B2B Stories

Bigger commitment to boost workforce training

The education and training needed to create a skilled workforce remain a top priority in Georgia. Gov. Brian Kemp (R) recently announced a change to the College & Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI), which is the state’s accountability system for schools. The changes, scheduled to take effect in 2025, are designed to promote high-demand career pathways, those that are aligned with an in-demand industry. “As the No. 1 state in the nation to do business, we have to prepare Georgians for the unprecedented opportunities coming our way, by equipping students

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Faith

Faith Friday: Divinely Directed

They were sitting near one another in a general psychology class at Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC. Jon says he noticed Rachel first. They began dating as sophomores, got engaged before their senior year, and were married shortly after graduation. This week, I’m having a conversation with Jon and Rachel Dawkins, owners/operators of the two Chick-fil-A restaurants in North Augusta. Jon had previously been a Chick-fil-A team member but was not working there when they met, Rachel was, started working there at the age of 15 years old. Jon

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B2B Podcasting

Impact of health on the workforce

A good-paying job makes it easier for workers to live in healthier neighborhoods, provide quality education for their children, secure childcare services, and buy more nutritious food—all of which affect health. Mike Petchenik has more in today’s Biz Bits.

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Shawna Woodward

Real Talk Real Estate: A Buyer’s Journey: The Dance Between New Homes and Old Charms

One of the most common debates on what home to buy revolves around an age-old question: Is it better to buy a brand new home, or should you opt for the character of a time-tested older home? This decision can cause your head to spin and may bring stress that steals the joy associated with home ownership. So, let’s walk through the pros and cons of both, and maybe, just maybe, find the key to unlock the door of your dream home. Let’s start with the pros of buying a

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B2B Podcasting

The rewards of business mentoring

It is rewarding to help entrepreneurs start and grow their business. Score is a volunteer organization dedicated to helping with start-ups or expanding a business. Are you ready to put all your business knowledge to good use? Please watch this short video. For more information on mentoring for SCORE, click here www.greateraiken.score.org.

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B2B Stories

Columbia County Chamber touts new workforce development center

The Georgia Chamber of Commerce announced a new center targeting workforce development, and the Columbia County Chamber is ready to tap into it. The Center for Workforce and Talent Preparedness was announced on Jan. 10 at the annual Eggs and Issues breakfast. “This new strategic initiative was created to lead the state through an unprecedented talent transformation,” said Daniela Perry, Vice President of the Georgia Chamber Foundation in a news release announcing the center. “Talent continues to be the number one issue facing our members. The Center for Workforce and

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Darin Myers

Coach Darin: How to cultivate a “goal-focused” CEO mindset

The coming of a new year is the best time to re-think the past year’s professional and personal goals and start cultivating new goals for the weeks and months ahead. Of necessity, this means tearing yourself away from day-to-day operations and thinking more in terms of long-range strategy. Why is this important? Aligning your personal goals with those of your organization “bolsters employee morale, demonstrating that their leader shares the company’s aspirations,” notes Success Consciousness. This can build trust and bolster employee engagement. At the same time, it’s vital that business

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B2B Podcasting

Cracking down on slumlords

Based on Georgia law, how much autonomy does the city have in putting a stop to run-down housing and the slumlords who own them? We are about to find out. Mike Petchenik has the story in today’s Biz Bits.

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Consumer Stories

Elections in movies

This week, Monday night to be exact, saw the Iowa’s Presidential Caucuses, which commence the 2024 election cycle (incidentally, taking place during the height of Hollywood’s own campaign season). Election nights feel somewhat like movies for the politically or socially intrigued: with results painting a picture of a shifting people while revealing strengths and weaknesses in candidates. 2020 felt more like an HBO Miniseries that wouldn’t end. Nevertheless, there are many movies where elections serve as a driving motivator for characters, a climax, or a chance to thwart the direction

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B2B Podcasting

Mentoring is sharing success

If you’ve been successful in business, why not spread the wealth by taking an up-and-coming business owner or entrepreneur under your wing? It’s a win/win. For more information on SCORE opportunities, click here.

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