January February 2015 Business Magazine

2014 Annual Report Issue January/February 2015

Tommy Clark, 2015 Chairman of the Board

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IN E D A M #

A G , Y N A B L A

B U SI N ES S Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Magazine

President/CEO Editor Chris Hardy, IOM, CCE Chair Tommy Clark Chair-Elect Ed Newsome Director of Communications Rachelle Bitterman Printing Colson Printing Photography Todd Stone Rachelle Bitterman Director of Sales Donna Gray

Business (U.S.P.S. 886-680) is published bimonthly by the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, 225 W. Broad Avenue, Albany, Georgia 31701. Subscription rate of $50 is included in membership investment. Periodicals postage paid at Albany, Georgia.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Business Magazine, 225 W. Broad Avenue, Albany, Georgia, 31701. For more information about this publication or advertising rates, call (229) 434-8700. This publication is produced by the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Reproduction in whole or part of this publication without expressed written consent of the publisher is prohibited. All claims, materials, and photos furnished or used are, to the publisher’s knowledge, true and correct.

Hence liability cannot be assumed by the publisher for errors or by the publisher for errors or omissions. Advertisements and editorial information published in this publication is subject to the unrestricted right to edit of, and by, our editor/publisher.

U.S. Postal Service Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation Date of Filing: 9/29/08 Business (U.S.P.S. 886-680) is published bi-monthly by the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, 225 W. Broad Avenue, Albany Georgia 31707. Subscription rate of $50 is included in membership investment.

Periodicals postage paid at Albany, Georgia.

Owner/Publisher: Albany Chamber of Commerce 225 W. Broad Avenue, Albany, Georgia 31701

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C O N T E N T S

Comments from the 2015 Chair of the Board

16 Neighboring Businesses Team Up For A Great Business After Hours

30 Thank You Renewing Members

08 Albany Area Chamber of Commerce 2014 Annual Report

10 2015 Executive Committee and Board of Directors

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Mark Your Calendar

2015 New Board Members

NuMBER 1

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Albany Convention & Visitors Bureau 2014 Annual Report

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Chehaw & BreakAway Cycles Partner For A Fanstic BusinessAfter Hours

Star Business of the Week

Albany Area Chamber 2015 Legislative Agenda

Ribbon Cuttings

Welcome Our New Members

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Message From the President/CEO

Albany Surgical Breaks Ground on New Facility

Strive2Thrive 2014 Annual Report

38 Strive2Thrive Rise N Shine

ABOUT THE COVER Tommy Clark took the gavel at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting to become the 2015 Chairman of the Board. To see what Tommy has planned for 2015 please read his messsage on page 6.

Photography by Todd Stone Design by Rachelle Bitterman

w w w. a l b a n y g a . c o m

THE BRANDS YOU WANT AT THE PRICE YOU LIKE FORM THE PEOPLE YOU TRUST

146 North Slappey Blvd.

229.432.9338

January/February 2015

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

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COMMENTS FROM THE 2015 CHAIRMAN It is truly an honor to serve as your 2015 Chamber Chairman. I want to thank Jim Deal for his leadership this past year and his continued involvement in our community. Jim did an amazing job. He built a great foundation and I plan to keep the momentum going.

Giving back to this extraordinary community and service above self is at the core of what drives me as a person. I am a firm believer in the old saying, “Many hands make light work.” As Chamber members, we have a vested interest in making our Chamber more dynamic and our community more vibrant. At the annual dinner, I asked everyone the question, “What is your value without involvement?” I encourage you to think about what that means. Then, let’s all try our best to make a difference in this organization and in our community. Together, there are many great things we can accomplish this year and into the future!

In addition to our outstanding membership, the Chamber staff, led by Chris Hardy, works tirelessly to improve the business community in Albany and the surrounding area. They don’t get a lot of recognition for their effort, so a huge thanks to all of them. The board members and executive team is a dynamic mix of experience and youth. This is a significant advantage as we benefit from the energy and fresh ideas of the younger leaders as well as the wisdom and expertise of our veteran members. One key to any organization in today’s world is staying relevant and I believe our board as well as our programs are meeting that need.

Tommy Clark HeritageBank of the South

Some of the highlights of this past year include kicking off our first ever Institute of Leadership Development class. We had thirteen exceptional participants who will graduate this May and become tomorrow’s community leaders. The Small Business Resource Committee kicked off a “Think Local” campaign recently, which has bolstered awareness and encouraged support of Albany’s businesses. The Education Division has brought all of the local education partners together in collaboration to make education a priority for our school systems and higher education partners. Lastly, the Chamber’s Legislative Affairs Division has established roads to our leaders in Atlanta and Washington providing Albany a voice in what impacts our region.

This year, we will develop a new, three-year strategic plan for the Albany Area Chamber. This is our opportunity to design and implement a strategy that will direct our efforts for the next few years and ensure we are aware of the conditions affecting our community as well as factors that drive our economy.

I firmly believe that 2015 will be a great year and I ask you to get involved. The opportunity is there; it is up to each of us to leave our mark on our home community!

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www.AlbanyGa.com

January/February 2015

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Albany Area Chamber of Com

2014 Annual Report •Held two Salty Sandbagger Marine Base/Business Community Golf Tournaments

Issues Breakfast with Chamber and local business leaders.

•Collected hundreds of items to be given to new doctors entering Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital’s Residency program.

• Provided leadership and participation on the Albany-Dougherty County Economic Development Commissions Recruitment, Retention and Renewal Task Forces.

• Awarded Small Business of the Year to Stewbo’s during the Celebrate Small Business Gala.

• Hosted annual Military Affairs Christmas Social.

• Organized the Star Student Star Teacher honor luncheon.

• Recognized and celebrated 46 members through the Star Business of the Week program.

• Grew Chamber Facebook page from 1,200 fans to more than 2,000.

• Held nine Business after Hours.

• Posted hundreds of member press releases to the Chamber website, www.albanyga.com, and featured the releases as links in the weekly e-newsletter.

• Volunteer Ambassadors participated in 43 ribbon cuttings and one groundbreaking ceremony.

•Appeared weekly for Chamber Chat with WFXL Fox-31 providing updates on Chamber, CVB and community programs and events.

• Held 104th Annual Meeting featuring a dynamic keynote speaker while recognizing our retiring Board members and honoring the Lifetime Service Award, Ambassador of the Year and Non-Profit of the Year.

• Continued the support for the Economic Development Commission through fundraising for Operations and Marketing for our community.

• Held five Rise N Shine breakfasts.

• Hosted five Lunch and Learns.

• Partnered with the SBDC to present Maximum Contact Series Lunch and Learn - a 5-week program that gave participants a closer look at how to grow their business using online marketing tools.

• Provided representation at the GA Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Dinner and Eggs &

Celebrate Small Business

• Held Albany day in Atlanta featuring local business leaders and state delegation.

• Organized the Washington Fly-In with local business leaders and government officials to advocate on behalf of the community and area resources.

• Hosted Business Expo entitled “Lets Grow Together” with hundreds of attendees and more than 50 businesses showcasing their

State of the Community

Lunch

merce

Emerging leaders

products and services.

• Held a raffle during the Small Business Appreciation Gala where $1,000 was given to the winning ticket holder and a portion of the proceeds were given to the Junior League of Albany, the Chamber’s 2014 NonProfit of the Year.

• Formulated the 2015 Legislative Agenda advocating on issues effecting Albany/Dougherty County.

• Surveyed guests at the 2014 Business Expo asking pertinent questions concerning their thoughts on what shopping local means. Also surveyed businesses asking what they would like to see in a shop local program and how it can help the efforts of the Chamber to enhance the business climate in Albany/Dougherty County.

In August of 2014, after a year of planning, the Chamber of Commerce launched a new leadership initiative entitled Institute for leadership Development. Since the orientation, we have held programs containing topics that have included attendance at related Chamber programs and events that have been very successful. The topics covered so far have been Political Savvy, Effective Networking, leadercast viewing with discussion and a Fireside Chat at Major General John J. Broadmeadow’s home at Marine Corps logistics Base Albany at the end of the year. Most recently we held our Image and Media program which was paired with the Chamber’s 105th Annual Meeting.

Our presenters for the Image and the Media program included Karla Heath Sands of WAlB who helped the participants understand how important it

• Hosted 40 under 40 Luncheon in conjunction with the Albany Herald. Honorees are selected by a panel for recognition of their exemplary accomplishments.

New in 2014 • Added two new staff members to the Chamber and CVB staff.

• Hosted the State of the Community Luncheon giving local leaders the opportunity to tout Albany/Dougherty County accomplishments to hundreds of business attendees.

• Hosted the GACCE Regional Road Show for south Georgia with 13 chamber executives in attendance.

• Implemented a new gift card program featuring a community gift card. This program also gives members the opportunity to have their own gift card at no cost to their business.

h & Learn

January/February 2015

is to always be prepared in case the media comes calling. The remainder of the 2014-2015 class programs will include topics such as Financial understanding, Strategic Visioning, Influence and Negotiation and more. We could not have asked for a better start to our new program and we look forward to our upcoming 2015-2016 class. Applications are now being accepted for next year’s program. you may download the application from our website at www.albanyga.com or email Chris Hardy at chardy@albanyga.com to receive yours today.

Business Expo

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2015 Executive Committee Albany Area Chamber of Commerce

Tommy Clark Chairman

Ed Newsom Chairman-Elect

HeritageBank of the South

Albany Air Conditioning & Heating Company

Jim Deal Past Chairman

Jenny Seville Vice Chair Small Business Resource Division

Albany Communications

Bishop Clean Care

Timothy Cross Vice Chair Education Lion Vallen Industries

Bobby McKinney Vice Chair Tourism Division

Pamela Jackson Vice Chair Allies Division

Cynthia George Vice Chair Legislative Affairs

MCLB Albany

Darton State College

Tammy McCrary Vice Chair Membership Division

Bridges Sinyard Vice Chair Leadership Development

Jay Smith Vice Chair Economic Development

ComNet Technical Solutions

Adams Exterminators

Georgia Power

Mike Harris

Calley Hughey-Walker

Jeff Wright

McDonald’s Restaurants

Hughey & Neuman, Inc.

Draffin & Tucker CPAs

2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Vicki Barnhill, Mazur & Hockman Britt Bazemore, KingsMark Private Financial Advisor Tom Berry, City Manager Ken Boler, Albany Herald Publishing Co. MGen. John Broadmeadow, Marine Corps Logistics Command Jessica Castle, Phoebe Putney Health System Chris Cohilas, Chairman Dougherty County Tim Cross, Lion Vallen Industries Richard Crowdis, Dougherty County Administrator Col. Don Davis, MCLB Albany

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Dr. Arthur Dunning, Albany State University Debbie Finney, SBDC Sandy Gregors, Stewbos Mary Beth Hobby, MADLab Marketing Mark Holloway, Modern Gas Company Dorothy Hubbard, Mayor, City of Albany Leslie Hudson, MillerCoors Dr. Paul Jones, Darton State College Chandu Kuntawala, Booz Allen Hamilton Michael Madden, Marine Corps Logistics Command Joey Magaddino, SB&T

Cal McMillan, Ameris Bank Chris Misamore, SunTrust Bank, South Georgia Dr. David Mosely, Superintendent of DCSS Dr. Anthony Parker, Albany Technical College Kirt Phillips, Merrill Lynch Matt Rushton, AB&T National Bank Gary Sanders, Albany Baptist Minister’s Conferernce Jay Sharpe, U-Save It Pharmacy Shirley Sherrod, Resora Scott Tomlinson, Flint Community Bank Werhner Washington, Procter & Gamble

www.AlbanyGa.com

MARK YOUR CALENDAR March 10 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Advent Business Interiors 5:00pm-7:00pm Sponsored by Advent Business Interiors

April 15 INDUSTRY CELEBRATION RISE N SHINE BREAKFAST Hilton Garden Inn 7:30am Networking & Coffee 8:00am Breakfast & Program Sponsored by Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission

April 16 INDUSTRY CELEBRATION BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Doublegate Country Club 5:00pm-7:00pm Sponsored by Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission

T Think hink Alw Alway ay Alban Albany y Firs Firstt January/February 2015

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PROUDLY INTRODUCING...

Our New Board Members for 2015 Britt Bazemore is a Financial Advisor with KingsMark Private Financial Advisors in Albany and has been in the financial services industry for 12 years. Britt has a BBA in Finance and BBA degree in Accounting. He holds the CERTIFIED FINACIAL PLANNER™ designation, and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant with the State of Georgia. Britt is actively engaged in his local community through various civic clubs, professional groups, and charity organizations. Britt and his wife, Kelly, have two young girls Mary Ellis (4) and Carlisle Ruth (2).

Mary Beth Hobby was born and raised in Ashburn, Georgia. Mary Beth is the coFounder of MADlab Marketing, a company specializing in marketing strategies and creative development for small to mid-size companies. Prior to becoming a small business owner, Mary Beth served as the Vice President and Director of Marketing for HeritageBank of the South. She is a graduate of the University of Georgia’s Grady School of Journalism. Mary Beth’s commitment to her community extends to her volunteer experience and shows through her service on many boards.

Jessica Castle is Vice President of Marketing at Phoebe Putney Health System. Prior to joining Phoebe in 2013, she served as the senior director of marketing for Piedmont Healthcare in Atlanta, where she engineered and managed a system-wide brand transformation. She is a member of the American Marketing Association and is a past president and board member of the Georgia Society of Healthcare Marketing and PR. Jessica and her husband, Craig, have four children.

Sandy Gregors was born and raised in Houston, Texas. Sandy moved to Albany, GA in 1985 with a hotel management company. She is the Director of Sales at Merry Acres Inn & Event Center which is the centerpiece of Stewbos, winner of the Chamber’s 2014 Small Business of the Year. Sandy is married to Tommy Gregors and has 3 sons, Trey, Matt and Alex.

Sandy’s commitment to community service includes: AACoC Small Business Committee, Historic Preservation Commission and Albany Convention and Visitors Bureau Advisory Committee.

Tim Cross is a native of Adel, GA. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Public Administration and a Master Degree in both Public Administration and Business and Organization Security Management.

He served as a sworn Deputy Sheriff in Fayetteville North Carolina after graduating from the North Carolina Police Academy. He served in the Army for 26 years and participated in combat operations in Iraq. Currently he holds the position as Operations & Compliance Manager with Lion Vallen Industries.

Debbie Finney brings 28 years of work experience in the private sector to the Small Business Development Center where she now consults with Georgia businesses in the areas of marketing strategies, branding, social media marketing, digital marketing strategies, strategic planning and business management. She has instructed business owners throughout the state on marketing and digital marketing strategy and has presented her program, “Branding – Smart Move for Small Business” nationally. She holds an MBA, University of Georgia and a BBA, Emory University.

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Joey Magaddino has more than 15 years of banking experience including commercial loan portfolio management.

Joey joined SB&T, a division of Synovus Bank, in January 2014 as Vice President of their Commercial Banking Team. He is a native of Albany and graduated from Albany High School. He received a BBA in Marketing from The University of Georgia and also completed the Graduate School of Banking at LSU. Joey has served numerous community and professional organizations and was named to the 2012 Albany Herald 40 Under 40 of SWGA.

Chris Misamore is a Commercial Business Banking Relationship Manager with SunTrust Banks, Inc. He has been with SunTrust Banks, Inc. for five years, and held positions in Sales and Marketing, Executive Management, and Commercial Lending. He and his wife, Brirgit, have three children. They are active in sports, travel, horseback riding, and are members of Leesburg United Methodist Church. Chris is a member of the Albany Rotary Club, as well as a tutor/mentor for the Whiz Kids Tutorial Program in Albany.

www.AlbanyGa.com

Shirley Sherrod serves as the Executive Director of the Southwest Georgia Project For Community Education, Inc., a grassroots organization. She also works with New Communities at Cypress Pond. Shirley has served as USDA Georgia State Director of Rural Development and currently serves on the boards of Africare, Rural Advancement Foundation International, Rural Development Leadership Network. She is a graduate of Albany State University with a degree in Sociology and she has a Master's degree in Community Development from Antioch University.

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AL BA N Y CO NV E N T I ON & VI S I TO R S BU REA U

2014 Annual Report

• The Albany CVB hosted 6 travel writers on individual trips and another 7 as part of a state tour.

The writers varied in focuses from science to outdoor or family travel.

This exposure has led to Albany features in prestigious publications such as the Boston Herald, Chicago Tribune, etc.

• The Albany Marathon and Half Marathon had another successful race March 1, 2014. Celebrating its 8th year, Albany welcomed runners from 40 different states, Austria, Canada, United Kingdom and Venezuela. For the second consecutive year, the marathon is among the top ten qualifiers for the Boston Marathon. Albany Marathon, Inc. was able to give back to two community partners, Thronateeska Heritage Center ($5,000) and Willson Hospice House ($20,000).

• In January the Albany CVB hosted the American Kennel Club Southern Heritage Hunt & Show. The 2nd annual event had 75 hunters and 30 show dogs.

• In February the Albany CVB hosted their annual Family Reunion workshop with Jeff Mills presenting “How to plan a family reunon from A to Z.” • In October, the Albany CVB assisted with the prepping for the short film, Across the Tracks, shot in the Albany area. The short film, produced and directed by a New York based crew, is currently in the editing stages and hopes to make an appearance in several film festivals.

• The Albany CVB partnered with the Downtown Manager’s office and Chehaw to kick off Riverfront Lunchbox Fridays, a weekly public picnic lunch featuring games and live music throughout October.

• The Albany Unchained Bike Race was part of the Southeast Regional Series for the second year with cyclists racing on May 17th and 18th. The weekend of races saw record numbers in registrations. Planning for 2015 is already underway.

• The Albany CVB partnered with the state tourism office on an advertising co-op with the Atlanta Braves.

This partnership allowed Albany to be featured during an inning in six different games. It also included a brick paver booth before the Labor Day game on a promotion night. Over 32,000 fans were exposed and/or given an Albany souvenir.

• The Albany CVB coordinated with Albany State University to organize several events during Homecoming week. It was the first year that the University, students and city combined for a Homecoming Kickoff Celebration at Veteran’s Amphitheater. The Albany CVB and ASU also partnered on a tailgate themed Business After Hours at the ASU football stadium.

• Albany CVB assisted and hosted Craig Miller Productions in November. The film crew shot footage at Wynfield Plantation and of the Freedom Singers for a video that will be shown in the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport Welcome Center in Atlanta.

• In December, the Albany CVB hosted and assisted with the PBS filming of the show Music Voyager. Half of a thirty minute episode will be dedicated to Albany’s musical heritage featuring Mt. Zion Baptist Church, the Freedom Singers and many Albany landmarks. This will be shown internationally. The CVB will receive and be able to reuse the B-roll acquired for future videos, commercials, and more.

Neighboring Businesses Team Up For A Great Business After Hours When neighboring businesses get together it becomes a party and that’s just what happened when Central Monitoring teamed up with Theatre Albany. Central Monitoring wanted to showcase their new demo room but needed more space for members to enjoy networking and Theatre Albany had the space. So it was an ideal match. Everyone enjoyed walking between the two entities, conversing with old friends and making new connections. Thank you to Austin’s Firegrill and Baja’s for the delicious food! Central Monitoring and Theatre Albany held drawings for great door prizes. Douglas Divine with Divine Finney, PC was the lucky winner of the $100 drawing.

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January/February 2015 | BUSINESS

www.AlbanyGa.com

January/February 2015

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Chehaw & BreakAway Cycles Partnered Once Again For A Fantastic Business After Hours For more than three years, Chehaw and BreakAway Cycles have partnered to sponsor the November Business After Hours. Each year this BAH has grown in attendance because the word is out that this is a great event. More than 100 people filled the education center to network and enjoy the fabulous food prepared by Chehaw’s catering department. As usual BreakAway Cycles had a great display of their bicycles and were more than willing to work with anyone interested in purchasing a bike for that special someone for the holidays. Michael Stranberg with Battelle was the lucky winner of the $100 drawing.

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January/February 2015 | BUSINESS

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www.AlbanyGa.com

Star Business of t The Star Business of the Week initiative is an exciting "random draw" p

CHEHAW 105 Chehaw Park Road | 229.430.5275 www.chehaw.org

THE DANCE COMPANY, 2418 Dawson Road, Suite 3 | 229.435.2377 www.dancecompanyalbany.com

Contact: Doug Porter

Contact: Lani Milling

Sponsored by

MARK'S MELON PATCH 8580 Albany Hwy., Dawson, GA | 229.698.4750 www.marksmelonpatch.com Contact: Mark Daniel

Thank you to our additional sponsors ...

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January/February 2015 | BUSINESS

www.AlbanyGa.com

the Week

rogram for our 1000+ regional member businesses in good standing.

F&F INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY 423 West Broad 229.432.7477

SHORT & PAULK SUPPLY COMPANY 400 N. Cleveland St. | 229.431.1076 www.shortpaulk.com

Contact: Debbie Pollock

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HONEYBAKED HAM 621-C North Westover Blvd. | 229.436.4267 www.honeybakedham.com

LEEDURHAM, LLC 1604 West Third Ave. | 229.431.3036 leedurham.com

Contact: Bob Newsome

Contact: Lauren Mock

January/February 2015

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

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Albany Area Chamber 2015 Legislative Agenda Believing that Albany – Dougherty County is vital to the economic well being of Southwest Georgia and is empowered with advocating for a strong quality of life while protecting its economic competitiveness, the Chamber will promote outcomes on the following issues: Economic and Workforce Development Supports consolidation and relocation of elements/units of the Georgia National Guard to Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany which would result in the enhancement of GAANG daily operations while providing greater resiliency to the base and surrounding area.

Supports state funding for the completion of the Northwest Library renovations in Dougherty County.

Education Supports full funding for the construction of the Albany State University Multi-Purpose Academic Building, which would provide specialized needs, additional classrooms and teaching labs to facilitate English, Modern Language, Art and Music programs.

Supports full funding for Phase II of the Carlton Construction Academy at Albany Technical College which will provide additional classrooms and program labs for multiple instructional programs.

Supports funding for the completion of the student center on the campus of Darton State College, which would accommodate student government and clubs, servant leadership programs, student enrollment center, testing center complex and other vital departments and program based offices.

Supports current Common Core system standard.

Supports the reduction of austerity cuts to Public Education Contact Chris Hardy, President & CEO 225 West Broad Avenue • Albany, Georgia 31701 229.317.7173 chardy@albanyga.com 22

January/February 2015 | BUSINESS

January/February 2015

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

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Ribbon bbon Cuttings Cu uttings utting

in elevator sales and service for over 45 years!

1432 US Highway 19 South 229-436-7131 | Fax 229-436-1188 www.albanyelevator.com

CENTRAL MONITORING

THE STAFFING PEOPLE

Contact: Judy Randle 522 Pine Ave. | (229) 431-0800 www.central911.com

Contact: Tim Holley 1118-D Stuart Ave. | (229) 434-1182 thestaffingpeople.net

THRONATEESKA HERITAGE CENTER Contact: Tommy Gregors 100 W. Roosevelt Ave. | (229) 432-6955 www.heritagecenter.org

CYCLE WORLD BIKE SHOP Contact: Terrell Hoffman 2401 Dawson Rd. | (229) 435-1678 www.cycleworldbikeshop.com

Discover Albany

on a bicycle RIVERFRONT RED ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT Contact: Demetrius Love 105 West Broad Ave. | (229) 573-7092

IN THE LIGHT, LLC Contact: Cynthia Hinderliterr 2925 Ledo Rd., Suite 25 (229) 347-7028

BIKE RENTALS AVAILABLE Albany Welcome Center 112 N. Front St. 229.317.4760 www.visitalbanyga.com

RELICS TO RICHES

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Contact: Mark Embler 1410 Dawson Rd. (229) 405-2931

If your business has moved or expanded and you would like to have a Ribbon Cutting or Groundbreaking contact Mary Bickerstaff at 317.7183 or mbickerstaff@albanyga.com.

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January/February 2015 | BUSINESS

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WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS October/November

VISIT WWW.AlBANyGA.COM AND VIEW THE WEB PAGES FOR All CHAMBER MEMBERS. Albany Fish Company RESTAURANTS 1921 Dawson Road Albany, GA 31707 Contact: Glenn A. Singfield II (229) 496-1721 glennsingfield@yahoo.com Anderson Contracting & Roofing CONTRACTORS/BUILDERS/ INSPECTORS 1725 N. Washington St. Albany, GA 31701 Contact: Greg Anderson (229) 434-9497 Fax: (229) 436-9551 gregandersonacr@yahoo.com

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Dilmar Oil Company GASOLINE/OIL DISTRIBUTORS, SALES & SERVICE 307 E. Oglethorpe Blvd.

Albany, GA 31705 Contact: Matt Goodstein (229) 435-7765 Fax: (229) 435-5189 www.dilmar.com matt@dilmar.com Diva's Closet CLOTHING/ACCESSORIES 317 W. Broad Avenue Albany, GA 31701 Contact: Troychelle Gaines (229) 439-8010 divascloset317@aol.com

Blackbeards/B&B, Inc. RESTAURANTS 2209 N. Slappey Blvd.

Albany, GA 31701 Contact: Randy Carr (229) 878-6369 Fax: (229) 878-0390 randycarr11337@gmail.com

DJ’S ROOFING CONTRACTORS/BUILDERS 1106 Eager St. Albany, GA 31707 Contact: Derrick Johnson (229) 343-6141 WWW.DJROOF.COM Derrickjohnson1978@gmail.com

Consolidated Pipe and Supply Company, INC. MANUFACTURER/PROCESSOR 600 Oakland Court Leesburg, GA 31763 Contact: Rob Stryker (229) 878-0239 Fax: (229) 878-0529 www.consolidatedpipe.com rstryker@consolidatedpipe.com

Doing My Best Transport, LLC TRANSPORTATION/WAREHOUSE/ DISTRIBUTION/EQUIPMENT SA 1519 Liberty Expressway SE Albany, GA 31705 Contact: Dora Jefferson (229) 296-8058 Fax: (229) 889-1139

Dairy Queen RESTAURANTS 1804 East Oglethorpe Blvd.

Albany, GA 31705 Contact: Yamin Momin (229) 432-6339 yaminmomin@gamil.com

ECO Concepts INDUSTRIAL SERVICE/ SUPPLIES/EQUIPMENT 2008 Liberty Expressway SE Albany, GA 31705 Contact: Tim Cook (229) 439-4874

January/February 2015 | BUSINESS

Fax: (229) 439-4876 www.ecoconcepts.org info@ecoconcepts.org E-ZEE Tax Solutions DBA Jackson Hewitt ACCOUNTANTS 2019 N. Slappey Blvd.

Albany, GA 31707 Contact: Maggie Butler (229) 436-1114 Fax: (866) 685-9309 www.jacksonhewitt.com jhalbany@bellsouth.net Events with GIGI EVENT PLANNING 6021 Elliott Drive Albany, GA 31705 Contact: Brenda Ruffin (229) 449-1886 www.eventswithgigi.com eventswithgigi@gmail.com Good Life Vapor Lab SPECIALTY SHOP/ITEMS 1561 US. 19 S. Unit 7 Leesburg, GA 31763 Contact: Ryan Ellsworth (229) 496-1223 goodlifevapor.com ryan@goodlifevapor.com Hardee's of Albany East Albany RESTAURANTS 2324 E. Oglethorpe Blvd.

Albany, GA 31705 Contact: Mandy Odom (229) 888-0880 www.hardees.com Hardee's of Albany Slappey Drive RESTAURANTS 410 N. Slappey Blvd

www.AlbanyGa.com

NEW MEMBERS continued Albany, GA 31701 Contact: Rebecca White (229) 524-2083 Fax: (229) 524-2023 www.hardees.com rebecca@ponderenterprises.net Honeysuckle Hill a plus size boutique CLOTHING/ACCESSORIES, SPECIALTY SHOPS/ITEMS2925 2345 Dawson Rd., Suite B Albany, GA 31707 Contact: Amanda Bennett (229) 435-3111 abennett707@gmail.com Integrity Dynamic Investments INVESTMENTS/SECURITIES 107 Aubry Ct Leesburg, GA 31763 Contact: Jonathan Fisk (229) 733-7479 integritydynamicinvestments.com investments.com JCI General Contractors, Inc. CONTRACTORS/BUILDERS/ INSPECTORS 2535 GA Hwy 37 West Moultrie, GA 31776 Contact: Lyndy Jones (229) 985-4444 Fax: (229) 941-2275 www.jcicontractors.com ljones@jcicontractors.com Johnson Controls, Inc. PLANT MAINTENANCE SERVICES 2505 West Gordon Ave Albany, Georgia 31707 Contact: Larry McCarthy 229-420-1906 www.johnsoncontrols.com larry.a.mccarthy@jci.com Kate DeLoach INDIVIDUAL 200 Triple Creek Trail Andersonville, GA 31711 (229) 938-3180 Kate@kpdeloach.com

January/February 2015

Necco NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS 2231 Dawson Rd., Suite U Albany, GA 31707 Contact: Jen Maloney 229-299-5095 Fax: (229) 299-5102 necco.org Email: jmaloney@necco.org

Red Roof Inn HOTELS/MOTELS/ BED & BREAKFASTS 1400 Dawson Rd. Albany, GA 31707 Contact: Rich Patel (229) 888-3939 Fax: (229) 888-3939 i0388@redroof.com

Nail 1st by M & E, LLC NAIL SALON 2601 Dawson Rd. Ste. 8 Albany, GA 31707 Contact: Jessica Nguyen (229) 435-3111 ngocnguyen0621@yahoo.com

Rosenberg Men's Wear & Custom Clothier CLOTHING/ACCESSORIES 215 S. Madison St., Suite A Albany, GA 31701 Contact: Barry Taylor (229) 439-7616 Fax: (229) 255-2888 rosenbergclothier.com info@rosenbergclothier.com

Oasis Day Spa BEAUTY SALONS/ CONSULTANTS/ TANNING SALONS, DAY SPA 1410 Dawson Rd. Albany, GA 31707 Contact: Mark Embler (229) 405-2931 oasisofalbanyspa@gmail.com Plato's Closet CLOTHING/ACCESSORIES323 2524 B Dawson Rd. Albany, GA 31707 Contact: Stacey Scott (229) 435-8155 Fax: (229) 496-1776 www.platosclosetalbanyga.com staceyscott1972@hotmail.com Quail Forever, Inc. Southwest Georgia Chapter NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS 1500 Dawson Road Albany, GA 31707 Contact: Tommy Gregors (229) 435-7721 swgaquailforever.org quail@swgaquailforever.org Red Lobster RESTAURANTS 2403 North Slappey Blvd.

Albany, GA 31701 (229) 439-8857 Fax: (229) 436-5475 www.redlobster.com mlaur@redlobster.com

Ross Burnett INDIVIDUAL 522 Audubon Dr Albany, GA 31707 burnettrf1@gol.com R.R. Street & Company Inc. CHEMICAL SALES, MANUFACTURER/PROCESSOR 1706 Ledo Road Albany, GA 31707 Contact: Marc Beard (630) 416-4244 Fax: (630) 416-4150 www.4streets.com mbeard@4streets.com Salon Excellence BEAUTY SALONS/ CONSULTANTS/TANNING SALONS 412 N. Cleveland Albany, GA 31701 Contact: Katrina Burks (229) 439-7444 burks.trina@yahoo.com

New Members continued on page 28

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

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NEW MEMBERS continued Shaga Consulting & Recruiting/SCR: Staffing EMPLOYMENT/TEMPORARY /LEASING 1807 Devon Drive Albany, GA 31721 Contact: Shyam Patel (229) 420-0701 Fax: (229) 434-9101 Toll-Free: (888) 388-8849 www.globalscr.com lpatel@globalscr.com Southern Home Cleaning and Janitorial Services CLEANING/JANITORIAL SERVICE & SUPPLIES Albany, GA 31701 southernhomecleaning25 @yahoo.com Southern Threads SCREEN PRINTING, SPECIALTY SHOPS/ITEMS 2801 Old Dawson Rd., Suite 150 Albany, GA 31707 Contact: Melissa Strother (229) 496-1775 Fax: (229) 496-1776 southernthreadsalbany @gmail.com Tangela Clements INDIVIDUAL 4815 Pinto Drive Albany, GA 31705 (229) 376-0866 Venum Vapur SPECIALTY SHOP/ITEMS 2516 Dawson Rd., Suite I Albany, GA 31707 Contact: Eric Ball (229) 405-2874 www.venumvapur.com Info@venumvapur Wilder's World 4 Kids AMUSEMENT/RECREATION 2011 N. Slappey Blvd Albany, GA 31707 Contact: Trena Etheredge (229) 594-1229 www.wildersworld4kids.com info@wildersworld4kids.com

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January/February 2015 | BUSINESS

www.AlbanyGa.com

THANK YOU RENEWING MEMBERS January/February 2015

1 Key Realty LLC .........................2008 AAA Concrete Products Corporation ...............................1983 AB&T National Bank ....................1998 ACMI Inc. .....................................1993 AddTran Logistics,Inc. ..................2002 Advent Business Interiors ............2008 Advertising with Lisa, LLC............1996 AFLAC - Karen Luthman ..............2013 Agri-Business Technologies, Inc.......................1991 Albany Area Clergy Women, Inc...1997 Albany Audiology & Hearing Aid Center, LLC .........................2007 Albany Dougherty Economic Development Commission ........2008 Albany Elevator Service, Inc. .......1993 Albany Herald Publishing Company .................1975 Albany Pet Partners .....................2009 Albany Police Department............1997 Albany Scale Company................2008 Albany State University ................1975 Albany Vascular Specialist Center .......................2008 Allen's Jewelers ............................2013 Alzheimers Association ................2013 American Red CrossFlint River Chapter ....................1995 America's Best Value Inn .............1982 Andrew Tent Co. Inc......................1989 Ashley's Business Solutions.........1996 Awning Plus, Inc. ..........................2010 Barber Petroleum Equipment Company .................2010 Bennett Feed & Seed....................2011 Best Western................................1998 Best, Lou Ann, DMD.....................1996 Brett Wilson, Attorney at Law ........2013 Bridges of Southlake, The ............2008 Central Monitoring Services, Inc..............................1993 Charlie's Paint & Body, Inc. ..........2002 Chehaw ........................................1998 Chem Nut, Inc. .............................2008 Clear Channel Communications ..1993 Consolidated Loan & Mortgage Company...................1989 Cookie Shoppe, The.....................1986

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January/February 2015 | BUSINESS

Cousins Catering, Inc. ..................2005 Culbreath, John W., Dr. ................2001 Custom Interiors, Inc. ...................1991 D&D Wood Preserving, Inc...........1993 Dance Company, The...................2008 Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Albany (GA) Alumnae Chapter .....1998 Dental Partners of Southwest Georgia................2008 Diark, Inc......................................2007

WE DO COMPOUNDING

Georgia Power Company .............1975 Georgia Wing Fest........................2013 Gillespie, MD,Charles...................1999 Goodlife Vapor ..............................2013 Hanger Prosthetics and Orthotics.............................1993 HTS Construction Inc. ..................2013 Ivey's Outdoor & Farm Supply......1996 J&B Irrigation ................................2010 J. Leek Associates, Inc..................2011 James W. Buckley & Associates, Inc. ......................1981 Jim Hinton Oil Company...............1981 Jimmy Cooper ..............................2013 Kiwanis Club of Dougherty County.....................2003 Lafayette Plaza Investments.........1989 Liberty Tax Service .......................2013 LifeLink of Georgia .......................2002 Lion-Vallen Industries ...................2010 LMC-Ag, LLC ...............................2003

229-434-1414 • 610 N. Slappey Blvd.

Dougherty County Board of Education....................1975 Dougherty Glass Company ..........1975 Dukes, Edwards & Dukes Inc. ......1989 Electrical Associates of Albany, Inc. ............................1996 Evergreen Assisted Living & Century Pine .........................1998 Exchange Club Fair of Southwest GA, The ...............1992 Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Fairway Outdoor Advertising DBA Lamar Adv Farmers Home Furniture Flint RiverKeeper, Inc. GA Federal-State Inspection Services, Inc..............................1994 Georgia Health Sciences University/ Medical College of Georgia .......2010

M & G Metal Contractors..............2008 Mary Linda Cotten-Coldwell Banker Walden Kirkland .......................2007 Mathews Funeral Home ...............1993 Matrix Department, Inc. ...............2002 Mazur and Hockman, Inc. ............1993 McDonald's Restaurants ..............2013 Merry Acres Inn.............................2011 Mission Change............................2013 Mitchell Electric Membership Corporation...........1982 Modern Motion, LLC.....................2013 New Visions Community Development Corp.....................2013 Parker Music.................................2013 Parker, Edgar, DDS, PC ...............2001 Parlor Hair Fashions & Boutique, The.........................1989 Pecan City Pedalers.....................2008 PetroSouth, Inc. ............................2012 Place on the Pointe ......................2013 Pollock Heating & Cooling Company ..................1992

www.AlbanyGa.com

January/February 2015 Renuew Members Continued

Ralph Jackson Hearing Aid Service ................................2007 Robert F. McKinney ......................1993 Safety Max ...........................................

Sculley, Ladson & Cooling, LLC ...1991 Sellers Tile Distrubutors, Inc.........2001 Shutters Plus, Inc. ........................2005 Sizemore Plumbing Company, Inc. ...........................2004 Skyline Equipment Co. Inc. ..........2007 Sonny's Real Pit Bar-B-Q .............1995 Southern Industrial Electronics ....2008 Southland Appraisal Services,Inc...............................1997 Southwest Georgia SHRM/Albany Chapter ..............2013 Swain Equipment Co ....................2013 SWGA Nephrology Clinic .............1994

The Door & Window Co................2009 U S Screenprinting and Sign, LLC............................2013 U SAVE IT Pharmacy Northwest..................................2002 U.S. Army Recruiting ....................2012 Usry Consulting............................2009 Webco Electrical Construction & Design ..............2000 WelForce Administrators, LLC......2009 Wetherald Associates Plastering & Acoustics...............1993 Woodpine Way Apartments ..........2001 YMCA, Albany ..............................1979

The Centre' for Cosmetic Dentistry ....................2013

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

Potter Motor Company, Inc. ..........1993 Prescription Shoppe, The .............1993 PT Gym Personal Training............2002

• COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL 705 Canal Street www.awestenterprise.com

(229) 888-8347

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January/February 2015

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www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

29 31

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT/CEO During 2014, your Chamber was busy bringing people together to add value to your membership and increase our effectiveness in the community. With value added services such as discounts for Chamber members, we also had a huge amount of success with our annual programs and events.

Attendance at our programs and events increased allowing us to provide more educational opportunities through seminars and member services.

2015 is off to a great start and due to the efforts and successes in 2014. To begin 2014 we made changes to best communicate our interests at the state level by entering into an agreement with Usry Consulting. Public policy and advocacy is one of the core competencies that all Chambers should incorporate into their body of work. This partnership strengthened our ability to strongly communicate the items on our 2014 Legislative Agenda as well as other issues that were of importance.

What came from that decision was one of our most successful legislative years. We were happy with the outcome of the Flint River Drought Protection Act and we give special thanks to our state Chris Hardy, IOM, CCE delegation for ensuring the water resource policies reflected our best interests in relation to President/CEO economic development and agri-business.

Though it is still an ongoing discussion, great dialogue was created to move toward consolidation of elements/units of the Georgia National Guard to Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany. This effort will enhance the daily operations of the base and provide greater resiliency for the base and surrounding areas. We are still hard at work on this effort as we feel it will provide an additional resource that will make MCLB Albany’s impact to our community more valuable. Other issues that saw success in 2014 are ongoing funding for our Higher Education partners including Albany State University’s Multi-purpose Academic building, the completion of the Darton College Student Center and funding for Phase II of the Carlton Construction Academy at Albany Technical College. We hope to see more progress on these during the 2015 general session.

Another success that we believe made a dramatic impact in our community was the launching of our new Institute for Leadership Development initiative. This program consists of 13 rising stars in our community that are receiving the tools and resources to develop personally and professionally to lead our community in the future. Applications are now being accepted for the 2015-2016 program year. We encourage our members to identify those young professionals in your organization that you believe are rising stars. Call us today for more information or to receive your copy of the application.

Our successes in 2014 far exceed the amount of space given for this article, so I must conclude with our “Think Local” campaign. After more than a year of planning and discussions within our Small Business Resource Committee we officially launched “Think Local” at our 105th Annual Meeting in January. Though many of you heard about it previously, this effort will not stop with the presentation. It is vital that our residents understand the importance of doing business locally. If we are going to thrive as a community economically, it begins with keeping our dollars at home. This creates a massive domino effect of economic impact. I encourage you to view our Think Local video on our website to truly understand what we mean.

Thank you again for supporting YOUR Chamber in 2014 and we look forward to sharing more successes in 2015.

“When you put yourself in the customer’s shoes and begin your dialog from there, an immediate connection develops that stems beyond basic commerce and encourages loyalty.” Steve Mariboli.

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January/February 2015 | BUSINESS

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January/February 2015

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

33

Albany Surgical Breaks Ground For New Facility

Albany Surgical, P.C. broke ground on their new office and ambulatory surgery center. The new center will be located on Westover Road next door to CVS. This will be the first general surgery center to be constructed in south Georgia and will better serve the needs of patients in the region. The

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January/February 2015 | BUSINESS

new facility will contain expanded clinical practice space, as well as a state licensed two operating room outpatient surgical suite. The practice is investing more than $6 million in the 25,000 square foot facilty. It will take approximately 11 months to build. Congratulations!

www.AlbanyGa.com

PRINCE OF ALBANY

2701 Ledo Road, Albany 229-432-6271 PrinceAutoAlbany.com

Deerfield-Windsor School A College Preparatory School • College Preparatory Academics • Smaller Class Sizes • Fine arts Instruction Beginning in Pre-K • Foreign Language Beginning in Pre-K • AP Classes Beginning in 10th Grade • Opportunities in Athletics and Fine Arts Excellence in Academics-Arts-Athletics and Service 2500 Nottingham Way • www.deerfieldwindsor.com • 229-435-1301

Albany Communications, Inc. 3303 Gillionville Road Albany, Georgia 31721 SOLUTIONS Radio Solutions Channel Partner

Phone: 229-432-9301 Fax: 229-436-3189 1-800-226-9301

www.albanygacomm.com

January/February 2015

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

35

2

2014 Strive Thrive An 2014 Jane Willson Family of the Year Award On December 11, 2014, during the Chamber Strive2Thrive (S2T) Rise N Shine breakfast, Patecia Simmons was awarded the Jane Willson Family of the Year Award. This award recognizes the Team Leader who has exemplified outstanding leadership, shown commitment to the program through active participation, and has given back to the community through volunteerism.

Prior to enrolling into Strive2Thrive (S2T), Ms. Simmons lost her job and apartment. This unfortunate set back forced her to move back in with her mother. During this time, she obtained several work at home jobs, but still remained underemployed. Given the hardships she faced, Patecia decided to enroll in S2T. Through her motivation to get back on the road to self-sufficiency, she acted upon a job lead provided by her S2T Coach, and attended a Department of Family and Children Services (DFACS) job fair at Albany Technical College. She was hired on the spot and is currently employed with DFACS as a Call Center Representative. Additionally, through the S2T partnership with the City of Albany TBRA program, Ms. Simmons was able to move out of her mother’s home into a beautiful apartment in NW Albany. Patecia has paid off some of her small debts, established a 500.00 emergency fund and continues to save monthly. Through the YMCA Health/Wellness partnership with S2T, Ms. Simmons and her son acquired a Helping Hands membership. This membership has not only been beneficial for health and wellness, but has assisted in motivating her son to improve his grades through participation in Y sports activities.

Ms. Simmons next steps include re-enrollment into Albany Technical College and homeownership. She is just one of the many examples of growth and success through community engagement and empowerment.

Our Progress EMPLOYMENT • Gainfully Employed - 88% (11 new jobs) • Retention Rate - 71% (after six (6) months)

EDUCATION • Increased Educational Enrollment - 56%

INCREASE IN INCOME • 6 months - 17% • 12 months - 44%

SAVINGS • New/Opened Savings Accounts - 67%

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www.AlbanyGa.com

nnual Report Director’s Message 2014 was a year of tremendous change and transition for Strive2Thrive, despite the changes we have not only persevered but have exceeded our goals. I have been with the program since its inception in 2009.

During which time, I served as a volunteer, consultant, coach and now Executive Director. During these five years I’ve witnessed what amazing results can happen when a community unites beyond race, income, and across class lines.

Eradicating poverty extends beyond Alvita Swain providing resources; it also involves eradicating faulty belief systems and impoverished mindsets. The move from poverty to self-sufficiency is not a cookie cutter process, but takes patience and the realization that change is an inside job.

Community engagement is one of the primary tools needed to insure that Strive2Thrive remains a viable part of eradicating poverty in Dougherty County. Often times “poverty” is viewed from a global perspective, when in reality it is a “squatter in our own backyard.”

Our goal in 2015 is to increase community engagement and our capacity to serve more families. With the help of this community, we can move towards creating positive trans-generational legacies, by ending the cycle of poverty in the lives of those we serve.

Strive2Thrive salutes all of our generous donors, partners, volunteers and the community. Without you the results you see would not be possible. Together we can continue to empower Dougherty County families who live in poverty to move successfully towards self sufficiency, by providing a “HAND UP and not a HAND OUT!”

By the Numbers Number Served in Phase I Phase I: Getting Ahead (2 Classes) Families accepted into Phase II

24 10

Number Served in Phase II Families Served in Phase II 30 Individuals ( including children) 78

Overall Number Served in Phase I & II Families Served in 2014 Individuals served in 2014

44 92

Phase II Head of Household Demographics Nationality African American Caucasian 2

28

Gender Female 26 Male 4

Marital Status Single 26 Married 4

TRANSPORTATION • Reliable Transportation - 60% • Obtained New Reliable Transportation - 4 • Paid Off Vehicles - 2

HOUSING • Safe / Affordable Housing - 100% • Obtained Housing through S2T/ City of Albany TBRA Partnership- 4 • Obtained Housing through S2T/Albany Housing Authority Partnership - 2

Age 18 – 24 25 – 29 30 – 34 35 – 39 40 – 44 45 – 49 50 +

4 6 11 3 2 2 2

Special Category HEALTH AND WELLNESS • Helping Hands Memberships through S2T/ Albany Area YMCA Partnership - 14 (includes 6 adults/4 children)

January/February 2015

Disabilities

3

www.strive2thrive.org

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37

Strive2Thrive Rise N Shine Breakfast Strive2Thrive proudly announced that even though they have been going through tremendous change and transition they exceeded their goals for the year. Nakosha Dillard, who spoke at the breakfast, has been a participant with Strive2Thrive since 2009. Dillard stated that Strive2Thrive changed her life. She attained her bachelor’s degree at Albany State University, and is now on course for a masters degree.

She’s even authored a book entitled “Surviving College While Raising a Toddler. Also at the breakfast, Strive 2 Thrive Team Leader Patecia Simmons received the annual Jane Willson Family of the Year Award for her commitment to the program and her “giving back” through volunteerism. Thank you to our sponsors for making this breakfast possible: Albany State University and Procter & Gamble.

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January/February 2015 | BUSINESS

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