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Previous Member Spotlights

 

Siemen's Power Generation, Inc.
1901 Briarwood Ave. S W
Fort Payne, AL 35967

 

The Siemens plant in Fort Payne is one of the six businesses within the parent company of Siemens AG headquartered in Munich Germany.

 

Designing and manufacturing electrical components for the power generation industry is the primary purpose of the company.  There are over 270 employees who are involved in the manufacturing of the state of the art power generation equipment that is shipped to power producers all over the world.

 

Companies such as TVA and Alabama Power right here in our own state use Siemens equipment to generate electricity that we all use to light our homes and enjoy our lives every day.

 

The parent company Siemens AG operates as an electronics and electrical engineering company worldwide that has sales of over $75 billion and employs 440,000.

 

 Vulcan Materials Company
2200 Godfrey Ave. S E
Fort Payne, AL 35967
256-845-2646
 

Vulcan Materials is the nation’s largest producer of construction aggregates – primarily crushed stone, sand, and gravel.  They are a leader in the production of other construction materials including asphalt and ready-mixed concrete.

 

Vulcan has operations in 20 states from coast to coast and the Yucatan peninsula of Mexico.  There are 22 facilities in Alabama.  The Fort Payne Quarry is the most recent acquired property for Vulcan.  The Fort Payne plant is ideally located to supply the aggregates and asphalt needs of the Northeast Alabama area. 

 

According to Mike Clarke, Vulcan’s Southern and Gulf Coast Division President, “This acquisition expands our division’s operations and presence in northeast Alabama.  We are excited about this new opportunity and look forward to becoming an integral part of the Fort Payne community.”

 

In 2007 and for the seventh year, Vulcan was recognized by Fortune magazine as one of America’s Most Admired Companies.

 

The Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and staff are proud to welcome Vulcan Materials Company to our town. 

 

 Vulcan Materials Company
2200 Godfrey Ave. S E
Fort Payne, AL 35967
256-845-2646
 

Vulcan Materials is the nation’s largest producer of construction aggregates – primarily crushed stone, sand, and gravel.  They are a leader in the production of other construction materials including asphalt and ready-mixed concrete.

 

Vulcan has operations in 20 states from coast to coast and the Yucatan peninsula of Mexico.  There are 22 facilities in Alabama.  The Fort Payne Quarry is the most recent acquired property for Vulcan.  The Fort Payne plant is ideally located to supply the aggregates and asphalt needs of the Northeast Alabama area. 

 

According to Mike Clarke, Vulcan’s Southern and Gulf Coast Division President, “This acquisition expands our division’s operations and presence in northeast Alabama.  We are excited about this new opportunity and look forward to becoming an integral part of the Fort Payne community.”

 

In 2007 and for the seventh year, Vulcan was recognized by Fortune magazine as one of America’s Most Admired Companies.

 

The Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and staff are proud to welcome Vulcan Materials Company to our town. 

 

Clawfoot Designs

211 Gault Avenue North
Fort Payne, AL 35967
256-845-9471
 

Bathtubs and so much more! 

Owner, Eric `Freddy` Warren  is a wealth of knowledge concerning products for historical renovations as well as other home décor items. Freddy started creating faucets that were replicas of those in the old homes.  The next thing he knew, people were seeking him out to obtain his creations.  In 1991, he opened the first Clawfoot Design store in Long Beach.  In 2005, Fort Payne welcomed his second store. Fort Payne is very fortunate to have such a vocal supporter of our town.  Freddy reminded me of all the positive attributes of living in this area.  His experience of living in a faster pace world has given him a greater appreciation of our Southern culture.

 

 

 

DeKalb County Sheriff's  Mounted Unit

1208 Jordan Rd. S W

256-845-8565

 

The Mounted Unit was formed in 2002 under the direction of Lieutenant Jimmy Harris who also served as its first commander.

After his election in November, 2006, Sheriff Harris appointed former Assistant Sheriff of Etowah County and Commander of the Etowah Mounted Unit, Kirby Johnston, as the Unit`s Commander.

The Mounted Unit serves the citizens of DeKalb County by providing mounted law enforcement when needed.  Mounted search and rescue is also an important service provided by the Unit. 

 After Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast, the Unit provided numerous search and rescue missions in the Mississippi coast area.

 All Unit members furnish their own equipment including uniforms, horses and weapons.  There is no cost to the County for the services provided by the Unit.  Funds are generated by donations from individuals and corporate contributions.  Money is also earned by working security at the Talladega Races and other functions where mounted law enforcement is needed.

 

Blackstock Orthopaedic Surgery

1100 DeKalb Plaza Blvd. S W

Fort Payne, AL 35967

256-845-7444 

 

Dr. Stephen Blackstock is an orthopaedic surgeon.  He specializes in joint replacement and general orthopaedics.  He is available for clients in our area on Tuesday and Thursday. We want to thank Dr. Blackstock and Champion Rehab for hosting our first Business After - Hours event.

 
Cherokee Hosiery Mill
208 35th St. N E
845-0004
  

 Today’s technology has provided computerized equipment that can take the production from threading the needles to placing the finished socks in plastic bags ready for shipping without the touch of human hands. Kevin Pendergrass, Cherokee Hosiery Mill plant manager, will welcome the public on May 31st at 7:30 AM to the Chamber’s monthly coffee.  A tour of the plant will be provided.  The plant is located at 208 35th Street NE, Fort Payne. 

Santa Fe Cattle Co.
305 Ruby Tuesday Ln.
Fort Payne, AL 35967
 
The Fort Payne Chamber wishes to extend congratulations to the Santa Fe Cattle Company for opening such a unique restaurant. 

The Chamber is proud to have them as part of our membership as well as a viable partner in our business community.

 

Ole Heritage Realty, Inc.
604 Gault Avenue South
Fort Payne, AL 35967
256-997-0008

With personal customer service as the number one priority, Chadwick Plumbing does not have an answering machine for customer calls.  An employee will answer questions twenty four hours a day and seven days a week.  

 

 

 DCHS Sports

DCHS Sports created and produced by local Fort Payne resident, Steve Black has been on the air for almost 9 months. It broadcasts every Tuesday and Thursday night on local cable channel 46 in Fort Payne.  The broadcast begins at 6 PM and runs till 10 PM.Events included in the broadcast are boy's and girls high school sports, dramas, calendar girl competitions, graduations, and occasional interviews with coaches and administrators. The schools currently included in the broadcast are Fort Payne, Ider, Valley Head, Sylvania & Plainview. For those who don't have cable, highlights of the broadcasts can be viewed @ www.dchsvideo.com.“We live in a great community and I guess you could say this broadcast is my way of bragging about it! Our businesses are community oriented, our youth are intelligent and athletic, and our school administrators, teachers and staff are genuinely concerned about the well being of our youth.For more info or if your interest in advertising on the broadcast, you can call Steve at 256-996-5049 or email him at steve@dchsvideo.com

Hammer's

400 Gault Ave. N

(across from Union Park)

844-8668

 

On behalf of the Chamber of Commerce, I want to extend a Fort Payne welcome to Hammer’s. This new department store brings a unique shopping experience to our town.  Located across from Union Park, Hammer’s inventory includes a wide range of items including home décor as well as the latest fashions for the family.  The selection of hunting apparel will meet the needs of the most avid hunter.

Bob Hammer, owner, is part of the family who operate 10 stores throughout Tennessee and North Alabama. According to Bob, “the customers’ guessing what is coming in next and when the shipment will arrive has been the enticement for repeat shoppers.  Merchandize is here today and gone tomorrow.”  Bob is very excited about the new shipment of spring items. I encourage everyone to stop by and meet Fort Payne’s newest ambassador, the employees of Hammer’s.

Dixie Machine Shop

2012 Airport Road West

Fort Payne, AL 35968

256-845-4752

 

The capability of manufacturing industrial parts locally has saved many industries in our area time and money.  Charles Stephens' goal is to sell more durable parts that are cost effective for the various industries.  This self-taught machinist is grateful for the GI Bill that allowed him to obtain diplomas from the Gadsden Trade School as well as from Northeast Alabama Community College.  The local industries are very fortunate to have someone as dedicated as Charles for the past 30 years trying to improve their manufacturing equipment.

 

Bryant's Heating & Cooling, Inc.

300 8th St. S E

Fort Payne, AL 35967

256-845-1742

 

“The Man in the Hat” is Howard Bryant, owner of Bryant’s Heating and Cooling, Inc. 

Honesty and fair service has made Bryant Heating and Cooling, Inc. successful.  Howard’s technicians are not only North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certified, but must have a high degree of ethics.  These important qualifications have made this Chamber Business Member very successful for 26 years.

 

Jinni's
115 Grand Ave. North
845-2454

Jinni`s, located at 115 Grand Avenue, North, can be any woman`s guide through this transition.  Virginia Hicks, owner, has been in the retail clothing business since 1958 when she began working for the Worth Ratliffe Company.  With the acquisition of a Small Business loan in 1984, Virginia opened Jinni`s.

During our interview, I realized the emphasis was to make the customer enjoy coming to the store.  Virginia and her employees are very helpful and cater to the wants and needs of their long standing customers.  In fact everyone seems to come to the store to `visit` while shopping. Fort Payne is very fortunate that her love for people and a wealth of determination has kept Jinni`s a strong part of downtown shopping. Call Jinni`s at 845-2454 or visit the shop to find the latest fall fashions for women. 

 

Brown's Cleaning

817 Gault Ave. North

Fort Payne, AL

256-845-3241

 

 

Joe’s family has been involved in the dry cleaning business since 1920.  He has the original bill of sale dated September 1, 1933, for the family’s first owned business.  According to Joe, the dry cleaning business has not changed very much except for the federal regulations regarding the chemicals.  These safe guards are not only for the public but also the employees.

 

The Browns have tried to instill a strong work ethic and a sense of community pride not only in their children but also their employees.  

To be successful in business, one must travel a two way street.  Fort Payne has been good to us and therefore we must give back to the community.” The Brown family is certainly doing just that.  Their involvement can be seen in many of the projects of Landmarks of DeKalb County.

The Browns’ next challenge will be the compilation of the history of the local veterans of World War II.  Many people have sent photos and articles.  Don Wood and Lib Howard have been very helpful during this tremendous task  

 

Boom Days Heritage Celebration

September 23, 2006

Downtown Fort Payne

 

The Boomdays Heritage Celebration is THIS WEEKEND.  This art and musical event will bring a tremendous amount of visitors to Fort Payne. Citizens of Fort Payne are taking a second look at their past and the heritage passed down to them through the arts and crafts of our area.  The Boom Days Heritage Celebration will feature many of these facets in the presentation of musical performances as well as displays in Union Park.  For a detailed listing of musicians and artist, visit the Chamber`s website, fortpayne.com, or stop by the office at 300 Grand Avenue, N.

 

V.R. Scott Jewelry

104 Gault Avenue North

Fort Payne, AL 35967

256-845-2525

 

Van Scott began his career in the jewelry business before he could see over the counters.  At age 10 he was helping his father, V.R. Scott, establish one of the oldest businesses in Fort Payne.  In 1944, V. R. opened his jewelry store across from the Rainey Hotel.  He moved to the present location in 1962.  After 60 years, V.R. Scott Jewelry is creating lifelong memories under the guidance of Van.

Good customer service will create business. He believes that his location is great due to the fact that he is located in close proximity to two banks, restaurants, City Hall, and Post Office.

 According to Van, a downtown business must have current merchandise for sale and must be replenished often.  Respect for the customer in trying to meet special needs is a must.  Van creates very few hand made pieces today.  With all the various jewelry suppliers, customers can usually order items with his guidance.

The Chamber is proud to have V.R. Scott Jewelry as a member.  More importantly, this 60 year old business has been part of the changing history of Fort Payne.  From class rings to wedding rings, Van and his family have been a part of “family” memories.

Custom Words

2304 Gault Ave. North

Fort Payne, AL 35967

997-9765

In 1990 Bobby Hamby`s life long dream became a reality.  He opened Custom Words, Inc.  During these sixteen years, Fort Payne citizens have been afforded the many advantages of a local unique computer sales and service company.  Individuals as well as businesses of all sizes have benefited from Bobby’s expertise created by 30 years of experience in the computer field.

 

Bobby thinks that the Sales Tax Holiday will be a great benefit for Fort Payne shoppers.  He will have a large inventory of Dell and custom built computers that will be on sale at 10% off.  By shopping locally during the first weekend in August, people will actually be able to purchase computers cheaper than shopping on line.  The hours for Custom Words will be 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during the tax free holiday.

Custom Words provides computer repair for a flat fee not an hourly charge.  A customer can expect local technical support without hidden charges.

 

 Archie's

"Fine Food and Great Music" 

110 Gault Avenue North

 

Creating a supper club was Archies dream since becoming a professional entertainer in 1978.  With the encouragement of family and the community, Archie opened his restaurant with the goal of providing fine food and great music.  Patrons can enjoy his international cuisine in a beautiful setting including white tablecloths without traveling out of town!  Archies is located at 110 Gault Avenue, N.  Lunch is served 11-2 Monday thru Friday and dinner service begins at 5:00 PM Monday thru Saturday. He wants to create a fine dining restaurant that serves cocktails if the customer so desires not a bar that also serves food.

 

Fort Payne School of Performing Arts

101 Gault Avenue North

Fort Payne, AL 35967

1-256-845-2510

 The Fort Payne School of Performing Arts presented “Name That Tune” on May 6th.  The overall tune for this business should be “I Believe”.  Kelly and David Gwarjanski, owners, have been a part of downtown Fort Payne for over 16 years.  After talking with Kelly, I realized that she is a tremendous supporter of our business community.  The introductory page for the performance even promotes downtown.  She believes that if downtown is alive and well, then the City as a whole will continue to improve.

 

Kelly and her staff of 16 teach various aspects of performing art including gymnastics, ballet, clogging, cheerleading, and voice.  Classes range from three year olds to early 60’s.  Kelly has always dreamed of creating an all inclusive performing arts and competition center within the same facility. 

 

Her success can be seen not only in the student’s ability to compete but also in improved social skills.  A scholarship program was developed for children enrolled in the Fort Payne School System.  The recipients are determined by the school teacher.

All of the 340 participants in the program share one belief:  “I am a star. I know because Miss Kelly thinks so.”  Ninety-nine percent of obtaining a goal is to believe in one’s self.  Thank you Kelly for developing self esteem in Fort Payne’s citizens.

 

 

Sequoyah Caverns

1438 County Road 731

Valley Head, AL  35989

1-800-843-5098

www.sequoyahcaverns.com

 

Sequoyah Caverns and the Ellis Homestead are owned and operated by the Jones family.  Roy and his father, John David, work together on the day to day operation of the farm and the caverns.  His daughter, Rebecca, works as a tour guide while younger son, John Paul, helps out with the other chores. 

 

This family work ethics began with Roy’s great, great, great grandfather, James Ellis, who was the original settler of the land in 1841.  After the tough years of the Civil War, the farm began to prosper by growing corn, cotton, wheat and oats, making sorghum, and raising sheep and cattle.  Today, one can be taken back in time by watching the daily operation of the farm.  Camping, horseback riding, fishing, gem mining, or cave exploration are activities that people of all ages can enjoy.  One of the most popular tours is the Wild Cave Adventure.  During this intense guided trip into the cave, explorers to get to see parts of the cave that others do not.  The candlelight tours will begin Memorial Day weekend. Call Roy at 256-635-0024 or visit the website at www.sequoyahcaverns.com.

 

I encourage everyone to visit Sequoyah Caverns and the Ellis Homestead.  You can plan your vacation escape with very little cost due to the savings in the cost of gas.  I can assure you there are things to do for every one of all ages.  I am so pleased to have Roy Jones as a member of the board of directors for the Chamber.  He brings a family attitude combined with a business mind to help in creating the future of the Chamber.

House of Fabric

316 Gault Avenue North

Fort Payne, AL 35967

256-845-5561

 

Jo and Paul Benefield started their business in 1975.  Jo operated the fabric store while Paul continued working for Rogers Culpepper, photographer.  After obtaining the Redford’s 5 & 10 store, Paul joined Jo to open the additional flower shop.  Jo remembers her first arrangement that was all peach in color.  After Paul’s death, the sons now help with the daily operation.  Each year thousands of Jo’s arrangements adorn graves throughout the area cemeteries. We still miss Paul’s smiling face as he made his morning visit to the Chamber Office.  We also thank Jo for helping to carry on the tradition of “Decoration Day” for so many of DeKalb County’s citizens.

MDA Professional Group PC

845-5637

 The largest privately owned CPA firm in North Alabama, MDA Professional Group PC, is a member of the Fort Pane Chamber.  With more than 100 employees, MDA does more than simply add up the numbers.  They focus on your financial goals to insure your success.  Whether they prepare tax returns, conduct an audit, or provide management services, MDA seeks ways to improve your financial condition. Call Andy Hyatt at 845-5637 for more than just filing your income tax.

 

Pyron & Shirey CPA Consulting Group

845-3212 

Another local accounting firm is Pyron and Shirey CPA Consulting Group.  The firm has been in existence since the seventies, but now with a new name and attitude.  John Pyron and Todd Shirey offer the traditional accounting services such as bookkeeping, payroll, tax preparation, and financial reporting as well as personal, business, and technology consulting.  They work with their clients, both large and small, building a close relationship and are continually looking for better ways to serve them.  Call John or Todd at 845-3212.

 
 
"S" House Antiques
112 Gault Avenue North
256-844-2995
 

I often wonder how people decide the name of their business.  Such was the case with ``S`` House Antiques.  I got my answer during a wonderful conversation with Bill Head, the owner.  It seems that the previous owner of his house on Santa Rosa Beach had an ``S`` placed on the chimney.  The house became known by the locals as the S House.  No other name would be suitable for his art gallery and antique shop which Bill opened in the house in 1985.

Bill and his wife Polly met while teaching at Henagar Junior High School.  Even though the antique business in Florida was a dream for both of them after retirement, they wanted to return to DeKalb County.  While visiting Fort Payne, they purchased the Chitwood estate.  Three years ago they started the move home.      

Bill describes himself as a ``pack rat``.  Buying, selling, and collecting has always been a passion for him.  He is in the antique business not to get rich but considers it therapy.  I could see the excitement in his eyes as he talked about purchasing items even during his recent month absence from the store due to sickness.  The Chamber welcomes Bill back and encourages shoppers to experience the past in his collections.

 
 
 
 Roger's Pawn Music & Jewelry
232 Gault Avenue North
Fort Payne, AL 35967 
256-845-4115

 

Do you desire a musical instrument or a new piece of jewelry?  Or do you have too many of these items and wish to sell them?  You need to visit Roger’s Pawn Shop located at 232 Gault Avenue, N.  Roger McDowell opened his shop 24 years ago.  Roger’s wish to have his own business started when he was performing in Myrtle Beach and also selling sterling jewelry.  He saw a need for a store that offered these items in his hometown. He considers his business as a small “mom and pop” operation where the customer is the priority. Many customers bring items to pawn.  They are offered a return of 30 days if purchased again or 15 days for cash advances.  He has built the store’s reputation on the good relationships that he has with his customers.  According to Roger, “We always stand behind what we sell.”

 
 
Satellite Air Charter
845-9556
Just imagine having the ability to
dictate the details of your trip that 
require air travel. You can do just 
that from Fort Payne. Satellite Air 
Charter can afford you the opportunity 
to be in control. Their Cessna 414A 
can safely and quickly take you to 
wherever you need to be, whenever 
you need to be there. You can reduce 
the number of hotel stays and man-days 
away from work. There is no lost luggage 
or missed flights. You can leave and return 
on your schedule. The arrival and departure 
from smaller airports puts you much closer 
to your final destination. Call Gil Graham at 
Satellite Air Charter, 845-9556, to book your 
next flight. 
"At Satellite Air Charter, you are in control!"
 

Violets
601 Gault Ave. SE suite 100
256-844-4798

Violets opened in October 2002, with the purpose of creating a unique floral experience for their customers.

Owners Chris and Cheri Long take a different approach to floral designing. Cheri stated "We love the unusual and have a flair for color. Our slogan "unique floral experience" is exactly what we want for our customers and for our shop." Violets has six employees. Georgia Stevens, head designer, has been in the floral industry for over 20 years. Designer Michelle Pasquill has over twelve years of experience. Nicholas McAbe and Melanie Curtis drive the purple van around delivering smiles all over town.

Eagle View Home Inspection, LLC
256-635-6746

Eagle View Home Inspection, LLC provides an unbiased, professional, visual analysis of the condition of a home.  Glenn Phillips, inspector, is licensed by the Alabama Building Commission and is bonded and insured according to state guidelines.  He performs HUD and USDA structural inspections, new home constructions as well as structural inspections for lending agencies.  Complete home inspections include the electrical system, plumbing and water heaters, heating and air units, insulation and ventilation.  General interior inspection includes areas such as ceilings, walls and floors, basement, windows, and doors.  Outside inspections include crawl space, roof, gutters, chimney, drainage and grading.  Glenn's inspection report will include a letter identifying major concerns, digital photos of throughout the home, and a check sheet of findings. Call Eagle View at 256-635-6746 before you purchase your next home.  

 

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