CONNECTIONS Connectionsdothan Area Chamber of Commerce June 2016

CONNECTIONS ConnectionsDothan Area Chamber of Commerce June 2016

AND THE FINALISTS ARE... 2016 Small Business Person PAGE 5 WALLACE OFFERS Speakers Bureau PAGE 7 STRENGTHENING Business Policies PAGE 14 What’s EventsCalendar June S M T W T F S INSIDE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 May 2016 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

2 Events Calendar 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

3 Ribbon Cuttings 26 27 28 29 30 5 Cover Story 6-11 Business Briefs 1 Ribbon Cutting: Betts Realty – 10:30 a.m. Location: 2323 W. Main St., Suite 102 12 Grow Dothan 2 Ribbon Cutting: Auto Expo – 10:30 a.m. Location: 4083 Ross Clark Circle 13 Workforce Development Leadership Dothan Class 34 Graduation Banquet – 6:30 p.m. 14-15 Small Business Development Location: 126 Museum Ave. (Wiregrass Museum of Art and Conference Center) 7 Ribbon Cutting: Greystone United Methodist Church – 11 a.m. Also In This Issue Location: 4401 Fortner St. 8 Ribbon Cutting: SpectraCare Health Systems Inc.’s Access to Care Program – 8:30 a.m. 8 Praestare Welcomes Location: 3542 Montgomery Highway (Next to Pep Boys) Kearley To Team 9 Small Business Seminar: Social Security As A Cornerstone Of A Sound Retirement Income Plan – 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber) 10 Pickle Promoted To *See page 15 for more information. Reservations required: (334) 792-5138

Market President Dothan Area Young Professionals’ Business Brews – 5:15 p.m. Location: 168 S. Foster St. (RJ Saxons, LLC dba KT’s) 13 Employment Of People Ribbon Cutting: JimPam Hydraulics – 10:30 a.m. With Disabilities Location: 287 Southgate Road 14 Troy University Small Business Counseling – 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber) *Reservations required: (334) 792-5138

Ribbon Cutting: Jesse’s Barber Shop, LLC – 10:30 a.m. Location: 1380 Westgate Parkway Your Cover Photo 15 Board of Directors’ Meeting – 8:15 a.m. Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber)

C H A M B E R Your cover photo features the Dothan Area Chamber 16 Ribbon Cutting: Fast Signs of Dothan – 10:30 a.m. CONNECTIONSJune 2016 ConnectionsDothan Area Chamber of Commerce of Commerce’s Small Business Location: 3160 W. Main St., Suite 6 Person of the Year 2016 award finalists - Bart Liddon, Bart Ribbon Cutting: Dothan Hematology & Oncology, PC – 2:30 p.m. Liddon Homes, LLC; and Kelli Location: 187 Healthwest Drive

AND THE FINALISTS ARE... Dillard and Vanita Sansom, 2016 Small Business Person Ribbon Cutting: JC Penney Co. Sephora Brand Launch – 10 a.m. PAGE 5 17 WALLACE OFFERS Dothan Real Estate Team; and Speakers Bureau Location: 900 Commons Drive, Suite 900 (Wiregrass Commons Mall) PAGE 7 Zack Whaley, Zack’s Family STRENGTHENING Business Policies PAGE 14 Restaurant and Catering. 21 Small Business Seminar: Building Relationships To Motivate – 8 a.m. Location: 102 Jamestown Blvd. (Chamber) *See page 15 for more information. Reservations required: (334) 792-5138 22 Groundbreaking: Harley-Davidson of Dothan – 10:30 a.m. www.dothan.com Location: 2418 Ross Clark Circle (334) 792-5138 23 Ribbon Cutting: Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp. – 10:30 a.m. Location: 407 N. Shady Lane

2 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS JUNE 2016 RibbonCuttings

Cheeburger Cheeburger 4871 Montgomery Highway, Suite 1 Dothan, AL 36303 Charlie Eich (334) 678-0202 www.cheeburger.com RESTAURANTS Thank you! Your membership is an investment in the future of your business and the economic progress of the Wiregrass area. Bright Key Academic Room At Selma Street Elementary School 1501 W. Selma St. Dothan, AL 36301 Melanie Hill (334) 793-1397, ext. 226 SCHOOLS

Shirley’s Shack 919 E. Newton St. Dothan, AL 36303 Shirley Reaves (334) 350-6481 RESTAURANTS

Schedule A Ribbon Cutting!

Are you a new Chamber member? Has your business expanded or GROUNDBREAKING relocated? Are you breaking ground for a new facility? If you answered Rock-n-Roll Sushi 103 Apple Ave. yes to any of these questions, you may want to schedule a Chamber Dothan, AL Ribbon Cutting or Goundbreaking event. Candice Maddox These events take place weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and (334) 479-8777 Thursdays. Chamber staff will work with you to choose the date and time that best fits your schedule. Your event will be included in the Calendar of Events section of the Chamber Connections and your picture will also be featured in the newsletter after the event. For more information or to book an event, contact Hayden Camp, director of membership, at (334) 792-5138 or [email protected].

RELOCATION Register Realty Co. Inc. 203 Jamestown Blvd., Suite 2 Dothan, AL 36301 Forrest Register (334) 793-2440 www.registerrealtycompany.com REAL ESTATE – RESIDENTIAL AND/OR COMMERCIAL

www.dothan.com 3 Clip and add these to your NewMembers Membership Directory.

AIM Group Dothan Hematology & Krewe of Kolosse Inc. TAKS Towing Ben Freeman Oncology, PC Harry Hall Kim Patrick 304 Glencoe Way Venty Butts 100 Adris Place 311 Hillman St. Dothan, AL 36305 187 Healthwest Drive Dothan, AL 36303 Dothan, AL 36301 Ph: (334) 200-8420 Dothan, AL 36303 Ph: (334) 793-2424 Ph: 850 426-1071 www.aimgr.com Ph: (334) 792-9500 NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION www.takstowing.com INVESTMENTS HEALTH CARE TOWING & RECOVERY KT’s Tavern (RJ Saxons, LLC) Auto Expo Inc. Fairway Independent Jason Mouniz Techway Automotive, LLC Mike Jones Mortgage Corp. 168 South Foster Street Brian Ordway 4083 Ross Clark Circle Austin Parker Dothan, AL 36303 150 Ross Clark Circle Dothan, AL 36303 407 N. Shady Lane Ph: (334) 796-7654 Dothan, AL 36303 Ph: (334) 673-1818 Dothan, AL 36301 RESTAURANTS Ph: (334) 699-3700 Fax: (334) 673-1819 Ph: (334) 350-3770 Fax: (334) 699-3707 AUTOMOBILE SALES & SERVICE Fax: (866) 728-3292 Moe’s Southwest Grill www.techwayautomotive.com www.fairwaydothan.com Stacey Harrison AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR Betts Realty MORTGAGES 4521 Montgomery Highway, Suite 5 Gloria Betts PO Box 9611 Twin Scissors Salon & Barber 2323 W. Main St., Suite 102 Gulf Coast Truck & Equipment Dothan, AL 36304 Rachel Tyson Dothan, AL 36301 Webb Dismukes Ph: (334) 685-8565 1410 S. Oates St., Suite 1 Ph: (334) 699-4001 736 Twitchell Road Fax: (334) 671-1436 Dothan, AL 36301 Fax: (334) 699-4001 Dothan, AL 36303 www.moes.com BEAUTY SALONS REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL Ph: (334) 794-2695 RESTAURANTS AND/OR COMMERCIAL Fax: (334) 794-4278 United Rentals www.gulfcoasttruck.com Rock-N-Roll Sushi Jonathan Smith Borden Dairy Co. TRUCK & TRAILER DEALER Candice Maddox 1321 Montgomery Highway of Alabama, LLC TRUCK PARTS & SERVICE 103 Apple Avenue Dothan, AL 36303 Brian McClernon Dothan, AL 36305 Ph: (334) 793-1103 5014 U.S. Highway 84 East Thomas Harrison Ph: (334) 479-8777 Fax: (334) 793-7148 Cowarts, AL 36321 2645 State Highway 173 Fax: (334) 649-3000 www.unitedrentals.com Ph: (334) 792-5114 Newville, AL 36353 RESTAURANTS RENTAL SERVICE STORES & Fax: (334) 702-6872 Ph: (334) 596-6644 YARDS www.bordendairy.com INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP Sun Loan Co. DAIRIES Deanna Orshall IPA Famliy 3123 Ross Clark Circle Clear Channel Airports George Adams Dothan, AL 36303 Elizabeth Ruhmel 403 Cypress Glade Cove Ph: (334) 678-0073 7450 Tilghman St., Suite 104 Midland City, AL 36350 Fax: (334) 678-0094 Allentown, PA 18106 Ph: 573 528-5158 www.sunloan.com Ph: (610) 395-8002 INSURANCE TAX SERVICES Fax: (610) 395-4450 MORTGAGES LOANS www.clearchannelairports.com ADVERTISING

RenewingMembers

40 Or More Years Headland Area Chamber of Commerce 10-14 Years 1-4 Years Parkway Motor Co. Inc. King Church Furniture Inc. Computer Printing Etc. Steamboat Custom Homes, LLC Morris Realty Co. Summer Wood Townhomes Tabor Pest Control Badcock & More McDonald’s of Dothan Jeffers Inc. Edward Jones - Les Pinckard Engineered Systems Inc. WOW! Business Farley Nuclear Visitors Center J & S Mortician Service, LLC Diversified Logistics, LLC Harden’s Welding & Repair ParsonsGroup, LLC Unifirst Corp. Wiregrass Surgical Associates Service Industrial Supply Harris Security Systems Inc. Birmingham Theological Seminary - 30-39 Years Evergreen Presbyterian Church Dothan Campus 20/20 Eye Care 20-24 Years Playmaker Embroidery, LLC Dothan Regional Airport Harden Enterprises 5-9 Years Alden Services Action Computer Sales and Service Inc. Emmanuel Christian School Dermatology Specialists of Alabama Armstrong & Jordan, PC Branton Land Surveyors Jim Skinner Honda Five Guys Burgers & Fries Morgan Stanley Dothan School of Dance Avadian Credit Union Holiday Inn Hotel B & W Closets, Mirrors & More Inc. Kirkland Jewelry Cox Swimming Pools Inc. Martin Environmental Services Inc. E.K. Kitchen SpectraCare Health Systems Inc. Dyna-Lift Inc. The Daughtry Group Gencon Associates Inc. Cedar Heights Apartments Michael S. Nowell, DDS Dothan Steel Fabricators Davis Body Shop Michelin North America Inc. Wesley Manor Retirement Center Eye Doctor’s Office Inc. Bradshaw’s Jewelers Coffman International Inc. Wiregrass Systems Inc. Dothan Livestock Co. Donofro Architects Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites James Sims 25-29 Years 15-19 Years C & M Sporting Goods Wiregrass Habitat for Humanity Inc. Christ Church International Cook’s Pest Control Marty Robbins Roofing Co. Inc. Oncology Supply Co. Inc. Gentiva Home Health and Hospice Express Oil Change & Service Center Hardwick & Son Printing Inc. Southeast Alabama Regional Planning Barstone Apartments & Development Commission

4 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS JUNE 2016 CoverStory And The Finalists Are... Chamber Announces 2016 Small Business Person Of The Year Finalists

The Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2016 Small Business Week celebrations took place May 9-13. The entire week was filled with several great informative seminars and exciting activities paying tribute to the area’s small businesses and the contributions they make to the economy. In planning the 2016 activities, Membership Director Hayden Camp and the Chamber staff strived to include events that would connect, celebrate, inspire and educate members, while at the same time honoring them - America’s entrepreneurs. The highlight of the week took place during the General Membership Luncheon held May 10 when the finalists for the organization’s Small Business Person of the Year award were announced. A large number of well-deserving small business persons are Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman Forrest Register (right), Register nominated each year for this award. The nominees are ranked on a Realty Co. Inc., congratulates the 2016 Small Business Person of the Year finalists Zach point system that recognizes leadership in the community, customer Whaley, Zack’s Family Restaurant and Catering; Kelli Dillard and Vanita Sansom, Dothan Real Estate Team; and Bart Liddon, Bart Liddon Homes, LLC. satisfaction, business appearance and image, and professional and civic involvement. Criteria require that nominees reside in the Wiregrass area and own or operate a business with no more than 25 employees. The finalists are … Bart Liddon, Bart Liddon Homes, LLC; Kelli Dillard and Vanita Sansom, Dothan Real Estate Team; and Zack Whaley, Zack’s Family Restaurant and Catering. The 2016 award winner will be announced at the Chamber’s Annual Banquet being held Oct. 11. You won’t want to miss it! Before announcing the finalists, last year’s award winner Dutch Holland, owner of Harley-Davidson of Dothan, provided a great overview of what it means to him to be a small business owner since 1972 and being the Chamber’s 2015 award recipient. Later in the program, Susan and Mark Anderson, owners of Dothan’s Eagle Eye Outfitters Inc., were the guest speakers. Eagle Eye Outfitters is the largest independently-owned outdoor retailer in the southeast and was also recently recognized as one of the top 100 Outdoor Sports Retailers by New York magazine. “We are humbled to be a part of this event today. To be a part of this great community of business owners that we hold such high regard and respect for,” said Susan Anderson in her opening remarks. “We both consider this a huge honor to be asked to share our story with you today.” While reviewing Eagle Eye’s history and the company’s growth since Thank you to our Small Business Week General Membership Luncheon guest speakers its foundation in 1999, Susan Anderson noted that they are always Susan and Mark Anderson, Eagle Eye Outfitters Inc. looking for additional opportunities to serve their customers, their staff and to serve their community with the resources that God has blessed to be courageous enough to trust God with all that we have and to them with. “We’ve got our eyes open and our palms up ready to serve understand that everything we have comes from Him so that He can you and ready to accept whatever our Lord’s plans are for the next receive glory from how we use His possessions; and to serve others season of our journey,” she concluded. instead of being serviced. “Have the audacity to live a life where people Following his wife with some additional remarks, Mark Anderson really do matter most,” he concluded. opened stating, “When you take a second to reflect on the Eagle Eye Additional events throughout Small Business Week included a Good timeline that Susan gave, it is at times overwhelming to consider the Morning Networking event and four educational seminars: The Power journey we have been on for the past 18 years.” of the Inbox, Workplace Safety – First Aid and CPR, The Path To Throughout his remarks, Mark Anderson continuously came back to Successful Hiring, and Nonprofit Funding Strategies and Making Data the main core value of Eagle Eye Outfitters that “people matter most.” Work For You. That this is the driving factor that drives every decision they make A special thank you is extended to the Andersons; Pastor Ralph from how they teach their team members to serve customers, to how Sigler, from Harvest Church, for proving the luncheon our GM and who they hire, to the service projects they get involved with in the luncheon sponsors Cook’s Pest Control and Dothan-Houston County community. Substance Abuse Partnership. “Every day we open our doors understanding that we would not be anywhere without our customers,” explained Mark Anderson. See pages 14-15 for pictures and bios of the 2016 finalists and event In closing, Mark Anderson had a two-fold challenge for members: pictures.

www.dothan.com 5 Ambassadors&Diplomats Two Great Publications, Team Of The Month One Great Idea!

Ad Sales Campaign Currently Underway

Ultra Impact You want to reach new residents and the business community. They want to know how to find you. The best way to achieve both goals is to advertise in the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2017 Dothan’s Official Welcome Guide and the 2017 Membership Directory & Business Guide.

The Dothan Area Chamber and Print Services Inc., the Chamber member awarded this project, have begun the ad sales campaign for these 2017 publications. Chamber members (primary contact and/or advertising agent) recently began receiving the Chamber’s project introduction letter, verification form(s) and a “Reserve Your Space” brochure.

Print Services will be contacting members about the advertising opportunities and has a media kit available online at www.psiprinter.com.

The Welcome Guide and Membership Directory & Business Guide will be mailed to Chamber members in late January Congratulations to the Ambassador and Diplomat Team of the 2017. High visibility through great distribution has been the Month “Ultra Impact” for claiming this month’s title. Pictured key to the Welcome Guide’s success. Increased usage of the Adrienne Hall Tara Ryals (seated l-r) are , Hilton Garden Inn; , Troy Membership Directory is a direct result of its convenience Kristy Trusty Chris Bailey University; , “Dothan Eagle”; (standing) , to find fellow business members to promote our business- Adam Saucer Brittan Jones Residence Inn by Marriot; , Mass Mutual; , to-business relationships. Don’t miss out on these important Stacey Brackin The Computer Doctor; , Wiregrass Rehabilitation publications! Your company will benefit greatly by reaching Rob Heffner Pat Center Inc.; and , Flowers Insurance. Not pictured is all who look to the Dothan Area Chamber for information Evans , Evans Automotive Service. about Dothan businesses in 2017. 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 Distribution of the Welcome Guide (10,000) includes dedication and support that assist your local Chamber in meeting its economic development prospects, new residents, prospective goals. retirees and relocation families requesting information Be sure to check out next month’s Chamber Connections to see who through the Chamber, 15 Chamber member apartment will claim the title. complexes for new residents, 15 Chamber member hotels/ motels in-room distribution and the Dothan Utilities and Wiregrass Electric Authority offices to all new service Star Of The Month customers. Great web exposure is another avenue of distribution for the 2017 Welcome Guide. The publication will be on the following websites: The City of Dothan, Houston County, Dothan Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce and Print Services Inc.

For more information about this opportunity, please contact:

(334) 702-4063 (334) 712-6532 Fax www.psiprinter.com Kassie Glover Avadian Credit Union

6 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS JUNE 2016 BusinessBriefs Hallford Joins Carr Allison’s Dothan Office

Carr Allison is Carr Allison is one of the fastest growing pleased to announce civil litigation firms in the Southeast, with that Pamela Springrose more than 90 attorneys and offices located Hallford is now in Birmingham, Dothan, Florence and a resident in its Mobile, Alabama, as well as Tallahassee and Dothan office. After Jacksonville, Florida, Gulfport, Mississippi practicing in the and Chattanooga, Tennessee. firm’s Birmingham Carr Allison serves a variety of clients office the past four ranging from privately-owned businesses Pamela Springrose Hallford, years, Hallford is now to Fortune 500 companies. Carr Allison’s Attorney able to assist clients in attorneys provide a full range of litigation the Wiregrass region on an array of topics from services and are experienced in the legal 2-1-1 Presents Sip, real estate to products liability to construction needs of many industries including retail, Celebrate And Give defects to commercial transportation. transportation, manufacturing, health care, The move provides an exciting opportunity construction and professional and business Wiregrass United Way 2-1-1, Southeast will for Hallford to expand Carr Allison’s presence services. host its eighth-year anniversary celebration and and better serve people in the Wiregrass. She For more information, or to contact fundraiser Sip, Celebrate and Give Thursday, looks forward to becoming an integral part of Hallford, call (334) 712-6459 or visit www. June 16, from 6-8 p.m. at The Grand on Foster. the Dothan community. carrallison.com. The fundraising event will include live acoustical music by Christopher Robinson, a cash bar and hors d’oeuvres. A silent auction will also take place to help raise the much needed funds for the organization and also to help promote the 2-1-1 Club. What’s the 2-1-1 Club? The purpose of the 2-1-1 Club is to get 211 individuals to Wallace Offers Speakers Bureau To Area Organizations contribute $100 each to Wiregrass United Way 2-1-1 annually. In addition, for individuals Wallace Community College is well known There are an array of topics, including making a financial contribution for this event, for the educational opportunities it provides Adult Education and GED, Living Life a donor will match their contribution dollar for to the Wiregrass area. The mission of a after Suicide, Developing a Choral Program, community college is to bring resources closer Speech and Theatre, Criminal Justice, dollar. to home, and WCC instructors are reaching Drafting and Design, Leadership for the Every hour of every day, people need out to share their expertise with area civic 21st Century, Leadership Throughout the essential human services, but have no idea organizations, special interest groups, church Organization, among others. where to find them in times of personal crisis groups or high school classes. The WCC There are also academic topics such as or disaster. Dialing 2-1-1 is the first step toward Speakers Bureau is stocked with qualified Improving Science and Technical Education regaining stability. With 2-1-1, information is faculty and staff who are experts in their through Laboratory Enhancements, free and available 24/7 at your fingertips with fields, looking to share their interests with Mathematics and Developmental Math, How one simple phone call, text message, email or groups outside of the college. to Build A Writing Center, Adult Education website visit. Wiregrass United Way 2-1-1 is Speakers come free of charge, unless and GED Preparation, Pack Their Parachute: changing lives, for good. otherwise noted. Requests for long-distance Ways to Prepare Middle and High School Tickets are $25 each or two for $40. For trips may include additional charges. Many Students for the “Jump” into Post-Secondary speakers can arrange their schedules for Education. tickets or additional information, contact daytime presentations for the convenience of For more information and additional topics, David Duke at (334) 836-1963 or drop the area schools and organization with planned go to www.wallace.edu/speakersbureau or 2-1-1 office at 545 W. Main St., Suite 313, daytime meetings. call (334) 556-2629. Dothan.

YOURCHAMBER

Spotlight your business. Get more exposure!

As a Chamber member, you are entitled to one free business card ad in the Chamber’s monthly newsletter, Chamber Connections, within 90 days from the date you join. For more information, contact Melia McKean at (334) 792-5138 or [email protected].

www.dothan.com 7 BusinessBriefs Praestare Welcomes Whatley Darty Welcomes New Agents

Kearley To Team Whatley Darty is at (334) 792-6826 or email sgrubbs147@ gmail.com Praestare excited to introduce . Engineering Inc. is readers to its newest Simmons has been a part of the United pleased to announce sales professional’s States Air Force Reserve for over 12 years and Gene Kearley, PE, Shaelee Grubbs and is an accomplished professional now bringing has joined its team Tiesha Simmons. her abundant energy and passion to the real as a senior civil Grubbs is an estate industry. As a realtor who specializes engineer. In his extremely enthusiastic in residential properties, she is equipped with role, Kearley will person by nature and a natural “get the job done” talent that will be responsible for Shaelee Grubbs, that enthusiasm will certainly aid clients in accomplishing their real Realtor certainly be beneficial estate goals. Gene Kearley, project development Senior Civil Engineer and design, along with in her real estate Simmons earned a bachelor’s degree in project management career. She is an honor psychology from Troy University and is to ensure suitable measures are taken to identify graduate of Rehobeth scheduled to graduate with a master’s degree and correct issues which may arise during the life High School and from Liberty University in the spring 2016. of projects. also graduated from Simmons and her husband Enrique have Kearly brings over 30 years of engineering Wallace College as a two children, Amari and Stephon. She is also experience in planning, designing and project certified cosmetologist. eager to assist clients in all their real estate management of civil, environmental and Grubbs and her needs. To contact her, call (334) 589-3515 or [email protected] industrial projects. He also brings expertise in husband Wesley have email . regulatory compliance with various agencies 4-year-old twin boys, based on engineering best management Tiesha Simmons, Westin and Gavin. Realtor practices. She and her family are A graduate of Auburn University, Kearley members of Harvest lives in Dothan with his wife Wanda and enjoys Church. She is excited about her career in real outdoor activities such as turkey hunting and estate and looks forward to helping clients find deer hunting. He also enjoys officiating high the home of their dreams. You can contact her school football. To contact Kearly or for more information on the services Praestare Engineering offers, call (334) 699-8703 or visit www. Less waiting where it matters praestareengineering.com. Faster. most – our emergency room. In a medical emergency, every minute matters. So, at CHAMBERCORRECTION Flowers Hospital, you’ll find faster care in the emergency room. We work diligently to have you initially seen by a medical professional* in 30 minutes – or less. And, with Please note the following correction and a team of dedicated medical specialists, we can provide we apologize for any inconveniences: a lot more care, if you need it. The name for the Cogito Mental Health Services, LLC ribbon cutting picture was The 30-Minutes-Or-Less E.R. Service Pledge – misspelled in the May 2016 issue. only at Flowers Hospital.

FlowersHospital.com

*Medical professionals may include physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners.

8 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS JUNE 2016 89384_FLOW_ERpldg_4_75x4_1875.indd 1 1/12/16 5:08 PM BusinessBriefs There’s A New Peanut Upcoming Member Events In Town Poplar Head Farmer’s Market Foster Fest Safelite AutoGlass is proud to announce that Every Saturday • 8 a.m. June 17 • 6-10 p.m. there’s a new peanut in town at the company’s Corner of Main and St. Andrews streets. Foster Street Downtown Dothan. This Dothan store located at 3765 Ross Clark Circle. This is an open air market featuring fresh is a free, pet-friendly event showcasing Be sure to stop by and check him out! locally-grown vegetables, fruit, flowers, downtown Dothan, the local arts, crafts, herbs, etc. For more information, call music scene, businesses and classic cars. the Downtown Dothan Redevelopment For more information, call the Downtown Authority at (334) 699-8118 or visit Dothan Redevelopment Authority at www.ddra.org. (334) 699-8118 or visit www.ddra.org.

Music By Moonlight Play in the Clay Summer Art Camp June 16 and 30 • 7:30 p.m. June 27-30 • Times Vary Landmark Park. Pack a picnic supper, Wiregrass Museum of Art and bring the family and friends and enjoy Conference Center. Experienced local an evening of great music under the stars potter Lynn Koning will instruct a in a relaxed, informal setting. Free to hands-on clay camp where campers attend. For more information, call the will create several whimsical pieces. park at (334) 794-3452 or visit www. Campers return in late July to glaze landmarkparkdothan.org. their work and pick up their finished pieces. Camp times are 11a.m.-noon ages 6-8; 1-2 p.m. ages 9-12. To register, call (334) 794-3871 or visit www. wiregrassmuseum.org.

Have an upcoming event planned? Send your event information to [email protected]

Food Bank Receives Donation To Fight Hunger

The Wiregrass Area Food Bank recently received a check from Publix Super Markets Inc. for $8,707 as part of its “Food For All” campaign. This year, the campaign funded 175 charities across the Southeast. Publix Super Markets Inc. recently distributed more than $3.73 million total to nonprofit organizations across its southeastern footprint. The annual event distributes funds to support programs that fight hunger and advocate for self-sufficiency on a local and regional level. Dothan Publix Store Managers Jeff Collins, Keir Major and Jared Davis recently presented the check to the Food Bank’s Executive Director David Hanks. The funds were collected in the Dothan and Enterprise stores through the donation campaign. For more information, contact Julie Gonzalez, Food Bank development Dothan Publix Store Managers Jeff Collins, Keir Major and Jared Davis present a check director, at (334) 794-9775 or visit www.wiregrassfoodbank.com. for $8,707.38 to Wiregrass Area United Way Food Bank Executive Director David Hanks.

YOURCHAMBER

Did You Receive Your Verification Form? In preparation for the upcoming production of the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2017 Membership Directory and Business Guide, Chamber members were sent their membership verification form May 1. If you have not already received your Verification form through the mail, please contact Hayden Camp, director of membership, at (334) 792-5138 or email [email protected]. The deadline for submission is Monday, Aug. 29, 2016.

www.dothan.com 9 BusinessBriefs Pickle Promoted To BBVA Compass Announcements

Market President BBVA Compass mortgage originator, with 1 4 of those years Ameris Bank announced recently previously in the role of mortgage banking Heidi Condrey was officer at BBVA Compass, where she was Chief Banking promoted to pro- consistently a Circle of Excellence and Gold Officer for Georgia fessional and private Club honoree. Cobb returns to the bank and Alabama, banker and Marsha where she has become known throughout Lawton Bassett, Cobb was named the area for a high level of responsiveness, alongside Dothan mortgage banking diligence in finding the best solution and Market President officer for the rate for the client, and work ethic. Harry Pittman Heidi Condrey, southeast Alabama “There is no one more deserving of these recently announced Professional And Private market. positions than Heidi and Marsha,” said Jeff Tracy Pickle, Tracy Pickle had Banker Market President Condrey served Williams, southeast Alabama market president. been promoted to previously as the “Heidi consistently goes above and beyond the role of market president for the greater market’s business for our clients and her integrity has been a Dothan market. Pickle will work alongside banking officer. In calling card for her throughout her career. She Pittman until his retirement in June ensuring her new role, she will fully understands the high level of service and a smooth leadership transition. utilize her 16 years unique requirements of our private banking Pickle will be responsible for all core- of small business clients. We are so thrilled to have Marsha back banking activities throughout greater Dothan, and private banking with us. Her reputation and knowledge in the which includes oversight of Ameris Bank experience to uni- mortgage industry is among the very best. We locations in Dothan, Abbeville and Eufaula versally manage all are highly confident that our mortgage clients Alabama, and Donalsonville and Colquitt, Marsha Cobb, banking needs for are in the most capable hands.” Georgia. Mortgage Banking Officer the bank’s private For more information, contact Al Ortiz, “Tracy is an outstanding leader and banking clients in the Corporate Communications, at (281) 433- an exceptional, experienced banker. His area, with an emphasis on needs of professionals, 5640, email [email protected] or visit www. knowledge of the market, widespread business owners, and their firms. bbvacompass.com. banking and lending background, and Cobb has 25-years of experience as a valuable experience will help us expand our reach throughout the market, giving us the opportunity to provide our one-on-one, exceptional banking service to both consumer WITH STROKE,TIME LOST IS BRAIN LOST. and commercial customers,” said Pittman, Pickle has more than 15 years of financial SAMC is the region’s first hospital and banking experience, previously serving as to earn the prestigious Gold Plus Ameris Bank commercial banker and market Stroke Award from the American president for Donalsonville and Colquitt. Heart Association and American Prior to joining Ameris Bank, he served in Stroke Association. leadership and lending roles at Wachovia From the area’s first responders Bank and SouthTrust Bank. to SAMC’s highly trained stroke For more information, contact Kelli Pylant at team of physicians, nurses and clinical team members, patients (334) 340-2041, email kelli.pylant@amerisbank. receive the latest stroke care com or visit www.amerisbank.com. SAMC IS THE REGION’S GOLD available. STANDARD FOR STROKE CARE. This means a coordinated and YOURCHAMBER quicker response time, which in turn means less damage caused Attention PROVIDING PATIENTS THE by the stroke. Members! HIGHEST LEVEL OF ADVANCED If you know of a business interested in STROKE CARE. benefiting from joining the Chamber, please contact Hayden Camp at (334) 1108 Ross Clark Circle 792-5138 or [email protected]. Top 10% in nation for patient safety Dothan, Alabama 36301 334-793-8111 samc.org

10 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS JUNE 2016 Don’t Miss Out On These Great Sponsorship Opportunities!

The Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce hosts several exciting events throughout the year and we have some great sponsorship opportunities that you might be interested in. If you are interested in taking advantage of any of the listed opportunities, please call Hayden Camp at (334) 792-5138 or email hcamp@ dothan.com. These opportunities are limited and available on a first-come basis.

Annual Meeting Luncheon – Oct. 11, 2016 This is the Chamber’s premiere event of the year and takes place each October. The Annual Meeting is usually held as a lunch event. There are four levels of sponsorships available. The levels and benefits you receive are listed below:

• Diamond Sponsor (one available) - $2,000 “Premiere” logo recognition in the event invitation and the program; recognition at the event during the program; banner recognition at the event (banner provided); two reserved front tables (seats 16); and a five-minute opportunity to promote your business from the podium during the event. • Platinum Sponsor (two available) - $1,500 Logo recognition (placed under Diamond sponsor’s logo) in the event invitation and the program; logo recognition at the event during the program; banner recognition at the event (banner provided with both platinum sponsor’s logos); and two reserved front tables (seats 16). • Gold Sponsor (four available) - $1,000 Logo recognition (placed under Platinum sponsors’ logos) in the event invitation and the program; recognition at the event during the program; banner recognition at the event (banner provided with all the gold sponsor’s logos); and one reserved front table (seats eight). • Silver Sponsor (six available) - $500 Name recognition only (no logo) in event invitation and program; recognition from the podium during the program; banner recognition at the event (banner provided with all the silver sponsor’s business names listed); and four tickets at a reserved front table.

General Membership Meetings - January, May 10 (Small Business Week), July Date will be determined by speaker availability and these meetings will be held as a breakfast or luncheon. There is an expected attendance of 200 to 300 at each event. The sponsorship cost is $350 and you will receive the following benefits: • One table of eight ($150 value) on the front row; • Recognition during the meeting from the podium; • Opportunity to place marketing pieces on a display table at the event; • Placement of your logo on a table tent card at each guest table at the event; • Announcement of the event in the Chamber Connections newsletter highlighting your business as a sponsor; • Inclusion of you logo in any information distributed about the event (giving you optimal advertising and awareness of your business); and • Listing of the event on the Chamber Facebook page, promotion of the event in email blasts to Chamber members and inclusion of the event on the Chamber website calendar.

The Network Exchange - August, November, March, June The Network Exchange is the Chamber’s “after-hours” networking event. The event will be held from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. or 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and includes a cash bar (evening event), hors d’oeuvres and great networking opportunities. There is an expected attendance of 50-75 at the event. The sponsorship cost is $250 and you will receive the following benefits:

• Opportunity to place marketing pieces on a display table at the event; • Announcement of the event in the Chamber Connections newsletter highlighting your business as a sponsor; • Inclusion of you logo in any information distributed about the event (giving you optimal advertising and awareness of your business); and • Listing of the event on the Chamber Facebook page, promotion of the event in email blasts to Chamber members and inclusion of the event on the Chamber website calendar.

Spotlight On Business – February 2017 Spotlight on Business is the area’s largest business trade show. The Chamber sells approximately 85 booths and has over 1,500 attendees at the event. The sponsorship cost is $1,000 and you will receive the following benefits: • One booth ($375 value); choice of booth placement before registration opens; • Announcement of the event in the Chamber Connections newsletter noting your business as a sponsor and including your logo; • Inclusion of you logo in any information distributed about the event, in the event program and on the postcard invitation mailed to the membership (giving you optimal advertising and awareness of your business); and • Listing of the event on the Chamber Facebook page, promotion of the event in email blasts to Chamber members and inclusion of the event on the Chamber website calendar.

www.dothan.com 11 GrowDothan Career-Tech Education Farewell To A Great Man!

Coming To Geneva The Southeast Alabama Medical Center County, City recently held a retirement reception for the hospital’s long-time Chief Executive Officer – The goal to expand career-tech education Ronald Owen. offered in Geneva County and Geneva City It has been said, “The life of a man consists not schools came to light at an announcement in mid- in seeing visions and in dreaming dreams, but in May. Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley and Alabama active charity and willing service.” Owen definitely National Guard Adjutant Gen. Perry G. Smith lived that life in numerous ways and deeds joined Geneva County officials to announce including his service in hospital administration the use of the Geneva National Guard Armory since 1973. He made significant contributions to to expand the Geneva County and Geneva City the health care community, including 18 years at schools’ career technical education programs. Southeast Alabama Medical Center and working By 2017, the armory located on Maple Avenue to create and establish the Alabama College of is expected to be used for CTE programs during Osteopathic Medicine in Dothan. the week and for drills by the Guard’s 173rd Owen has served his community with honor, Infantry Battalion on the weekends. dignity, service and kindness to individuals from Playing a large role in making all this possible every walk of life; and to this day, remains an was Alabama Rep. Donnie Chesteen, R-87th essential part of Dothan and Houston County’s District (Geneva, Houston). Chesteen stated, rich and vibrant health care community. “This move is going to change a lot of work ethics. The Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce It’s going to give hope to children who have had proudly recognized his leadership and longevity during the event and wants to thank him for his Forrest Register (right), Dothan Area Chamber of no hope. It’s going to break the cycle of settling Commerce chairman and Register Realty Co Inc., for entitlements and minimum wage.” many years of faithful service and salutes him for his unparalleled contributions to so many. presents a Chamber Proclamation to Ronald Owen in Chesteen also said the armory’s decision recognition of his community leadership and service over Best wishes to a great man. Ron, you will be to partner with the schools, as well as the the years to the Wiregrass area. community college system’s willingness to assist deeply missed! with new programs, gives the local students a greater chance for success. “We have a generation of children that have Strengthening The Wiregrass Region’s Business Policies come through the schools here with a mother and daddy not going to work since the textile industry Along with business organizations and 2,005 to make our communities attractive locations left several years ago,” added Chesteen. chambers from across the nation, the Dothan in which to live and start businesses. What will Area Chamber of Commerce this past month hurt them will hurt us. signed a letter opposing the proposed changes Employees of nonprofits routinely work to the overtime regulations. Last July the U.S. long and odd hours to serve their clients whose Department of Labor proposed a dramatic needs do not fall neatly into the typical eight- change to the regulations that determine hour workday, or 40-hour work week. To avoid whether a “white collar” employee (executive, this significant budget hit, many charitable administrative or professional) is eligible to be groups will be forced to reduce the amount of paid overtime for any hours worked beyond 40 emotional counseling, free medical care, and per week. other services for people and families in need. Rep. Donnie Chesteen, R-87th District (Geneva, Currently, if these employees are performing The Protecting Workplace Advancement Houston) outlines the advantages the expansion of the the “primary duties” of their classification and and Opportunity Act (S. 2707/H.R. 4773) Geneva National Guard Armory will play in student’s paid a salary more than $23,660 annually reflects the problems with the proposed rule. lives and workforce development. ($455/week), they are classified as exempt from First, it would nullify the proposed regulation being paid overtime. The new proposal would - either in its proposed stage, or if it has been increase that salary to $50,440 annually ($970/ finalized. week), and increase it annually. Second, the bill specifies that the Secretary If implemented, this higher salary will mean of Labor must conduct a detailed and extended many employers will have to either increase economic analysis identifying the impacts on their employees’ salaries to keep them exempt, employers that were ignored in the proposed or reclassify them as hourly employees and rule such as nonprofits, small governments, possibly pay them overtime. For many of Medicare and Medicaid dependent health our small businesses, and other employers, service providers, and academic institutions. this could mean a disastrous financial hit, or The economic analysis must also identify the reducing their ability to serve their customers. impacts in different regions of the country While much attention on the impact of and non-financial impact such as employee the proposed changes has rightly been on benefits, workplace flexibility, and career how typical for-profit employers will have to advancement opportunities. adjust, what has gotten inadequate attention One of the key goals of the DACC is to is the impact the new rule will have on the “sustain and strengthen the Wiregrass Region’s most vulnerable employers such as nonprofit business policies.” Joining this effort to stop charities, academic institutions and local and these regulations fits that goal and enhances the municipal governments, all of whom are unable Chamber’s mission “To serve as a catalyst for to increase their revenues to cover higher labor business and community development in the costs. These groups are our partners in helping tri-state region.”

12 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS JUNE 2016 WorkforceDevelopment Employment Of People With Disabilities Benefits The Employer, The Employee And The Economy

If you do not personally have a disability, Ellis’ job is to: you probably do not think about the effects of • reduce costs to employers by recruiting, training, and screening new disabilities too much. In Houston County, the employees; U.S. Census Bureau reports that 17,741 persons have disabilities. In the prime working age cohort • reduce employee turnover by matching job requirements with applicant of 18 to 64, 12,479 persons have disabilities, skills; but 59 percent of these people are unemployed • increase cash flow through wage reimbursement, pre-hire “try-outs,” compared to about 6.4 percent for the entire and other financial incentives; and county workforce. • Access consultant services like disability management (retaining If the people with disabilities were employed valuable workers), employer training (disability etiquette in the Steve Turkoski, at the same rate as the workforce in general, workplace/assisting your aging workforce), and ADA resources as well Project Manager that would mean 11,680 more people would be as technical assistance from the Dothan-area rehabilitation technology working and bringing home a paycheck. With a specialist. metropolitan statistical area annual mean wage of $36,850 that would mean $430,408,000 circulating in the local economy and self-sufficiency Ellis is happy to discuss how he can help your company find a good for a significant number of workers and families. employee fit from among the capable labor force that happens to have a In the Dothan area, there is assistance available for people with disability. To contact him or for more information, you can reach him at disabilities through Darryl Ellis, a business relations consultant working (334) 699-8600 (work) or (334) 303-4107 (cell). at the local office of the Vocational Rehabilitation Service, a division of You have the potential to not only help a capable worker but also to the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services. improve your organization’s bottom line and productivity.

Celebrating Week Of The Young Child DTC Conducts Mock Interviews

In recognition of the 2016 Week of the Young Child, Alabama The Dothan Technology Center recently hosted mock interviews for the Representatives Steve Clouse, R-93rd District (Dale, Houston); Dexter ninth grade Career Preparedness classes giving students the opportunity Grimsley D-85th District (Henry, Houston); and Paul Lee, R-86th District to practice their interview skills they’ve been learning in the classroom. (Houston) toured Faine Elementary School’s First Class Pre-K program. The idea behind this concept is that if students are able to go through Held this year April 10-16, Week of the Young Child is an annual an interview with a professional before there is a real job on the line, they celebration hosted by the National Association for the Education of Young will be able to perform better in a live situation. Children celebrating our youngest learners. Thank you to all the volunteers from Alabama Power, Dothan Career Pre-K initiatives play a vital role in the education, leadership, workforce Center, Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce, Farley Nuclear Plant, and economic development in every community providing a foundation Personnel Resources, Troy University and Wallace Community College for helping our youth in school and helping them to succeed in life. who helped make the event such a success. Thank you to each of our area legislators for their constant support and leadership in the continuous growth of Pre-K in Alabama.

Charles Nailen visits Faine Charles Nailen; Rep. Steve Clouse, R-93rd District Elementary School’s First Class (Dale, Houston); Bob Powers; Dexter Grimsley Pre-K program. D-85th District (Henry, Houston); and Paul Lee, R-86th District (Houston) tour Faine Elementary School’s First Class Pre-K program. The Dothan Technology Center conducts mock interviews. Local High School Students Receive Sony Scholarships

Two local area high school students recently were awarded Sony Electronics Scholarships. The Dothan Area Chamber Foundation and Sony Scholarship Selection Committee are pleased to announce the 2016 scholarship awardees are Kelsey Anderson, a Northview High School senior, and Emily Spivey, a Dothan High School senior, who were awarded $10,000 each. Anderson will be attending Auburn University to major in speech pathology. Spivey plans to attend Wallace Community College and then Troy University to pursue a nursing degree. Administered through the Dothan Area Chamber Foundation, this private scholarship program is open to seniors who attend Dothan High School or Northview High School. Kelsey Anderson Emily Spivey

www.dothan.com 13 SmallBusinessDevelopment Small Business Person Of the Year 2016 Finalists

Bart Liddon, Vanita Sansom Zack Whaley, Bart Liddon Homes, LLC and Kelli Dillard, Zack’s Family Restaurant Dothan Real Estate Team & Catering Beginning in 1976, Bart Liddon successfully Kelli Dillard and Zack Whaley was built custom homes in Vanita Sansom began born and raised the highly competitive their careers in the real in Warsaw, North Atlanta, Georgia market estate world in 2002, before returning home to joined forces as business Carolina. He is the do the same in 2002. partners as the first real fifth child out of six A native of Dothan, Liddon graduated from the estate team in 2004 and opened the doors of and moved to Dothan when he was 10. University of Alabama before receiving his master’s Dothan Real Estate Team in 2011. It has been Whaley remembers working as a degree in city planning from Georgia Tech. He has an exciting journey for these two independent, dishwasher at popular restaurant at age 11. been featured in the Wall Street Journal and is a two- hard working women. By age 18, he had worked in every area of a time winner of the prestigious Professionalism Award Dillard brings to the table her experience in from the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association. computer programming and a graduate from restaurant and decided to move on to factory Liddon has been named Builder of the Year by Troy University, has worked with computers life for the next 13 years. the Home Builders Association of Dothan and for 15 years. She was born and raised in the As life worked out, Whaley began his own The Wiregrass three times in the last six years. He quaint little town of Hartford, Alabama, where restaurant. Getting started, he had to use his was also voted by the public as Best Builder in this she grew up on a farm and enjoyed the small last $200 for change for the register. Through year’s Dothan Eagle’s Best of the Wiregrass contest. town family atmosphere. Her strengths are many hours of hard work and prayer, he has Liddon credits the National Association organization, research, getting to the point and survived many obstacles. Thanks to his wife, of Home Builders as a major contributor to a genuine desire to help people. his success, particularly in the areas of project Sansom earned her degree from Troy Dianne, they have been very blessed. They management, estimating, sales and marketing. As University in accounting and business, which both feel they have helped many employees. a way of giving back, he has served on the board has greatly enhanced her real estate skills. Some being with them for about 18 years. of directors of the NAHB on the local, state and Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, she moved Whaley says he has the pleasure of working national levels both in Atlanta and Dothan for to Dothan where she married, finished college with many young people, watching many of many years. He has been president of the Dothan and raised four children. She is proud of the them grow up and venture off to college, association twice. fact that she home schooled her children for Liddon believes passionately in trying to over 10 years. She says she became skilled including his own two children. His basic make Dothan a better place to live. He serves on in negotiating and conflict resolution. Her philosophy is “plan your work well, work Dothan’s Historic Preservation Commission. He strengths are her creativity, networking, your plan and supervise every step delegated is a member of several city-appointed committees leadership and that same desire to help people. to others. Ask them to do everything with including the committees to adopt a new building Community service involvement for Dillard excellence.” code and another to revise the city’s subdivision and Sansom includes Wiregrass Hope, Dothan Whaley thanks his customers and the regulations. Rotary, SARCOA, Turkeys From Heaven, Boys Wiregrass for blessing his family with their Liddon is a member of the State of Alabama and Girls Club and Wiregrass Museum of Region 10 Workforce Development Council. In Art. Their focus is serving their community, patronage over the years. He hopes they have 2015, he served as co-chair of the first Wiregrass personal growth and helping their team been a blessing to you in some small way. Works career expo that brought 4,200 eighth- succeed. graders from nine counties of southeast Alabama to Dothan to inspire them in making better educational and career choices and to know that there are many life-long and fulfilling career opportunities right here in the Wiregrass.

During the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s recent General Membership Luncheon, the 2016 Small Business Person of the Year finalists were announced. Pictured (l-r) with Chamber Chairman Forrest Register, Register Realty Co. Inc., are Bart Liddon, Bart Liddon Homes, LLC; Kelli Dillard and Vanita Sansom, Dothan Real Estate Team; and Zack Whaley, Zack’s Family Restaurant & Catering.

14 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS JUNE 2016 SmallBusinessDevelopment Small Business Week Events Mark Your Calendar For These Upcoming Small Business Seminars

Social Security As The Cornerstone Of A Sound Retirement Income Plan Dothan Area Chamber June 9 • 11:30 a.m.

Come join the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce for a seminar focusing on “Social Security As The Cornerstone Of A Sound Retirement Income Plan” Thursday, June 9, from 11:30 a.m. until 1p.m. We will explore the four common benefits available under Social Security: the Retirement benefit, the Spousal & Divorced spousal benefit, the Survivor benefit and Disability benefits. Participants will learn the key reasons to file early for benefits and learn the key reasons to delay filing for benefits. We will learn who is eligible for spousal, ex- spousal and survivor benefits, and what determines the amount of those benefits. In addition, participants will learn a key idea that may help them to permanently increase monthly lifetime benefits that is often overlooked. The seminar will also review the new rules for claiming Social Security benefits that took effect on May 2, 2016, for those over age 66, for those over age 62 before 2016 and for those who turn 62 in 2016 and beyond. Finally, the seminar will end talking about the earnings limit and taxation of Social Security benefits. The cost is $10 per person, which includes a box lunch. Pre-registration is required by noon Tuesday, June 7. To pre-register, contact Susan Tatom at (334) 792-5138. 9

Building Relationships To Motivate Dothan Area Chamber June 21 • 8-9:30 a.m.

In today’s business climate expectations are higher than ever. Today we have to run the gauntlet of new generations as well as the level of engagement throughout our organization. Successful business leaders know that their success is directly tied to how well they support and motivate their teams. Join the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce and David Balmer, Emerald Coast Dale Carnegie Training for a “Building Relationships To Motivate” seminar Tuesday, June 21, from 8 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. You will get the chance to learn and practice a simple process that will allow you to understand your employees better and understand what drives them. The cost is $5 per person and pre-registration is required by noon Thursday, June 16. To pre-register, contact Susan Tatom at (334) 792-5138.

EconomicIndicators Labor Force for the Dothan MSA for March: 62,280 in 2015; 62,401 in 2016 58,547 in 2015; 58,578 in 2016 Employed Unemployment for the Dothan MSA for March: 6.0% in 2015; 6.1% in 2016 Residential Building Permits for the City of Dothan for March: 22 issued ($4.92 million) in 2015; 22 issued ($5.95 million) in 2016 Home Sales in Dothan for March: 88 sold in 2015; 103 sold in 2016 Enplanements for Dothan Regional Airport for March: 3,731 in 2015; 4,547 in 2016 Houston County & Dothan Sales and Use Tax Collections ($) for March: $1,451,462 in 2015; $1,502,420 in 2016 (County) $4,859,490 in 2015; $5,306,319 in 2016 (City)

Editor's Note: Sources for this information vary; call the Chamber for details. Data as of 5/11/16. Visit www.dothan.com for the most current information.

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.

DOTHAN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE meetingmeeting the challenge shapingshaping the future www.dothan.com