Events for April 2017
Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce
Apr 4    SMART START BUSINESS 101 COURSE SPRING 2017

SMART START BUSINESS 101 COURSE

Business 101 is not Your Ordinary Training Program!

  • All-inclusive 9-week customized program that includes real world expertise from small business owners
  • Offers the opportunity for participants to have all their questions and concerns answered
  • Participate in strategic planning
  • Establish a firm foundation of what small business is all about

Who Needs This Program:

  • New business start-up or growing business (that need a refresher)
  • Employees of a small business that want to add value and support in their job
  • Anyone desiring knowledge and growth of entrepreneurship and how a business works

We Believe:

…that the road to success begins with a passion for an idea, a business plan on research and analysis, and the persistence to pursue the vision and by attending Business 101 will ensure your success.

Our Offer to YOU:

  • Fees to attend this event are all-inclusive for the 9-week program
  • Cost to attend is a $275 investment (Ask about how to qualify for a scholarship)
  • CEU’s and CNE's available

Better Answers. Better Decisions

Key Takeaways:

Session 1 - Entrepreneurship:  Becoming and Entrepreneur

Session 2 – Business Management:  Financial Information and Business Success

Session 3 – Legal Entities and Intellectual Property

Spring Break     

Session 4 – Business Planning: Market Research   

Session 5 – Market Analysis – Why the ideal target market is important

Session 6 – How important is making a profit?

Session 7 – Social Media and Websites and Marketing Strategies

Session 8 – Financial Statements and Cash Flow – What's the Big Deal

Session 9 – Financing, Crowdfunding & SBA


Please contact Donna Whitten with any questions at 256-686-2999 or donna@alabamaincubator.com

Date: April 4, 2017
Time: 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Website: http://alabamaincubator.com
Location: Where: Decatur-Morgan County Entrepreneurial Center, 1629 4th Ave SE, Decatur 
Contact: Contact Donna Whitten - Program Director for E-Center
EMail: info@alabamaincubator.com
Date/Time Details: When: 9 consecutive Tuesday evenings beginning March 7th, 2017, 5:30pm - 9:00pm 
Fees/Admission:

Cost: $275 (income based scholarships are available) 

*Ask about how to qualify for a scholarship by calling 256-686-2999 or emailing donna@alabamaincubator.com

Have questions about Business 101 Spring 2017 Class? 
Apr 6    2017 Annual Meeting
The Chamber's Annual Meeting is set for Thursday, April 6, 2017, and will be hosted by The Doubletree by Hilton Decatur Riverfront.

To RSVP, click here
Date: April 6, 2017
Time: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: The Doubletree by Hilton
Decatur Riverfront
Contact: Louise Brown
EMail: louise@dcc.org
Date/Time Details: Thursday, April 6
11:30 a.m.
Fees/Admission: $35 for members, $45 for non-members
Apr 10    Take Back The Night!
In recognition of April's National Sexual Assault Awareness Month, join the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Oakwood University, Alabama A&M University, Crisis Services of North Alabama and AshaKiran as we team up with university students and the community for Huntsville's 1st 'Take Back the Night' march to shatter the silence, end the violence and make a stand against sexual violence. 'Take Back the Night' events are held nationally and internationally with the mission of ending sexual, relationship, and domestic violence in all forms. For more information on 'Take Back the Night' campaign: www.takebackthenight.org #HSVTakesBackTheNight https://www.facebook.com/events/165083697337858/
Date: April 10, 2017
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Website: https://www.facebook.com/events/165083697337858/
Location: UAH, Charger Union, 4705 Holmes Ave NW, Huntsville, AL
Contact: Karessa Acosta Lee phone: 2568241502 e-mail: karessa.acosta.lee@uah.edu
EMail: karessa.acosta.lee@uah.edu
Date/Time Details: April 10 / 6PM - 8PM
Fees/Admission: FREE
Apr 11    SMART START BUSINESS 101 COURSE SPRING 2017

SMART START BUSINESS 101 COURSE

Business 101 is not Your Ordinary Training Program!

  • All-inclusive 9-week customized program that includes real world expertise from small business owners
  • Offers the opportunity for participants to have all their questions and concerns answered
  • Participate in strategic planning
  • Establish a firm foundation of what small business is all about

Who Needs This Program:

  • New business start-up or growing business (that need a refresher)
  • Employees of a small business that want to add value and support in their job
  • Anyone desiring knowledge and growth of entrepreneurship and how a business works

We Believe:

…that the road to success begins with a passion for an idea, a business plan on research and analysis, and the persistence to pursue the vision and by attending Business 101 will ensure your success.

Our Offer to YOU:

  • Fees to attend this event are all-inclusive for the 9-week program
  • Cost to attend is a $275 investment (Ask about how to qualify for a scholarship)
  • CEU’s and CNE's available

Better Answers. Better Decisions

Key Takeaways:

Session 1 - Entrepreneurship:  Becoming and Entrepreneur

Session 2 – Business Management:  Financial Information and Business Success

Session 3 – Legal Entities and Intellectual Property

Spring Break     

Session 4 – Business Planning: Market Research   

Session 5 – Market Analysis – Why the ideal target market is important

Session 6 – How important is making a profit?

Session 7 – Social Media and Websites and Marketing Strategies

Session 8 – Financial Statements and Cash Flow – What's the Big Deal

Session 9 – Financing, Crowdfunding & SBA


Please contact Donna Whitten with any questions at 256-686-2999 or donna@alabamaincubator.com

Date: April 11, 2017
Time: 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Website: http://alabamaincubator.com
Location: Where: Decatur-Morgan County Entrepreneurial Center, 1629 4th Ave SE, Decatur 
Contact: Contact Donna Whitten - Program Director for E-Center
EMail: info@alabamaincubator.com
Date/Time Details: When: 9 consecutive Tuesday evenings beginning March 7th, 2017, 5:30pm - 9:00pm 
Fees/Admission:

Cost: $275 (income based scholarships are available) 

*Ask about how to qualify for a scholarship by calling 256-686-2999 or emailing donna@alabamaincubator.com

Have questions about Business 101 Spring 2017 Class? 
Apr 12    Newcomers Club of Decatur Luncheon & Business Meeting

The Newcomers Club of Decatur is open to more than just newcomers. New to the area? Retired? Widowed? Empty nest? Just want to make new friends?

If you live in Decatur or the surrounding area, you are welcome!

Come play cards, go on field trips, enjoy coffee in each other's homes and take new adventures together!
 
Our luncheon/business meeting is the second Wednesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. for $15 at Burningtree Country Club (2521 Burningtree Drive, SE). 
 
If you would like to join us please make a reservation by emailing newcomerslunch@gmail.com. 

Date: April 12, 2017
Time: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Location: Burningtree Country Club
2521 Burningtree Drive, SE
EMail: newcomerslunch@gmail.com
Date/Time Details: Second Wednesday of each month
10:30 a.m.
Fees/Admission: $15
Apr 15    Junior League of Morgan Co. Children's Shoe Drive
The Provisional Class of The Junior League of Morgan County is hosting a Children's Shoe Drive on April 15, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.n front of Old Navy. We will be accepting new and gently used shoes to benefit Clothe Our Kids of Morgan County.

Clothe Our Kids of Morgan County is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide clothing and shoes to children in need in Morgan County, Alabama. 
http://www.waff.com/story/34533727/bobbys-bama-clothe-our-kids

If you cannot make it to the drive, please contact jlmorgancounty@gmail.com to arrange a pickup.
Date: April 15, 2017
Time: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Location:

Old Navy
The Crossings of Decatur    

EMail: jlmorgancounty@gmail.com
Date/Time Details: April 15
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Apr 18    SMART START BUSINESS 101 COURSE SPRING 2017

SMART START BUSINESS 101 COURSE

Business 101 is not Your Ordinary Training Program!

  • All-inclusive 9-week customized program that includes real world expertise from small business owners
  • Offers the opportunity for participants to have all their questions and concerns answered
  • Participate in strategic planning
  • Establish a firm foundation of what small business is all about

Who Needs This Program:

  • New business start-up or growing business (that need a refresher)
  • Employees of a small business that want to add value and support in their job
  • Anyone desiring knowledge and growth of entrepreneurship and how a business works

We Believe:

…that the road to success begins with a passion for an idea, a business plan on research and analysis, and the persistence to pursue the vision and by attending Business 101 will ensure your success.

Our Offer to YOU:

  • Fees to attend this event are all-inclusive for the 9-week program
  • Cost to attend is a $275 investment (Ask about how to qualify for a scholarship)
  • CEU’s and CNE's available

Better Answers. Better Decisions

Key Takeaways:

Session 1 - Entrepreneurship:  Becoming and Entrepreneur

Session 2 – Business Management:  Financial Information and Business Success

Session 3 – Legal Entities and Intellectual Property

Spring Break     

Session 4 – Business Planning: Market Research   

Session 5 – Market Analysis – Why the ideal target market is important

Session 6 – How important is making a profit?

Session 7 – Social Media and Websites and Marketing Strategies

Session 8 – Financial Statements and Cash Flow – What's the Big Deal

Session 9 – Financing, Crowdfunding & SBA


Please contact Donna Whitten with any questions at 256-686-2999 or donna@alabamaincubator.com

Date: April 18, 2017
Time: 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Website: http://alabamaincubator.com
Location: Where: Decatur-Morgan County Entrepreneurial Center, 1629 4th Ave SE, Decatur 
Contact: Contact Donna Whitten - Program Director for E-Center
EMail: info@alabamaincubator.com
Date/Time Details: When: 9 consecutive Tuesday evenings beginning March 7th, 2017, 5:30pm - 9:00pm 
Fees/Admission:

Cost: $275 (income based scholarships are available) 

*Ask about how to qualify for a scholarship by calling 256-686-2999 or emailing donna@alabamaincubator.com

Have questions about Business 101 Spring 2017 Class? 
Apr 21    2017 Spring Golf Classic
The Spring Golf Classic is set for Friday, April 21, and will be hosted by Burningtree Country Club in Decatur. Teams for the event are sold through the Chamber's Total Resource Campaign (TRC) initiative, and registration is now closed. For more information about buying a team or any other sponsorship for 2018, please contact the Chamber at (256) 353-5312.
Date: April 21, 2017
Contact: Grant Thompson
EMail: grant@dcc.org
Apr 21    Habitat for Humanity Benefit Golf Scramble
Habitat and Wesley have partnered for 15 years to build houses for local families in need. Wesley just concluded a build on Denver Place in 2016 and is already looking to the future for their next build. All families EARN their homes by completing 300 to 400 hours of sweat equity, attending monthly classes, building oth-er families’ homes and even-tually receiving their own home which is secured with a 30 year mortgage (at 0% interest). You can experience the blessing of making a “dream come true” for a hard-working family while becom-ing the hands and feet of Je-sus. Who knows, that family may be interested in a new church home!

For more information, click here
Date: April 21, 2017
Location: Decatur County Club
Contact: Landis Griffin
EMail: Landis@morganhabitat.org
Date/Time Details: Friday, April 21
1 p.m. shotgun start
Fees/Admission: $400 Team Sponsor / As a Team sponsor you receive one team to play in the tournament, lunch and carts are included

$100 Individual / Lunch, 18 holes of Golf and cart

Other sponsorship opportunities are available.
Apr 25    2017 YP Leadership Luncheon - April
The YP Leadership Luncheon series is an opportunity for members of the under-40 crowd across Morgan County to both connect and socialize while developing their leadership skills. This one-hour program coincides with the traditional lunch hour where attendees can enjoy lunch and develop their careers and community. 
 
Ashley McIntyre is a Decatur native, owner and exclusive agent of an Allstate
 Insurance Agency in Decatur. Prior to beginning his career with Allstate, he worked as an employee of both Hoover City Schools and Decatur City Schools. He taught math and coached football and softball for six years, served as assistant principal of Oak Park Middle School for three years, and finished his career in education as principal of Oak Park from 2010-2015.  

He is actively engaged in our community as an active member of the Decatur Lions Club, the Morgan County Association of Realtors Affiliate Council, the Chamber and serves as board chair CASA of North Alabama. Active in his church home of First Bible, he and his wife, Aryn, and daughter, Maggie, live in Decatur. 
 
McIntyre plans to discuss how he evaluated his change of careers and ways to help young professionals their own career direction. 
 
We are excited to continue this series for our young professional community and we encourage you to bring guests and co-workers. YP Leadership Luncheon is presented by Ascend Performance Materials with lunch sponsored by Kiwanis of Decatur. Tickets for the event are $10 for Chamber members and $15 for non-members, which includes lunch (to confirm your membership, click here). Seating for this event is limited, so we encourage you to make your reservation soon.

To RSVP, click here.

 

Date: April 25, 2017
Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Location: First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall
805 Canal Street NE
Contact: Grant Thompson
EMail: grant@dcc.org
Date/Time Details: Tuesday, April 25
12 - 1 p.m.
Fees/Admission: $10 for members, $15 for non-members
Apr 25    SMART START BUSINESS 101 COURSE SPRING 2017

SMART START BUSINESS 101 COURSE

Business 101 is not Your Ordinary Training Program!

  • All-inclusive 9-week customized program that includes real world expertise from small business owners
  • Offers the opportunity for participants to have all their questions and concerns answered
  • Participate in strategic planning
  • Establish a firm foundation of what small business is all about

Who Needs This Program:

  • New business start-up or growing business (that need a refresher)
  • Employees of a small business that want to add value and support in their job
  • Anyone desiring knowledge and growth of entrepreneurship and how a business works

We Believe:

…that the road to success begins with a passion for an idea, a business plan on research and analysis, and the persistence to pursue the vision and by attending Business 101 will ensure your success.

Our Offer to YOU:

  • Fees to attend this event are all-inclusive for the 9-week program
  • Cost to attend is a $275 investment (Ask about how to qualify for a scholarship)
  • CEU’s and CNE's available

Better Answers. Better Decisions

Key Takeaways:

Session 1 - Entrepreneurship:  Becoming and Entrepreneur

Session 2 – Business Management:  Financial Information and Business Success

Session 3 – Legal Entities and Intellectual Property

Spring Break     

Session 4 – Business Planning: Market Research   

Session 5 – Market Analysis – Why the ideal target market is important

Session 6 – How important is making a profit?

Session 7 – Social Media and Websites and Marketing Strategies

Session 8 – Financial Statements and Cash Flow – What's the Big Deal

Session 9 – Financing, Crowdfunding & SBA


Please contact Donna Whitten with any questions at 256-686-2999 or donna@alabamaincubator.com

Date: April 25, 2017
Time: 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Website: http://alabamaincubator.com
Location: Where: Decatur-Morgan County Entrepreneurial Center, 1629 4th Ave SE, Decatur 
Contact: Contact Donna Whitten - Program Director for E-Center
EMail: info@alabamaincubator.com
Date/Time Details: When: 9 consecutive Tuesday evenings beginning March 7th, 2017, 5:30pm - 9:00pm 
Fees/Admission:

Cost: $275 (income based scholarships are available) 

*Ask about how to qualify for a scholarship by calling 256-686-2999 or emailing donna@alabamaincubator.com

Have questions about Business 101 Spring 2017 Class? 
Apr 27    Calhoun Jazz Band "Jazz Under the Stars"
A free, family-friendly outdoor jazz concert featuring music performed by Calhoun's jazz band, under the direction of Jimmy Cantrell. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and a picnic dinner or visit any of the downtown restaurants.
Date: April 27, 2017
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Website: http://calhoun.edu/jazz
Location: Alabama Center for the Arts 2nd Avenue, across from the Princess Theatre
Contact: Contact the Calhoun Department of Public Affairs and Institutional Advancement at 256-306-2560
EMail: janet.martin@calhoun.edu
Date/Time Details: Thursday, April 27, 6-8pm
Fees/Admission: Free admission
Apr 28    2017 Breakfast & Biz: When does Google love you?
How do you decide on your target audience and which mediums to use? What marketing strategies will help increase your revenue? How do you incorporate creativity in your business to keep up with today's consumer?

The Chamber is excited to welcome Heather Boozer, a small business counselor at the Small Business Development Center at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. She is also an award-winning and published small business owner and has been in the position of doing her own market research, strategic planning and small business financing for her event planning firm. Heather is currently enrolled in the Executive MBA program at the University of North Alabama and holds an undergraduate degree in business administration from Auburn University.
 
The Chamber's Breakfast & Biz business development training and networking session provides ongoing support for our local business partners. The event is $10 for Chamber members and $25 for non-members. To confirm your membership status, please click here. We ask that you RSVP by Monday, April 24.

To RSVP, click here

Breakfast & Biz is presented by Redstone Federal Credit Union, with breakfast sponsored by The Terrace at Priceville.
Date: April 28, 2017
Time: 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM
Location: The Magnolia Room
216 Moulton Street E    
Contact: Crystal Brown
EMail: crystal@dcc.org
Date/Time Details: Friday, April 28
7:30 a.m.
Fees/Admission: $10 for members, $25 for non-members.
Apr 28    Columbia Cottage - Spring Fling
The community is invited to join us for an afternoon of family and! There will be refreshments, games, music, and Decatur Morgan Hospital’s mobile unit. We look forward to seeing everyone as we celebrate the new season!
Date: April 28, 2017
Time: 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Website: https://www.facebook.com/events/287521688344834/
Location: 1109 Sparkman St NW Hartselle AL 35640
Contact: Kelly McIntyre | 256.701.5668
Fees/Admission: Free Admission
Apr 30 - May 2    2017 Washington D.C. Trip

The Chamber's annual public policy trip to Washington D.C. is a great opportunity to access key policy makers while enjoying time with other Chamber members and local leaders. Done in partnership with the Huntsville-Madison County Chamber, the trip also serves as an opportunity to deliver our policy agenda to our representatives. Come join us!

Date: April 30, 2017
Location: Washington D.C.
Contact: John Seymour
EMail: john@dcc.org
Date/Time Details: April 30 - May 2, 2017
Fees/Admission: $650 before March 15; $675 afterwards. Spouse/guest rate is $200.
Apr 30    2017 Washington D.C. Trip - Sunday Dinner
The Sunday evening dinner during the Washington D.C. is an opportunity for members of the Decatur-Morgan County Chambers who made the trip to enjoy fellowship and hospitality the first night of the three-day trip. 

The Sunday dinner is presented by Valley Budweiser
Date: April 30, 2017
Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Location: TBD
Contact: John Seymour
EMail: john@dcc.org
Date/Time Details: Sunday, April 30
7 p.m.