 Summer is the perfect time to take trips—to the beach, to a nearby city, or even to see family members. Multiple vacations a year can be costly. If you’ve maxed out your trip funds this summer but still itching for one last weekend of fun, consider a staycation. A staycation is described as a vacation spent in your own city visiting local attractions. If you’re looking to make the most of the rest of summer without breaking the bank, you can easily do so without leaving town. Lucky for you, Valdosta makes for a great staycation destination. Unassuming at first, Valdosta is a charming, historic city overflowing with attractions and a never-ending list of things to see and do. One of the main attractions here in Valdosta is the Wild Adventures Theme Park. This is surely a full-day attraction and a fun one at that! Enjoy thrilling rides, delicious food, live shows, animals, and a great atmosphere. Another outdoor attraction worthy of a day trip is the Kinderlou Forest Golf Club. Kinderlou is an aesthetically pleasing 18-hole golf course with challenging, fun holes at every turn. If you have younger ones, Jungle Jym’s on North Oak Street Extension has a pleasant miniature golf course, as well as an indoor arcade and bounce houses. This place is a great one to expend energy and spend quality time as a family. For rainy weekends, which happen often in this area, you can head to the Lowndes Country Historical Society and Museum and visit the almost 10,000 square feet of local historic displays and research material. Peach State Summer Theatre makes a great indoor location idea. With their company of over 60 professional singers, dancers, managers, and creators, they offer a 10-week season of shows that are sure to be a hit. If you’ve missed the live shows at the Summer Theatre, Valdosta Stadium Cinemas is always showing the most recent releases. With no shortage of places to eat, you can take your pick of anything from classic Southern BBQ to a Japanese Steak House to cap off your staycation evening. These attractions and several more are the reason Valdosta will make for a perfect staycation. Save money all while making memories with your friends and family.  Additional blog post can be found here.
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Proudly owned and operated by Alberto and Glenda Sanchez, Empanadas & More is a local restaurant striving to create food options that are both healthy and budget friendly. Empanadas & More provides services through several different channels and marketing niches such as, organized industries and commerce, religious organizations, educational entities, hospitals, medical offices, families and individuals.
Empanadas & More is not a commercial food chain or franchise business. They aim to add diversity to the local market with food that is prepared fresh each day. Empanadas & More takes great pride in providing their customers with meals that are prepared from locally harvested ingredients. Empanadas & More believes the services they provide to the community places them in a great position in the local market. For more information about Empanadas & More, call 229-245-5355 or visit them at 402 Northside Drive #C, Valdosta, GA 31602. The Chamber Ambassadors honored RE/MAX of Valdosta as the Leading Business of the Week for July 30, 2018.
RE/MAX of Valdosta is one of Valdosta's leading real estate companies and works diligently to promote the community's winning tradition. The RE/MAX franchise prides itself on the use of the latest technologies, training, and resources to ensure that their agents are “above the crowd.” “The agents and staff at RE/MAX of Valdosta genuinely care and are always a joy to be around,” said Tony Barker, co-owner and broker at RE/MAX of Valdosta. “We strive to make our office very happy and productive.” A proud member since 2001, the Chamber works closely with RE/MAX of Valdosta, always keeping them up-to-date on events and opportunities while also promoting them throughout the community. “The Chamber takes an active role in supporting the business needs of our community and spotlights those exceptional businesses that do the right thing, the right way,” Barker said. RE/MAX of Valdosta is located at 1216 Baytree Road in Valdosta, and can be contacted by calling 229-247-2008, or online at www.remax.com/realestatehomesforsale/valdosta-ga. The Leading Business of the Week program is designed to recognize members who have partnered with the Chamber for at least five years. The 2018 Leading Business of the Week program is proudly sponsored by Colson Business Systems. For more information, visit www.ValdostaChamber.com/Leading-Business-of-the-Week.  Each year, due to overpopulated shelters and not enough people willing to adopt, 2.7 million adoptable dogs and cats are euthanized in the United States. There are many reasons potential pet owners don’t always consider adoption when looking for a furry companion. Some reasons include not knowing the animal’s history, potential behavior or health problems, and even their age. Fortunately, there are extraordinary benefits to be gained for you and the animals through adoption. Besides the number of euthanized animals being greatly reduced, adoption also creates space for other animals who may desperately need to be sheltered until they find a forever home. Adoption is a great way to save on some costs; many shelter animals are already housetrained and even used to living with a family, which eliminates housebreaking and training expenses. Additionally, things like spay/neuter and initial vaccinations are often included in the adoption fee. You are guaranteed to get a great animal from your local shelter. Not only are you saving an animal’s life, but you are giving your pet a second chance with a loving owner. Adopting a mature pet often makes introducing him or her to your family much easier. When you adopt, you offer a loving home to an animal who, even if just for a short amount of time, has known life without one. It’s been proven that animals are beneficial to their owner’s health by providing a sense of fulfillment and lessening feelings of loneliness. Even though you might only adopt one animal, the cost of your adoption goes toward shelter expenses and animal care. Not only are you giving an animal a home when you adopt a pet, but you are contributing to better care for other animals at the shelter.
Additional blog post can be found here.
 Exchanging information with others and developing contacts is the process known as networking, and it can be vital to furthering your career. Networking, when viewed as part of the big picture of your business, requires time and patience, and a solid investment in your networking efforts. Like any well-working process, your networking should be a systematic one that is consistently modified to ensure the best results. There are several reasons why networking is important, to include practicing your pitch and widening your circle of influence. Keep in mind that networking is not a selling of your product or service but rather a way to gain opportunities connecting with people. With proper execution and commitment, networking can significantly benefit your business. Networking should be an on-going process rather than a short-term goal. Whether you are new to networking or have been in the game for some time, there are plenty of ways to evolve your businesses’ networking strategies. When looking to enhance your networking group, here are some things to consider:
It’s important to remember that it takes several resources, tools, and time to create solid networking relationships. Dynamic and viable networks can be created through persistence, commitment, and constant development. Visit the SEEDS Business Resource Center for Networking opportunities in Valdosta.  Additional blog post can be found here.
 Defined as a business with less than 100 employees, small businesses make up 99.7% of businesses in the United States. While it’s common to see small businesses pop up in your city from time to time, they often disappear just as quickly as they appear. In fact, about 50% of startup businesses fail within the first five years and no one desires to see this sign. It’s no secret that small businesses play a significant role in the economic growth and development of local communities. But the percentage of small business failures can be discouraging to anyone seeking out a small business venture. While there are several reasons small businesses fail, a few factors include being out-competed, not having the right team, running out of cash, and not having a market for products or services. Keep in mind – paying close attention to these same factors (and more) can be the same reasons that businesses thrive! Everything from employee hiring to use of technology can mean the difference in a successful or unsuccessful small business startup.  Whether you’re looking to revamp and rethink (or even start) your small business, it’s important to be knowledgeable of the common small business failures so you know where to put a little extra thought. Here are a just a few tips to keep in mind when considering starting a small business: Do Your Research When deciding on your small business startup, it’s important to invest in the right idea. Research what kind of businesses work, or don’t work, in certain areas. While most profitable small businesses are a good place to start, always keep your area and, ultimately your customers, in mind. What product or service does your community need? Just because it’s profitable elsewhere does not necessarily mean there is a high demand for it in your community. Communicate with Customers Ensure you are targeting customers specific to your business. Utilize market research to figure out potential customers’ ages, genders, and income levels. Collect data using focus groups, online surveys through sites such as Facebook, or handout surveys. Use social networking to create an online community where you can personally engage in conversation as well as promote your business by sharing news or special offers. Here's a fantastic video from Kent Beuscher, founder of U.S. Press, a commercial printing company in Valdosta, on getting to know your customers. Build the Right Team Not only is it important to find the right members for your team, but it is just as important to consider how you plan to retain good employees. Learn more on how to keep your best employees here. You may also consider incorporating team building by partnering with a John Maxwell Executive Director to help your build your team by providing personal development and training to boost moral. Invest in your team. Employees need to feel valued as well as considered members of a team. This can be achieved through benefits and team-building activities. When people feel a part of a team, studies show they have better sense of security and self esteem. These tips are just a starting point, as there are several ins and outs to starting a small business. Through additional ample research and effort, however, you’ll be on your way to creating a successful small business idea and startup in your community.  Additional blog post can be found here.
 With 3.6 million Georgians residing in rental housing, the Georgia apartment industry is an important one. As the voice of the multi-family housing industry, the Georgia Apartment Association (GAA) and their affiliates are committed to providing its members top notch education, networking, and overall involvement. The GAA consists of apartment communities, owners, managers, and suppliers dedicated to promoting and advancing the needs of the apartment industry. The GAA is comprised of seven affiliate associations from within the state of Georgia, including the South Georgia Apartment Association (SGAA). As an affiliate of the GAA, the SGAA is a member driven, non-profit association dedicated to promoting and protecting the interests and professional advancement of the multi-family housing industry.  SGAA, along with other associations, work together toward a common goal of joining the multi-family housing industry. SGAA focuses on the following three key areas to achieve their purpose:
Becoming a part of the growing SGAA organization will greatly benefit you and your company. A few of those benefits include GAA and NAA membership, involvement in community events, networking through monthly meetings, and access to legislation changes that affect the housing industry.
So, how exactly do you become a member of the GAA? Simply join the affiliated apartment association in the location where you currently do business. For example, if you are a part of Lowndes county, you would join the SGAA. By joining a local affiliate, you automatically become a member of the GAA. With the GAA’s Annual meeting approaching in September, now is the perfect time to become a member. This year’s annual meeting will be held September 5-7 in Savannah, Georgia at the Grand Hyatt. The meeting is focused on networking and educational opportunities. For more information on this year's conference, including daily timeline details and registration, visit the Annual Meeting website page. Additionally, the SGAA is hosting a Vendor Trade Show at the James H. Rainwater Conference Center in Valdosta on October 18 from 5-8 pm. Additional blog post can be found here.   Turns out peaches aren’t the only thing worth making a stop for in South Georgia. It’s safe to say that Georgia grown grapes make for some great tasting wine and, even better, you don’t have to travel very far to sample some of the best. I thought an indoor wine tasting would be the perfect way to beat the heat this past weekend. A short 20-minute drive led me right off Union Road in Hahira, Georgia to the Frogtown South Winery. Although far from it, I instantly felt off-the-beaten-path when pulling up to the winery. The location is charming, making it a great daytime getaway destination while staying within the local area. Frogtown proudly produces 100% pure Muscadine wine, with no flavor additions, from their South Georgia vineyard grown Muscadine vines, and they house several award-winning wines produced by Frogtown Cellars in Dahlonega, Georgia. Whether you prefer sweet, dry, or off-dry wines, Frogtown is sure to offer a tasting to please your palate. Customers can enjoy a delicious panini sandwich or even a fruit and cheese platter along with their tasting. The large, open tasting room offers an aesthetically pleasing area to wine and dine. Also, there is a covered patio furnished with large rocking chairs as well as high-top tables and seating for those who wish to enjoy the scenery of the nearby vineyard and olive grove. Tastings are a great way to sample different wines, and customers can purchase their favorite Georgia grown, produced, and bottled wine to take home. In addition to offering locally made and great tasting wine, Frogtown is open daily – yes, every day of the week! Their hours are 12 – 6 pm on weekdays, 12 – 10 pm on Friday and Saturday, and 12:30 – 5 pm on Sunday. If you’re looking to sample delicious wine and grab a bite to eat all while enjoying a scenic view, then I highly recommend a trip to Frogtown. Make a day of it and bring some friends! Frogtown South offers military discount, friendly wait staff, and a welcoming environment that provides a great experience overall. Frogtown South Winery is located at 7495 Union Rd in Hahira, Georgia and can be reached at 229-794-1600.
The Chamber Ambassadors honored Bethany Hospice and Palliative Care, LLC as Leading Business of the Week for June 18, 2018
A locally owned and operated company, Bethany Hospice and Palliative Care, LLC can be found serving communities in 39 different counties across South Georgia. They have successfully developed and implemented a palliative care program to help meet the needs of patients in their service area. This valuable service offers expert symptom management, ensures the patients’ wishes for their medical care are both known and honored, as well as helping patients and their caregivers cope with serious illness. Ava Best, President of Bethany Hospice and Palliative Care, LLC states, “Here at Bethany Hospice, we always strive for excellent, individualized care for patients and families in need.” When asked how the Chamber has supported their business, Bests says “We appreciate the Drugs Don’t Work program. It provides great education and offers discounted drug screens. Our business receives a discount on group medical insurance through our membership with the Chamber. They also promote a very positive reinforcement to the community’s organizations and serves as an excellent networking source.” Bethany Hospice and Palliative Care, LLC is located at 2700 N Oak St Building A and B in Valdosta, and can be contacted by calling 229-249-8687. You can also visit them online at www.bethany-hospice.com.  Hi, I’m Hannah! I am an upcoming senior at Valdosta State University. As a Journalism major, I was offered the opportunity to join the Valdosta Chamber media team as an intern. That means you’ll be hearing from me more often! I am looking forward to sharing blog posts about the most remarkable people and places that make this community so great, and I welcome all your questions and commentary. Having been a member of the Valdosta Community for the past 8 years, I have seen the Valdosta and Lowndes County area grow and thrive over time. As a veteran, I greatly desire to give back to the community that was so supportive of Moody AFB, where I served 6 years as a prior member of the United States Air Force. I have a great love and knowledge for this wonderful area, and I am excited to be a part of such a qualified team. I look forward to serving you as a part-time member of your Chamber. You can reach me at media@valdostachamber.com |
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