january february 2015 business magazine

Tommy Clark, 2015 Chairman of the Board

2014 Annual Report Issue

January/February 2015

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January/February 2015 | BUSINESS4 www.AlbanyGa.com

BUSINESSAlbany Area Chamber

of Commerce Magazine

President/CEOEditor

Chris Hardy, IOM, CCE

ChairTommy Clark

Chair-ElectEd Newsome

Director of CommunicationsRachelle Bitterman

PrintingColson Printing

PhotographyTodd Stone

Rachelle Bitterman

Director of SalesDonna Gray

Business (U.S.P.S. 886-680) is published bi-monthly by the Albany Area Chamber ofCommerce, 225 W. Broad Avenue, Albany,Georgia 31701. Subscription rate of $50 isincluded in membership investment. Periodicalspostage paid at Albany, Georgia.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:Business Magazine, 225 W. Broad Avenue,Albany, Georgia, 31701. For more informationabout this publication or advertising rates, call(229) 434-8700. This publication is produced bythe Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.Reproduction in whole or part of thispublication without expressed written consentof the publisher is prohibited. All claims,materials, and photos furnished or used are, tothe publisher’s knowledge, true and correct.Hence liability cannot be assumed by thepublisher for errors or by the publisher forerrors or omissions. Advertisements and editorialinformation published in this publication issubject to the unrestricted right to edit of, andby, our editor/publisher.

U.S. Postal Service Statement of Ownership,Management and Circulation

Date of Filing: 9/29/08

Business (U.S.P.S. 886-680) is published bi-monthly by the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, 225 W. Broad

Avenue, Albany Georgia 31707. Subscriptionrate of $50 is included in membership investment.

Periodicals postage paid at Albany, Georgia.

Owner/Publisher: Albany Chamber of Commerce225 W. Broad Avenue, Albany, Georgia 31701

#MADE IN ALBANY, GA

www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS

CO

NTENTS

ABOUT THE COVERTommy Clark took the gavel at theChamber’s Annual Meeting to become the2015 Chairman of the Board. To see whatTommy has planned for 2015 please read hismesssage on page 6.

Photography by Todd StoneDesign by Rachelle Bitterman

JA N uA Ry/ F E B R uA Ry 2 0 1 5 VO lu M E 1 4 N u M B E R 1

5January/February 2015

THE BRANDS YOU WANT AT THE PRICE YOU LIKE FORM THE PEOPLE YOU TRUST

146 North Slappey Blvd.229.432.9338

08 1210Albany AreaChamber of

Commerce 2014Annual Report

2015 New BoardMembers

2015 ExecutiveCommittee and

Board of Directors

14

1816

AlbanyConvention &Visitors Bureau2014 Annual

Report

Chehaw &BreakAway

Cycles PartnerFor A FansticBusinessAfter

Hours

NeighboringBusinesses TeamUp For A GreatBusiness After

Hours

20 2422Star Business of

the WeekRibbon CuttingsAlbany Area

Chamber 2015LegislativeAgenda

26

3230

Welcome OurNew Members

Message From the

President/CEO

Thank YouRenewingMembers

34Albany SurgicalBreaks Groundon New Facility

w w w. a l b a n y g a . c o m

06Comments fromthe 2015 Chair of the Board

36

11

Strive2Thrive 2014 Annual

Report

Mark YourCalendar

38Strive2ThriveRise N Shine

It is truly an honor to serve as your 2015 Chamber Chairman. I want to thank JimDeal for his leadership this past year and his continued involvement in ourcommunity. Jim did an amazing job. He built a great foundation and I plan to keepthe momentum going.

Giving back to this extraordinary community and service above self is at the coreof what drives me as a person. I am a firm believer in the old saying, “Many handsmake light work.” As Chamber members, we have a vested interest in making ourChamber more dynamic and our community more vibrant. At the annual dinner, Iasked everyone the question, “What is your value without involvement?” Iencourage you to think about what that means. Then, let’s all try our best to make adifference in this organization and in our community. Together, there are manygreat things we can accomplish this year and into the future!

In addition to our outstanding membership, the Chamber staff, led by ChrisHardy, works tirelessly to improve the business community in Albany and thesurrounding area. They don’t get a lot of recognition for their effort, so a hugethanks to all of them. The board members and executive team is a dynamic mix of

experience and youth. This is a significant advantage as we benefit from the energy and fresh ideas of theyounger leaders as well as the wisdom and expertise of our veteran members. One key to any organization intoday’s world is staying relevant and I believe our board as well as our programs are meeting that need.

Some of the highlights of this past year include kicking off our first ever Institute of Leadership Developmentclass. We had thirteen exceptional participants who will graduate this May and become tomorrow’s communityleaders. The Small Business Resource Committee kicked off a “Think Local” campaign recently, which hasbolstered awareness and encouraged support of Albany’s businesses. The Education Division has brought all ofthe local education partners together in collaboration to make education a priority for our school systems andhigher education partners. Lastly, the Chamber’s Legislative Affairs Division has established roads to our leadersin Atlanta and Washington providing Albany a voice in what impacts our region.

This year, we will develop a new, three-year strategic plan for the Albany Area Chamber. This is ouropportunity to design and implement a strategy that will direct our efforts for the next few years and ensure weare aware of the conditions affecting our community as well as factors that drive our economy.

I firmly believe that 2015 will be a great year and I ask you to get involved. The opportunity is there; it is upto each of us to leave our mark on our home community!

COMMENTS FROM THE2015 CHAIRMAN

Tommy ClarkHeritageBank of the South


www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS 7January/February 2015

•Held two Salty Sandbagger MarineBase/Business Community Golf Tournaments

•Collected hundreds of items to be given tonew doctors entering Phoebe Putney MemorialHospital’s Residency program.

• Awarded Small Business of the Year toStewbo’s during the Celebrate Small BusinessGala.

• Hosted annual Military Affairs ChristmasSocial.

• Organized the Star Student Star Teacherhonor luncheon.

• Held five Rise N Shine breakfasts.

• Held nine Business after Hours.

• Volunteer Ambassadors participated in 43ribbon cuttings and one groundbreakingceremony.

• Held 104th Annual Meeting featuring adynamic keynote speaker while recognizingour retiring Board members and honoring theLifetime Service Award, Ambassador of theYear and Non-Profit of the Year.

• Hosted five Lunch and Learns.

• Partnered with the SBDC to presentMaximum Contact Series Lunch and Learn - a5-week program that gave participants a closerlook at how to grow their business usingonline marketing tools.

• Provided representation at the GA Chamberof Commerce’s Annual Dinner and Eggs &

Issues Breakfast with Chamber and localbusiness leaders.

• Provided leadership and participation on theAlbany-Dougherty County EconomicDevelopment Commissions Recruitment,Retention and Renewal Task Forces.

• Recognized and celebrated 46 membersthrough the Star Business of the Weekprogram.

• Grew Chamber Facebook page from 1,200fans to more than 2,000.

• Posted hundreds of member press releasesto the Chamber website, www.albanyga.com,and featured the releases as links in theweekly e-newsletter.

•Appeared weekly for Chamber Chat withWFXL Fox-31 providing updates on Chamber,CVB and community programs and events.

• Continued the support for the EconomicDevelopment Commission through fundraisingfor Operations and Marketing for ourcommunity.

• Held Albany day in Atlanta featuring localbusiness leaders and state delegation.

• Organized the Washington Fly-In with localbusiness leaders and government officials toadvocate on behalf of the community and arearesources.

• Hosted Business Expo entitled “Lets GrowTogether” with hundreds of attendees andmore than 50 businesses showcasing their

Albany Area Chamber of Com2014 Annual Report

Celebrate Small Business State of the Community Lunch


merce Emerging leadersIn August of 2014, after a year ofplanning, the Chamber of Commercelaunched a new leadership initiativeentitled Institute for leadershipDevelopment. Since the orientation, wehave held programs containing topicsthat have included attendance at relatedChamber programs and events that havebeen very successful. The topics coveredso far have been Political Savvy, EffectiveNetworking, leadercast viewing withdiscussion and a Fireside Chat at MajorGeneral John J. Broadmeadow’s home atMarine Corps logistics Base Albany at theend of the year. Most recently we held ourImage and Media program which waspaired with the Chamber’s 105th AnnualMeeting.

Our presenters for the Image and theMedia program included Karla HeathSands of WAlB who helped theparticipants understand how important it

is to always be prepared in case themedia comes calling. The remainder ofthe 2014-2015 class programs will includetopics such as Financial understanding,Strategic Visioning, Influence andNegotiation and more. We could not haveasked for a better start to our newprogram and we look forward to ourupcoming 2015-2016 class. Applicationsare now being accepted for next year’sprogram. you may download theapplication from our website atwww.albanyga.com or email Chris Hardyat [email protected] to receive yourstoday.

products and services.

• Held a raffle during the Small Business AppreciationGala where $1,000 was given to the winning ticketholder and a portion of the proceeds were given tothe Junior League of Albany, the Chamber’s 2014 Non-Profit of the Year.

• Formulated the 2015 Legislative Agenda advocatingon issues effecting Albany/Dougherty County.

• Surveyed guests at the 2014 Business Expo askingpertinent questions concerning their thoughts on whatshopping local means. Also surveyed businessesasking what they would like to see in a shop localprogram and how it can help the efforts of theChamber to enhance the business climate inAlbany/Dougherty County.

• Hosted 40 under 40 Luncheon in conjunction withthe Albany Herald. Honorees are selected by a panelfor recognition of their exemplary accomplishments.

New in 2014

• Added two new staff members to the Chamber andCVB staff.

• Hosted the State of the Community Luncheon givinglocal leaders the opportunity to toutAlbany/Dougherty County accomplishments tohundreds of business attendees.

• Hosted the GACCE Regional Road Show for southGeorgia with 13 chamber executives in attendance.

• Implemented a new gift card program featuring acommunity gift card. This program also givesmembers the opportunity to have their own gift cardat no cost to their business.

h & Learn Business Expo


Tommy ClarkChairman

HeritageBank of the South

Vicki Barnhill, Mazur & HockmanBritt Bazemore, KingsMark Private Financial Advisor

Tom Berry, City ManagerKen Boler, Albany Herald Publishing Co. MGen. John Broadmeadow, Marine CorpsLogistics Command

Jessica Castle, Phoebe Putney Health SystemChris Cohilas, Chairman Dougherty CountyTim Cross, Lion Vallen IndustriesRichard Crowdis, Dougherty County AdministratorCol. Don Davis, MCLB Albany

Dr. Arthur Dunning, Albany State UniversityDebbie Finney, SBDCSandy Gregors, StewbosMary Beth Hobby, MADLab MarketingMark Holloway, Modern Gas CompanyDorothy Hubbard, Mayor, City of AlbanyLeslie Hudson, MillerCoorsDr. Paul Jones, Darton State CollegeChandu Kuntawala, Booz Allen HamiltonMichael Madden, Marine Corps LogisticsCommand

Joey Magaddino, SB&T

Cal McMillan, Ameris BankChris Misamore, SunTrust Bank, South GeorgiaDr. David Mosely, Superintendent of DCSSDr. Anthony Parker, Albany Technical CollegeKirt Phillips, Merrill LynchMatt Rushton, AB&T National BankGary Sanders, Albany Baptist Minister’s Conferernce

Jay Sharpe, U-Save It PharmacyShirley Sherrod, ResoraScott Tomlinson, Flint Community BankWerhner Washington, Procter & Gamble

Ed NewsomChairman-Elect

Albany Air Conditioning &Heating Company

Timothy CrossVice Chair EducationLion Vallen Industries

Jim DealPast Chairman

Albany Communications

Bobby McKinneyVice Chair

Tourism Division

Tammy McCraryVice Chair

Membership Division ComNet Technical Solutions

Jenny SevilleVice Chair

Small Business Resource DivisionBishop Clean Care

Bridges SinyardVice Chair

Leadership DevelopmentAdams Exterminators

Jay SmithVice Chair

Economic DevelopmentGeorgia Power

Pamela JacksonVice Chair

Allies Division MCLB Albany

2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Cynthia GeorgeVice Chair

Legislative AffairsDarton State College

2015 Executive CommitteeAlbany Area Chamber of Commerce

Calley Hughey-WalkerHughey & Neuman, Inc.

Mike HarrisMcDonald’s Restaurants

Jeff WrightDraffin & Tucker CPAs


MARK YOURCALENDAR

March 10BUSINESS AFTER

HOURSAdvent Business Interiors

5:00pm-7:00pmSponsored by

Advent Business Interiors

April 15INDUSTRYCELEBRATION RISE N SHINEBREAKFAST

Hilton Garden Inn7:30am

Networking & Coffee8:00am

Breakfast & ProgramSponsored by

Albany-DoughertyEconomic Development

Commission

April 16INDUSTRYCELEBRATION BUSINESS AFTER

HOURSDoublegate Country Club

5:00pm-7:00pmSponsored by

Albany-DoughertyEconomic Development

Commission

ThinkAlway Albany First

hinkTy Alban

hinkaAlw ty Firsy Alban


PROUDLY INTRODUCING...

Jessica Castle is Vice President ofMarketing at Phoebe Putney HealthSystem. Prior to joining Phoebe in 2013,she served as the senior director ofmarketing for Piedmont Healthcare inAtlanta, where she engineered andmanaged a system-wide brandtransformation. She is a member of theAmerican Marketing Association and is apast president and board member of the

Georgia Society of Healthcare Marketing and PR. Jessica andher husband, Craig, have four children.

Mary Beth Hobby was born and raised inAshburn, Georgia. Mary Beth is the co-Founder of MADlab Marketing, acompany specializing in marketingstrategies and creative development forsmall to mid-size companies. Prior tobecoming a small business owner, MaryBeth served as the Vice President andDirector of Marketing for HeritageBank ofthe South. She is a graduate of the

University of Georgia’s Grady School of Journalism. MaryBeth’s commitment to her community extends to her volunteerexperience and shows through her service on many boards.

Joey Magaddino has more than 15 yearsof banking experience includingcommercial loan portfolio management.Joey joined SB&T, a division of SynovusBank, in January 2014 as Vice Presidentof their Commercial Banking Team. He isa native of Albany and graduated fromAlbany High School. He received a BBA inMarketing from The University of Georgiaand also completed the Graduate School

of Banking at LSU. Joey has served numerous community andprofessional organizations and was named to the 2012 AlbanyHerald 40 Under 40 of SWGA.

Tim Cross is a native of Adel, GA. Heholds a Bachelor of Science degree inCriminal Justice with a minor in PublicAdministration and a Master Degree inboth Public Administration and Businessand Organization Security Management.He served as a sworn Deputy Sheriff inFayetteville North Carolina aftergraduating from the North Carolina PoliceAcademy. He served in the Army for 26

years and participated in combat operations in Iraq. Currentlyhe holds the position as Operations & Compliance Managerwith Lion Vallen Industries.

Sandy Gregors was born and raised inHouston, Texas. Sandy moved to Albany,GA in 1985 with a hotel managementcompany. She is the Director of Sales atMerry Acres Inn & Event Center which isthe centerpiece of Stewbos, winner of theChamber’s 2014 Small Business of theYear. Sandy is married to Tommy Gregorsand has 3 sons, Trey, Matt and Alex.Sandy’s commitment to community

service includes: AACoC Small Business Committee, HistoricPreservation Commission and Albany Convention and VisitorsBureau Advisory Committee.

Debbie Finney brings 28 years of workexperience in the private sector to theSmall Business Development Centerwhere she now consults with Georgiabusinesses in the areas of marketingstrategies, branding, social mediamarketing, digital marketing strategies,strategic planning and businessmanagement. She has instructedbusiness owners throughout the state onmarketing and digital marketing strategy

and has presented her program, “Branding – Smart Move forSmall Business” nationally. She holds an MBA, University ofGeorgia and a BBA, Emory University.

Our New Board Members for 2015Britt Bazemore is a Financial Advisor withKingsMark Private Financial Advisors inAlbany and has been in the financialservices industry for 12 years. Britt has aBBA in Finance and BBA degree inAccounting. He holds the CERTIFIEDFINACIAL PLANNER™ designation, andis a licensed Certified Public Accountantwith the State of Georgia. Britt is activelyengaged in his local community through

various civic clubs, professional groups, and charityorganizations. Britt and his wife, Kelly, have two young girlsMary Ellis (4) and Carlisle Ruth (2).

Chris Misamore is a CommercialBusiness Banking Relationship Managerwith SunTrust Banks, Inc. He has beenwith SunTrust Banks, Inc. for five years,and held positions in Sales andMarketing, Executive Management, andCommercial Lending. He and his wife,Brirgit, have three children. They areactive in sports, travel, horseback riding,and are members of Leesburg United

Methodist Church. Chris is a member of the Albany RotaryClub, as well as a tutor/mentor for the Whiz Kids TutorialProgram in Albany.


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Shirley Sherrodserves as theExecutive Director ofthe SouthwestGeorgia Project ForCommunityEducation, Inc., agrassrootsorganization. She alsoworks with New

Communities at Cypress Pond. Shirley hasserved as USDA Georgia State Director ofRural Development and currently serves onthe boards of Africare, Rural AdvancementFoundation International, RuralDevelopment Leadership Network. She is agraduate of Albany State University with adegree in Sociology and she has aMaster's degree in CommunityDevelopment from Antioch University.

• The Albany CVB hosted6 travel writers onindividual trips and another7 as part of a state tour.The writers varied infocuses from science tooutdoor or family travel.This exposure has led toAlbany features inprestigious publicationssuch as the Boston Herald,Chicago Tribune, etc.

• In January the Albany CVB hosted the AmericanKennel Club Southern Heritage Hunt & Show. The2nd annual event had 75 hunters and 30 show dogs.

• In February the Albany CVB hosted their annualFamily Reunion workshop with Jeff Mills presenting“How to plan a family reunon from A to Z.”

• In October, the Albany CVB assisted with theprepping for the short film, Across the Tracks, shot inthe Albany area. The short film, produced and directedby a New York based crew, is currently in the editingstages and hopes to make an appearance in severalfilm festivals.

• The Albany CVB partnered with the DowntownManager’s office and Chehaw to kick off RiverfrontLunchbox Fridays, a weekly public picnic lunchfeaturing games and live music throughout October.

• The Albany Marathon and Half Marathon hadanother successful race March 1, 2014. Celebratingits 8th year, Albany welcomed runners from 40different states, Austria, Canada, United Kingdom andVenezuela. For the second consecutive year, themarathon is among the top ten qualifiers for theBoston Marathon. Albany Marathon, Inc. was able togive back to two community partners, ThronateeskaHeritage Center ($5,000) and Willson Hospice House($20,000).

• The Albany Unchained Bike Race was part of theSoutheast Regional Series for the second year withcyclists racing on May 17th and 18th. The weekend ofraces saw record numbers in registrations. Planningfor 2015 is already underway.

2014 Annual ReportALBANY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

• The Albany CVB partnered with the state tourismoffice on an advertising co-op with the Atlanta Braves.This partnership allowed Albany to be featured duringan inning in six different games. It also included abrick paver booth before the Labor Day game on apromotion night. Over 32,000 fans were exposedand/or given an Albany souvenir.

• The Albany CVB coordinated with Albany StateUniversity to organize several events duringHomecoming week. It was the first year that theUniversity, students and city combined for aHomecoming Kickoff Celebration at Veteran’sAmphitheater. The Albany CVB and ASU alsopartnered on a tailgate themed Business After Hoursat the ASU football stadium.

• Albany CVB assisted and hosted Craig MillerProductions in November. The film crew shot footageat Wynfield Plantation and of the Freedom Singers fora video that will be shown in the Hartsfield-JacksonInternational Airport Welcome Center in Atlanta.

• In December,the Albany CVBhosted andassisted with thePBS filming ofthe show MusicVoyager. Half ofa thirty minuteepisode will bededicated toAlbany’s musicalheritagefeaturing Mt.Zion BaptistChurch, theFreedomSingers andmany Albanylandmarks. This will be shown internationally. The CVBwill receive and be able to reuse the B-roll acquired forfuture videos, commercials, and more.


Neighboring Businesses Team Up For A Great Business After HoursWhen neighboring businesses get together itbecomes a party and that’s just what happenedwhen Central Monitoring teamed up withTheatre Albany. Central Monitoring wanted toshowcase their new demo room but neededmore space for members to enjoy networkingand Theatre Albany had the space. So it was anideal match. Everyone enjoyed walking betweenthe two entities, conversing with old friends andmaking new connections. Thank you toAustin’s Firegrill and Baja’s for the deliciousfood! Central Monitoring and Theatre Albanyheld drawings for great door prizes. DouglasDivine with Divine Finney, PC was the luckywinner of the $100 drawing.

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Chehaw & BreakAway Cycles Partnered Once Again For A Fantastic Business After Hours

For more than three years,Chehaw and BreakAwayCycles have partnered tosponsor the NovemberBusiness After Hours. Eachyear this BAH has grown inattendance because theword is out that this is agreat event. More than 100people filled the educationcenter to network andenjoy the fabulous foodprepared by Chehaw’scatering department. Asusual BreakAway Cycleshad a great display of theirbicycles and were morethan willing to work withanyone interested inpurchasing a bike for thatspecial someone for theholidays. Michael Stranbergwith Battelle was the luckywinner of the $100drawing.


CHEHAW105 Chehaw Park Road | 229.430.5275

www.chehaw.org

Contact: Doug Porter

THE DANCE COMPANY,2418 Dawson Road, Suite 3 | 229.435.2377

www.dancecompanyalbany.com

Contact: Lani Milling

MARK'S MELON PATCH8580 Albany Hwy., Dawson, GA | 229.698.4750

www.marksmelonpatch.com

Contact: Mark Daniel

Thank you to our additional sponsors ...

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The Star Business of the Week initiative is an exciting "random draw" p

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LEEDURHAM, LLC1604 West Third Ave. | 229.431.3036

leedurham.com

Contact: Lauren Mock

F&F INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY423 West Broad229.432.7477

Contact: Debbie Pollock

SHORT & PAULK SUPPLY COMPANY400 N. Cleveland St. | 229.431.1076

www.shortpaulk.com

Contact: Jay Short

HONEYBAKED HAM621-C North Westover Blvd. | 229.436.4267

www.honeybakedham.com

Contact: Bob Newsome

rogram for our 1000+ regional member businesses in good standing.

the Week


January/February 2015 | BUSINESS22

Albany Area Chamber2015 Legislative AgendaBelieving that Albany – Dougherty County isvital to the economic well being of SouthwestGeorgia and is empowered with advocating fora strong quality of life while protecting itseconomic competitiveness, the Chamber willpromote outcomes on the following issues:

Economic and Workforce DevelopmentSupports consolidation and relocation of elements/unitsof the Georgia National Guard to Marine Corps LogisticsBase Albany which would result in the enhancement ofGAANG daily operations while providing greaterresiliency to the base and surrounding area.

Supports state funding for the completion of theNorthwest Library renovations in Dougherty County.

EducationSupports full funding for the construction of the AlbanyState University Multi-Purpose Academic Building, which

would provide specializedneeds, additionalclassrooms and teachinglabs to facilitate English,Modern Language, Artand Music programs.

Supports full fundingfor Phase II of theCarlton ConstructionAcademy at AlbanyTechnical Collegewhich will provide

additional classroomsand program labs for multiple

instructional programs.

Supports funding for the completion of the studentcenter on the campus of Darton State College, whichwould accommodate student government and clubs,servant leadership programs, student enrollment center,testing center complex and other vital departments andprogram based offices.

Supports current Common Core system standard.

Supports the reduction of austerity cuts to PublicEducation

ContactChris Hardy, President & CEO225 West Broad Avenue • Albany, Georgia [email protected]

CENTRAL MONITORINGContact: Judy Randle

522 Pine Ave. | (229) 431-0800www.central911.com

THE STAFFING PEOPLEContact: Tim Holley

1118-D Stuart Ave. | (229) 434-1182thestaffingpeople.net

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CYCLE WORLD BIKE SHOPContact: Terrell Hoffman

2401 Dawson Rd. | (229) 435-1678www.cycleworldbikeshop.com

IN THE LIGHT, LLCContact: Cynthia Hinderliterr

2925 Ledo Rd., Suite 25(229) 347-7028

If your business has moved or expanded and you would like to have a Ribbon Cutting orGroundbreaking contact Mary Bickerstaff at 317.7183 or [email protected].

in elevator sales

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1432 US Highway 19 South229-436-7131 | Fax 229-436-1188

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THRONATEESKA HERITAGE CENTER Contact: Tommy Gregors

100 W. Roosevelt Ave. | (229) 432-6955www.heritagecenter.org

RIVERFRONT REDENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT

Contact: Demetrius Love105 West Broad Ave. | (229) 573-7092

Albany Welcome Center112 N. Front St.229.317.4760

BIKE RENTALSAVAILABLE

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www.visitalbanyga.com OASIS DAY SPAContact: Mark Embler

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RELICS TO RICHESContact: Lauren Bailey

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Albany Fish CompanyRESTAURANTS 1921 Dawson Road Albany, GA 31707Contact: Glenn A. Singfield II (229) [email protected]

Anderson Contracting & RoofingCONTRACTORS/BUILDERS/INSPECTORS1725 N. Washington St. Albany, GA 31701Contact: Greg Anderson (229) 434-9497 Fax: (229) [email protected]

Blackbeards/B&B, Inc.RESTAURANTS2209 N. Slappey Blvd. Albany, GA 31701Contact: Randy Carr (229) 878-6369 Fax: (229) [email protected]

Consolidated Pipe andSupply Company, INC.MANUFACTURER/PROCESSOR 600 Oakland Court Leesburg, GA 31763Contact: Rob Stryker (229) 878-0239Fax: (229) 878-0529 [email protected]

Dairy QueenRESTAURANTS1804 East Oglethorpe Blvd. Albany, GA 31705Contact: Yamin Momin (229) [email protected]

Dilmar Oil CompanyGASOLINE/OIL DISTRIBUTORS,SALES & SERVICE307 E. Oglethorpe Blvd. Albany, GA 31705Contact: Matt Goodstein (229) 435-7765 Fax: (229) [email protected]

Diva's ClosetCLOTHING/ACCESSORIES317 W. Broad Avenue Albany, GA 31701Contact: Troychelle Gaines (229) 439-8010 [email protected]

DJ’S ROOFINGCONTRACTORS/BUILDERS 1106 Eager St. Albany, GA 31707Contact: Derrick Johnson (229) [email protected]

Doing My Best Transport, LLCTRANSPORTATION/WAREHOUSE/DISTRIBUTION/EQUIPMENT SA 1519 Liberty Expressway SE Albany, GA 31705Contact: Dora Jefferson (229) 296-8058 Fax: (229) 889-1139

ECO ConceptsINDUSTRIAL SERVICE/SUPPLIES/EQUIPMENT2008 Liberty Expressway SE Albany, GA 31705Contact: Tim Cook (229) 439-4874

Fax: (229) [email protected]

E-ZEE Tax Solutions DBA Jackson HewittACCOUNTANTS2019 N. Slappey Blvd. Albany, GA 31707Contact: Maggie Butler (229) 436-1114 Fax: (866) [email protected]

Events with GIGIEVENT PLANNING6021 Elliott Drive Albany, GA 31705Contact: Brenda Ruffin (229) 449-1886 [email protected]

Good Life Vapor LabSPECIALTY SHOP/ITEMS1561 US. 19 S. Unit 7 Leesburg, GA 31763Contact: Ryan Ellsworth (229) [email protected]

Hardee's of Albany - East Albany RESTAURANTS2324 E. Oglethorpe Blvd. Albany, GA 31705Contact: Mandy Odom (229) 888-0880www.hardees.com

Hardee's of Albany - Slappey DriveRESTAURANTS410 N. Slappey Blvd

WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERSVISIT WWW.AlBANyGA.COM AND VIEW THE WEB PAGES FOR All CHAMBER MEMBERS.

October/November


NEW MEMBERS continued

Albany, GA 31701Contact: Rebecca White (229) 524-2083 Fax: (229) [email protected]

Honeysuckle Hilla plus size boutiqueCLOTHING/ACCESSORIES,SPECIALTY SHOPS/ITEMS29252345 Dawson Rd., Suite B Albany, GA 31707Contact: Amanda Bennett (229) [email protected]

Integrity DynamicInvestmentsINVESTMENTS/SECURITIES107 Aubry Ct Leesburg, GA 31763Contact: Jonathan Fisk (229) 733-7479integritydynamicinvestments.cominvestments.com

JCI General Contractors, Inc.CONTRACTORS/BUILDERS/INSPECTORS2535 GA Hwy 37 West Moultrie, GA 31776 Contact: Lyndy Jones (229) 985-4444 Fax: (229) 941-2275 [email protected]

Johnson Controls, Inc.PLANT MAINTENANCE SERVICES2505 West Gordon Ave Albany, Georgia 31707Contact: Larry McCarthy [email protected]

Kate DeLoachINDIVIDUAL200 Triple Creek Trail Andersonville, GA 31711 (229) [email protected]

NeccoNON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS2231 Dawson Rd., Suite UAlbany, GA 31707Contact: Jen Maloney 229-299-5095 Fax: (229) 299-5102necco.orgEmail: [email protected]

Nail 1st by M & E, LLCNAIL SALON2601 Dawson Rd. Ste. 8 Albany, GA 31707Contact: Jessica Nguyen (229) [email protected]

Oasis Day SpaBEAUTY SALONS/ CONSULTANTS/TANNING SALONS, DAY SPA1410 Dawson Rd. Albany, GA 31707Contact: Mark Embler (229) [email protected]

Plato's ClosetCLOTHING/ACCESSORIES3232524 B Dawson Rd.Albany, GA 31707Contact: Stacey Scott (229) 435-8155 Fax: (229) [email protected]

Quail Forever, Inc. Southwest Georgia ChapterNON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS 1500 Dawson Road Albany, GA 31707Contact: Tommy Gregors (229) [email protected]

Red LobsterRESTAURANTS 2403 North Slappey Blvd. Albany, GA 31701 (229) 439-8857 Fax: (229) [email protected]

Red Roof InnHOTELS/MOTELS/BED & BREAKFASTS 1400 Dawson Rd. Albany, GA 31707 Contact: Rich Patel (229) 888-3939 Fax: (229) [email protected]

Rosenberg Men's Wear &Custom ClothierCLOTHING/ACCESSORIES215 S. Madison St., Suite AAlbany, GA 31701Contact: Barry Taylor (229) 439-7616 Fax: (229) [email protected]

Ross BurnettINDIVIDUAL522 Audubon Dr Albany, GA [email protected]

R.R. Street & Company Inc.CHEMICAL SALES,MANUFACTURER/PROCESSOR1706 Ledo Road Albany, GA 31707Contact: Marc Beard (630) 416-4244 Fax: (630) [email protected]

Salon ExcellenceBEAUTY SALONS/CONSULTANTS/TANNING SALONS412 N. Cleveland Albany, GA 31701Contact: Katrina Burks (229) [email protected]

New Members continued on page 28


NEW MEMBERS continued

Shaga Consulting &Recruiting/SCR: StaffingEMPLOYMENT/TEMPORARY/LEASING1807 Devon Drive Albany, GA 31721Contact: Shyam Patel (229) 420-0701 Fax: (229) 434-9101Toll-Free: (888) [email protected]

Southern Home Cleaningand Janitorial ServicesCLEANING/JANITORIAL SERVICE & SUPPLIESAlbany, GA [email protected]

Southern ThreadsSCREEN PRINTING, SPECIALTY SHOPS/ITEMS2801 Old Dawson Rd., Suite 150Albany, GA 31707Contact: Melissa Strother (229) 496-1775 Fax: (229) [email protected]

Tangela ClementsINDIVIDUAL4815 Pinto Drive Albany, GA 31705 (229) 376-0866

Venum VapurSPECIALTY SHOP/ITEMS 2516 Dawson Rd., Suite I Albany, GA 31707Contact: Eric Ball (229) 405-2874www.venumvapur.comInfo@venumvapur

Wilder's World 4 KidsAMUSEMENT/RECREATION2011 N. Slappey Blvd Albany, GA 31707Contact: Trena Etheredge (229) [email protected]

1 Key Realty LLC .........................2008

AAA Concrete Products Corporation ...............................1983

AB&T National Bank ....................1998ACMI Inc. .....................................1993AddTran Logistics,Inc. ..................2002Advent Business Interiors ............2008Advertising with Lisa, LLC............1996AFLAC - Karen Luthman ..............2013Agri-Business

Technologies, Inc.......................1991Albany Area Clergy Women, Inc...1997Albany Audiology & Hearing

Aid Center, LLC.........................2007Albany Dougherty Economic

Development Commission ........2008Albany Elevator Service, Inc. .......1993Albany Herald

Publishing Company .................1975Albany Pet Partners .....................2009Albany Police Department............1997Albany Scale Company................2008Albany State University ................1975Albany Vascular

Specialist Center .......................2008Allen's Jewelers ............................2013Alzheimers Association ................2013American Red Cross-

Flint River Chapter ....................1995America's Best Value Inn .............1982Andrew Tent Co. Inc......................1989Ashley's Business Solutions.........1996Awning Plus, Inc. ..........................2010

Barber Petroleum Equipment Company .................2010

Bennett Feed & Seed....................2011Best Western................................1998Best, Lou Ann, DMD.....................1996Brett Wilson, Attorney at Law........2013Bridges of Southlake, The............2008

Central Monitoring Services, Inc..............................1993

Charlie's Paint & Body, Inc. ..........2002Chehaw ........................................1998Chem Nut, Inc. .............................2008Clear Channel Communications ..1993Consolidated Loan &

Mortgage Company...................1989Cookie Shoppe, The.....................1986

Cousins Catering, Inc. ..................2005Culbreath, John W., Dr. ................2001Custom Interiors, Inc. ...................1991

D&D Wood Preserving, Inc...........1993Dance Company, The...................2008Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.Albany (GA) Alumnae Chapter .....1998Dental Partners

of Southwest Georgia................2008Diark, Inc......................................2007

Dougherty County Board of Education....................1975

Dougherty Glass Company..........1975Dukes, Edwards & Dukes Inc. ......1989

Electrical Associates of Albany, Inc. ............................1996

Evergreen Assisted Living & Century Pine.........................1998

Exchange Club Fair of Southwest GA, The ...............1992

Fairfield Inn & Suites by MarriottFairway Outdoor Advertising DBALamar AdvFarmers Home FurnitureFlint RiverKeeper, Inc.

GA Federal-State Inspection Services, Inc..............................1994

Georgia Health Sciences University/Medical College of Georgia .......2010

Georgia Power Company .............1975Georgia Wing Fest........................2013Gillespie, MD,Charles...................1999Goodlife Vapor ..............................2013

Hanger Prosthetics and Orthotics.............................1993

HTS Construction Inc. ..................2013

Ivey's Outdoor & Farm Supply......1996

J&B Irrigation................................2010J. Leek Associates, Inc..................2011James W. Buckley

& Associates, Inc. ......................1981Jim Hinton Oil Company...............1981Jimmy Cooper ..............................2013

Kiwanis Club of Dougherty County.....................2003

Lafayette Plaza Investments.........1989Liberty Tax Service .......................2013LifeLink of Georgia .......................2002Lion-Vallen Industries ...................2010LMC-Ag, LLC ...............................2003

M & G Metal Contractors..............2008Mary Linda Cotten-Coldwell Banker

Walden Kirkland .......................2007Mathews Funeral Home ...............1993Matrix Department, Inc. ...............2002Mazur and Hockman, Inc. ............1993McDonald's Restaurants ..............2013Merry Acres Inn.............................2011Mission Change............................2013Mitchell Electric

Membership Corporation...........1982Modern Motion, LLC.....................2013

New Visions Community Development Corp.....................2013

Parker Music.................................2013Parker, Edgar, DDS, PC ...............2001Parlor Hair Fashions

& Boutique, The.........................1989Pecan City Pedalers.....................2008PetroSouth, Inc. ............................2012Place on the Pointe ......................2013Pollock Heating

& Cooling Company ..................1992

THANK YOU RENEWING MEMBERSJanuary/February 2015


WE DOCOMPOUNDING

229-434-1414 • 610 N. Slappey Blvd.

Potter Motor Company, Inc. ..........1993Prescription Shoppe, The .............1993PT Gym Personal Training............2002

Ralph Jackson Hearing Aid Service................................2007

Robert F. McKinney ......................1993

Safety Max ...........................................Sculley, Ladson & Cooling, LLC ...1991Sellers Tile Distrubutors, Inc.........2001Shutters Plus, Inc. ........................2005Sizemore Plumbing

Company, Inc. ...........................2004Skyline Equipment Co. Inc. ..........2007Sonny's Real Pit Bar-B-Q .............1995Southern Industrial Electronics ....2008Southland Appraisal

Services,Inc...............................1997Southwest Georgia

SHRM/Albany Chapter ..............2013Swain Equipment Co ....................2013SWGA Nephrology Clinic .............1994

The Centre' for Cosmetic Dentistry ....................2013

The Door & Window Co................2009

U S Screenprinting and Sign, LLC............................2013

U SAVE IT Pharmacy - Northwest..................................2002

U.S. Army Recruiting ....................2012Usry Consulting............................2009

Webco Electrical Construction & Design ..............2000

WelForce Administrators, LLC......2009Wetherald Associates

Plastering & Acoustics...............1993Woodpine Way Apartments ..........2001

YMCA, Albany ..............................1979

29January/February 2015 www.AlbanyGa.com | BUSINESS 31January/February 2015

January/February 2015 Renuew Members Continued

ELECTRIC

AL CONTRACTORS

• COMMERCIAL• RESIDENTIAL

705 Canal Streetwww.awestenterprise.com

(229) 888-8347

Rest easy. It’s Wingate.

2735 Dawson Road, Albany • 229.883.9800Reservations 800.228.1000 • Fax 229.883-9855

www.wingatehotels.com

Continental Breakfast Bar • Free Wireless andWired Internet Access • Pool • Fitness Center

• Whirlpool • Micro-Frig In Every Room • Meeting and Banquet Facilities

• Business Center

Afternoon receptions Mon-Wed.

Our students make a hugeimpact even before graduation.

$78 million a year, to be exact.

For more information, call 229-317-6595 or go to darton.edu

That’s how much Darton students spend here every year, even before they graduate to become a source of professionalsfor the region’s economy.

Our focus is on teaching theknowledge and skills our region’semployers will need in the future.

That’s why supporting Dartonis just good business.

What a great idea...A college for everybody.

During 2014, your Chamber was busy bringing people together to add value to your membershipand increase our effectiveness in the community. With value added services such as discounts forChamber members, we also had a huge amount of success with our annual programs and events.Attendance at our programs and events increased allowing us to provide more educationalopportunities through seminars and member services.

2015 is off to a great start and due to the efforts and successes in 2014. To begin 2014 we madechanges to best communicate our interests at the state level by entering into an agreement with UsryConsulting. Public policy and advocacy is one of the core competencies that all Chambers shouldincorporate into their body of work. This partnership strengthened our ability to stronglycommunicate the items on our 2014 Legislative Agenda as well as other issues that were ofimportance.

What came from that decision was one of our most successful legislative years. We were happywith the outcome of the Flint River Drought Protection Act and we give special thanks to our statedelegation for ensuring the water resource policies reflected our best interests in relation toeconomic development and agri-business.

Though it is still an ongoing discussion, great dialogue was created to move toward consolidation of elements/units of theGeorgia National Guard to Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany. This effort will enhance the daily operations of the base andprovide greater resiliency for the base and surrounding areas. We are still hard at work on this effort as we feel it will providean additional resource that will make MCLB Albany’s impact to our community more valuable. Other issues that saw successin 2014 are ongoing funding for our Higher Education partners including Albany State University’s Multi-purpose Academicbuilding, the completion of the Darton College Student Center and funding for Phase II of the Carlton Construction Academyat Albany Technical College. We hope to see more progress on these during the 2015 general session.

Another success that we believe made a dramatic impact in our community was the launching of our new Institute forLeadership Development initiative. This program consists of 13 rising stars in our community that are receiving the tools andresources to develop personally and professionally to lead our community in the future. Applications are now being acceptedfor the 2015-2016 program year. We encourage our members to identify those young professionals in your organization thatyou believe are rising stars. Call us today for more information or to receive your copy of the application.

Our successes in 2014 far exceed the amount of space given for this article, so I must conclude with our “Think Local”campaign. After more than a year of planning and discussions within our Small Business Resource Committee we officiallylaunched “Think Local” at our 105th Annual Meeting in January. Though many of you heard about it previously, this effortwill not stop with the presentation. It is vital that our residents understand the importance of doing business locally. If we aregoing to thrive as a community economically, it begins with keeping our dollars at home. This creates a massive dominoeffect of economic impact. I encourage you to view our Think Local video on our website to truly understand what we mean.

Thank you again for supporting YOUR Chamber in 2014 and we look forward to sharing more successes in 2015. “When you put yourself in the customer’s shoes and begin your dialog from there, an immediate connection develops that

stems beyond basic commerce and encourages loyalty.” Steve Mariboli.


MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT/CEO

Chris Hardy, IOM, CCEPresident/CEO


Albany Surgical Breaks Ground For New Facility

Albany Surgical, P.C. broke ground on their new office andambulatory surgery center. The new center will be locatedon Westover Road next door to CVS. This will be the firstgeneral surgery center to be constructed in south Georgiaand will better serve the needs of patients in the region. The

new facility will contain expanded clinical practice space, aswell as a state licensed two operating room outpatientsurgical suite. The practice is investing more than $6 millionin the 25,000 square foot facilty. It will take approximately11 months to build. Congratulations!


3303 Gillionville Road Albany, Georgia 31721

Phone: 229-432-9301Fax: 229-436-31891-800-226-9301

www.albanygacomm.com

Albany Communications, Inc.

SOLUTIONSRadio Solutions Channel Partner

• College Preparatory Academics

• Smaller Class Sizes

• Fine arts Instruction Beginning in Pre-K

• Foreign Language Beginning in Pre-K

• AP Classes Beginning in 10th Grade

• Opportunities in Athletics and Fine Arts

Deerfield-Windsor SchoolA College Preparatory School

Deerfield-Windsor School

2500 Nottingham Way • www.deerfieldwindsor.com • 229-435-1301

Excellence in Academics-Arts-Athletics and Service

PRINCE OF ALBANYPRINCE OF ALBANY

2701 Ledo Road, Albany229-432-6271PrinceAutoAlbany.com


Our Progress

EMPLOYMENT• Gainfully Employed - 88% (11 new jobs)• Retention Rate - 71% (after six (6) months)

EDUCATION• Increased Educational Enrollment - 56%

INCREASE IN INCOME• 6 months - 17% • 12 months - 44%

SAVINGS• New/Opened Savings Accounts - 67%

2014 Strive2Thrive An 2014 Jane Willson Family of the Year Award

On December 11, 2014, during the ChamberStrive2Thrive (S2T) Rise N Shine breakfast, PateciaSimmons was awarded the Jane Willson Family ofthe Year Award. This award recognizes the TeamLeader who has exemplified outstanding leadership,shown commitment to the program through activeparticipation, and has given back to the communitythrough volunteerism.

Prior to enrolling into Strive2Thrive (S2T), Ms.Simmons lost her job and apartment. Thisunfortunate set back forced her to move back inwith her mother. During this time, she obtainedseveral work at home jobs, but still remainedunderemployed. Given the hardships she faced,Patecia decided to enroll in S2T. Through hermotivation to get back on the road to self-sufficiency,she acted upon a job lead provided by her S2TCoach, and attended a Department of Family and

Children Services (DFACS) job fair at Albany Technical College. She was hired on the spot andis currently employed with DFACS as a Call Center Representative. Additionally, through the S2Tpartnership with the City of Albany TBRA program, Ms. Simmons was able to move out of hermother’s home into a beautiful apartment in NW Albany. Patecia has paid off some of her smalldebts, established a 500.00 emergency fund and continues to save monthly. Through the YMCAHealth/Wellness partnership with S2T, Ms. Simmons and her son acquired a Helping Handsmembership. This membership has not only been beneficial for health and wellness, but hasassisted in motivating her son to improve his grades through participation in Y sports activities.

Ms. Simmons next steps include re-enrollment into Albany Technical College andhomeownership. She is just one of the many examples of growth and success throughcommunity engagement and empowerment.


By the Numbers

www.strive2thrive.org

nnual Report

Number Served in Phase I Phase I: Getting Ahead (2 Classes) 24Families accepted into Phase II 10

Number Served in Phase IIFamilies Served in Phase II 30Individuals ( including children) 78

Overall Number Served in Phase I & II Families Served in 2014 44Individuals served in 2014 92

Phase II Head of HouseholdDemographics

NationalityAfrican American 28Caucasian 2

GenderFemale 26Male 4

Marital StatusSingle 26Married 4

Age18 – 24 425 – 29 630 – 34 1135 – 39 340 – 44 245 – 49 250 + 2

Special CategoryDisabilities 3

Director’s Message2014 was a year of tremendous change

and transition for Strive2Thrive, despite thechanges we have not only persevered buthave exceeded our goals. I have been withthe program since its inception in 2009.During which time, I served as a volunteer,consultant, coach and now ExecutiveDirector. During these five years I’vewitnessed what amazing results canhappen when a community unites beyondrace, income, and across class lines.

Eradicating poverty extends beyondproviding resources; it also involves

eradicating faulty belief systems and impoverished mindsets. The movefrom poverty to self-sufficiency is not a cookie cutter process, but takespatience and the realization that change is an inside job.

Community engagement is one of the primary tools needed toinsure that Strive2Thrive remains a viable part of eradicating poverty inDougherty County. Often times “poverty” is viewed from a globalperspective, when in reality it is a “squatter in our own backyard.”

Our goal in 2015 is to increase community engagement and ourcapacity to serve more families. With the help of this community, wecan move towards creating positive trans-generational legacies, byending the cycle of poverty in the lives of those we serve.

Strive2Thrive salutes all of our generous donors, partners, volunteersand the community. Without you the results you see would not bepossible. Together we can continue to empower Dougherty Countyfamilies who live in poverty to move successfully towards selfsufficiency, by providing a “HAND UP and not a HAND OUT!”

Alvita Swain

TRANSPORTATION• Reliable Transportation - 60% • Obtained New Reliable Transportation - 4• Paid Off Vehicles - 2

HOUSING• Safe / Affordable Housing - 100%• Obtained Housing through S2T/ City of Albany TBRA Partnership- 4• Obtained Housing through S2T/Albany Housing Authority Partnership - 2

HEALTH AND WELLNESS• Helping Hands Memberships through S2T/ Albany Area YMCAPartnership - 14 (includes 6 adults/4 children)


AUDIT | ACCOUNTING | TAX SERVICES

Managing the components of your business is not easy. For more than 95 years, we have helped clients put the gears of success in motion.

We understand the mechanics of your business.

229-446-3600 | mjcpa.com 2303 Dawson Road | Albany, GA 31707

Strive2Thrive Rise N Shine BreakfastStrive2Thrive proudly announced that even though they have beengoing through tremendous change and transition they exceeded theirgoals for the year. Nakosha Dillard, who spoke at the breakfast, hasbeen a participant with Strive2Thrive since 2009. Dillard stated thatStrive2Thrive changed her life. She attained her bachelor’s degree atAlbany State University, and is now on course for a masters degree.She’s even authored a book entitled “Surviving College While Raising aToddler. Also at the breakfast, Strive 2 Thrive Team Leader PateciaSimmons received the annual Jane Willson Family of the Year Award forher commitment to the program and her “giving back” throughvolunteerism. Thank you to our sponsors for making this breakfastpossible: Albany State University and Procter & Gamble.

Audit TaxReimbursement Consulting

Providing innovative strategies

www.draffin-tucker.comAlbany 800-864-1225Atlanta

for more than 65 years.

Draffin & Tucker is a full-service accounting firm with a strongregional presence. Our clients range from small businesses to

large corporations, individuals, government entities, non-profitorganizations, and healthcare providers. We take pride in

providing our clients with guidance and knowledge necessaryto meet their financial goals and achieve business success.

For more than 65 years, our clients have looked to usas planning advisors, business strategists, and financial guides.

january february 2015 business magazine

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