Complex businesses demand expert banking solutions. That’s where we come in. At Synovus, we mean business. From commercial financing and capital market expertise to treasury services and international expansion assistance, we have the banking solutions to successfully address your complex business needs. Find out how we can help you. 1-888-SYNOVUS | synovus.com
Synovus Bank, Member FDIC.
ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
3
BIZ ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE VOL. 19 / ISSUE 1
President & CEO, Editor Bårbara Rivera Holmes Chair Scott Tomlinson Chair Elect Perry Revell Printing US Business Products Photography Todd Stone Ad Sales Mary Bickerstaff Marketing Agency MADlab Marketing Business (U.S.P.S. 886-680) is published by the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, 225 W. Broad Avenue, Albany, Georgia 31701. Subscription rate of $50 is included in membership investment. Periodicals postage paid at Albany, Georgia. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Business Magazine, 225 W. Broad Avenue, Albany, Georgia, 31701. For more information about this publication or advertising rates, call (229) 434-8700. This publication is produced by the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce. Reproduction in whole or part of this publication without expressed written consent of the publisher is prohibited. All claims, materials, and photos furnished or used are, to the publisher’s knowledge, true and correct. Hence liability cannot be assumed by the publisher for errors or by the publisher for errors or omissions. Advertisements and editorial information published in this publication is subject to the unrestricted right to edit of, and by, our editor/publisher. U.S. Postal Service Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation. Date of Filing: 9/29/08
TABLE OF
CON T E N T S 06 Comments from the Chairman Scott Tomlinson shares his goals as the 2019 Chamber chairman. 07 A Message from the Chamber President Bárbara Rivera Holmes discusses the statewide business climate. 08 Q & A with Georgia Chamber CEO Chris Clark discusses the state-wide and local business climate. 10 How to Get Involved You’re a Chamber Member – now what?
More than 1,000 participants gathered on December 8, for the 30th Annual Jingle Bell Jog, which consisted of a 5K run/walk, 10K run and 1-mile Fun Run. All proceeds benefit the Children’s Miracle Network and are used to purchase life-saving equipment to treat children at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital.
ON THE COVER: Scott Tomlinson, 2019 Chairman of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, is featured at Flint Community Bank, where he has served as CEO since opening the bank in 2006.
AlbanyGA.com
11
Thank You, Leland Burkart! After 20 years of service. Military Affairs Committee Chairman retires
12 Leadership Georgia Chooses Albany The Good Life City to host top Georgia leaders this spring. 16 Albany Area Chamber of Commerce 2018 Annual Report Updates from the chamber's programmatic divisions. 30 Welcome, 2019 Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman Scott Tomlinson, CEO of Flint Community Bank 32 Highlights Recent Chamber events and highlights
Follow us on Facebook
COM M E N T S
FROM T HE 2 01 9 C HAI RM AN South Georgia has been home for most of my life. My family settled in Albany in December of 1994, just months after the devastating flood. It did not take me long to realize our new home was a community of vibrancy and resilience. These key assets have been seen throughout the years as we’ve bounced back from natural disasters and recessions. It is my honor to serve as the 2019 Chairman of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce. I am confident I will grow as an individual while supporting the growth of this great city. My goal is to build upon what our Chamber has already begun telling the good news that abounds in our community and collaborating with other individuals and entities as we work together for pervasive success. Additionally, I want to support advocacy for our community and businesses through increased communication with local, state, and federal government officials by continuing to build the important relationships we already enjoy. I appreciate this opportunity to serve our community through the local Albany Area Chamber of Commerce and invite you to join with me to make it flourish! - SCOTT TOMLINSON
6
JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2019
M ES SAGE
F RO M T H E P R ES I DE NT & C EO Each year, we provide you, our membership, with an overview of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce’s work during the last year. The report is a high-level overview of the programs that the chamber’s divisions undertake throughout the year in support of the membership, the community and advancing Albany’s economic success. From military affairs to legislative affairs and economic development to education, the Chamber’s work represents the activities of staff and more than 100 volunteers deeply committed to strengthening the Albany Area through business engagement. I am proud of the work of the Chamber, and thank 2018 Board Chair Tammy McCrary and the Board of Directors for their vision, leadership and ongoing support of this vital organization. While the close of a year allows for assessment and perspective, the start of a new year brings with it a new hope of what can be. It allows for enhancing and expanding the efforts of the previous year and for a run at new initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life and business atmosphere of Albany-Dougherty County and the Albany Area. I am confident in the continued positive growth of our community and region and am excited about what’s ahead. I am thankful for the opportunity to lead the Albany Area Chamber and to work with an incredible group of community and business leaders who share a passion, vision and commitment for the Albany Area Chamber and the Albany Area. -BÁRBARA RIVERA HOLMES
ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
7
Q&A WITH CHRIS CLARK GEORGIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CEO
A
s recently as five years ago, even given his lofty position as president & CEO of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Chris Clark’s words would have been deemed blasphemy. But that was then, and as Clark knows all too well, this is now.
“There was all that stuff about two Georgias for so long, but that’s not the case now,” Clark said before heading home to “God’s Country” in Fitzgerald for some south Georgia Thanksgiving R&R. “It’s no longer about location, location, location. It’s about talent, talent, talent.” That bit of accepted new-age wisdom, the state Chamber CEO said, has helped bridge — if only slightly, given the mammoth chasm that has long existed — the gap between Georgia’s booming capital city and the rest of the state, especially rural areas like those that exist in most of south Georgia.
8
JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2019
“Georgia has been named the No. 1 state in which to do business for six years running now, and that’s a pretty nice calling card,” Clark said. “It affirms that we as a state are, businesswise, moving in the right direction. But a strong business environment is not just about what’s going on in Atlanta and with our state leaders. It’s proof — and a reminder — that our local leaders have a role to play if we’re to maintain that environment. “Gov. Nathan Deal has done an excellent job of leading Georgia’s economic growth, and I think that will continue under (Governor-Elect) Brian Kemp. But it would have continued under Stacey Abrams, too. She had a different approach, but the truth is that Georgia’s leadership statewide has developed a strong pro-business, pro-
growth approach, and it’s one that is now putting a lot of focus on the rural part of the state.” Pointing to the opening this year of a statewide Chamber office in Tifton, Clark said the talk about bringing rural and smaller sectors of the state along is more than just lip service. “There were 18 recommendations endorsed by the state Chamber put into law during this past legislative session that are budgeted to directly help rural Georgia,” he said. “These are incentives that are going to bring broadband into areas that are lagging way behind in that respect, public/private partnerships that will include these parts of the state with the technology necessary to compete in today’s business climate. “And, as you guys are seeing down in Southwest Georgia and Albany with the programs at your (Commodore Conyers) College and Career Academy and at Albany Technical College and Albany State University, education is now geared toward the careers of the future. It’s important that your Chamber and your educational institutions focus on the fact that 60 percent of the graduates of your schools will have jobs five years from now that don’t currently exist. And 60 percent of the jobs now won’t exist in 2025.”
As the region moves forward in an increasingly competitive business environment, Clark said it will be important for Southwest Georgians to pool resources. “Your Albany Area Chamber and Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission have already started the process of coordinating with other communities in the region,” Clark said. “It's what you’ll have to do to continue to make advancements. It can’t be all competition; the people in Albany have to consider a win in Moultrie and a win in Tifton as a win for their city, too. There are things you can do as a region that you wouldn’t be able to do as individual communities. “And you guys down there have to keep telling your story. You have some tremendous assets there. A lot of economic developers across the country say the Georgia Quail Hunt is the premiere economic development marketing event in the country. That’s what you have to do: market yourselves and make sure the world knows about the great quality of life you have there.”
Clark said natural disasters such as Hurricane Michael in October and the twin storms that hit Albany-Dougherty County and Southwest Georgia in 2017 are a wake-up call for local and state officials. “I’m very proud that the governor called that special session to address the needs of that area hit by the hurricane,” the Georgia Chamber CEO said. “But what local officials must do as these communities rebuild is invest in infrastructure that can adapt to these kinds of weather phenomena. I think there in Albany, while the rebuilding process takes away from your assets in the short-term, you see important community employers like Procter & Gamble and Coats and Clark doubling down, actually adding to their investment in your community. “It’s because these very strong and very smart business leaders know and love the people in Southwest Georgia. They’re willing to invest in those people and those communities.” ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
9
HOW TO GET IN VOLV ED You’ve joined the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce – now what? Involvement is the key that unleashes the benefits that Chamber membership offers while contributing to the vibrant growth of our organization and community. There are several ways you can get involved.
Become an Ambassador.
From ribbon cuttings to special events, Ambassadors serve as the face of the Chamber to the community.
At tend Events.
Chamber events are designed with relevant content and networking in mind, providing the opportunity for businessmen and women to connect in a fun and casual environment.
Spon sor a Special Event.
Sponsors are essential for a successful Chamber event. Your organization will receive extensive print and online publicity for financial sponsorships. Opportunities are also available to host Business After Hours or to provide sponsored giveaways at various events.
Ser ve on a Commit tee.
One of the best ways to get involved in the Chamber is to use your voice! Serving on one of our committees will allow you the platform to suggest new ideas and develop deeper business relationships with other Chamber leaders.
Contact us for more information on getting involved with the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce!
10
JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2019
THANK LELAND YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE
BURKART
After more than 20 years in the role, Leland Burkart in 2018 officially "retired" as chairman of the Albany Area Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee. Burkart, a past chairman of the Chamber and the 2016 recipient of the Chamber’s Lifetime Service Award, dedicated the last two decades to strengthening the valuable relationship and partnership between the community and Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany (MCLBA), advocating at the local, state and federal levels on the importance of the installation. Burkart, who served in the United States Army, was celebrated in November during the committee’s annual holiday social, which brings together the committee, base leadership and leaders from throughout the community. “The Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee is the glue that binds the base to the community, and Leland has been the driver of that very important task,” said Chamber President and CEO Barbara Rivera Holmes. “We are indebted to his service.” Col. Dan Gillan, CEO of the Albany Area YMCA and former commander of the Marine Depot Maintenance Command at Marine Corps Logistics Command aboard MCLBA, assumes the role of MAC chairman.
Together We Can...
AUDIT | ACCOUNTING | TAX SERVICES For over 100 years, our goal has been to build relationships through commitment, quality and dedication to our clients. There’s no better time to see how we can help your business exceed your goals, overcome challenges and take advantage of unique opportunities!
2303 DAWSON ROAD | ALBANY, GEORGIA 31707
229-446-3600 | MJCPA.COM
ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
11
ALBANY
SELECT CITY
STATE LEADERSHIP GROUP CHOOSES TO SHOWCASE ALBANY
ON MARCH 14-16, LEADERSHIP GEORGIA WILL SHINE THE SPOTLIGHT ON ALBANY WHEN SOME OF THE STATE’S TOP LEADERS, MEMBERS OF THE CLASS OF 2019, GATHER HERE AS PART OF THIS YEAR’S STATEWIDE LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM. From its beginnings in 1971, when the idea for such a program was first proposed during an informal conversation between several key business leaders at a Georgia Chamber of Commerce meeting, Leadership Georgia has grown to become one of the nation’s oldest and most successful leadership training programs for young business, civic, and community leaders. Each year, approximately 60 individuals are chosen from hundreds of applicants across the state to participate in Leadership Georgia, one of the few statewide programs of its kind to include – and even stress – spousal participation. Together with their spouses, class members visit five communities in different parts of the state over the course of a year to learn about the issues that face each community 12
JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2019
and the resources that are available to meet those challenges. When Leadership Georgia Class of 2019 President Jennifer Evans began looking at possible communities to include in this year’s program, she knew she wanted the group to take a second look at some communities that had not been featured in at least 10 years. Leadership Georgia last visited Albany in 2005 and, thanks to strong alumni support, the community made the cut to become one of the five sites selected for a 2019 visit. “Four Leadership Georgia alumni approached me to consider Albany for a site visit this year,” Evans notes. “Bárbara Rivera Holmes, Justin Strickland, Deidra Langstaff, and Mary Beth Hobby all encouraged us to take a look at Albany and all of the progress that the community has made since our last visit 14 years ago. I think it will be a very enlightening trip for our group.” Ryan Waldrep and his wife, Amanda, are serving as Leadership Georgia program chairs to coordinate the
Albany visit. “We’re excited as individuals and also on behalf of the Leadership Georgia organization to work with the strong alumni base there and take an in-depth look at Albany and Dougherty County,” said Ryan Waldrep, a member of the class of 2014. “We are designing a program that will allow our participants to see how Albany has overcome challenges to become the success that it is. We want them to be able to take some of Albany’s ideas and best practices home to make their own communities stronger.” Albany Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Bárbara Rivera Holmes, a member of the Leadership Georgia Class of 2014 and and who serves on the organization's board of trustees, is looking forward to the opportunity to host the group in her own community. JENNIFER EVANS, LEADERSHIP GEORGIA PRESIDENT
"ALBANY IS EXPERIENCING A RENAISSANCE," HOLMES SAID. "WE HAVE FACED SOME CHALLENGES IN THE LAST FEW YEARS, AND WE HAVE BEEN ABLE TO WORK TOGETHER TO GET THROUGH THOSE CHALLENGES. THIS VISIT WILL GIVE US A CHANCE TO TELL THE STORY OF WHERE ALBANY HAS BEEN AND WHERE WE ARE GOING. I EXPECT THAT WE’LL CHANGE SOME PERSPECTIVES ABOUT ALBANY AND ALSO GATHER SOME GOOD IDEAS FROM OTHERS. LEADERSHIP GEORGIA IS FOCUSED ON BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS, AND YOU NEVER KNOW WHERE THESE RELATIONSHIPS CAN LEAD." ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
13
Holmes cites one example that grew out of an informal class gathering at Albany’s Merry Acres in 2014. Dalton businessman and state representative Kasey Carpenter, who already owned a couple of Dalton restaurants and a brewing company, was impressed with fellow Leadership Georgia participant Bo Henry’s business model in Albany. Inspired by Henry, Carpenter is planning to build a boutique hotel across the street from his restaurants in downtown Dalton this year. “During the group’s visit, Albany’s local economy will get a boost from the nearly 175 people filling hotel rooms and eating at local restaurants for three days, but the greatest impacts will be long lasting,” Holmes said.
MARK YOUR CALENDERS FOR TH E ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 109TH
ANNUAL DINNER J AN UAR Y 24, 2019
H I LTO N G ARD E N I NN 10 1 SO UTH F RO NT S TR EET A L BA NY
14
JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2019
SPEC IA L PR E SE N TATIO N S YOUN G PR OFES SION AL OF T HE Y EAR & LIFET IME SER VICE AWAR D R ESER VATI O N S & SP O NS O R SH IPS M A R Y BI C K ER S TAFF
LBANY ELEVATOR SERVICE 1432 US Hwy 19 South 229.436.7131 AlbanyElevator.com
“It’s all about relationships, exposure, and awareness,” she said. “Some areas of the state have more exposure than others, but this visit is a great opportunity for us to show off the Albany we are proud of and to highlight our growth. Leadership Georgia has a robust network of people who care about our state so much, and they will be great cheerleaders for our community, too. By sharing our story, the support and perspective we will gain from these state leaders have the potential to yield economic success and positive momentum for Albany and Dougherty County.
THE RELATIONSHIPS WE BUILD AND THE AWARENESS WE RAISE WILL CONTINUE TO PAY DIVIDENDS FOR OUR COMMUNITY FOR YEARS TO COME."
ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
15
Annual Repor t
2018
"It has been an honor to serve as the 2018 Chair of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce."
TAMMY M C CRARY
A
Year in Review
n organization like the Chamber is only as strong as its leadership, so I thank my colleagues on the Chamber’s Executive Committee and each member of the Chamber's Board of Directors for the time and wisdom that made this year successful. Also, a sincere thank you to the Chamber’s President & CEO, Barbara Rivera Holmes, and her hardworking team, who were instrumental in my success this year. Along with an outstanding staff and dedicated board members, our Chamber represents a network of business and individuals working together to “Grow Business in our Community.” The sign of any stable and prosperous organization is continued improvement year after year. Our Chamber is no different. Each new year has brought record attendance, new and exciting events, and growth in membership. The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce continues to innovate and evaluate itself, making it one of the most successful, stable, and influential chambers in the state of Georgia. The Chamber achieved many remarkable accomplishments this year that will create a solid foundation for the Chamber to support future business in our region and I am confident the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce will continue to exceed expectations. Now is the best time to be a member of the Chamber. Time and time again, I hear success stories from members who have made valuable connections, saved money, or learned business skills thanks to the Chamber. The Chamber’s varied networking opportunities continues to open doors for businesses to build relationships and meet new customers. 16
JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2019
We are here to help your business grow and bring jobs and commerce to our region. We understand you are busy, so the Chamber hosts events morning, noon and night, to assure there is something for everyone. Also, our Chamber will continue collaborations with businesses, government, and other organizations to elevate our region and ensure we have the best possible climate for business in the Albany Area. The 2018 Annual Report highlights many of our achievements and information about the Chamber and how it can benefit you and your business. Please take the time to read the annual review and see what you might be missing! In closing, I am proud of what we have accomplished together and humbled to have served with a fantastic group of volunteers. In 2019, under the talented guidance of Scott Tomlinson, CEO of Flint Community Bank, we will continue to meet the needs of the future.
ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Staff Members
Bรกrbara Rivera Holmes
Mary Bickerstaff
PRESIDENT & CEO
DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP
Donna Gray
Lovick Shippey
DIRECTOR OF SALES
CONTROLLER
ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
17
Annual Repor t
2018
DIVISION UPDATES
Education Committee • 38 active committee members • Priority One! Volunteer/Mentor Program continues to process volunteer applications at the Dougherty County School System, Sherwood Christian Academy and Deerfield- Windsor School with plans to expand the program to Chamber membership-wide •
Volunteers/mentors have been connecte to schools through the Albany Area Chamber’s Priority One! Volunteer/Mentor Program. Priority One! connects Chamber members who want to serve as volunteers/ mentors with the Dougherty County School System and the private and parochial schools. The volunteers/mentors provide real-world guidance and support to students.
•
Go SEE! School Visit/Tour Continue to schedule and visit/tour schools in the area; tours included Lake Park Elementary, Morningside Elementary School, and plans for Deerfield-Windsor
• Presentation by the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy (4CA), and tour of 4CA • Presentation by the area leaders on First Robotics – program, competition, how to be involved • The 4CA Robotics Team presented and shared their trip to the competition at the Nationals • Presentation on the Lt. Governor Casey Cagle’s 2018 Business and Education Summit • Updates on Priority One! and Go SEE! • Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy: Highlights, achievements and events thru end of the first year, and beginning of the second year by the great Leadership and Staff of 4CA: • First year Honors Day was on May 8; 158 (out of 280) students received A/AB Honor Roll, and STAR awards • Building dedication to Commodore Conyers on May 31 • Growing robotics program that includes students from programming, drafting, engineering, mechatronics, nursing, marketing and graphic design pathways • Robotics team won the Rookie All-Star Award for the State of Georgia • Qualified and competed in the International Robotics Competition in Houston, TX • Offered a summer internship program that connected 4CA students with local businesses • Held a middle school STEM summer camp in partnership with P&G Interns and 4CA Robotics • Second year includes 600 students from Dougherty, Monroe, Westover, Terrell County, Calhoun County and Baker County Schools • Hosted Lt. Governor Casey Cagle’s 2018 Business and Education Summit in August • Created GatherUp, a community services project to gather and distribute canned goods
• Go SEE! School Visit/Tour program • Builds relationships and partners • Provides exposure to community schools • Creates awareness of the achievements, and needs, of community schools • Connects business leaders with students and teachers, and creates advocates for business engagement in education • Committee meetings during the year • Invited STAR Students/Teachers from area schools as guest speakers to share their achievements and future plans 18
JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2019
4C ACADEMY PARTICIPATED IN THE GEORGIA FIRST ROBOTICS COMPETITION HELD IN ALBANY IN APRIL
• Hosted Albany-Dougherty Day in Atlanta, bringing community and business leaders together with state policy makers including Gov. Nathan Deal, Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle, House Speaker David Ralston and Chancellor Steve Wrigley of the University System of Georgia. Albany-Dougherty Day is an annual event that showcases Albany at the state Capitol.
ALBANY-DOUGHERTY DAY IN ATLANTA
Leg islative Affairs Committee • Created and promoted 2018 legislative priorities that impact the Albany Area and Georgia •
Led the advocacy effort for the Freeport Exemption on electronic fulfillment centers in Albany and Dougherty County, a pro-business measure strengthens the community’s competitiveness. Freeport, which was on the November 6 election ballot, passed with 72 percent voter approval. Dougherty County is the sixth county in the state to adopt this incentive for this growing industrial sector.
•
Hosted 2018 Washington DC Fly In, during which local leadership met with top United States Marine Corps officials and U.S. Senators Johnny Isakson and David Perdue and U.S. Representatives Sanford Bishop and Austin Scott. During the Chamber-led Fly In, local officials and advocate for Albany-Dougherty County and the Albany Area.
•
Hosted inaugural Federal Luncheon, which featured former U.S. Sen. Saxby Chambliss, who spoke to a regional audience about the national economic policy, cyber security and provided perspective on what’s ahead in Washington and how it could impact Southwest Georgia.
• Honored Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal during the inaugural Governor’s Dinner, which recognized the accomplishments of Deal’s administration. The event also highlighted the
ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
19
work of First Lady Sandra Deal, a champion of education and literacy in Georgia. In honor of the Deals, the Albany Area Chamber announced the creation of the Nathan Deal and Sandra Deal Scholarship, and partnered with the Dougherty County School System to award the Sandra Deal Early Childhood Literacy Prize, which was presented to West Town Elementary School.
• Participated in the Georgia Chamber of Commerce’s DC Fly In, which brings together business leaders from Georgia to Washington in the nation’s capitol.
Military Affairs
THE ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HONORED MILITARY PERSONNEL DURING THE MILITARY APPRECIATION RISE N SHINE BREAKFAST AT MERRY ACRES EVENT CENTER ON JULY 18
• Supported expansion of 3D printing initiative at Marine Depot Maintenance Command at Marine Corps Logistics Command in Albany.
• Honored outgoing Marine leaders Maj. Gen. Craig C. Crenshaw and Col. James C. Carroll, whose tours in Albany ended during the summer of 2018.
• Advocated for ongoing storm recovery needs of Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany.
• Military Affairs Committee hosted holiday social, an annual event that brings together Marine leadership and the business community.
• Advocated to Congressional members for Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany and Marine Corps Logistics Command. •
Supported 2nd annual military communities meeting with U.S. Senator David Perdue, which aims to strengthen Georgia as a military state through analysis of needs, opportunities and threats.
•
Military Affairs Committee hosted Salty Sandbagger Golf Tournament between the Albany Area Chamber and the leadership of Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany and Marine Corps Logistics Command.
20
JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2019
• Honored Marines and military personnel during the annual Military Appreciation Rise N Shine Breakfast. • Attended numerous on-base events in support of Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, its leadership and its personnel. •
In 2018, Marine leadership, the Chamber and the Military Affairs Committee bid farewell to MAC’s longtime chairman, Leland Burkart, who retired from the volunteer position after more than 20 years of service.
Economic Development •
Partnered with the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission and local elected officials on the Freeport Exemption for electronic fulfillment centers, a pro-business effort that benefits existing industries in Albany-Dougherty County.
•
In partnership with Albany Technical College, rolled out the new Albany Transportation Academy, which aims to increase the diesel mechanic and CDL driver pipeline to meet Albany’s growing needs.
•
Supported private-sector investment in the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission, a partnership of the Albany Area Chamber, the city of Albany and Dougherty County. The ADEDC’s mission is to facilitate job creation and business investment through the recruitment and retention of industry for AlbanyDougherty County.
member networking event, to strengthen current Chamber relationships and engage potential members.
•
Worked with the ADEDC to support the recruitment of Georgia-Pacific’s new state-of-the-art lumber production facility in Albany, a $150 million capital investment project that will create 130 new jobs.
•
• Supported work force development initiatives that help align educational opportunities and programs with the needs of business and industry. • Supported needs of industry during the impact and aftermath of Hurricane Michael, ensuring industries were operational as soon as possible.
Small Business & Membership Division •
Hosted successful Small Business Week in May that included a sold-out Women in Business Luncheon; Lunch and Learn in partnership with the UGA Small Business Development Center; small business Webinar; and Small Business Celebration to recognize outstanding Small businesses and non-profit organizations. Small Business of the Year was awarded to Southern Point Staffing and Non-Profit of the Year was awarded to the Albany Area YMCA.
• Hosted the Small Business Expo in September giving Chamber members the opportunity to showcase their organizations and market their businesses. • Formation of Breakfast at Doublegate, a quarterly
THE NEW ALBANY TRANSPORTATION ACADEMY AIMS TO INCREASE THE DIESEL MECHANIC AND CDL DRIVER PIPELINE TO MEET ALBANY’S GROWING NEED
• Successfully supported member recruitment and retention efforts. • Assisted members with hurricane preparedness resources in anticipation of Hurricane Michael. Individually communicated with nearly 800 members after Hurricane Michael to assess needs and provide access to resources to help members become operational as soon as possible and minimize negative economic impacts in the aftermath.
Lifelong learners all start here! Our students’ thirst for knowledge is continually fed. Opportunities for academic success, fine arts and athletic competition abound! We build students who succeed far beyond the classroom experience. Register your child, and let the journey of lifelong learning begin today!
DEERFIELD-WINDSOR SCHOOL
229-435-1301
ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
21
Annual Repor t
2018
ECOMONIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION UPDATES The Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission commits itself to what we call the "Three R’s of Economic Development," being the recruitment of new industry, the retention and expansion of existing industry and the renewal and marketing of community assets. We’re proud to report that as an organization and as a community, we’ve seen progress on all three of these fronts. We were very excited to announce in August 2018 the location of Georgia-Pacific’s state-of-the-art lumber production facility at the Albany-Dougherty Industrial Park. Construction on the $150 million, 320,000-square foot, technologically advanced plant is scheduled to begin in 2018 with an anticipated startup in late fall 2019. Once fully operational, the plant is expected to employ more than 130 fulltime employees and generate an estimated $5 million in annual payroll. Georgia-Pacific - one of the world’s leading manufacturers of tissue, pulp, paper, packaging, building products and related chemicals – is an Atlanta-based company, currently operating 18 facilities in the state, including a corrugated box plant located in Albany since 1981. We are proud to be adding Georgia-Pacific lumber to the extensive list of “#MadeInAlbanyGA” products!
Recruitment
Existing industry continues to reaffirm the value of doing business in Albany by investing in the community and expanding their operations. In the last year we saw expansions from several key industries, including 40 new jobs at restaurant and kitchen supply store WebstaurantStore as a result of expanded distribution and order fulfillment operations at the Albany location; 30 new jobs at Procter & Gamble Albany which produces Bounty
Retention
24
JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2019
and Charmin products servicing the Southeastern United States and Puerto Rico; 25 new jobs through the opening of Pretoria Fields Collective, Southwest Georgia’s first craft brewery and the state of Georgia’s only farmhouse brewing operation; and the redevelopment and expansion of Coats & Clark’s North American Distribution Center, resulting in 300 retained jobs. As these numbers reflect, there’s never been a better time to choose Albany. The ADEDC celebrates the success of its industries through the “#MadeInAlbanyGA” marketing campaign, which highlights area manufacturers and the many world-renowned products produced right here in Albany, Georgia, by people who live in and love the community. The campaign includes both digital and print components, with a feature video on each industry being the center point of the campaign. The campaign saw success in its first phase throughout 20172018, and we look forward to continuing that momentum in a second phase to be released in 2019. December 2017 marked the opening of Pretoria Fields Collective’s craft beer manufacturing operation in downtown Albany, and has proved to be a valuable catalyst in the redevelopment of downtown where we can expect to see more growth in the coming years. In order to support these and other growing industries in Albany, ADEDC works closely on multiple workforce development initiatives, including the Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy and the Industrial Operations Technician program at Albany Technical College. With new businesses showing interest in the community, existing industries making confident reinvestments, new workforce development training opportunities, and quality of life assets on the rise, by all accounts, business is good in AlbanyDougherty County.
Renewal
ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
25
Annual Repor t
2018
SCOTT TOMLINSON
F
2019 Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman & CEO of Flint Community Bank
or Scott Tomlinson, CEO of Flint Community Bank, love for the Albany community and South Georgia are deeply rooted. This native South Georgian began his banking career in 1981 after graduating from then Valdosta State College with a bachelor's degree in business management. Together with his family, they have worked in every facet of the banking industry since living in Albany for the past 24 years. His proven experience in banking led him, along with 14 other business associates and friends, to establish Flint Community Bank, which opened for business in February 2006. Flint Community Bank has enjoyed 12 years of success and now employs more than 40 team members. In addition to his position as Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Board Chair, Scott is also chairman of Albany Community Together and immediate past chairman of the Community Banker’s Association of Georgia. Scott’s passion for the community and his belief that Albany is a great place to live, raise a family and do business is what drives him and his team at Flint Community Bank to work diligently to support and provide resources for a wide variety of community causes. Scott has been married to Patti Tomlinson for 37 years. They have five children and six grandchildren. 26
JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2019
revolutionize
your business.
Imagine an intelligent network that’s designed to evolve at the pace of an ever-changing world. The internet you depend on, but faster. Business internet speed up to 25 times faster. Powering advanced products that will transform the way you do business.
Is your network ready? Ours is. Now.
MediacomBusiness.com
ULTRA-FAST BUSINESS INTERNET
FEATURE-PACKED BUSINESS PHONE
ENGAGING BUSINESS TV & MUSIC
CALL TODAY! 800-479-2091 ©2018 Mediacom Communications Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
27
2019 Board Memb ers CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
E XE C U T I VE CO MMI T T EE
TAMMY MCCRARY IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR ComNet Technical Solutions
PERRY REVELL
ADAM HUTCHINS
CHANDU KUNTAWALA
CHAIR ELECT AB&T
TREASURER Hutchins Clenney Rumsey Huckaby, PC
EDUCATION Booz Allen Hamilton
BRIANNA WILSON
DAN GILLAN
ZAN WALDEN
MATT REED
MEMBERSHIP Southern Point Staffing
MILLITARY AFFAIRS Albany Area YMCA
LEADERSHIP Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany
LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS Georgia CEO
PAMELA GREEN JACKSON
GEOFFERY SUDDERTH
CATHI JONES
SCOTT TOMLINSON CHAIRMAN Flint Community Bank
ALLIES Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany
AT-LARGE Deerfield-Windsor School
AT-LARGE Procter & Gamble
JAY SMITH ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Georgia Power Co.
JAKE REESE AT-LARGE LRA Constructors
B O A R D AT L A RG E BRUCE AUSTIN WALB
BLAKE COOK The Levee Studios
DON GRAY City of Albany
PAM SIMMONS Synovus
JIMMY WILSON Renasant Bank
WALLACE BONNER Moore, Clarke, Duvall, & Rodgers
LINDA DAVIS Holiday Inn
MARVIN LASTER Boys & Girls Club
ALEX WILLSON Sunnyland Farms
JUWAN WILSON MARS
CLIFTON BUSH Albany Area Primary Care
JENNIFER DOZIER Fleming & Riles
JERETHA PETERS Wells Fargo Advisors
FRANK WILSON Albany Civil Rights Institute
ROB COLLINS NEOS Technologies
HEATH FOUNTAIN Colony Bank
ALFREDA SHEPPARD Watson-Spence
JENNIFER WILSON Ameris Bank
28
JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2019
STAY CONNECTED
In print, online or on the go
The Albany Herald keeps you connecTed to what’s happening in your community and around the World. • Latest Breaking News • Sports Coverage • Community & World News • Local Events & Entertainment • Lifestyle Features • Food & Dining
Find us on FACEBOOK
www.facebook.com/albanyherald ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
29
H ONORING
GOV ERNOR DEA L The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce gathered on December 4 at the Albany Hilton Garden Inn for a dinner, presented by Colony Bank, honoring outgoing Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal who has served the state for the past eight years.
"SINCE TAKING OFFICE IN 2011, GOV. NATHAN DEAL HAS LED GEORGIA TO BECOME THE NO. 1 STATE IN THE NATION FOR BUSINESS FOR SIX YEARS IN A ROW - A FIRST IN GEORGIA HISTORY," SAID BÁRBARA RIVERA HOLMES, CHAMBER CEO. During his on-stage remarks, Gov. Deal noted that jobs are up, and unemployment is down both throughout the state and within our community; that funding for the HOPE Scholarship Program has increased; and that prison rates are at an all-time low –indicators of a growing economy. The 82nd governor said he is proud that Georgia has made these accomplishments during his term of service. 30
JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2019
FROM LEFT, CHAMBER CEO BARBARA RIVERA HOLMES, CHAMBER CHAIR TAMMY MCCRARY, FIRST LADY SANDRA DEAL AND GOV. NATHAN DEAL.
To acknowledge the contributions Gov. Nathan Deal and First Lady Sandra Deal have made to education, the Albany Area Chamber has established the Nathan Deal and Sandra Deal Scholarship for students in the Dougherty County School System to attend Albany State University or Albany Technical College. In partnership with the Dougherty County School System, the Chamber established the Sandra Deal Early Childhood Literary Prize, awarded to West Town Elementary School.
THE FIRST LADY PRESENTS THE 2018 SANDRA DEAL EARLY CHILDHOOD LITERACY PRIZE TO WEST TOWN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL. PRINCIPAL STEVEN DUDLEY AND VICE PRINCIPAL NARKISA HOWARD WERE ON HAND TO ACCEPT THE AWARD.
COLONY BANK CEO HEATH FOUNTAIN PRAISED THE ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT OF THE STATE THAT HELPED TO FOSTER THE GROWTH OF THE BANK TO THE 8TH LARGEST INSTITUTION IN THE STATE.
ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
31
CHAMBER HIGHLIGHTS
BU SIN ESS
A FT E R H O U RS
AMBER RENFROE, RODNEY RENFROE AND UMANG PATEL CELEBRATING AND NETWORKING AT BUSINESS AFTER HOURS.
NO V EMBER 1 5
DE CEMBER 13
CHEHAW
A
rea business leaders enjoyed a fun night with Chehaw and Pecan City Pedalers at the November Business After Hours, which featured Chehaw Devo Youth Mountain Bike Trails. Georgia Ledbetter was the lucky winner of the Chamber’s $100 cash prize drawing.
W E L COM E NEW MEMBERS Healthy Place Botanicals 1004 N. Henderson St. Sylvester | 229-272-0593
FLINT EQUIPMENT, FLEMING & RILES AND HUGHEY & NEUMAN
I
t was a fun and festive end to 2018 at the December Business After Hours at Flint Equipment. Alia Senn of Integra Business Alternatives won the $100 cash giveaway. Guests enjoyed delicious food, beverages and giveaways thanks to sponsors Flint Equipment, Fleming & Riles and Hughey & Neuman.
The Mended Hearts National Resource Center
Sugar & Spice Girls Salon Spa Parties
AR AC Roof It Forward
Insurance Claim Recovery Support
1500 Dawson Rd. | Albany 888-HEART99
230 S. Jackson St. | Albany 229-299-0883
Optimum Beauty and Barber
PR A Professional Roof Applicators
Asa Health Solutions
S & S Private Home Care
1125 Dawson Rd | Albany 229-733-2549
1501 U.S. Hwy. 19 S. | Leesburg 229-376-8784
The Albany Dawg House 703 S. Slappey Blvd. Albany | 229-573-7001
32
JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2019
424 W. Roosevelt Ave. | Albany 229-231-3199 1216 Dawson Road, Suite 206-A Albany | 229-573-7477
Quest for Change, Inc
413 W. Broad Ave. | Albany 229-449-6666
1118-D Stuart Ave. | Albany 229-405-2842
412 Hazeltine Drive | Austin, TX 512-904-9900
TR ACS Group
11300 Lakefield Drive Johns Creek, GA | 855-668-7227
Radiolog y Associates of Albany, PGA 810 13th Ave. | Albany 229-883-1579
Vizorre
2224 Palmyra Road | Albany 770-855-1418
PAR T N E R S
I N E XC EL LEN C E The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2018 Partners in Excellence Rise N Shine Breakfast on Wednesday, November 28 at the Hilton Garden Inn Albany. The program featured businesses and organizations that partner with the Dougherty County School System. First Baptist Church of Albany, supporter of Robert H. Harvey Elementary School, was awarded 2018 Partner of the Year.
2 LOCATIONS IN ALBANY ORTHOTIC SERVICESADULTS AND PEDIATRIC • Diabetic Shoes/Inserts • Wrist Braces • AFO’s • Knee Braces • Spinal Supports • Pediatric Bracing • Custom Bracing • Toe Off • WalkAide PROSTHETIC SERVICESUPPER & LOWER EXTREMITIES • Upper Extremity - Arms Below & Above Elbow i-LIMB™ Hand (body powered or myoelectric limbs) • Lower Extremity - Light Weight Legs Below & Above (Microprocessor) - Rheo Knee® • Post Mastectomy Certified Mastectomy Fitter
DR. JOHN I. DAVIS, LEFT, PRINCIPAL OF ROBERT H. HARVEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL WITH BUTCH KNIGHT, SENIOR PASTOR OF FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF ALBANY.
Open 5 Days a Week 24-Hour Emergency Call Free Evaluation
1.855.639.3202 www.limbcareonline.com
ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
33
34
JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2019
ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
35
PELLICANO C O N S T R U C T I O N
ALBANY|ATLANTA|MACON www.pellicanoconstruction.com