APRIL - JULY 2015
April Events Cornerstone Church hosted the Chamber’s April 2, Business and Biscuits at their 2885 Choccolocco Road location in Anniston. April 21, F&M Bank hosted and sponsored the Business After Hours for the Chamber at their Oxford branch and celebrated their 100th Anniversary. Congratulations F&M Bank and thank you for your support of the Chamber!
Once a semester, the Chamber hosts "Get Linked" at the Hampton Inn in Jacksonville, to provide students the opportunity to connect with area professionals and employers of all levels. Thank you to our April panelists Shannon Jenkins of the United Way, Brigitte Sailors of Kelly Services, Tommie Goggans of the Goggans Group and thank you to Struts for providing food for our attendees.
16 attendees joined us for our first Social Media Boot Camp, April 23. Everything from Facebook, to twitter, to Pinterest, YouTube, Instagram and more were covered, but that's what made it a boot camp.
Lunch and Leads was held on April 8, at Prime Dining & Bar with 33 members attending.
April 18, the City of Jacksonville was colorful with the Chamber’s 2015 Whirlwind of Color 5K, raising funds for the JSU and GSCC Scholarship Foundations.
April 29, Youth Leadership Calhoun County celebrated their graduation at the Civilian Marksmanship Program in Anniston. Each year, high school principals and counselors identify high school juniors who exhibit high leadership potential and concern for their community and nominate them for the Chamber's Youth Leadership Program. For more information, call the Chamber at 256-237-3536.
May Events
May 7, Anniston Country Club hosted the Chamber’s monthly Business and Biscuits, complete with a prizes and more.
May 14, the 2014-2015 Leadership Calhoun County class had their graduation ceremony at the Anniston Country Club. Leadership Calhoun County (LCC) is a program of the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce and is designed to prepare and build upon leadership resources within our entire county. Each class will be comprised of leaders and emerging leaders of this area.
May 13, Hubbard's Off Main located in Downtown Oxford on Choccolocco Street hosted Lunch and Leads with 19 attendees.
Each May, the JSU College of Commerce and Business Administration hosts the Chamber's Business After Hours. On May 19, the event was hosted at the newly named William A. Meehan Hall, formerly Stadium Towers. Cooter Brown's provided the delicious food for the evening.
May 14, Stringfellow Memorial Hospital and Regional Medical Center partnered with the City of Anniston and Chamber of Commerce to present the first Calhoun County Health & Wellness Show at the Anniston City Meeting Center. Exhibitors showcased live fitness demonstrations, healthy food options, health screenings, giveaways and much more! May 27, the JSU SBDC and Calhoun County SHRM hosted the Chamber’s HR Success Series presentation on the EEOC!
June Events
June 4, NHC Place hosted the Chamber’s Business & Biscuits, our monthly morning networking time for Chamber members.
PURE hosted the Chamber's June 16 Business After Hours at their 1800 S Quintard Avenue location in Anniston.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for Lunch & Leads at Loco Mex in Jacksonville on June 10.
Thank you to Alabama Power for hosting our June 16 Member Orientation at their Anniston Auditorium.
June 17, 2015, the U.S. Chamber Awarded the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce with 4-Star Accreditation!
June 24, the Chamber's Small Business Committee in partnership with JSU SBDC and Calhoun County SHRM presented a seminar with the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services and Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs for the finale of the HR Success Series.
June 23 and 24, the Chamber hosted Familiarization Tours for elected officials, members of the hospitality industry and the general public, to showcase Calhoun County and our surrounding regional attractions and history.
July Events
July 2, Classic Cadillac GMC hosted Business & Biscuits at their location at 420 Quintard Avenue. July 21, Mt. Cheaha Harley Davidson hosted Business After Hours sponsored by Insurance Planning Services.
Cheaha Brewing Company hosted the Chamber’s Lunch and Leads on July 8, with 32 in attendance.
July 14, the Chamber hosted a farewell reception for the departing Depot Commander COL Brent Bolander. COL Bolander commanded Anniston Army Depot from August 2012 to July 2015.
At Orientation, Chamber programs, annual and monthly events, and Chamber committees are discussed, and we demonstrate how to access the Member Information Page online for marketing and updating. For more information or to register for the next orientation, call 256-237-3536.
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April 2, Produce Wagon celebrated the ribbon cutting for their Produce Wagon Store at 2236 Hwy 78 W in Oxford.
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April 7, McClellan Assisted Living celebrated the ribbon cutting for their 41 Polkville Drive location in Anniston.
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Congratulations to The Anniston Youth Orchestra, who celebrated the ribbon cutting for their 707 Wilmer Avenue location on April 9.
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April 23, Alabama Hospice Care celebrated a ribbon Cutting for a new location at 1631 Hamric Drive E, in Oxford.
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April 30, Sam’s Oyster Bar celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting at Thai One On, 911 Noble Street, Anniston.
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Ribbon Cuttings
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May 12, Rite Way Beauty Supply celebrated the ribbon cutting for their 270 E. Glade Road location in Anniston, under new ownership.
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May 13, Floating Fun celebrated a Ribbon Cutting for their new location at 460 Bobwhite Drive in Oxford.
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May 22, Heritage Financial celebrated the ribbon cutting for their 907 Snow Street location in Oxford.
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May 28, the City of Weaver celebrated the groundbreaking for the Weaver Community Center. This 4000 square foot facility will serve as the Community Center and the Senior Center for residents of Weaver.
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10 June 3, Forever Sunrise Organics celebrates their ribbon cutting at 230 N Center Avenue in Piedmont.
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11 Celebrating their 15th Anniversary owning Cooter
Brown’s Rib Shack, Tim and Barbara Johnson celebrated a Ribbon Cutting on June 4, marking the addition of a new kitchen for their catering services.
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11 June 5, the Civilian Marksmanship Program
celebrated the dedication and grand opening of their Talladega Marksmanship Park. For more information, visit www.thecmp.org.
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12 Congratulations to Spa Bleu for their June 16
ribbon cutting at 614 Hale Street, Suite A, in Oxford.
13 June 19, Hannah Closet celebrated the ribbon
cutting for their Jacksonville location on the Public Square.
14 LifeSouth celebrated a ribbon cutting for their
Community Blood Center at the Chamber office on June 24.
15 June 26, Cobblestone Trace Apartments
celebrated a ribbon cutting for their 55 and up unit at 70 Embecca Landing in Oxford.
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14 13 16 July 1, Cricket Wireless celebrated the opening of their location at 539 Quintard Drive, Oxford.
17 July 16, Staff Medical Service Home Health
celebrated the ribbon cutting for their 333 Choccolocco Street, Suite A, location in Oxford.
18 July 22, Tower Loan of Anniston celebrated a ribbon cutting for their 3210 McClellan Blvd location.
19 July 23, Legacy Village celebrated the ribbon cutting for “The Harbor” located at 1116 James Hopkins Rd SW in Jacksonville
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20 July 29, Pate’s Painting & Remodeling celebrated a ribbon cutting for their 729 Greenbrier Dear Road, Suite C, location in Anniston. 21 July 30, Craig’s Automotive celebrated a ribbon cutting for their 705 Clydesdale Avenue location in Anniston.
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Miscellaneous Events
April 24, the Chamber’s Community Improvement Committee hosted a FREE Electronics Recycling Day at the Chamber of Commerce.
At the May 14 Leadership Calhoun County Graduation, Carol Kirk of EASTMAN was named the 2015 Roy Crow winner. Thank you Carol for all you do in Calhoun County.
May 15, Governor Bentley addressed the Chamber, elected officials and local economic development about the state's budget and answered questions about other issues facing our local economy.
The Ambassadors program consists of enthusiastic volunteers from the Chamber membership who donate their time to help build member commitment and raise community awareness of Chamber activities and benefits. Thank you to our 2015 Ambassadors and Alagasco for hosting the Ambassadors' May 12th meeting.
April 6, the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama held their Spring Professional Development Clinic in Montgomery. Pictured left to right are Tiffany Young of the Clay County Chamber of Commerce, Linda Hearn Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce, Jason Daves of the Greater Talladega & Lincoln Area Chamber of Commerce, and Lisa Gaither of the Greater Pell City Chamber of Commerce. Linda Hearn, our Chamber Manager, serves on the CCAA Board of Directors.
May 7, the Chamber’s Small Business Awards of Excellence emphasized the creativity and passion small businesses and entrepreneurs must demonstrate in order to be successful. This year, we recognized 14 honorees, 7 emerging and 7 sustaining businesses, who were nominated by their customers and members of the public. Ted’s Abbey Carpet & Floor This Floorcovering Retail Store sells and professionally installs all types of flooring, from tile to hardwood, laminate, carpet and vinyl for both commercial and residential jobs, and they install solid granite countertops. Artisanal Baked Goods The bakery has increased its wholesale accounts, distributing to many local restaurants, including Classic on Noble, Prime Dining & Bar, Cheaha Brewing and more, and expanded the variety of pastries and breads they offer each weekend. Cheaha Brewing Company, LLC This Brew Pub opened in May of 2013in the old L& N Freight House of downtown Anniston, serving local artisan craft beer as well as local meats, produce, and dairy products from locally owned farms. FreeStyle Graphix Since opening in 2010, FreeStyle Graphix originated in racing, in a niche market of racecar wraps, and it’s evolved into commercial promotional marketing products with a store front in Oxford. Java Jolt Coffeehouse Cindy Young purchased Java Jolt on Jacksonville’s historic square in 2009, with a purpose to “provide a culture of caring,” maintaining the brand of caring about the individual and the community, participating in many community events or providing many events from live music to art shows. Mad Hatter Cakes and Cupcake Shop Mad Hatter Cupcakes opened in 2010 as a custom cake shop, and since then, has evolved into cupcake shop, with a variety of themes and flavors, catering to their customers’ requests. Moore Printing Company Danny Shears and Steve Taylor purchased Moore Printing in 2001. Striving to provide quick turnaround on all orders, this print shop has decreased the time it takes to print and deliver an order. Posche Salon Owner Stacey Gibson has been in the salon industry for 17 years, and in 2014, Posche Salon opened shop in Oxford. Posche stylists offer services from hair to makeup, even onsite services for special occasions. Rock 105.9 WKLS-FM Since 2008, Rock 105.9 has broadcasted local news, information and rock music from the 70s to today, with a market reaching from Anniston to Gadsden, Birmingham to Atlanta. Sarah Cavender Metalworks Sarah Cavender started in the jewelry business in 1984. Since then, Sarah Cavender Metalworks moved to downtown Oxford and produces metal jewelry and accessories to sell wholesale to boutiques and museum stores. Simmons Staffing In 2013, Simmons Staffing was founded as a full-service, family owned and operated recruiting and staffing agency. This husband and wife team of Rusty and Becky Simmons rigorously prescreen applicants prior to meeting their clients. Tyson Fine Wines and Things Founded by Floyd and Bertha Tyson in 1946, this shop has expanded from automobile glass replacement and picture framing to selling wines and craft beers in Calhoun county.
Congratulations to our 2015 Small Businesses of the Year! Emerging Small Business of the Year: Cheaha Women’s Health and Wellness Founded in 2012, Cheaha Women’s Health and Wellness offers personalized, responsible obstetrics and gynecological care with market leading options in natural birth. Dr. Johannson is also a IBCLC, a special certification in breastfeeding, allowing for support and solutions to be integrated into maternal and childcare in the office. Dr. Johannson is able to take care of gynecological problems in minimally invasive procedures, allowing women to return to their daily lives faster and with fewer complications. Congratulations Cheaha Women’s Health & Wellness! Sustaining Small Business of the Year: Signature In-Home Care, Inc. In 2003, Signature In-Home Care, Inc. was established by Judi Hansek, providing caring services to make it possible for the elderly to maintain as much independence as possible by providing the appropriate in-home assistance and companionship. Since 2003, they've grown from 2 highly qualified and trained caregivers to 70. Congratulations Signature In-Home Care! Lifetime Achievement Award: ERA King Real Estate ERA King Real Estate was founded in 1969 by Jack King and has never wavered from his vision of "Just Do The Right Thing". In the 45+ years ERA King, the company, has never sold a property, but instead they say “our people do.” Therefore, ERA King has been able to outperform the markets by being the very best agent support service ever. While other companies were hanging on or disappearing during the recent recession, ERA King grew. Ladies and Gentlemen, the 2015 Lifetime Achievement Award winner, ERA King Real Estate. Larry Sylvester Small Business Advocate Award: Center for Domestic Preparedness The Center for Domestic Preparedness identifies, develops, tests, and delivers training to more than 14,000 state, local, and tribal emergency response providers each year at their Anniston Campus. The CDP is also one of the largest employers in the county with almost 900 employees. Providing on-site and mobile training at the performance, management, and planning levels, the CDP facilitates the delivery of training to more than 40,000 responders annually through the training partners of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Thanks to this organization and their support of our local restaurants and small businesses, we now present the Center for Domestic Preparedness with the 2015 Larry Sylvester Small Business Advocate Award.
Friday, May 29, the Chamber hosted the Breakfast of Champions at the Anniston Museum of Natural History, featuring a panel of Small Businesses of the Year, Christian Corner Meats, ERA King Real Estate, Cheaha Women's Health & Wellness and Signature In-Home Care.
The Chamber is 4-Star Accredited! What does that mean? June 17, 2015, the U.S. Chamber Awarded the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce with 4Star Accreditation! “Accreditation validates a chamber as having programs that benefit their local economy and for positively influencing action in their community,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, U.S. Chamber Executive Director of Political Affairs and Federation Relations. In order to receive Accreditation, a chamber must meet minimum standards in their operations and programs, including areas of governance, government affairs, and technology. By earning Accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Chambers show their dedication to reviewing, improving, and promoting strong business practices, recognizing leadership and outstanding contributions to the community, and establishing best practices and staying in-step with industry changes. “Being able to refer to ourselves as an accredited Chamber is a benefit to our organization as it shows our members, and prospective members and the community that we have an eye on the future and we have plans and policies that guide what we do.” Linda Hearn, IOM, Chamber Manager. Of the 7,022 Chambers in the U.S., 207 of these are accredited. These elite chambers represent the top 3% of all Chambers in the United States. The Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce first received accreditation in 1989. “The Chamber is honored and credits the involvement of our membership and communities for this distinction,” says Linda Hearn. In 2015, the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce accreditation designation moved from 3-Stars to 4-Stars. The Calhoun County Chamber was noted with special recognition for advocating for its business and community in Government Affairs, leading the community in technology implementation, fostering excellent relationships with local media and received perfect scores in Program Development and Facilities.
Thank You to our 2015 Partnership Investors
New Members April-July James Bartel Vinyl Visions 1508 George Douthit Drive SW, Jacksonville, AL 36265 256-689-1138 Graphic Design Signs/Banners Russell Craig Craig's Automotive 705 Clydesdale Ave, Anniston, AL 36201 (256) 238-3986 Auto - Repair & Service Donnie Harris Farmers Insurance - Donnie Harris Agency 1317 Wilmer Avenue Suite 104, Anniston, AL 36201 (256) 473-3479 Insurance Nathan Cook King Property Management 1530 Hillyer Robinson Industrial Parkway, Anniston, AL 36207 (256) 835-5646 Apartments Real Estate Management Linda Reaves American Realty 1132 Snow Street, Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 832-9933 Real Estate Management Storage - Self Service Jeremy Hardy Barber Properties 35750 AL Hwy 21 N, Talladega, AL 35160 (256) 362-3195 Apartments Real Estate Management Tyrone Teague Teague VIP Express 1007 Morrisville Road, Anniston, AL 36201 (256) 591-0163 Charter Bus/Car Service Katie Exum Alabama Trails Magazine Jacksonville, AL 36265 334-828-1098
Joe Jankoski Anniston Morning Rotary Club PO Box 1861, Anniston, AL 0 Civic Organizations Callie Brown Cricket Wireless 539 Quintard Dr, Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 342-5157 Cellular Services and Equipment Wireless Communications Debra Whittaker CharACTers, Inc. 101 Rainbow Industrial Blvd, Rainbow City, AL 35906 (205) 746-9511 Theater/Event Production Attractions Quinton Fuller Oxford Recruiting Center Army 700 Quintard Dr. Suite 60, Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 835-7149 Military J.W. Swift Northwestern Mutual 350 Locust St. Suite 300, Gadsden, AL 35901 (256) 310-8579 Financial Consultants & Services Ruby Stockdale Staff Medical Services Home Health 333 Choccolocco Street Suite A, Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 405-4022 Home Health Care Joseph Baker American Legion Post #312 1330 West 10th Street, Anniston, AL 36201 (256) 499-5241 Civic Organizations Non-Profit Organization Hannah Nguyen Hannah Closet #3 Public Square, Jacksonville, AL 36265 (256) 365-2451 Boutique Shopping & Retail Jarod Kirk KirkPro Services 1133 Highway 78 E, Oxford, AL 36203 256-405-9734
Richard Phelps Richard Phelps (256) 310-4022 Friends of the Chamber Kareem Jenkins Jenkins Grass Cutting Services Weaver, AL 36277 (256) 225-4976 Landscaping Victoria Everett Everett, Victoria Anniston, AL 36207 (256) 239-1631 Friends of the Chamber Jeff Smith Millwork Sales & Surplus 3825 Hwy 9, Heflin, AL 36264 (256) 463-7853 Window and Door Supplier Alex Beene Heritage Financial, Inc. 907 Snow St, Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 820-8422 Financial Consultants & Services Loan Company Braxton Harris Braxton Harris Properties 1417 Commerce Blvd., Anniston, AL 36207 256-831-9198 David Clark Forever Sunrise Organics, LLC 230 N Center Ave, Piedmont, AL 36272 (256) 473-6109 Specialty Foods Grocers Shay McCartney Spa Bleu LLC 614 Hale Street Suite A, Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 770-4728 Day Spa Johnnie Hayes J.C. Hayes Voice 1008 Robertson Road, Anniston, AL 36207 (256) 237-6129 Clyde Ward DTSA Inc. Anniston, AL 36201 (404) 246-2214 Health Food Store Trucking
New Members Continued... Tanchra Akles T's Rhema Destiny Credit Educators 1711 C Hillyer Robinson Parkway S, Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 405-5999 Credit Repair Financial Consultants & Services David Page Tower Loan of Anniston 3210 McClellan Blvd, Anniston, AL 36206 Financial Consultants & Services Stephanie Payne J & J Electric 2614 Six Foot Rd, Ohatchee, AL 36271 256-453-4255 Contractors - Electrical Charity Evans RiteWay Beauty Supply 270 E. Glade Road, Anniston, AL 36206 256-820-1124 Beauty Products Auburn Luna Pate's Painting & Remodeling 729 Greenbrier Dear Road Suite C, Anniston, AL 36207 (256) 403-2646 Remodeling-Home/Business Painters Restoration Services- Fire, Water, Ect Charles (Chuck) Keith Col. (Ret) Charles (Chuck) D. Keith, Jr. Talladega, AL 35160 (256) 493-7440 Friends of the Chamber Buddy McLeod McLeod Electric, Inc. 2841 Noble St, Anniston, AL 36201 (256) 236-1331 Contractors - Electrical David C. Smith Valens Point LLC 1400 Commerce Blvd, Suite 9 Anniston, AL 36207 (208) 250-1230 Marketing Agencies & Consultants
Patricia Hamby Intrepid USA Healthcare Services 1031 Quintard Avenue, Suite 2B Anniston, AL 36201 (256) 832-2271 Home Health Care
Dee Ford Dee Ford’s Bar & Grill 3805 Hwy 202 Anniston, AL 36201 (256) 403-6862 Restaurant Music Venue
Aron Taylor Gamecock Village 351 Nisbet St NW, Jacksonville, AL 36265 (256) 782-1285 Apartments
Kevin Bryan Daybreak Media P.O. Box 3407 Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 831-8533 Publishing/Marketing
Tamar Heard The Dannon Project 715 Martin Luther King Drive, Anniston, AL 36201 (205) 202-4072 Non-Profit Organization
David Martin Beauty Enterprise Cosmetology School 1226 Noble Street Anniston, AL 36201 (256) 237-9574 Cosmetology School
Scott Frame Old Carolina Brick Company 705 Quintard Ave., Anniston, AL 36207 (256) 237-2887 Manufacturer - Building Materials
Gary “Pete” Cobb Disabled American Veterans (DAV) 410 E. 10th Street Anniston, AL 36201 (256)231-8382 Civic Organization
Stacy Holmes Holmes II Excavation, Inc. 46300 AL Hwy 21, Munford, AL 0 (256) 831-9545 Excavation
Kevin O’Neill 561 Sweetwater Drive Lineville, AL 36266 (256) 276-0910 Friends of the Chamber
Ronda McMichael Wise Environmental Solutions Inc. 2345 Al Hwy 21 South, Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 832-7867
Joel Atkins A+ Printing Service 1200 Pine Circle Glencoe, AL 35905 (256) 458-3584 Printers
Ricky Howell Oxford EMS 12 Hwy 78 W, Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 831-7250 Ambulance Services
Lee & Kim Clark Over the Top Trading Company, LLC 262 Oxford Exchange Blvd Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 835-5328 Retail
Jarod Kirk KirkPro Services 1133 Highway 78 E Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 405-9734 Residential and Commercial Cleaning Hannah Nguyen Hannah Closet #3 Public Square Jacksonville, AL 36265 (256) 365-2451 Ladies Boutique
Thank you for your continued support and involvement in the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce. The second quarter of 2015 was full of great accomplishments! Some of our significant 2nd Quarter accomplishments include: June 17, 2015, the U.S. Chamber Awarded the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce with 4-Star Accreditation!
Program Development
YLCC held Gadsden State Community College Day where the 31 class members experienced three programs offered at the Ayers Campus as well as learning about the other programs and scholarship opportunities offered throughout the GSCC system Assisted in placing 30 seniors from Ohatchee High School in job shadows Held Graduation for 31 YLCC Class members at the Civilian Marksmanship Program, where class members heard from Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama LCC held Healthcare Day where 23 class members visited Autumn Cove, Northeast Alabama Regional Medical Center, Sarrell Dental Center and Stringfellow Memorial Hospital. Class members also heard from Bradford Health Services, Health Service Center, Signature In-Home Care. Robert Houston of R & R Consulting was the leadership speaker for the day. Electronics Recycling Day was held by the Community Improvement Committee. Over 2,000 pounds was collected thus reducing the amount in the county landfill. Worked with the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service on Earth Day for the county 4th graders reaching over 850 and private school students Hosted Get Linked for JSU and GSCC students at the Hampton Inn in Jacksonville, featuring panelists Tommie Goggans of The Goggans Group, Shannon Jenkins of United Way of East Central Alabama, and Brigitte Sailors of Kelly Services Participated in Career Day at Anniston High School presenting the Chamber and our 1200+ Chamber members to 10th, 11th and 12th grade students Held LCC Quality of Life / Tourism Day with 23 class members learning about 50 local and regional attractions, restaurants, hotels and points of interest Met with DHR JOBS Task Force members working towards employability of clients Presented YLCC Scholarships to two students at the school Awards Days at Saks High School and Faith Christian School Recruited 6 new Community Improvement Committee members LCC graduated 23 class members bringing the alumni total to 860 Attended planning meeting for Renew Our Rivers, to take place on August 29 at H. Neely Henry Lake in Ohatchee Participated in Workforce Development/GSCC planning meeting at the City of Anniston Attend Leveraging JSU Meeting with 12 in attendance Accepted applications from 32 potential LCC Class of 2016 members Coordinated industry and community representatives to attend Gadsden State-Industry Partnership Meeting with approximately 100 in attendance. Panelists included: Sen. Del Marsh, Dr. Tommy Bice-State Superintendent of Education, Dr. Mark Heinrich-Chancellor of the Alabama Community College System, Greg Canfield-Secretary of Commerce, and Ed Castile-Executive Director of AIDT LCC Advisory Committee interviewed 31 candidates and selected 25 to be part of LCC Class of 2016. Attended Workforce Region 5 Meeting with State Board Member to plan upcoming events Attended Renew Our Rivers Committee Meeting with 11 committee members Met with CMP Talladega Marksmanship Park to plan LCC 30th Reunion event in the fall and look for opportunities to promote facility Held Community Improvement Committee Meeting with 10 committee member attending to plan for fall recycling events and look at other opportunities to promote Chamber members that are "green" Participated in interviews with YES program candidates through the Anniston Parks and Recreation Department. Selected one student who will be working at the Chamber through August 6th Attended Association of Leadership Programs national conference in Huntsville, returning with ideas to implement for LCC, and YLCC and additional ideas for new programs and ways to generate additional revenue.
Public Affairs
Hosted Coffee with Representative Randy Wood on May 4th with 10 in attendance Briefing with Governor Bentley on Friday, May 15th had 80 in attendance. Washington Fly In of Chamber Board and Foundation delegation met with Washington representation on Federal Issues Coffee with Representative Barbara Boyd had 10 in attendance.
Organizational Development
40 New Members joined the Chamber in Q2. 82 New Members Year to Date Business & Biscuits was held on Thursday, April 2 at Cornerstone Church in Choccolocco with 50 members in attendance. Business & Biscuits was held at the Anniston Country Club on Thursday, May 7 with 45 members in attendance. Business & Biscuits was held at NHC Place in Anniston on Thursday, June 4 with 55 members in attendance. Member Orientation was held on Tuesday, April 21 at the Chamber with 22 members in attendance. Member Orientation was held at the Chamber on Tuesday, May 19 with 16 members in attendance. Member Orientation was hosted at the Alabama Power Company Auditorium on Tuesday, June 16 in Anniston with 14 members in attendance. Board Treasurer Rod Nowlin and Board Member Mayor Wayne Willis provided opening comments, including examples of how Chamber membership has been beneficial for their respective businesses. Business After Hours was held on Tuesday, April 21 at F&M Bank in Oxford with over 250 in attendance. 2015 is a milestone for F&M Bank, celebrating 100 years in business. Business After Hours was held at JSU Stadium Towers on Tuesday, May 19 with 125 in attendance. Chamber Board Treasurer Rod Nowlin presented checks for the scholarship funds at JSU, GSCC, and Alabama Recreation and Parks. Business After Hours was held at Pure Special Events on Tuesday, June 16 with 155 in attendance. Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies were held for The Produce Wagon, McClellan Assisted Living, Anniston Youth Orchestra, Alabama Hospice Care, RiteWay Beauty Supply, Floating Fun (new location), Heritage Financial, Forever Sunrise Organics LLC, Cooter Browns Rib Shack 15th Anniversary, Spa Bleu, Hannah Closet, LifeSouth Community Blood Center, and Cobblestone Trace Apartments 55+ Community. A Ground Breaking Ceremony was held for the Weaver Community Center/Senior Center. Chamber Ambassadors met on Tuesday, April 14 at the Chamber. Ambassadors discussed a member visitation schedule and began planning Member Appreciation Day. Chamber Ambassadors held a monthly meeting at Alagasco on Tuesday, May 12. A segment about Chamber Ambassadors was aired on TV24 that same day. Chamber Ambassadors held a monthly meeting at the Alabama Power Company Auditorium on Tuesday, June 9. Appeared on the Man About Town Show on WDNG to talk about Chamber events in May Appeared on the Community Connection TV Show to talk about the value of membership Appeared on the Man About Town Show on WDNG with Vice-Chair of Organizational Development Barry E. Robertson to talk about Chamber events in June
Tourism
Distributed 2057 informational packets, brochures and/or bags 19 Banners were displayed at the Chamber from April-June. The Visit Calhoun County Facebook Page now has more than 937 likes. During the 2nd Quarter, VisitCalhounCounty.com had more than 3,500 visitors, with 79% being new visitors. The VisitCalhounCounty April Facebook ad featuring cycling had 57 clicks and reached 4,894. The VisitCalhounCounty May Facebook ad featuring kayaking on had 40 clicks and reached 7,574. The VisitCalhounCounty June Facebook ad featuring summer activities on had 77 clicks and reached 2,448 users. Volunteered and Participated at Cheaha Challenge and Ladiga Cruise Partnered with Jacksonville Community Center to display at Cleburne Welcome Center Day Set up for Oxford's Lickskillet Festival on May 23 The Visit Calhoun County blog generated 465 page views during April to June. There are 53 new Visit App Users. @VisitCalhounCo has more than 263 followers on Twitter. @VisitCalhounCo has 47 followers on Instagram. Distributed a Summer Announcement and Calendar of Events newsletter to more than 1800 in May, hoteliers, restaurants, attractions and visitors, with 165 opens Our June 23 and 24 FREE familiarization tours hosted 22 individuals from area attractions, hotels, restaurants, elected officials and members of the public. Attended Coldwater Mountain Bike Trail Committee Meeting with 9 committee members in attendance. Attended Freedom Riders Park Roundtable with over 50 community, city and county leaders
Business Development
April Lunch and Leads at Prime Dining & Bar with 33 in attendance. May Lunch and Leads at Hubbard's off Main with 19 in attendance. June Lunch and Leads at Loco Mex had 20 in attendance. With more than 300 volunteers and participants, the Chamber's Whirlwind of Color 5K on April 18, raised more than $5,000 for the JSU and GSCC Scholarship Foundations. At the Social Media Boot Camp on April 23 in Piedmont, we had 16 in attendance. The 2015 Small Business Gala was hosted May 7 at the Buckner Event Plaza, with 150 in attendance, recognizing 14 honorees.The winners were: Emerging: Cheaha Women's Health & Wellness Sustaining: Signature In-Home Care Lifetime Achievement: ERA King Real Estate Small Business Advocate: Center for Domestic Preparedness The Breakfast of Champions was hosted May 29 at the Anniston Museum of Natural History, with 40 in attendance. The 1st Health and Wellness Show was May 14, at the Anniston City Meeting Center with 33 exhibitors. Appeared on WDNG Radio Show promoting Small Business Month The last HR Success Series seminar had 6 in attendance. The HR Success Series seminar had 5 in attendance to hear from the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission). June 28-July 2, the Chamber staff attended the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute of Organization Management. June 2, Chamber Staff attended the Choccolocco Creek Watershed Alliance's Media Day at the Pine Glen Campground. The Chamber Board met May 28 at the Oxford City Schools Media Center and toured their new Career Tech facilities.
Public Relations
The Chamber Facebook page has more than 2600 likes. CalhounChamber.com had more than 10,700 visitors for the second quarter, with more than 12400 directory searches of our online membership directory. With 9 active job postings, we've garnered more than 500 hits. Our Calhounchamber.com event calendar received more than 28,000 page views during the second quarter. Our 25 Hot Deals for second quarter received 1068 hits. The Chamber's Twitter, @CalhounChamber, has 833 followers. The Chamber's Blog garnered 131 visitors for the second quarter. The Chamber's April E-Newsletter, distributed March 30, had 560 opens, of the 2026 sent. The Chamber's E-Newsletter, distributed May 4, had 482 opens, of the 2046 sent. The Chamber's E-Newsletter, distributed June 1, had 529 opens, of the 2042 sent. The Chamber's App, Calhoun2Go, has 101 registered users.
Upcoming Events Salute to Industry in September Sponsored by: AOD Federal Credit Union Join the Fun Tee up with us on September 17 for a round at Cider Ridge Golf Course. The Chamber’s Annual Salute to Industry Golf Outing will serve lunch, sponsored by NobleBank & Trust, during registration, beginning at 11:00 A.M. There will be a shotgun start at 12:30 P.M., and Dinner and Awards will begin at 5:30 P.M. To register or for more information, call 256-237-3536. Industry’s Impact Calhoun County industries reach throughout the world! Join us for the 2015 Passport to Industry Scavenger Hunt, Friday, September 11, from 8:00 A.M. to noon. Pick two individuals to represent your business and explore local industries and their international impact. To register a team for FREE, call 256-237-3536. Teams will report back to the Chamber for lunch, sponsored by Bradford Health Services and EASTMAN. Save the Date Don’t miss the hottest ticket for business in Calhoun County, the Business to Business EXPO, your chance to meet hundreds of professionals and learn what goods and services are available in Calhoun County on Tuesday, October 20. If you’d like to exhibit, call 256-2373536 or email lindah@calhounchamber.com for more information!
“We are the best business tool, providing opportunities to engage, link and grow businesses.� It's about people. It's about ideas. It's about influence. The Power of Connection. Your business thrives on it. Your future depends on it. Connect with success at the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce, your link to influential people, innovative ideas and exclusive opportunities. Chamber members are as diverse as the county itself. They represent businesses and industries of all sizes, and viewpoints from every position on the political spectrum. Together, we're shaping Calhoun County's dynamic business environment and making the area an exceptional place to live and work. Join us and make your own connections - in Calhoun County and in the world of business.
Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce 1330 Quintard Avenue P.O. Box 1087 Anniston, AL 36202 256.237.3536 www.calhounchamber.com