Crenshaw County Chamber of Commerce


by Carol
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Chamber News

What a year 2020 was…..at least we were able to celebrate Bernie Sullivan as our Citizen of the Year, but unfortunately we were not able to offer any of the other events the Chamber sponsors until the Golf Tournament and Christmas Parade.  So we look forward to being able to host the following events sometime during the 2021 calendar year….Coaches Breakfasts, Citizen of the Year celebration, Taste of Crenshaw, County Yard Sale, Golf Tournament, Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade.  We are also working to offer some After Hours events that should interest you.
The Chamber Board of Directors is excited to announce that Kathy Smyth, owner of ReImagined and Luverne City Council member has joined the Board.  Kathy is very creative and believes in Crenshaw County and is ready to help anyone.  New faces and new ideas will bring new events to the Crenshaw County business community.  In that vein, we hope that you, as members of the Chamber, will offer suggestions for new events that you feel will best serve the businesses.  We are open to anything that will bring more businesses and more shoppers.
Thanks for your continued support and may 2021 be a great year for everyone.


by Beth Rogers
Comments Off on 2021 February Newsletter #6

2021 February Newsletter #6

SPOTLIGHT –  DSA Graphics:
Locally family owned and operated business with over 25 years experience.  We can help with all your embroidery, screen print, vinyl, magnet, banner, car decal and yard sign needs.  Drop by and check out what we have in stock or let us show you some custom options.  We are located at 838 South Forest Ave., Luverne or can be reached at 334-335-6196.  Hope to see you soon. 

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          New Chamber Member

The Chamber welcomes Kathleen Tinkler, who recently moved here from Arizona.  Kathleen has years of custom dress making, loves gardening, baking and sewing and meeting new people and is open to a parttime job.                                                                         *********************** 
from Crenshaw Community Hospital:
See attached flyer with information about Cardio Screening event at the hospital on Friday, the 26th. 
from Crenshaw County Extension Office: Crenshaw County 4-H is asking the public to donate any size or flavor of peanut butter and jelly to help the local food pantries, senior citizen groups and children who are in need.  Donations will be picked up by the extension office and distributed through them.  Be sure to notice the donation boxes at the following businesses:  Crenshaw County 4-H Office, Luverne courthouse; Luverne Public Library; Crenshaw County EMA;  First Citizens Bank, Luverne or Highland Home; Old Gin Creek, Brantley; 4 Byrds Building & Industrial Supplies, Brantley; Brantley High School; Luverne High School.  The donation boxes will be in place through end of February, so plenty of time to make your donations to help fight hunger.  See attached flyer.


by Beth Rogers
Comments Off on February 2021 Newsletter #4

February 2021 Newsletter #4

from L & L Auto Glass:
We are looking to hire a glass technician/installer. MUST be 21 years old or older, and be able to pass a drug test. Pay will depend on experience. Must be reliable and willing to work. Call 334-304-2668.Luverne, Al. employer.
                                                    *****************

from Crenshaw Community Hospital:
Crenshaw Community Hospital will be hosting a free cardiovascular screening event Friday, February 26th from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. This event is completely free for anyone who attends. Appointments are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. Each visit should only last a few minutes. 
We know how much you value your employees, so I wanted to reach out to you to inform you of this opportunity. In 2018, we held a screening that discovered 2 cases of onset diabetes. I encourage you to encourage your team to attend. With COVID spreading so quickly, it is important that everyone knows of any underlying conditions they may have. People with cardiovascular problems are more likely to have more adverse effects from the virus. 

Please see the attached flyer and send it to your personnel!
Also, if you have any promotional material that you would like to include in the goody bags that will be given to the patients, please call Chloe at 334-368-2262. She will come pick them up!
Thank you,Chloe Langston

Marketing CoordinatorCrenshaw Community Hospital101 Hospital CircleLuverne, AL. 36049clangston@crenshawcommunityhospital.com

Cell: 334-368-2262 Phone: 334-335-1193

“The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” – Mark Twain
                                                            ***************************************
from Crenshaw County Extension Office: Crenshaw County 4-H is asking the public to donate any size or flavor of peanut butter and jelly to help the local food pantries, senior citizen groups and children who are in need.  Donations will be picked up by the extension office and distributed through them.  Be sure to notice the donation boxes at the following businesses:  Crenshaw County 4-H Office, Luverne courthouse; Luverne Public Library; Crenshaw County EMA;  First Citizens Bank, Luverne or Highland Home; Old Gin Creek, Brantley; 4 Byrds Building & Industrial Supplies, Brantley; Brantley High School; Luverne High School.  The donation boxes will be in place through end of February, so plenty of time to make your donations to help fight hunger.  See attached flyer.
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by Beth Rogers
Comments Off on January 2021 Newsletter 1

January 2021 Newsletter 1

Southeast AlabamaWorks is a Chamber member and as such, frequently provides helpful hints for workforce needs.
This is a business and industry survey from Southeast AlabamaWorks and a great opportunity for members to give feedback on training and workforce needs. Click on link below.   Thank you and Happy New Year!https://southeastalabamaworks.formstack.com/forms/business_needs_copy_1?fbclid=IwAR3WJvNqh8LA09y5RGqODkZZXLie8RiAQ05gAzWuC9M5gcIZCNsc8Z9TB2U

 We hope each and every one had a blessed Holiday season and is ready for an awesome 2021.


by Beth Rogers
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Paycheck Protection Program First Draw Loans

Subject: PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM FIRST DRAW LOANS

The U.S. Small Business Administration, in consultation with the U.S. Treasury Department, is opening the Paycheck Protection Program loan portal on Monday, Jan. 11, 2021 at 9 am ET. When the PPP loan portal system opens on Monday morning, it will initially accept First Draw PPP loan applications from participating CFIs, which include Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs), Certified Development Companies (CDCs) and Microloan Intermediaries.

 The opening of the SBA loan system is designed to efficiently and effectively implement the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act and to ensure increased access to the PPP for minority-, underserved-, veteran- and women-owned small business concerns. SBA also is calling upon its lending partners to redouble their efforts to assist eligible borrowers in underserved and disadvantaged communities.

 SBA will continue to provide updates on operations during the week of January 11, 2021. Additionally, SBA plans to dedicate specific times to process and assist the smallest PPP lenders with loan applications from eligible small businesses.

Eddie F. Postell

Manager, Office of Small Business Advocacy

Alabama Department of Commerce

401 Adams Avenue, Suite 610

Montgomery, Alabama 36130

Office:  (334) 242-0485

Fax: (334) 242-0415

Toll Free: (800) 248-0033

Website: http://www.madeinalabama.com


by Beth Rogers
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January 2021 Newsletter 2

from LBWCC:

LBWCC Launches New Volleyball Program

Lurleen B. Wallace Community College announces the addition of women’s volleyball to its intercollegiate athletic program. The program is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2021.

 “We are extremely excited to announce the addition of a volleyball program at LBW,” said President, Dr. Brock Kelley.“ This will not only allow student-athletes to have an opportunity to extend their playing career after high school but will allow these students to take part in our ever-growing academic programs.”   LBWCC will join 10 other colleges in the Alabama Community College Conference that currently offer the program.

 “Our goal at LBW with the addition of this program is to bridge the gap of opportunity for Alabama high school volleyball players, especially in South Alabama,” Kelley added.

 “Our hope is to continue to remove barriers for individuals in all aspects. With the lack of a community college volleyball program in our area, this is one more barrier we are able to remove.”  With the addition of women’s volleyball, LBWCC will offer 5 athletic programs including, two men’s and three women’s programs.

 The search for the program’s head coach will begin in the near future, according to Kelley.

 “This is a great opportunity to grow the athletic department at LBW and expand our reach to more student athletes,” said Athletic Director, Steve Helms.  “Adding women’s volleyball will enhance the traditions already established in our athletic program which focuses on developing young men and women for life after sports.”

 For more information on the new volleyball program contact Athletic Director, Steve Helms at shelms@lbwcc.edu.


by Beth Rogers
Comments Off on December 2020 Newsletter

December 2020 Newsletter

The Board of Directors

of the

Crenshaw County Chamber of Commerce

wishes

You, Your Families and Your Employees

a

Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 

********* 

We sincerely thank you for your continued support despite the most 

unusual year and we are looking forward to a year of peace, joy and 

productivity in 2021………

Don  *  Ruth  *   Martha  *   Beth *   Carol   *   Jackie

*  Sal.Lee   *   Steve   *   Emily  *   Jimmy*   Heath   *   Kay  *   Foster  *  **************
As you finish your shopping, please remember SHOP LOCAL, SHOP LOCAL, SHOP LOCAL.


by Beth Rogers
Comments Off on November 2020 Newsletter 8

November 2020 Newsletter 8

CHAMBER ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARADE
The Crenshaw County Chamber of Commerce will once again host it’s annual Christmas Parade on Thursday, December 10th, beginning at 6:00 p.m.  Pictures with Santa will be taken at 4th St. and S. Forest beginning at 4:30 p.m. with Mr. and Mrs. Mara who come each year.  Santa pictures are $5 each.  If you want to participate in the parade, be sure to call the Chamber office at 335-4468 to register your float, car, 4-wheeler, etc.  There is no fee for parade entry except a toy for the DHR Toy Drive as usual.  We encourage parade contestants and parade spectators to all wear masks for the protection and consideration of others……we will be providing more information as days go by, but we hope you can join us on that very special night, December 10th.
BLOOD DRIVE – IN THE CIRCLE AT HOSPITAL – TODAY
It’s not too late – the LifeSouth Bloodmobile will be there until 4 p.m. – sponsored by Crenshaw Community Hospital – make a significant contribution – Give Blood!  101 Hospital Drive, Luverne, AL 36049….                                                                                ******************
from Luverne Public Library: The Luverne Public Library will host their annual “Visit with Santa” on Thursday, December 3rd from 3 – 6 p.m.   This free event offers families the opportunity for  their children  to visit with Santa.  We encourage parents to bring their camera or phone and take as many pictures as they like.  Each child will receive a small prize from Santa and refreshments will be available. 
As the shopping season begins in earnest, we encourage everyone to think of your local businesses ….give gift certificates or purchase items sold locally….Crenshaw County is very fortunate to have creative businesses who do their best to provide a shopping atmosphere for you.  We will be reminding you of what stores have to offer as the season progresses……so keep your list handy to take notes – and remember to SHOP LOCAL….SHOP LOCAL….SHOP LOCAL.


by Beth Rogers
Comments Off on December 2020 Newsletter 3

December 2020 Newsletter 3

Christmas Parade – We want to thank everyone who put in lots of hard work and time decorating floats, stringing lights on vehicles and organizing to participate in the 2020 Annual Christmas Parade.  The event was a rousing success and hopefully all who watched or participated feel the same.  The winners of the float contest are:  1st Place – Crenshaw County Queens; 2nd Place – Highland Home Elementary; 3rd Place – Chapel Hill Baptist Church.  Santa and Mrs. Claus were here for pictures and the 2020 Citizen of the Year, Bernie Sullivan, Mayor of Brantley, led the parade and lighted the tree to begin the Christmas season.  Thanks also to Danny Rolling for bringing a spiritual message, so good to hear in these strange times.  Mayor Beasley and Donna and Probate Judge Will Tate and family sat with us on the grandstand and a special thank you to Don Nix for emceeing the parade. ISt was a beautiful night under the Luverne downtown lights. Again, the Chamber thanks everyone!!
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from L & L Glass:
A little Elf told us that there is only 9 days left until Christmas!! We know many of you will be traveling for the holidays, and finding damage to your windshield is definitely a “ba humbug” moment. But, don’t let a cracked or chipped windshield put a damper on your Christmas plans, come by and see us for all your replacements and repairs! Let us help make your Christmas a little more merry and bright! Call us at: 334-304-2668Or come by: 842 West 3rd Street Luverne AL 36049
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from The Chamber:
Attached is a reminder of how fortunate we are to have so many places to shop in Crenshaw County. Please print this reminder list and keep it with you while shopping and share with others. We may have missed someone, we hope not……if so we sincerely apologize! We hope this helps you to SHOP LOCAL whenever possible.


by Beth Rogers
Comments Off on December 2020 Newsletter 1

December 2020 Newsletter 1

The Crenshaw County Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade is ON!  The parade will begin at the corner of Franklin and 3rd at 6:00 P.M.  The procession will then follow the traditional route to So Forest Ave. and end at the corner of So Forest and West 6th St.   Entry is free and as always, each participant is encouraged to bring a new toy to be donated to the DHR at the end of the parade route.
Participants are urged to begin lining up as necessary, or 4:30 PM, at the old armory building.  Chamber Board members will be on hand to assist with the lineup.   Ample flood lighting will be provided in the general staging area.  Troy Cable will provide video coverage of the event to be replayed later.   And the top three floats  will be awarded trophies.
The “World’s Longest Small Town Christmas Parade” and the Chamber also ask for your help.  The Chamber is asking everyone – EVERYONE – to participate in a  “Crenshaw Countywide Coverup“.  To be a part of the “Coverup”, we encourage all participants, including observers lining the parade route,  to wear a mask and “Cover Up!”  Regardless of personal feelings or opinions, we encourage everyone to consider others during this Wonderful Christmas Season, and make the “Crenshaw Countywide Coverup” as successful as our county deserves.
See you Thursday…

Donald Nix
President, Crenshaw County Chamber of Commerce

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from The Carriage House:
                                                                           Shop Local and Win!                 Downtown Luverne, Shop, Treats and contribute to Carriage House Toy Drive.                                                          Friday, December 11th….3:30 – 6:30 p.m.                                          Extended Retail Hours…Flyer attached with details…….
                                                                            ********************

and from LBWCC:
For Immediate Release..December 3, 2020

TRAIN FOR A CAREER WITHOUT A DIPLOMA

 LBW Community College has updated the Ability to Benefit requirements to allow an individual without a high school diploma or GED to enroll in a qualifying degree or certificate program.

 “This change in LBW’s policy will not only benefit those who qualify but will also increase the population who holds industry-recognized credentials; therefore, moving toward an increase in our region’s labor force participation rate,” said LBWCC President, Dr. Brock Kelley.

 Ability to Benefit details include:

  • Students who do not have a high school diploma or GED
  • Be dually enrolled in our Adult Ed program and a CTE program

Career and technical education programs that currently qualify:

  • Advanced EMT
  • Emergency Medical Basic
  • Emergency Medical Associate Degree
  • Welding
  • Associate Degree of Nursing
  • Automotive Mechanics
  • Computer Science
  • Diagnostic Medical Sonography
  • Diesel and Heavy Equipment
  • Industrial Electronics
  • Office Administration
  • Must take the Accuplacer Ability to Benefit test and score Reading Test (233), Writing Test (235), Arithmetic Test (230)

 “Ultimately, our goal is to help our students gain technical skills, giving them an opportunity to earn sustainable wages within our region,” stated Kelley.

 Students who meet the Ability to Benefit requirements can apply for Federal Pell Grant and Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) tuition assistance. The LBWCC Adult Education and Workforce Development office is available to help students register for a career pathway program and enroll in courses.  Anyone interested in enrolling can contact Instructional Coordinator, Kelsi Scruggs at (334) 881-2231 or kscruggs@lbwcc.edu.
Thank you,

Maggie JonesPublic Information Officer/Director of MarketingLurleen B. Wallace Community Collegep:334.881.2221  c: 334.804.4191a:P.O. Drawer 1418, Andalusia, AL 36420w:www.lbwcc.edu  e: mjones@lbwcc.edu