July 13, 2011
Carol Beddingfield
Executive Director
Chamber Chatter
“Buy American” was once the slogan for all of us. However, it is a challenge to find these products. World trade is driven by the people’s demand.
China has even been introduced to the American fast food. These two cultures have been combined in the take out industry. Fried chicken as well as hamburgers can be purchased with traditional Chinese sides.
However, the Chinese clientele of these restaurants shown on TV have the same weight issues as the United States.
What will be the prevalent health problems of the world population in 2020? Most will be related to obesity. Not only will the physical health be affected but also the cognitive abilities.
Obesity affects a number of metabolic pathways, including those that keep brain cells nourished with oxygen and other nutrients.
In a recent study, findings confirm the growing body of evidence linking obesity to conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease dementia, and stroke.
The study involved 150 obese participants. Twelve weeks after having bariatric surgery, the recall and attention tests improved tremendously.
Researchers are eager to see if the same cognitive benefits occur in people who shed weight through exercise without surgery.
If you need help to improve your memory through weight loss, contact the Wills Valley Recreation Center to enroll in various programs. DeKalb Regional Medical Center offers a wide range of help from nutrition consultation to workouts in the Fitness First Program.
Be sure to get a complete physical before enrolling in a new exercise program. Evidence proves that a healthy weight is good for the both the body and mind.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Monday, July 11, 2011
Bellefonte Nuclear Plant
July 6, 2011
Carol Beddingfield
Executive Director
Chamber Chatter
The Bellefonte Nuclear Plant was the host site for the quarterly meeting of the Tri-State Regional Workforce Alliance meeting on June 3rd.
Mr. Ray Hruby and his staff provided an update on the completion of the plant. The cost to bring the plant on line would be significantly less than for TVA to develop a new site.
Any components that do not measure up to modern standards will be replaced. Control systems will be updated to digital and the control room will be the most advanced in the nation.
The successful restoration of Browns Ferry Unit 1 and Watts Bar Unit 1 will guide TVA in the modernization of Bellefonte to ensure safe and economical operation.
Nuclear energy is more cost efficient. Sixty-seven percent of the cost is fixed now. The clean air emission is ranked at 0%. TVA can provide lower rates and high reliability while providing public protection.
The effect that the completion of Bellefonte will have on our community will not only be seen in the power production but also in the workforce.
Three thousand well paying jobs will be created through this project. 800 of these will be permanent.
Positions will range from engineers, welders, pipe fitters, boiler makers, to general labor.
TVA has experienced a turnover of ½ of its employees in the last five years due to retirement. 25 new engineers per year will be needed to fill the required positions.
In the next 4 years 1/3 of the workforce will retire. Our young trained generation will be running the Bellefonte facility.
Training programs for these positions are available at Northeast Alabama Community College. Contact Mike Kennamer or any of the Workforce Development staff at 256-638-4418.
Carol Beddingfield
Executive Director
Chamber Chatter
The Bellefonte Nuclear Plant was the host site for the quarterly meeting of the Tri-State Regional Workforce Alliance meeting on June 3rd.
Mr. Ray Hruby and his staff provided an update on the completion of the plant. The cost to bring the plant on line would be significantly less than for TVA to develop a new site.
Any components that do not measure up to modern standards will be replaced. Control systems will be updated to digital and the control room will be the most advanced in the nation.
The successful restoration of Browns Ferry Unit 1 and Watts Bar Unit 1 will guide TVA in the modernization of Bellefonte to ensure safe and economical operation.
Nuclear energy is more cost efficient. Sixty-seven percent of the cost is fixed now. The clean air emission is ranked at 0%. TVA can provide lower rates and high reliability while providing public protection.
The effect that the completion of Bellefonte will have on our community will not only be seen in the power production but also in the workforce.
Three thousand well paying jobs will be created through this project. 800 of these will be permanent.
Positions will range from engineers, welders, pipe fitters, boiler makers, to general labor.
TVA has experienced a turnover of ½ of its employees in the last five years due to retirement. 25 new engineers per year will be needed to fill the required positions.
In the next 4 years 1/3 of the workforce will retire. Our young trained generation will be running the Bellefonte facility.
Training programs for these positions are available at Northeast Alabama Community College. Contact Mike Kennamer or any of the Workforce Development staff at 256-638-4418.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Better Business Bureau
Carol Beddingfield
June 26, 2011
Chamber Chatter
Do you get as frustrated as I do trying to determine if an offer is legitimate or is simply a scam?
When in doubt and especially before you commit any money, check out the company at the Better Business Bureau of North Alabama.
The purpose of this organization is to help steer you towards trustworthy companies and away from scam artists. Education and awareness will help you safeguard your money.
The 2010 top ten scams that were reported to the BBB nationwide include the following:
1) Lottery or Sweepstakes scam – Usually these include a check that looks real. Never deposit the check or send matching funds to gain the remainder of the fake jackpot.
2) Government Grant Scams – This type of scam is very prevalent due to the storms of April 27th. Be sure to check with the BBB for the company’s history and only give your information to a certified branch of the government such as FEMA.
3) Caller ID Spoofing – Technology today will allow a con artist to trick you by using family and friends caller id numbers
4) “Free” trial offers- These website ads actually cost consumers as much as hundreds of dollars, month after month.
5) Job Hunter Scams – False employers ask for personal information claiming to check individual’s credit report.
6) Work from Home – These scams claim to teach you how to make money online; assemble items, but you can end up losing hundreds of dollars
7) Home Repairs/Roofers –Roofing company complaints increased by 40% in 2010. Be careful of door to door salesman.
8) Mystery Shopping – Never pay a company to be a mystery shopper. If the company is legit, they will pay you without upfront funds.
9) Over Payment Scams – Small businesses should be aware of this scam. The pretend customer will send a check for more than the purchase amount and then demand that the company refund. Of course the scam artist original check is no good.
10) Phishing Scams – Computer hackers use fake emails from governmental offices, banks, and even friends to obtain personal information or to infect your computer with a destructive virus.
Call the Better Business Bureau of North Alabama if your deal seems to be too good to be true. The phone number is 256-533-1640.
June 26, 2011
Chamber Chatter
Do you get as frustrated as I do trying to determine if an offer is legitimate or is simply a scam?
When in doubt and especially before you commit any money, check out the company at the Better Business Bureau of North Alabama.
The purpose of this organization is to help steer you towards trustworthy companies and away from scam artists. Education and awareness will help you safeguard your money.
The 2010 top ten scams that were reported to the BBB nationwide include the following:
1) Lottery or Sweepstakes scam – Usually these include a check that looks real. Never deposit the check or send matching funds to gain the remainder of the fake jackpot.
2) Government Grant Scams – This type of scam is very prevalent due to the storms of April 27th. Be sure to check with the BBB for the company’s history and only give your information to a certified branch of the government such as FEMA.
3) Caller ID Spoofing – Technology today will allow a con artist to trick you by using family and friends caller id numbers
4) “Free” trial offers- These website ads actually cost consumers as much as hundreds of dollars, month after month.
5) Job Hunter Scams – False employers ask for personal information claiming to check individual’s credit report.
6) Work from Home – These scams claim to teach you how to make money online; assemble items, but you can end up losing hundreds of dollars
7) Home Repairs/Roofers –Roofing company complaints increased by 40% in 2010. Be careful of door to door salesman.
8) Mystery Shopping – Never pay a company to be a mystery shopper. If the company is legit, they will pay you without upfront funds.
9) Over Payment Scams – Small businesses should be aware of this scam. The pretend customer will send a check for more than the purchase amount and then demand that the company refund. Of course the scam artist original check is no good.
10) Phishing Scams – Computer hackers use fake emails from governmental offices, banks, and even friends to obtain personal information or to infect your computer with a destructive virus.
Call the Better Business Bureau of North Alabama if your deal seems to be too good to be true. The phone number is 256-533-1640.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
DeKalb Regional Medical Center
Chamber Chatter
Carol Beddingfield
Executive Director
Congratulations to Chief Executive Officer Jeff Rains and the staff of the DeKalb Regional Medical Center. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama recently awarded the DRMC its sixth consecutive Tier 1 status.
What does this mean for you? The recognition is based largely on quality of care based on national quality standards, infection control rates and transparency.
If you have Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance, it could also mean you pay the lowest rates available for co-pay.
Improvements are continuously made at the hospital. A picture archival and communication system that allows diagnostic imaging exams be stored digitally was recently added. The report can then be sent to your doctor on a CD.
The exams are permanently archived in case your doctor needs them in the future.
DRMC is offering the newest advancement in surgery, the Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery. This procedure replaces the three to four incisions required by standard laparoscopic surgeries with just one incision in the belly button.
According to Dr. Jeffery Thompson, "This procedure has the potential for elimination of visible scars and the potential to be applied to numerous other conditions requiring surgery."
SILSTM provides less discomfort and faster recovery time than standard laparoscopic surgeries. Dr. Steve Isbell is also a proponent of the one incision surgery. He believes that the procedure will be useful in many general surgical and gynecological operations.
Our town may be small in comparison but we definitely have one of the best medical facilities in our area. It is through leadership such as hospital CEO Jeff Rains that improvements continued to be made.
Carol Beddingfield
Executive Director
Congratulations to Chief Executive Officer Jeff Rains and the staff of the DeKalb Regional Medical Center. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama recently awarded the DRMC its sixth consecutive Tier 1 status.
What does this mean for you? The recognition is based largely on quality of care based on national quality standards, infection control rates and transparency.
If you have Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance, it could also mean you pay the lowest rates available for co-pay.
Improvements are continuously made at the hospital. A picture archival and communication system that allows diagnostic imaging exams be stored digitally was recently added. The report can then be sent to your doctor on a CD.
The exams are permanently archived in case your doctor needs them in the future.
DRMC is offering the newest advancement in surgery, the Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery. This procedure replaces the three to four incisions required by standard laparoscopic surgeries with just one incision in the belly button.
According to Dr. Jeffery Thompson, "This procedure has the potential for elimination of visible scars and the potential to be applied to numerous other conditions requiring surgery."
SILSTM provides less discomfort and faster recovery time than standard laparoscopic surgeries. Dr. Steve Isbell is also a proponent of the one incision surgery. He believes that the procedure will be useful in many general surgical and gynecological operations.
Our town may be small in comparison but we definitely have one of the best medical facilities in our area. It is through leadership such as hospital CEO Jeff Rains that improvements continued to be made.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Off the Boat Seafood
My favorite thing during the summer is to be at the beach or at least to dream that I am at the beach having shrimp.
Today without traveling six hours, I can sit on my own back deck and enjoy fresh gulf bay shrimp. In fact, the steamed shrimp from Off the Boat is the best I have eaten.
When Greg and Kelly Parker built their dream home in Mentone, they often wished they could still enjoy the gulf coast seafood. Friends from Orange Beach encouraged them to make the leap and open a takeout seafood restaurant in Fort Payne.
This month marks the six month anniversary of the opening of Off the Boat. According to Kelly, “This milestone in their lives is the most life changing. The people of this area are happier. The concern for each other is genuine.”
The Parkers certainly reflect the desire to serve others. During the tornado disaster, they provided hot meals for many of the storm victims.
The menu at Off the Boat includes items for everyone. The baked chicken can be ordered even by those who are sensitive to shellfish. Vegetarian plates are also available.
If you have a special recipe, uncooked seafood can be purchased. All the products are wild caught. No pond raised or confined products are sold.
The restaurant is takeout only. The food is prepared after the order is placed. A usual time wait is 30 minutes. The hours of operation are from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
New items are being added at customer request such as lump crabmeat. The restaurant’s specialty is the seafood lasagna.
Sorry Savannah, Georgia, Fort Payne now has the best seafood bisque! Stop by Off the Boat at 1702 Gault Avenue, North, Suite 101 or call your order in at 256-845-4699. Tell Greg and Kelly the Chamber sent you.
Today without traveling six hours, I can sit on my own back deck and enjoy fresh gulf bay shrimp. In fact, the steamed shrimp from Off the Boat is the best I have eaten.
When Greg and Kelly Parker built their dream home in Mentone, they often wished they could still enjoy the gulf coast seafood. Friends from Orange Beach encouraged them to make the leap and open a takeout seafood restaurant in Fort Payne.
This month marks the six month anniversary of the opening of Off the Boat. According to Kelly, “This milestone in their lives is the most life changing. The people of this area are happier. The concern for each other is genuine.”
The Parkers certainly reflect the desire to serve others. During the tornado disaster, they provided hot meals for many of the storm victims.
The menu at Off the Boat includes items for everyone. The baked chicken can be ordered even by those who are sensitive to shellfish. Vegetarian plates are also available.
If you have a special recipe, uncooked seafood can be purchased. All the products are wild caught. No pond raised or confined products are sold.
The restaurant is takeout only. The food is prepared after the order is placed. A usual time wait is 30 minutes. The hours of operation are from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
New items are being added at customer request such as lump crabmeat. The restaurant’s specialty is the seafood lasagna.
Sorry Savannah, Georgia, Fort Payne now has the best seafood bisque! Stop by Off the Boat at 1702 Gault Avenue, North, Suite 101 or call your order in at 256-845-4699. Tell Greg and Kelly the Chamber sent you.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Small Business Disaster Recovery Fund
June 8, 2011
Carol Beddingfield
Executive Director
Chamber Chatter
Are you a small business owner who suffered loss during the storms of April 27th? Do you need financial help immediately?
You could qualify for a loan that could have a turnaround period of about one week.
The Top of Alabama Regional Council of Governments (TARCOG) announced the creation of a small Business Disaster Recovery Fund. The funds will provide small loans with low interest rates to businesses that were damaged in the storms of April 27th.
The purpose of the fund is to make immediate financing for recovery purposes until more permanent financing may be obtained.
These loans will be available in amounts from $5,000 to $25,000. Interest rates of 4% will be fixed for a term of three years.
TARCOG routinely provides financing to small businesses within the service area of DeKalb, Limestone, Jackson, Madison and Marshall Counties. The Revolving Loan Fund has helped many with the start up cost of a company.
Now, these dollars will also help owners with the cost of continuing to operate after experiencing hardship during the recovery efforts.
Serving as Treasurer of TARCOG Board of Directors, I am encouraged to see the business community of our area be a focal point of service. I congratulate the leadership of Director Bob Culver and his staff for their efforts to help small businesses.
IF your business has been damaged and is in need of such a loan, contact Joe Howe at 256-716-2481 or Jeff Pruitt at 256-716-2483.
Also, check with the US Small Business Administration for loans of larger amounts. You must have filed the proper paperwork with the Federal Emergency Management Agency by June 27, 2011 to qualify.
Call FEMA at 1-800-621-3362 or visit the website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/.
Carol Beddingfield
Executive Director
Chamber Chatter
Are you a small business owner who suffered loss during the storms of April 27th? Do you need financial help immediately?
You could qualify for a loan that could have a turnaround period of about one week.
The Top of Alabama Regional Council of Governments (TARCOG) announced the creation of a small Business Disaster Recovery Fund. The funds will provide small loans with low interest rates to businesses that were damaged in the storms of April 27th.
The purpose of the fund is to make immediate financing for recovery purposes until more permanent financing may be obtained.
These loans will be available in amounts from $5,000 to $25,000. Interest rates of 4% will be fixed for a term of three years.
TARCOG routinely provides financing to small businesses within the service area of DeKalb, Limestone, Jackson, Madison and Marshall Counties. The Revolving Loan Fund has helped many with the start up cost of a company.
Now, these dollars will also help owners with the cost of continuing to operate after experiencing hardship during the recovery efforts.
Serving as Treasurer of TARCOG Board of Directors, I am encouraged to see the business community of our area be a focal point of service. I congratulate the leadership of Director Bob Culver and his staff for their efforts to help small businesses.
IF your business has been damaged and is in need of such a loan, contact Joe Howe at 256-716-2481 or Jeff Pruitt at 256-716-2483.
Also, check with the US Small Business Administration for loans of larger amounts. You must have filed the proper paperwork with the Federal Emergency Management Agency by June 27, 2011 to qualify.
Call FEMA at 1-800-621-3362 or visit the website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
WZOB and Chamber’s first After Hours Block Party
June 1, 2011
Carol Beddingfield
Executive Director
Chamber Chatter
The Chamber’s first After Hours Block Party was a huge success. The merchants of Glenn Crossing were very appreciative of the Chamber’s efforts to increase the number of customers shopping their stores.
The UPS Store, Burke’s Outlet, Verizon, GNC, Shoe Show, and Hibbett’s Sports provided refreshments and great door prizes.
The WZOB live remote added a fun atmosphere to the event. Doris Hobbs and Jack Martin helped to peak the public’s interest.
Our town is fortunate to have these two individuals helping to promote our area. They both have resumes of hours of volunteer work.
Doris has been the treasurer of the Northeast Alabama Home and Garden Show for the past 28 years.
Jack Martin is part of the country band called Forever Country. He does volunteer work at nursing homes and assisted living programs. His band plays for senior dances.
Doris and Jack are proud to be part of the history of one of DeKalb County’s oldest radio stations. WZOB first came on the air in June of 1950. During the 61 years, the Ted Kirby family has been involved in the station.
Michael and Phyllis Kirby are the present owners. The station has been voted the Best Radio Station in DeKalb County for 17 consecutive years.
The country format strives to serve all of the people of DeKalb County. Swap Shop has put many buyers and sellers together.
Thank you again WZOB for supporting the Chamber’s endeavors to promote and support the local business community. We will “see and hear” you at the next Block Party!
Carol Beddingfield
Executive Director
Chamber Chatter
The Chamber’s first After Hours Block Party was a huge success. The merchants of Glenn Crossing were very appreciative of the Chamber’s efforts to increase the number of customers shopping their stores.
The UPS Store, Burke’s Outlet, Verizon, GNC, Shoe Show, and Hibbett’s Sports provided refreshments and great door prizes.
The WZOB live remote added a fun atmosphere to the event. Doris Hobbs and Jack Martin helped to peak the public’s interest.
Our town is fortunate to have these two individuals helping to promote our area. They both have resumes of hours of volunteer work.
Doris has been the treasurer of the Northeast Alabama Home and Garden Show for the past 28 years.
Jack Martin is part of the country band called Forever Country. He does volunteer work at nursing homes and assisted living programs. His band plays for senior dances.
Doris and Jack are proud to be part of the history of one of DeKalb County’s oldest radio stations. WZOB first came on the air in June of 1950. During the 61 years, the Ted Kirby family has been involved in the station.
Michael and Phyllis Kirby are the present owners. The station has been voted the Best Radio Station in DeKalb County for 17 consecutive years.
The country format strives to serve all of the people of DeKalb County. Swap Shop has put many buyers and sellers together.
Thank you again WZOB for supporting the Chamber’s endeavors to promote and support the local business community. We will “see and hear” you at the next Block Party!
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