Directions (USPS 516-530) PO Box 2003 Decatur, AL 35602-2003 Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce PO Box 2003 Decatur, AL 35602-2003 E-Mail: chamber@dcc.org Website: www.dcc.org
Contact Information
Table of Contents
Cover Photo: Hailee Suggs courtesy of A Digital Reflection Photography
Bryan Chapman Corporate Commercial Account Supervisor, Cook’s Pest Control Decatur Jaycees, The June session was set at the beautiful new Immediate Past-President
In early 2009, the Decatur/Morgan County Chamber of Commerce was working on ways to implement the results of the One Vision. One Voice. One Morgan County. community action plan. From that plan came the Keeping Our Best and Brightest committee, which sought to address ways to retain the young workforce that tends to relocate to larger cities following college or high school. At the same time, the Decatur Jaycees began planning for a way to reach more young adults in the community by providing an event to learn from community leaders and to engage with other young adults. Once learning that both organizations were headed in the same direction, the Jaycees and the Keeping Our Best and Brightest committee decided to work together to reach their common goal. The result was the 2010 Summer Symposium. The Symposium would be three sessions followed by a networking social to wrap up the program. The first hour of each session would be dedicated to a speaker, followed by an hour reserved for networking. The first session was held in May at Calhoun’s Aerospace Training Center. This new state of the art
Decatur Heritage Christian Academy campus and featured Dr. Ron Dulek from the University of Alabama. Dr. Dulek brought to life several new theories to the group during his presentation “Controlling Your Business Communication Image: From First Impressions to Facebook”. The group then enjoyed time getting to know a few of the new faces attending the session for the first time. The final learning session featured Skip Thompson sharing some common sense concepts on “Thriving in an Uncertain Economy.” The RBC Bank Penthouse held one of our largest groups of the series and featured a great Q&A session with Thompson. To close out the Summer Symposium, a social was held at the Chamber. This gave young adults in the community a chance to network with not only other young adults, but also with Chamber members and other community leaders. The Decatur Jaycees and the Best and Brightest committee have both attracted new members through the Summer Symposium and the feedback from each session was tremendously positive and has provided good ideas for future events. We look forward to the progress and projects of both groups as individuals and partners.
August 2010
Cover Story................................... 4 Member Spotlight.......................... 5 New Members............................... 6 Workforce Development................. 8 Special Events............................ 10 Renewing Members..................... 12 Commodore of the Quarter.......... 13 Events Calendar.......................... 14 Special Events............................ 15 2010 Diversity Awards Banquet Award Nomination Form............... 17 Chamber Chat............................. 18 Ribbon Cuttings.......................... 19
training facility was the perfect setting for nearly twenty young professionals to hear Dr. Larry Little’s presentation. Dr. Little showed the group ways to determine their individual personality types and gave tips to on how to positively interact with and motivate their peers with differing personalities.
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Main Line – (256) 353-5312, to reach extensions dial 353-0763 John Seymour President & CEO – ext. 103 john@dcc.org Charlotte McKelvy Director of Workforce Development and Education – ext. 107 charlotte@dcc.org Jim Page Vice President of Public Policy and Business Development – ext. 109 jim@dcc.org Cory Wilbanks Director of Membership Development – ext. 104 cory@dcc.org Leissa Hill Chief Financial Officer – ext. 102 leissa@dcc.org Judy Brown Administrative Assistant – ext. 100 judy@dcc.org Tiffany Brightwell Director of Investor Relations – ext. 101 tiffany@dcc.org
a word from your chamber leadership
Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce
A Defining Moment:
Grand Opening of the Splash Pad at the John Mark Stallings Special Needs Accessible Playground (SNAP) of Morgan County by Dona Bonnett
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With Phase 1, the special swing area completed in 2008, and now this Phase 2 splash pad, there remains the Phase 3 main playground, estimated to cost another $365,000. This amount must be raised before Phase 3 construction can begin.
The Grand Opening of the Splash Pad at the SNAP of Morgan County playground in Hartselle marked “A Defining Moment” toward enrichment of the lives of all children in Morgan County, but especially to special needs children and their families. This was an extensive and inclusive heartfelt moment for the many who have contributed their time, talent and resources toward completion of the $237,000 project. Bob Francis, project manager, personally thanked the volunteers within the SNAP organization for what he called a 3 ½ year “labor of love.” Many community and civic leaders, volunteers, individuals, parents, grandparents and children participated in this event. To observe the participating special needs children, who represent 1700 of their peers in Morgan County, confirmed that it has all been worthwhile.
August 2010
Since December 2006, there have been many humbling and inspiring moments and experiences. A 10-year-old girl from Tullahoma, Tennessee, made a 50 cent donation to the project. An inmate from Atmore sent a $5 check from his prison account to contribute to the project. Major cash donations were given along with the time and talent of numerous volunteers. Experiences such as these and the project’s widespread support within have been the sources of inspiration and energy for SNAP volunteers to “continue the march” toward completion of the entire complex of the John Mark Stallings SNAP of Morgan County, estimated to cost $650,000 not including in-kind services.
Susan Hines (Hartselle Area Chamber of Commerce) began the grand opening ceremony with remarks about the sign at the entry of the splash pad which recognizes donors of $1000 or more. Rev. Jerry Smith offered the invocation. Doug Moss recognized the construction team and Bob Francis introduced the guest speaker, Senator Orr, who spoke words of encouragement to all. Senator Orr has honored his commitment to the SNAP project through both his personal financial support and his influential support as our state senator, securing significant grants for SNAP. On behalf of the SNAP volunteers, all donors and especially the benefiting children of SNAP, Bob Francis presented a plaque to Senator Orr as a visible reminder of sincere appreciation for his encouragement and support. Mayor Dwight Tankersley presented closing remarks and performed the ribbon cutting. For those in attendance, it was a joy to see the children and their families enjoying the splash pad with the summer weather approaching 100 degrees! The beauty of this splash pad is that any child can play in the water at each play station regardless of his or her ability - this facility is completely special needs accessible and usable. The facility will be open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, seven days weekly until mid September, and utilization by all children is encouraged. In order to complete this extraordinary complex, the SNAP 501(c)(3) organization needs your help! Individuals, businesses and organizations are encouraged to consider donating to this most worthy project in the spirit of helping fulfill the SNAP motto, “Because EVERY Child Deserves a Playground.” All donations are tax deductible. To find out how you may help, please contact fundraising chairpersons, Jack Templeton, 256-773-6591, or Angie Brandon, 256-335-5283, or visit www.snapplayground.org for more information. Donations may be mailed directly to: JMS SNAP of Morgan County, P. O. Box 512, Hartselle, Alabama 35640.
Member Spotlight
rew n Dulion C 1912 Maso e of m a n l (the origina al) ic n a h M&D Mec
Recent new projects announced by M&D Mechanical Contractors include NASA’s John C. Stennis Space Center in Mississippi and the Madison Hospital in nearby Madison. The company is completing the second phase of a research lab in the System Software Engineering Annex on the Redstone Arsenal, during which they have provided mechanical, plumbing, and utility services. Additionally, M&D Mechanical Contractors is also finishing a plumbing, mechanical, and laboratory gas project in the NASA Building 4602 at the Marshall Space Flight Center.
The increase in projects has not changed M&D Mechanical Contractors’ focus on quality and safety, as seen in the company’s long history of awards for excellence and safety. The company has received numerous recognitions for its quality including being awarded an EIC Award of Excellence for five years in a row by the North Alabama Chapter of ABC. The company won a national EIC Award of Excellence in 2007 and is one of only a few companies in the area that has received accreditation through ABC’s Accredited Quality Contractor Program, which is based on four keys of corporate responsibility: safety, employee benefits, training, and community relations. M&D Mechanical Contractors is also one of the few area contractors that have received the platinum status of the STEP Award, which is given to companies by ABC because of their high safety standards. The company’s safety records have also earned it recognition by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers which has awarded the company numerous local and one district “Celebrate Safety” awards. Now with the close of its 100th year, M&D Mechanical Contractors is well prepared to begin the next successful centennial.
August 2010
These new projects are just a sampling of the recent work that M&D Mechanical Contractors has been awarded. The company has completed various projects for the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, UAH, Samford University, Huntsville Hospital, and
numerous industrial companies in North Alabama. Many of the company’s recent projects have included specialty services such as specialized gas piping, vacuum chamber piping, highend technical fabrication, and medical gas systems.
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In its 100th year of business, M&D Mechanical Contractors has many things to celebrate. The company, which provides mechanical piping, plumbing, HVAC, and custom metal fabrication services to customers throughout the Southeast, has an ever increasing number of large projects and is experiencing record high employment numbers. In 2009, the company received an Excellence in Construction (EIC) Awards of Excellence from the North Alabama Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) and ended the year with zero recordable safety incidents.
New Members
membership
We thank the following businesses and organizations for their commitment to the Decatur-Morgan County area by their investment in the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber during the months of June and July 2010. We look forward to serving you!
A Storage Place Debra Moder 613 14th St SE, Decatur AL 35601
ColorXPress Harold Motter 132 Jetplex Ln, Madison AL 35758
Governor Control Systems, Inc. Brian Nothnagle 1003 Dan Crutcher Rd, Toney AL 35773
Accounting Services, LLC Melanie Burdick 2124 6th Ave SE #507, Decatur AL 35601
Creative Media Factory, LLC Deborah Kienzle 618 Johnston St SE, Decatur AL 35601
Tennessee Valley Authority Waymon Pace PO Box 1010, Muscle Shoals AL 35662
Blue Creek Investment Partners, LLC Calvin J. Brown 100 Church St Ste 500, Huntsville AL 35801
Edward Jones Investments Melissa Henderson PO Box 245, Decatur AL 35602
Windover Place Apartments Don Dyar 2410 Windover Place Apt B, Decatur AL 35603
Terri Collins P.O. Box 21 Decatur, AL 35602
First Grace Child Development Center Barbara Sittason 805 Canal St NE, Decatur AL 35601
the right resources
for small businesses on the rise Redstone Federal Credit Union’s Business Solutions staff is knowledgeable and experienced. So, whether you’re in the market for SBA loans, Redstone’s amazing Business checking or credit cards, even easy online banking for your business – help is only a phone call away. Plus they possess the unique credit union attitude – you’re not just a customer, you’re a member. Call today to find out what Redstone Federal Credit Union’s Business Solutions team can do for your business.
Must be an RFCU member and have a Business Share Account to obtain SBA loan. Loans subject to credit approval. RFCU is an equal credit opportunity lender. Restrictions apply.
256-722-3407 • www.redfcu.org Directions June10 ad.indd 1
6/2/2010 12:34:49 PM
The Wait is Over. The New Quick ER at Parkway Your time is valuable. And the last place you want to be is sitting for hours and hours in an emergency waiting room. That’s why Parkway Medical Center has created “QuickER” to help you know where to go for the fastest door-to-doc ER treatment. Look for our billboards with average wait times posted for Parkway’s fully equipped and staffed Emergency Department.
parkwayinspired.com 1874 Beltline Road • Decatur, AL 35601 256-301-2211
*ER wait times are approximate and provided for informational purposes only. If you are having chest pain or other life-threatening symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately and go to the nearest emergency department.
workforce development 8
Building the Workforce in the Summer By Ranada Robinson, Project Associate Market Street Services When I was in junior high and high school, my mom sent me to various summer camps at Pineywoods Country Life School, Jackson State University, and Alcorn State University. Each of the programs I attended was focused on academic enrichment in STEM subjects: math, chemistry, computer programming, and the like. It was through these programs that I was exposed to how I could use the math I loved so much in practical ways. By the time I got to college, I already knew that I wanted to major in mathematics and computer science.
August 2010
My personal experiences are just examples of how youth programs are worthy workforce development initiatives. As communities search for proactive ways to strengthen and grow talent, ensuring that there is a trained workforce available for their industries, it is important to remember that our youth will one day join the workforce. Exposing them to high-wage careers available in the community while they are in junior high and high school is a surefire way to grow competitive homegrown talent. In addition, targeting minority populations increases diversity over the long-term. Since 2007, the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with Calhoun Community College Tech Prep Consortium has done its part to take a proactive approach to increasing diversity in high-wage technical fields. The Summer Welding & Electrical Technology Camp for Girls (SWeETy Camp) is in its fourth year of exposing high school girls to the technical careers in the Decatur area. The week-long camp was modeled after the BE&K Girl Power summer camp, which introduces high school girls to construction and engineering careers and provides introductory training in welding, carpentry, and electrical crafts. Over the last 4 years, the SWeETy camp has grown from 9 participants in 2007 to 21 in 2010, even attracting students from
Louisiana. Activities have included learning hands-on technical skills that strengthen problem-solving skills and teamwork, field trips, and interactions with women who are industry professionals, such as Holley Thomas, a certified structural welder for KBR, an engineering, construction and services company, and the first woman to receive top honors in the national ABC National Craft Championships. Hands-on projects have included cutting names into pieces of steels and welding the pieces into base plates, wiring a box with two outlets and a switch that turns on the light, a miniature version of framing a house before adding drywall, assembling lamps, and building flag holders. Field trips have included tours of United Launch Alliance, Turner Industries, M&D Mechanical, Goss Electric, DHS Systems, Inc., and Redstone Arsenal. This year, while touring Redstone Arsenal, the participants were afforded the opportunity to see firsthand the welding being done by Boeing for NASA on the Ares Rocket. The SWeETy camp empowers young girls and expands their options for their futures. The program guides them into the math and science classes needed to prepare them for post-secondary education and certification that will grant them access to these lucrative, traditionally male fields. It’s important that communities invest in youth—developing them translates into stronger community development for us all. Presented by
KBR
Lunch Sponsors BP Joe Wheeler EMC Kinder Morgan Terminals Meow Mix/Del Monte Pet Products Tennessee Valley Training Center
Tee Shirt Sponsors Doyle’s Supply, Inc., Joe Wheeler EMC, Turner Universal, United Launch Alliance
Danielle Denton is a Child of Children’s. Eight-year-old Danielle Denton of Sheffield loves dancing, playing with her friends and her older brother and going to school --- when her health permits. Four years ago, Danielle was diagnosed with cystic fibrois (CF), an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system. Fifty years ago, few children with CF lived to attend even elementary school, but today people with CF can expect to live into their 30s, 40s and beyond. With the help of her local pediatrician and her Children’s Hospital of Alabama doctors and caregivers, Danielle enjoys a near-normal life. “These are the things we love most about Children’s Hospitals,” says Danielle’s mom, Carol. “They are totally geared to kids and they enable her to live a normal life.”
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Last year, Children’s Hospital of Alabama recorded 23,243 inpatient discharges & outpatient visits by North Alabama children. Now we’re GROWING to serve the needs of Alabama’s children, with opening of our expansion facility set for 2012.
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• * To learn more about Danielle, to read other stories of hope or to share your own story, visit www.childofchildrens.com
special events 10
Breakfast & Biz Did you know that, in some surveys, the fear of public speaking actually ranks above the fear of death? Most people are actually more afraid of getting up in front of an audience and giving a presentation than dying! During the Chamber’s July Breakfast & Biz, Schatzie Brunner met with a crowd of over 80 Chamber members and guests to help them brush up on their presentation skills. Presentation skills are important to anyone in business and this event focused on the “elevator speech.” If you shared a 30-second elevator ride with a potential client or customer, what would you say that would make that person remember you? Brunner said that no matter your type of business, you are “in the connection business.” What is it that you do that a potential customer cares about? Making a connection with someone is more than just handing them a business card – you have to show them how you can help them. Brunner stressed that it’s important to get your message across quickly and concisely. “It’s not essential that you tell everybody everything. You must pick and choose,” said Brunner.
August 2010
Brunner also gave tips on body language and using visuals such as a PowerPoint in presentations. She suggests standing with a forward posture with your hands at your side when speaking. Crossing your arms during a presentation should always be avoided and you shouldn’t tilt your head when addressing a group. Brunner said the bottom line is that when you’re giving a group presentation or meeting a potential client for the first time, the success of your message lies in being “clear about what it is you’re selling to make the other person feel good about buying.” This session of Breakfast & Biz was sponsored by Sykes Place on Bank Street. For more information about the B&B Series, please email Jim@dcc.org.
ADHD - From Both Sides September 9, 2010 Decatur General West Gymnasium 8:00 am - 11:45 am
Speaker: Peter M. Sims, MD, is a board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist who practices in Birmingham. Dr. Sims, who describes himself as “eat up with ADHD” brings a unique vantage point as both a psychiatrist who treats patients with ADHD, as an adult with ADHD, and as a member of his biological family that he refers to as “a long line of class clowns.” The breakfast and seminar are free and sponsored by local mental health providers and advocacy organizations. Call 256-353-1160 to register.
MORGAN COUNTY SUBSTANCE ABUSE NETWORK
Co-sponsor of the Annual Child Safety Conference in April 2011
“Parents Who Host” 19th Annual Red Ribbon Youth March Saturday, October 2 “Given the Opportunity” Youth Awards Luncheon
Thursday, October 28 Project ID
A voluntary student drug-testing program for Decatur City middle school students.
The “Parents Who Host, Lose The Most: Don’t be a party to teenage drinking” public awareness campaign will be continued this year. PWH was developed to educate parents about the health and safety risks of serving alcohol at teen parties and to increase awareness of and compliance with Underage Drinking Laws.
A substance abuse prevention community coalition administered by the Mental Health Association in Morgan County.
“What You Need To Know: A Parent Handbook on Youth Alcohol & Drug Use”
Responsible Vendor Training For owners, servers, cashiers and other front line workers who sell alcohol and/ or tobacco products. Thursday, September 23 9:30 am and 1:00 pm Morgan County Courthouse Call 256-353-1160 to register.
Prescription Drug Abuse Committee will develop and implement a community awareness campaign to focus on the prevention of youth prescription and over-the-counter drug abuse and the proper disposal of these medications.
Mental Health Association in Morgan County ®
P.O. Box 1502 207 Commerce Circle, SW, Decatur, AL 35602 (p) 256-353-1160 (f) 256-353-1163 www.mhainmc.net
Renewing Members The Chamber would like to thank the following members who reinvested in Decatur and Morgan County by renewing their Chamber memberships during the months of June and July 2010. AAA Alabama
Early Services, Inc.
Dan & Laureen Nelson
Sue-Jac, Inc.
Alabama Decatur Energy Corp
Elevation
Robert Allen, MD
Elite Travel Co., Inc.
North Alabama Educators Credit Union
Superior Carpets & Floor Coverings, Inc.
Allied Home Mortgage Capital Corporation
ENERSOLV CORPORATION
North Alabama Glass Co., Inc.
Supreme Beverage Company, Inc.
Omni Team, LLC
Surgical Associates of North Alabama, PC
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membership
American National Insurance Webb Awtrey Agency Amerisouth Auctions, Inc.
ERA Ben Porter Real Estate - Freida Perry
AnswerTel
First Choice Printing, Inc
API Digital Communications Group, LLC
Fulin’s Asian Cuisine
Appraisal Services Aramark Uniform Services, Inc. Austinville Church of Christ Avis Rent A Car Emmette Lee Barran, III
Glee Interiors Goss Electric, Inc.
Osborne Animal Clinic OSCO, INC. Paper & Chemical Supply Co. The Paper Chase Parker Real Estate, LLC PBS Services, Inc.
Habitat ReStore
Peoples Bank of North Alabama - 6th Ave
Judge Steven Haddock
Pitts & Zanaty, LLC
Hardy Chiropractic
Princess Theatre Center for the Performing Arts
BBVA Compass Bank
Helping Hands Transport Service, Inc.
Richard Bedsole
Tallulah’s Telamon Corporation Tennessee Valley Authority TEPPCO TREQ Corporation Turner Universal Underwood Associates Architecture Valley Budweiser, Inc. Valley Feed Service, Inc.
Publix 0045
Valley Rubber, LLC
Hembree Machine, Inc.
Quality Petroleum
Big Bob Gibson’s Bar-B-Q
Home-Towne Suites
RBC Bank - Johnston St
Volunteer Center of Morgan County, Inc.
Bradford Health Services
Honda of Decatur
Reed Contracting Services, Inc.
Building Construction Association, Inc.
Hyosung USA, Inc.
Remax Platinum - Patti Lambert Remax Platinum - Linda Peek
Burningtree Country Club
I.C.E. (Industrial-Commercial Electrical Contractors), Inc.
Bob Burrell
Independence Tube Corporation
Chenault Hammond, PC
Remax Platinum - Mary Ann Scott
Waters Brothers Contractors, Inc. Willo Products Co., Inc. Wolverine Credit Union - Church St Wolverine Credit Union - Spring Ave
Terry Reynolds, OD
International Association of Administration
Worthington Steel Company of Decatur, LLC
Riverwalk Marina
XMC of North Alabama
The Jameson Inn
Sue Baker Roan
Yates Industries South, LLC
Lakeland Industries, Inc.
S. S. Nesbitt & Co., Inc.
Lee Wayne Corporation Promotional Products
The Salvation Army
Clear Channel Radio Consolidated Pipe & Supply Company
The Light House
Lew B. Sample, DMD
LPL Financial Services
Shelton Funeral Home, Inc.
Lyons HR, Inc.
Simp McGhee’s
M & D Mechanical Contractors
Simpson’s Florist
Matthews Industries, Inc.
Smith Barney
Mayer Electric
Solley Construction Co., Inc.
McClary Tire Company
Spry Funeral Home of Athens
Decatur Emergency Medical Services, Inc.
Mike & Glenna Dee Jones Company
St. John’s Episcopal Church
Decatur Family Dentistry, PC
Drs. James & Kathryn Mize
State Farm - Patrick Johnson Agency
Decatur General Hospital
H. R. Moore Company, Inc.
Steel Technologies
Domino’s Pizza
Mortgage America, Inc.
Chick-Fil-A City Cafe Clark Memorials of Alabama, Inc.
CopperWorks Corporation J. Felton Davenport, DMD Days Inn - Priceville Decatur Baptist Church Decatur Electronics Communications, LLC
August 2010
Environmental Comfort Systems, Inc.
Sam Frank & Moore
Commodore of the Quarter Each quarter, an outstanding Commodore earns the Commodore of the Quarter award as a dedicated member who serves above and beyond our expectations. This quarter’s Commodore of the Quarter award recipient is Darrin Kerby of Stovall Marks Insurance. Darrin is an outstanding example of what the Chamber’s Commodore Program represents. Darrin is serving his second year as a Commodore. He is enthusiastic in his service to our community. He is quick to volunteer for special community events and participates in ribbon cuttings and Commodore meetings. Darrin has worked for Stovall Marks Insurance for 16 years. The Chamber thanks Darrin for his dedication to the Commodore Program and congratulates him for being presented with the “Commodore of the Quarter” award.
Darrin Kerby Stovall Marks Insurance
Proudly serving North Alabama’s hearing impaired for over 20 years.
1218 13th Ave., SE, Decatur • 355-2096 • Mon. - Fri. 8 am to 5 pm
Call today for a complimentary hearing screen and diagnosis of your hearing problems. It could change your life.
At Physician Hearing Care our patients can be assured of the very best in hearing healthcare. We offer a complete medical environment for the diagnosis and treatment of hearing disorders. Have your hearing tested by a qualified medical professional and reviewed by an M.D. at Physicians Hearing Care, there are no pushy salespeople, only qualified hearing healthcare professionals.
Physician Hearing Care is a division of Decatur ENT Associates
Call today for your appointment
256/355-2096
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER
Through August 28 The Poetry of Wildness Carnegie Visual Arts Center
2 An Evening with Easton Corbin Princess Theatre for Performing Arts Contact: 256-340-1778
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events calendar
20-22 Southern Wildlife Festival Calhoun Community College Contact: Beverly Newton bevbash57@yahoo.com 21 Movie in the Park: Princess Frog Point Mallard Park Pavilion Contact: Melinda Dunn 256-350-5060 21 Watermelon Day, 9am -1pm Morgan Co. Farmers Market Contact: Times Martin 256-654-0570 25 FREE QuickBooks Training: Payroll, 8:30am Chamber of Commerce Contact: 256-353-5312 28 Movie in the Park: The Perfect Game Wilson Morgan Park Contact: Melinda Dunn 256-350-5060 31 2nd Annual Women in Business Luncheon presented by Nucor Steel Burningtree Country Club Contact: 256-353-5312
4&5 Battle for Decatur Civil War Re-Enactment Point Mallard Park Contact: Roger Hill 256-612-7474 8 through October 9 The Merry Wives of Windsor Carnegie Visual Arts Center 11 Movie in the Park: The Wizard of Oz Old State Bank/Founder’s Park Contact: Melinda Dunn 256-350-5060 17 & 18 Decatur Jaycees Riverfest Ingalls Harbor Contact: Tiffany Brightwell 256-353-5312
18-25 Racking Horse World Celebration Celebration Arena, Hwy 67 East, Decatur Contact: Don Stisher 256-353-7225 30 1st Annual Diversity Summit, 8am Turner-Surles Community Resource Center Contact: Charlotte McKelvy 256-353-5312 30 8th Annual Diversity Banquet, 6pm Holiday Inn & Suites Contact: Charlotte McKelvy 256-353-5312
OCTOBER 14 Fall Business Matchmaker presented by C&H Cooling & Heating, Inc. Burningtree Country Club Contact: Jim Page 256-353-5312 get details online at www.dcc.org
18-16 Eva Frontier Days Eva School & Eva Bank Contact: Barbara Frost 256-796-7023 18 Hartselle Depot Days Festival Downtown Hartselle, AL Contact: Susan Hines 256-773-4370
Decatur-Morgan County The Community of Opportunity
Custom Systems • Hardware Upgrades • Repairs • Networking Service for all makes and models
Avanti Computers 1042 Beltline Road SE, Decatur • 355-9273 dawn@ammsystems.com www.ammsystems.com tom and dawn owczarzak, owners “You can’t beat hiring a geek”
special events
2010 Summer Symposium A committee of the Chamber’s One Vision. One Voice. One Morgan County. initiative hosted the final sessions of 2010 Summer Symposium in June and July. The speaker for the June meeting, held at Decatur Heritage Christian Academy, was Dr. Ron Dulek of the University of Alabama. July’s session featured Skip Thompson and his topic “Thriving in an Uncertain Economy” drew a great crowd. The group wrapped up their three-month series for young adults with a social at the Chamber of Commerce in early August.
Business After Hours
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Morningside of Decatur played host to a Business After Hours event in July as they showcased their facility and services. Musicians entertained the attendees during the Cuban-themed event. Morningside has been a member of the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber since 1999 and we appreciate their support and the services they provide to our community.
special events
Decatur City Schools New Teacher Breakfast
New Teacher Breakfast Each year the Chamber shows appreciation for the newest faculty members of Decatur City and Morgan County Schools with events in their honor. Decatur City teachers were welcomed during a breakfast in late July, while Morgan County teachers celebrated during a luncheon in early August. Both events were held at Decatur Country Club.
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Gold Sponsor
Decatur City Sponsors:
Morgan County Sponsors:
Presented by
Gold Sponsor
Table Top Sponsors Bender’s Gym; Charles F. Betts, Jr. DMD, PC; Calhoun Community College; Meow Mix/Del Monte Pet Products
Table Top Sponsors Bender’s Gym and Calhoun Community College
New Event: Diversity Development Summit
August 2010
The Diversity Development Summit is a new initiative of the Workforce Coalition of the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce and will be held Thursday, September 30 at 8am at the Turner-Surles Community Resource Center. The Summit is meant to equip participants with strategies and skills to drive change, improve business success and create sustainable results, by providing participants with networking opportunities and encouraging the sharing of best practices across industries and businesses. The Summit will feature panel discussions, workshops and roundtable discussions, as well as keynote speaker Lt. Col. Kevin D. Moore. Moore is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and is the president of Knowledge Driven & Moore LLC. Topics discussed during the Summit will range from Cultural Implications, the Many Faces of Diversity and the Diversity Leader. There will be several other guest speakers during this free event.
The Diversity Development Summit will be followed by the 8th Annual Diversity/Minority Awards Banquet presented by Redstone Federal Credit Union at the Holiday Inn & Suites at 6pm and will recognize minority community leaders for accomplishments in business. If you are interested in learning more about these events, please visit www.dcc.org or contact Charlotte McKelvy at 256-353-5312. Presented by
Gold Sponsor
2010 Diversity Awards Banquet Award Nomination Form The Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the Annual Diversity Awards Banquet to be held on September 30, 2010. Awards will be presented to minority businessmen and women for their outstanding achievements and contributions in and to the community. Please submit your nomination form along with a nominee’s bio to the Chamber office not later than September 22, 2010. Categories: ( Check one per nominee)
Community Involvement – Someone who is actively making a difference in the community and in the lives of others.
Perseverance – Determination, someone who has had difficult times and struggled in his or her business, but kept it going in spite of the struggle. Someone who holds to a purpose or a course of action.
Role Model – An example and a model in the community. Someone who is and has been the center of influence for children.
Longevity – Endurance, prolonged life and durability in their business.
workforce development
Entry Deadline September 22, 2010
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Person Nominated: Business: Address: Telephone Number: Type of Business: Years in Business: Additional Information:
August 2010
Please mail or fax to: Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce Attention: Charlotte McKelvy PO Box 2003 Decatur, AL 35602 256-353-5312 256-353-2384 (Fax)
chamber chat 18
Andy Alvarez (McAbee Medical), Tiffany Brightwell (Decatur Jaycees), Angela Manley (Morgan County Home Health), Aaron Sivley and Doug Bunker (McAbee Medical), Jim Page (Decatur Jaycees)
McAbee Medical Lends a Hand
August 2010
The Decatur Jaycees would like to thank local medical equipment supplier McAbee Medical for their recent donation of much needed medical transfer benches to the Morgan County Home Health system. It started with a simple request from a social worker with Morgan County Home Health. “I have three patients in the Decatur area that are in need of assistance and I am writing to see if the Decatur Jaycees would be willing to help. All three need a piece of medical equipment that their insurance will not cover. Anything the Jaycees could do to help meet this need would be very appreciated,” wrote Angela Manley. A phone call was all it took to connect Manley with the team at McAbee Medical, who generously donated the equipment she was seeking for her patients in need. While this may seem like a small thing to many, people are beginning to realize that the Jaycees are here to serve the community, and no request is too big or small. And through the generosity of local businesses like McAbee Medical, the Jaycees were able to make a difference in the lives of three people in our community.
The Decatur Jaycees are a not for profit organization in DecaturMorgan County engaging young adults ages 21-39 in civic and social projects. To learn more, visit www.decaturjaycees.com.
Chamber Staffer Attends Institute The Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce announced that Tiffany Brightwell, Director of Investor Relations, attended her first year of the Institute for Organization Management, a fouryear non-profit leadership program. The Institute is a professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Other staff members who have completed the program and received their IOM certification are Jim Page, Vice President Public Policy and Business Development, and Leissa Hill, CFO.
Contract Manufacturer Micor Industries Lands 40MM, MK 19 Machine Gun Parts Contract Custom Machining Company Prepares for More Aerospace/ Defense Contracts with AS9100 Certification Decatur, Ala. – Contract manufacturer and machining company Micor Industries, Inc. has been tapped by major aerospace and defense contractors Alliant Techsystems, Inc. (ATK) and FN Manufacturing, LLC (FNMI) to provide individual parts and assemblies for 40MM, MK 19 machine guns. Micor Industries has been contracted through 2012 to deliver 137 individual parts and assemblies on a monthly basis.
About Micor Industries, Inc. Micor Industries, Inc. provides global contract manufacturing services, using the latest technology in CNC precision machining, fabrications, welding, finishing, laser marking and precision inspection tools and techniques. ISO 9001:2008 and AS9100 certified, Micor Industries specializes in value-added manufacturing services with a focus on quality, lean manufacturing and customer-driven solutions. In addition to working with clients within the oil field, subsea / nuclear, aerospace sectors, Micor Industries is a prime contractor for the Department of Defense, as well as a subcontractor to several large prime government contracts, providing precision machined military weapon parts and systems. More information about Micor Industries can be found at www.micorind.com.
In addition to the custom machined products that Micor Industries manufactures for the defense, aerospace, and related industries, Micor Industries also manufactures a line of flash suppressors that are
ribbon cuttings
The new contract comes on the heels of Micor Industries’ recent upgrade to its quality system. The company, which is ISO 9001:2008 certified, recently completed the rigorous process to become AS9100 certified. The AS9100 certification, an aerospace quality standard system, will allow Micor Industries to increase their business in the aerospace, nuclear, and medical business sectors.
being marketed to the defense industry. The Micor flash suppressors reduce muzzle flash and climb, improve accuracy, and can be used with U.S. military blank firing adapters or silencers.
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C & H Heating and Cooling
Helping Hands Transport Service
1803 Linwood Dr SW, Hartslle, AL • (256) 773-6264
Accounting Services LLC
Milestone Pediatrics at Parkway welcomes Dr. Robyn Johnson
2124 6th Ave SE #507, Decatur, AL • (256) 686-8126
1874 Beltline Rd SW, Decatur, AL
August 2010
721 S Court St, Florence, AL • (256) 764-9393
Chamber of Commerce by Tennessee Valley Printing Company, Inc. P.O. Box 2213 • Decatur, Alabama 35609-2213 Cereta Hollingsworth Debbie Turney Published for the Decatur-Morgan County Communications & Member Services Graphic Design Chamber of Commerce by Decatur-Morgan County Graphics Consultant Tennessee Valley Printing Company, Inc. Chamber of Commerce Joel McWhorter, McWhorter Design P.O. Box 2213 • Decatur, Alabama 35609-2213 353-0763, ext. 101 Gwen Baker Charles W. Rogers Editorial Coordinator Cereta Hollingsworth Debbie Turney Charles W. Rogers Stephen V. Johnson Special Projects, Special Projects, Graphic Designer Communications & Member Services Graphic Design Tennessee Valley Printing Company, Inc.Inc. Tennessee Valley Printing Company, Decatur-Morgan County Tiffany Brightwell Graphics Consultant 340-2354 340-2354 Chamber of Commerce Editorial Coordinator/Writer Joel McWhorter, McWhorter Design 353-0763, ext. 101 Gwen Baker Charles Rogers in this newsletter is gathered inEditorial TheW. information such a way to ensure maximum accuracy. Coordinator Special Projects, Tennessee Valley Printing Company and the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Tennessee Valley Printing Company, Inc. Commerce cannot and do not guarantee the accuracy of all information furnished to it, 340-2354 nor the complete absence of errors and omissions; hence no responsibility for the same can be, nor is, assumed.
The information in this newsletter is gathered in such a way to ensure maximum accuracy. Tennessee Valley Printing Company and the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce cannot and do not guarantee the accuracy of all information furnished to it, nor the complete absence of errors and omissions; hence no responsibility for the same can be, nor is, assumed.
(256) 353-5312 Fax: (256) 353-2384 E-Mail: chamber@dcc.org Internet: http://www.dcc.org PO Box 2003 Decatur, Alabama 35602-2003
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