January February 2014 Business Magazine

Jim Deal, Chairman of the Board, rolling into 2014 by proactively “Growing through Change”

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LRA & The Albany Museum of Art create a masterpiece.

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B U S IN E SS Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Magazine

President/CEO Editor Chris Hardy, IOM, CCE Chair Jim Deal Chair-Elect Ron Wallace Director of Communications Rachelle Bitterman Printing Boyd Brothers 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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January/February 2014 | BUSINESS

www.AlbanyGa.com

J A n u A R y/ F E B R u A R y 2 0 1 4

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C O N T E N T S

Comments from the 2013 Chair of the Board

07 Networking Calendar

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Proudly Introducing Our New Board Members for 2014

Albany Convention & Visitors Bureau 2013 Annual Report

08 Let’s Grow Together 2013 Looking Back at 2013

18 Star Business of the Week

VO lu M E 1 3

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2014 Legislative Agenda

Business After Hours - Chehaw BreakAway Cycles

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Message From the President/CEO

Chamber Board Retreat Was A Great Success

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32

Welcome to Our New Members

Thank You Renewing Members

Military Affairs Christmas Party

Legislative Affairs Rise N Shine Breakfast

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Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Institute

Mark Your Calendar for Leadercast 2014

33 Keeping Your Business Safe Lunch & Learn

nuMBER 5

12 2014 Executive Committee 2014 Board of Directors

24 Ribbon Cuttings

34 Strive2Thrive Annual Report

ABOUT THE COVER Jim Deal, 2014 chairman of the board, has great plans for this coming year. He says it is time for us to start “growing through change.” Read his message on page 6 and see how he wants to move Albany forward.

Design by Rachelle Bitterman Photography by Todd Stone

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 2014

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

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COMMENTS FROM THE 2014 CHAIRMAN I am sincerely honored to serve as your Chairman for 2014! I would like to thank Cynthia George for her leadership as Past Chairman, and I look forward to working with her in the future. This past year has been a good one for Albany as we have seen significant retail growth throughout the area and the Georgia Department of Labor announced that Metro Albany’s unemployment rate has hit its lowest rate since March 2009.

This positive news should make us feel better about ourselves and where we live. Albany has had some setbacks in the last few years, but it’s time for us to start “Growing through Change”, and that means a change in attitude! We can’t undo the past, but we can focus on the future with a positive attitude! Let’s all be grateful for what we do have and not worry as much about what we don’t have!

We need to make an effort to get ourselves and our Chamber off to a happier and healthier New Year! Enjoy our fantastic weather and start an exercise program, and this will definitely improve both your health and your attitude.

Jim Deal Albany Communications I want the Chamber to be purpose driven so that we can achieve goals that will contribute to the success of our members and the entire Community! Those goals are: Economic, Social, Cultural, and Quality of Life. The Chamber is like an economic tree that needs nourishment to survive! We all need to act as Ambassadors to Promote, Educate and Advocate for the Albany Area.

At our recent Board Retreat we focused on a New Mission Statement …Growing Member Businesses to create a Thriving Community…and our Vision should always be Proactive, Progressive, and Pro Business! Let’s take charge of our lives and take ownership in Albany if; you see something that needs to be done, then Just Do It!!

We need your ideas and support on one or more of our active committees lead by the following: Education/Ron Wallace; Legislative Affairs/Cynthia George; Tourism/Bobby McKinney; Small Business/Jenny Savelle; Leadership Development/Ryan Inlow; Allies/Pam Jackson; and a brand new and much needed committee, Membership/Jim Wilcox.

I believe that 2014 will be a very good year for Albany! We have a dynamic President in Chris Hardy and he has a very talented staff that is ready to work for all of you our valued members. Let us all work together with Character, Integrity, and Commitment to build a stronger Chamber and Business Community.

Wishing you much happiness in the New Year and remember that an unexpected kindness is the most powerful and least costly form of true Leadership

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MARK YOUR CALENDAR MARCH 6 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 5:00pm-7:00pm Prince Automotive 2701 Ledo Road Sponsored by Prince Automotive Group

APRIL 16 INDUSTRY APPRECIATION RISE N SHINE Merry Acres Inn & Event Center 7:30am-8:00am Coffee & Networking 8:00am Breakfast Sponsored by Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission

APRIL 17 INDUSTRY APPRECIATION BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 5:00pm-7:00pm Doublegate Country Club Sponsored by Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission

MAY 9 LEADERCAST More details coming!

MAY 12-16 SMALL BUSINESS WEEK More details coming!

January/February 2014

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

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Let’s Grow Together

Looking back at 2013 •Held Salty Sandbagger Marine Base/ Business Community Golf Tournament •Collected hundreds of items to be given to new doctors entering Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital’s Residency program.

• Held three lunch and learns during Small Business Appreciation Week: Business Services Offered by the Department of Labor, Employment Law for the Small Business, Free Web Tools & Strategies • Awarded Small Business of the Year to A. West Enterprise during the Celebrate Small Business Gala.

• Hosted annual Military Affairs Christmas Social.

• Organized the Star Business Star Teacher honor luncheon.

• Held 5 Rise N Shine breakfasts.

• Held 8 Business after Hours.

• Held an intense three-day membership campaign entitled “ Lets Grow Together” and grew the membership by 10%.

• Volunteer Ambassadors participated in 33 ribbon cuttings and three groundbreaking ceremonies.

• Held 103rd Annual Meeting featuring a dynamic key note speaker while recognizing our retiring Board members and honoring the Lifetime Service Award, Ambassador of the Year and Non-Profit of the Year.

• Provided representation at the GA Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Dinner and Eggs & Issues Breakfast with Chamber and local business leaders.

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

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

• Grew Chamber Facebook page from 850 fans to more than 1200.

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

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•Begin in January 2013, weekly Chamber Chat with WFXL Fox-31 providing updates on Chamber, CVB and community programs and events.

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

• Welcomed Haryl Dabney and Erin Whatley as Emerge Albany Committee Co-Chairs.

• Hosted Emerge Kick-Off Mixer at the Manor House Pub at Merry Acres Inn.

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

• Held monthly Lunch and Learns featuring several speakers including Mayor Dorothy Hubbard and County Commission Chair Jeff Sinyard, Chris Hardy, Albany Area Chamber of Commerce; Ausha Jackson, Strive2Thrive; Rev. Garrett Andrew, First Presbyterian Church; David Wilson, Habitat for Humanity; Debbie Finney, UGA Small Business Development Center.

• Hosted welcome receptions for Major General John Broadmeadow, Commanding General of MCLB and Dr.Paul Jones, Darton College new Interim President.

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

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

• Hosted a Professional Development Seminar focusing on Personal and Professional Financial Management.

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

• Partnered with the Hilton Garden Inn and the Albany Civil Rights Institute to hold a successful drive through Toys for Tots collection.

• Promoted and attended Hammer Jam, an event to benefit Habitat for Humanity.

• Emerge Albany was interviewed on the Good Day Show several times.

• Published a special issue of “Business Magazine” entitled “Website 101” with step by step instructions on how to get the most out of the Albany Area Chamber new website and member portal.

• Recruited future young professionals at Albany State University.

• Held a raffle during the Small Business Appreciation Gala where $1,000 was given to the winning ticket held and a portion of the proceeds were given to the Liberty House, the Chamber’s 2013 Non-Profit of the Year.

New in 2013 • Launched a new user friendly website and new logo

• Designed and formulated the 2014 Legislative Agenda advocating on issues effecting Albany / Dougherty County.

Emerging leaders • Welcomed Kirt Phillips as Vice Chair, representing Emerge Albany on the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee.

January/February 2014

• Held Annual Holiday Party at 340 Creative Group.

• Changed the Small Business Rise N Shine breakfast to an evening Gala.

• Added 3 new members to the Chamber and CVB staff, including a new position (Member Relations Coordinator).

• Hosted the Chick-Fil A Leadercast giving members the opportunity to participate in one of the most prestigious leadership conferences offered.

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

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ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2014 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 & Workforce Development Supports the most favorable water resource policies that best safeguard economic development and agri-business in Southwest Georgia.

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.

Higher Education Supports full funding for the construction of the Albany State University Language, Performing and Visual Arts Center, which would provide specialized need, additional classrooms, teaching labs, lecture and performance hall, computer labs and art studios.

Passion for LEARNING

Supports full funding for Phase II of the Carlton Construction Academy at Albany Technical College which has been identified as the number one capital project by the State Board of Directors of the Technical College System of Georgia.

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

Health & Wellness Supports the increase of state funding for health care reimbursements to local health care providers.

Committment to

SOCIALRESPONSIBILITY

DEERFIELD-WINDSOR SCHOOL

Testing Date & Parent Reception

Open House

Friday, March 21st, 2014 Monday, April 14th, 2014 8:30-10:00 Middle & Upper Campus Way 2500 Nottingham Wa Lower Campus 1733 Beattie Road

Sense of

PERSONALINTEGRITY

K4-T TWELFTH GRADE

Celebrating 50 years in the Albany Community!

Saturday, Febua ary 8th, 2014 8:30am

For more informattion conatct Ky Kyle Belcher at (229)435-1301 ext. 254 or kkyyle.belcher@deerfieldwindsor.com 2500 Nottinggham m Wa Way | Albany, GA | www.deerfieldwindsor.com

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January/February 2014 | BUSINESS

www.AlbanyGa.com

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Chehaw & BreakAway Cycles

Once again Chehaw and BreakAway Cycles teamed up to sponsor the November Business After Hours. More than 100 people enjoyed great food and networking.

Melissa Martin with the Flint RiverQuarium, was the lucky winner of the $100 jackkpot.

January/February 2014

T Think hink Alw Alway ay Alban Albany y Firs Firstt www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

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2014 Executive Committee Albany Area Chamber of Commerce

Ron Wallace Chairman-Elect Vice Chair Education

Jim Deal Chairman Albany Communications

Tommy Clark Treasurer HeritageBank of the South

Jacobs Technology

Cynthia George Past Chairman Vice Chair Legislative Affairs Artesian Consulting, LLC

Bobby McKinney Vice Chair Tourism Division

Jenny Seville Vice Chair Small Business Resource Division

Jim Wilcox Vice Chair Membership Division

Ryan Inlow Vice Chair Leadership Development

Jay Smith Vice Chair Economic Development

WALB

Mauldin & Jenkins CPA

Georgia Power

Pamela Jackson Vice Chair Allies Division MCLB Albany

Julian Price

Ed Newsome

Gary Sanders

Albany Air Conditioning & Heating Company

Albany Baptist Minister's Conference

Bishop Clean Care

2014 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Vicki Barnhill, Mazur & Hockman Ken Boler, Albany Herald Publishing Co. MGen. John Broadmeadow, Marine Corps Logistics Command Richard Crowdis, Dougherty County Administrator Col. Don Davis, MCLB Albany Dr. Arthur Dunning, Albany State University Michael Harris, McDonald's Restaurants Bo Henry, Stewbos Mark Holloway, Modern Gas Company Brenda Holloway, WFXL-TV - Fox 31

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January/February 2014 | BUSINESS

Dorothy Hubbard, Mayor, City of Albany Leslie Hudson, Miller Coors Dr. Paul Jones, Darton State College Patricia King, Suntrust Chandu Kuntawala Michael Madden, Marine Corps Logistics Command Tammy McCrary, Comnet Technical Solutions Cal McMillan, Ameris Bank Kent Morrison, MCLB Albany Dr. David Mosely, Superintendent of DCSS

Dr. Anthony Parker, Albany Technical College Kirt Phillips, Merrill Lynch Matt Rushton, AB&T National Bank Jay Sharpe, U-Save it Pharmacy Bridges Sinyard, Adams Exterminators Tom Sullivan, Phoebe Putney Hospital James Taylor, City Manager Scott Tomlinson, Flint Community Bank Fidel Torres, Procter & Gamble Callie Hughey Walker, Hughey & Neuman Jeff Wright, Draffin & Tucker CPAs

www.AlbanyGa.com

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Our New Board Members for 2014 Vicki Barnhill is the co-owner of Mazur and Hockman. Vicki has a BS in Human Development and Family Studies from Lander University. She is co-founder of The Bread House and Granary, chairman of the Regional (South Georgia ) RNC and a partner in Tolaro Global, Cashew Processiong Operations in Benin, West Africa. Vicki is a member of the Charity League of Albany and a sustainer in the Junior League of Albany. She has been married for 35 years to Richard Barnhill, a fifth generation Albanian. They have three children.

Mark Holloway was born and raised in Albany. He graduated from Albany High School in 1984. Mark received a marketing deress from Georgia Southwestern. He is currently president of Modern Gas where he has worked since 1990. Mark is a member of The Exchange Club of Albany, Homebuilder Association of Albany & Southwest Georgia, and Porterfield United Methodist Church.

Mark is married to Glenda Davis Holloway. They have two children, Jill and Alex.

Ken Bowler is the general sales manager at The Albany Herald and AlbanyHerald.com. Ken, a graduate of Paine College, is retired from the United States Air Force. He has worked for Florida Today, Knight Ridder News, Gannett/USA Today, Savannah Morning News/Morris and the Gwinnett Daily Post/SCNI before joining the Herald. Ken has been married for 34 years. He and his wife Tammy have two daughters, MSgt Tamika Boler, and Megan Boler who is an attorney.

Tammy McCrary is CEO of ComNet Technical Solutions. Tammy holds a Computer Science Degree and has over 25 years’ experience working in the IT Field. She is a Certified Netware Engineer and holds numerous certifications from Microsoft, IBM, Cisco and other technology companies. Tammy teaches Microsoft Office desktop applications and other IT specific courses, but her expertise lies in curriculum development and instructional design, specifically web-based training.

Mike Harris is the current owner/operator of four McDonald’s Restaurants located in Albany and an adjunct professor at Albany State University. Mike began his career with McDonald’s Corporation in 1977. He is a graduate of Grinnell College, Grinnell Iowa with a degree in Economics. He attended the University of Phoenix Online and attained his MBA degree. He also completed his Post Graduate Requirements and was awarded a DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) degree from the University of Phoenix.

William “Bo” T. Henry Jr. is the son of William T. and Ruth Henry. Bo graduated from Deerfield Windsor and Darton College. He is co-owner of Stewbos Restaurant Group which includes: Harvest Moon, The Catch and Henry Campbell’s, In 2011 the group acquired Merry Acres Inn & Event Center. Bo is married to Katherine Whiting and has a son, William “Hank” T. Henry, III. Bo has ‘The Bo Henry Band’ that has toured and recorded for about 16 years.He also has a partnership in a local farm and hunting preserve.

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Matt Rushton is vice president, Commercial Banking at AB&T. Matt is an Albany native. He has a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics from the University of Georgia. He is an Ambassador for Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, on the Headmaster’s Council at Deerfield-Windsor School, and on the Church Council for First United Methodist Church. He volunteers for the Flint RiverQuarium and Chehaw Wild Animal Park and is one of Southwest Georgia’s “40 Under 40.” He is a recent graduate of the Georgia Academy of Economic Development.

Gary Sanders is a native of Thomas County, Georgia. Gary has his Bachelors Degree of Science from Troy University in psychology and is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Exceptional Education.

He is pastor of First Mount Olive M.B. Church, president of the Albany Baptist Ministers Conference, Moderator Coordinator of the Second District of the General Missionaary Baptist Convention of Georgia and services on the board of economic and development of the City of Albany. Gary is married to Rhonda.

They have three children, Brittani, Gary, Jr., and Garrison.

www.AlbanyGa.com

Jay Sharpe is the vice president of public relations for U-Save-It Pharmacies and works primarily at U-Save-It Northwest.

Jay is married to Heather Parr Sharpe and they have one son, Landon. Jay received his degree in Business Management from Valdosta State University. He is a member of the Albany Rotary Club, on the Board of Deacons of Gillionville Baptist Church, the Phoebe Foundation Board, Darton State College Foundation and the Albany Symphony Orchestra Board. He volunteers for many local charities and organizations.

Callie Hughey Walker is a native of Albany, Georgia. She received her bachelor’s degree from The University of Georgia and her Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Georgia Southwestern University. Callie is a third generation real estate broker with her family’s real estate firm, Hughey & Neuman, Inc. Specializing in residential and commercial Real Estate, her passion for the Albany/Dougherty community is evident and she strives to “sell” Albany everyday!

Scott Tomlinson is president, CEO, organizing board, and current board member of Flint Community Bank. Scott has a BBA from Valdosta State College.

He is Chairman of the Board of Albany Community Together, a member of the EDC Recruitment Task Force Committee, on the board of directors for the Community Bankers Association of Georgia, United Way and numerous other positions. Scott is Associate Pastor of Forrester Community Church. He has been married to Patti for 32 years. They five children, two grandchildren, and two more on the way!

Jeff Wright is a graduate of Auburn University and a partner in Draffin & Tucker, LLP's healthcare practice. Jeff currently serves as the firm’s Managing Partner. He is licensed to practice public accounting services in Georgia, Florida, and Alabama. He is a member of the American Institute of CPAs, the Georgia Society of CPAs, the Healthcare Financial Management Association, the Albany Rotary Club and a graduate of Leadership Albany. Jeff is married to Belinda. They have two children, Taylor (15) and Seth (13).

January/February 2014

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

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A LB AN Y CO N VE NT I O N & V I S I TO R S BU RE A U

2013 Annual Report • Partnered with the AlbanyDougherthy EDC to host the Georgia International VIP tour. The whirl wind tour consisted of 26 Consuls General, Consuls, Honorary Consuls and Trade Commissioners • Sponsored the Tour of Southern Rural Vistas bike ride from Tallahassee April 20-21, 2013. The 240 cyclists ended this years ride at Chehaw.

• Awarded the Partner of the Year Award by the Downtown Sertoma Club • Featured in CoventionSouth Magazine as one of the top 12 Recreational Heavens for groups in the south.

• Hosted the Georgia Firefighters and Fire Chiefs Conference Sept 11-13 with over 400 attendees.

• Hosted our annual Family Reunion Workshop on Saturday, February 9 at the Flint RiverQuarium. It was a success with 27 attendees and 3 vendors. Guest speaker Jeff Mills presented “How to plan a family reunion from A to Z”.

• Hosted several events during National Travel and Tourism Week.

We kicked the week off with an Appreciation Luncheon for our partners, proclamation signing with the Mayor, and on Saturday we hosted a day of tours for the community. The tours were a huge success, with over 60 participants.

• Hosted the first of five Southeast Regional Race Series May 25-26, 2013. Albany’s SB&T Bike Race represented Georgia; we share the series with Montgomery, Knoxville, Ashville, and Greenville. We had over 500 participants for the full weekend.

• Albany was the host site for Paddle Georgia June 14-18, 2013. We had over 350 canoe/kayak visitors on the Flint River, the CVB served Krispy Kreme doughnuts and lemonade at one of their break sites.

• “Zoom in on Albany” photo contest added some great photos to our data base. Rick Osborne from Stone Mountain, GA. with his Train Trestle photo was the contest winner.

• Hosted a FAM tour for the local front line attraction employees from Chehaw, Civil Rights, Flint RiverQuarium, Thronateeska, and Museum of Art. We organized this tour to educate staff on cross promoting each other and tourism as a whole in Albany and Dougherty County.

• Hosted the Bobby Deen book signing with over 200 books sold.

• Organized and hosted a joint press conference for ASU homecoming complete with proclamation from both the city and county. CVB staff decorated downtown with blue and gold garland, bows, and painted the streets with Ram heads.

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

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LOGOS PLUS, INC. 2807 Old Dawson Road | 229.435.0000 www.logosplus.com

Contact: Roger McDaniel

Contact: Earle Spurlock

Sponsored by

ALBANY ELECTRIC, INC. 798 21st Avenue | 229.432.7345 www.metropower.com Contact: Ronnie Hinson

Thank you to our additional sponsors ...

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January/February 2014 | BUSINESS

www.AlbanyGa.com

the Week

rogram for our 1200+ regional member businesses in good standing.

SLATER H. KING CENTER 400 Highland Ave. 229.439.9686

NEOS TECHNOLOGIES 2231 Dawson Rd., Suite J | 229.888.2377 www.neostechnologies.com

Contact: Ms. Gibson, Sammie Pringle

Contact: Chris Saunders

PT GYM PERSONAL TRAINING 1420 Dawson Road | 229.436.7117 www.ptgym.com

VANSANT & CORRIERE, LLC 128 South Washington St. 229.883.6800

Contact: Perry Buchanan

Contact: Alfred Corriere & John Vansant

January/February 2014

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

19

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT/CEO 2013 has passed us by and 2014 is now our focus. Let me take a moment to provide an extremely brief synopsis of our successes this past year, though to list them all would require this entire magazine. At the beginning of 2013 Your Chamber was faced with a sense of reidentification of who we are and what our role is in this community. We knew we needed to step up our game in the best interests of our organization, our membership and our community.

Chris Hardy, IOM, CCE President/CEO

Albany / Dougherty County experienced significant retail growth in 2013 which provided much needed jobs while contributing to a struggling tax base. We are all familiar with the fact that market and industries are becoming more competitive and global in nature. Though strangely enough, enduring competitive advantages in a global economy lie increasingly in a sense of community – knowledge, relationships, and motivations that distant rivals just can’t match. If you believe this to be true as I do, our Chamber should be uniquely positioned to create and foster a regional business climate that increases knowledge and builds upon these distinct relationships.

We believe that one of the ways forward is to make it easier for our members to make the choice of becoming tech savvy and knowledge intense through the use of enabling technology. Earlier this year with the assistance of Chamber’s Small Business Resource Committee, we made a significant investment by upgrading our on-line membership database to give small businesses an opportunity to promote themselves more extensively through our member portal. Though we are still educating our Small Business members on how to best utilize the system, those that have are already experiencing the benefits.

In 2011 the Chamber’s Area Board of Directors implemented a 5 year strategic plan that laid the groundwork for how to move our organization toward the future. We have a few years left on that plan though we have accomplished many goals set forth, while at the same time have amended the plan based on how we have changed as an organization to best meet the needs of our membership. This will always be a work in progress, but I truly believe we are on the right track. One of the ways we made progress was holding a 3 day membership campaign which increased our member base by over 10%.

Though that alone is a huge accomplishment, just as important was the introduction of new volunteers to the Chamber for which we are extremely grateful.

The Albany Area Chamber continues to remain active with the Southwest Georgia Chamber Council which represents 17 Chambers of Commerce across our region. We added three new employees to our organization as well and they are already exceeding our expectations. Courtney Spencer came to the Chamber from the Convention and Visitors Bureau as our new Member Relations Coordinator. Cassandra Mathis joined our team as our new Information Specialist and J.D. Sumner joined

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January/February 2014 | BUSINESS

our CVB staff as the new Sales Manager. We look forward to more great things from them in 2014.

Chamber leadership continues to play a strong role in Economic Development while being heavily represented on the newly formed Retention, Renewal and Recruitment Task Force’s for the Economic Development Commission while also having valuable representation on the Commission’s Board of Directors. We experienced record attendance with Chamber hosted programs and events and we hope you will help us to continue that this year.

Last but certainly not least is the creation of “Leadership Institute.� A leadership development program that will be managed by our Leadership Development Committee, and one that will change the game on how we train and educate young professionals to become our future business leaders. This is one of the new programs we are most excited about as the curriculum has been designed by our members for our members and it doesn’t get much better than that.

In conclusion, Your Chamber should be the brand that gives people an easy way to participate in something larger than themselves and their respective organizations. It will give them an opportunity to shape the future of our business community and to realize the potential we all know exists. Your Chamber should provide a sense of community and purpose through a unified voice involving mutual interests and opportunities and that is exactly what we will do.

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January/February 2014

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

21

CHAMBER BOARD RETREAT WAS A GREAT SUCCESS The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce held a very informative and successful board retreat December 4 at the Chehaw Education Center. A big thank you goes to Jimmy Lindsey with AB&T for facilitating the retreat. One of the major items that came out of the retreat was a new mission statement – “Growing member businesses to create a thriving community.”

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January/February 2014 | BUSINESS

You may not think so - but you are. Because you care about education. You care about your child’s future. You care about their character and who is investing in them. And so do we. That’s why we’re here. At Sherwood Christian Academy, your child will be prepared for the world they are entering – equipped in mind, body, and spirit.

We aspire to grow students who strive for excellence in all things as they become Christlike leaders in their homes, churches, workplaces, and communities. We want to prepare your child to not simply survive the world, but to change it. This is what is important to us. And we know it is important to you. We are Sherwood. And so are you.

SCAeagles.com • Lower Campus: 2200 Stuart Ave. 229-888-2277 • Upper Campus: 1418 Old Pretoria Rd. 229-883-5677 • Albany, GA

January/February 2014

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

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Ribbon bbon Cuttings Cu uttings utting

in elevator sales and service for over 45 years!

KAY FULLER LIGHTING

WILD FLOUR

Contact: Kay Fuller 2351 Lake Park Drive (229) 888-0752

Contact: Sarah Edmonds 2206 Dawson Road (229) 405-2294

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

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CROWE’S

GINKGO, LLC

Parent company of U Save It Pharmacy Contact: Fred Sharpe 1504 US Hwy. 19, Leesburg

Contact: Colleen Sullivan 2206 - C Dawson Road (229) 405-2660

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

ALBANY UROLOGY CLINIC

JUICE BOX AT NATURES CURE

Contact: Michael Dukes 2400 Osler Ct (229) 883-1503 albanyurologyclinic.com

Contact: Jami Jones 2818 Old Dawson Road, Suite 5 (229) 446-0505 naturescureonline.com

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 2014 | BUSINESS

www.AlbanyGa.com

WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS December/January

VISIT WWW.AlBAnyGA.COM AnD VIEW THE WEB pAGES FOR All CHAMBER MEMBERS. Ridgeway Mechanical PLUMBING

KG Productions Event Planning EVENT PLANNING

X-tratainment, Inc. MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT

1490 Wesley Parkway NW Atlanta, GA 30327 (770) 354-4594 ridgewaymechanical.com alan@ridgewaymechanical.com

1216 Dawson Road Suite 211 Albany, GA 31707 (229) 669-0656 productionskg@ymail.com

629 Locket Station Albany, GA 31721 (229) 431-3157 www.mississippiblindboys.com tswain@x-tratainmentinc.com

Southwest Georgia SHRM/Albany Chapter NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS 417 3rd Avenue Albany, GA 31702 (229) 312-4384 Fax: (229) 312-1060 albanyga.shrm.org

River Pointe Golf Course COUNTRY CLUBS/GOLF COURSES 801 River Point Drive Albany, GA 31701-1325 (229) 883-4885 Fax: (229) 883-0022 riverpointegolfcourse.com jmiller@browngolf.net

Yusen Logistics LOGISTICS MANAGEMENT 2488 Spring Vale Road Jacksonville, FL 32246 (904) 485-1893 (888) 777-9955 ext 1893 Fax: (904) 612-6035 www.us.yusen-logistics.com laura.heberlie@us.yusen-logistics.com

Colonial Storage Center MOVING/STORAGE/ STORAGE TRAILERS

Bo Williams and Associates ACCOUNTANTS, INSURANCE & INSURANCE ADJUSTERS

1604 Camp Lane Albany, GA 31707 (229) 435-7958 Fax: (229) 435-7958 securcare.com

849 W. Broad Ave Albany, GA 31701 (229) 883-2636 Fax: (229) 439-2944

Drug and Alcohol Compliance DRUG SCREENING

Our Daily Bread RESTAURANTS

1105 10 Ave Ste 2 Albany, Georgia 31707 (229) 881 5661 drugandalcoholcompliance.com q.butler@qmtesting.com

106 N. Washington Street Albany, GA 31701 (229) 436-3725 ourdailybread5@yahoo.com

The Merry Fox Agency CONSULTANTS 211 North Jefferson Street Suite No. 13 Albany, GA 31701 (229) 881-5970 marynewcomb@earthlink.net

Cracker Barrel RESTAURANTS

Party Plus Wedding / Dangerous Entertainment SPECIALTY SHOPS/ITEMS, MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT, WEDDING SERVICES 2401 Dawson Road, Suite S Albany, GA 31707 (229) 878-1378 Fax: (229) 878-3436 dpreeves@hotmail.com

1114 North Westover Blvd Albany, GA 31707 229) 420-0058 Fax: (229) 420-0545 crackerbarrel.com scerrone1138@msn.com

The Small Business Resource Committee needs you...

The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce is developing a “Think local” campaign through the Small Business Resource Committee and needs your input! If this is something you are interested in please contact Mary Bickerstaff at 317-7183 or mbickerstaff@albanyga.com.

Other opportunities for committee involvement can be found on our website at www.albanyga.com

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January/February 2014 | BUSINESS

www.AlbanyGa.com

THANK YOU RENEWING MEMBERS november/December

AAA Concrete Products Corporation ...............................1983 AB&T National Bank ....................1998 AddTran Logistics,Inc...................2002 Advent Business Interiors ............2008 Advertising with Lisa, LLC ...........1996 Albany Area Hand Therapy..........2006 Albany Audiology & Hearing Aid Center, LLC ..............................2006 Albany Dougherty Economic Development Com ....................2008 Albany Elevator Service, Inc. .......1993 Albany Herald Publishing Company ..................................1975 Albany Pet Partners.....................2009 Albany Police Department ...........1997 Albany Scale Company ...............2008 Albany Winnelson Company ........1983 American Red Cross-Flint River Chapter .....................................1995 Ashley's Business Solutions ........1996 Awning Plus, Inc. .........................1996 B & B Rental Agency ...................1975 Barber Petroleum Equipment Company...................................2010 .............................................................

Berney's Tire Service ...................2012 Best, Lou Ann, DMD ....................1996 Blacks in Government (BIG) ........1995 Booz Allen Hamilton ....................2007 Bridges of Southlake, The ...........2008 Buffalo Rock Company.................1976 Burkart, Leland ............................1986 C. A. Brown Construction Co. Inc. 2012 Central Monitoring Services, Inc. ............................1993 Charlie's Paint & Body, Inc...........2002 Chem Nut, Inc..............................2008 Consolidated Loan & Mortgage Company .................................1989 Cookie Shoppe, The ....................1986 Cooper Company.........................2007 Cousins Catering, Inc. .................2005 Crawford & Sons Oil Co., Inc. ......2000 Culbreath, John W., Dr. ................2001 Custom Interiors, Inc....................1991 D&D Wood Preserving, Inc. .........1993 Delta Sigma Theta Sorority,Inc. Albany (GA) Alumnae Chapter..1998 28

January/February 2014 | BUSINESS

Dental Partners of Southwest Georgia.....................................2008 Dialysis Clinic, Inc. .......................1976 Diark, Inc. ....................................2007 DOCO Department of Family & Children Services ....................1990 Dougherty Glass Company .........1975 Dukes, Edwards & Dukes Inc.......1989 Econo-Lodge Inn & Suites ...........1994 ELECTRICAL ASSOCIATES of Albany, Inc. ...........................1996 Evergreen Assisted Living & Century Pine.............................1998 Exchange Club Fair of Southwest GA, The...................1992

WE DO COMPOUNDING

Ivey's Outdoor & Farm Supply .....1996 J. Leek Associates, Inc. ................2011 J&B Irrigation ...............................2010 James W. Buckley & Associates, Inc..........................1981 Jim Hinton Oil Company ..............1981 John Ross Jewelers.....................1997 Kiwanis Club of Dougherty County ....................2003 Lafayette Plaza Investments ..............................1989 LeeDurham, LLC..........................2010 M & G Metal Contractors .............2008 Magnolia Pet Resort & Spa .........2007 March of Dimes, Greater SOWEGA Division ....................1986 Matrix Department, Inc. ...............2002 Mazur and Hockman, Inc.............1993 Merry Acres Inn ............................2011 Mitchell Electric Membership Corporation ..............................1982 Moe's Southwest Grill..................2003 Ortho Sport PT ............................2004

229-434-1414 • 610 N. Slappey Blvd.

Exopack .......................................1990 Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott..2009 Fairway Outdoor Advertising........1975 Financial Strategies Corporation ...............................1995 First United Methodist Church .....1993 Flint RiverKeeper, Inc. .................2009 Fowler, Michael ............................2011 Gardner, Willis, Sweat & Handelman ............................1975 Georgia Power Company.............1975 Girl Scouts of Historic GA...........2002 Goodyear & Goodyear Inc. ..........1989 Hilton Garden Inn Albany.............2005

P.J.'s Decorative Fabrics, Inc. ......1985 Pecan City Pedalers ....................2008 Plantation Services, Inc. ..............1992 Prescription Shoppe, The.............1993 Publix Super Markets #450..........2005 Ralph Jackson Hearing Aid Service..................2007 Reeds Jewelers ...........................2006 RHC, Inc. .....................................2007 Robert F. McKinney......................1993 Rock Albany, The .........................2007 Royal Collection, The ...................1988 Security Storage & Moving Service of Albany......................1986 Sellers Tile Distrubutors, Inc. .......2001 Sherwood Christian Academy......1997 Skyline Equipment Co. Inc...........2007 Smart Cars Etc. ...........................2008 South Georgia Brick Company ....1975 Southern Industrial Electronics....2008 Southland Appraisal Services,Inc.1997 www.AlbanyGa.com

SWGA Nephrology Clinic.............1994 MAKING YOUR BUSINESS LOOK GOOD For over 30 years

The Youth Becoming Healthy Project (YBH)............................2005 Troy University..............................2001 Tuff Truckin ...................................2011

MAGNETS

BALLOONS

Your Specialist for Lasting Impressions

CUPS CANDY JARS

BAGS AWARDS

T-SHIRTS

MUGS CAPS MOUSE PADS

YMCA, Albany..............................1979

STICKY PADS

WelForce Administrators, LLC .....2009 Westover Cleaners .......................2011 Wetherald Associates Plastering & Acoustics ...............................1993 World Camp Fitness ....................2009

pens KOOZIES

EMBROIDERY

U SAVE IT Pharmacy – Northwest .................................2002 U.S. Army Recruiting ....................2012 Uniforms by Julie, Inc. ..................2011 Usry Consulting ...........................2009

Specialty Advertising Products

Marlin Jones

Your reputation and image is important We make it easy!

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

2807 Old Dawson Rd. • Albany, GA 31707 • 229.435.0000 sales@logosplus.com • www.logosplus.com

3 LOCATIONS IN ALBANY ORTHOTIC SERVICES ADULTS AND PEDIATRIC • Diabetic Shoes/Inserts • Wrist Braces • AFO’s • Knee Braces • Spinal Supports • Pediatric Bracing • Custom Bracing • Toe Off • WalkAide

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

(229) 888-8347 January/February 2014

PROSTHETIC SERVICES UPPER & LOWER EXTREMITIES • Upper Extremity - Arms Below & Above Elbow i-LIMB™ Hand (body powered or myoelectric limbs) • Lower Extremity - Light Weight - Legs Below & Above (Microprocessor) Rheo Knee® • Post Mastectomy Certified Mastectomy Fitter

Open 5 Days a Week 24-Hour Emergency Call Free Evaluation

1.855.579.7137 www.limbcareonline.com www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

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MILITARY AFFAIR COMMITTEE CHRISTMAS PARTY The Military Affairs Committee kicked off its annual Christmas party with an all day drive-by toy drop-off for Toys for Tots at the Hilton Garden Inn. The Albany Civil Rights Institute also helped sponsor the event.

Durning the Christmas party everyone arrived with more toys to add to the hundreds collected during the day.

PRINCE OF ALBANY

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

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

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August 2013 | BUSINESS

www.AlbanyGa.com

January/February 2014

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

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LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS RISE N SHINE BREAKFAST

The area’s legislative contingent was welcomed at the November Legislative Affairs Rise N Shine Breakfast by Michael Meyer von Bremen, vice chairman of the 2013 Legislative Affairs Committee. Four legislators were in attendance. Senator Feddie Powell Sims, Representatives Winfred Dukes, Gerald Greene and Ed Rynders were given a chance to address the attendees at the breakfast that was

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January/February 2014 | BUSINESS

held at Merry Acres Event Center. Each seemed very optimistic about the upcoming 2014 session. Representative Carol Fullerton was unable to attend due to an injury from an automobile accident. The event was sponsored by WFXL-TV Fox 31, Albany-Dougherty EDC, Albany CVB, Phoebe Community Visions, Procter & Gamble, ASU, Georgia Power and Webb Properties.

www.AlbanyGa.com

KEEPING YOUR BUSINESS SAFE LUNCH & LEARN On December 13, the Chamber presented a Lunch & Learn facilitated by Corporal Covington with the Albany Police Department entitled “Keeping Your Business Safe.”

The “eWatch” program is a collaborative effort between participating businesses and the APD. It enables businesses to take an active part in preventing and reducing crime on business property through information sharing, raising awareness and training employees how to recognize criminals. Thank you the Central Monitoring for sponsoring the lunches.

January/February 2014

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

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2

2013 Strive Thrive An

Nakoasha Dillard experienced a phenomenal year! She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology (Bio Technology) from Albany State University in May 2013 and currently works full-time at Tara Foods as a Quality Assurance Lab Technician. December 18, 2013, she hosted the official book signing for her first book, “Surviving College While Raising a Toddler,” at Elements Coffee Shop.

Shanika Owens earned her High School Diploma and her son Jaylen has grown by leaps and bounds personally and academically as a result of her parenting skills training.

Jeanetta Miles earned her Drafting Technology Architectural Drafting Specialization diploma from Albany Technical College. She is currently pursuing an associate degree and is a working as a fulltime paid intern at SRJ Architects.

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January/February 2014 | BUSINESS

Sharon Davis achieved her health and wellness goal, by losing 25 pounds through the YMCA Team Lean Challenge, proper diet, and exercise. As a result of her weight loss, Sharon is no longer insulin dependent. She is employed at the Albany Area YMCA and continues to enjoy exercising on a regular basis.

Despite working full-time, cleaning houses for extra money, and caring for five children, Noelle Sparks, with tutoring assistance and her persistent hard work earned her GED.

www.AlbanyGa.com

nnual Report Our Progress EDUCATION Individuals enrolled • • • • •

GED Technical Diploma/Certificate Associate Degree Bachelor Degree Doctoral

1 2 1 4 1

By the Numbers

Individuals who graduated • • • • •

GED High School Diploma Technical Diploma/Certificate Associate Degree Bachelor Degree

1 1 2 1 1

EMPLOYMENT • No. of families who obtained new jobs in 2013: 10

Increase in Income • 6 months – 65.39% • 12 months – 205.24% • 18 months – 94.58%

Lifestyle Advancements • Reliable Transportation: 81.82% (5 obtained vehicles) • Safe, Affordable Housing: 100% (1 homeowner) • New/Opened Savings Accounts: 54.55%

Four families are out of poverty in 2013 (according to the Federal Poverty Guideline measurements)

Strive2Thrive Staff

Ausha Jackson

Alvita Swain

Executive Director

Intensive Services Coordinator

January/February 2014

www.strive2thrive.org

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

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ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE VISION To provide meaningful leadership training for those who will become our community’s next generation of business leaders.

The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce a new program, exclusively for Chamber Members Only, designed to mold future business leaders through personal and professional development entitled "Leadership Institute". The program will begin in August 2014 with the purpose being to prepare our young professionals while providing valuable tools and resources to develop into future business leaders in our community.

This program will effectively utilize the resources of the Chamber to develop and enhance the leadership skills of our young professionals with a focus on essential skills for business, community and personal growth. We are excited that this program will feature current community leaders serving as personal and professional mentors with an emphasis on developing the talents and relationships of the participants.

The program and curriculum was designed after a year of planning by the Chambers Leadership Development Division Committee members. Along with mentor-ship being a major

part of the program, the curriculum will provide a genuine and detailed focus on several key leadership skills such as Effective Delegation, Understanding Your Leadership Style, Visioning and Strategic Planning, Effective Networking, Political Savvy, Influence and Negotiation, Image and the Media and much more.

The Committee has set the following time frame for the inaugural class. Deadline for the receipt of applications will be April 1, 2014. Those chosen to participate will be notified

by June 1, and the deadline for the acceptance will be July 1. Tuition will be $1,000 per participant and will include many additional benefits that are part of the course curriculum, including but not limited to, attendance at Chamber hosted events such as the 2015 Leadercast, Rise N Shine Breakfasts and much more.

Although more information and announcements will be coming soon, those requesting additional information may call Chris Hardy at 434-8700 or email chardy@albanyga.com

Savvy People and Successful Companies

Choose Smart Partners.

At Colony Bank we know the importance of being a financial partner you can count on. We focus on supporting you, our customers and our communities by delivering quality products and quick, local decisions.

Come see the difference our local service makes to you and your business. We’re here ... and ready to help.

www.colonybank.com | Member FDIC 36

January/February 2014 | BUSINESS

www.AlbanyGa.com

Mark Your Calendar For Leadercast 2014 May 9, 2014

Speakers leadercast exists to positively change the way the world thinks about leadership. This year’s theme—Beyond you— challenges leaders to focus outward rather than inward. Experience leader cast live on May 9, 2014 and discover what it means to be a leader worth following. learn more at leadercast.com Watch here for more information on this event.

January/February 2014

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

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