Directions (UPS 516-530) PO Box 2003 Decatur, AL 35602-2003 Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce PO Box 2003 Decatur, AL 35602-2003
Enterpreneurial Development
E-Mail: chamber@dcc.org
Morgan County. We reside at the crossroads of high-tech manufacturing and technology-related business opportunities.
Website: www.dcc.org
Contact Information
Table of Contents One Morgan County . . . . . . . . . . .4 Renewing Members . . . . . . . . . . .6 Ribbon Cuttings . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Special Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Workforce Development . . . . . . .11 New Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Special Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Events Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Total Resource Campaign . . . . . .19
This past year, the Decatur City Council and the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce have pushed forward their renewed vision for the Decatur Business Incubator and Decatur Business Development (DBD) Advisory Board, thus rejoining our surrounding communities in fostering Entrepreneurial Development. The opportunities for equipping and mentoring entrepreneurs have long been realized by our neighbors to the west in the Shoals and by Huntsville to the east. They each have distinct markets that draw entrepreneurs to open new businesses in their towns. They have facilities and systems that equip and mentor new businesses and allow entrepreneurs to become successful. Our area has an even greater opportunity with the diverse service industry associated with manufacturing in
Small business creates jobs, jobs sustain the community, and entrepreneurs create small businesses. This cycle must be jump-started in our city and county and propagate itself for generations. This is an investment for Decatur and Morgan County that can pay off in a big way for years to come. Our community has certainly become adept at attracting large manufacturing business, but has allowed the development of small business to subside. Come alongside the Chamber and DBD boards and help us create an environment that will spark an interest in not only our own citizens, but even those outside our area that wish to plant their ideas, dollars, and entrepreneurial spirit in Decatur and Morgan County.
December 2009
Chamber Chat . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
The German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer once said “Every person takes the limits of their own field of vision for the limits of the world.” Reluctantly I must admit, in times past when considering Entrepreneurial Development, I similarly limited my field of vision in this arena of thought. Always expecting that someone else would take that particular ball and run, I am thankful others had a more noble vision.
The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center (SEC) in Florence, AL is a proven model for focusing efforts and resources on assisting citizens in beginning new business ventures and becoming successful. The DBD Advisory Board, under the leadership of Chairman Larry Waye, has set out to understand the proper path to pursue towards a revitalized and successful program. What works for other communities? What type of organization is best? Who shall best lead the program? How should the program become sufficiently self-funded? These are questions the DBD Advisory Board hopes to soon answer. Recommendations are planned for presentation to the Decatur City Council in the coming weeks.
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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 Anita McDonald Director of Operations and Events – ext. 100 anita@dcc.org Tiffany Brightwell Director of Investor Relations – ext. 101 tiffany@dcc.org
Blake McAnally Vice Chair of Business Development/Decatur Business Development Advisory Board
a word from your chamber leadership
Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce
December 2009
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community
One Morgan County Committee Chairs taking the Lead In the October 2009 issue of Directions, Chamber President John Seymour introduced readers to a new initiative called One Vision. One Voice. One Morgan County. This initiative identified six key areas Seymour called “a clear path to community success.” Since that time, six local volunteers have stepped up to lead the committees. If you are interested in learning more about this initiative or joining one of the groups, please contact Jim Page at 353-5312 or email Jim@dcc.org.
A Balanced Economy
sional organizations. He is currently involved with the Huntsville/Madison County and the Decatur-Morgan County Chambers of Commerce. Through his involvement, Will developed the BRAC Workforce Recruitment Plan for the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/ Madison County. This plan is currently being used to attract a workforce to the Tennessee Valley to support the needs of BRAC. Recently, Will facilitated the strategic planning process for the Workforce Coalition that resulted in the development of the Career Pathway program for the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce and Morgan County Economic Development Association.
Alabama Power, Michael worked on various community initiatives in Alabama to prepare small cities for economic and community development. Michael has extensive training and formal education in finance, grant writing and strategic planning for nonprofit agencies.
Diversity and New People
Quality Education Attainment and Availability
He is a graduate of Faulkner University, Auburn University Economic and Community Development Institute and Leadership Decatur-Morgan County. He is active in Decatur Daybreak Rotary and First Bible Church of Decatur. He also serves on the Morgan County United Way Board and the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce Board.
Will Bronaugh, Owner, Precipio, Inc. Will brings his expertise and dedication to his clients as owner of Precipio, Inc. The company provides recruiting and human capital solutions to companies and member organizations. Will directs these solutions and services for a variety of clients in the engineering, aerospace and defense, consulting, chamber and economic development organizations. He has extensive experience in change management, strategic planning, workforce planning, recruiting technology, behavioral interviewing and hiring at all levels of the organization. Will has a Bachelor of Science degree in human resource management from Auburn University. He earned an MBA with concentrations in finance and international business from Mercer University in Atlanta, GA. During graduate school Will studied abroad in the Netherlands, France and Switzerland. Aside from his professional work, Will is active in a variety of community and profes-
Michael Tubbs, CEO, Community Action Partnership of North Alabama Michael Tubbs is the Chief Executive Officer of the Community Action Partnership of North Alabama. Michael has been in this role since April 2005. The Partnership’s 400 employees produce comprehensive results for families in thirteen counties and its primary mission is to reduce or eliminate the causes and consequences of poverty in North Alabama. The Partnership is the largest non-profit in north Alabama and is one of the largest developers of affordable housing in Alabama. Michael is also the Chief Learning Officer of Learning to Lead, Inc. Prior to assuming his current leadership role, he worked for thirty years in various positions at Alabama Power Company, a subsidiary of Southern Company, the nation’s leading provider of energy. While at
Anne Marshall, Community and Education Activist Anne has over 19 years of professional experience. She received a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Colorado State University. After graduating she worked in a factory automation group for Northrop Aircraft Division in Hawthorne, California. Anne moved to Pueblo, Colorado, where she worked for the Trane Company for 15 years. As part of her community service, she was the chairperson for three years for a school site base committee in Pueblo School District 60. She had the opportunity to travel as parent/community representative and attend hands-on science seminar with the Smithsonian in Washington DC. She also served as a board member of the Boy and Girls Club of Pueblo.
Tom earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and chemistry from the University of Alabama Huntsville, where he also pursued graduate studies in environmental management. He is active with both the Decatur-Morgan County and the Huntsville/Madison County Chambers of Commerce, has been keynote speaker at various engagements, and has had many published professional works in addition to being a spokesperson for General Electric and Business Today on Discovery Channel and CNBC as a leading expert for circuit design and manufacturing.
Leadership – Dynamic, Visionary and Communitywide
Keeping our Best and Brightest Doug Bachuss, Partner, Nowlin, Bachuss & Gray
Tom Counts, President, 3-GIS, LLC
Judy M. Smith, Administrator, Public Health Area 2, Alabama Department of Public Health Judy participated in the initial healthcare focus group of this initiative in February 2009. She has 40 years of public health practitioner experience as an administrator for a seven-county area, nursing director for a seven-county area and numerous other management roles for multi-county areas. She has written numerous grant applications, including English language training for Hispanics to assist in their access to healthcare, a project for preventing unwed pregnancy and ten other significant grants dealing with rural and family healthcare. She has served as co-chair for the Health Division of the Governor’s Alabama Rural action Task Force since 2007. Judy’s healthcare education includes the University of Alabama, concentration on maternal and child health, St. Joseph’s College (Maine), healthcare administration and degree in nursing from the University of Alabama Hospitals and Clinics. She is a member of the Alabama Public Health Association Hall of Fame and has been honored by the UAB School of Public Health and numerous other healthcare associations and agencies.
December 2009
He is active with fund raising for the Morgan-Lawrence County Chapter of the American Red Cross and has been involved with Boards and Committees for the Tennessee Valley Outreach Rescue Mission, the Mental Health Center of North Alabama, the American Cancer Society and the Greater Morgan County Homebuilders Association. Mr. Bachuss has completed the
Healthcare – Quality and Access
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As President of 3-GIS, LLC, Tom has over twenty years of experience and education in product and program management, originally investing ten years at Intergraph and then as a founder of MESA Solutions. Tom delivered operational excellence at MESA Solutions as company President and maintained an annual growth greater than 35% during his entire tenure there. Tom is an evangelist of GIS solutions and is often invited to present his vision at various gathering around the world. At MESA, beyond operational management, Tom developed the international channel program and product management organizations. He then delivered for Telcordia Technologies as a Vice-President of Product Management before founding 3-GIS, LLC in his hometown of Decatur, Alabama. He has had vast experience in recruiting talent to his company and to Decatur.
Doug Bachuss is a member of Nowlin, Bachuss & Gray Law Firm, practicing in the areas of commercial and residential real estate closings, real estate development, probate law, family law, estate planning, contract law and business organizations. Mr. Bachuss received his B.S. degrees from the University of Alabama in 1991 and in 1992 and his J.D. degree from the University of Alabama School of Law in 1996. Mr. Bachuss has been a frequent speaker on topics related to real estate closings, estate planning and adoptions. He has assisted with international adoption finalization, stepparent adoptions, private adoptions, foster parent adoptions and legal custody proceedings in Madison, Morgan, Lawrence and Limestone Counties.
Leadership Decatur-Morgan County program through the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce, of which he is a member of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee, serving as Vice-Chair of Member Services. He currently oversees the leadership programs at the Chamber.
community
Anne moved to Decatur when her husband relocated with the Boeing Company. At that time, she decided to take a break from her professional engineering career and focus full time on community and school involvement. Since moving here, she has taken on leadership positions in organizations supporting the Decatur City schools. She was Vice President in 2005-2006 and President for 2006-2007of the PTA for Cedar Ridge Middle School. She is currently the Band Booster President and served as the First Vice President for two years. In 2008, Anne was selected to serve as a noneducator member of the Alabama Mathematics Course of Study Committee for grades 9-12. She has also been part of the Decatur City Schools capital review committee and a parent representative for the IB middle years review.
Renewing Members
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membership
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 October and November 2009. Adventure Travels Alabama Credit Union Alabama Ladder Company, Inc. Amedisys Home Health American National Insurance Webb Awtrey Agency Anderson Office Interiors, LLC Ascend Performance Materials B & B Landscaping Supplies, LLC BMSI BPI Transportation, Inc. Brickyard Landing Marina Burningtree Country Club Carnegie Visual Arts Center Cash USA, Inc Chenault, Hammond, & Hall, PC Clinic for Women, PA Coldwell Banker McMillan Associates The Corner Bakery & Eatery Cornerstone Baptist Church / Cornerstone Christian School Corporate Warehouse Services, Inc. Days Inn - Priceville Decatur Country Club Decatur Decorating Center Decatur Mill Service Company Decatur Neurology, PC Decatur Optical Dispensary Del Monte Pet Products DeltaCom - Huntsville Drake & Murphree Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
Early Services, Inc. Edward Jones Investments - Bank St Edward Jones Investments Danville Rd Enterprise Rent-A-Car Express Oil Change - 6th Ave First Baptist Church First South Farm Credit Great Southern Engineering, Inc. Hardy Chiropractic Harris, Caddell, & Shanks, PC Hexcel Corporation Home Pest Control HTI General Contractors Hummingbird Antiques @ BennettMcEntire House Interstate Steel, Inc. Stuary C. Irby Company Jenkins Brick Joe Wheeler Electric Membership Corporation Julia’s Pools Kaleidoscoops Lakeland Industries, Inc. Lee Wayne Corporation Promotional Product McGriff Tire Co. of Decatur Commercial Truck Tire Service Micor Industries, Inc. James Mize, MD Monarch Steel Co. of Alabama, Inc. Morgan-Price Candy Co., Inc. Morgan County Child Advocacy Center
Ed Nichols North Alabama Business Connections (NABC) North Alabama Glass Co., Inc. O’Charley’s, Inc. Papa Murphy’s Pizza Parents & Children Together, Inc. People, Inc. Pill Box Pharmacy Pitney Bowes Platinum Mortgage, Inc. Price-Denton Endodontics, LLC Pugh Wright McAnally Randall Sandlin, DMD Amanda G. Scott, Revenue Commissioner Select Physical Therapy ServiceMaster Cleaning & Restoration
Smarty Plants, Inc. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Steel Technologies StoneRiver, Inc. Supreme Beverage Company, Inc. Thermal Insulation, Inc. Toray Carbon Fibers America, Inc. TVW Electrical Supplies, Inc. Veterinary Regional Referral Hospital Volunteer Center of Morgan County, Inc. Westmeade Baptist Church Westminster Presbyterian Church Wheeler Basin Natural Gas Wheeler Estates Apartments WS Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Your Transmission Man, Inc.
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I N S P I R E D H E A LT H C A R E www.parkwayinspired.com
ribbon cuttings
Chenault PRO-Defense Martial Arts Academy
A Digital Reflection Photography & Videography
1000 Beltline Rd SW Ste J, Decatur • (256) 355-5303
217 Nelson St NW, Hartselle • (256) 345-3993
Food World #233
Send Out Cards
2019 6th Ave SE Ste 18, Decatur • (256) 355-9941
www.officiallyorganized.com • (256) 318-1810
DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP Sponsored by the Mental Health Association in Morgan County
For people who suffer from major depression or bipolar disorder. Family members are also welcome. 2nd and 4th Thursday at 6:30 p.m. MHA Office, 207 Commerce Circle SW
Member of the Depression & Bipolar Support Alliance
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
Excellence in Leadership The Excellence in Leadership class participated in SIMSOC in October. SIMSOC imitates a real society by focusing on the establishment and maintenance of social order. Thank you to Randy Mummert for facilitating SIMSOC. In November, the Excellence class studied Local Government. An overview of City and County Government was given by County Commissioners and City Council President Greg Reeves. The class also toured the Police and Fire Training Facilities along with Jack Allen Recreational Complex. Thank you to Todd Russell for leading Local Government Day.
special events
The Excellence class is also reading Ken Blanchard’s Book Leading at a Higher Level. Each month’s book review is being lead by class members. Thank you to Michael Tubbs for facilitating the monthly book review.
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Edge Student Leadership The Edge Student Leadership Program participated in the Ropes Course held at Decatur General West in October. The teambuilding exercises emphasized the growth of leadership skills among the Edge participants. Thank you to Decatur General West for facilitating the Ropes Course.
Ropes Course Sponsor
December 2009
In November, the Edge class participated in SIMSOC. The Edge participants learned about social order. Problem solving and leadership skills were used to throughout the game. Thank you to Randy Mummert for facilitating SIMSOC.
Presenting Sponsor
Business After Hours
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special events
The staff and residents of Riverside Senior Living opened their doors to showcase their facility during a Business After Hours event in late October. Chamber members had the opportunity to network in their courtyard area while enjoying live musical entertainment.
Coffee and Cards As they celebrated the grand opening of their new office on Point Mallard Parkway, Remax Platinum agents welcomed Chamber members for Coffee & Cards in November. If you are interested in showcasing your business by hosting a networking event in 2010, please contact Charlotte McKelvy or Tiffany Brightwell at 256-353-5312.
Breakfast and Biz
December 2009
Madison Mayor Paul Finley presented “Common Sense Marketing” to nearly 40 Chamber members during this quarter’s Breakfast & Biz, a partnership of the DecaturMorgan County Chamber of Commerce and the Women’s Business Center of North Alabama. Breakfast & Biz is a free event for members. Please email Jim@dcc.org for information on upcoming B&B events.
Presented by
Partners In Education Kicks Off Another Year
Gold Sponsors
Table Top Sponsors
Alabama Farmer’s Co-op Automatic Screw Machine Products Co., Inc. Micor Industries UAHuntsville
7th Annual Minority Awards Banquet
Presented by
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The Minority Development committee of the Workforce Development Coalition hosts an annual awards banquet to honor local minority-owned businesses for their success in the community. This year’s banquet, held at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, featured a keynote address from Alabama State Representative Merika Coleman, as well as a guest appearance by 2008 Olympic Heavyweight Boxing Bronze Medalist Deontay Wilder. The 2009 award winners were Al Robinson, Chris Bandaru (Busy Bee Market), Jewette R. Cowan (Reynolds Funeral Home), Dr. Larry Collier (Brookhaven Middle School), and Edwin Hicks (Logistical Auto & Towing). Awards were presented in the categories of Community Involvement, Longevity, Role Model, and Perseverance. For more information about this event, please contact Charlotte McKelvy at 353-5312 or email Charlotte@dcc.org.
workforce development
The Partners In Education program, a initiative of the Chamber’s Workforce Development Coalition, kicked off the 2009/2010 school year with a breakfast at Cedar Ridge Middle School in September. This program brings together local schools and businesses in partnerships benefiting both parties. Representatives from the schools and businesses met and spent time together during this breakfast. If you are interested in learning more about Partners In Education, please email Charlotte@dcc.org.
Dr. Sam Houston Gives 2009 State of the Schools Address Decatur City Schools Superintendent Dr. Sam Houston updated a group of over 150 regarding DCS progress during his first State of the Schools Address. This luncheon gave the public a chance to hear from Dr. Houston and school board president Karen Dukes. The Chamber is looking to add an event similar to this for Morgan County Schools in 2010. Silver Sponsor UAHuntsville
December 2009
Gold Sponsor Harris, Caddell & Shanks
The Chamber Wants You! total resource campaign
We are looking for a few good men & women to participate in our 2010 Total Resource Campaign. Training for the campaign will kick-off in January so don’t delay! If you think you have what it takes and are interested in learning more, call Charlotte or Tiffany at 353-5312.
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
New Members We thank the following businesses and organizations for their commitment to the Decatur-Morgan County area by becoming a member of the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber during the months of October and November 2009. We look forward to serving you!
Candy & The Divas Personal Assistants, LLC Candice Hayes 303-D Beltline Pl SW Ste 556 Decatur, AL 35603 Chenault PRO-Defense Martial Arts Academy Michelle Chenault 1000 Beltline Rd SW Ste J Decatur, AL 35601
Food World #131 1652 Beltline Rd SW Decatur, AL 35601 Food World #233 2019 6th Ave SE Ste 18 Decatur, AL 35601
Southern Reflections Richard Cobb 1416 6th Ave SE Decatur, AL 35601 Wally Terry 1018 Gordon Dr SE Decatur, AL 35601
PAETEC Communications Lisa Gordon 600 University Park Pl Ste 125 Birmingham, AL 35209
from the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce
That’s One Smart Tomato. Don’t let this economy squash your business • We create affordable marketing solutions Logoed Merchandise • Safety Awards • Employee Recognition View our Contact Dell Macklin Event Giveaways • Creative Marketing Solutions products online at today 256-355-6809 www.dellmacklin.leewaynecatalog.com dellmacklin@leewayne.com
membership
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
special events
State of the County Luncheon Morgan County Commission Chairman John Glasscock address a crowd of nearly 200 Chamber members, community and business leaders and elected officials during the 2009 State of the County Luncheon held in late October at the Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites. This event gives the Chairman a chance to discuss Morgan County’s progress over the past year with interested citizens. A similar event will be held for the City of Decatur in early 2010. Presented by
we’re here for you ... just like family
When times get tough, it’s good to have family. And at Redstone Federal Credit Union, members are like family. Your credit union is convenient, safe and secure with a variety of accounts to meet your needs. If you’re not already a member, visit any of the 20 branches to learn how easy it is to join. Redstone Federal Credit Union is Alabama’s largest member-owned financial institution. You can trust Redstone Federal Credit Union – just like family. This Credit Union is Federally Insured by the National Credit Union Administration.
2009 Fall Chamber Golf Classic The Chamber would like to thank all the men and women who braved the elements for our Fall Golf Classic at Burningtree Country Club. We would also like to congratulate the winners from our three flights:
special events
1st A: Chamber of Commerce (57) Justin Roberts, John Seymour, Carlton McMasters, Jim Page 2nd A: JW Steakhouse (58) Jody Witt, Todd Witt, Rick Sanders, Philip Smith 1st B: Valley Budweiser (65) Wade Weaver, John Honeycutt, David Bolding, Stewart Roby 2nd B: EFP Corporation (65) Melvin Russell, Joe Joyner, Mike Rose, Steve Lamb
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1st C: Cook’s Pest Control (67) Jay Rape, Joey Rape, Gerald Priest, Ronnie Murphy 2nd C: Plastics Recyclers (70) Henry Bragg, Johnny Atkins, Lyle Sanders, Jim Boyd Closest to pin: Steven Blakely (Hole #14) Longest drive: John Pylant (Hole #5)
Gold Sponsors
Title Sponsor
Allied Waste Services Burningtree Country Club
December 2009
Beverage Cart Sponsors Cintas Pepsi of Decatur
get details online at www.dcc.org
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
17th
1st
1st
Event: Decatur General Foundation Lights of Love Where: Decatur General Hospital Contact: Ellen Duncan 256-341-2187
Chamber Closed
Total Resource Campaign Begins!
14th
3rd
Event: Huntsville International Airport Regional Business After Hours Contact: Laura Gipson 256-259-1977
Event: Career & Workforce Expo Where: Calhoun Community College Contact: Charlotte McKelvy 256-3535312
18th Event: Friday at 5 Where: Carnegie Visual Arts Contact: 256-341-0562
18th Event: A Christmas Carol Where: Princess Theatre Contact: 256-340-1778
24th-25th Chamber Closed
15th 9am to 10am 4pm to 5pm Event: Total Resource Campaign Returning Volunteer Training Where: ‘TORAY’ Boardroom, Chamber of Commerce Contact: 256-353-5312
A complete list of community events can be found online at www.decaturcvb.org
22nd
29th Event: American Red Cross Blood Drive Where: Decatur Mall Contact: 256-350-0453
31st Chamber Closed
9am to 11am 3pm to 5pm Event: Total Resource Campaign New Volunteer Training Where: ‘TORAY’ Boardroom, Chamber of Commerce Contact: 256-353-5312
Inform. Inspire. Interact.
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events calendar
DECEMBER
Did you know? You can call the Chamber to help you celebrate a Grand Opening, relocation, remodel or change of ownership by requesting a Ribbon Cutting. Call Julie White to schedule your Ribbon Cutting.
December 2009
256-353-5312 www.dcc.org
Have you seen the Chamber’s new website? The address is still www.dcc.org, but the site is entirely new. Go online to check it out today!
American Cancer Society Huntsville Office Moves to New Location Huntsville, Al – The American Cancer Society of Huntsville will serve patients from a new location beginning December 8th. After 10 years at its current location on Memorial Parkway, the Huntsville office will be relocating to 2745 Bob Wallace Avenue, Suite- A, Huntsville, AL 35805. “We are looking forward to the move to have the necessary facilities to better assist our patients and constituents,” said Jo Ann Henderson, American Cancer Society Executive Director for North Alabama.
For more information about the relocation or open house, call the American Cancer Society at 536-1855. The American Cancer Society saves lives and creates more birthdays by helping you stay well, helping you get well, by finding cures, and by fighting back. cancer.org 1.800.227.2345
Fite Building Co., Inc. was featured in an article written by David Thornell in the October 2009 issue of Business Alabama for a building project on Redstone Arsenal. During site preparation for the new System Software Engineering Annex for the US Army in 2007, they uncovered an unexploded mortar round. Luckily, the mortar was successfully removed and the project went on as planned.
Sight conservation has been an international program for Lions since 1925 when Alabama’s own Helen Keller issued an inspiring challenge at the ninth annual convention of the International Association of Lions, and in 1944, a proposal to provide state-wide sight services was approved by the Alabama Lions Club. To learn more about Decatur Lions Club, please contact any member. Volunteer Center Introduces “Volunteering to Work” In response to the increased number of company lay-offs, the Volunteer Center is offering a “Volunteering to Work” service to corporations and small businesses wishing to place workers in volunteer positions. Volunteer placement services will also be helpful to individuals who wish to have the opportunity to be productive while applying for paying positions. Hopefully this service will help workers keep the gaps out of their resumes, make new contacts, and find joy in helping others. Please consider referring groups of workers or individuals to this service if you feel that it may be helpful to them. To contact the Volunteer Center of Morgan County, please call 256-3558628
Jeremy W. Nails Wins Award for Excellence in Local Economic Development Jeremy W. Nails, President of the Morgan County Economic Development Association, was awarded the North Alabama Industrial Development Association (NAIDA) President’s Award for excellence in local economic development Tuesday, September 15, 2009. The award was presented by Tate Godfrey, President/CEO of NAIDA at their Annual Industrial Development
December 2009
In the article, Thornell writes that the “learning curve was steep for Fite Building Co., a 35-year-old, full-service general contracting and construction management firm based in Decatur. Besides buried explosives, this was their first project with the U.S. Government and/or the Corps of Engineers.” Fite not only received four quarterly safety awards for no losttime accidents, they also received the Associated Builders and Contractors of North Alabama award for 2008 Project of the Year. Other local firms involved with the project were Pugh Wright McAnally and M&D Mechanical Contractors.
The Decatur Lions Club, which was organized in 1938, is seeking new members to support their club motto – We Serve. The DLC Local Sight Conservation Program provides eye exams and glasses for many indigent people and is funded by the club’s annual golf tournament.
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Fite Building Co., Inc. featured in Business Alabama
Decatur Lions Club Seeking Your Support
chamber chat
An open house and ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at the new office location February 2nd from 2pm-3pm. Refreshments will be served and tours will be available. Last year, the American Cancer Society helped 2,536 patients in the Tennessee Valley through programs and services such as college scholarships, free nights at Hope Lodge in Birmingham, transportation grants to treatment, wigs, prosthetics and gift items, the Look Good…Feel Better program, Reach to Recovery, Man to Man and more.
For more information regarding the article, please visit www.BusinessAlabama.net. To learn more about Fite Building Co., Inc. please visit www.fitebuilding.com or call 353-5759.
Conference held at The Shoals Marriott and Convention Center.
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chamber chat
The North Alabama Industrial Development Association developed the President’s Award for excellence in local economic development. This award recognizes a local economic development professional in North Alabama who exemplifies the highest standards of the profession. Godfrey stated “Morgan County existing industry invested almost $700,000,000 for expansion in 2008. This was 74% of the total expansion investment in the twelve county North Alabama region and 28% of the total expansion investment for the state of Alabama. Also, under Nails leadership, Morgan County is in the process of developing a new industrial park on I-65 in Hartselle. This park is a joint effort of the municipalities within the county, the Morgan County Commission and the Decatur/Morgan County Port Authority.
regional economic development; continuously exhibits high professional standards; is consistent and steadfast in their efforts and always displays creativity and teamwork. “Each community in North Alabama is blessed with competent, well-trained and experienced economic development professionals. This award, presented by the staff of NAIDA, is intended to recognize that professional who has gone the extra mile during the past year. The award is intended to be a small sign of appreciation for a job well done,” Godfrey said. NAIDA is a sixty year old regional economic development organization whose mission is to recruit new jobs and corporate investment to the 13 county, North Alabama region. Based in Decatur, they are funded by 21 electric distributors of TVA power, TVA and 36 corporate partners. For more information, contact: Cindy Burns at NAIDA, 256-353-9450
The NAIDA President’s award is presented to an individual who: is dedicated to their community; is highly supportive of
New Website CareerPathway.info Set to Launch in December Career Pathway, a joint project of the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce Workforce Development Coalition and Morgan County Economic Development Association, was created to help you find the right path for your career choice. Whether you are a student looking for some direction in choosing a career or an educator who wants to provide guidance for your students, a job seeker or someone looking to upgrade your skills and marketability, careerpathway.info has what you need. Call the Chamber at 353-5312 for more information.
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”
TRC Schedule EVENT
DATE
TIME
New Volunteer Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Friday, Jan. 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9am to 11am . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3pm to 5pm Kick-Off Luncheon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Wednesday, Jan. 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .TBA Open Campaign Begins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Monday, Feb. 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8am Reward Luncheon #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tuesday, Feb. 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Noon @ Chamber Reward Luncheon #2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tuesday, Feb. 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Noon @ Chamber Reward Luncheon #3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tuesday, Feb. 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Noon @ Chamber Reward Luncheon #4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tuesday, Feb. 23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Noon @ Chamber Reward Luncheon #5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tuesday, March 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Noon @ Chamber Reward Luncheon #6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tuesday, March 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Noon @ Chamber Reward Luncheon #7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tuesday, March 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Noon @ Chamber Reward Luncheon #8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tuesday, March 23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Noon @ Chamber Campaign Ends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Friday, March 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5pm
total resource campaign
Returning Volunteer Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Friday, Jan. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9am to 10am . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4pm to 5pm
Victory Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Thursday, April 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .TBA
19
What a great time I had last year working on the TRC campaign! I went into the campaign hoping to bring positive awareness to my company, Decatur Mall. I made great business contacts and lots of new friends. Several of the contacts have actually helped me this year in my business. We worked hard, laughed a lot and as a group worked hard to support our chamber and our community! I really look forward to being on the TRC again this year!
When I was recruited to join the Chamber’s TRC, my first reaction was ‘Great...another membership drive... been there...done that.’ Was I WRONG!
Kathy Hammond Decatur Mall
Carol Boyd Regions Bank
The TRC volunteers have become like a family to me. We work hard for the good of the Chamber members. You are missing a great opportunity to make a difference in our community and have a great time doing it if you don’t participate!
Volunteering with the TRC allows me a fun way to network and meet many new people in the business community. Not only have I had fun, I have gained new clients and earned money! December 2009
Ellen Didier, President Red Sage Communications, Inc.
Published for the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce by Tennessee Valley Printing Company, Inc. P.O. Box 2213 • Decatur, Alabama 35609-2213 Charles W. Rogers Special Projects, Tennessee Valley Printing Company, Inc. 340-2354
Stephen V. Johnson Graphic Designer
(256) 353-5312 Fax: (256) 353-2384 E-Mail: chamber@dcc.org Internet: http://www.dcc.org PO Box 2003 Decatur, Alabama 35602-2003
Address Service Requested Periodicals Postage Paid at Decatur, AL
Tiffany Brightwell Editorial Coordinator/Writer
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.
Picture a World
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256.341.2000 WEAREdecaturgeneral.org