Progress 2015 Summer Issue

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BuildingBusinesswithFamilyAn inside lookat ASTROExterminatingServices

INSIDEThird Generation

Businesses

Chamber ApplaudsLocal Leaders

ADVOCATE • BUILD • CONNECT • PROMOTEValdostaChamber.com

Member FDIC. © Copyright 2015 Bank of the Ozarks.#1 bank as named by SNL Financial 2015, Bank Director 2014, 2013; ABA Banking Journal 2012, 2011

You have a friend here

Business is the foundation of any community, and we’re personally dedicated to keeping Valdosta strong. From

working capital and equipment financing to real estate development, we offer the services to help your business

grow. But first, we take the time to understand your business and how it works. That level of service and

attention – along with a tradition of sound, smart banking – is what makes Bank of the Ozarks the top-performing

bank in the nation for the fifth year in a row. Stop by any time to talk about what we can do for your business.

When it comes to Valdosta business, We’re more than a lender. We’re your partner.

FOUR VALDOSTA/LOWNDES COUNTY LOCATIONS

229-242-7758 BANKOZARKS.COM

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3Summer 2015 ValdostaChamber.com

Member FDIC. © Copyright 2015 Bank of the Ozarks.#1 bank as named by SNL Financial 2015, Bank Director 2014, 2013; ABA Banking Journal 2012, 2011

You have a friend here

Business is the foundation of any community, and we’re personally dedicated to keeping Valdosta strong. From

working capital and equipment financing to real estate development, we offer the services to help your business

grow. But first, we take the time to understand your business and how it works. That level of service and

attention – along with a tradition of sound, smart banking – is what makes Bank of the Ozarks the top-performing

bank in the nation for the fifth year in a row. Stop by any time to talk about what we can do for your business.

When it comes to Valdosta business, We’re more than a lender. We’re your partner.

FOUR VALDOSTA/LOWNDES COUNTY LOCATIONS

229-242-7758 BANKOZARKS.COM

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4 Summer 2015 • ValdostaChamber.com

ADVOCATE06 Advocacy In Action

08 Hire A Military Spouse Four reasons to consider

09 Certified Military Friendly

10 Moody welcomes Afghan pilots 81st Fighter Squadron reactivates 11 Valdosta Takes on the Capitol Local leaders head to Washington, D.C.

BUILD12 Building Businesses

14 Southwest Georgia Bank Invests Enay Coaching Wins Business Plan Competition

15 The Next Generation Steps In

16 Carson McLane Funeral & Cremation Services

18 Tillman & Tillman, LLP

20 Waller Heating & Air Conditioning Co.

22 Music Funeral Services, Inc.

24 Miller Hardware Company

26 Stars align for ASTRO Exterminating

CONNECT 30 Connecting Members

32 Chamber Choice Awards Celebrating Valdosta’s BEST!

34 Winners In The Workplace

35 Investing For The Next Century

CONTENTS FEATURES05 In honor of Johnny B.

05 Board of Directors/Chamber Staff

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SUMMER 2015 / Vol. 60 No. 1

PROMOTE38 Promoting Professionals

41 MetroOne’s 4 Under 40

42 Branding, Design & Media

44 Business After Hours Events

47 PrimeTime in Valdosta

49 Chamber Recognizes Top 2015 Sponsors

SPONSORS OF“ANNUAL CHAMBER MEETING”

SPECIAL THANKS TO


ur community and the chamberprofession lost one of our best inMay 2015 – Johnny B. Lastinger.

Johnny B. was hired as Executive Vice President of the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber in 1970. During his 23 years of service to the Chamber, Johnny B. brought statewide recognition to our Chamber and to our community. Even though he retired from the chamber profession more than 20 years ago, he is still recognized in“Chamber Circles” as one of Georgia’s all-time top chamber executives.

A “golden age” of industrial recruit-ment and expansion were hallmarks of Johnny B.’s 23-year tenure. Many of our community’s largest employ-ers were recruited under Johnny B’s leadership.

Another big feather in Johnny B.’s cap was persuading the Barber Trust that the Chamber should be located in Miss Ola Belle Barber’s old home – and then raising the big

bucks needed to restore the building. The Chamber has been located in the Barber House since 1981.

Johnny B. earned statewide recognition for himself – and his community – in 1990 when he was named “Chamber Executive of Year”. He was selected by his peers from among 150 chamber executives statewide.

Johnny B.’s 23 years of remarkable, committed service to the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber is responsible for many of the successes our community has experienced over the years. He is missed.

416 North Ashley St. • Valdosta, GA 31601p. 229-247-8100 • f. 229-245-0071ValdostaChamber.com

IN HONOR AND IN MEMORY OF Johnny B. Lastinger

COVER PHOTO& PAGE 27Photos taken by:

Read about Laura Perlman and ASTRO Exterminating Services, Inc. on page 26 and 27.Pictured on the cover are:Laura Culbreth Perlman of ASTRO Exterminating Services (seated) along with her husband, Kim Perlman, and daughter, Addy Perlman, outside of the Boys & Girls Club in Valdosta. The Culbreth and Perlman families have actively supported the organization for years as volun-teers and donors. The swimming pool on the cover is dedi-cated to the memory of Lamar and Margaret Culbreth.

2015 Board of DirectorsCHAIRMAN

Ron Borders, Real Living Realty Advisors

CHAIRMAN-ELECT 2016/VICE CHAIR, ORGANIZATIONAL

EXCELLENCE DIVISIONJames McGahee, Associate Member

CHAIRMAN-ELECT 2017Michael Lee, Ameris Bank

TREASURER Marty LeFiles, LeFiles Valenti Financial Advisors, LLC

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMAN andVICE CHAIR, BUSINESS & ECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENT DIVISIONCarl Holley, Fowler, Holley, Rambo & Stalvey, PC

VICE CHAIR, BUSINESS andECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

Baha Zeidan, Azalea Health

VICE CHAIR, COMMUNITYDEVELOPMENT DIVISION

Bruce Allred, Smith Drug Company

VICE CHAIR, MEMBER SERVICES DIVISION Lee McArthur, Voya

PRESIDENTMyrna Ballard, Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber

CHAIRMAN’S CHOICEJason Dove, Real Living Realty Advisors

Baha Zeidan, Azalea HealthBrad Folsom, Moore, Clarke, Duvall & Rodgers, P.C.

Jan Brice, Langdale PlaceRuss Henry, Coleman |Talley LLP

Sue Cox, Covington’s & 306 North

CHAMBER STAFFMyrna Ballard, President

Karil Brockington, Senior Director of AdministrationMike Stalvey, Senior Director of OperationsPatty Martin, Administrative Coordinator

Wanda Stanley, Director of CommunicationsKelly Naranja, Director of Marketing & MembershipCachet Prescott, Director of Business Development

Ashley Prescott, Marketing & Event Coordinator

Copyright by Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce. © All rights reserved. Progress is produced and published two times per year by the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce. Subscription rate of $20 is included with Chamber membership. Reproduction in whole or in part of this publication without the expressed written consent of the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Com-

merce is prohibited. All claims, materials, photos appearing herein are believed by the editors to be accurate. However, no responsibility or liability is assumed, and is expressly disclaimed, by the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce for any inaccuracies, errors or omissions. Advertisements, articles, photos, editorial informa-tion, and other materials submitted for publication herein are subject to the unrestricted right to the edit of and by our editors and publisher.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Progress Magazine, 416 N. Ashley Street, Valdosta, GA 31601.

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Brad, Lamb, Johnny B. and John Lastinger in 2012.

6 Summer 2014 www.ValdostaChamber.com6

The Chamber is always working for your business. Our advocacy program makes YOUR voice heard on local, state and federal levels.

ADVOCATE

How do we know what is important to our Chamber members? We ask them at events like Members To Be Heard.

“More than 1,300 members. ONE strong voice.”

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South Georgia Military Affairs Council exists to protect and support Moody Air Force Base.

Summer 2015 • ValdostaChamber.com

Lt. Governor Casey Cagle speaks with Chamber members at a recent Business After Hours.

7Summer 2014 www.ValdostaChamber.com 77

CHECK OUT

THE NEXT PAGES:

THE CHAMBER

ADVOCATES FOR

YOUR BUSINESS!

Summer 2015 ValdostaChamber.com

Georgia’s Secretary of State Brian Kemp meets with top business leaders in Valdosta.

Chairman of the Chamber Board Ron Borders, Georgia’sSecretary of State Brian Kemp and Chamber Board Member Michael Lee pose for a photo.

Members of the Chamber’s Government Affairs Council meet regularly with our State Legislative Delegation to discuss important business development issues.


s a military spouse, tran-sitioning from one city to the next can be a taxing

process. Moving every two to four years means having to start over per-sonally and professionally, oftentimes coming into a job market that is hesi-tant to consider hiring a transitioning military spouse. While there is valid-ity to hiring managers’ concerns over short stints of employment, there are many upsides to looking to this appli-cant pool. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, wage and salary workers stay at their place of employment an average of 4.6 years. For Millennials (those born between 1977-1997), the expected tenure is about half of that.* This translates into the average Millennial holding between 15-20 jobs in their working lives. With a strong percentage of military spouses falling into the Millennial applicant pool, these statistics make their tenure no different than their civilian peers. They are well-traveled, valued members of their installations as well as the communities in which they live. Need more reasons to look at hiring a military spouse?

CONSIDER THESE:

1) Cost Savings: While military spouses can’t be paid less than civil-ian employees, they often come at a cost savings to employers. Things like medical and dental insurance are provided to military families at a very low cost, one that your company likely cannot match. Military spouses also have more flexible schedules, and may be available for part time positions since major life expenses – including insurance and housing – are likely already worked into the family’s budget.

2) Adaptable, Problem Solvers: A life in constant transition is not for everyone, but military spouses are able to function and thrive in this fast-paced, constantly changing environment. The workplace is also

constantly changing, and you need employees that are adaptable and willing to take on new challengesand problems. Whether it isdealing with angry customers to juggling multiple projects, military spouses are able to get the jobdone without getting too workedup.

3) Networking: There is a lot ofsupport offered to military members and their families and spouses are part of an extensive network ofsupporters. In addition to having connections at the installationthey are living at, they likely have connections from across thecountry and globe. Military families go out of their way for oneanother. Let their networks workfor your company.

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MARRIED TO THE MILITARY

The Chamber’s Kelly Naranja and her Air Force husband, Rogelio, who is a member ofthe 38th Rescue Squadron.

Don’t let a fear of transition deter your organization from hiring a military spouse.

The Chamber loves military spouses!


4) Strong, Educated Employees: You might just get lucky and be able to hire a well-qualified, highly edu-cated spouse looking for a position that will continue their career on an upward trajectory. Studies done by the Military Family Life Project show that approximately 10 percent of all military spouses have a professional degree, which is right on track with the Census Bureau’s report of all Americans. You just may end up with an applicant that could take your business to the next level. Want to support military members and their families in the Valdosta area? Show your support by hiring a mil-itary spouse, or by becoming a member of the Chamber’s Certified Military Friendly Program.

Certified Military Friendly

Is Moody Air Force Base importantto your business?

We can bet that it is. Show your support of mili-tary members in our community by joining the

Chamber’s Certified Military Friendly program.

Businesses affiliated with the program will be rec-ognized in our marketing efforts that target military personnel, including spe-cial acknowledgement on the Chamber website and in MoodyLink magazine. Participating businesses also receive a Certified Military Friendly decal to display on the door of their business.

Let military members and their families at Moody know that your business is a great place for them to do business by joining this wonderful program.

Learn more about this program and register yourbusiness to become a member by visiting:www.ValdostaChamber/CertifiedMilitaryFriendly.com

2015 Certified Military Friendly Chamber Members:

*According to the Future WorkplaceMultiple Generations @ Work survey

Adel Dental AssociatesADT Security Services, Inc.Ameris BankBarnes Healthcare ServicesBush Wealth ManagementCenter for Personal & Family Growth, LLCCitizens Community BankColeman|Talley, LLPColony Bank ValdostaCommercial Banking CompanyCoombs Heating and Air ConditioningELead1One/Fresh BeginningsFarmers Home Furniture CompanyFirst Federal Savings of ValdostaFirst State Bank and Trust Co.Furniture Express/Beds for LessGeorgia PowerHeritage Bank of the SouthHighland Christian AcademyHoliday Inn Express & SuitesKilby Family DentistryLiberty National Life Insurance-Cannington AgencyLiteracy Volunteer Program of South GeorgiaReal Living Realty AdvisorsRoto Rooter Plumbing & Drain ServiceSAFT America, Inc.SCANA EnergySouth Georgia Medical CenterSouth Georgia TravelSoutheastern Credit UnionSouthwest Georgia BankTanner Investment GroupTeamtemps Personnel Staffing, Inc.The Gardens ValdostaTurner’s Fine FurnitureValdosta Chiropractic & RehabValdosta Oral & Maxillofacial SurgeonsValdosta Properties-Property Management Co., LLCValdosta State UniversityW. P. Walker’s VACK, Inc.Watson’s Pools & Patios, Inc.Worthington Family Dentistry

10 Summer 2014 www.ValdostaChamber.comSummer 2015 • ValdostaChamber.com

www.sgfc.com (229)244‐4444

Bank with People

you Know and Trust

10

South Georgia Military AffairsCouncil (SGMAC) hosted an event to welcome the 81st

Fighter Squadron to Moody AFB, in-cluding the Afghan Air Force members the 81st is training to fly and maintain the new A-29 aircraft. The event was a traditional South Georgia chicken sup-per at Ocean Pond Clubhouse in early June. Pictured with members of the 81st and some local business leaders are Nick Lacey (SGMAC co-chairman from the Berrien Chamber), Cindy Pullen (SGMAC co-chairman from the Lakeland-Lanier Chamber), Gloria Mitchell (SGMAC co-chairman from the Adel-Cook Chamber) and Michael Lee (Ameris Bank; SGMAC co-chairman from the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber). SGMAC was created by the four chambers of commerce in 2013 with a mission to prepare for the next round of possible Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC).

Welcoming the 81st Fighter Squadron

11Summer 2014 www.ValdostaChamber.comSummer 2015 ValdostaChamber.com

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ADVOCATING FOR YOUThe Chamber visits the U.S. Capitol

n important part of the annual Chamber visit to

Washington, D.C. is a visit with top Air Force officials at the Pentagon. This year’s April 29-May 1 visit included meetings with the Assistant Secretary and the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Installa-tions, Environment and Energy, and the Assistant Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force, International Af-fairs. Topics included BRAC and the new A-29 mission at Moody. Local participants in the meetings included (L-R) Stacy Bush (Bush Wealth Man-agement), Michael Lee (Ameris Bank; SGMAC Lowndes Co-Chairman), Nick Lacey (SGMAC Berrien Co-Chairman), Bruce Allred (Smith Drug Company;

GAC Chairman), Ron Borders (Real Living Realty; Chamber Chairman), Tammy Borders (Real Living Realty and Valdosta Board of REALTORS® ), Dean Blevins (e. dean blevins Real Estate Group), Cindy Pullen (SGMAC

Lanier Co-Chairman) and Brad Folsom (Moore, Clarke, DuVall and Rodgers; GAC Vice Chairman).Not pictured: Myrna Ballard(Chamber President).

The Valdosta delegation also met withU.S. Senators Johnny Isakson and David Perdue, and U.S. Representatives Austin Scott and Buddy Carter during their 2015 trip to Washington, D.C. In addition to sup-port for Moody AFB, the delegation lobbied our Federal delegation on four transporta-tion issues and two needed amendments to the Affordable Care Act. The trip also included a briefing from the U.S. Chamberof Commerce on small business and work-force development issues.

Pictured here at the U.S. Chamber in addition to the group above is Audrey King (Georgia Power) (second from the right) and Chamber President Myrna Ballard (fourth from left).

12 Summer 2014 www.ValdostaChamber.com

BUILD

An encouraging economicforecast was presented at this year’s

Business Outlook Breakfast.

12

WE BUILD

RELATIONSHIPS

EVERYWHERE

Building bridgesbuilds business!

WE GO!


The Chamber’s Business University provides Chamber members with a wealth of informationto grow and strengthen their businesses. This lunch and learn with Terry Rountree (T&TEnterprises, LLC) featured ways to make your website mobile friendly.

The Chamber is a business builderfocused on growing new andexisting businesses, and supportingentrepreneurs.


Mizell Williams with Goodwill Career Industries spoke to a crowd of MetroOne members about finding your motivation.

Nearly 50 nonprofit leaders gathered at the Country Inn & Suites for the Building The Best Board event. Speaker Bob Harris presented practical information to make volunteer leaders more effective.


Young leaders gathered for MetroOne’s 4 Under 40 event at the Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts.


Southwest Georgia BankInvests In YourEntrepreneurial Success

Past winners had an “alumni reunion” at the Chamber in May.

Pictured (L-R): 2010 Bill Kent (Innovate Engineering Solutions, LLC), 2008 Baha Zeidan (Azaela Health), 2014 Angela Roark (Monarch Hair Solutions, LLC), 2015 Elton Dixon (Enay Coaching) and 2011 Curt Fowler (Fowler & Company, LLC)

owndes County is teeming with entrepreneurs-in-the-making who aspire to bring

their business concepts to life. So what’s holding them back? Simply put, lack of funding prevents many businesses from ever starting or stops budding ventures dead in their tracks before they’re able to reach their full potential.

Southwest Georgia Bank understands the vital role that finance plays in the ultimate success of each busi-ness. With a desire to invest in the entrepreneurial potential that lies in the community, SGB puts its money where its mouth is by generously sponsoring the annual SGB Business Plan Competition.

“Southwest Georgia Bank under-stands and appreciates the need for small business and entrepreneurial

development,” said Jud Moritz, Senior Vice President at Southwest Georgia Bank. “The vast majority of the jobs are created by small business owners so it is vital to our community’s long term success for small business to thrive.”

The Business Plan Competition is housed in the SEEDS Business Resource Center, a one-stop-shop for business startups. SEEDS Center clients have free access to a wealth of information and resources including demographics, industry reports, mar-keting insights, business plan writing assistance and funding options.

In addition to SGB’s monetary contri-bution, competition winners receive a plethora of in-kind donations from various companies in the community. The startup capital combined with the access to valuable resources creates

a recipe for success. “Having angel sponsors is a huge additional sling-shot for any business,” 2015 SGB BPC winner Elton Dixon of Enay Coaching said. “Our angel sponsors not only launched us forward with their gifts, but became real partners who now understand our business and care about working together to grow far beyond the angel sponsorship alone.”

Aspiring and budding entrepreneurs (with for-profit ventures that have not yet filed a tax return for their first full year of operation) are strongly encouraged to enter the competition. Contestants are required to commit to employing university and technical college graduates once their business is up and running.

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For more information about the Southwest Georgia Bank Business Plan Competition, please call Cachet Prescott at 229-247-8100 ext. 234 or visit SEEDSBusinessResourceCenter.com.

15Summer 2014 www.ValdostaChamber.com

hrough recessions and hardships, expansions and prosperity, the one thing

that remains consistent in a third gen-eration business is family. Statistics show that while more than 30 percent of family-owned businesses survive into the second generation, just 12 percent survive into the third.* For those who have figured out a way to make it work, we salute you.

In Metro Valdosta, third generation businesses span industries from ac-counting to funeral services. While transitioning a business from one generation to the next has the poten-tial to break a family business, we are fortunate that the businesses featured here have survived and thrived.

Entrepreneurial activity is essential to the growth and development of our communities. The businesses repre-sented on the pages that follow are just a few of the entrepreneurs who have continued the visions of their predecessors, while forging their own paths into the future.

In the following pages, you’ll learn about the journeys of Carson McLane Funeral & Cremation Services,Tillman & Tillman, LLP, WallerHeating & Air Conditioning Co., Music Funeral Services and Miller Hardware Company.

Three generations deep, these com-panies have proven that there is a way to run a business, and there is away to run a business well. These

companies represent more thannumbers and figures, they represent a history of this community.

Oscar Wilde once said, “After a good dinner one can forgive anybody, even one’s own relations.” While this has not been confirmed, we imagine that these families have enjoyed a good dinner or two along the way.

*Source: Conway Center forFamily Business

The Next Generation Steps InA tribute to Lowndes County businesses who are celebrating their third generation of family ownership


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Miller Hardware’s Dutton Miller and sons, Richard Miller and Jonathan Miller.


Carson McLane Funeral & Cremation Services:Celebrating Three Generations


n 1936, Carson McLane estab-lished a new company (Carson McLane, Inc.) to provide funeral

service and ambulance service to this com-munity. He had come to Valdosta from Lake Park on April 1, 1928 to begin work with another

funeral home here in Valdosta. In the fall of 1936, McLane secured a location in downtown Valdosta for his new funeral home and began bringing together the equipment, staff and supplies to provide a quality service to the entire area. In 1951, the funeral home was relocat-ed to its present location at 2215 N. Patterson St. It was the first funeral home in the area to be built from the ground up as a funeral home. Several additions and improvements have been made to the facility over the years to keep it up to date, beau-tiful and functional in serving the needs of the community.

Tyson McLane beganassisting his father at thefuneral home in 1955. Hisfirst assignment was tohelp the company’s ambu-lance service transferpatients from Little-GriffinHospital to PineviewGeneral Hospital (nowSouth Georgia MedicalCenter). He joined hisfather on a full time basisin 1965 after graduatingfrom the University ofGeorgia and San FranciscoCollege of Mortuary Science. Tyson has now workedover 50 years in the business,and is proud to continueserving on a part timebasis these days.

Britt McLane, son of Tyson McLane, also began work in the family busi-ness at an early age. After graduat-ing from Valdosta State University and Gupton Jones College of Funeral Service in Atlanta, Britt joined the firm on a full time basis in 1993 and is currently serving as President. Carson McLane, Inc. is proud to be in

the third generation of McLane family ownership and man-agement.

Over the years, locations have been added in Hahira, Lake Park and a cemetery in Valdosta. As these locations have multiplied and the diversity of services has expanded, the firm is now known as McLane Funeral & Cremation Services.

The website at www.McLaneCares.com offers more information about services, history, current obituaries and other information. The firm is also offering services for beloved pets, known as Pets at Peace by McLane. We value the relationships that we have formed with so many individuals and families over the years.

Carson McLane always looks forward to new relationships as our community grows.

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Currentlocation on Patterson Street.

THIRD GENERATION

Carson McLane’s first location located at109 West Central Ave, downtown Valdosta.

A previous location in an antebellum home near where the Converse Dalton home is now.

17Summer 2014 www.ValdostaChamber.comSummer 2015 • ValdostaChamber.com


Harrison Tillman, Sr., a graduate of

the University of Georgia, set up his accounting practice in 1954 provid-ing tax services to individuals and businesses and auditing services for businesses and governments. He built a successful practice while helping raise five children and pro-viding a college education for each of them.

Joseph H. Tillman joined the practice in 1976 after graduating from the University of Georgia’s undergraduate program and Master in Accountancy program. He began building his practice providing tax services and business consulting including computer services as the technology of computer services was just beginning. His practice evolved over time into business consulting, litigation support and business, individual and estate tax services.

H. Harrison Tillman, Jr. joined the practice in 1979 after graduating from the University of Georgia. He worked in programming account-ing systems for businesses and computer consulting. He also worked in governmental auditing and eventually developed a prac-tice that is predominately govern-mental and nonprofit auditing and consulting services.

Pam K. Tillman, Joe’s wife, joined the practice in 1989. A graduate of Valdosta State University, she provides retirement plan services as well as individual and business tax services and consulting.

Eric M. Tillman, Joe’s son and third generation CPA, joined the practice in 2004 after graduating fromValdosta State University and has developed a practice in business and individual taxes and consulting.

Accounting, like many professional fields of work, is one that is rapidly changing. Tillman & Tillman, LLP is proud to provide individual exper-tise in many areas of accounting to help our clients navigate through those changes.

We look forward tocontinuing to serve ourclients in the future!

H.H. Harrison Tillman, Sr., a graduate of the University of Georgia, set up his accounting practice in 1954 providing tax services to individuals and businesses and auditing services for business-es and governments. He built a successful practice while helping raise five children and provid-ing a college education for each of them. Joseph H. Tillman joined the practice in 1976 after graduating from the University of Georgia’s undergraduate program and Master in Accountancy program. He began building his practice providing tax services and business consulting including providing computer services as the technology of computer services was just beginning. His practice over time evolved into business consulting and business and individual tax services.

H. Harrison Tillman, Jr. joined the practice in 1979 after graduating from the University of Georgia and worked in programming accounting systems for businesses and computer consulting. He also worked in governmental auditing and eventually developed a practice that is predominately governmental and nonprofit auditing and consulting services.

Pam K. Tillman, Joe’s wife, joined the practice in 1989. A graduate of Valdosta State University, she provides retirement plan services as well as individual and business tax services and con-sulting.

Eric M. Tillman, Joe’s son and third generation CPA, joined the practice in 2004 after graduating from Valdosta State University and has developed a practice in business and individual taxes and consulting.

Accounting, like many professional fields of work, is constantly changing and Tillman & Tillman, LLP is proud to have partners with the individual expertise in so many areas of accounting to communicate what these changes mean to our clients.

H. Harrison Tillman, Sr., a graduate of the University of Georgia, set up his accounting practice in 1954 providing tax services to individuals and businesses and auditing services for business-es and governments. He built a successful practice while helping raise five children and provid-ing a college education for each of them. Joseph H. Tillman joined the practice in 1976 after graduating from the University of Georgia’s undergraduate program and Master in Accountancy program. He began building his practice providing tax services and business consulting including providing computer services as the technology of computer services was just beginning. His practice over time evolved into business consulting and business and individual tax services.

H. Harrison Tillman, Jr. joined the practice in 1979 after graduating from the University of Georgia and worked in programming accounting systems for businesses and computer consulting. He also worked in governmental auditing and eventually developed a practice that is predominately governmental and nonprofit auditing and consulting services.

Pam K. Tillman, Joe’s wife, joined the practice in 1989. A graduate of Valdosta State University, she provides retirement plan services as well as individual and business tax services and con-sulting.

Eric M. Tillman, Joe’s son and third generation CPA, joined the practice in 2004 after graduating from Valdosta State University and has developed a practice in business and individual taxes and consulting.

Accounting, like many professional fields of work, is constantly changing and Tillman & Tillman, LLP is proud to have partners with the individual expertise in so many areas of accounting to communicate what these changes mean to our clients.

Members: American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants

Serving clients since 1954!

Tillman & Tillman, LLP: Accountable forThree Generations

THIRD GENERATION


3269 N. Valdosta Road P.O. Box 3488 Valdosta, GA 31604-3488

(229) 259-9490 Fax (229) 259-9491 ttllp.com

Members AICPA and GSCPA

In a world that is constantly changing,there are more questions than answers.

At Tillman & Tillman, LLP we are proud to provide those answers.

Joseph H. Tillman, CPA

H. Harrison Tillman, Jr., CPA

Pamela K. Tillman, CPA

Eric M. Tillman, CPA

Angela M. Hawkins, CPA

H. Harrison Tillman, Sr., CPA (1927-2010)



THIRD GENERATION

Waller Heating & Air Conditioning Co.:Keeping The Community At The Right Climate

or over 50 years, Waller Heating & Air Condition-ing Co. has been serving

South Georgia and North Florida with great customer service and a reliable product. Though the company has changed throughout the years, those two qualities have remained the same. Founders David Waller Sr. and his wife, Sharon, have watched their company grow from generation to generation based on those premises, and are proud that their company has been selected as the best heating and air conditioning company in South Georgia for the 5th consecutive year.

David and Sharon began Waller Heating & Air Conditioning Co. in Valdosta in 1963, and the company has been family owned and oper-ated ever since. Waller Heating & Air Conditioning, Co. has grown from a small operation of three employees to a specialized staff of 45 employ-ees with a combined total of more than 450 years of experience.

In 1991, David Waller Sr. sold his business to second generation own-ers, David Waller Jr, Bill Slaughter and Cindy Waller Slaughter. The three grew the business, enabling Waller Heating & Air Conditioning Co. to open a second location in Thomasville, GA in 2009.

Chad and Josh Slaughter, grand-sons of David Waller, Sr., have now moved into management and own-ership roles, helping to expand the company into its next phase. Waller Heating & Air Conditioning Co.’s focus on great customer service and a reliable product have attracted many new employees, while retain-

ing many employees who were with the company in its infancy. Warehouse foreman John Hightower is still working today just as he did when the doors opened in 1963.

Expanding ServicesAs the company ex-panded to Thomasville, they also expanded their service offerings. In 1981,

they began carrying the popular Trane line of heating and air equip-ment and they have recently added the Lennox brand of equipment to their already dependable product line. A new duct cleaning service has also been added to the company in the last few years.

Giving BackDue to the company’s success, the generations of Wallers’ have been able to give back to the community through the support of many non-profit groups, church groups, local schools, The Boys & Girls Club of Valdosta and Habitat for Humanity.

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John Hightower still working since 1963.

Waller Heating & Air current owners (L-R) Chad Slaughter, David Waller, Jr., Cindy Slaughter, Bill Slaughter and Josh Slaughter.

David and Sharon Waller at work in the office in the early 60’s.

Habitat for Humanity Jimmy Carter Work Project


Thomasville, GAValdosta, GA

Valdosta, GA405 N. ST. AUGUSTINE ROAD

229-244-1200

Thomasville, GA15048 US HWY 19 SOUTH

229-225-1200

Residential • CommercialNew Construction • Service

LICENSED / BONDED / INSUREDGA Lic. # CN7050 • FL Lic. # CAC058168

www.wallerhvac.com

Serving South Georgia & North Florida

Summer 2015 • ValdostaChamber.com22

Music Funeral Services: CompassionateService For Three Generations

THIRD GENERATION

ounded by the late W.G. “Glyndon” Sr. and Max-ine Music in 1955, Music Funeral Services has

been serving South Georgia families for 60 years. Today, MusicFuneral Services remains a family business, now being run by the third generation of the Music family.

Glyndon and Maxine MusicThe company’s first location in Lake-land was the birth home of Mrs. Nell Roquemore. When Glyndon and Maxine purchased the home, they wanted to use it as a place that served their community with trust, compassion and love. They turned the home into a business in 1955, but treated their customers as family. The values instilled by Glyndon and Maxine are still being practiced by the family today.

W. G. “Dub” Music, Jr. Glyndon and Maxine ran the Lake-land location for nearly twenty years before turning it over to their son, Dub Music grew up in the family business, and began working for his father at age 13. Ever since he was a little boy, Dub planned to follow in his father’s footsteps by taking care of those in the community. He started working full time for the company in 1968, taking over the

business in 1974 after his father’s retire-ment. Dub and his wife, Wilma, have four children, Casey, Michael, Lee and Kyle. Casey, Michael and Lee MusicUnlike his father, Casey didn’t imme-diately know that he had a future in the family busi-ness. That all changed when Casey was attending college and received a call from his father. There had been a tragedy in the com-munity, and Dub needed Casey’s assistance. Casey put his trust in God and following that event, he put his heart into Music Funeral Services and never looked back. He helped open the Valdosta location in 2001 along with the Azalea Crematory. As owner and funeral director at both the Lakeland and Valdosta locations, Casey knows that this is where he was meant to be.

Caring for people in their time of need is something that Dub passed on to all of his children, and that Casey hopes to pass on to his young children, Kaytibeth and Aubrey, as well. The young Music children

have plenty of leaders to look up to in the family business, including their grandfather; father; mother, Brooke; and uncles, Michael and Lee, who work as Apprentices for Music Funeral Services.

Music FamilyAcross the generations, the Musics have taken the time to care for every family that they serve. Their cus-tomer base stretches as far as Fargo and Tifton because of their reputa-tion for excellence in service. Trust and love are two characteristics that Glyndon and Maxine ran their busi-ness on back in 1955.

While a lot has changed sincethen, trust and love remain at the forefront of Music Funeral Services.

F

23Summer 2015 • ValdostaChamber.com

We make plans for the “WHAT IFS” in life -

Why not talk to US about the inevitable?

TWO LOCATIONS:3831 North Valdosta Rd., Valdosta, GA

229-244-2500

88 West Main Street, Lakeland, GA

229-482-3385

Please visit us atwww.musicfuneralservices.com

Or email us [email protected]

SERVICES OFFERED: • Advanced Funeral Planning • Complete Funeral Service • Complete Cremation Service • Personalized Service • Caskets, vaults and urns

Pre-payment options available - call Paulatoday to schedule your pre-planning meeting

NOW OFFERING: “Retire a Flag...Honor aVeteran Program”When your flags are no longer worthy of display, please bring them to us and we will cremate the flag with an honorablydischarged Veteran. Your flag will be draped across their cremation casket at the time of cremation. It is a fitting tribute to Veterans and a patriotic way to retire aged flags.

Call TODAY for complete details!


THIRD GENERATION



hile it may be South Georgia’s largest inde-

pendent pest control company, ASTRO Exterminating was established as a family business. The company has been serving South Georgia with full service pest control for more than four decades, offering today’s mod-ern technology in pest and termite control. Founded by Lamar Culbreth and his wife, Margaret, the company started small and has since expanded to eleven locations and over 300 employees.

The Valdosta location is now run by Culbreth’s daughter, Laura Perlman. “When my dad started this business in 1969, he said he wanted to have the kind of business he would like to work for,” Perlman said.

While pest control is traditionally a high turnover business, Perlman takes great pride in ASTRO’s ability to attract and retain long standing employees by honoring her father’s commitment to taking care of his staff and his community.

In my eyes, there are two big things that really set us apart here at ASTRO. One, it’s the individuals that we have work-ing with us and two, it’s our service. The answer to ourcustomers is always ‘YES.’

Laura Perlman

Perlman attests that she receives compliments nearly every day from satisfied customers, attributing that success to both the employees and her management team. “We focus

WStars still aligned for ASTRO Exterminating

View the back cover to see the services ASTRO offers our community.

“ “


ASTRO IS BUILT

ON CUSTOMER

SATISFACTION!


on the work at hand but also the little things,” she said. “Simple gestures like making sure to wipe your feet before entering someone’s home make a big difference. We’re not per-fect and we are always looking for ways to improve, but keep-ing that service mentality in mind really goes a long way.”

The company has come a long way since its early beginnings. When Culbreth left his position as vice president of a national pest control company to branch out on his own, he was the sole technician. Today, the com-pany spans thirteen locations in South Georgia and South Carolina.

“Even though we’ve evolved into a larger company, we still run on the basic principles that my dad built,” Perlman said. From monthly employee cook-outs to support of local orga-nizations like the Boys & Girls Club, Culbreth’s vision is still being practiced today.

“My dad used to say, ‘Laura,you can’t run a business with your heart, but when you lose heart, it’s time to get out,’” said Perlman. “Because of the won-derful staff that I have, I’ve been able to both work and raise my daughter. It’s truly a great balance and I am very lucky.”

ASTRO was established in 1969, the same year that man first landed on the moon. Lamar and Margaret had nearly everything set to open their business apart from its name. They had thought long and hard when it dawned on Margaret, “Well honey, if man can land on the moon, we can shoot for the stars.” And so the name “ASTRO” and the shooting star logo were born.

Laura (L) and Addy (R) Perlman outside of Valwood School, where Addy attends.

In exchange for hard work and dedication, ASTROencourages its employees to find a balance between their work lives and their personal lives

Forty-six years later, the stars are still aligned.

ASTRO is a proud supporter of many local organizations including the Boys & Girls Club. The family sits with children in front of the Culbreth Aquatic Center in Valdosta.

Patio chair courtesy of Turner’s Fine Furniture.

Serving Valdosta for over 75 Years!

229-247-65002314 N. Patterson Street • Valdosta, GA

(Across from South Georgia Medical Center)

Baytree Rd - sgatravel.com - Follow us on Facebook!

Banking products are provided by Synovus Bank, Member FDIC. Divisions of Synovus Bank operate under multiple trade names across the Southeast.

Here is where one barber chair turned into four turned into a buzzcut empire.

Being a master of clippers doesn’t make one a master of SBA loans and employee benefits. Which is why it’s good to have Synovus on your side. We’re right down the street with some pretty snazzy hair-dos and everything a small business needs to grow into a big one. synovus.com/businessbanking

SERVING YOU LOCALLY AS

229.242.5725 | fsbtc.com


29

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30 Summer 2014 www.ValdostaChamber.com30

CONNECT

MetroOne members participate in a Young Profession-als Panel at Valdosta State University to inform stu-dents about the importance of internships.

“We believe in connectingbusinesses by connectingpeople.”

3030

The Right Start Committee connects with new Airmen at Moody. Each month the committee attends the Newcomer Orientation at Moody Air Force Base.Summer 2015 • ValdostaChamber.com

It’s not always what you know, but WHO you know! The Chamber keeps youconnected to the area’s leading profes-sional network and potential clientele. Grow your network, grow your business!


Membership 101 welcomes new Chamber members to learn about the many benefits of their membership and to network with other businesses within the community.

The South Georgia

Our Chamber goes above and beyond for your business!

The Chamber helps connect you with other busi-ness profession-als in our area. Leads groups meet weekly toexchange sales leads that allow members tobuild businessrelationships.

CHECK OUT

THE NEXT PAGES:

THE CHAMBER

HELPS CONNECT YOUR BUSINESS!



Chamber Choice Awards - Celebrating

Valdosta’s BEST!


aldosta’s business com-munity gathered in May for the 6th Annual Chamber Choice Awards spon-

sored by the State Farm Agents of Valdosta. The event spotlights the city’s best and brightest, with awards given in five categories: Small Business of the Year, Members’ Choice, Young Professional of the Year, Ambassador of the Year and the BIG Thinker. Music for the evening was provided by the tal-ented Backstreet Blazers, and event services were provided by EventPoint, The Flower Gallery and Fusion Creative Marketing.

Small Business of the Year: Bush Wealth Management

This award recognizes a local business with 100 or fewer employees that exemplifies a high level of business integrity and ethics, and is selected by an independent panel of community leaders. Bush Wealth Management, established in August 2004, offers a wide range of insurance, estate,

and wealth planning strategies. They pride themselves on going beyond the “sale” as they form personal relationships with each client. They are also involved in the community, donating time

to projects like Habitat for Humanity, and money to deserving stu-

dents through scholarship

programs. This year, the com-pany broke ground on a new loca-tion which will open in the fall of 2015. “With so many exceptional small busi-nesses in the Valdosta community, we are humbled that Bush Wealth Management was recognized as the Small Business of the Year. Without our clients, this would not be possible. We are so appreciative of the trust that they have placed in us. We do not take it lightly.”

Stacy Bush

V


Members’ Choice Award: South Georgia Medical Center

This award recognizes a business that excels in custom-er service as voted upon by Chamber member businesses. This year, 75 local businesses were nominated for the award, nearly 800 votes were cast and South Georgia Medical Center rose to the top. The growing healthcare enterprise, SGMC, consists of four hospitals that serve a large, diverse population. The healthcare enterprise is recognized locally, state and national level for exceptional patient care.

“On behalf of the Hospital Authority of Valdosta and Lowndes County, its medi-cal staff, employees and volunteers, we are pleased to be named the recipient of this year’s Chamber Members’ Choice Award for 2015. This truly is an honor to be recognized in this manner by our fellow Chamber members which dem-onstrates support and trust they have in South Georgia Medical Center. For that we are all truly humble and thankful.” Randy Sauls

Young Professional of the Year: Cindy Romero, Wild Adventures Theme Park

This award recognizes a young leader who has shown a quantifiable improvement to the bottom line of his/her employer. Voted on by a panel of business

leaders, Cindy Romero, Operations Manager at Wild Adventures Theme Park, was recognized as the 2015 win-ner. Cindy oversees more than 175 employees across multiple operat-ing divisions at Wild Adventures. She developed a benchmark that retains and rewards Wild Adventures’ high potential employees that was so suc-cessful, it was implemented at other park departments and divisions. She created Wild Adventures’ successful “Stay & Play” program and consistent-ly evaluates operations, finding ways to do more with less.

“I am very honored and humbled to be named Young Professional of the Year. It is most certainly an achievement that will remain very special to me. It is an honor I would like to see more young professionals in our community work toward and achieve.”

Cindy Romero

Ambassador of the Year: Jerry Kozuch, South Georgia Vein Center

This award recognizes the Chamber Ambassador who has earned the highest num-ber of points attributed to ribbon cut-tings, ground breakings, Leading Business of the Week presen-tations and other Chamber volunteer functions. Jerry Kozuch sets stan-dards high for what it means to be a Chamber Ambassador. Jerry has vol-unteered and assisted with more than 50 events in 2014. Twice named the Ambassador of the Quarter in 2014, Jerry is always a team player, making her a wonderful asset to the team of Ambassadors and the Chamber.

“I am so appreciative of being recog-nized as the Ambassador of the Year, and thankful that Dr. Greg Martin

allows me to participate as a Chamber Ambassador. I enjoy any chance to celebrate in the company of my family and friends, and this recognition was a fun one for me. I accept it on behalf of all of my fellow Ambassadors who work hard in this community.”

Jerry Kozuch

BIG Thinker Award: Quillian Powell, Quillian Powell Construction Company Inc.

This award recognizes an outstand-ing community member who has established his/her own business from the start of the venture and has made significant contribu-tions to the community in the wayof time, monetary donations, in-kind services, job creation, sales tax production or economic development initiatives. A leader in the community and a past chairman of the Chamber board, Quillian Powell is committed to mak-ing this community better. Powell started his career in construction when he was 20 and worked for 22 years before he branched out on his own. Quillian Powell Construction Company, Inc., was established in 1987.

“I began my career in construction working as a laborer by day and stu-dent by night. I’ve just always had a desire to be good at what I do and keep honesty and integrity at the heart of my business and personal life. I don’t seek out recognition, but this award from the Chamber really holds a special place for me. I feel truly blessed to be recognized as the 2015 BIG Thinker.”

Quillian Powell

Congratulations!


ogether with sponsors First State Bank & Trust Co, Fresh Beginnings and ELEAD1ONE, the Chamber

hosted another successful Winners in the Workplace breakfast in May. The event focuses on excellence in the workplace, recognizing four out-standing employees with a $1500 recognition check for their efforts.

Keynote speaker, Bob Ganzak, with the Dale Carnegie Institute of North

Florida delivered a strong keynote address about making a differ-ence.

“There’s no deny-ing that employee recognition is

worth the time and money spent on it,” said Bill Cowart, president of First State Bank and Trust Co. “Employee recognition is a tool that predictably makes employees not only feel good about the place that they work, but gives meaning to the job that they’re doing.”

Statistics from CareerBuilder.com show that organizations that offer at least one recognition program have a low turnover rate (0-5%), which leads to an increase in productivity, workplace knowledge, profits and employee attitudes. CareerBuilder.com also reported that the presence of a corporate incentive program motivated 66 percent of employees to stay at their job.“It’s so important – especially in today’s fast paced world – to take the

time to recognize our community’s most valuable assets, our employees,” said Judy Hathcock, owner of Fresh Beginnings/ELEAD1ONE and co-sponsor of the event. “We know that employee recognition is critical to the strength, reputation, and growth of any successful business.”

2015 WINNERS:Small Business Employee:Rene Carl, The Haven

Small Business Supervisor:Marilyn Orr, LODAC

Large Business Employee:Anthony Foster, South GeorgiaMedical Center

Large Business Supervisor:Susan Bowden, Hospice of South Georgia and the Langdale Hospice House

T

WINNERS IN THE WORKPLACERECOGNIZED


Rene CarlThe Haven

Marilyn OrrLODAC

Anthony FosterSouth Georgia Medical Center

Susan BowdenHospice of South Georgia and the Langdale Hospice House

2015 Sponsors:


HAPPY BIRTHDAY

E.R. BARBER

HOUSE!

he Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber has made the E.R. Barber House its home since

1981, welcoming more than 2,800 visi-tors, Chamber members and citizens through its doors each year. This year, the house celebrates its 100th birth-day.

The house was built in 1915 by E.R. Barber, a respected entrepreneur and inventor who was very involved in the local community. After he died in 1965, he left the house to his daugh-ter, Ola Barber Pittman, who occu-pied the property until her death in 1977. In her will, Pittman bequeathed the Barber House to the “citizens of Valdosta” with detailed instructions for the house to be a safe haven and place of security, relaxation and reflec-tion.

The home was placed on the Na-tional Register of Historic Places in 1980 following a two-year building renovation sparked by the Southwest Georgia Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. The renovation effort was made possible through the

generous efforts of local craftsmen and architects – including Richard Hill, Mac Tillman and Troy Snipes – who offered their services at little or no charge. Following the restoration, the Chamber moved into the Barber House with a 75-year lease for $1 per year, where it has remained for the past 34 years.

“The Barber House is not only home to the Chamber,” said Ron Borders (Real Living Realty Advisors), chairman of the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber Board of Directors. “Over the years, the Barber House has been home to a number of essential organizations in our community – organizations which were developed by this Chamber and have grown even stronger on their own.”

Such initiatives, including Leader-ship Lowndes, the Valdosta-Lowndes Development Authority,the Valdosta-Lowndes CountyConference Center & TourismAuthority, the Red Carpet Committee and the Lowndes County Bird Supper, continue to flourish and remain

positive and integral parts of thecommunity.

“We continue to incubate new initia-tives at the Chamber,” continued Borders. “We need to ensure thatprograms such as the SEEDS Center and our small business incubator have the resources needed to be success-ful. With strong community support,we can grow our local economy and invest for the next century.”

Investing for the next century is exactly what the Chamber is looking to do with an ambitious capital campaign.

The Barber House is much more than just a beautiful old building. It represents the past, present and future of this community, and serves as the front door and first impression many newcomers and visitors will have of Valdosta. And you only get one chance to make a legendary first impression.

Learn more about the history of the Barber House and how you can help restore this Valdosta treasure byvisiting www.ValdostaChamber.com.

E.R. Barber House Celebrates 100th Birthday


INVESTING FOR THE NEXT CENTURY:

TDon Pettigrew painting of the E.R. Barber House done in 1980.


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With rates lower than they have been in years - now is the time to buy that dream home or refi nance! CBCBank is ready for your mortgage application - anytime, anywhere. Apply online for a new mortgage or refi nance at www.cbcbank.com. Completed applications could result in pre-approval in just 60 seconds! Not ready to apply? On the website, you can also get pre-qualifi ed, calculate monthly payments & check daily rates.

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The Chamber works hard to promote your business, and our community.

PROMOTE “We offer extensive opportunities to expand your brand recognition. It’s marketing made easy!”

Our dedicated Chamber Ambassadors support local businesses by attending ribbon cuttings, ground breakings and renovation celebrations as pictured here.

For more information aboutour Ambassadors program visit ValdostaChamber.com/ambassadors.

Each year volunteers deliver more than 1200 packets to Chamber member busineses as part of Operation Thank You. This year’s sponsor was Colson Printing.


Each week, Chamber Ambassadors along with sponsor, South Georgia Vein Center, recognize a Leading Business of the Weekin our community.


The Chamber works hard to promote your business, and our community.

Our young professionals discussed the advantages of internships to students at Valdosta State University, explaining how experience provides a competitive edge for prospective job-seekers.

CHECK OUT

THE NEXT PAGES:

PROMOTING OUR MEMBERS!

State Farm Agents of Valdosta go on air with Scott James to promote the 2015 Chamber Choice Awards.

Whether it’s print, online or inperson, the Chamber works hardto promote your business in this community.

Media Cares sponsors like Fusion Creative Marketing help get our members in front of the camera.

For more information aboutour Media Cares program please contact Kelly Naranja at 229-247-8100 ext. 231 or visit online atValdostaChamber.com/mediacares.



As the SGMC enterprise continues to grow, so does its commitment to community health and wellness. Last year, SGMC contributed nearly $87 million to deliver valuable community

benefits throughout South Georgia and North Florida.

SGMC is the Region’s Premier Health System and destination for health care.

Growing Healthy TogetherTM

2015

*

Members’ChoiceAward

Recipient of the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce 2013 & 2015 Members’ Choice Award for customer service excellence.*

Community Building/Health Improvement$548,215

Health Professions Education/Recruitment$1,352,092

Financial/In-Kind Contributions$210,000

Indigent/Charity Care/Bad Debt$35,169,809Unpaid Cost of Medicaid/Medicare$44,549,405Investments in Technology/Facilities$4,970,285

South Georgia Medical Center | SGMC Smith Northview Campus SGMC Lanier Campus | SGMC Berrien Campus | Clinch Memorial Hospital

FY 2014 COMMUNITY BENEFITS

41

MetroOne’s 4 Under 40Honoring Our Young Leaders


etroOne’s 4 Under 40 program originally began as Emerging Leaders

back in 2009 as a way to recognize young leaders in the community who excelled both in and out of the work-place. Now known as MetroOne’s 4 Under 40 program, the recognition highlights young professionals (aged 21-40) who represent the best and brightest in business, government, nonprofits, education, politics, media, healthcare and the arts.

The ideal candidate for the 4 Under 40 award is someone who is suc-cessful in his or her profession and involved in the community beyond his or her job duties. This year’s win-ners were selected by the Greenville-Pitt Chamber of Commerce in Greenville, North Carolina and recog-nized at the 4 Under 40 event held at the Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts in May.

THE WINNERS ARE:Gerrell Aldridge: Gerrell has been described by his colleagues as the “team captain” of New Hire Solutions. He motivates and develops the talent and skill of each member of his team to drive their personal and profes-sional growth. Gerrell has been with New Hire Solutions since 2007, and has become an integral member of the organization’s leadership team. He vol-unteers in the community and proudly represents his company through his work as a Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber Ambassador. He is a leader that exudes a passion for people and life that is difficult to replicate.

Victoria Copeland: As Valdosta/Lowndes County’s 2014 Woman of the Year, Victoria continues to inspire women to step out on faith to reach their goals. She has helped inspire countless individuals both person-ally and professionally, and is the proud owner of her own business, ValdostaSOLD Real Estate Services. She has gone back to school sev-eral times to pursue her dreams. She serves as a volunteer at local schools and recently participated in the City’s Government 101 program, where she learned advocacy skills.

Ashleigh Kenny: Ashleigh is known as a bridge builder, knowing how to network and build relationships with key people and organizations in our community that are mutually beneficial. Outside of her work as a teacher at Hahira Middle School, she actively volunteers with the Children’s Advocacy Center and LAMP and is a graduate of Leadership Lowndes. She co-founded an organization called Y-LEAD - one of her proudest achieve-

ments - geared at molding students into strong, positive leaders. She is passionate about students and her community, and has raised thousands of dollars in our community to benefit children and people in need.

Justin Purvis: Justin’s dedication to excellence expands beyond his day job as an attorney at Young, Thagard, Hoffman, Smith, Lawrence, Shenton LLP. He currently serves as the Valdosta Bar Treasurer, volunteers with Habitat for Humanity and Relay for Life, and assists each year with the high school mock trial competition. He also is serving his second year as the State Attorney General’s City Representative for the Georgia Legal Food Frenzy, all while taking on a new role this year as a father. He attests that true leaders should be able to set examples both personally and profes-sionally, and in both circles, he is rec-ognized as a man of integrity.

For more information visitmetroonevaldosta.com

M

Pictured (L-R): Gerrell Aldridge (New Hire Solutions); Ashleigh Kenny (Hahira Middle School); Justin Purvis (Young, Thagard, Hoffman, Smith, Lawrence, Shenton, LLP); and Victoria Copeland (ValdostaSOLD Real Estate Services).


Direct Mail

Video

WebsitesWebsites

Billboards

DESIGN MEDIA

229.460.0479fusioncreativemarketing.com

STEVEN HEDDONFounder, A.L. Girardin Award Winnerand Creative Consultant for theValdosta Chamber of Commerce

ARTHUR MORINStrategist and Project Manager

BRANDING

Fusion can help you communicate with

websites, billboards, videos, advertising

campaigns and other marketing materials.

We create unique logos, graphics and visual

compositions that help you to stand out from

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De� ne your marketing strategy (audience,

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Colors have meaning. The colors in a brand should refl ect the message that is being conveyed.

Repetition of fonts, graphics and colors help to solidify a brand.

Photography and images throughout a brand should have a consistent look and feel.

Analysis – Customer Spending

4/4/2014 1

• The Client Customer population spends more on plants, outdoor furnishings and gardening supplies than the “general population”, as represented by the two Chamber samples.

• Clearly, Client attracts people who are “fanatical” about their gardens and are willing to spend a lot of discretionary income on them.

• Our analysis of annual purchasing by 567 Client loyalty card customers confirms this finding.

S

C

M

Analysis of Client Loyalty CustomersGEORGIA PHYSICIANS SOUTH visual identity guidelines

design elements

The use of an organic, curved

design element(s) for a soothing

feel. The design element(s) will be

repeated in all forms of branding

— from print, to outdoor signage,

to web.

The element may or may not be

pulled from the logo itself. The

design element will �ow with

the design instead of distracting

from it, making for a clean and

uncluttered brand.

CROWN GROUP

4 FINAL VERSION | APRIL 2015 | © 2015 FUSION CREATIVE MARKETING

LEE CONTAINER logo

16 LOGO FIRST PROOF | MAY 2015 | © 2015 FUSION CREATIVE MARKETING

9a

Fonts: ITC Caslon No 224 B Bold, Avenir Next Demi Bold, Avenir Next Regular

Logo #9a applies a new color scheme to

the logo on the previous page.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2015

10 | fusioncreativemarketing.com

photography and images

300 dpi.

LEE CONTAINER


color

Moving forward, the original yellow should be retained. It is a strong and noticeable color. In the future, it is recommended to use more yellow, grey and white in the designs, and less black.

A combination of yellow and a color from the warm side of the spectrum will work well with the proposed lifestyle photos. The photos themselves will serve as part of a designs color palette.

Quality…Your Way.Since 1989, Lee Container has been one of the premier blow molded container manufacturers creating bottling for crop protection, lubricants, pet care, beverages, household and specialty products. We proudly offer

custom design and color matching, label application, fluorination, as well as industry-standard stock designs using Post-Consumer Recyclable (PCR) materials to meet recycling programs. For more information, call us toll free,

or visit our website.

275 Chambers Blvd., Homerville GA 31634 800-887-3632 | www.LeeContainer.com

Direct Mail

Video

WebsitesWebsites

Billboards

DESIGN MEDIA




BRANDING











FUSION SERVICES

Branding

Marketing Strategy

Website Design

Video Production



Print/TV/Online Ads


Social Media

Public Relations






4/4/2014 1




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to web.






uncluttered brand.

CROWN GROUP


LEE CONTAINER logo


9a







300 dpi.

LEE CONTAINER


color







- THIS IS A PAID ADVERTISEMENT -


Direct Mail

Video

WebsitesWebsites

Billboards

DESIGN MEDIA




BRANDING











FUSION SERVICES

Branding

Marketing Strategy

Website Design

Video Production



Print/TV/Online Ads


Social Media

Public Relations






4/4/2014 1




S

C

M


design elements






to web.






uncluttered brand.

CROWN GROUP


LEE CONTAINER logo


9a







300 dpi.

LEE CONTAINER


color







Direct Mail

Video

WebsitesWebsites

Billboards

DESIGN MEDIA




BRANDING











FUSION SERVICES

Branding

Marketing Strategy

Website Design

Video Production



Print/TV/Online Ads


Social Media

Public Relations






4/4/2014 1




S

C

M


design elements






to web.






uncluttered brand.

CROWN GROUP


LEE CONTAINER logo


9a







300 dpi.

LEE CONTAINER


color







- THIS IS A PAID ADVERTISEMENT -

Founder, A.L. Girardin Award Winnerand Creative Consultant for theValdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce


Business After Hours offers our members a chance to kick back after work, socialize and network away from the pressures of the workplace. Held throughout the year, usually on a

Thursday afternoon from 5 to 7 p.m., Business After Hours offers sponsors a chance to promote their businesses and take their message to other Chamber members in a relaxed atmosphere.

Business After Hours spots are filling up fast for 2015!If you would like to host a Business After Hours event, contact Kelly Naranja at

229-247-8100 ext. 231 or [email protected].

Southwest Georgia Bank opened the doors of its new Commercial Banking Center for Chamber members on Dec. 4, 2014. More than 300 attendees got in the holiday spirit.

SOUTHWEST GEORGIA BANK


The St. Patrick’s Day event featured great food, live animals and the debut of Wild Adventures’ newest thrill ride, Jungle Rumble.

WILD ADVENTURES THEME PARK

On Jan. 8 Vallotton Construction opened The Cranford, Downtown Valdosta’s new-est luxury apartment homes. Guests enjoyed s’mores and more on the first floor, and tours of the renovated apartment homes above.

VALLOTTON CONSTRUCTION


THE HERNDONCOMPANY REAL ESTATE

1100 N. Patterson ST.Valdosta, GA 31601

“Serving Valdosta With

Over 50Years

Combined Experience”

1-800-647-3716 or 229-244-1992 • www.herndoncompanyrealestate.com

Commercial Department

Nicky Balanis Brian CooperJames Lee HerndonGRI, CCIM, CRB

AMERICA’S HOME PLACE AND GONDOLIER TRATTORIA & CAFE

Our May 21st Business After Hours was a joint event hosted by America’s Home Place and Gondolier Trattoria & Cafe. Guests enjoyed excellent Italian cuisine, learned how they could build their dream home and got to meet Georgia’s Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle. Donations were accepted for Red Nose Day.


SAVE 7.5%on Workers’ Compensation Insurance Premiums

DRUGS DON’T WORK is the statewide Drug-Free Workplace program established by the GeorgiaChamber of Commerce. DRUGS DON’T WORK exemplifies an effective public-private partnership in combating substance abuse in the workplace in Georgia.

Benefits of a Drug-Free Workplace:• 7.5% discount on workers’ compensation premiums • Reduced absenteeism• 300% decrease in medical costs • Increased productivity & higher morale among employees• Decrease in employee turnover• Cut workers’ comp. claims in half• Reduce theft and other forms of crime in the workplace

For complete information contact:Mike Stalvey 229-247-8100 ext. 227

or email: [email protected]

A regional partnership of the following Chambers of Commerce: Adel-Cook • Ashburn-Turner • Berrien County • Brunswick-Golden Isles Douglas-Coffee • Lakeland-Lanier • Moultrie-Colquitt • Quitman-Brooks • Sylvester-Worth County • Valdosta-Lowndes • Wayne County

Visit: www.ddwsoga.com

PrimeTime In Valdosta

As a follow up to the Chamber’s successful

membership drive last fall, we organized the first-ever PrimeTime in Valdosta event in June. Sponsored by Colony Bankof Valdosta, Chamber memberswho joined the Chamber in 2014 and2015 were invited to participate in this baseball-themed expo featuring games, prizes and plenty of networking opportunities. Attendees enjoyed ballpark snacks, a homerun derby contest for the kids, and a fun photo booth with baseball props. It was a wonderful event that took thetraditional tradeshow and turned it upside down!

Learn more about the event in the upcoming PrimeTime In Valdosta publication available in August!


SELECT GEORGIASM

GROWING OPPORTUNITY

Georgia is our home too. That’s why we’ve partnered with local chambers, development authorities and elected offi cials across the state to stimulate growth and invest in the future of our communities. And why, for almost 90 years, we’ve helped bring jobs and investment to the state – more than 121,000 jobs and $24 billion capital investment over the past decade alone.

[email protected] I SELECTGEORGIA.COM

SM

©2015 Georgia Power Company. All rights reserved.

Commercial Cleaning Industries has been in business since 2006 and has operated a full-service Janitorial firm in Valdosta since 2005.

ServICeS We offer: • Janitorial Services • VCT Maintenance • Carpet Cleaning • Natural Stone Care • Green Cleaniing

oWner: Carl Copeland229-253-2637 • 601A North Patterson StreetValdosta, GA 31601 • email: [email protected]

“We HelpYour Business

Succeed”

At ENT and Allergy Associates of SouthGeorgia, we offer a full array of specialtyservices for ear, nose, throat and allergy.

• hearing loss• sinus/allergy• ear infections

• sore throat• oral cancers• and more...

Doctors Hearing Center• current hearing aid technology• hearing evaluations• hearing aid services/repair

Doctor of Audiology,Jenny Carrol, Au.D.

2910 N. Patterson St.Valdosta, GA 31602

www.entofsouthgeorgia.comENT: 229.244.2562 • Hearing Center: 229.242.1111

917215

Redefining healthcare in South Georgiaone patient at a time!

IPG, Incorporated architects & planners807 Northwood Park Drive Valdosta, GA 31602 [email protected] | www.ipgarchitects.com

With each client served we strive to both uncover and tangibly represent the unique animus loci (the spirit of the place)

which makes each project distinctive from every other.


Special “Thanks” to ALL our major sponsors for our 2015 Chamber events and publications!

It’s not too early to make your reservation forour 2016 events!

For more information about events, sponsorship opportunities, or ticket information, please call Kelly Naranja at 229-247-8100 ext. 231 or visit www.ValdostaChamber.com.

Southwest GeorgiaBank Business

Plan Competition

Annual Membership Meeting/Progress

Prime TimeIn Valdosta

Winners In The Workplace

Chamber BusinessShowcase/Progress

AnnualEconomicSummit

LeadingBusiness ofthe Week

ChamberChoiceAwards

BusinessOutlookBreakfast

Building TheBest Board

MoodyLinkMagazine

ConnectionMagazine

DRUGS DON’TWORK

STAR Banquetand EAGLE

Awards

Media Sponsor:The Valdosta Daily Times

CHAMBER THANKS OUTSTANDING2015 SPONSORS

Thank You!

OperationThank You

50

ASTRO Exterminating Services, Inc. | Front & Back Cover

Page 26 & 27

Azalea City Entertainment DJs & Bands | Page 50

Bank of the Ozarks | Page 2

Blanton & Griffin Insurance Agency | Page 28

Carson McLane Funeral & Cremation Services | Page 17

Colquitt EMC | Page 47

Commercial Banking Company | Page 36

Commercial Cleaning Industries | Page 48

DDW/Peaceway CMS | Page 47

ENT Allergy & Associates of South Georgia | Page 48

First State Bank & Trust Co. | Page 28

Fowler, Holley, Rambo & Stalvey, P.C. | Page 28

Fusion Creative Marketing | Pages 42 & 43

Georgia Power | Page 48

H & S Supply Co., Inc. | Page 36

IPG, Incorporated | Page 48

Marketing Communications | Page 36

Miller Hardware Co.,/Seasons Garden & Home | Page 25

Music Funeral Home Services, Inc. | Page 23

New Hire Solutions, LLC | Page 50

Options Now | Page 50

Rainwater Conference Center | Page 3

South Georgia Medical Center | Page 40

South Georgia Travel | Page 28

South Georgia Vein Center | Page 29

Southwest Georgia Bank | Page 10

Studio 8 Design, LLC | Page 15

T-Mobile | Page 37

The Herndon Company | Page 46

The Residences at Five Points | Page 50

Tillman & Tillman, LLP | Page 19

U.S. Press | Inside Back Cover

Waller Heating & Air Conditioning Co. | Page 21

Watson’s Pools & Patios | Page 10

Wes Sewell Photography | Page 3

- Adver tisers -

Publisher: Myrna BallardEditor: Kelly Naranja

Creative Director & Advertising:Wanda Stanley

Chamber Creative Consultant for Progress:Steven Heddon (Fusion Creative Marketing)

- Printing -

174 Big Star Drive, Thomasville, GA 317572904-E North Paaerson Street, Valdosta, GA 31602


USPRESS.COM

You dream. We print.

Postcards ● Brochures ● Direct Mail ● Catalogs ● Booklets ● Presentation Folders Full Color Envelopes ● Door Knob Hangers ● Sell Sheets ● Note Cards

Greeting Cards ● Calendars ● Table Tents ● Banners ● Personalized Mail Business Cards ● Perfect Bound Books ● Yard Signs ● Point of Purchase Displays

229.244.56341628 James P. Rodgers Dr.

Valdosta, GA 31601

416 North Ashley St.Valdosta, GA 31601

YOUR exterminating experts!

1708 Gornto Road • Valdosta, GA 31601

(229) 244-6862www.astroexterminating.com

Since 1969, Astro Exterminating has been serving South Georgia. Built on customer satisfaction, Astro is a full service pest control company, offering today’s modern technology in pest and termite control. From interior to exterior, residential to commercial, Astro can handle all of your pest problems.

Call TODAY for a free estimate on all your pest control needs!

Documents

Progress 2015 Summer Issue