South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce - CHAMBER NEWS

Gulf Coast Eye Consultants Opens in Foley

Fri, 17 May 2013 15:57:38 GMT

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting and Open House for the new office of Gulf Coast Eye Consultants.

Dr. Gregory Joy, M.D., who recently relocated his Ophthalmology practice from the Syracuse, New York area, specializes in glaucoma treatment and cataract surgery.

On hand for the reception and tours of the new state of the art facility were South Baldwin Regional Medical Center staff employees, other healthcare professionals and South Baldwin Chamber representatives. Located in the Peachtree Professional Center at 1851 N. McKenzie Street, Ste. 106, Dr. Gregory Joy is accepting patients now by calling (251) 972 – 2020.

Portabella's Ribbon Cutting

Fri, 17 May 2013 15:39:48 GMT

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce recently held a ribbon-cutting for the opening of Portabella’s Restaurant located at 321 South McKenzie Street, next door to Foley Fish Market.

Owner and operator, Chuck Brasher, brings years of restaurant and food-service experience to the table by offering a wide range of menu selections, such as signature salads, fresh baked pizza, hot sandwiches and specialty pasta entrees. From appetizers to desserts, special attention is paid to service and quality of your meal. Lunch, Dinner and takeout options are available by visiting them in downtown Foley, Monday through Thursday 10:30 a.m. till 8:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10:30 a.m. till 9:00 p.m. or call (251) 943 – 7773 to place orders. Like them on Facebook for menu and daily specials. Catering is also available.

Front row, L – R: Sheila Burkhardt, Diplomat; Camille Mosher, Diplomat; Jeanie Irwin; Chuck Brasher, Amye Brasher, Aven Brasher, Owen Brasher, Christi Koehle, Chamber Chairman.

Back Row, L – R: Tom DeBell, Chamber Board; Jim Griffiths, Diplomat; Renee James, Diplomat; Mary Kelley, Diplomat; Traci Jarvis, Diplomat.

Heritage Antique Mall Grand Opening

Mon, 13 May 2013 20:15:43 GMT

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting for the Grand Opening of Heritage Antique Mall located at 802 S. McKenzie Street.

Home to over 60 antique and vintage-style collectible vendors, the new mall is owned and operated by Luke and Jen DeMay. Vendors can rent assigned individual spaces on a monthly basis and offer a variety of antique furniture, out of print and first edition books, magazines, stamps, coins, vintage music, and jewelry, one of a kind décor, design accessories and much more. Consignment space is also available for antiques and collectibles.

Located in Foley’s Irwin Square, next door to Connie's Reruns and Family Dollar, the public is welcome to shop Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. till 6 p.m. Please call (251) 943 – 6979 or visit www.foleyantiques.com for more information.

Country Place Senior Living of Foley

Thu, 09 May 2013 16:22:53 GMT

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce recently held a ribbon-cutting for the Grand Opening of County Place Senior Living of Foley. Flanked by assisted living staff members and providers, community leaders, federal and state legislative staff members, Baldwin Chamber of Commerce representatives, members of the Foley community at large, and many others, Country Place Senior Living Founder Jack West, and Administrator Kathy Parker officially opened on May 2, 2013. The residence, located at 615 E. Laurel Avenue in Foley, Alabama, is Assisted Living at Its Finest.

This project was developed by CP Homes, an international developer based in Dallas, TX. They currently have plans to construct over 100 similar residences in Alabama, Texas and Tennessee. The total investment across the three states represents more than $300 million. “The rapid growth of baby boomers creates a unique opportunity to provide quality senior care to this segment of the population,” says President Ted Good.

Country Place Senior Living offers a boutique style of assisted living while providing top quality service. Founder Jack West describes the Foley location as “…the primary training facility for our staff to be developed to go into other parts of the state.” Country Place Administrator Kathy Parker added “seniors are such a wonderfully vital and important part of our community and heritage. We should always be advancing the overall health and well-being they receive which is exactly the mission of Country Place Senior Living of Foley.”

Resident services at Country Place Senior Living of Foley include: nutritionally-balanced, home cooked meals served daily in our dining room; licensed nurse on call 24/7; emergency response system; weekly housekeeping service; weekly personal laundry service; life enrichment programs including social, cultural, spiritual and recreational activities. For more information about Country Place Senior Living of Foley, contact Kathy Parker, Administrator, at 251/943-4412. www.countryplace-foley.com

Pictured in Photo: Front Row, L – R: Christi Koehle, Flossy Kennedy, Kathy Parker, Kathleen Hayles, Susie Klein, Barbara Robinson, Sheila Burkhardt

2^nd row: Wayne Foster, Joyce Kiskadden, Molly Blount, Ruth Blount, Leslie Costigan, Phyllis Snyder, Jeanie Irwin.

3^rd row: Glenn Manning, Ray Belew, Karen Foster, Tom Knighten, Jim Griffiths, Matt Fetner.

Alabama Festival of Flavor Announces Festival Relocation To Historic Downtown Foley

Tue, 07 May 2013 16:07:52 GMT

The 2^nd Annual Alabama Festival of Flavor, produced by the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, is set for Saturday, October 19th. The Alabama Festival of Flavor was created to showcase the state's unique culture and rich history by promoting and celebrating local foods of Alabama.

In 2012, the Chamber held the inaugural festival at Foley’s Heritage Park as thousands of guests sampled a variety of delicious local recipes, learned about basic gardening techniques and enjoyed a wide variety of local musicians. Even though the festival is only one year old, it has garnered statewide attention being named one of the “50 Can’t-Miss Alabama Food Festivals” by the Alabama Tourism Department.

The Chamber felt there was a gap between the location of the festival and the ability for the local business community to capitalize on the thousands of festival goers visiting the venue. The Chamber proposed relocation of the festival from Foley’s Heritage Park to the streets of downtown Foley during the May 6^th Foley City Council Meeting. The proposal was unanimously approved by the City Council and plans are in progress to begin moving forward with the 2013 Alabama Festival of Flavor relocation.

“While the inaugural Alabama Festival of Flavor experienced tremendous success in its location at the Heritage Park,” says Donna Watts, President/CEO of South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, “we see a fabulous opportunity to showcase Historic Downtown Foley by relocating the festival into the actual streets of the City.”

Watts goes on to say, “The City of Foley has invested millions of dollars into the redevelopment of Downtown Foley. Moving the Alabama Festival of Flavor makes sense and allows guests to experience the quaint charm of this area.”

Visitors to the Alabama Festival of Flavor have the opportunity to enjoy a diverse range of interactive and educational epicurean experiences including learning how to plant your own home garden, preparing meals using fresh Gulf seafood, or creating delicious dishes with locally grown produce. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy a variety local musicians and performers or stroll through the streets of Historic Downtown Foley and enjoy the festival’s market featuring, unique artisans and crafters

Make your plans to attend the Alabama Festival of Flavor, Saturday, October 19^th in Historic Downtown Foley. For more festival information visit, www.alabamafestivalofflavor.com, find us on Facebook or contact the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce at 251-943-3291.

South Baldwin Diplomats receive CPR & First Aid training from the Foley Fire and Rescue Department

Tue, 07 May 2013 14:21:23 GMT

The Foley Fire and Rescue Department hosted seven South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Diplomats and the Chamber’s Development & Finance Manager at their facilities on April 30. The Fire and Rescue Department are professionals committed to saving lives and property, and improving quality of life through education and training. The training was conducted by Mr. Stoney Weaver, Fire Fighter for the Fire and Rescue Department.

The group was greeted in the training room with coffee and doughnuts. After introductions Mr. Weaver provided instructions for basic adult life support. Mr. Weaver clearly demonstrated each step in administering CPR to a victim that has stopped breathing. Mr. Weaver emphasized that although the ABC (Airway, Breath, Circulation) approach has been used in the past students are now trained to use the CAB approach. Each diplomat performed CPR on training dummies used by the Fire and Rescue Department.

Next Mr. Weaver trained the diplomats on first aid for a variety of different injuries including severe bleeding, minor burns, head injuries, heatstroke, dislocations, fractures, poisoning, shock and stroke. Mr. Weaver was careful to explain that it is necessary to tell the victims who you are and ask if they would like your help. Mr. Weaver went over the symptoms for specific types of injuries and the nature and cause of such injuries. He explained that the first step is always the same: call 911 and give the operator the information they need. For bleeding apply direct pressure to the wound using gauze, a clean cloth or a piece of clothing. For severe fractures, he explained, apply ice packs to reduce swelling and alleviate pain until emergency personnel arrive. If possible, splint the injury but do not force any bones back into place.

Mr. Weaver provided guidance to the diplomats for aiding a victim with an obstruction in his airway. He showed the diplomats proper technique for administering the maneuver formerly known as the Heimlich maneuver. He also provided guidance for aiding a baby or child with an obstruction in his airway.

After the training the group was given a tour of the facilities. A highlight of the tour was when the siren rang and the group was able to see the fire fighters suit up and leave for an emergency. Mr. Weaver showed the diplomats each of the different fire engines and explained the use of each. He then showed the attendees the offices within the fire station and the living quarters of the fire fighters.

To wrap up the tour Mr. Weaver stressed the importance of judgment in many situations faced by fire fighters. He emphasized that sometimes two professionals will see a situation differently and it is important that each fire fighter use his judgment when assessing a life or death situation. Fire fighters are frequently put in critical situations where the choices they make may have absolute consequences. The overall impression of the training and tour for the attendees was that of gratefulness; not only for taking the time to provide training but also for risking their lives day in and day out for the benefit of the community.

The Diplomat program is a key element of the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce interface and interaction with its members. Persons interested in joining the Diplomat Program may contact Cindy Higginbotham at 943-5510. Special thanks to Will Rice for submitting this article on our behalf.

Photo (L-R): Dale Sommerfeld, Past-Chair; Darlene Staimpel, Fortis College; Traci Jarvis, Citizens’ Bank; Christina Weaver, State Farm Frances Holk Jones Insurance Co.; Stoney Weaver, Foley Fire Department; Ray Belew, The Master’s Butler; Renee James, Insurance Specialist and Will Rice, Hartmann, Blackmon & Kilgore, PC.

Frances Holk-Jones State Farm Insurance Named Business of the Month

Mon, 06 May 2013 14:12:01 GMT

Frances Holk-Jones / State Farm has been named by the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce as their Business of the Month for May.

Fourth generation State Farm agent, Frances Holk-Jones, continues the legacy of her family’s 1921 Baldwin County business based on the principles of service and integrity. The Frances Holk-Jones Team utilizes its 141 cumulative years of expertise to meet the individual needs of each client. Their mission is to provide superior knowledge and guidance to help you build a strong financial future while protecting you, your family, and your business with the highest quality insurance services.

Frances Holk-Jones is a lifelong resident of Baldwin County and is personally committed to giving back to her community. She has been actively involved with many community, civic, and nonprofit organizations such as the Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation, CARE House, Impact 100, Coastal Art Center of Orange Beach, United Way of South Alabama, American Heart Association, Foley Rotary Club and the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, to name a few. Frances Holk-Jones has received multiple awards for her community involvement including the Ralph Schumacher Outstanding Community Service Award, Philanthropist of the Year Award by the Association of Fundraising Professionals, and is recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow by Rotary International. The Frances Holk-Jones / State Farm team is committed to teen driver safety and stays actively involved in the local high schools teaching the consequences of distracted & impaired driving.

Be sure to visit their office at 315 East Laurel Avenue in downtown Foley, give them a call at 251-943-5031, or visit them on the web at www.FrancesHolkJones.com for all of your insurance and financial service needs. The Frances Holk-Jones / State Farm team will lend expert service while helping you protect the things that matter most. Frances Holk –Jones / State Farm is your “hometown agent” where expert service always comes standard.

Pictured in Photo: Front Row, L – R: Christina Weaver, Patti Coggins, Carl Jones, Frances Holk-Jones, Brenda Head, and Marqulia Dean
Back Row, L – R: Dale Sommerfeld, Renee James, Millie Shamburger, Heather Shaeffer, Carol McCracken, Amy Osborn, and Patsy Dyer, Durk Johnson, Ray Belew.

2013 Academic Banquet Honors Top Students

Thu, 02 May 2013 20:48:54 GMT

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce hosted its 55th Annual Academic Banquet to honor the top academic students from Foley High School and the Teacher of the Year. Students must have maintained a 3.7 GPA in the highest level of courses offered and qualify for the highest level diploma, college preparatory with distinction endorsement.

The honorees were recognized at a dinner at the First Baptist Church Christian Life Center in Foley. Presenting Sponsor for the event was Centennial Bank. Diamond Sponsors included Riviera Utilities, Safety Coatings, Inc., and Vulcan, Inc.

The top graduates for the graduating Class of 2013 include, pictured front row left to right: Mattie Brumfield, Jack Sims, Rachel Pigott, Kevin Pham, Shelley Young, Leigh Ashton Watson, Brittany Lassiter, McKenzie Morris, Alex Muth, and Calvin Muth.

Foley High School’s Teacher of the Year was also honored. Scott Kinnon is pictured with Principal Russ Moore and South Baldwin Chamber Chairman, Christi Koehle.

The South Baldwin Chamber would like to congratulate all honorees and wish them the very best in their future endeavors.

Shrimp Basket of Foley Holds Grand Reopening

Thu, 02 May 2013 02:08:34 GMT

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting for Shrimp Basket of Foley to celebrate their grand reopening for remodeling and expansion. After opening their eighteenth location in Auburn, Alabama, Shrimp Basket has taken a slight break in new development to focus on upgrades and re-models in their other stores. Foley was lucky enough to be completely remodeled virtually overnight.

The building was previously used as Katie's BBQ before entrepreneurs Eddie Spence and David Cahoon purchased it in 2003. Hurricane Ivan hit the Gulf Coast less than one year after the Grand Opening, damaging many local businesses. Ten years later, the building has been gutted and completely reconstructed on the interior. The total process took approximately a full month from close in the evenings until open the following mornings. The remodel included all new tile floors, renovated ceiling, a recondition bar and bar area with wooden walls, revamped kitchen area, and new furnishings and decor. The Shrimp Basket of Foley is located at 1500 South McKenzie Street and is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, serving traditional seafood dishes of the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Shrimp Basket will host their first annual Shrimp Basket Giving Run on June 8, 2013 in Gulf Shores, Ala., to raise funds for the Shrimp Basket Giving fund. The event will consist of a 5K race down West Beach Boulevard starting at the Shrimp Basket in Gulf Shores and ending at the Steamer and Baked Oyster Bar, a sister restaurant. A one mile fun run will also take place.

Registration is $30 for the 5K race and $15 for the one mile fun run. However, racers registering early can do so at www.shrimpbasket.com by clicking on the "Register Now!" button or www.active.com/running/gulf-shores-al/shrimp-basket-giving-run-2013 for a discounted price of $25 and $10 before June 1, 2013. Registration includes a specialty designed race t-shirt, a gift card, unlimited water and PowerAde, a boxed lunch and 2 beers per adult.

Sign-in and registration begins at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday June 8, 2013, at Shrimpy's Mini Golf. The 5K race will begin at 8:30 a.m. A one mile fun run that runs part of the same route will start at 9:30 a.m. Awards and door prizes will be presented immediately following the races. All proceeds will directly benefit the Shrimp Basket Giving fund. One of the missions of the Shrimp Basket Giving fund is to begin to provide a scholarship that will enable a high school graduate from South Baldwin County to meet any financial needs to attend Faulkner State Community College. Candidates for the scholarship must express a desire to use their abilities to further the economic development of South Baldwin County.

Pictured in Photo: Front Row, L – R: Crystal Leblanc, Fabia Waters, Casey Richardson, Chandi Robertson, (Shrimp Basket employees) Jeanie Irwin, Sheila Burkhardt, Tom DeBell
Back Row, L – R: Dale Sommerfeld, Rich Caldwell, Renee James, Will Rice, Traci Jarvis, Mike Norden, Ray Belew, Matt Fetner.

Camille Mosher named Diplomat of the Month

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 02:57:50 GMT

Camille Mosher, Vice President and Business Services Officer for Branch Bank & Trust, was named South Baldwin Chamber Diplomat of the Month for March 2013.

Mosher began serving as a Diplomat in January 2012 and has actively participated in the program by volunteering for Ribbon Cuttings, Leadership Luncheons and Special Events, including the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival, Barbeque and Blues, and the Magnolia Run. “Volunteering has always been important to me and I believe supporting Chamber events, through volunteer efforts, makes our community a better place.” Mosher joined Branch Bank & Trust in August, 2011, with over 20 years of experience in the banking industry as a commercial lender. “My involvement in the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce and more specifically, the Diplomat Program has given me the opportunity to meet with Business and Community Leaders more readily, had I not been involved, which is key to my business on the commercial side of the bank.” In addition to serving as a Diplomat, Mosher is a member of the Foley Rotary Club, where she is a Board member and Interact Sponsor.

Being a Diplomat is a tremendous opportunity to volunteer your time, get to know your business community and promote your business while representing the chamber. If you are interested in becoming a Diplomat for the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce please contact Cindy Higginbotham at 251-943-5510. Special thanks to our sponsor, Starr Textile Services.

Welcome to the Gulf Adventure Center!

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:20:19 GMT

The Gulf Adventure Center at Gulf State Park is home to many exciting outdoor activities – kayaking and paddle boarding on beautiful Lake Shelby as well as hiking and eco-tours of the park – but nothing compares to the thrill of the Hummingbird Ziplines, located between Gulf Shores and Orange Beach at 21101 State Hwy 135 at Gulf State Park.

Unlike traditional ziplines with trees and canopy settings, Hummingbird Ziplines at the Adventure Center allows visitors to zip over land, sand and sea alike. With 7 towers and 6 ziplines over the length of one mile, the course takes you as high as 90 feet off the ground. Imagine zipping over the white sand dunes, treetops, and lake waters of the Gulf State Park. The Hummingbird Ziplines offers plenty of outdoor thrills, chills and adrenaline rushes, but there’s more. You’ll also experience personal growth and a sense of camaraderie and accomplishment. It all adds up to an unforgettable outdoor adventure that’s guaranteed to bring friends, families and co-workers closer together. For more information and reservations, visit gulfadventurecenter.com or call (251) 948-9494 or (877) ZIPTHEGULF. Also, like them on Facebook.com/GulfAdventureCenter.

Pictured in Photo: Owners, Tom Schlinkert and JT Lemons; Curtis Jones, AL Deputy Commissioner of Conservation & Natural Resources; Greg Lein, Director of AL State Parks; Gulf State Park employees; Gulf Shores & Orange Beach officials, and representatives of the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce.

Springtime Events Bring Visitors and Locals Out

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 18:57:12 GMT

The South Baldwin communities are filled with hustle and bustle this time of year. The weather is great, and everyone wants to be out in it! There are several events that will help you get your outdoor fix and support our local business community as well.

Coming May 11 and 12, the Performing Arts Association of Foley will hold the 41st Art in the Park in John B. Foley Park. The show continues to be named one of the state’s Top 10 Events for the month of May by the Alabama Bureau of Tourism and Travel. Come out to see more than 100 artists display original works of art. Artwork by local school students will also be on display. In addition, there will be live entertainment, children’s activities, face painting and food vendors. It’s a great way to spend a few hours or an entire day during Mother’s Day weekend!

Just a month after Art in the Park is the annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival, held Father’s Day weekend, June 14 to 16. Admission to the festival is free and there will be plenty of great, live entertainment and activities throughout the event.

These events are another example of how we can support our local businesses and promote the South Baldwin area. We hope to see you there!

G.H. Financial Services Relocates

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 22:11:43 GMT

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce recently held a ribbon-cutting to celebrate the new location of G.H. Financial Services, LLC at 1544 West 2nd St., Suite 110, in Gulf Shores. George Harris, Jr, a Certified Financial Planner ™, is the principal of G.H. Financial Services. George is joined by Kristi Harris, his bride of 26 years and office manager; Whitney Harris, his marketing/communications director and daughter; Jimmy Ryall, disability insurance and Medicare specialist, as well as friends, family, and South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Diplomats and Board Members.

George and G.H. Financial Services, LLC are also celebrating 26 years in business this year and are proud to offer a full line of Financial Planning and Insurance Services including group and individual health insurance, Medicare policies, wealth management and 401k reviews. George and the entire staff invite you to come by and visit the new office. You may reach G.H. Financial Services, LLC at 251-968-1234, or visit the website at www.georgeharrisfinancial.com.

Pictured in photo: Front Row L – R: Dale Sommerfeld, Christi Koehle, Hunter McClure, Jimmy Ryall, George Harris, Kristi Harris, Whitney Harris, Jeanie Irwin. Back Row: Karen Still, Tom DeBell, Ray Belew, Matt Fetner, Linda Spangrud, Wade Bradford, Jim Griffiths, Geoff Gaberino, Joey Parker.

Havron Endodontics

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 18:16:28 GMT

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce recently held a ribbon-cutting and Open House for Havron Endodontics, P.C. located at 8154 Hwy. 59, Suite 203.

Located in Mid Point Plaza just south of Foley, Dr. Jess Havron recently opened the first endodontic practice in the Foley area. Dr. Havron specializes in root canal procedures and the office features state of the art equipment with a caring and friendly staff. To learn more about services or to schedule a consultation, call (251) 923 – 4445.

Front Row: Renee James, Walter Brand, Jr., Amy Palmer, Dr. Jo Ellen Havron, Dr. Jess Havron, Erin Millican, Mary Kelley, Christi Koehle.

Back Row: Chris Boswell, Matt Fetner, Dr. Kathyrn Fetner, JoyceWeaver, Joe Weaver, Shorty Madden, Jolene Madden, Linda Spangrud, Tom DeBell, Dale Sommerfeld

Help Take the Balloon Fest to New Heights

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 15:58:29 GMT

Did you know the 9th Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival is only two months away? Slated June 14 and 15 at Foley’s Sportspark on Highway 98 west, the annual event will bring thousands of visitors to the South Baldwin area.

Visitors come from far and near to watch the balloon glow and to enjoy the fun, free entertainment. This is our chance to shine and introduce those passing through on vacations to a bit of Southern hospitality and all the South Baldwin area has to offer.

Help your fellow Chamber members make 2013 the biggest and best Balloon Fest yet! This event takes hundreds of volunteers like you to pull it off. We need your time and your talents. The shifts are short, so there will be plenty of time to enjoy the festival with your friends and family. Whether you are a people person or a behind-the-scenes person, there is a job for you! Register online for the day, time and station that most interests you. It’s as easy as point and click! For more information on volunteering call Laura Giggy at 251-943-1036.

Ray Belew named Diplomat of the Month

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 17:19:43 GMT

Ray Belew, Owner of The Master’s Butler and Concierge Service LLC, was named the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Diplomat of the Month for February.

Belew began serving as a Diplomat in March, 2008. He served on the Chamber Board of Directors over the last 3 years, and has recently returned to the Diplomat program. He also serves as Sunday School Director at First Baptist Church of Gulf Shores. His wife Sharon is a native of Elberta. He has been a resident of Foley since moving to the area from Arkansas in 2006.

Belew attributes the rapid acceptance of him and growth of The Master’s Butler in the local community is from His trust in God’s principles to bless his business and an active participation in the South Baldwin Chamber as a volunteer.

Being a Diplomat is a tremendous opportunity to volunteer your time, get to know your business community and promote your business while representing the Chamber. If you are interested in becoming a Diplomat for the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, please contact Cindy Higginbotham at 251-943-5510. Special thanks to our sponsor, Starr Textile Services.

Fix4myphone Grand Opening

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 17:10:17 GMT

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce recently held a ribbon-cutting for Fix4myPhone located at 319 N. McKenzie Street in Foley. Fix4myPhone are experts in repairs for smartphones and tablets even offering same-day iPhone, iPod, and iPad repairs. Most of these can be handled on the spot while you wait by the military trained and micro-miniature electronics certified “iDoctor”, Curtis Childress. At Fix4myPhone no repair is too big or small. Curtis has successfully operated on phones that have been dropped, flooded, burned, and even crushed by automobiles.

Fix4myPhone takes pride in also being able to offer the absolute best in everything wireless from pay-as-you-go plans to the best and most popular accessories. Their lineup consists of all of the big names and even some you may not have heard of just yet. These guys are on top of it when it comes to your phone, tablet, or other device.

At Fix4myPhone they understand that your phone has become one of the most essential ways for you to stay connected with the world. That is why they offer a broad range of services and get everything handled in a timely and professional manner. There is always a full stock of inventory for iPhone, iPod, and iPad and can get the necessary parts for others in just a couple of days.

Stop by and meet the friendly and professional staff sometime if only to say hello, or to browse the huge lineup of accessories. Their hours of operation are M-F from 9-7 and Sat 10-5. Check them out on the web at www. Fix4myphone.com or check out the facebook page at facebook.com/fix4myphone.

Present in Photo: Front row: Co – owners; Curt Childress, Jennifer Childress, Eric Dolbear, Jessica Dolbear; Sheila Burkhardt, Chamber Diplomat. Back row: Dale Sommerfeld, Chamber Diplomat; Tom DeBell, Chamber Board; Durk Johnson, Chamber Diplomat; Christi Koehle, Chamber Chairman of Board; Mary Kelley, Chamber Diplomat; Jeanie Irwin, Chamber BRT.

Business of the Month April 2013

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 16:51:39 GMT

South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce

Business of the Month – April 2013

Gulf Coast Occupational, Sports and Pain Medicine in Foley is South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Business of the Month for April 2013. Gulf Coast Occupational, Sports and Pain Medicine offers a comprehensive array of industrial health services and programs to meet the needs of each company. Gulf Coast Occupational, Sports and Pain Medicine also offers a Sports Medicine Clinic to focus on the diagnosis and treatment of sports injuries, sports injury prevention and sports training and athletic performance. The Pain Management Clinic offers treatment specifically directed at the different components of an individual’s pain and by helping them develop and meet reasonable functional goals. Dr. Ron Lee and Heather Steigerwald, CRNP offer board-certified care. To schedule an appointment, call (251) 923-2050 or stop by their office at 1615 North Alston Street, Foley, AL.

Pictured from left: (Front Row) Keith Newton; SBRMC CEO, Heather Steigerwald; CRNP, Dr. Ron Lee, Lisa Stowe, Director of Physician Practice Operations, Sandra Gutierrez, (Back Row) Daniel McKinney; SBRMC ACEO, Kim Neal; SBRMC Director of Marketing & Provider Relations, Brittany Graham, Melanie Staub; Outlying Clinics Supervisor, Marsha Joellenbeck.

Community Hospice of Baldwin County Relocates Office

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 02:02:37 GMT

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce and Alabama Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce recently held a Ribbon Cutting ceremony and Open House for the relocation of Community Hospice of Baldwin County in Foley.

Community Hospice moved from their office located on 2770 S. McKenzie Street to 1320 North McKenzie Street in the Professional Center. Community Hospice is a locally owned not-for-profit hospice agency providing compassionate community-based home care to patients and families facing a life threatening illness in Baldwin, Escambia, and Mobile Counties since 1996.

For more information on services, eligibility, events, or volunteering, call (251)-943–5015 or visit www.comhospice.com

Studio Lush Hair Salon Grand Opening

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 15:32:41 GMT

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce held a Ribbon-Cutting for Studio Lush Hair Salon located at 818 N. McKenzie St. in the Front Area of the Woerner Companies building on North Hwy 59 in Foley, AL.

The salon was recently opened on February 19, 2013 by owner, Sarah Woerner, who has been well-educated in hair color, and hair design. A huge transformation has been made from the typical Christmas Retail store, most of you may remember of, into a modern, classy hair salon. The salon features four stylist’s chairs, and two shampoo stations, with plenty of space for Studio Lush to potentially expand. The salon offers any of your hair coloring, hair design/styling, and waxing needs. On their retail shelves, the salon is carrying two newly launched hair product lines released on the market. The Colorproof product line is specifically targeted for Color-treated clients, while the Indie Hair products are their newest and trendiest hair products for any hair type.

Right now, Studio Lush has two other hair stylists working as a team with the owner. Stylist, Krystal Sharp has over 10 years of experience in the hair industry and Stylist, Pam Moreno has over 20 years of experience in the industry. Their ability to perform some of the latest trends allows them to offer each guest a detailed consultation and offer suggestions that ultimately result in a style that best provides the look the client had originally visualized.

Hours of Operation are Tuesday through Saturday. Walk-ins are always Welcome! Feel free to check out the Studio Lush Facebook page to catch up on and take advantage of all the great promotions being offered throughout the month! Also, check them out on Twitter to follow the monthly specials! To set up an appointment with any of the stylists at Studio Lush, contact them at 251-952-LUSH (5874).

Photo (Left to Right) of My Guests: Dale Sommerfeld, Rose Ervin, Camille Mosher, Sarah Woerner (owner), Christopher Birge, Gale Woerner, Pam Moreno, Krystal Sharp, Jeanie Irwin, Chasity Carmichael, Renee James, Sheila Burkhardt

Back Row: Tyler Higginbotham, Tom DeBell, Matt Fetner, Marcia Rohe (holding Levi Rohe), Christopher Birge, Tom Knighten, Ginny Blackmon, Larry Blackmon, Durk Johnson, Tammy Hughes

On Your Mark, Get Set, GO! The Magnolia Run is Almost Here!

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 15:55:12 GMT

On Your Mark, Get Set, GO! The Magnolia Run is Almost Here!

It’s time to dust off your running shoes for the annual Magnolia Run slated April 6 at 8 a.m. Held in scenic Magnolia Springs and organized by the South Baldwin Chamber, 2013 marks the 10^th anniversary that runners and supporters have trekked through the oak-lined streets of this quaint town.

In 2012, more than 300 runners participated in the run and this year promises to be even better. Local schools get an added perk when their students participate and represent their school. A portion of each student’s registration fee will go to their school.

The post-race party includes music, food, beverages and door prizes, all at the hub of the race, Jesse’s Restaurant on Oak Street.

You can register for the race online on the South Baldwin Chamber website. There will be a 5K run, 5K race-walk and a 1-mile fun run. Pre-registered runners can pick up their packet at the Chamber office on April 5 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. We will see you there!

FOLEY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS PITCH TO LOCAL INVESTORS

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 17:20:43 GMT

FOLEY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS PITCH TO LOCAL INVESTORS

- Young Entrepreneurs from Foley High School Obtain Funding to Launch Enterprises –

WHAT: Six students, ages 14 to 19, from the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) at Foley High School pitch their business plans to prominent local members of the business community, during the program’s YEA! Investor Panel Event. Based on the appeal and merit of the student’s plans and presentations, investors will determine the amount of funds to allocate to each business. Event is free and open to the public.

WHEN: Thursday, April 4, 2013 6-8pm

WHERE: Foley Civic Center

WHO: - Donna Watts, President/CEO, South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce and master of ceremonies for the event.

- Rick Miller, Executive Director, Business Support Center, YEA! Instructor

- Investor Panel comprised of prominent local businesspeople.

WHY: Students present their business ventures for the first time and compete for funding that will enable them to get their ideas off the ground and running!

About the Young Entrepreneurs Academy

The Young Entrepreneurs Academy, or YEA!Ô, is a groundbreaking educational program that takes students in grades nine through twelve through the process of starting and running real businesses over the course of a full academic year. Students work in close cooperation with local leaders of industry, community members, and educators to develop ideas and objectives, write business plans, pitch potential investors, obtain funding, register with governmental agencies, develop their brand identity and much more! By the end of the class, students own and operate fully functioning businesses that can be carried on after graduation. Students learn to make a job--not just take a job! YEA!’sÔ direct mission is to help students embrace their passion, energy, creativity and talents, launch a venture, and view entrepreneurship as synonymous with success and freedom. In 2008, YEA!Ô “spun-off” from the University of Rochester, where it was formed in 2004 with support from the Kauffman Foundation, to create its own not-for-profit corporation, YEA! Inc., which is currently launching sites in colleges, universities and high schools across the country to provide comprehensive, exciting entrepreneurship education, leadership development and innovation training to youth between the ages of 11 and 18 years old in the United States thereby making the program available to students at a variety of geographical regions, and providing them with skills they need to succeed in the 21^st Century. For more information about the Young Entrepreneurs Academy, please call 585.272.3535 or visit www.yeausa.org

SBCA Ribbon Cutting

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 22:42:30 GMT

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce and Alabama Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed The South Baldwin Christian Academy (SBCA) with a joint ribbon-cutting on the school grounds located at 6900 Highway 59 in Gulf Shores. The school also recognized and thanked Gaylon and Susan McCollough for their special donations with a plaque.

SBCA followed the ribbon-cutting date with a free four-hour, fun-filled event held on March 16 which featured games, inflatables, a silent auction, dance groups, martial arts, a plant sale and yard sale. Hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza, drinks and snacks were sold as the event was a fundraiser for the new school and a family fun day for the community. Headmaster Dawn Cranston said about 15 to 20 SBCA staff, students and volunteers helped organize the event which drew about 400 people.

“The support from the community was amazing. The turnout for the yard sale exceeded our expectations,” added SBCA volunteer Joanna Mayes, whose children attend the Christian school. “The students enjoyed helping with the set up and cleanup of Spring Fling. I think this was a great event for them because it instills a work ethic.” She added that students were also reminded about giving back to the community because remaining items from the Spring Fling were donated to area charities. Cranston added that the SBCA has more activities scheduled including a golf tournament on April 19 at the Gulf Shores Golf Club. Tee time is 1:30 p.m. and registration is $75 a player with four players to a team. The school is seeking hole sponsors and silent auction donations.

SBCA provides a Christian education with academic excellence in a safe environment to the children and parents in Foley, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and surrounding coastal areas. Located at 6500 Highway 59 in Gulf Shores, the academy conducts pre-k through high school classes from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekdays and features traditional and hybrid educational classes, computers and other activities for students. For more information, please contact the SBCA at (251) 967-2688 or visit www.southbaldwinca.org.

Sun Loan Company Shines Again

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 22:22:36 GMT

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting for the opening of Sun Loan Company located at 1155 N. McKenzie Street in Foley.

With two other locations in Bay Minette and Robertsdale, the newest location is ready to get to work for you in Foley. Most loans are approved in 30 minutes or less and payments are designed to fit most budgets. Call or stop by and get the best service under the Sun. Hours of Operation are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. till 5:00 p.m. Phone applications are welcome by calling (251) 987-1002.

Pictured for ribbon-cutting in front row: Christi Koehle, Chamber Chairman of Board; Jeanie Irwin, BRT volunteer; Teresa Adams, Asst. Mgr.; Robin Satterfield, Sun Loan Manager, Tom Debell, Chamber Board; Renee James, Diplomat.

Back row: Dale Sommerfeld, Diplomat; Michelle Nelson, Chamber Board; Tom McKnighten, Chamber Board; Durk Johnson, Diplomat.

March Business of the Month

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 04:22:03 GMT

Robertsdale Medical Specialists in Robertsdale is South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Business of the Month for March 2013.

Robertsdale Medical Specialists specializes in family medicine and offers treatment of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes screening and counseling, seasonal immunizations & vaccines, sports, school and annual physicals and annual wellness visits. Dr. Peter Johnson is board certified by the American Board of Preventative Medicine and offers either same-or next-day appointment availability.

To schedule an appointment, call (251) 424-1160 or stop by their office at 21862 US Hwy 59, Suite B in Robertsdale.

Pictured from left: Lisa Stowe, Director of Physician Practice Operations, Jennifer Cooper, Dr. Peter Johnson, Keith Newton, SBRMC CEO, April Clark, Jillian Daniels, Daniel McKinney, SBRMC ACEO, Kim Neal, Marketing Director and Provider Relations