ConnectionsCONNECTIONSDothan Area Chamber of Commerce March 2019

Taking Business On An 80s FlashbackPAGE 4

THE IMPORTANCE OFA Skilled WorkforcePAGE 13

EventsCalendar

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www.dothan.com(334) 792-5138

INSIDEWhat’s

March 2019

2 Events Calendar3 Ribbon Cuttings4 Cover Story7-11 Business Briefs12 Grow Dothan13 Workforce Development14 Small Business Development

Also In This Issue 7 Slingluff United Spans Three

Generations8 Jackson Thornton Celebrates

100 Years11 Wiregrass United Way Exceeds

2019 Goal

Your Cover Photo

ConnectionsCONNECTIONSDothan Area Chamber of Commerce

March 2019

Taking Business On An 80s FlashbackPAGE 4

THE IMPORTANCE OFA Skilled WorkforcePAGE 13

2 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS MARCH 2019

U.S. Capital Update with Sen. Richard Shelby – 7:30 a.m.Location: 795 Ross Clark Circle (Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center Inc.’s Sterling Event Services Rotary Hall)*See page 3 for more information. Reservations required: (334) 792-5138Thank you to our sponsors: Mike Schmitz Automotive Group and SunSouth Bank

Ribbon Cutting: Dothan Ice Cream Co. Relocation – 10:30 a.m.Location: 123 N Foster St.

Ambassador and Diplomat Committee Meeting – 9 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)

Ribbon Cutting: Signarama – 10:30 a.m.Location: 217 Graceland Drive, Suite 2

Ribbon Cutting: Fostering Hope – 10:30 a.m.Location: 1004 Montezuma Ave., Suite 1

Troy University Small Business Counseling – 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)*Reservations required: (334) 792-5138

Ribbon Cutting: The Kart Doctor – 10:30 a.m.Location: 9459 U.S. Highway 84 West

Youth Leadership Dothan-Houston County Education Day – 7:45 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)

Ribbon Cutting: JC Carroll Construction & Masonry – 10:30 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)

Ribbon Cutting: Dear Violet Photography – 10:30 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)

Small Business Seminar: The Art of Story Telling – 2-3:30 p.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)*See Page 14 for more information. Reservations required: (334) 792-5138

Board of Directors’ Meeting – 8:15 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)

Leadership Dothan Public Safety Day – 7:45 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)

Ribbon Cutting: Revive Health and Hydration – 10:30 a.m.Location: 118 S. Woodburn Drive

Ribbon Cutting: It’s Bin Cleaned – 10:30 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)

Ribbon Cutting: KS Handmade – 10:30 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)

Your cover photo features (l-r) Tiana Patrice, owner of Women’s CEO Alliance, and Patreese Walker from Fairytale Chateau Dothan at the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s Spotlight on Business 2019.

March 10

RibbonCuttings

Fazoli’s3421 Ross Clark Circle

Dothan, AL 36303Robert Sirkis

(334) 446-4239www.fazolis.com

RESTAURANTS,FOOD AND BEVERAGE

Momma Goldberg’s Deli

104 Apple Ave., Suite 5 Dothan, AL 36305

Lee McCraney(334)

www.mommagoldbergsdeli.comRESTAURANTS,

FOOD AND BEVERAGE

Edward Jones - Desmond Douglas Financial Advisor 137 N. St. Andrews St.

Dothan, AL 36303Desmond Douglas

(334) 446-3973www.edwardjones.com

FINANCE / INSURANCE

Brannon Stand Christian Academy

2487 S. Brannon Stand RoadDothan, AL 36305

Patricia Howes(334) 699-2722

GOVERNMENT/EDUCATION/INDIVIDUALS

The Park at Ashburn671 Westgate Parkway

Dothan, AL 36303Amanda Dickens(334) 792-0624

www.theparkatashburn.comAPARTMENTS

Emerald Coast Collections, LLC

1213 Main St. Chipley, FL 32428

April Durham(850) 785-0088

www.collectionservices.orgBUSINESS AND

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Five Star Paintingof Dothan

1272 Strickland RoadHeadland, AL 36345

Adrain Hammond(334) 459-9817

www.fivestarpainting.com/dothan

CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT /

CONTRACTORS

iXL Real Estate Wiregrass

3306 Ross Clark Circle, Suite 2

Dothan, AL 36303Tina Hollinger

(334) 350-3351www.334homesearch.com

REAL ESTATE/ MOVING AND STORAGE

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!Sen. Shelby To Provide Capital Update

U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby will join the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce membership Monday, March 4, at 7:30 a.m. for a federal legislative update. The breakfast event will be held at the Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center Inc.’s Sterling Event Services Rotary Hall and will be a great opportunity for local business leaders to hear from one of the most influential and powerful leaders in our nation’s capital.

Individuals tickets are $15 and corporate tables (seats eight) $150. Sponsorships are also available for $350. Deadline to purchase tickets is Friday, March 1, at noon.

To purchase tickets, or for more information, contact Hayden Camp at (334) 792-5138 or email hcamp@dothan.com.

www.dothan.com 3

CoverStory

Taking Business OnAn 80s Flashback

Best In ShowFun Zone Skate Center

Second Place WinnerSpectraCare Health Systems Inc.

Third Place WinnerMelissa Elmore State FarmCook’s Pest Control Durden Outdoor Displays Inc.

If you recently attended the Dothan area Chamber of Commerce’s 28th Annual Spotlight on Business you definitely experienced an “80s Flashback” catching glimpses of Madonna and Back To The Future’s Marty McFly and Dr. Emmett “Doc” Brown all while hearing the sounds of the past from the J. Geils Band’s “Centrefold” and Bonnie Tyler’s “Total Eclipse of the Heart.”

It is estimated there were over 2,000 visitors at the area’s largest trade show which provides the community with the unique opportunity to see who is doing what in the Wiregrass business community. There were both new and long-standing members networking with prospective customers and each other. You could find businesses ranging from banks to physical fitness, home recreation to health care, heating to pest control, entertainment to consultants, and so many more.

Each year a theme is chosen by the DACC to help create some enthusiasm, excitement and even a little “decorating” competition among the participants. As you walked into the Civic Center, you truly felt like you were stepping back in time to the 80s. You could find famous video games like Pac Man, gals dressed in miniskirts and leg warmers, Rubik’s cubes, Members Only jackets, lots of BIG hair, sunglasses and several famous movie scenes like the all American comedy Caddyshack and its famous dancing gopher. Congratulations to this year’s Best In Show winner the Fun Zone Skate Center. Second and third place winners were SpectraCare Health Systems Inc. and Melissa Elmore State Farm Insurance respectively.

As you strolled through the arena, you also had the chance to sample delicious foods from various local restaurants, including Barberitos – A Southwestern Grill & Cantina, Breakfast & Lunch at Tammie’s, Jimmy Johns Dothan Inc., KC Kreative Catering, Newk’s Eatery, Papa John’s Pizza, Red Elephant, Rock-N-Roll Sushi and Tropical Smoothie Café. And to quench that thirst, Coca-Cola Bottling Co United Inc. and Wiregrass Auto Care offered cold sodas and water.

A BIG shout out and thank you to this year’s Spotlight on Business 2019 sponsors: Cook’s Pest Control and Durden Outdoor Displays Inc. It’s with their support and sponsorships that help make the trade show a great event for all involved.

Plans are already underway for next year’s activity, which will take place Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2019, at the Dothan Civic Center. Booths will go on sale in October/November 2019 and we encourage you to stay tuned to find out next year’s Spotlight theme!

Thank You To Our Event Sponsors:

4 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS MARCH 2019

TO OUR 2019 SPOTLIGHT PARTICIPANTSTHANK YOU!

ADT Security Services Inc.AllSouth Urgent Care Clinic Inc.Army Aviation Center Federal Credit UnionAvadian Credit UnionBarberitos - A Southwestern Grille & CantinaBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Showcase PropertiesBreakfast & Lunch at Tammie’sCoca-Cola Bottling Co. United Inc.Coleman Worldwide MovingComfort Systems USA SoutheastCook’s Pest Control SPONSORCovenant Care Dermatology Specialists of AlabamaDigital Marketing Experts Dothan Area Young ProfessionalsDothan Houston County Library SystemDothan Networking AllianceDurden Outdoor Displays Inc. SPONSOR Emerald Coast Answering Service Encompass HealthFASTSIGNS of DothanFive Star Credit UnionFlowers HospitalFun Zone Skate Center Fyzical Dizziness and Fall Prevention CenterHarris Security Systems Inc.Health Center South Medical Tower HealthActions Physical TherapyHenry County Health & Rehabilitation Facility Houston County Republican WomenJimmy Johns Dothan Inc. KC Kreative CateringLarry Blumberg & Associates (LBA Hospitality) Like Mind MarketingMattress USAMayer Electric SupplyMedical Advocacy & Outreach (MAO)Melissa Elmore State Farm Insurance NAI TALCORNAPA Auto Parts Papa John’s PizzaPR CompaniesRAM HotelsRed Elephant Pizza & GrillScenic Cable Network & ProductionSERVPRO of DothanSlay-All-Day Pressure WashingSoutheast Alabama Child Advocacy CenterSoutheast GasSpectraCare Health Systems Inc.Takeout Star

Techway Automotive, LLC The Pepi CompaniesTitan Magic & Brain Busters Escape Rooms Transformation MediaTroy Cablevision Inc.Troy UniversityTroy University Continuing EducationTroy University Small Business Development CenterTyndall Federal Credit UnionVisit DothanWallace Community CollegeWesley Place on Honeysuckle Wiregrass Auto CareWiregrass Courier, LLCWiregrass Warehouse Inc.Women’s CEO AllianceWTVY-TV Gray Television Inc.Zonta Club of Dothan

80sFLASHBACK!

www.dothan.com 5

RenewingMembers

Clip and add these to your Membership Directory.NewMembers

70 Or More YearsHudson Office Supply Inc.Mayer Electric SupplyMcDaniel & Associates, PC50-59 YearsAAA Cooper TransportationBarge Design SolutionsCentury 21 James Grant RealtyCoca-Cola Bottling Co. United Inc.Davis Oil Co.Dothan Animal HospitalDothan Brace ShopDothan EagleDothan PowersportsFlowers HospitalHardwick, Hause, Segrest & WaldingHathcock Roofing & Remodeling Co.Hollis & Spann ContractorsHouston County Farmers FederationLee, Livingston, Lee, Nichols & Barron, PCMcClintock, Nelson & Associates, CPA’s, PCMike Schmitz Automotive GroupNorthcutt Drug Co.Poly Inc.Ramsey, Baxley & McDougleRegions BankRegister Realty Co. Inc.Smith’s Inc. of DothanSoutheast GasSwedish Match CigarsTom West Co.Twitchell Technical Products, LLCWhatley Supply Co.WTVY-TV Gray Television Inc.40-49 YearsBill E. Mullen, CPABob Woodall Air Care Systems Inc.Dunbarton Corp.Durden Outdoor Displays Inc.Harts & FlowersHome Oil Co. Inc./Hobo Pantry Food StoresKing’s Appliances Inc.McDonald’s of DothanMidSouth BankPalmer Electric Construction Co.PeoplesSouth BankShute Pecan Co. Inc.Southeastern Oral-Maxillofacial & Facial Cosmetic Surgery Center, PC

Southern Bone and Joint SpecialistsSouthern Business Systems30-39 YearsAlabama Power Co.Army Aviation Center Federal Credit UnionDothan Landmarks FoundationENT CareFarley Nuclear Energy Education CenterFlowers Insurance Agency, LLCHarley-Davidson of DothanJackson ThorntonThe Old Mill RestaurantRed Roof Inn & SuitesTerry L. Horn, CPATroy UniversityWiregrass United WayWiregrass Warehouse Inc.Women’s Health Care of Dothan, PCWOOF AM/FM25-29 YearsReal Estate Services of Dothan Inc.S. Brannon Clothing Inc.Saliba Construction Co. Inc.Scott-Cook PharmacyWomen’s Medical Center, PC20-24 YearsAlabama Department of Rehabilitation ServicesBuilders Door and HardwareRidgecrest Baptist Church15-19 YearsAlabama Technology NetworkDeanco Auto Auction Inc.Dothan Pilcher Ambulance ServiceFort Rucker Morale, Welfare and RecreationHall Housing Investments Inc.Southern Heritage Funeral Home & CrematoryTemple Emanu-elTown of Midland CityZaxby’s

10-14 YearsBelk - Wiregrass Commons MallColdwell Banker Commercial - Alfred Saliba RealtyDenton Road Mini-Storage, LLCDothan Networking AllianceFirst South Farm CreditHoliday Inn Express Hotel & Suites

LaQuinta Inns & SuitesMurray’s IrrigationNorthview Christian ChurchTown of CowartsWhittaker Marketing5-9 YearsAlabama Motor Express LogisticsAmedisys Home Health CareAngel Hands Home CareAtlantic and Southern EquipmentCarMaxCollier, JackDandridge Dental, PCDothan Tuesday Rotary ClubFirst Light Home CareFord Finders Employment Services, LLCHomeTown Lenders, LLCJ. Michael Lee Associates Inc.Mary Kay CosmeticsMike’s Plumbing and Electric, LLCPeter A. McInish, LLCRaymond JamesWinco, LLC dba Bojangles’ #1144Wiregrass BEST Inc.Wiregrass Spay/Neuter AllianceZonta Club of Dothan1-4 YearsADS SecurityDennis Lee, LLCDove Christian SupplyEdward Jones - Brandon Apida, Financial AdvisorEdward Jones - Greg Wakefield, Financial AdvisorFASTSIGNS of DothanFlowers Medical Group Family Medicine DothanFreedom Payment Systems, LLCFresenius Kidney Care DothanHeartlandHousing Authority of the City of Dothan, ALIngram Land & Realty, LLCMAHA USA, LLCMomma Goldberg’s DeliMotobilt Inc.NAI TALCORPreferred Risk ServicesReplica PlasticsShelor and Hundley Urology, PCShift DesignsTownePlace SuitesWiregrass Equipment Co.

America’s Car-MartJamie Billings3171 S. Oates St.Dothan, AL 36301PH: (334) 350-3391www.car-mart.comAUTOMOTIVE / MARINE / AVIATIONChristian Kids AcademySue Tate205 Executive Park Drive2932 Ross Clark Circle, #369 (UPS Store)Dothan, AL 36301PH: (334) 406-0270www.facebook.com/christiankidsacademyGOVERNMENT / EDUCATION / INDIVIDUALSDear Violet PhotographyKim Thomas405 Prestwick DriveDothan, AL 36305PH: (334) 379-6560www.dearvioletphotography.comBUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICESDothan Diagnostic ImagingTiffany Guckenberg217 Graceland Drive, Suite 4Dothan, AL 36305PH: (334) 350-3168FAX: (334) 671-1678www.southernradiologyspecialists.comDENTIST / HEALTH CARE / PHARMACYForme NvasiveMechau Mowbray5630 W. Main St., Suite 3Dothan, AL 36305PH: (334) 446-7002www.formenvasive.comDENTIST / HEALTH CARE / PHARMACY

iHeart MediaGregory Benefield203 Gunn RoadMontgomery, AL 36117PH: (334) 274-6464FAX: (334) 274-6467ADVERTISING / GRAPHIC DESIGN /MARKETING / MEDIA / PRINTINGIt’s Bin Cleaned LLCTerry Simmons1244 Harden RoadSlocomb, AL 36375PH: (334) 258-5428www.itsbincleaned.netHOME / GARDENKatfish KornerLisa Brown3356 Reeves StreetDothan, AL 36303PH: (334) 446-6387RESTAURANTS, FOOD AND BEVERAGE

KS HandmadeKeisha Schermerhorn130 Ridgecrest LoopDothan, AL 36301PH: (334) 701-0410www.kshandmade.comARTS / CULTURE / ENTERTAINMENTRJ Saxons, LLC dba KT’sJason Mouniz168 S. Foster St.Dothan, AL 36301PH: (334) 796-7654RESTAURANTS, FOOD AND BEVERAGE

Titan Magic & Brain BustersEscape RoomsJames Cunningham518 N. Daleville Ave.Daleville, AL 36322PH: (334) 494-5996www.titanmagic.netARTS / CULTURE / ENTERTAINMENT

Wiregrass Wealth ManagementAdam Thomas306 Regency CourtDothan, AL 36305PH: (334) 803-0376www.wiregrasswealth.comFINANCE / INSURANCE

Wounded Warriors of Alabama Inc.Bill Williams515 N. Eastern Blvd. 815 Snow St. Oxford, AL 36203PH: (256) 458-2715 (cell)www.alabamasoldier.org

6 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS MARCH 2019

Ambassadors&Diplomats

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.

Congratulations to the Ambassador and Diplomat Team of the Month “Chamber Six Pack” for claiming this month’s title. Team members (seated l-r) Tara Ryals, Troy University; Mary Colburn, Wiregrass Auto Care; Karen Forehand, MidSouth Paving Inc.; (standing) Elizabeth Buntin, Century 21 James Grant Realty; Tim Rockwell, Country Financial; and Sheila Cestaro, WDHN TV-18. Team member not pictured is Kelley Massingill, Veterans Cleaning Solutions.

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

Chamber Six Pack

Star Of The Month

Mary ColburnWiregrass Auto Care

In 1928, Mickey Mouse made his debut in Steamboat Willie and a pair of men’s alligator oxfords ran $5.95. It was also the year Betts Slingluff Sr. opened Slingluff United Insurance. In an age where businesses set up shop and fizzle overnight, Slingluff embodies what it means to be family owned and ingrained in community. Here’s the backstory of their 90 years in business...

After graduating from Johns Hopkins University, Slingluff took a job in Dothan. Armed with a staff of one, and a whole lot of grit, he set his sights on the insurance industry. By 1945, he had outgrown his office in the First National Bank of Dothan building and moved down Foster Street. 1963 brought a fresh start on South Oates Street where Slingluff United is today, and the addition of his son, Morris. Over the next 42 years, the agency would grow from a modest office to a staff of 16 associates.

In 2005, Morris Slingluff turned the reins over to his son, Ben, who continues to cultivate a team of diligent and personable people who are the heart of Slingluff United. The way the staff handled the aftermath of Hurricane Michael reaffirmed why they were in the insurance business in the first place: to help others during a disaster.

“I had agents in here the day after the storm before 7 a.m., ready to help,” said Ben Slingluff. “Most of them had families at home with no electricity, but they were here and out in the field checking on people.”

As Slingluff United begins its 91st year, the company remains more devoted than ever to doing good in the community and representing the insurance industry with integrity.

For more information, contact Slingluff United Insurance at (334) 792-5101 or visit www.slingluffunited.com.

Slingluff United Spans Three Generations

BusinessBriefs

Ben Slingluff (center) and Steve Thompson (right) from Slingluff United Insurance serve lunch to the city of Dothan’s Public Works Department after Hurricane Michael.

www.dothan.com 7

SEADAC To Present “The Greatest Show On Earth”

The Southeast Alabama Dance Co. will present its spring show The Greatest Show, A Tribute To Barnum & Bailey Thursday-Sunday, March 7-10, at the Dothan Civic Center. Performance times vary.

To purchase tickets, call the Dothan Civic Center Box Office at (334) 615-3175. Or for more information, visit www.southeastalabamadancecompany.org.

BusinessBriefs

Jackson Thornton Celebrates 100 YearsJackson Thornton, a certified public

accounting and consulting firm, is celebrating two big milestones in 2019: its 100th birthday and the roll-out of a new corporate brand identity and tagline across all its entities.

Jackson Thornton was founded in 1919 in Montgomery, Alabama, which remains the location of the firm’s corporate headquarters. Through the years, the firm has expanded into seven offices in three states: Alabama, Tennessee and Kansas. In honor of its centennial, Jackson Thornton’s staff will celebrate with a special year of giving back in each of the communities it serves.

“As we begin our second century, we wanted a way to show our appreciation to the communities who have been so welcoming of us,” said Ned Sheffield, Jackson Thornton president and managing principal. “We thought what better way to say thank you than to donate our time, talents and gifts to worthy organizations across our service areas.”

Jackson Thornton’s 200+ person team kicked off its “100 Years | 100 Acts of Service” by packing more than 34,000 meals for Rise Against Hunger. The firm is evaluating additional large-scale opportunities in its

service areas with many smaller service projects already completed.

Also in honor of its 100th birthday, the firm introduced new branding, a new corporate website and an ad campaign focused on generations of client stories. The firm’s new tagline, “Set the bar higher,” is a call for both employees and clients to raise their expectations of Jackson Thornton even higher in the coming century. To watch the video from the 100 Years | 100 Acts of Service kick off, visit www.jacksonthornton.com/jt100andaccounting-video.

22nd Annual Community-Wide Prayer Breakfast

Dothan Civic Center April 17, 2019 • 7:30 a.m.

Writer and speaker Sherri Burgess will be the guest speaker at the 22nd Annual Community-Wide Prayer Breakfast at the Dothan Civic Center Wednesday, April 17, at 7:30 a.m.

Author of the book Bronner: A Journey To Understand, Burgess is the wife of Rick Burgess, co-host of “The Rick and Bubba Show” radio program.

Individual tickets are now on sale for $15 and are only available through the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce. Corporate tables of eight are $150. Deadline to purchase tickets is April 10.

To purchase tickets by phone with a credit card, or for more information, call Julie Mollohan at (334) 792-5138 or jmollohan@dothan.com.

Guest SpeakerSherri Burgess

The Jackson Thornton team kicked off its “100 Years | 100 Acts of Service” by packing more than 34,000 meals for Rise Against Hunger.

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 PM8 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS MARCH 2019

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 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!”

First Friday Mother’s GroupMarch 1 • 9 a.m.St. Columba Catholic Church. On the first Friday each month, moms and kids are invited to come to the 9 a.m. Mass. After Mass, moms and kids are invited to the gym for story time and crafts for kids, and coffee and fellowship for moms. All moms and children are welcome. For more information, contact the church at (334) 944-6523.

1st Saturday Family DayMarch 2 • 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.

#SaveTheDateFor These Upcoming Member Events

Small Business CounselingMarch 12 • Vary Dothan Area Chamber. Troy University’s Small Business Counseling offers small business counseling sessions the second Tuesday each month from 9:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. These half-hour counseling sessions are free, but pre-registration is required. To register, call (334) 792-5138.

Thirsty Pig TrimTab TakeoverMarch 14 • 5-7 p.m.Thirsty Pig. Come out and meet Jimmy Steward from TrimTab and sample several of their wonderful beers. Glass and prize giveaways all evening. This will be the official kick off to a three-day Saint Paddy’s day party at the Thirsty Pig. For more information, call (334) 699-1475 or visit www.thirstypig.beer.

Spring Farm DayMarch 16 • 10 a.m.Landmark Park. Turn back the clock 100 years and experience living history demonstrations of sheep shearing, blacksmithing, plowing with mules, basket weaving, quilting and other traditional springtime farm activities. Entertainment will include two stages of traditional music. For more information, call the park at (334) 734-3452 or visit www.landmarkparkdothan.com.

Have an upcoming event planned?

Send your event information to mmckean@dothan.com

Newsweek Honors Home Instead Senior Care

Home Instead Senior Care is proud to announce it’s been named to Newsweek’s inaugural list for America’s Best Customer Service 2019.

“This award shines a light on the unparalleled dedication to excellence of Home Instead CAREGivers, franchise owners, key players and Home Office team members as we continue our journey of enhancing the lives of aging adults and their families, “ said Jeff Huber, Home Instead Senior Care president and CEO.This unsolicited list derives scores from a series of independent surveys, collected for Newsweek by an organization called Statista. Top brands each received about 100 evaluations from customers. Scores weighed Net Promoter Score, which is the likelihood of recommendation, with these five evaluation criteria:1. Quality of Communication - measuring

overall friendliness and politeness of email, telephone and in-person communication;

2. Technical Competence - measuring the quality of information received with sufficient detail;

3. Range of Services - measuring fulfillment of one’s personal expectations;

4. Customer Focus - measuring whether personal concerns were addressed; and

5. Accessibility - measuring the availability of customer service staff.

6. Home Instead Senior Care provides in-home services such as companionship, housekeeping, meal preparation, personal care, errands, incidental transportation, Alzheimer’s/dementia care and offers free care consultations. For more information, contact Liz Woodard,

community service representative, at (334) 699-6815, liz.woodard@hoomeinstead.com or visit www.homeinstead.com/689.

Cusinine from around the world will be on display for guests to enjoy during the Zonta Club’s annual International Food Festival to be held Saturday, March 9, at the National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, at 6 p.m.

Advance tickets are $30 for adults, $10 for children 10 years old and under, and children under 4 are free. At the door, tickets are $35 for adults and $15 for children. Sponsorship opportunities for the event and reserved tables, seating for eight ($350) or six ($200),

are also available.The festival is a great opportunity for family,

friends, neighbors and companies to support local organizations that empower the young girls and women of our community.

Tickets are sold online at www.eventbrite.com or on location at The Redd Dresser, Shute Pecan Co. and Lewis-Smith Supply. For more information or tickets, contact Angie McKinney at (334) 714-8958 or Amanda Enfinger at (334) 618-4532.

Zonta International Food Festival To Be Held March 9YOURCHAMBER

A lwaysBuyChamber!

Remember your ABC’s...

www.dothan.com 9

SERVPRO of Dothan and Coffee, Dale, Geneva and Henry counties is proud to announce the promotion of Jessica Whitehead as the new sales and marketing manager. Whitehead has been with the company since October 2017

and has over 10 years of retail sales and customer service experience and five years of business-to-business sales.

“Jessica’s hard work and dedication to the SERVPRO system has earned her the position of sales and marketing manager,” said Barry Montgomery, SERVPRO general manager. “We are excited about her contribution to the continued growth of our company.”

Whitehead serves as an Ambassador for the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce and a board member for the Dothan Area Young Professionals. Originally from Tifton, Georgia, she resides in Dothan with her husband Kyle and stepson Haiston. In her spare time, Whitehead enjoys DIY projects with her husband, vacationing and classic movies.

For additional information on SERVPRO’s services, contact Whitehead at (334) 805-9103 or visit www.servprodothan.com.

The Dothan Real Estate Team welcomes Amanda Shelley to its ever growing agency. As a realtor, Shelley is looking forward to being an advocate for her clients whether buying or selling a home.

Born and raised in Dothan, Shelley

at an early age found her love for the arts and volunteered with the Southeast Alabama Dance Co. for set design while attending Wallace Community College for art studies. She continued to broaden her artistic studies thru 2013.

In 2013, Shelley began working with her husband Clint at Branton Land Surveyors. Through working at Branton Land Surveyors, she has developed knowledge of land parcels, real estate and land development. Growing on this knowledge, she and her husband started a real estate investment company in 2017. Opening this company led her to obtaining her Real Estate license.

Throughout her different career roles, customer service has been a hallmark for Shelley. She is excited to bring this same service to her career in real estate where she is looking forward to working with you.

For more information, give Shelley a call at (334) 699-7653.

BusinessBriefs

Digital Marketing Experts Announces Wiregrass VIP PassDigital Marketing Experts, one of the

nation’s premier providers of digital marketing services, is pleased to announce its new Wiregrass VIP Pass, a revolutionary new way for businesses to get exposure to thousands of families in the Wiregrass area.

As a fully interactive-guide in Facebook Messenger, Mobile Wallet and City Guide, users will be able to: • Promote their business and offers; • Share their business offers instantly from

their mobile phone; • Claim and redeem special offers promoted;

and • Be one of an “Exclusive” list of businesses in

their own category. Digital Marketing has integrated Facebook

Messenger, which has over 1.5 billion monthly users. Tapping into this new marketing channel allows businesses to reach their customers in a unique and effective way. Over 2.3 billion people are using Mobile Wallet worldwide

because of the convenience it provides.Mobile Wallet provides users with a digital

Pass which is always stored in their Wallet app either on their iPhone or Android phone that is fully interactive with their business. At the touch of a button customers can: • Call to make a reservation;• Get directions to the business using Mobile

Wallet;• Like and follow the business on social media;

and• Redeem special offers and promotions from

the business.For local business owners this is huge and

with Digital Marketing Experts exclusive packages, clients will get monthly detailed reports on the performance of their offers.

For more information on the Wiregrass VIP Pass, contact Donnia Rambin at (334) 589-9052, donnia@mydmeonline.com or visit www.mydmeonline.com.

Jessica Whitehead,Sales and Marketing manager

Amanda Shelley,Realtor

The CAE USA Dothan Training Center donated a golf cart to Love in Action International Ministries. Pictured (l-r) are CAE Facilities and Logistics Manager Sam Morehead, CAE Program Manager Todd Conyers and Love In Action President Ken Tuck.

Along with not only providing daily hot lunches to the local nonprofit Love In Action International Ministries, the CAE USA Dothan Training Center has also donated a six-seater golf cart to the organization.

“We have a golf cart! Praise God! Thank you CAE USA, for donating this golf cart to us,” said Ken Tuck, Dothan’s Love In Action president. “Sam Morehead and everyone at CAE are such blessings to us. They donate a hot lunch to us every day, and it is always delicious. It consists of one meat and two vegetables and rolls. They help us with at least 160 meals every week.”

Love in Action will use the golf cart to help its homeless friends who aren’t very mobile get around the ministry’s campus easier. It will also come in hand to help with transporting donations from the office down the hill to suites 4 and 6, and for many other uses.

For more information, contact Jeslen Morehead, CAE office manager, at (334) 873-2401 or jeslenmorehead@caemilusa.com.

CAE Donates Golf Cart To Help Local Nonprofit

YOURCHAMBER

AttentionMembers!

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.

Whitehead Receives Promotion

Shelley Joins Dothan Real Estate Team

10 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS MARCH 2019

Westside Terrace Healthcare has been recognized as a 2018 recipient of the Pathway to Performance Excellence Award for its commitment to improving the lives of residents through quality care. The distinction is the introductory level of three progressive award levels through the Alabama Performance Excellence Award program.

“It’s tremendous to be honored at a statewide level for our commitment to care and to know that our efforts are helping our residents live better lives,” said Administrator Kristie Hughes.

The program promotes quality and high performance for businesses and organizations in the state. Westside Terrace was one of five award recipients.

The award criteria is based on the core values and criteria of the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program. This internationally-recognized framework helps organizations among different industry sectors improve organizational effectiveness and achieve strategy-driven performance.

“The examiners and judges were very impressed with the commitment Westside has made to performance excellence,” wrote Linda Vincent, executive director of the Alabama Performance Excellence Program, in a letter announcing the honor.

For more information, contact Teri Sumbry, communications and public relations specialist, at (334) 394-2310, ext. 2514 or tsumbry@westsideteam.com.

Greystone United Methodist Church’s Men’s Ministry will present “In The Zone 2019 Gameday Simulcast for Men” Saturday, March 2, at 8:15 a.m. All are invited to attend this free event.

The day will begin with breakfast being served at 8:15 a.m., registration from 8:30-8:50 a.m., followed by the simulcast from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.

To reserve your seat, or for more information, contact Mark Robbins at (334) 794-6725 or email info@greystonedothan.org.

Coffman International Inc., a local International Truck commercial dealership, has received the prestigious International Truck Presidential Award. Introduced in 2018, the award honors the top 7 percent of International Truck dealerships that achieve the highest level of performance in terms of operating and financial standards, market representation and most importantly, customer satisfaction.

“This award is the highest honor an International dealer principal can achieve from the company,” said Mark Belisle, senior vice president of distribution at Navistar. “Coffman International, is one of only 15 International dealerships in the United States and Canada who earned this prestigious recognition in 2018.”

Belisle continued, “The Presidential Award also recognizes the effort and dedication of all the dealership’s employees. A highly-skilled, professional staff is a critical success factor for any commercial truck dealership. John and Mark Coffman are clearly committed to growing their business and being recognized by customers as the dealership of choice in their market. I congratulate everyone at Coffman International for their commitment to outstanding customer service, operational excellence and representation of the International Truck brand.”

“This award is a great honor for everyone at Coffman International because it recognizes all the hard work and professionalism we bring

to customers in the area,” said John Coffman. “Everyone at Coffman is dedicated to providing an outstanding customer experience. Our customers rely on us to keep their businesses moving and growing. For more than 42 years, our customers have been returning to us because they know we deliver quality International products and services that help drive profits to their bottom line.”

Coffman International is a full-service International Truck dealership serving customers in the Wiregrass area. Coffman is also an Idealease affiliate. For more information, contact John Coffman at (334) 726-4901, john@coffmantruck.com or visit www.coffmaninternationaltrucks.com.

BusinessBriefs

Wiregrass United Way Exceeds GoalJoseph Johnson, overall campaign chairman,

announced at a February press conference that the Wiregrass United Way had exceeded their campaign goal of $2,870,000. By reaching this goal, the local United Way will now receive a $400,000 Challenge Pledge from the Wiregrass Foundation.

Many area businesses and individuals across the six-county region covered by the United Way made the campaign a success. “More than 8,150 individuals have made a financial pledge to this year’s campaign,” noted Johnson.

Now that the campaign has ended, United Way volunteers will visit each of the 42 agencies to discuss their needs for the year. At the conclusion of the agency visits, they will recommend to the United Way Board of Trustees an allocation amount for each agency for 2019.

Some of the highlights of the recent campaign included the Pacesetter Kickoff sponsored by Morris, Cary, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers where more than 20,000 meals were packaged for the Wiregrass Area Food Bank in 39 minutes; a Bus Tour of the six-county region to kick off the campaign with a mini campaign kickoff event at each stop that included local civic and community leaders, cheerleaders and bands; a fundraiser at the new Metro Diner before their

grand opening that raised almost $4,000; a mobile app promotion with Chick-fil-A on Ross Clark Circle that raised more than $7,000; Dine Out Dothan, a giveaway of 19 $100 restaurant gift cards that raised more than $22,400; and in the last week of the campaign a matching gift from Wiregrass Construction that encouraged others to make a donation that would be matched.

The Wiregrass United Way has served the community since 1938. For more information, visit www.wuw.org or check out their Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts.

Coffman International Inc. received the 2018 International Truck Presidential Award. Pictured (l-r) are owners Mark Coffman and John Coffman.

Wiregrass United Way Campaign Chairman Joseph Johnson and President Walter Hill thank the Wiregrass for helping the organization exceed its campaign goal.

Dothan Nursing Home Wins Statewide

Excellence Award

Greystone United To Host In The Zone Men’s

Simulcast

Coffman international Earns PrestigiousPresidential Award

www.dothan.com 11

GrowDothan

$1,984,000

A priority of the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce is to advocate for you our members and your issues in Montgomery and Washington D.C that will improve and help make the Wiregrass’ business climate more competitive. In conjunction with that, the DACC held its annual Eggs & Issues General Membership Breakfast meeting to give members the opportunity to hear from the Wiregrass delegation.

Alabama Sen. Donne Chesteen, 29th District (Dale, Geneva, Houston); State Representatives Paul Lee, 86th District (Houston); Dexter Grimsley, 85th District (Henry, Houston); Jeff Sorrells, 87th District (Geneva, Houston); and Steve Clouse, 93rd District (Dale, Houston) were on hand to talk about the different issues facing lawmakers in the upcoming 2019 Legislative Session. Some of the topics discussed included the general fund; education budget hearings and trust fund; gas tax and Wiregrass infrastructure package to meet the needs for better roads; state’s prison conditions; and rural broadband.

The Alabama Legislature will begin its 2019 session Tuesday, March 5. DACC members are encouraged to join it and its Legislative Affairs Committee as we host our local Wiregrass representatives and senators for legislative update meetings here at the Chamber office.

Eggs And IssuesAdvocating For You

Eggs and Issues Survey ResultsHow optimistic are you that 2019 will be a good year economically for your business and for the business community as a whole?

Very optimistic 60% Somewhat optimistic 4%Moderately optimistic 35% Not at all optimistic 1%

Do you support a plan that would increase the state gas tax to a rate that would make Alabama regionally competitive and dedicate all funding to fixing Alabama’s crumbling road and bridge infrastructure?

Yes 73% No 6% Depends on how much the tax is 21%

Would you support more investment in health care, specifically through Medicaid expansion?

Yes 25% No 30% Depends on how much the program costs 45%

Alabama currently does not have a state minimum wage; our state instead adheres to the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Would you support Alabama increasing its minimum wage?

Yes 43% No 57%

Alabama’s First Class pre-K program has consistently received recognition for high standards such as teacher qualifications, curriculum, and class size. Currently, about one third of the state’s 4 year olds are covered. Would you support an expansion of the pre-K program?

Yes 75% No 12% Depends on how much the program costs 13%

Broadband connection in many of our rural communities continues to be a challenge. Lack of access to high speed Internet limits economic and educational opportunities. Would you support a multi-year budget appropriation that helps build out Internet service to rural communities?

Yes 87% No 13%

Our state’s prison system continues to be challenged by a host of issues including overcrowding, shortage of staff, and adequate mental health care. Gov. Kay Ivey is considering two main approaches to a plan to build three new men’s prisons – 1) issue bonds to pay for construction, or 2) enter a lease agreement with private companies that build prisons. Which option would you support?

1 - 29% 2 – 44% Neither 27%

Indeed.com lists 1,156 job openings within a 25-mile radius of Dothan. Do you support increased state investment to help offset workforce development challenges that include transportation options, soft-skill training, hard-skills training and educational opportunities?

Yes 67% No 5% Depends on how much it costs 29%

DACC, Dothan City Schools, Liberty Learning Team Together To Share Real Life Challenges With High School Seniors

The Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce, Dothan City Schools and Liberty Learning Foundation recently partnered together to help provide practical advice, expectations and opportunities for Dothan City School seniors as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. Local community and business leaders spoke to all 600 seniors and reminded them about the importance of having a plan, being a good employee and contributing to build a better community.

After hearing from the speakers, students were given a survey to determine the success of the event and to see if they would like to hear the speakers again. Based on the responses, 90 percent of the seniors felt this experience was beneficial and would like future speakers/events to cover topics such as interviewing techniques; financial advice on how to budget, establishing credit and paying taxes; owning a business, types of trades and the best jobs in Dothan; and college preparedness.

Students were also asked to write down something they learned. These are a few of their responses: what to do during an interview; the way you present yourself is one of the most important parts of an interview; always challenge yourself and strive to be better; teamwork; life is about choices; plan, set goals and think positive; the importance of communication; and stay committed and work hard.

Many thanks to all the business and community leaders who spoke to the seniors, it truly made a difference. If you are interested in participating in this program, contact Dean Mitchell, DACC executive director, at dmitchell@dothan.com.

Local community and business leaders spoke to all 600 of Dothan City Schools’ seniors reminding them about the importance of having a plan, being a good employee and contributing to build a better community.

Wiregrass legislators talk with Chamber members during the DACC’s Eggs & Issues General Membership Breakfast. Pictured (l-r) are Alabama Sen. Donnie Chesteen, District 29 (Dale, Geneva, Houston); DACC Governmental Affairs Council Chairman Steve Duebelt; Rep. Steve Clouse, 93rd District (Dale, Houston); DACC Chair Mary Beth Reynolds, Rep. Jeff Sorrells, 87th District (Geneva, Houston); Rep. Dexter Grimsley, 85th District (Henry, Houston); Rep. Paul Lee, 86th District (Houston); and DACC President Matt Parker.

12 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS MARCH 2019

WorkforceDevelopment

In a 2018 University of Alabama, Culverhouse College of Commerce, Center for Business and Economic Research, survey of Alabama businesses the number one issue identified as a pressing need across the state was education and workforce training. The number one issue facing the responding companies was workforce.

The January 2019 edition of Site Selection magazine states, “Site consultants surveyed by Site Selection magazine in October say workforce is the number one factor driving expansion or greenfield location decisions for their corporate clients today.”

So how do the magazine and respondents rate our workforce compared to other states in the region? Alabama is ranked as third place in a three-way tie with Kentucky and Texas, with Tennessee and Oklahoma ranked as first and second within the “South Central” region. The other states in the defined region are Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi. The criteria they considered in their rankings were:• CNBC’s America’s Top States for Business workforce and education rankings;

• Forbes’ Best States for Business, labor supply ranking;

• U.S. News Best States for Education ranking; and

• ACT National Career Readiness Certificates rankings and average number of workforce development enactments passed in the state legislatures.

The latest survey of corporate officers conducted by Area Development magazine found that “90 percent of the Corporate Survey respondents indicate labor costs and skilled labor availability as ‘very important’ or ‘important’ to a location decision. For the corporate entity seeking to reduce risk, a detailed and comprehensive study of an area’s established labor pool and talent pipeline is critical. This would include a demographic analysis of workers in the marketplace by occupation and skill, a deep dive on overall labor market migration (and population migration) trends both historically and looking forward, a thorough analysis of training providers and educational institutions (and the types of graduates/skills they produce), and an in-depth discussion with employers regarding availability of workers and competition for local skilled labor among firms.”

Of the respondents to the survey, 88.8 percent said that the availability of skilled

labor was either very important or important. Fifty-three percent said that the availability of skilled labor was having an effect on current operations or plans for expansion. Of those saying this, 58 percent identified the basic skills as primarily lacking, with 58 percent also saying advanced skills such as: advanced welding, machine tool programing and bioprocessing as lacking. Forty-two percent identified a lack of STEM skills. Approximately 50 percent of respondents noted that the drug crisis was affecting their ability to find qualified workers. Sixty-two percent said that states legalizing marijuana will negatively affect the quality of their workforce.

In Area Development magazine’s 2018 report on top states for doing business, Alabama ranked third, behind Georgia and Texas. In the “competitive labor environment” category, Alabama ranked sixth, and in the category of “Leading Workforce Development Programs” Alabama is ranked second behind Georgia and ahead of Louisiana. INDIVIDUAL CATEGORIESLeading Workforce Development Programs

The importance of a skilled workforce in the furtherment of economic development has been stated many times, but of the utmost importance is our desire and ability to constantly improve the skills of our workforce and always strive to lead the pack. The 2018 Business Facilities magazine, 14th annual state rankings places Alabama at the number two spot for workforce training leaders, but reverses the rankings of Georgia and Louisiana. Alabama has historically held the number one or two spot for many years and is working hard to stay there.WORKFORCE TRAINING LEADERS

The Importance Of A Skilled Workforce And How Alabama Ranks In Its Efforts

Chamber Committee Presents JROTC Cadet Leadership Awards

Steve Turkoski, Project Manager

The Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s Military Affairs Committee presented Cadet of the Year Leadership awards to five local area high school JROTC cadets. Pictured (l-r) are Cadet Cmdr. Alison North and Lt. Cmdr. Jeffrey Treude, Rehobeth High School – Navy JROTC; Cadet Lt. Col. Bailee Segars and Master Sgt. Sedrick Hicks, Northview High School - Marine JROTC; (Ret.) Col. Tom Boyle, DACC Military Affairs Committee chairman; Cadet Command Sgt. Maj. Nathan Nelson and (Ret.) Col. Milton Shipman, Carroll High School - Army JROTC; Cadet Lt. Col. Jamie Peters and (Ret) Col. Teresa Townsend, Daleville High School - Army JROTC; and Cadet Maj. Alex Robert Schaefer and (Ret.) Sgt. Maj. Tracy Adams, Dothan High School – Army JROTC.

During its regular quarterly meeting, the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s Military Affairs Committee honored five local area high school JROTC cadets for their outstanding leadership and performance during the current 2018-2019 school year.

The committee annually dedicates a meeting to honoring the cadets and their commanders in order to show its appreciation and support of the local JROTC programs. Retired Col. Tom Boyle, Military Affairs Committee chairman, presented the Cadet of the Year Leadership awards to:1. Carroll High School - Army JROTC Cadet Command Sgt. Maj. Nathan Nelson Program Commander: (Ret.) Col. Milton Shipman 2. Daleville High School - Army JROTC Cadet Lt. Col. Jamie Peters Program Commander: (Ret) Col. Teresa Townsend3. Dothan High School - Army JROTC Cadet Maj. Alex Robert Schaefer Program Commander: (Ret.) Sgt. Maj. Tracy Adams4. Northview High School - Marine JROTC Cadet Lt. Col. Bailee Segars Program Commander: Master Sgt. Sedrick Hicks5. Rehobeth High School - Navy JROTC Cadet Cmdr. Alison North Program Commander: Lt. Cmdr. Jeffrey Treude

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

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

1. Georgia2. Alabama3. Louisiana4. South Carolina5. Tennessee6. North Carolina

7. Virginia8. Ohio9. Florida10. Mississippi11. Iowa12. California

1. Louisiana2. Alabama3. Georgia4. Tennessee5. New Mexico

6. Florida7. Virginia8. North Carolina9. Oklahoma10. Texas

www.dothan.com 13

jobs. The smallest gains were in firms employing 20 to 99 employees, which added 1,350 net jobs. (Source: Statistics of US Businesses, US Census Bureau)

The Small Business Profiles are produced by the US Small Business Administration’s Office of Advocacy. Each report incorporates the most up-to-date government data to present a unique snapshot of small businesses. Small businesses are defined for this profile as firms employing fewer than 500 employees. Net small business job change, minority small business ownership, and exporter share statistics are based on the 2015 Statistics of US Businesses, 2012 Survey of Business Owners, and 2015 International Trade Administration data, respectively.

SmallBusinessDevelopment

Alabama’s 2018 Small Business Profilethe largest share of small business employment. The below graph provides further details on firms with employees. (Source: Statistics of US Businesses, US Census Bureau)

Private-sector employment increased 1.1 percent during the 12 month period ending in January 2018. This was above the increase of 1 percent during the prior 12-month period. (Source: Current Population Survey, Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor)

The number of proprietors increased in 2016 by 2.3 percent relative to the previous year. (Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, US Department of Commerce)

Small businesses created 15,718 net jobs in 2015. Firms employing fewer than 20 employees experienced the largest gains, adding 8,284 net

#SaveTheDateSmall Business Seminar

The Art of StorytellingDothan Area Chamber of Commerce

March 14 • 2 - 3:30 p.m.

In the business world, it’s your responsibility to differentiate yourself from the competition. This is becoming increasingly challenging in today’s crowded market. One often overlooked way to stand out from the crowd is by harnessing the power of storytelling.

Humans are biologically programmed to pay close attention to information in the form of stories, which makes storytelling an especially powerful sales tool. This means stories are a great way to capture buyers’ attention, boost retention, activate emotions and increase customer engagement.

Join the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce and David Balmer, Dale Carnegie of the Emerald Coast area manager / instructor, for a great seminar on “The Art of Storytelling” Thursday, March 14, from 2-3:30 p.m. at the DACC facility.

You’ll learn techniques for creating two types of sales stories and when to use them for maximum impact. You will refine the content of your stories, practicing the delivery with confidence and bringing mundane facts and figures to life. You’ll also learn where to find content ideas for your sales story, and you will begin to see inspiration every day.

The seminar is free to attend, but pre-registration is required by noon Wednesday, March 13. To reserve your space, contact Susan Tatom at (334) 792-5138.

The Small Business Administration’s Office of Small Business Advocacy does a Small Business Profile each year. According to the 2018 profile:

• There were 392,939 small business;

• There were 98,270 small businesses with employees;

• There were 322,025 small businesses without employees (non-employers); and

• There were 775,829 workers employed by small businesses.

State Economy Overall:In the third quarter of 2017, Alabama grew

at an annual rate of 2.7 percent, which was slower than the overall US growth rate of 3.4 percent. Alabama’s 2016 growth rate of 1.5 percent was unchanged from the 2015 rate of 1.5 percent. (Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, US Department of Commerce)

In January 2018, the unemployment rate was 3.7 percent, down from 5.5 percent in January 2017. This was below the January 2018 national unemployment rate of 4.1 percent. (Source: Current Population Survey, Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor)

Employment:Alabama small businesses employed 775,829

people, or 47.5 percent of the private workforce, in 2015. (Source: Statistics of US Businesses, US Census Bureau)

Firms with fewer than 100 employees have

14 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS MARCH 2019

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 2019 Small Business Person of the Year from Jan. 14 to March 13, 2019. 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 13, 2019Thank you for your nomination!

2019 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

Editor's Note: Sources for this information vary; call the Chamber for details. Data as of 2/04/19. Visit www.dothan.com for the most current information.

EconomicIndicatorsLabor Force for the Dothan MSA for December:

61,087 in 2017; 62,157 in 201858,909 in 2017; 59,857 in 2018 Employed

Unemployment for the Dothan MSA for December:3.6% in 2017; 3.7% in 2018

Residential Building Permits for the City of Dothan for December:9 issued ($2.39 million) in 2017; 6 issued ($1.48 million) in 2018

Home Sales in Dothan for November:112 sold in 2017; 114 sold in 2018

Enplanements for Dothan Regional Airport for December:3,869 in 2017; 4,946 in 2018

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

$1,582,050 in 2017; $1,933,904 in 2018 (County)$5,619,635 in 2017; $6,567,830 in 2018 (City)

A Publication of theDothan Area Chamber of CommerceMarch 2019Vol. 46, No. 6 (USPS 700-660)© Copyright 2019

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