Category Archives: News & Publications

September Business After Hours

Get Ready to MIX IT UP at Business After Hours! ✈️

Join us for an unforgettable evening on September 17 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Southwest Regional Airport! This is your chance to connect with fellow business professionals while soaking up the atmosphere of the brand-new General Aviation Terminal.

Event Details:

  • Date: September 17, 2024
  • Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
  • Location: City of Albany/SWGA Regional Airport (New General Aviation Terminal) 3905 Newton Road, Suite 111 Albany, GA 31701

Savor delicious refreshments provided by the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission and the Convention & Visitor’s Bureau.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to mingle with the local business community in a lively and dynamic setting. Bring your business card for a chance to win fabulous door prizes! Plus, register at www.albanyga.com to enter for a $100 cash prize, courtesy of our friends at Colony Bank.

Carlton Breast Health Center is offering FREE 3-D Mammogram Screenings

Sign up today if you are eligible!

During the month of October, in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness and overall women’s health,

Phoebe will be offering free 3-D mammogram screenings to women who are uninsured for their

annual screening at the Carlton Breast Health Center.

Details: The free 3-D mammograms will be provided to the first 100 eligible women who make

appointments at the Carlton Breast Health Center. To be considered for one of the free breast

tomosynthesis screenings, each applicant must meet the following criteria:

• not had a mammogram in the last 12 months

• age 40 or older

• not experiencing any breast problems, (if you are

experiencing breast problems, contact your doctor

immediately)

• uninsured

• not pregnant

• live in one of the following counties: Baker, Calhoun, Colquitt,

Crisp, Dougherty, Early, Lee, Miller, Mitchell, Randolph,

Sumter, Terrell, Tift, Turner and Worth

• must have a referring physician

Please note that this event is only for initial mammogram screening and does not apply to follow-up

imaging needs.

To schedule an appointment, call

Phoebe Patient Contact Center at 229-312-4800.

Scheduling for the free mammograms will

begin Monday, September 16, 2024.

Mauldin & Jenkins Advances in Annual IPA Top 100 Firms Ranking

ATLANTA– Mauldin & Jenkins, a leading provider of accounting and advisory services, proudly announces its advancement on Inside Public Accounting’s 2024 list of Top 100 Firms. Moving up three positions, Mauldin & Jenkins now holds the 62nd spot, reflecting the firm’s unwavering commitment to excellence, growth, and client satisfaction.

A benchmark for the industry, Inside Public Accounting’s annual ranking recognizes firms that demonstrate outstanding performance, growth, and service quality. This achievement marks Mauldin & Jenkins’ ongoing rise in the accounting profession and highlights the firm’s dedication to delivering exceptional services and innovative solutions to its clients.

“We are pleased to see our efforts over this past year recognized by Inside Public Accounting,” said Managing Partner Hanson Borders. “This advancement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our talented team, as well as the trust and loyalty of our clients. We remain committed to providing top-tier services and driving value for our clients and communities.”

Over the past year, the Firm has achieved notable milestones, including the expansion of practice areas such as Outsourced Accounting and CFO Services, Transaction Advisory Services, Tax Controversy Resolution, International Tax, Cybersecurity, and Government Advisory. Additionally, the firm has made strategic investments in hiring top-tier professionals to further enhance these practice areas and broaden its service offerings. These accomplishments have played a crucial role in the firm’s upward trajectory, positioning Mauldin & Jenkins as a leader in the accounting industry.

The IPA Top 100 Firms list is widely regarded as a premier industry ranking, based on a comprehensive analysis of participating firms’ financial and operational metrics. This is IPA’s 34th year ranking the largest accounting firms. To view the complete list of firms, click here.

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About Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC
Mauldin & Jenkins is annually recognized as a Top 100 Certified Public Accounting firm by Inside Public Accounting and Accounting Today and provides assurance, tax, advisory and consulting services to clients. Founded in 1918, the Firm serves clients in a range of industries including agribusiness, government, banking, technology, healthcare, construction, manufacturing, not-for-profit, financial services, film & entertainment, private client services, and higher education. For additional information, please visit mjcpa.com.

Be Part of a Timeless Tradition! MCLB Albany’s Marine Corps Ball

Plans are underway for our time-honored celebration of the 249th establishment of the United States Marine Corps. MCCS is hoping to create a memorable evening for the Marines & Sailors stationed at Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany. On November 1, 2024, MCLB Albany will gather for a celebratory night steeped in traditions and we invite you to make an impression on these service men and women, by lessoning the burden of their expenses. 

 Eagle – $5,000 I 1 available 

• Sponsor identified as Presenting Sponsor on available marketing assets per COMMSTRAT branding guidelines. 

• Table tents displayed on each table with “Sponsored by Sponsor’s Name”. 

• 2-Free standing banner placements at entrance and near food service provided by sponsor. 

• Sponsor logo on welcome poster. 

• Four (4) tickets to attend Event. 

• Social media recognition on MCCS Albany Facebook page. 

• 1-month Happy Birthday marquee message on 5 digital marquees aboard MCLB Albany to include Sponsor logo. 

• Sponsor’s name listed on program. 

• Public recognition at event. 

• Happy Birthday rotating web ad for one month on MCCS Albany website. 

• Digital TV slide “Thank You Ad” for one month. 

 

 Globe – $2,500 I 3-available 

• Sponsor logo on welcome poster. 

• 1 Free standing banner placement near entrance. 

• Two (2) Tickets to attend Event. 

• Social media recognition on MCCS Albany Facebook page. 

• 1-month Happy Birthday marquee message on 5 digital marquees aboard MCLB Albany to include sponsor logo. 

• Happy Birthday rotating web ad for one month on MCCS Albany website. 

• Digital TV slide “Thank You Ad” for one month. 

• Public recognition at event. 

 

 Anchor – $1,000 

• Sponsor logo on welcome poster. 

• 1-month Happy Birthday marquee message on 5 digital marquees aboard MCLB Albany to include sponsor logo. 

• Digital TV slide for one month. 

• Public recognition at event. 

 

 Patriotic Friends of Albany – $500 

• Sponsor logo on welcome poster. 

Contact mccseastcommsponsorship@usmc-mccs.org for more information

 

Albany Area Chamber’s State of the Base discussion enlightens, celebrates 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

July 12, 2024 

Contact: Jay Houston 

Director of Communications and Events 

Albany Area Chamber of Commerce 

(229) 434-8700 

jhouston@albanyga.com 

Albany Area Chamber’s State of the Base discussion enlightens, celebrates 

Albany – The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated the partnership between Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany (MCLBA) and the Albany Area community Thursday during its Military Affairs Rise N Shine, hosted at the Exchange Club of Albany. The annual event introduces key Marine Corps leadership to the community, fosters understanding of MCLBA’s functions and impact, and strengthens the bonds between the military community and the community at large. 

“Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany is a powerhouse – for Albany, for the U.S. Marine Corps and for our national defense,” said Jeretha Peters, 2024 chair of the Albany Area Chamber and Wells Fargo branch manager. “The base’s annual economic impact of $1.5 billion underscores its importance to our community.” 

A “State of the Base” panel moderated by Bárbara Rivera Holmes, president and CEO of the Albany Area Chamber, provided insight into the increasingly important role and impact of MCLBA and its major tenant, Headquarters Marine Corps Logistics Command (Logcom), on the Corps’ global logistics efforts and the national defense strategy. Local-borne innovations including 5G-enabled smart warehousing, digital twins, energy security and advanced manufacturing are creating a competitive edge in today’s contested environment, Marine leaders said. 

The panel included Maj. Gen. Keith Reventlow, commanding general of Marine Corps Logistics Command; Col. Matthew McKinney, commanding officer of Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany; Col. Kirk Spangenberg, commander of Marine Depot Maintenance Command at Logcom; Col. Sharon Dubow, commander of Marine Force Storage Command at Logcom; HMC Ana Benitez from Naval Branch Health Clinic Albany; and Andra Reventlow, military spouse champion and senior advisor to the Military Community Club of Albany. 

The discussion also highlighted the important role of military spouses and families in supporting our warfighters, the challenges they often face settling into new communities and ways in which Albany, a Military Community of Excellence, can strengthen its support of them. 

The event concluded with the recognition of outstanding Marines and Sailors for their exemplary service and leadership: Cpl. Yaresly Alvarado; Cpl. Brian Rosas; Cpl. Kori Robinson; Lance Cpl. Morris; Lance Cpl. Hayden Snider, Cpl. Trenton L. Wells, HM1 Twyia Manning; HM3 Tiana Holmes. 

“We are incredibly proud of these individuals whose dedication and service embody the highest standards of excellence,” said Col. Dan Gillan (USMC Retired), chair of the Chamber’s long-standing Military Affairs Committee and CEO of the Albany Area YMCA. “Their contributions are invaluable to our community and our nation.” 

Highlighting the event was a presentation of colors by the Albany Young Marines; an invocation from Lt. Commander Mike Matson, chaplain at MCLB Albany; and a stirring rendition of the national anthem sung by Sarah Jane Houston. 

The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce extends its gratitude to the sponsors who made this event possible: Molson Coors, Albany Technical College, RHC, Coldwell Banker Walden & Kirkland, Sam Service, Dougherty County Government, Southern Point Staffing, Edward Jones with Kerry Hall, Navy Federal Credit Union, SA Recycling, Winsupply of Albany and the Exchange Club of Albany. 

For information about the Albany Area Chamber, the advantages of membership and upcoming events, visit www.albanyga.com. 

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The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1910, is leading a multi-year strategic effort to advance economic opportunities. With a diverse business community in our corner, the Albany Area Chamber 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 

Chamber CEO: Support small businesses and #ShopABY

 

From the desk of the Chamber CEO

Supporting Small Businesses: The Backbone of Our Economy

In the tapestry of our communities, small businesses are the vibrant threads that weave together the entrepreneurial spirit and economic vitality. As noted by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), these enterprises are not just mere contributors; they are the driving force behind job creation and economic activity in the United States, accounting for two-thirds of new job opportunities. This week we’ve been celebrating National Small Business Week, focusing a spotlight on the contributions of our small businesses and how local consumers can support these commercial neighbors.

For 114 years, the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce has helped businesses connect, build, influence and lead. We support businesses of all sizes and are proud to champion our small businesses, who comprise a strong percentage of our membership. Small businesses are the cornerstone of economic activity locally and nationally, generating a remarkable 44 percent of U.S. economic output. Their significance extends beyond mere numbers; they cultivate consumer spending, fostering local prosperity and enhancing market competitiveness. Through their presence, small businesses catalyze innovation, fueling growth and progress across diverse sectors.

From the general stores of yesteryears to the burgeoning tech startups of today, small businesses have been intrinsic to the nation’s narrative of growth and innovation. Their resilience amidst economic adversities echoes the indomitable spirit of American entrepreneurship, propelling us forward through tumultuous times and driving sustained progress.

Supporting small businesses transcends economic rationale; it embodies an investment in the soul of our communities. Patronizing local establishments is more than a transaction; it’s a pledge to uphold the fabric of our neighborhoods, preserving their unique identity and fostering a sense of belonging.

Here are some ways our community can support the small businesses that every day support our community:

  1. #ShopABY: Embrace the ethos of locality by prioritizing purchases from neighborhood stores and establishments. By doing so, you not only bolster the local economy but also forge meaningful connections within the community. Visit albanyga.com for the region’s most comprehensive list of local.
  2. Spread the Word: Harness the power of word-of-mouth recommendations to amplify the reach of small businesses. Share your positive experiences with others, igniting a ripple effect of support and patronage.
  3. Engage Online: Leverage social media platforms to bolster the online presence of small businesses. From leaving glowing reviews to actively engaging with their content, your digital footprint can significantly enhance their visibility and customer base.
  4. Attend Events: Participate in local events and gatherings where small businesses showcase their offerings. Your presence not only provides direct support but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and community spirit.
  5. Offer Feedback: Constructive feedback serves as a cornerstone for improvement and growth. By voicing your experiences and suggestions, you empower small businesses to adapt and evolve, ensuring their long-term success.

National Small Business Week acknowledges the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners, and recognizes their hard work, ingenuity and dedication, including their contributions to the economy. But a week is hardly adequate. As citizens of Albany and the Albany Area, it’s our responsibility to support our local, small businesses every single day. Next time you’re making an online purchase or headed to the national retailer, pause and consider if you could #ShopABY and spend those same dollars locally; studies show that out of every $100 dollars spent locally, $68 is recirculated within our local economy. Our small business environment, while strong, would thrive with this level of intention and investment from our consumers.

Supporting small businesses transcends economic transactions; it embodies a commitment to nurturing the fabric of our community. By championing the endeavors of local entrepreneurs and fostering an environment of solidarity, we pave the way for a more prosperous and resilient future for all.

Bárbara Rivera Holmes is president & CEO of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, which for 114 years has helped businesses connect, built, influence and lead, and which is leading a multi-year strategy to advance economic opportunities and a thriving community. Learn more at albanyga.com

 

 

Albany Area Chamber Celebrates 114 years

Jay Houston 

Albany Area Chamber of Commerce
jhouston@albanyga.com 

(229)434-8700 

www.albanyga.com 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

 

 

 

 

 

Albany Area Chamber Celebrates 114 Years 

 

Albany, Ga. — The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce’s 114th annual meeting brought together esteemed community and business leaders for an evening of celebration, recognition, and strategic visioning Thursday on the Bricks at Thronateeska Heritage Center in downtown Albany. 

  

Against the backdrop of downtown’s historic herringbone brick streets, a golden sunset lit up the event, presented by the city of Albany and The X for Boys, 2023 Board Chairman Perry Revell, CEO of AB&T, transferred the role to financial advisor Jeretha Peters, the 2024 chair of the Chamber’s board of directors. The organization also laid out its new strategic focus, sharing with shareholders how the Chamber will continue moving forward in the coming years through its #ImpactABY2026 initiative. 

  

“Serving as the chair of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce is an honor, and I’m humbled to have been in this capacity twice. With purpose, our Chamber serves to champion the collective interests of our members and foster a thriving environment for business and community growth,” said Revell, who served as chairman in 2020. “In 2023, we upheld and propelled this purpose forward through our #ImpactABY initiative. Emphasizing substance over appearance and practicality over form, we’ve remained future-focused, confronting challenges and envisioning the future with a spirit of service, hard work and leadership. #ImpactABY2026 is a pivotal plan, the culmination of our Chamber’s focus, and its execution is essential for our lasting impact. Together, we are sculpting the future of our region.” 

 

“I am honored to lead the Chamber into the next chapter of growth and prosperity,” said Peters. “With the support of our dedicated members and community partners, I am confident that we will continue to make a positive impact in the Albany Area. 

 

“The event recognized two outstanding community servants: Cindy Wisham of the United Way of Southwest Georgia was named the Chamber’s 2023 Ambassador of the Year for her demonstration of exceptional commitment to promoting Chamber initiatives and embodying the spirit of community engagement; and the late Dr. Anthony Parker, long-time president of Albany Technical College, was posthumously awarded the Chamber’s Lifetime Service Award.

“Dr. Parker’s commitment to empowering individuals through education reflected a genuine passion for nurturing talent and fostering success, and his visionary leadership and unwavering advocacy have fostered meaningful collaborations with local businesses, highlighting the interconnectedness of education, personal growth, and economic prosperity,” said Peters. “His legacy of generosity, innovation, and unwavering dedication will continue to inspire generations to come.” 

  

Throughout the evening, Albany Area Chamber President & CEO Bárbara Rivera Holmes highlighted the Chamber’s achievements and unveiled the ambitious goals outlined in the organization’s #ImpactABY2026 initiative. She underscored the Chamber’s commitment to excellence by listening to its members and aligning purpose and pursuits into a future-focused vision.  

 

“For 114 years, the Albany Area Chamber has helped businesses connect, build, influence and lead through programming, resources, access and advocacy. At the core of what we do is build a thriving community,” Holmes said. “From working with decision makers to inform smart policy, to working with employers and educators to build a modern and adaptive work force to solving businesses’ biggest challenges – what we do designs the path and builds a community in which people want to live and businesses want to invest.” 

  

Holmes shared examples of the Chamber’ significant achievements of the Chamber its recently-culminated strategic plan, #ImpactABY2023. These accomplishments included the introduction of a new tiered benefits investment model aligning member benefits with business goals; establishment of the Albany Area Political Leadership Institute to cultivate future public servants; redirection of the Albany Area Chamber Foundation towards talent and innovation; revitalization of Chamber programs such as Propel, Political Leadership, Ambassadors, and the annual meeting for enhanced value and impact; statewide expansion of the Chamber’s renowned Biz magazine and the launch of The Ray, a distinctive field guide to Albany; adoption of a technology strategy for digital transformation; and proactive leadership in talent development and impactful advocacy, among others. 
  

In its new strategic plan, #ImpactABY2026, the Chamber outlines a comprehensive approach focusing on three core pillars: Talent, Economy and Community. These pillars are supported by strategic divisions, each with its own set of initiatives aimed at making a significant impact across various sectors.   

 

“The Albany Area Chamber leads with competency and character, delivering results that drive business, community and regional success,” Holmes said. “#ImpactABY2026 represents our commitment to inclusive, visionary and bold leadership that empowers businesses and the community to thrive.” 

  

The Government Affairs Committee remains dedicated to advocating for pro-business policies and fostering job creation by collaborating closely with governmental partners. Initiatives including the Albany Area Political Leadership Institute are instrumental in cultivating a pipeline of informed public servants.  

  

Meanwhile, the Investor Engagement Committee plays a vital role in strengthening the bonds within the business community, facilitating networking opportunities, and recognizing members’ contributions through various platforms.  

  

The Military Affairs Committee continues to champion the interests of military personnel and their families, offering unwavering support to Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany and advocating for critical Congressional appropriations.  

  

The Talent Catalysts Committee is committed to building a robust workforce pipeline by forging connections between employers, educators, and students. Initiatives such as Albany’s new Chamber-affiliated young professionals organization underscore the Chamber’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of talent.  

  

Furthermore, the Albany Area Chamber Foundation, under the leadership of Board Chairman Matt Reed, serves houses programs including the Albany Innovation Roundtable, the Albany-Dougherty Talent Strategy 2.0, the FLEX ABY youth entrepreneurship program, Propel+, and Thrive, each designed to address specific and diverse workforce needs and drive community development. 
 
Looking ahead, the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce is poised to build upon its strategic accomplishments, focusing on talent development, impactful advocacy, and fostering a thriving community and economy in the Albany Area. 

The “Golden Hour” event featured a taste of Albany with a diverse array of food vendors Sonny’s BBQ, Sugar Mama’s, Southern Elegance Catering, La Luna Cantina, The Catch, and Newk’s Eatery – who provided delicious culinary delights for attendees to enjoy throughout the evening.  

  

The 114th annual meeting was sponsored by WebstaurantStore, Invision Technologies, Albany Area Primary Healthcare, Molson Coors, Flint River Entertainment Complex, Albany Air Conditioning & Heating Co., Next Era Energy, Flint Ag & Turf, Concrete Enterprises, Mitchell EMC, Pellicano Construction Co., Still Pond Vineyard & Winery, the Artesian Alliance and Marks Greenhouses Nursey & Landscape. These sponsors demonstrate their unwavering support for the Chamber’s mission of fostering economic prosperity and community vitality in the Albany Area. 
 
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About Albany Area Chamber of Commerce 

The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1910, is leading a multi-year strategic effort to advance business success and economic opportunities in Albany and the surrounding region. Learn more at www.albanyga.com.