6.1% in 2016; 3.5% in 2017

Residential Building Permits for the City of Dothan for October:14 issued ($4.27 million) in 2016; 14 issued ($4.45 million) in 2017

Home Sales in Dothan for October:95 sold in 2016; 117 sold in 2017

Enplanements for Dothan Regional Airport for October:4,627 in 2016; 4,226 in 2017

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

$1,468,050 in 2016; $1,502,469 in 2017 (County)$5,062,484 in 2016; $5,272,259 in 2017 (City)

A Publication of theDothan Area Chamber of CommerceJanuary 2018Vol. 45, No. 4 (USPS 700-660)© Copyright 2018

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