Connections9Ribbon 2Cuttings

9Events 3Calendar

9Grow Dothan 4

9Workforce 5Development

9Business Briefs 7-10

9Small Business 11Development

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CONNECTIONSC H A M B E R

WHAT’SINSIDE

December 2014

9 www.dothan.com(334) 792-5138

The Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce held is 95th Annual Meeting at the Dothan Civic Center Nov. 6. Over 450 members attended the evening event which was filled with live music by the band Los Locos, networking opportunities and dinner catered by KBC Butcher’s Block Catering and Market.

Evening highlights included Bob Woodall, Bob Woodall Air Care Systems Inc., passing the gavel to Hope Johnson, Friend Bank. During his outgoing remarks, Woodall personally thanked the Chamber’s Board of Directors, staff, all his colleagues at Bob Woodall Air Care Services and his family, especially his wife Carla.

When Woodall became chairman he promised that it would be a year of growth, prosperity, success and celebration. He invited members to celebrate with their Chamber and take part in the area’s success. During his tenure, the area witnessed tremendous growth in economic efforts. Woodall even had the opportunity to travel to China with area leaders to help create business ties with companies looking to expand to the Wiregrass region.

“Tonight is all about celebrating our past, present and the future opportunities we have before us,” said Woodall. “Some of the areas worth celebrating include the Chamber celebrating 95 years of “meeting the challenge” and “shaping the future”; the organization currently having over 967 members, and of those it welcomed 104 new members just this past year; the Dothan area is blessed to have strong leaders in our military who have dedicated their lives so that each of us can enjoy freedom and security on a daily basis; education is another important aspect of our community worth celebrating as our school systems are truly something to be proud of.”

Woodall went on to add, “Celebrating our accomplishments and where we have been is exciting, but just as exciting is the future and where our community is going! The Dothan area is literally on the cusp of major economic development opportunities that I believe will certainly make the rest of the state envious of the work that has been done by all to recruit industry and bring more jobs to Dothan.”

After a short celebratory video, Woodall passed the gavel to Johnson. Johnson thanked Woodall for all his

commitment and hard work during his term.

Taking the podium, Johnson hit the ground running stating the Chamber’s main focus over the next year would be on the number one goal identified in the organization’s 2014-2015 Strategic Plan, “To grow the economy of the Wiregrass, and it’s a team effort,” said Johnson.

Members were all challenged to be a part of this growth by becoming a partner in the Chamber’s Grow Dothan Capital Campaign. “One hundred percent of the Chamber’s Board of Directors are Grow Dothan investors, I challenge all of you to join us,” Johnson said.

Other highlights of the celebration included the long-awaited announcement of the Chamber’s 2014 Small Business Person of the Year – David (Mit) Kirkland, Scenic Cable Network and Production. Kirkland was one of four finalists announced during Small Business Week held in May.

Also recognized was the 2014 Ambassador and Diplomat Team of the Year – Business A to Z. Congratulations to team members Angie Bell, Hilton Hotels; Team Co-Captain Sheila Cestaro, WDHN TV-18; Anna Tankersley, Kelly Services Inc.; Hayden Camp, Dothan Education Foundation; Stephanie Fields, Belk - Wiregrass Commons Mall; Team Co-Captain Kassie Glover, Alabama Telco Credit Union; Shelly Phillips, Houston Academy; Brannon Woodall, Bob Woodall Air Care Systems; and Brandon Ziegenfelder, Slingluff United Insurance.

Special recognition was also give to the Chamber’s 2014 Star of the year – Jennifer Ford who was with Vaughn-Blumberg Services, but being the star that she is, Ford recently decided to venture out on her own to become a small business entrepreneur with Ford Finders Employment Services.

A special thank you to our annual meeting sponsors: Platinum – CapSouth Partners; Gold – Ameris Bank, Bob Woodall Air Care Systems Inc., HEALTHSOUTH Rehabilitation Hospital, Mike Schmitz Automotive Group, Panhandle Converter Recycling, Southeast Alabama Gas District and Urban Mining Co.; and Silver - Dothan Warehouse, SoZo Group and Velma Tribue State Farm Insurance.

Celebrating Our Past, Present And Future

Johnson Becomes Chamber Chair

2014-2015

Strategic PlanIncluded Inside!

Outgoing Chairman Bob Woodall, Bob Woodall Air Care Systems, passes the gavel to Hope Johnson, Friend Bank.

Chair Hope Johnson, Friend Bank, thanks Outgoing Chairman Bob Woodall and his wife, Carly for their commitment and hard work over the past year.

Hundreds of pairs of socks were collected for donation to a local charity during the Dothan Area Chamber’s Annual Meeting. For each pair donated, members were given a chance to win $250 from Eagle Eye Outfitters. Congratulations to Georgia Pacific’s Robert Garlington. Thank you to everyone who participated in the “Socks and Ties Are Optional.”

See page 6 for pictures from the event.

RIBBONcuttings NEWmembers

RENEWINGmembers

Clip and add these to your Membership Directory.

Blue Bar and GrillAndre Barber3700 Ross Clark Circle, Suite 4Dothan, AL 36303Ph: (334) 231-3949BARS, PUBS, TAVERNS, SALOONS

Cobb, Boyd, White and CobbBo Boyd112 Jamestown Blvd. (Physical)P.O. Box 2047Dothan, AL 36302Ph: (334) 677-1000Fax: (334) 699-3500ATTORNEYS

Dothan MagazineAshley Watson3767 Ross Clark Circle, Suite 2 (Dothan)P.O. Box 11475Jackson, TN 38308Ph: (334) 446-1176Fax: (731) 256-7133MAGAZINES

Fairway Outdoor AdvertisingMelinda Chaney369 Enterprise Way (Valdosta, GA)1658 Hickory Grove RoadCottonwood, AL 36320Ph: (334) 714-0476OUTDOOR ADVERTISING

Ford Finders Employment ServicesJennifer Ford308 W. Washington St.Dothan, AL 36301Ph: (334) 446-5319Fax: (334) 446-5319EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

Glasstream Powerboats, LLCAngie Chapman3122 Oxmoor Industrial Blvd. (Dothan)1143 E. 15th St.Panama City, FL 32405Ph: (850) 873-6205Fax: (850) 270-2545

ImmunoTek Biocenters, LLCGreg Strategier2721 W. Main St. (Dothan)P.O. Box 19185New Orleans, LA 70179Ph: (337) 849-6506Fax: (855) 631-0734DONOR PLASMA CENTER

Nelson’s Electronic SystemsEdmon Nelson301 S. Pettus St.Dothan, AL 36301-1623Ph: (334) 363-7701SECURITY CONTROL EQUIPMENT & SYSTEMS INTERFACE

NUW GraphicsAmy Kirkland2569 S. Brannon Stand RoadDothan, AL 36305Ph: (334) 446-5260SCREENPRINTINGEMBROIDERY

Urban Mining, LLCDeidre Frith868 Murray RoadDothan, AL 36303Ph: (334) 479-8613Fax: (334) 446-4062

86 Or more YearsSlingluff United Insurance

40 YearsGlobe Motor Division

30-39 YearsCare Animal CenterFirst United Methodist ChurchLonnie Correll Insurance Agency

25-29 YearsJ M Electric Supply Co.Southern Dental Group

20-24 YearsAlabama Cooperative Extension SystemBasketcase CaféCarpetland USAChild and Family Services of Southeast AlabamaKelly Co., LLCScenic Cable Network and ProductionStuart C. Irby Co.WDFX-TV Fox 34Wiregrass Federal Credit Union

15-19 YearsAlfred Saliba Family Services CenterBurnham Shoes Inc.Camelot ApartmentsCourtyard by MarriottEastern TechnologiesHara Financial Services, LLCOakley, Wright and Hart, PCOriental ImportsR & L Enterprises Inc. dba Papa John’s PizzaSummit Investments

10-14 YearsEspy Financial ServicesFour Star FreightlinerIn Sight Solutions, LLCWeezersWiregrass Area Food Bank

5-9 YearsAAA - AlabamaAmedisys Home Health CareCOPACO - DothanCrowder OrthodonticsHerring, MikeHighland Hills ApartmentsKBC Butcher’s Block Catering and MarketSouthern Development Council Inc.Wiregrass United Way 2-1-1, Southeast Alabama

1-4 YearsAbiding Word Lutheran ChurchAnointed Touch Caregiver ServicesBuffalo Wild WingsChicken Salad ChickCoast To Coast Coatings Inc.Dandridge Dental, PCDothan KiaDothan Real Estate TeamFort Rucker - Wiregrass AUSAHinson Communications Inc.Hospice AdvantageHouston County Rescue SquadI.D. Associates Inc.JC Penney Co.Lan Darty Real Estate and DevelopmentMass MutualPrime HVAC, LLCRoad-Mart Inc.Smith, Sen. Harri Anne H. Southside Auto and Truck RepairState Bank and Trust Co. dba SB&T Bank in AlabamaThe Westgate CenterWesco Gas and Welding Supply Inc.Wiregrass RadioWireless AdvantageZiggyPie, LLC dba Southside Granite Showroom

Whitehall West Assisted Living

2100 John D. Odom RoadDothan, AL 36303

Wanda Smith(334) 793-1177

ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES

sarrell Dental center5412 Montgomery Highway,

Suite 8Dothan, AL 36303

Summer Quinn(334) 983-1730

DENTISTS – PEDIATRIC

corridor clean Fuels735 Ross Clark Circle

Dothan, AL 36303Bob Strickland

(256) 894-0098NATURAL GAS FUELING

STATION

bFc management137 N. St. Andrews St., Suite 2

Dothan, AL 36303Precious Freeman

(334) 714-4180 CONSULTANTS - NONPROFIT

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true creative 137 N. St. Andrews St., Suite 2

Dothan, AL 36303Jill Williams

(334) 655-7122ADVERTISING &

MARKETING

RELOcAtiOnDonofro Architects

137 N. Saint Andrews St., Suite 1Dothan, AL 36303

Joseph Donofro(334) 793-3333ARCHITECTS

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Events December Calendar

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

Crowdfunding Seminar – 2:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)*See page 10 for more information.

Ribbon Cutting: Cobb, Boyd, White and Cobb – 10:30 a.m.Location: 112 Jamestown Blvd.

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

Ribbon Cutting: Fairway Outdoor Advertising – 10:30 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)

Dothan Area Young Professionals’ Business Brews – 5:15 p.m.Location: 2620 Montgomery Highway, Suite 1 (Oak and Olive)

Ribbon Cutting: NUW Graphics – 10:30 a.m.Location: 2569 S. Brannon Stand Road Youth Leadership Dothan-Houston County Economic Development Day - 7:45 a.m. – 4 p.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber) Ribbon Cutting: All About Cleaning, LLC – 10 a.m.Location: 545 W. Main St., Room 110 (Mixson Business Center)

Leadership Dothan Diversity Workshop and Aviation Day - 7:45 a.m. – 5 p.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber) Ribbon Cutting: Ford Finders Employment Services – 10:30 a.m.Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)

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

Ribbon Cutting: Blue Bar and Grill – 10:30 a.m.Location: 3700 Ross Clark Circle, Suite 4

Christmas Holiday – Chamber Closed

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Congratulations to the Ambassador and Diplomat Team of the Month “Come ‘Sale’ Away” for claiming this month’s title. Pictured (seated) are Sheila Cestaro, WDHN TV-18; Elaine Covington, Health Link; (standing) Rob Heffner, Flowers Insurance Agency, LLC; Kyle Woodham, “Dothan Eagle”; Hunter Green, Todd and Sons; and Kevin Murphy, Southeast Alabama Gas District. Team members not pictured are Mary Helen Daniels, Manpower; Cheri Hall, BBVA Compass Bank; Rick Jenkins, Freedom Payment Systems, LLC; Carrie McBride, BBVA Compass Bank; and Donnie Wells, The Real Estate Group.

Thank you to all our Ambassadors and Diplomats who serve as the eyes and ears for the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce. It is their dedication and support that assist your local Chamber in meeting its goals.

Be sure to check out next month’s Chamber Connections to see who will claim the title.

Kevin MurphySoutheast Alabama Gas District

Star Of The Month

Ambassadors & DiplomatsTeam Of The Month

Come “Sale” Away

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Grow Dothan Campaign Update

The Dothan Area Chamber’s Grow Dothan officials are hard at work meeting with area leaders and businesses to talk with them about the Grow Dothan Capital Campaign and the role it plays in the continuation of economic development in the Wiregrass.

The City of Dothan has contributed $300,000, Houston County has contributed $140,000 and to date, the business community has raised $186,016. The three-year goal is $2 million. The Dothan Area Chamber is also proud to

announce that 100 percent of its Board of Directors have made a commitment to the campaign.

Won’t you consider how you and your business can join the Board’s leadership in the advancement of economic growth in our area? No commitment is

too small, it’s through partnerships that make Dothan, Houston County and the

Wiregrass the perfect place to live, work and play.

Among the 264 urban areas that participated in the third quarter 2013 ACCRA Cost of Living Index, the Dothan area came in at 85.9 for its total index. This index represents that the overall cost of living for the Dothan area is 14.1 percent below the national average.

When compared to the seven Alabama urban areas that participated in the 2014 third quarter Index, the Dothan area was the lowest cost area in the state. The area also reported the lowest composite index in the state for Housing, Utilities, Health Care and Miscellaneous Goods and Services.

Dothan MSA Lowest In State

ACCRA Cost Living IndexThird Quarter 2014

The ACCRA Cost of Living Index measures regional differences in the cost of consumer goods and services, excluding taxes and non-consumer expenditures, for professional and managerial households in the top income quintile. It is based on more than 90,000 prices covering 60 different items for which prices are collected quarterly by chambers of commerce, economic development organizations and university applied economic centers in each participating urban area. Small differences should not be interpreted as showing a measurable difference.

The composite index is based on six component categories – Housing, Utilities, Grocery Items, Transportation, Health Care and Miscellaneous Goods and Services.

What Does Groceries Cost? Each quarter, C2ER collects more than 90,000 prices from communities across the U.S. for the Cost of Living Index. With food prices a big part of the national media attention, C2ER decided to once again feature those communities with the most and least expensive food costs as measured by the grocery item index number. C2ER collects data on 26 items from a variety of surrogate categories to represent the grocery item component of the index. Dothan’s Grocery Items index was 100.4.

ACCRA Cost of Living Index (COLI)Third Quarter 2014

National Average for 264 Urban Areas = 100

Alabama Grocery Items by Index NumberRanking Urban Areas Index

1234567

Florence, Ala. Montgomery, Ala. Decatur-Huntsville, Ala.Dothan, Ala. Birmingham, Ala. Huntsville, Ala.Auburn-Opelika, Ala.

93.396.497.6100.4103.2106.1107.5

Grow Dothan Chairman Mark Saliba makes a presentation to the Alfred Saliba Realty team.

Grow Dothan Chairman Mark Saliba (left) and Director of External Affairs Dean Mitchell call on area business leaders.

ACCRA Cost of Living Index (COLI)Third Quarter 2014

National Average for 264 Urban Areas = 100

Five Most Expensive Urban AreasRanking Urban Areas COL Index

12345

Manhattan, N.Y.Honolulu, Hawaii Brooklyn, N.Y. San Francisco, Calif.HIlo, Hawaii

214.5171.2168.6165.5156.4

Five Least Expensive Alabama CitiesRanking Urban Areas COL Index

12345

Dothan, Ala. Decatur-Hartselle, Ala. Birmingham-Hoover, Ala.Florence, Ala.Hunstville, Ala.

85.988.391.692.693.8

*NICHE: Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders program offered by the New York University College of Nursing.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.

CHEST PAIN ACCREDITED

Unique. Introducing the Senior Track at Flowers Hospital Emergency Room.Going to the emergency room is a stressful experience at any age, especially for seniors. That’s why we’ve introduced an environment designed just for patients 65 and older.

Flowers Hospital’s Senior Track Features:

• Nurses specifically trained in geriatric emergency care*• Patient rooms with softer beds and an easy-to-operate call button• Separate waiting area and wheelchairs for easy transportation• Nutrition, physical therapy and medication screening• Help with discharge planning to foster the continuum of care

To learn more, visit FlowersHospital.com.

81296_FLOW_SeniorER_6_625x5_1325c.indd 1 11/3/14 11:56 AM

Chamber President Matt Parker (top photo), Immediate Past Chairman Bob Woodall (left photo) and Grow Dothan Chairman Mark Saliba talk with members of the Dothan-Houston County Rotary Club.

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WORkFORCEDeveLOpment

Soft Skills Seem Hard To Teach

In two recent meetings of organizations with statewide missions the issue of soft skills of younger workers was a topic of discussion. Some in the group referred to the topic as what used to be called “Common Sense” for anyone seeking employment. It appears that lack of these essential employability skills in much of the population is the primary concern of the meeting attendees when

considering current and future workforce needs. A CNBC survey in 2013 indicates that this concern is widespread among employers (Source: www.cnbc.com/id/101012437).

Investopedia defines and explains soft skills as such: The character traits and interpersonal skills that characterize a person’s relationships with other people. In the workplace, soft skills are considered a complement to hard skills, which refer to a person’s knowledge and occupational skills. Sociologists may use the term soft skills to describe a person’s “EQ” or “Emotional Intelligence Quotient” (as opposed to “IQ”).

Soft skills have more to do with who we are than what we know. As such, soft skills encompass the character traits that decide how well one interacts with others, and are usually a definite part of one’s personality. Whereas hard skills can be learned and perfected over time, soft skills are more difficult to acquire and change.

Daniel Goleman, an American psychologist, developed a framework of five elements that define emotional intelligence:

1. Self-Awareness – People with high EI are usually very self-aware. They understand their emotions, and because of this, they don’t let their feelings rule them. They’re confident – because they trust their intuition and don’t let their emotions get out of control.

They’re also willing to take an honest look at themselves. They know their strengths and weaknesses, and they work on these areas so they can perform better. Many people believe that this self-awareness is the most important part of emotional intelligence.

2. Self-Regulation – This is the ability to control emotions and impulses. People who self-regulate typically don’t allow themselves to become too angry or jealous, and they don’t make impulsive, careless decisions. They think before they act. Characteristics of self-regulation are thoughtfulness, comfort with change, integrity, and the ability to say no.

3. Motivation – People with a high degree of EI are usually motivated. They’re willing to defer immediate results for long-term success. They’re highly productive, love a challenge, and are very effective in whatever they do.

4. Empathy – This is perhaps the second-most important element of EI. Empathy is the ability to identify with and understand the wants, needs and viewpoints of those around you. People with empathy are good at recognizing the feelings of others, even when those feelings may not be obvious. As a result, empathetic people are usually excellent at managing relationships, listening and relating to others. They avoid stereotyping and judging too quickly, and they live their lives in a very open, honest way.

5. Social Skills – It’s usually easy to talk to and like people with good social skills, another sign of high EI. Those with strong social skills are typically team players. Rather than focus on their own success first, they help others develop and shine. They can manage disputes, are excellent communicators, and are masters at building and maintaining relationships.

The above elements do indeed cover areas of concern when addressing soft skills.

As the global economy emerged in the later part of the 20th century the U.S. Department of Labor attempted to develop a system that defined employment requirements for occupations much more broadly than by educational requirements by providing quantifiable skill requirements. The outcome of this effort was The Secretary’s Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills-What Work Requires of Schools report.

The Secretary’s Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills was asked to examine the demands of the workplace and whether today’s young people are capable of meeting those demands. Specifically, the Commission was directed to advise the Secretary on the level of skills required to enter employment. In carrying out this charge, the Commission was asked to:

• Define the skills needed for employment;

• Propose acceptable levels of proficiency;

• Suggest effective ways to assess proficiency; and

• Develop a dissemination strategy for the nation’s schools, businesses and homes.

The report established three foundational skills that support five competencies. The foundational skills are:

1. Basic Skills - reading, writing, arithmetic and mathematics, speaking and listening;

2. Thinking Skills - thinking creatively, making decisions, solving problems, seeing things in the mind’s eye, knowing how to learn and reasoning;

3. Personal Qualities - individual responsibility, self-esteem, sociability, self-management and integrity.

The SCANS report led to the development of O*Net, which is an online catalog of occupations that defines and quantifies: education, knowledge, skills, and abilities required for each occupation.

It appears then that a term that is synonymous with “Emotional Quotient” is “Personal Qualities” as defined in O*Net and we would expect further development and quantification of these skills, however O*Net does not directly address “Personal Qualities” for each occupation. It does cover Social Perception as an element of Social Skills.

The category of skills listed in O*Net are:

• Basic Skills - Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge;

• Complex Problem Solving Skills - Developed capacities used to solve novel, ill-defined problems in complex, real-world settings;

• Resource Management Skills - Developed capacities used to allocate resources efficiently;

• Social Skills - Developed capacities used to work with people to achieve goals:

• Coordination - Adjusting actions in relation to others’ actions.

• Instruction - Teaching others how to do something.

• Negotiation - Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.

• Persuasion - Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.

• Service Orientation - Actively looking for ways to help people.

• Social Perceptiveness - Being aware of others’ reactions and understanding why they react as they do.

• System Skills - Developed capacities used to understand, monitor, and improve socio-technical systems; and

• Technical Skills - Developed capacities used to design, set-up, operate and correct malfunctions involving application of machines or technological systems.

As O*Net doesn’t address such issues as self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation and empathy, maybe the meeting attendees that used the term “Common Sense” were correct and we need to make common sense more common.

Steve Turkoski, Project Manager

Youth Leadership Class Gets Underway

The Youth Leadership Dothan-Houston County Class XXIII held its opening reception and orientation last night Wednesday, Nov. 5, at Clarion Inn and Suites.

The program’s goal is to interest students in civic and volunteer activities, encourage them to recognize their potential and assist them in identifying their special skills and talents.

For more information about the program, contact Linda Kelley, program coordinator, at (334) 792-5138 or email lkelley@dothan.com.

Youth Leadership Dothan-Houston County Class XXIII

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Outgoing Chairman Bob Woodall, Bob Woodall Air Care Services Inc., passes the gavel to Hope Johnson, Friend Bank, during the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s 95th Annual Meeting.

David “Mit” Kirkland, co-owner of Scenic Cable Network and Production is named the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2014 Small Business Person of the Year

The 2014 Ambassador and Diplomat Team of the Year, Business A To Z, was given recognition during the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Meeting. Pictured (l-r) are team members Brannon Woodall, Bob Woodall Air Care Systems Inc.; Stephanie Fields Belk – Wiregrass Commons Mall; Team Co-Captain Sheila Cestaro, WDHN TV-18; Angie Bell, Hi8lton Hotels; Hayden Camp, Dothan Education Foundation; and Outgoing Chairman Bob Woodall, Bob Woodall Air Care Systems, Inc.

Jennifer Ford, who served as a Chamber Diplomat from Vaughn-Blumberg Services, is the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2014 Star of the Year.

Special Thank You To Our Event Sponsors.

BuSINESSbrieFs

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Have an upcoming event planned?Send your event information to

mmckean@dothan.com

Flowers Hospital Awarded “A” Grade Hospital Safety Score

Flowers Hospital was honored again with an “A” grade in the fall 2014 update to the Hospital Safety Score, which rates how well hospitals protect patients from accidents, errors, injuries and infections. Flowers Hospital was one of only 11 hospitals in Alabama to receive an “A” and this is Flowers sixth time to receive the recognition in a row.

The Hospital Safety Score is compiled under the guidance of the nation’s leading experts on patient safety and is administered by The Leapfrog Group, an independent industry watchdog. The first and only hospital safety rating to be analyzed in the peer-reviewed Journal of Patient Safety, the score is designed to give the public information they can use to protect themselves and their families.

“Flowers Hospital is committed to providing excellent care to the patients we are privileged to serve,” said Suzanne Woods, Flowers Hospital president/CEO. “Flowers Hospital’s culture of quality improvement and patient safety reflects our goal to provide every patient with safe and effective health care services. The Leapfrog Group’s recognition of Flowers Hospital with an ‘A’ Hospital Safety Score is a reflection of our team’s unwavering dedication and commitment. We would like to acknowledge our outstanding physicians, devoted employees, and loyal volunteers who work together to fulfill our mission of caring for patients as family.”

Chief Quality Officer Amy Butler added, “Hospitals were the first industry to provide quality data to the public and have been doing so for more than a decade. We believe that hospitals should be transparent with their quality and safety information so that communities know the efforts hospitals are making to improve care. Flowers Hospital has always worked to ensure that patients receive the right care at the right time in the right place. We are proud of this grade and feel it reflects our ongoing efforts.”

Flowers Hospital has served the health care needs of the Wiregrass for over 60 years. The facility is not only an important resource for the Dothan community, it also serves as a major tertiary referral center for the tri-State area of south Alabama, southwest Georgia and northwest Florida.

To see Flowers Hospital’s scores as they compare nationally and locally, and to find safety tips for patients and their loved ones, visit the Hospital Safety Score website at www.hospitalsafetyscore.org.

For more information, visit www.flowershospital.com.

Houston Academy To Present Christmas

Madrigal

The Houston Academy Upper School drama class will be putting on Christmas Madrigal Thursday, Dec. 11, at 7 p.m. in Dunning Hall. Dessert, coffee and hot cider will be served.

Admission is free, but seats are limited. To ensure yourself a seat, you may pick up a (free) ticket from the front office.

For more information, contact Julie Arthur at arthurj@houstonacademy.com.

Celebrate RecoveryEvery Friday • 6 p.m.Harvest Church. This is a biblical 12-step program for anyone struggling with life’s hurts, hang-ups or habits. The program is free and all are welcome. Optional dinner starts at 6 p.m.; free to first-time guests. For those with children, age specific children’s program available. For more information, call Harvest at (334) 702-6555 or email celebraterecovery@harvestdothan.com. “You can’t heal a wound by saying it’s not there!”

“Raise The Steaks” Fundraiser Dec. 4 • 4 p.m. to CloseLogan’s Roadhouse. The Dothan Education Foundation invites you to join it for a “Raise the Steaks” fundraiser. When you mention to you server that you are dining in support of DEF, Logan’s will donate up to a sizzling 20 percent of all pre-tax sales to DEF. For more information, call (334) 794-6585.

Fort Rucker’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Dec. 4 • 5-6 p.m.Fort Rucker Howze Field. Join Fort Rucker for a delightful evening of music, hot chocolate, the lighting of post Christmas tree and a very special visitor from the North Pole. Afterwards, enjoy complimentary photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus at The Landing. They may also have some treats for those good girls and boys. This event is free and open to the public. In case of inclement weather, the event will take place at The Landing. For more information, contact Special Events at (334) 255-1749 or visit www.ftruckermwr.com. Proper identification, car registration and proof of insurance are required to enter Fort Rucker.

Downtown Christmas FestivalDec. 6 • 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.Downtown Dothan. Hosted by The Downtown Group, festivities include snow activities (bring mittens it’s cold!) and traditional Christmas elements such as caroling, visits with Santa Claus and cookie decorating. There is no cost to come out to the event and have fun. There will also be many vendors selling items and giving you ideas for Christmas shopping. For more information, call (334) 793-3097 or to reserve a vendor space call (334) 699-1475.

Upcoming Member EventsVictorian ChristmasDec. 14 • 1-4 p.m.Landmark Park. Warm up to some holiday hospitality during an afternoon centered on the pleasures of Christmas’ past. Visitors are invited to sample turn-of-the-century desserts and sip hot chocolate or mulled cider while children try their hand at making traditional Christmas decorations. A circuit-riding preacher will arrive on horseback to deliver a Christmas message at the church. Arts and crafts, holiday music, wagon rides and more. Free admission, visitors are encouraged to bring a nonperishable food item for donation to the Wiregrass Area United Way Food Bank. For more information, call (334) 794-3452 or visit www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Wesley Manor Holiday Open House Dec. 9 • 1-3 p.m.Wesley Manor Retirement Center. The community is invited to join Wesley Manor Retirement Center for a Holiday Open House with refreshments and entertainment in the Main Lobby. For more information, call (334) 792-0921 or visit www.methodisthomes.org.

Headland Christmas ParadeDec. 11 • 6 p.m. Downtown Headland. Join the Headland Area Chamber of Commerce for a Christmas Parade featuring good old St. Nick. Along with Santa, you will also see beautiful holiday displays and music to put you in the mood to admire the lighting of the town’s stunning Christmas tree. For more information, contact the Headland Area Chamber of Commerce at (334) 693-3303, e-mail headlandchamber@centurytel.net or visit www.headlandal.com.

Mother-Daughter TeaDec. 14 • 2:30 p.m.The Grand on Foster. Girls Inc. will host their annual Mother-Daughter Tea. Participants will enjoy a tea style lunch, time to visit with each other and Santa Clause, make a Christmas ornament and take picture in the photo booth. Tickets are $50 a couple; $20 each additional ticket. Members pay half price. For more information, call (334) 793-2321.

Have an upcoming event planned?Send your event information to mmckean@dothan.com

BuSINESSbrieFs

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December Events

December 1-24 House of Ruth Holiday Gift Wrapping – House of Ruth will be wrapping holiday gifts for shoppers in the JC Penney Court. All proceeds will go to the House of Ruth for abused women and their children.

December 13 Season of Surprises #It’s Your Lucky Day – Are you going to be one of the lucky shoppers to receive a free gift from Wiregrass Commons Mall? The Mall will be handing out $25-$50 gift cards at random, purchasing lunches for selected families, handing out a random iPad mini, Kindle Fire, iPhone cases, iPad keyboard covers, iPad covers, $75 gas cards and other items to select shoppers throughout the mall.

For more information, contact the Wiregrass Commons Mall office at (334) 792-7734 or visit www.shopwiregrasscommonsmall.com.

First Class Diamonds Celebrates Anniversary, Announces Relocation

First Class Diamonds and Jewelry announces the celebration of its first year in business and relocation to a new, larger jewelry store located at 1230 Westgate Parkway, Suite 4.

Owners Jim and Joanne McGhee said business and support this past year has been incredible in The Nest on Foster located in historical downtown Dothan; however, the new location will allow them to carry a much larger selection of engagement rings, fine jewelry, luxury watches and continue to grow with customer demand.

As a wholesale diamond broker, Jim McGhee along with his wife, who are both certified Diamontoligist, started First Class Diamonds in 2013 as a retail outlet to be able to offer diamonds direct to consumers.

“There are sales tax regulations that must be properly addressed and starting a small jewelry store with low

overhead was the perfect fit,” said Jim McGhee. Already experienced in the retail jewelry industry

previously as a managing partner of a large local jewelry store, Jim McGhee began offering a small selection of engagement rings too.

“Customers also demanded colorful gemstones, natural pearls, gold and silver as well as jewelry, watch repair and accurate jewelry appraisals,” added Jim McGhee.

Joanne serves as the store manager. You may remember that she was the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2005 Ambassador of the Year, or that Jim was the 2007 Small Business Person of the Year.

Chamber members are invited to stop by and check out all the store has to offer in jewelry and possibly help you mark off that special someone on your Christmas list.

1108 Ross Clark CircleDothan, Alabama 36301334-793-8111 samc.org

SAMC is the region’s first hospitalto earn the prestigious Gold PlusStroke Award from the AmericanHeart Association and AmericanStroke Association.

From the area’s first responders to SAMC’s highly trained stroketeam of physicians, nurses andclinical team members, patients receive the latest stroke care available.

This means a coordinated andquicker response time, which inturn means less damage caused by the stroke.

Top 10% in nation for patient safety

WITH STROKE,TIME LOST IS BRAIN LOST.

SAMC IS THE REGION’S GOLDSTANDARD FOR STROKE CARE.

PROVIDING PATIENTS THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF ADVANCED

STROKE CARE.

Greater Beulah Celebrates 107 Years

Greater Beulah Missionary Baptist Church celebrated its 107 anniversary Sunday, Nov. 9. The church was organized in 1907 under the name Beulah Missionary Baptist Church and under the leadership of Rev. Rooper.

Since March 24, 2013, Dr. Rayford Malone has served as pastor and under his guidance, the church has seen tremendous growth and restoration. Average attendance per week is between 350-450 attendees.

During the anniversary celebration, Dr. Malone had an inspiring message on everyone working together to create a better Dothan for all.

Greater Beulah Missionary Baptist Church Senior Pastor, Dr. Rayford Malone, welcomes Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce Chair Hope Johnson to the church’s 107th anniversary celebration.

Dial 2-1-1 For Toy Donation, Drop-off Locations

The Wiregrass Marine Corps League Detachment 752 is collecting new, unwrapped toys for the Toys for Tots program to distribute as Christmas gifts to children who may not have the opportunity of receiving gifts.

The primary goal is to deliver, through a shiny new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to these children and to motivate them to grow into responsible, productive, patriotic citizens and community leaders.

Toys for Tots registration for Wiregrass families needing assistance has ended and many area families struggling to make ends meet have signed up. If you would like to make a donation for this year’s Toys for Tots program, or would like to drop off toys, dial 2-1-1 (toll free) on your phone or 1-888-421-1266 between the hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. only, Monday through Friday. A Wiregrass United Way 2-1-1 call specialist will be able to assist you.

BuSINESSbrieFs

9

SunSouth Bank Adds Talent To Its Team

The future is bright at SunSouth Bank with the addition of new talent to offer more advanced and innovative financial solutions for the community and its customers.

Long-time community banker Monty Weigel has taken the helm as CEO with his extensive experience injecting new banking services to energize the delivery of advanced solutions to assure the financial success of all.

Thad S. Johnson comes on board as senior vice president-commercial banking to put his energy, experience and fresh thought to aid and assist local business leaders achieve new ground. He has 22 years of experience in retail and commercial lending with some of the top banks in

Alabama. Johnson holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing

and finance from Auburn University and a master’s in business administration from the University of Alabama. He is a member of the Dothan-Houston County Rotary Club and other numerous civic and community organizations.

Jeff Ratcliffe also joins the expanded team as senior vice president-credit administration to oversee the credit and enterprise risk of the Bank.

Ratcliffe, with over 30 years of financial experience primarily with leading community banks in the Southeast, brings a special talent for covering all of the bases needed to assure financial success for the bank and its customers.

Armed with a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Auburn University, Ratcliffe attended the Graduate School of Commercial Lending and other upper level financial and real estate schools. He is a craftsman and experienced at structuring the best financial solutions for the bank’s customers.

Thad S. Johnson,Senior Vice President-Commercial Banking

Jeff Ratcliffe,Senior Vice President-Credit Administration

Gilbreath Completes Certification Program

Mighty Auto Parts recently announced that the company’s Dothan Manager, Rob Gilbreath, successfully completed the Mighty VS7 Chemical Training Program, a certification program of Mighty Distributing System of America.

With the completion of the program, Gilbreath is now certified in the Cooling, Transmission, Oil,

Fuel, Power Steering and Maintenance systems. For more information about Mighty Auto Parts and

the services the company provides, contact Gilbreath at (334) 677-2672 or visit www.mightyautoparts.com.

Rob Gilbreath,Manager

SAMC Launches New Patient Care Model

The Southeast Alabama Medical Center launched its Care Coordination effort with the placement of eight RN’s as coordinators. They are Peggy Givens, Pediatrics; Jerry Temples, Critical Care; Ramona Johnson, Oncology; Kelly Clayton, Cardiology; Jesse Meadows, Urology/Nephrology; Kathy Hester, Orthopedics; Dawn Merritt, Cardiovascular Services; and Adrian Galloway, Neurology/Neurosurgery.

Care Coordinators will round on every patient every day and plan their care with the assistance of physicians, case workers, patients, family members, nursing, rehab services and others.

Coordination for patient care will be directed by these Care Coordinators who will facilitate SAMC patients getting the appropriate care at the appropriate time, every time.

SAMC’s Care Coordination model involves every hospital department. Daily huddles with care teams and physicians on each floor will continually put patients and their families first in all the Medical Center does. This program involves much more than these eight nurses. Each SAMC employee will directly or indirectly play a role in the success of the Care Coordination program.

An interdisciplinary team spent months planning

this new care model for SAMC, which is being adopted as best practice among some of the country’s leading hospital systems.

For more information about the Care Coordination Model, contact Steve Pearce, SAMC media relations/photography. at (334) 805-3388 or visit www.samc.org.

The Southeast Alabama Medical Center launched its Care Coordination effort with the placement of eight RN’s as coordinators. Pictured (l-r) are Peggy Givens, Pediatrics; Jerry Temples, Critical Care; Ramona Johnson, Oncology; Kelly Clayton, Cardiology; Jesse Meadows, Urology/Nephrology; Kathy Hester, Orthopedics; Dawn Merritt, Cardiovascular Services; and Adrian Galloway, Neurology/Neurosurgery.

Alabama’s Largest Public Natural Gas Station Opens in Dothan

Drivers whose cars or trucks are fueled by compressed natural gas have a new place to fill their tanks with the opening of Alabaman’s largest public-access CNG station in Dothan.

Located at 735 Ross Clark Circle (Hobo Pantry Chevron), Dothan Mayor Mike Schmitz and Houston County Chairman Mark Culver both spoke to the large crowd in attendance for the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony.

The station is a partnership of Corridor Clean Fuels, Home Oil Co. and the Southeast Alabama Gas District.

“Having a public-access, fast-fill station in Dothan will not only serve drivers who are already using CNG, it will encourage both fleets and individuals to make the switch to this domestic, cleaner-burning transportation fuel. The $1.98 per gasoline gallon equivalent price at the pump will certainly turn a few heads,” said Mark Bentley, executive director of the Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition.

Following the grand opening, a lunch and educational

workshop on CNG as an alternative fuel took place at the Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center Inc.’s Sterling Events Services Rotary Hall.

For more information on CNG fuel, contact Bob Strickland, Corridor Clean Fuel’s director of marketing, at (256) 894-0098 or visit www.cynergyfuels.com.

Alabama’s Largest Public Natural Gas Station recently opened in Dothan at 735 Ross Clark Circle (Hobo Pantry Chevron),

Urban Mining Launches First-Of-Its-Kind App

Urban Mining, LLC recently launched a ground-breaking new app, Converter Data, for the catalytic converter recycling industry in October during the 71st Annual Automotive Recyclers Association Convention and Expo in Nashville. Chief Information Officer Wesley Riley made the announcement to a crowd of approximately 200 leaders in the automotive recycling industry.

“The Converter Data Application is a game changer in the industry,” said Riley. “Nobody has done anything like this before. We’re taking the guesswork out of purchasing converters.”

Backed by 300 combined years of experience, the app will change the catalytic converter buying industry. The Converter Data Application is the first of its kind within the recycling industry, offering suppliers the

chance to view information about catalytic converters in real time, taking the guesswork out of purchasing.

The app provides users with professional images of catalytic converters and is searchable with general descriptions, years, makes, models, manufacturers and part numbers, as well as group values and market values. Users can monitor the Platinum Group Metals market prices which allows them to create accurate dynamic price lists off of current market prices.

“This will prevent businesses from making poor buying decisions and make purchases more profitable,” said Riley.

The app is currently available on Android smartphones and tablets and will also be available in the iTunes store. For more information, visit www.urbanmining.works or call (844) 533-5055.

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BuSINESSbrieFs

Lewis-Smith Supply Celebrates 40 Years

The Lewis-Smith Supply Corp. recently celebrated 40 years of doing business by hosting an open house to honor their customers.

In recognition of the anniversary, Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce Chair Hope Johnson, Friend Bank, presented company officials with a commendation for the service it has provided to the community since 1974.

Lewis-Smith Supply offers a vast collection of fixtures, faucets and accessories for kitchen and bath needs. The company provides a complete line of plumbing supplies for new construction designs, existing and remodels in residential and commercial builds.

Lewis-Smith Supply is pleased to serve customers in its Dothan, Enterprise, Eufaula and Marianna locations.

For more information about all the items the company offers, call (334) 793-5088 or visit www.lewis-smithsupply.com.

In recognition of Lewis-Smith Supply Corp. celebrating 40 years of doing business, Dothan Area Chamber Chair Hope Johnson, Friend Bank, presented company officials with a commendation. Pictured (l-r) with Johnson are Carolyn Smith, wife of Ralph Smith (deceased), and children Mark Smith and Michelle Benton.

Courtesy of Wiregrass Living Magazine

Coleman World Group Awards

$22,000 In College Scholarships

Coleman World Group recently awarded the Virginia M. Coleman Memorial Scholarship to 22 students attending higher education institutions across six states and one U.S. territory. To qualify for the scholarship, students must have been a son, daughter or grandchild to a Coleman World Group employee.

Since the inception of the scholarship, Coleman World Group has given $161,000 to deserving children and grandchildren of its associates. The scholarship recipients’ education aspirations range from two-year technical degrees such as welding up through difficult medical programs at prestigious U.S. medical schools.

The Virginia M. Coleman Memorial Scholarship honors longtime matriarch of the Coleman family and Coleman World Group. “I know that my grandmother would be proud that she is being honored through the education of our company and country’s future,” said Jeff Coleman, Coleman World Group CEO. “With the continuing inflation towards the cost of education, we feel that this is one great way to give back to our associates and their loved ones.”

Coleman recently finished a term with the Alabama Commission on Higher Education.

Coleman World Group is a full-service worldwide moving and storage company that is dedicated to serving the needs of corporations, governments and individuals. Coleman World Group is a family company and it is one of the largest privately held transportation companies headquartered in the Southeast. It operates over 50 service centers throughout the United States, a top ten van line carrier, Covan World-Wide Moving, and Coleman American Moving Services, one of the largest agents for Allied Van Lines.

For more information about Coleman World Group, visit www.colemanwg.com or call (800) 239-7700.

MAO To Host“Red Carpet Affair”

Medical AIDS Outreach of Alabama (MAO) invites you to join it for “A Red Carpet Affair” at Hyundai of Dothan Friday, Dec. 5, at 6:30 p.m.

Evening highlights will include dancing, a live band, a fashion show, heavy hors d’oeuvres and champagne. Doors will open at 6 p.m.

Tickets are $20 per person or $35 per couple. Proceeds benefit MAO’s prevention education services.

For tickets or more information, call (334) 673-0494.

SMAllbusinessDEvElOPMENT

Small Business TipsHow businesses get new revenue from old customers Customer testimonials, referral programs and user events are among the top ways companies generate more revenue from existing customers, an Influitive study says. “[I]t’s easier to sell more to existing customers who already know and trust your business than to attract new ones who have never heard of you and convince them to buy from you,” writes Rieva Lesonsky. Read more: www.smallbizdaily.com/18560/5-ways-make-money-existing-customers/. (Source: SmallBizDaily, Rieva Lesonsky, “5 Ways To Make More Money From Existing Customers,” Nov. 4, 2014)

Four rules for better communication in meetings Meetings work better when you introduce ground rules, writes James M. Kerr. Ban eye-rolling and create a safe, respectful space for discussion, and be prepared to sidestep deadlocks and table unproductive discussions. “When consistently enforced, these simple ground rules help drain contentiousness out of the conversation,” says Kerr. Read more: www.management-issues.com/opinion/6707/principles-before-personalities/. (Source: Management-Issues (U.K.), James M. Kerr, “Principals before personalities,” Nov. 5, 2014)

Business planning starts with financial knowledge According to Rob King, Intuit Canada, small-business owners who know the financial details of their companies can plan more effectively. King’s 10 tactics for improving your financial knowledge include adding up your operating costs, learning to read financial statements and finding an accountant who can act as a strategic partner. Read more: www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/small-business/sb-tools/top-tens/ten-ways-small-businesses-can-improve-their-financial-skills/article21426293/. (Source: The Globe and Mail (Toronto), Rob King, “Ten ways small business owners can improve their financial literacy,” Nov. 5, 2014)

Sales tactics need to change with the times What worked in sales a few years ago may not work today, writes Ryan Estis. Customers are more informed, and businesses need to take this into account with sales tactics that depend less on applying pressure and more on transparency and collaboration. Read more: http://ryanestis.com/sales/this-is-what-happened-when-i-completely-changed-my-approach-to-sales/. (Source: Ryan Estis and Associates, Ryan Estis, “This Is What Happened When I Completely Changed My Approach To Sales,” Nov. 13, 2014)

11

Small Business Seminar

CrowdfundingDec. 3 • 2:30 p.m.

Join the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce Wednesday, Dec. 3, from 2:30-4 p.m. for a Crowdfunding seminar. This seminar will allow small businesses and entrepreneurs the opportunity to learn about a new Alabama law that gives them a new way

to raise money.Crowdfunding, the practice of funding a

project or venture by raising small amounts of money from a large amount of people, became

law earlier this year under a bill written by Sen. Arthur Orr, 3rd District (Limestone, Madison, Morgan). This new law allows individuals to use social media and advertising to raise up to $1 million toward their initiative. Investments are capped at $5,000 per person and is restricted to Alabama businesses and investors.

Sen. Orr and officials from the Alabama Securities Commission will be at the Chamber to discuss the rules and regulations regarding Crowdfunding.

The event is free and open to all Chamber members and the public. Reservations are required, as seating is limited. To reserve your seat, contact Susan Tatom at (334) 792-5138.

Federal And State Employment Law For Small Businesses

The inventory of employment law that an employer must comply with is based on the number of employees, as all employment laws have a threshold number of employees. Within the Dothan Metropolitan Statistical Area, 69 percent of all companies have 10 or less employees, so those companies only have to have substantive knowledge of and comply with the following list. For larger employers, the complete list can be accessed at www.shrm.org/LegalIssues/FederalResources/FederalStatutesRegulationsandGuidanc/Documents/FederalLawThresholds.pdf.

The Federal Labor Laws By Number of Employees, for 1-14 employees, are :

• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (for employment agencies and labor organizations). See 15-19 for other employers.

• Consumer Credit Protection Act of 1968

• Employee Polygraph Protection Act of 1988

• Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) of 1974 (if company offers benefits)

• Equal Pay Act of 1963

• Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003 (FACT)

• Fair Credit Reporting Act of 1969

• Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938

• Federal Insurance Contributions Act of 1935 (FICA) (Social Security)

• Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996 (if company offers benefits)

• Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment Act of 2010 (HIRE)

• Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986

• Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2007

• National Labor Relations Act of 1947

• Newborns’ and Mothers’ Health Protection Act of 1996

• Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970

• Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

• Uniform Guidelines on Employee Selection Procedures of 1978

• Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994

Some of these laws are outlined on posters that must be posted conspicuously in the workplace.

These can be obtained at no cost at www.dol.gov/whd/resources/posters.htm or http://www.dol.gov/oasam/boc/osdbu/sbrefa/poster/matrix.htm.

Additionally, employers must post the Alabama Child Labor Law poster. It and other posters can be obtained at www.labor.alabama.gov/docs/doc_type.aspx?id=2.

The Small Business Administration has written Human Resources 101-A Quick Guide for Employers that is available online at www.sba.gov/blogs/human-resources-101-quick-guide-employers.

If you know of a business interested in benefiting from joining the Chamber, please contact LaRhonda Robinson at (334) 792-5138

or lrobinson@dothan.com.

YOuRchAmber

Attention Members!

ConnectionsCONNECTIONSC H A M B E R

Chamber Connections is published monthly (USPS 700-660) for the members of the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce, 102 Jamestown Blvd., Dothan, AL 36301. Subscription rate is $24 annually. Postmaster: Send address changes to Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 638, Dothan, AL 36302. Periodicals postage is paid at Dothan, AL and additional mailing office.

A Publication of theDothan Area Chamber of CommerceDecember 2014Vol. 42, No. 3 (USPS 700-660)© Copyright 2014

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Editor's Note: Sources for this information vary; call the Chamber for details. Data as of 11/06/14. Visit www.dothan.com for the most current information.

Labor Force for the Dothan MSA for September:61,973 in 2013; 61,722 in 2014

57,997 in 2013; 57,836 in 2014 Employed

Unemployment for the Dothan MSA for September:6.4% in 2013; 6.3% in 2014

Residential Building Permits for the City of Dothan for September:14 issued ($4.30 million) in 2013; 18 issued ($5.43 million) in 2014

Home Sales in Dothan for September:98 sold in 2013; 84 sold in 2014

Enplanements for Dothan Regional Airport for September:4,556 in 2013; 3,784 in 2014

Houston County & Dothan Sales and Use Tax Collections ($) for September:$1,341,232 in 2013; $1,351,068 in 2014 (County)

$4,714,161 in 2013; $4,594,076 in 2014 (City)

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