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BIZ ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE VOL. 20 / ISSUE 2 President & CEO, Editor Bårbara Rivera Holmes Chair Perry Revell Chair-Elect Matt Reed Printing South Georgia Printing 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 #AlbanyStronger lived out once again through resilience, partnerships, leadership. 07 A Message from the Chamber President Unity, leadership, advocacy, voice support businesses, community. 08 SMART Plan A cost-effective solution to group health insurance for small businesses. 12 4C and MCG Mentorship Alliance Students mentoring students toward a successful healthcare career path. The sky is the limit at Sky High Bounce Party Central, Albany’s new 16,000 sq. ft. indoor bounce house facility filled with inflatable fun! Kids love the giant obstacles and huge slides while parents love the down time! Go see what all the fun’s about at 404 S. Westover Blvd. in Albany.
ON THE COVER: Jeffey Cooley Jr., the Albany Area Chamber's Albany Under 40 Young Professional of the Year, is representative of the talent that thrives in the Albany Area. His professional accomplishments are extensive; he's also earned a Purple Heart medal and the Navy & Marine Corps achievement medal for combat valor distinction ... Read more on page 23.
14 Corporate Health and Wellness Healthy employees a boost to businesses. 23 Albany Under 40 Young Professional of the Year Jeffrey Cooley Jr. has big heart, big accomplishment. 24
110th annual meeting of Albany Area Chamber Celebrating ... an laying out a clear vision, plan for future.
26 Albany-Dougherty Works! The community’s first workforce development plan is set. 30 Highlights Recent Chamber events and highlights. 33 Georgia Quail Hunt Showcasing Georgia as a premier destination for business. 38 Albany-Dougherty Day Local leaders advocate for Albany- Dougherty County at the state capital.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and at AlbanyGA.com.
COM M E N T S
FROM T HE 2 01 9 C HAI RM AN Much of this magazine was in production prior to our local outbreak of COVID-19. I had another column written, which of course is of no relevance today. As I write now, on March 17, 2020, we’re seeing businesses suspend operations, schools close, schedules altered, lives changed, as COVID-19 spreads in our area.
I stand in awe of our medical community, everyday heroes, the “tip of the medical spear” as I heard Dr. Steve Kitchen of Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital say. These professionals love, selflessly serving as they provide expert medical care. Our community loves you, we’re behind you and we are so profoundly grateful for your service. I’m also in awe of the good we see - from the grocery store cashiers to our postal workers to our first responders to citizens helping citizens. There will be challenging days ahead. Businesses are making decisions today which seemed unfathomable a few short weeks ago. I know not what the future holds, and in times like these we barely know what we believe today. What I know is our spirit. What I know is community. What I know is that good rises. We will rise. We are #AlbanyStrong. For 110 years, through recessions, a depression, through storms, good times and times of trouble the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce has stood for businesses. While much is uncertain, what is certain is our Chamber will accelerate leadership and relevant communication. I’m grateful to serve this community alongside you. - PERRY REVELL
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6 MARCH | APRIL 2020
M ES SAGE
F RO M T H E P R ES I DE NT & C EO It seems quite fitting, now, that months in advance of production, we dedicated the March-April issue of Biz to addressing health and wellness. Today, amid the COVID-19 pandemic that has impacted everything from public health to our economy to the education of our students and even how we worship, we are especially grateful to be the recipients of incredible care and expertise from our local medical community, first responders and public health partners.
The COVID-19 situation is dynamic. We are an active member of the AlbanyDougherty COVID-19 Task Force, working with local and state and health officials and elected leaders and assisting our health care systems, first responders and emergency medical personnel in doing their jobs consistently and effectively. We urge all our members to follow the public health directives to flatten the virus' curve and minimize the long-term economic impact. Supporting our business community remains our top priority, and we are fully committed to the health and stability of our community, our members and our economy. I am so encouraged by the outpouring of support our community has shown our medical professionals and our small businesses, many of whom are deeply impacted during this time. We are committed to continuing to provide you with the leadership and the resources − such as our COVID-19 Business Resource Guide on page 11 and our dedicated COVID-19 Resource Center for Employers at albanyga.com. Business as usual? Maybe not. But commerce hasn't ceased, and neither has the Albany Area Chamber. We are working to ensure the health and safety of our Chamber staff; operational continuity for delivery of services and resources to you, our members; and business advocacy and community partnership as together we respond. Follow us at albanyga.com and at Facebook.com/ AlbanyAreaChamber for business resource updates and to learn more about how we're supporting you an how we can support each other. In this issue, we explore work-place health challenges and solutions impacting employees and businesses’ bottom line, including a Chamber-member only comprehensive insurance plan built for small businesses; occupational health and wellness services to support your work force; and the effects of stress − the “world’s silent business killer” − on employee morale and workplace productivity. The times are uncertain; the Albany Area Chamber’s commitment to you is not. -BÁR B AR A R I VER A H OLMES
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SMART PLAN THE ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OFFERS ITS MEMBERS A COST-EFFECTIVE SOLUTION TO GROUP HEALTH INSURANCE
L
IKE MANY BUSINESS MANAGERS, LESLIE MCCLURE DREADED THE END OF THE FISCAL YEAR. NOT BECAUSE OF THE TASK OF RECONCILING FINANCIAL RECORDS, BUT BECAUSE SHE KNEW SHE WOULD HAVE TO SHARE BAD NEWS ABOUT AN IMPORTANT BENEFIT WITH EMPLOYEES. “Over the last 10 years, it’s been the same story when (group medical insurance) comes up for renewal, which is usually at the end of our fiscal year in December,” she said. “I’m having office meetings, saying, ‘I hate to tell you, but our health insurance is going up in the next year 15-20%. And guess what—we’re going to cut your benefits.’” That changed for McClure, office manager for Hughey & Neuman, when the Albany-based real estate firm joined the Georgia Chamber of Commerce’s SMART Plan two years ago. The plan is offered to Albany Area small businesses through their membership in the Albany Area Chamber.
8 MARCH | APRIL 2020
"IT’S A NO-BRAINER," SHE SAID. "IT’S THE BEST THING I’VE HAD IN HEALTH INSURANCE IN THE LAST TEN YEARS." The Georgia Chamber teamed with Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield to administer the plan. It is available to a Georgia business with two to 50 eligible employees if it is a member of the Georgia Chamber or a participating local Chamber. The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce participates, opening the plan to its members. “We’ve had a very good experience with it. It works,” McClure said. “I’m able to offer employees taking advantage of it a better policy for less cost to the company and less out-of-pocket expenses for them.” There’s been an extra benefit for McClure. “It’s a two-year policy, so I’m not having to review it every 12 months, which has been nice,” she said. “I was glad to be able to keep that premium for two years and, for the first time in many years, look at my employees and not have to
give them bad news.” In fact, Hughey & Neuman employees got a nice surprise with the first renewal. “Our rates went down a little bit,” McClure said. Family-owned Sunnyland Farms, which has long provided medical benefits to its employees, also has opted to join the SMART Plan. “We’re pleased with the price,” Sunnyland COO Alex Willson said. “When we looked at different opportunities for our population, they came in most cost-effective for us. In terms of coverage, it was fairly similar with what we had been on previously.” He said the decision on whether to stay with the SMART Plan will depend on whether it is “still the most costeffective” at renewal later this year. Bárbara Rivera Holmes, president and CEO of the Albany Area Chamber, said that having the SMART Plan available to Albany members is important to the health of both local residents and small businesses.
LESLIE MCLURE OF HUGHEY & NEUMAN, WHO JOINED THE CHAMBER'S SMART PLAN TWO YEARS AGO
“Georgia ranks third in the nation for the number of uninsured people. Nationally, the uninsured rate just increased,” Holmes said. “That’s not good for people and that’s not good for business.”
BEING ABLE TO OFFER A COMPETITIVE MEDICAL PLAN TO PROSPECTIVE EMPLOYEES HELPS SMALL BUSINESSES HIRE TALENTED PEOPLE WHO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT MORE THAN THE DOLLAR AMOUNT ON THEIR PAYSTUBS WHEN TAKING A JOB IN A TIGHT LABOR MARKET. “Having this tool for our small businesses and small organizations to have access to provide quality health insurance that’s competitive and affordable is more and more important,” Holmes said. “The talent pool isn’t just looking at salary. They want to know the full benefits. That’s going to continue.” In addition to competitive rates, the SMART Plan offers predictable, fixed monthly payments, flexibility in choice of benefit plans, and access to Anthem’s Open Access POS network and Essential Rx Formulary. The plan is part
SUNNYLAND FARMS COO ALEX WILLSON OPTED FOR SMART PLAN TO OFFER MEDICAL BENEFITS TO EMPLOYEES ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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of Blue Cross’ BlueCard program, which includes more than 96% of hospitals and 97% of physicians in Georgia. Businesses participating in the SMART Plan also are offered discounted rates for specialty products, including dental and vision coverage, life insurance, and optional life and disability coverage. “It’s effective,” Holmes said. “It’s not just a barebones plan where you can say you have insurance. It’s a solid plan.” She said she’s happy the Albany Area Chamber can offer its member businesses and organizations the opportunity to access medical coverage they otherwise could not afford. “It’s a benefit we can provide to our members that’s quantitative,” Holmes said. "It impacts our members' competitiveness and their long-term success."
"IT’S A GREAT PROGRAM. THIS PROGRAM IS A WAY TO PROVIDE ANOTHER BENEFIT TO OUR MEMBERSHIP. WE’RE GLAD TO BE ABLE TO DO IT."
GET
SMART! SIGN YOUR BUSINESS UP FOR HEALTH INSURANCE.
We understand that as a small business, you are looking for ways to offer insurance at a cost savings. That’s why the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield have partnered together to administer the Georgia Chamber SMART Plan. This plan allows employers to join together to share in overall claims risk. By being a part of a larger, self-funded pool, employers have financial protection backed by Anthem. As a participating chamber in the SMART Plan, the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce offers this benefit to its membership. In addition to financial protection, Chamber members will enjoy competitive ratespredictable, fixed monthly payments; flexibility in the choice of benefit plans; and Anthem’s broad Open Access POS network and Rx Formulary. Specialty products, including dental, vision, life, optional life, and disability plans are offered at discounted rates to participating employers.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW YOUR BUSINESS CAN PARTICIPATE IN THE SMART PLAN, CALL THE ALBANY AREA CHAMBER AT 229-434-8700.
10 MARCH | APRIL 2020
COVID-19 ���
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ll �, �-· ·-�bbJ_� _,._ ����,l� The times are uncertain; the Albany Area Chamber's commitment to its member businesses and to community is not.
Shopping locally has a powerful impact on our small businesses, community pride, stability, and our economy. This time of uncertainty is difficult for all, including small businesses and organizations who are impacted immediately and significantly by changes in foot traffic to their sites, utilization of their good or services, and fluctuations in consumer confidence. There are many ways to continue supporting the small businesses that are the backbone of our community, including these: • • • • • • • • •
Utilize delivery services Order takeout; use drive-throughs Purchase gift cards for later use, or gifts Post-schedule services Shop local online Utilize apps for shopping, services Keep subscriptions, memberships Buy now, pickup later Follow us on social media as we give information on our members with the hashtag #SmallBizBigHearts
�YAREA
CHAMBER of COMMERCE
We are working for you and advocating for you during this most difficult and fluid time, and are committed to providing the leadership, unity, stability and voice you've come to expect.
PROTECT YOUR WORK FORCE • Assess teleworking; implement as needed • Limit large group activities & gatherings • Follow CDC-recommended social distancing • Sanitize "high-touch" surfaces regularly • Sick worker? Stays home. • Provide hand soap & encourage regular usage; avoid touching eyes, nose, mouth • Encourage other good health habits • Handle food safely ENSURE BUSINESS CONTINUITY • Make & implement business continuity plan • Communicate regularly with work force • Be prepared to change business practices if needed to maintain critical operations • Identify alternative suppliers • Prioritize customers • Consider digital meetings, e-commerce • Temporarily suspend some operations if needed • Update customers on site sanitation, health practices, changes to business-as-usual
Follow CDC at cdc.gov. Follow Chamber at albanyga.com & on Facebook. ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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4C MENTORSHIP - & - ALLIANCE MCG GEORGIA’S ONLY PUBLIC MEDICAL SCHOOL, THE MEDICAL COLLEGE OF GEORGIA (MCG), HAS PARTNERED WITH THE COMMODORE CONYERS COLLEGE AND CAREER ACADEMY (4C ACADEMY) TO CREATE THE 4C & MCG MENTORSHIP ALLIANCE. A unique mentorship program between 3rd and 4th year MCG medical students and 4C Academy’s 9th and 10th grade healthcare science students, the Mentorship Alliance allows older medical students the opportunity to inspire their younger counterparts on the path to success. Dr Doug Patten, associate dean of MCG's Albany-based Southwest Georgia campus, see this partnership as a catalyst for change in the Albany area. “As the healthcare disparity between rural communities and higher-income areas continues to widen, I encourage students to consider communities like Albany to practice medicine,” Patten explains. Though he does not take credit for the Mentorship Alliance, placing the initiative instead with his students, he confirms the partnership is directly in line with the mission of MCG, and praises the efforts of his team. “Many of our students were inspired when they visited the 4C Academy as part of their tour of the MCG Southwest campus; they were drawn to something special at the 4C.”
12 MARCH | APRIL 2020
A Georgia charter school, the 4C Academy serves students in Dougherty, Terrell, Calhoun and Baker, and is in partnership with the business community, Albany Technical College and Albany State University. The 4C Academy offers 14 career pathways with three focused in healthcare. According to 4C Academy’s Healthcare Science Instructor, Jessica Blanchard, “Many of our students want to be advanced medical providers, but they aren’t sure how they will be able to obtain the education necessary," said 4C Academy Healthcare Science Instructor Jessica Blanchard. Because of limitations at home, some have a difficult time seeing how they can go further and do more than their parents and grandparents.” Shian McLeish and Paula Delgado are fourth-year students at the Medical College of Georgia who are doing their rotations at the MCG's Albany-based Southwest Georgia campus and also mentoring students at 4C. "You don't always feel good because of your background but you are," McLeish tells her mentees. "You hit milestones that confirm you are good enough; you can accomplish your goals.”
Many MCG student mentors have overcome their own adversity; Patten comes them "chain breakers." “Many of these students are the first in their families to attend medical school, or even graduate from college or high school.” "There are also students like Bria Carrithers, a fourth-year student and MD candidate. "I grew up in Albany," she said, "and I want other academically strong students to see that it is possible to stay the course and become a physician for medically underserved people in our hometown." Chris Hatcher, the academy's CEO, praises the efforts of the MCG mentors as the program aligns directly with the mission of the 4C Academy. According to Hatcher, an Albany native and serial entrepreneur turned academy executive. “This mentorship alliance is providing so much value to our students and their preparation − for whatever is next," said Hatcher − and we applaud these MCG students for their willingness to give back.”
ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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CORPORATE
HEALTH & WELLNESS
“Take care of your employees and they’ll take care of your business” – Richard Branson
The connection between healthy employees and a healthy bottom line
Many people spend more than 50% of their waking time at the workplace. Corporate health and wellness programs can help keep a business’s bottom line healthy by keeping employees healthy − cutting down on absenteeism, increasing productivity, and lowering insurance costs. Local employers see the benefits of a healthy workforce and are offering a variety of corporate healthcare options. Since 2013, The City of Albany has partnered with CareHere as a part of their employee wellness program since August 2013. City employees, spouses, and their dependents can utilize the CareHere Wellness Clinic for wellness checks, treatments of illnesses, prescriptions, and their annual Health Risk Assessment, says Dwight Baker, the city’s director of human resources.
Dwight Baker, City of Albany's Director of Human Resources
“The utilization of CareHere has allowed the City of Albany to keep the cost of medical expenses down to help promote low and consistent insurance premiums for the City of Albany and its employees. The City of Albany has worked diligently with our group insurance broker and consultant to competitively market and negotiate our Employee Group Benefits plan annually.” And, Baker said, the program is making a difference.
14 MARCH | APRIL 2020
“With a 93% utilization rate of the CareHere clinic, employees are taking a more proactive role in their health care, allowing serious illnesses to be detected earlier and treatment to be provided sooner. In return, this reduces employee absentees and increases work productivity.” Baker also notes that the city’s benefits program provides support for concerns that go beyond physical check-ups and illnesses. “Stress is probably the No. 1 reason people access their Employee Assistance Program benefits, whether that stress is due to stressors in the employee’s work, family, or personal arenas,” he said. “The City of Albany has partnered with ReachEAP, which is available and accessible to individuals who self-refer to EAP. It is also available to employees who may be mandatorily referred to ReachEAP to provide a resource for the employee to identify their stressors and to learn stress management techniques.” Tracy St. Amant, founder and president of Asa Healthcare Solutions in Albany, also espouses the belief that strong employee support is the key to an engaged, healthy employee. “Employers can offer every health benefit available but if they do not support their employees, they fail them,” she points out. “At Asa, we offer flexible work schedules that allow our employees the opportunity to maximize their work and home life balance. This allows our employees to lead less stressful lives because they are available for their families when needed, while still contributing financially to their homes.”
Tracy St. Amant, founder and president of Asa Healthcare Solutions At Asa, employee recognition is a key component of promoting positive mental health by increasing pride and self-esteem in the workplace. Employees are recognized regularly through the company’s Asa-mazing Program, which is shared on social media platforms and in employee newsletters. St. Amant said that employees at a client facility were recently treated to goodie bags when they were positively recognized by the state during a recent survey. “Our employees work hard for us, and they love it when we recognize them publicly,” St. Amant said. “All of our employees deserve recognition as they do an amazing job taking care of our patients.”
ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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There are situations that require wellness support from beyond the inner office, however. “Listening leaders are wonderful and often have the best intentions, but they are not licensed counselors,” St. Amant said. “We believe in investing in employees and letting the experts lead the way when life becomes too stressful for employees and their families. We are strong advocates for partnering with local mental health support services, such as Aspire, to offer employees Employee Assistance Programs when needed.” Area businesses and industries may also want to check out the wide range of services offered by Phoebe Corporate Health. Staff members work with each client individually to become familiar with that particular business’s operation, job requirements and job descriptions in order to create a plan to promote work force health, prevent injury and facilitate return to work. These services are available to Albany Area Chamber members through a partnership between the business advocacy organization and Phoebe Corporate Health. “We recognize the workforce occupational and wellness needs that exist within the business communities and are
16 MARCH | APRIL 2020
excited to offer services that meet those needs in an accommodating on-site and cost efficient manner,” said Dr. Kevin Smith, medical director for Phoebe Corporate Health. Chamber members receive an automatic discount on core service offerings that include physicals, drug screening, immunizations, tuberculosis testing, biometrics, CPR/ First Aid/BBP certification, workers’ comp, hearing exams, primary care access, financial wellness, acute care, onsite ergonomic assessment, and tele-health. Phoebe Corporate Health also offers on-site workforce wellness event services, as well as a number of outreach and education options. When it comes to corporate health and wellness, the bottom line is that these programs have multiple benefits, both for the employers and the employees. Employees are more engaged and productive, and employers that proactively use corporate health management to address potential issues can create significant competitive advantage. Healthier workplace means that everyone wins.
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ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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ALBANY BUSINESSES HELPING YOU
STAY HEALTHY NATURE’S CURE AND THE JUICE BOX Naturescureonline.com | 229-446-0505 2818 Old Dawson Rd. Suite 5, Albany The best wraps, drinks and supplements – that’s the hallmark of Nature’s Cure and the Juice Box. All food and drinks are prepared from only fresh ingredients. Shop a wide variety of vitamins and supplements to keep your immune system up and keep you looking great! Don’t forget to make an appointment with in-house chiropractor, Dr. Nancy Davis, and take advantage of our infrared sauna and spa services.
GEORGIA CENTER MEDSPA Georgiacentermedspa.com | 229-496-9529 2407 Westgate Dr., Albany Residents of Southwest Georgia who want to look younger and more vibrant turn to Georgia Center MedSpa. Dr. Joshua Groves, board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, consults with every patient to help achieve the look and outcome they desire. Georgia Center MedSpa provides a safe and welcoming environment where patients find the most conservative and innovative approach while maintaining the utmost quality of care available. “Looking good doesn’t have to be about vanity, it’s about feeling good as well. People feel more confident when they put in a little extra effort into their self-care routine. So technically, when you dress yourself up, you dress up your mind too!” - Nicole Miller, RN at Georgia Center Medspa
18 MARCH | APRIL 2020
“Here at Nature's Cure and the Juice Box we strive to provide you with the best, freshest and healthiest drink, wraps and supplements available. Your happiness is our main concern, that's why we carry such a large supply of vitamins and natural supplements as well as a full menu of healthy options to keep you feeling great. Feel free to call in your order and we will have it ready when you get here! Here's to your health!" – Jami Jones, Nature’s Cure and the Juice Box Owner
WILD SIDE RUNNING Wildsiderunning.com | 229-395-5778 2341 Lake Park Dr., Albany Wildside Running seeks to be a reliable destination providing shoes and gear for runners in the Albany community. This family owned business carries running shoes, apparel, nutrition, compression and accessories. Located in quaint Lancaster Village, Wideside Running is surrounded by runner-friendly roads to host group runs, races and test runs. “Being comfortable is key to a good workout. There was nowhere in town to buy good running shoes before 2013. A customer would have to drive 80 miles to the nearest store to find adequate shoes. I opened Wild Side Running because I felt Albany needed to have its own running store.” – Chris Phillips, Wildside Running Owner
ALBANY YOGA PROJECT Albanyyogaproject.org | 229-364-1665 1908 Dawson Road, Albany Connecting the community, one pose at a time. Albany Yoga Project seeks to intentionally meet the needs and increase the wellbeing of at-risk community members by providing yoga classes in schools and other community organizations. With access to the right resources, people can become empowered by their own abilities and gain the confidence to fulfill their potential. “In seeking positive health changes, you must always begin by looking within. Getting present to your habits and behaviors allows you to become clear about what you want to put your attention on- nutrition, fitness, etc. Yoga allows you to get clear by improving your well-being, and as a result, seeking your truth.” - Sylvia Maxwell, Executive Director & Founder of Albany Yoga Project
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CONGRATULATIONS TO JEFFREY COOLEY JR. NAMED ALBANY UNDER 40 YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR BY THE ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AT ITS 110TH ANNUAL MEETING ON JANUARY 23. After joining the United States Marine Corps during the height of conflict in 2003, Cooley enjoyed a lively and highly decorated career. He is a veteran of several combat deployments, with a Certificate of Appreciation from President Barack H. Obama for honorable service to country. While earning the Purple Heart Medal in 2005, Cooley was simultaneously awarded the Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal with Combat Valor distinction for his immediate action taken to preserve the lives of 4 Marines and 1 Navy Corpsman while injured and under attack. After December 2012, Cooley ended his tenure with the Marine Corps and entered the civilian work force. He has served as the Navy Working Capital Fund Accountant and Audit Readiness Liaison; the Director of Managerial Accounting Division, Programs & Resources, and the Command Internal Control Program Manager. From 20172019, he served as the Marine Corps Logistics Command Audit. In September 2019, he began his role as the Audit Remediation Lead for the United States Missile Defense Agency.
A NOTABLE PROFESSIONAL IN THE FIELD OF AUDIT AND COMPLIANCE, COOLEY HOLDS NUMEROUS PROFESSIONAL DISTINCTIONS. He is a published financial literacy author and is the author of a legislative proposal on western hemisphere trade deficit and debt relief. He retains a Utility Patent- Applied Business Method for “Financial Statement Risk Propensity Correlation,” from the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. He holds numerous industry certifications and credentials. He is
22 MARCH | APRIL 2020
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currently an Emory University Law graduate student with a concentration in Business Law and Regulation. Cooley’s memberships and affiliations include service to community through the Military Order of the Purple Heart Association; Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.; Girls Inc. of Albany; Strive 2 Thrive; Albany Cares; Leadership Albany Class of 2016; the National Association of Economic Educators; Emory Law- Jurisprudence Master Society; and the Genocide Intervention Network. In 2019, he was inducted to The National Society of Leadership and Success. The Albany Area Chamber launched Albany Under 40 in 2018 to honor young professionals excelling in their fields who are also finding unique ways to give back to our community and our region. The Albany Under 40 program allows leaders to identify young talent, to support their leadership and to further develop their community engagement.
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2020 ALBANY AREA CHAMBER PERRY REVELL, LEFT, CELEBRATES BEN BARROW, PRESIDENT OF LRA CONSTRUCTORS AND THE CHAMBER'S 2020 LIFETIME SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENT.
THE ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOSTED ITS 110TH ANNUAL MEETING, PRESENTED BY AB&T, ON JANUARY 23, CELEBRATING THE SUCCESSES AND WINS OF 2019 AND SHARING A CLEARLY CHARTED COURSE FOR THE FUTURE OF THE REGION’S LARGEST BUSINESS ADVOCACY ORGANIZATION. The evening’s key themes included the Chamber’s renewed focus on small business development and entrepreneurship; an ongoing focus on existing businesses and economic development; a leading role in talent creation and development, and in military affairs; and an expansion of the organization’s successful local, state and federal legislative advocacy program. “We are, unapologetically, a business partisan organization,” said Albany Area Chamber President and CEO Bárbara Rivera Holmes. “You can expect us to continue to work closely with our governmental partners and our elected officials to ensure your voice is heard and you can expect us to continue our work to enhance job retention and job creation, and to protect, defend and push the pro-business policies that support job-creating entities.”
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Holmes and 2020 Chairman Perry Revell, senior vice president of AB&T who was officially installed during the evening program, said the Chamber’s new strategic plan supports a new vision for success in a new era. “The economic playing field has shifted, again,” Holmes said. “We believe we’re well positioned to tackle these issues and to lead. You should expect us to be aggressive, and that together, we will succeed and thrive in a new economic environment.” During the event, which brought together nearly 400
ALBANY AREA CHAMBER PRESIDENT & CEO BÁRBARA RIVERA HOLMES, LEFT, RECOGNIZES JEFFREY COOLEY JR. AS THE AU40 YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR.
AB&T, WHOSE EXECUTIVES, TEAM MEMBERS AND BOARD MEMBERS ATTENDED THE EVENT.
business and community leaders, the Chamber recognized Scott Tomlinson, CEO of Flint Community Bank, for his leadership as 2019 chairman, and presented Ben Barrow, president of LRA Constructors, Inc., with its prestigious 2020 Lifetime Service Award. Jeffrey Cooley Jr. of the U.S Defense Missile Agency and of Marine Corps Logistics Command before that was named
the Albany Area Chamber's Albany Under 40 Young Professional of the Year. The 110th annual meeting was sponsored by AB&T, Albany Technical College, Draffin Tucker, Georgia Power, MillerCoors (now MolsonCoors), Albany Area Primary Health Care, the Albany State University Foundation and Mitchell EMC.
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ALBANY-DOUGHERTY
WOR K S!
Pipeline Development, and Continued Adult Preparation. Select members of the Albany-Dougherty County Works! steering committee was assigned leadership of each priority and will work with volunteer leaders to meet their short term and long term strategies.
The availability of a skilled workforce is a crucial ingredient for attracting new jobs, supporting existing businesses, and strengthening the community. To that end, the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce and the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission partnered with the Carl Vinson Institute of Government at the University of Georgia to create the community’s first comprehensive workforce development strategy. Business, education, government, and community leaders assembled to spearhead this effort to understand AlbanyDougherty County’s workforce development needs, identify assets, set priorities for future investments and initiatives, and ultimately develop a shared vision for workforce development in the community called Albany-Dougherty County Works! The program, launched on February 18 during a gathering of local business and community leaders, focuses on three priorities: Community Connection and Coordination, Youth
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“Successful implementation of this plan will involve sustained momentum by numerous partners over the next several years,” said Bárbara Rivera Holmes, president and CEO of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce. “We look forward to working with area leaders to strengthen our workforce development efforts and increase opportunity in our community.” To learn more about Albany-Dougherty County Works! and how you can participate, visit albanyga.com or call 229-434-8700.
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28 MARCH | APRIL 2020
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CHAMBER HIGHLIGHTS
BU SIN ESS
A FT E R H O U RS
FROM LEFT: ANNE SORIANO, SHERRER HESTER, MICHELLE WEAVER-LARUE AND FELIX PAYUMO
FROM LEFT, BÁRBARA RIVERA HOLMES, JOSH OLIVER AND DONNA GRAY
JAN UARY 1 4
FE BRU ARY 19
FLINT RIVER HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
SUNBELT FORD-LINCOLN OF ALBANY
B
usiness and community leaders gathered on January 14 for the first Business After Hours of 2020. Sponsored by Flint River Habitat for Humanity, CTSI, Stanley Steemer and Newks Eatery, those in attendance enjoyed an evening of delicious food, drinks and networking with members of the Albany Area Chamber.
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T
he Albany Area Chamber of Commerce was revved up for Business After Hours at Sunbelt Ford-Lincoln of Albany, sponsors of the February 18 event. It was a night filled with food and giveaways from the Sunbelt team. Congratulations to Josh Oliver of Cintas, winner of the Albany Area Chamber’s $100 cash prize drawing!
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W E L COM E NEW MEMBERS A Better Way Grocers 431 Jeffries Ave. Albany | 229-343-0445 abetterwaygrocers.com Compassion Comfort & Care 1901 Palmyra Road | Albany 229-573-7443 | ccandcare.com Dougherty Realtors 230 S. Jackson St., Suite 210 Albany | 229-883-2223 Realtorsdr.com Flint River Fresh 125 Pine Ave, Suite 150 Albany | Flintriverfresh.org 229-212-6022 GEC P.O. Box 72174 | Albany 229-888-0878 John Thompson Construction 230 S. Jackson St., Suite 246 Albany | 229-573-7300 Krystal of North Slappey 1605 N. Slappey Blvd. Albany | 229-439-2657 krystal.com Krystal of West Oglethorpe 713 W. Oglethorpe Blvd. Albany | 229-436-4317 krystal.com Krystal of Dawson Road 2621 Dawson Road | Albany 229-446-6512 | krystal.com M&S Managed Care 1512 Gillionville Road, Suite 5-C Albany | 229-446-4894 Partners Empowering Partners 2631 Crofton Drive Albany | 229-299-5991 carriejohnsonphd.com
Powersports Plus 3006 Kensington Court Albany | 229-432-2025 powersportsplus.com Sky High Bounce Party Central 404 S. Westover Blvd. Albany | 229-496-2393 skyhighbouncepartycentral.com Sonny’s BBQ 1900 N. Slappey Blvd. Albany | 229-883-7427 Stonebridge Golf & Country Club 319 Osprey Ridge Court Albany | 229-889-0312 stonebridgegcc.com Twisted Timber Axe Throwing 2302 N. Slappey Blvd. Albany | 229-573-7489
NOT A MEMBER? Explore the benefits of what joining the Chamber can offer to your business. Visit us online at albanyga.com/benefits/ or call 229-434-8700. Questions? Email us about member benefits at mbickerstaff@albanyga.com.
LBANY ELEVATOR SERVICE 1432 US Hwy 19 South 229.436.7131 AlbanyElevator.com
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32 MARCH | APRIL 2020
GEORGIA QUAIL HUNT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KALIA BRUNER PHOTOGRAPHY
THE GEORGIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOSTED ITS 32ND ANNUAL GEORGIA QUAIL HUNT IN ALBANY DURING THE WEEK OF FEBRUARY 6. The event gathered 31 business leaders representing state recruitment and expansion prospects with local, state and economic development officials to learn about the benefits of doing business in Georgia. The hunt, sponsored by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, the Georgia Allies, the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission and Locate South Georgia, provides an opportunity for relationship development among statewide leaders and guests whose companies or clients are looking to locate to or expand in Georgia. Since 1994 alone, guests of the Georgia Quail Hunt have invested more than $2.5 billion and created more than 8,500 jobs in the state as a result of corporate locations or expansions. Industry locations in Albany-Dougherty County such as Coats and Clark, Outdoor Network Distribution, PowerSports Plus and WebstaurantStore are sited as local projects facilitated through the hunt. ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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"GEORGIA HAS ESTABLISHED ITSELF AS THE NATION’S TOP STATE FOR BUSINESS, AND THIS EVENT ALLOWS US THE OPPORTUNITY TO SHOWCASE GEORGIA’S PEOPLE AND BUSINESS FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT," SAID 2020 GEORGIA QUAIL HUNT CHAIRMAN DARYL INGRAM, CHIEF EXTERNAL OFFICER AND SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF ELECTRIC CITIES OF GEORGIA. “Economic success, in large part, is due to collaboration between public and private entities coming together to create opportunities for businesses to thrive, and therefore creating thriving communities along with them. This event is a perfect example of the collaborative atmosphere businesses can expect when they choose to locate or expand in Georgia.” Event organizers say the hunt has been successful in recruiting businesses to the state.
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"FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS, THE GEORGIA QUAIL HUNT HAS HELPED FACILITATE THE CREATION OF THOUSANDS OF JOBS AND TENS OF BILLIONS IN INVESTMENT IN GEORGIA’S ECONOMY," SAID CHRIS CLARK, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE GEORGIA CHAMBER. “Hosting the event in Albany provides an incredible opportunity to showcase Southwest Georgia as a premier destination for business, giving guests a first-hand look at the region’s high quality of life and exposing them to local and state leaders who are eager to help them take their business to the next level.”
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36 MARCH | APRIL 2020
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A lba n y - D ougher t y Day
LED BY THE ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, the
Albany-Dougherty County leadership delegation gathered on February 12 at the Georgia State Capitol to visit with state leaders and legislators, discussing needs and goals of Albany and Southwest Georgia though our legislative agenda which includes funding for special projects at Albany Technical College, Albany State University and the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy; advocating for pro-business policies and incentives; support for quality of life projects; transportation infrastructure investment; strengthening military communities and improving rural healthcare.
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"IT IS IMPORTANT TO KEEP THE NEEDS AND PRIORITIES OF ALBANY-DOUGHERTY COUNTY TOP OF MIND WITH OUR STATE LEADERS IN ATLANTA. This facilitates opportunities and increases awareness about our regional assets,” said Bárbara Rivera Holmes, president and CEO of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce. THE CHAMBER THANKS SENATOR FREDDIE POWELL SIMS, REPRESENTATIVES GERALD GREENE, WINFRED DUKES, CAMIA HOPSON AND BILL YEARTA FOR THEIR PARTNERSHIP IN THIS EVENT AND FOR SO WELL REPRESENTING ALBANY-DOUGHERTY COUNTY. The Chamber's Legislative Affairs Committee is chaired by Jake Reese, vice president of LRA Constructors. To get involved, call the Chamber at 229.434.8700.
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A special thank you to our sponsors: LRA Constructors, Phoebe Putney Health System, Albany Technical College, Albany State University, Dougherty County School System, The City of Albany, Dougherty County, Georgia, Visit Albany, GA, Georgia Power, Georgia CEO, Horizons Community Solutions, AT&T and AB&T.
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Because Local Matters™