Planning holiday gatherings? Surprise your guests with a beautifully arranged, professional, and festive hot chocolate bar that comes complete with an array of delicious toppings. From whipped cream and marshmallows to crushed candies and flavored syrups, there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Elevate your holiday celebrations and create a warm, inviting atmosphere that everyone will love!
Albany, Ga. – Phoebe is one of the first health systems in Georgia to join a national initiative aimed at improving health outcomes by improving health equity. The American Hospital Association’s (AHA) Health Equity Roadmap is a framework to help hospitals and health systems eliminate structural barriers that may make it more difficult for certain individuals to reach their highest potential for health.
“While we have always focused on improving access to care and providing high quality care to everyone, earlier this year we embarked on a formal journey to meet specific benchmarks that will help us achieve a higher level of health equity,” said Jen Williams, PhD, Phoebe Putney Health System Chief Diversity, Inclusion and Community Benefit Officer.
Phoebe’s first step was to complete the AHA’s Health Equity Transformation Assessment, an action taken by only seven other hospitals in Georgia. The assessment is designed to help hospitals establish a baseline and to provide a structure for continuous improvement toward transforming to a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system. Based on the results of the baseline assessment, Phoebe implemented a strategic plan, embarking on a journey to a sustainable and equitable ecosystem of healthcare within the community over the next four years.
To help guide the health system on that journey, Phoebe developed its own definition of health equity which says that Phoebe “ensures every person has an equitable opportunity to reach and maintain an optimal level of individual health and wellness, regardless of any social drivers of health.”
“We must understand that all patients may not start on equal footing. Some may not have access to transportation to get to a doctor’s appointment. Others may not be able to afford medication needed to manage a chronic condition or they may have a language barrier that prevents them from understanding a doctor’s instructions,” Williams said. “Our commitment to health equity means we are committed to finding ways to overcome those challenges, so we can ensure that every patient truly gets the individualized care and service they need.”
That commitment is leading to stronger community partnerships. Phoebe is in the process of developing a Community Partner Board focused on health equity, and earlier this year it hosted a Community Resource Fair attended by about 20 local social service agencies.
“We wanted our social workers and care teams to learn about these organizations and make connections with them so that we can better connect our patients to the resources they need,” Williams said. “We recognize that we’re not alone in this journey. We’re getting more involved in the community, and we’re excited to work with individuals, nonprofits and government entities to address some of these social drivers of health.”
Phoebe has also increased its community involvement by sponsoring official Phoebe Family volunteer opportunities with area nonprofit organizations. Last fiscal year, Phoebe worked with eight organizations and offered four hours of paid time off for employees to participate in approved volunteer events. This fiscal year, Phoebe is expanding the number of volunteer events and partner organizations and has set a goal of 550 official volunteer hours for its employees.
Phoebe is also collecting more data to help understand and respond to health inequities and social drivers of health. As part of the federal government’s focus on health equity, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) will require hospitals to collect new sociodemographic data to help reduce disparities.
“Information is great, but it’s what you do with information that makes it meaningful. We’re going to put this data to good use. We hope it will help us see trends and identify certain neighborhoods or groups where we may need to focus disease-specific prevention or management efforts,” Williams said. “Tackling inequities in our healthcare system is a big job that can seem daunting, but our goal is really pretty simple. We just want to do our part to make our community healthier.”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 19, 2024
Albany Area Chamber’s Five-Star Accreditation from U.S. Chamber Places it Among Nation’s Elite
Albany – The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce its highest-level designation: Accredited with 5 Stars. This honor recognizes the Chamber’s sound policies, effective organizational procedures and positive community impact. Among the more than 7,000 chambers nationwide, the Albany Area Chamber is one of just 151 Five-Star Accredited chambers, placing it in the top 2 percent.
“Five-Star Accreditation reflects the Albany Area Chamber’s dedication to serving Albany’s businesses and supporting our community’s economic vitality,” said Jeretha Peters, 2024 chairwoman of the Albany Area Chamber Board of Directors. “It’s a testament to the incredible partnership between our board, staff, and members. We are committed to being a guiding force in the Albany Area and propelling our region forward with innovation, vision and resilience. This honor highlights our strategic focus on making Albany an exceptional place to live, work and thrive.”
The accreditation process involves a comprehensive self-assessment and evaluation across critical areas of operations, including governance, finance, human resources, government affairs, program development, technology, communication and facilities. The Chamber’s Five-Star designation results from its dedicated focus on these components and its continued efforts to improve the business environment in the Albany Area. With this achievement, the Albany Area Chamber is now one of only 12 chambers in Georgia to hold the elite Five-Star accreditation rating.
“Chambers of commerce that achieve an Accreditation designation are truly leaders in their industry,” said Raymond P. Towle, U.S. Chamber Vice President of Federation Relations and Institute for Organization Management. “This rigorous review includes all aspects of a chamber’s policies, operations and programming. Accredited chambers are recognized for their ability to serve as a resource to their region’s businesses while maintaining transparent governance practices, sound financial controls, safe work environments, effective communications and value in programming. They are commended for their continued advocacy of free enterprise and their commitment to serving members and local businesses.”
Additionally, the Albany Area Chamber received special recognition for its programs and talent initiatives, including Propel and Propel+, the FLEX ABY partnership, the Go See! Tours and the Albany-Dougherty Talent Strategy 2.0; for its strategic communications strategy, member onboarding and its tiered dues investment model; for government affairs programming including its comprehensive legislative agenda, Albany-Dougherty Day, the Washington, DC Fly In, the Albany Area Political Leadership Institute and its relationships with local, state and federal decision makers; and for organizational excellence, including its employee development programs, strategic digital integration and comprehensive technology plan and a comprehensive disaster preparedness plan that includes communication strategies, resource allocation and support networks for businesses as well as coordination directives with local emergency services and volunteer coordination.
“Aristotle wrote that ‘Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent execution and the vision to see obstacles as opportunities.’ Our Five-Star Accreditation represents the vision, strategy, dedication and hard work of our Albany Area Chamber team, board and partners, whose north star is remarkability,” said Albany Area Chamber President & CEO Bárbara Rivera Holmes, who also leads the Albany Area Chamber Foundation. “This is my second accreditation cycle with the Albany Area Chamber, and each assessment has allowed us to assess, refine and advance. Five-Star recognition from the U.S. Chamber affirms our steadfast commitment to designing the path, leading with purpose and character, building trust and delivering measurable impact for our members, our region and, notably, our state.”
The Albany Area boasts a vibrant, diversified economy, with both large and small industry players driving innovation, manufacturing, and economic opportunity. Supported by a competitive workforce, this varied landscape fosters growth and prosperity, benefiting employers and the community alike. The Albany Area Chamber has been pivotal in attracting and sustaining these industries, strengthening the economy and creating new opportunities in Southwest Georgia.
This milestone for the Albany Area Chamber comes on the heels of a noteworthy achievement for the state of Georgia. For the 11th consecutive year, Georgia was named the No. 1 state for business by Area Development magazine. The state’s pro-business policies, robust infrastructure and skilled workforce continue to make it an attractive destination for domestic and international companies. The Albany Area Chamber’s work aligns closely with these state-level initiatives, further reinforcing Southwest Georgia’s status as a premier place for businesses to establish and grow. “Being a Five-Star accredited chamber means we are representing our members and our community and contributing to the broader success of Georgia’s thriving economy,” said Peters. “Our commitment is to actively drive Albany and Georgia forward by working hand-in-hand with our businesses, partners and public-sector leadership to create a thriving business environment that benefits all Georgians.”
The U.S. Chamber’s Accreditation Program facilitates continuing excellence in the chamber industry and fosters a pro-business environment across America. To receive Accreditation, a chamber must meet minimum standards in their operations and programs, including governance, government affairs, communications and technology. This extensive self-review can take 6-9 months to complete. The Albany Area Chamber was first accredited in 1997. In 2019, under Holmes’ leadership, it was awarded Four-Star status. The 2024 achievement of Five-Star Accreditation follows the successful execution of #ImpactABY, the Chamber’s robust strategic plan.
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About the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce
Founded in 1910, the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce is leading a multi-year strategic effort to advance economic opportunities and a thriving community. With a diverse business community in our corner, the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce works diligently to serve area businesses, develop strategies that help our community prosper and design the path of Albany’s future. Learn more at www.albanyga.com.
From Nov. 29 – Dec. 25 (27 days), 102.1 Retro FM will become SW Georgia’s Christmas Station by keeping everyone in the holiday spirit with songs from all your favorite Retro artists all day everyday through Christmas.
What does your business get from this?
2 thirty second commercials daily (54 total) from Nov. 29 – Dec. 25 IN YOUR HOUR (Value-$540)
2 sponsor acknowledgements hourly (54 total – Value $162)
Banner ad w/ link on retrofmalbany.com (Value $250)
Total value of campaign – $952
What is your investment?
$250 monthly Nov-Dec
For more information contact: Rich Richardson, Idea Generator/Results Creator
KICK OFF THE HOLIDAY SEASON RIGHT WITH SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY
ON RETRO FM 102.1
15 second commercials run November 24-29 6a-10p and 6a- 12p November 30 (7 days)
1 Facebook post during the week (time of post random)
Commercial Script
Retro FM 102.1 is celebrating Small Business Saturday on November 30 by promoting great deals from small businesses like this (35-40 word special deal for your business on that day)
Your investment: 28 commercials (4 daily) $110
70 commercials (10 daily) $225
One hourly (102 total) $275
DEADLINE NOVEMBER 22
Guarantee: For the advertising received, the undersigned Advertiser agrees to pay all amounts owed under this contract within thirty (30) days of the date any invoice is mailed by Jetstream Media. If payment is not made within this period or if the Advertiser fails to comply with any other terms of this contract, the Advertiser is in default under this contract and is responsible for all amounts due and owing Jetstream Media, in addition to all collection costs including, but not limitedto, 25% collection agency fee, court costs, interest and attorney’s fees. This contract is enforceable by Jetstream Media without havingto resort to any remedies or measures other than those required by law. Jetstream Media is not waiving any rights it may have to enforce this contract or its obligations. Payment for radio advertising purchased from Jetstream Media and funded by cooperative or vendor sources is the sole responsibility of the undersigned Advertiser.
All checks returned for nonpayment are subject to a $25.00 fee to be paid by the party hose check was returned.. Any changes to this contract must be presented in writing to Jetstream Media at least two weeks before the proposed change. The Advertiser is responsible for all sums owing as a result of any change. Proposed changes are subject to the approval of Jetstream Media including any production/voicework/creative changes. Contracts are non-cancelable. In the event the Advertiser cancels a contract, Advertiser will be responsible for the difference between rate card and the negotiated contract spot rate for any advertising that has previously aired within the dates of said contract. On this contract the average rate is $, charge back difference is $per spot.
Agency Guarantee: In consideration for the provision of advertising to the undersigned Advertiser, the undersigned Advertising Agency and/or representative thereof hereby guarantees all amounts owed Jetstream Media for the advertising ordered by the Advertiser. The Advertising Agency becomes immediately liable for all amounts of money owed by the Advertiser in the event of default, as set forth above.
Contact Rich Richardson, Idea Generator/Results Creator
Join the Albany Police Department as they provide best practice measures to protect your assets!
Thursday, November 14, 2024 ~ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
201 W. Oglethorpe Blvd | Albany, GA 31701
Community Room
Topic include:
Police – Business Communication
Internal Theft
Crime Prevention
Current Trends
Dealing with Real Time Situations
FUSUS Connect
For more information Contact CPL. D. Glover at 229.302.0851 or email dglover@albanyga.gov
Albany, Ga. – No one would begrudge Kathy Oliver if, even for a moment, she felt a little sorry for herself. But self-pity and pessimism just aren’t part of her character.
“You’ve got to have a positive attitude, and you’ve got to have faith to be able to survive,” Kathy said. She should know. She’s survived a lot.
At age 19, just two and a half months after getting married, Kathy’s husband was accidentally electrocuted. Kathy didn’t know it at the time of his death, but she was pregnant. She raised her daughter as a single mother until she remarried. Only six months later, her young stepson was killed in a car crash. More recently, her husband Billy suffered a stroke and later was involved in an automobile accident that left him seriously injured. In the years between those family tragedies, Kathy battled cancer – not once or even twice, but three times.
“Even at my lowest point, I never gave into the cancer. I didn’t dwell in it or think what it might do. There were times when I was so weak I couldn’t even walk, but I never gave into it,” she said.
Kathy’s cancer journey began in 2014 when a visit to a dermatologist to remove a cyst in her head led to a diagnosis of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of blood cancer that begins in the lymphatic system and can cause tumors throughout the body. She underwent grueling chemotherapy treatments at the Phoebe Cancer Center not far from her home in Worth County.
“The Cancer Center people were really great. I couldn’t have asked for them to be any nicer,” Kathy said. “I was unable to finish my last two treatments because my blood count dropped so low, but the doctor believed the treatments had done their job, so that was okay.”
Four years after Kathy’s first cancer diagnosis, a CT scan during an ER visit to check out severe chest congestion revealed a mass on her left breast. A biopsy confirmed breast cancer, and Kathy returned to Phoebe for two surgeries, chemo and radiation.
In 2022, she was sick again and blood work during another ER visit showed she had acute myeloid leukemia. She returned to the Phoebe Cancer Center for chemotherapy. This time she also needed a stem cell transplant which required hospitalization at Emory University Hospital.
“I spent 100 days in Atlanta. I had to have several bone marrow biopsies. They did all sorts of genetic testing and used the donor bank. Thankfully, they found a perfect match from a college student in Germany and used her stem cells for me,” Kathy said. “I appreciate what she did for me. God was with her and sent her as a blessing to me.”
Throughout all three cancer battles, Kathy’s family, friends and fellow church members at Bethel Baptist Church have been by her side. “I have had overwhelming support. I’ve been on prayer lists, not just in Worth County, but people I don’t even know all over the country and even in the Philippines where one of my brother’s lives. It’s a great feeling to know that you have people that really care for you and are there for you.”
That community support is why Kathy agreed to be the 2024 Phoebe Worth Lights of Love tree lighter. “It’s a great way to thank the community for their support,” she said.
Kathy will speak at the Lights of Love Ceremony at Phoebe Worth on Tuesday, Dec. 3 at 7 p.m. Over more than 40 years, Lights of Love has raised more than $1 million to support programs and services at the Phoebe Cancer Center that directly benefit patients like Kathy. You can “purchase” a light on the Phoebe Worth Lights of Love Tree in honor or memory of a loved one by making a donation at www.lights-of-love.org.
Kathy is honored to be part of a program that helps other cancer patients and supports the outstanding team at the Phoebe Cancer Center. Kathy said, “I don’t know if God has put special people in cancer centers or what, but the people at Phoebe are just amazing.”
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Presented by Michael Fowler 229.344.2253
Get tickets @ticketmaster.com