CHAMBER CONNECTION DECEM
BER 201
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Business Professionals Honored At Leadership Jackson Graduation
INSIDE: • Upcoming Events, Staff Directory Page 2
ABOVE: Leadership Jackson graduated thirty business professionals on Thursday, December 8. Thirty local business professionals graduated from the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce 2011 Leadership Jackson class on Thursday, December 8 at the Carl Grants Events Center at Union University. Leadership Jackson, the Chamber’s adult leadership development program, gives business professionals employed with Chamber member companies the opportunity to better understand the community and the challenges it faces. The three-month program gives class members the chance to visit community landmarks, meet with area leaders and participate in weekly sessions about issues impacting Jackson-Madison County, including education, healthcare and government. “The 2011 class has already demonstrated their passion for helping others through their service projects and their desire to continue to be servants beyond their class experience,” said Chris Ramey, Vice President of the Leadership Jackson Alumni Association Board of Directors. “This class graduated with an entirely new perspective of what it means to be a leader and a Jacksonian. They go forward with the knowledge that leading means to serve and not to be served.” During the graduation ceremony, class members were recognized for their achievements with an award ceremony and all class members received their Leadership Jackson graduate certificate of completion. Class Spokespersons selected by the class to share their reflections and impact of Leadership Jackson were Scott Conger, City Councilman/Lane College, and Landon Preston, Director of Donor Relations, Development, Union University. Preston was also selected to be Vice Chair of Leadership Jackson in 2012 to serve with Ty Cowles, Jackson Energy Authority, who served as Vice Chair in 2011 and will assume Chairmanship in 2012. Dr. Beverly Absher, Union University, was recognized for her outstanding leadership as Vice Chair of Leadership Jackson in 2010 and Chair for 2011.
“The Leadership Jackson Class of 2011 was truly amazing in every way,” Absher said. “Not only were they engaged and enthusiastic participants in each of the weekly sessions, they immediately began exercising traits of leadership by finding and meeting needs within the community prior to program completion. Class members developed several new community initiatives along with providing support to some of the existing organizations that serve the Jackson area. It was an honor to serve as Chair, working with co-chair, Ty Cowles, and the Chamber’s Senior Vice President, Business & Community Services, Judy Renshaw, in facilitating the Leadership Jackson program for 2011. Thanks to all the participants and this year’s speakers and program sponsors. And kudos to The Chamber for sponsoring this wonderful program.” Class members were also recognized for their commitment and personal growth with the jewel and diamond awards. Jewel award recipients were Sonya Miller; Carroll Kessens, Alexander Thompson Arnold, PLLC; Sandy Maxwell, Steele Martin Jones & Company, CPA’s; and Alison Bradford, First South Bank. Tammy Mays, Aspell Recovery Center, received the class’ highest honor – the diamond award, for her commitment in surpassing requirements in all aspects of Leadership Jackson. Past alumni of Leadership Jackson were also recognized. Bryce West, Bancorp South, Class of 2004, received the Community Observance of Personal Excellence (COPE) Award; Trey Rabon, AT&T, Class of 2009, with the Emerging Leader award; Jim Campbell, H&M Company, Inc., Class of 1979, for the Harbert Alexander Servant Leadership Award; and Lisa Webb, Jackson-Madison County School System, Class of 2006, for the Distinguished Leadership Award. “This class exemplifies servant leadership at its best,” said Judy Renshaw, Leadership Jackson Program Executive and Chamber Sr. Vice President. “They came
“Business Professionals Honored at Leadership Jackson Graduation” story continued on page 3...
• Promotions, Accomplishments & Special Recognition Page 3 - 5
• Jackson Industrial News Page 6
• Member Spotlight Page 7
• New Members Page 8
• Renewing Members Page9
• Ribbon Cuttings & Openings Page 10
• Economic Indicators Page 11
Visit Us Online At www.jacksontn.com
Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce
STAFF DIRECTORY
197 Auditorium Street Jackson, TN 38301 Phone: 731-423-2200
Kyle Spurgeon, President/CEO kspurgeon@jacksontn.com Tammy Boyd, Chief Administrative Officer tboyd@jacksontn.com Lisa Cothran, Manager, Membership Development lcothran@jacksontn.com Shirley Jones, Vice President, Public Affairs sajones@jacksontn.com Lori Nunnery, Executive Director, Convention & Visitors Bureau lnunnery@jacksontn.com Beth Parnell, Manager of Events bparnell@jacksontn.com Denise Perry, Receptionist dperry@jacksontn.com
Ryan Porter, Vice President, Strategic Initiatives and General Counsel rporter@jacksontn.com Judy Renshaw, Sr. Vice President, Business & Community Services jrenshaw@jacksontn.com
Stay Connected with the
Jackson Chamber
Megan Seals, Communications Coordinator mseals@jacksontn.com Brandy Stutsman, Administrative Assistant, Business Services & West Tennessee Business Resource Center bstutsman@jacksontn.com Carolyn Vaughan, Membership Development Coordinator cvaughan@jacksontn.com Joyce Welch, Executive Assistant jwelch@jacksontn.com Mandy White, Vice President, Research & Economic Development mwhite@jacksontn.com
facebook.com/jacksontn chamber twitter.com/jaxtnchamber linkedin.com/company/jacksonarea-chamber-of-commerce flickr.com/photos/jacksontnchamber/sets youtube.com/user/jacksontnchamber
Attend. Network. Learn. UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS JANUARY 18
Chamber Quarterly Membership Breakfast 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
Doubletree Hotel, 1850 Highway 45 Bypass
Cost: $10 per person for Chamber members Event Details: Chamber members enjoy
breakfast with peers and an opportunity to network with other businesses and com-
munity leaders at this quarterly breakfast. Program content covers topics of interest
to the business community and helps keep members up to date on what’s happening
with The Chamber and our local community.
RSVP is required. To register, e-mail Brandy Stutsman or call at 423-2200.
FEBRUARY 10
FEBRUARY 15
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Coyote Blues, 541 Wiley Parker Rd. Cost: $15 per person for Chamber members, $25 per person for non-members Event Details: U40 is a group of professionals 40 years old and younger. Meeting every month, U40 is compromised of lunch, networking and valuable insight from seasoned business leaders in and around the Jackson community. Sharon Younger, President of Younger Associates, will be the featured speaker. RSVP is required. To register, e-mail Brandy Stutsman or call at 423-2200.
2:00 p.m. - 3:15 p.m. The Chamber, 197 Auditorium St. Event Details: Orientation is not only for new members, but for members who want to make the most of their membership as well. Find out about the many programs the Chamber offers and how you can be involved. Light refreshments will be served. The orientation is free, but advanced registration is required. To register, e-mail Lisa Cothran or call at 423-2200.
U40 Young Professionals Luncheon
Chamber Member Orientation
Visit our Calendar of Events at www.jacksontn.com for more information.
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PROMOTIONS, ACCOMPLISHMENTS & SPECIAL RECOGNITITONS “Business Professionals Honored at Leadership Jackson Graduation” cover story continued... to each session eager to engage and learn where they could make a true positive difference in the community and many have already found that area of service. Not only are the class members personally engaging, but many have also gotten their company employees involved in making our community a better place for everyone, and that’s what Leadership Jackson is all about…leading the way, setting the example and serving Jackson-Madison County as a community trustee.” A donation of $460 was presented by the class to Donna Agnew, director of the Hands Up program, for at-risk and under privileged pre-school children to help them and their families be better prepared to start school. Class members also gave presentations on group community projects they participated in, such as The Dream Center, the Hands Up Program and the First Tee program. The LJ Class of 2011 graduates are: Karley Bond, Regions Bank; Alison Bradford, First South Bank; Scott Brown, Madison County Commissioner; Angela Calhoun, Bodine Aluminum, Inc.; Kelly Carson, TVA; Scott Conger, City Councilman; Barry Cooper, JACOA; Amy Dove, WorkCare Resources; Danny Hall, Jackson Energy Authority; Stephenie Hinson, Delta Faucet Company; Ryan Holmes, TLM Associates, Inc.; Beth James, Jackson Center for Independent Living; Kristina Johnson-Anderson, Charter Business; Carrol Kessens, Alexander Thompson Arnold, PLLC; Kim Laughlin, The Bank of Jackson; Brandon Lindsey, Madison South Liquor & Wine, Inc.; Ben Lovell, Gerdau; Sandy Maxwell, Steele Martin Jones & Company, PLLC; Tammy Mays, Aspell Recovery Center; Monique Merriweather, City of Jackson; Sonya Miller; Lisa Piercey, MD, West Tennessee Healthcare; Shaun Powers, Regional Inter-Faith Assocation (RIFA); Landon Preston, Union University; Steven Puffer, Mighty Product Center; Stephanie Riley, Raines Design; Karen Via, Leaders Credit Union; Lisa Silver, Jackson Oaks Senior Living; Jason Wells, Pinnacle Foods; Amy West, Jackson State Community College.
Snagmob Launches New Philanthropic Program
Snagmob.com, the premier Jackson-based website offering local customers ways to save up to 90 percent off local businesses, is announcing a new philanthropic program to benefit local nonprofits and schools. On Wednesday, November 30, SnagMob began donating a percentage of daily sales to local nonprofits, community programs and area schools. The announcement marked a renewed commitment to benefit both West Tennessee area merchants and community-based programs. “In this uncertain economic environment, families are forced to watch their money closely, creating challenges for both the small business owner and for exceptional organizations trying to raise money for good causes,” said Drew Ermenc, SnagMob Owner. “SnagMob is uniquely positioned to help local consumers, business owners and nonprofits by giving back a portion of our proceeds every single day.” With this renewed community focus, SnagMob will donate 10 percent of daily revenues to a designated charitable organization. Nine local nonprofits have already signed on to participate, including the Regional Inter-Faith Association (R.I.F.A), Area Relief Ministries, STAR Center and Boys & Girls Club.
Leslie Keathley joins Thompson and Smith Insurance to lead FARM organization Thompson and Smith Insurance welcomes Leslie Keathley to the organization to assist Jim Thompson in introducing their new FARM alliance program. Keathley brings a strong background in agricultural and related insurance products to the group and will be leading the initial development of the FARM alliance. The alliance will be an educational and networking group for farmers that will provide members with access to key industry speakers, industry tools such as the Kiplinger Agriculture report, and networking opportunities at lunch and dinner events. Keathley is a native of Brownsville, Tennessee. She pursued her degree in Finance and Economics from Union University and spent nine years working in the banking and finance industry. In 2008, she became a fully licensed insurance agent and is well-known for her dedication and experience in Farm and Crop Insurance.
Jackson business professionals honored at West Tennessee Healthcare Gala
The six winners of the prestigious Jackson Awards were announced recently by the West Tennessee Healthcare Foundation. The annual award categories included: The Arts, Community Service, Education, Health Care, Leadership and Volunteer Service. The 2011 winners were honored at the Foundation’s Charity Gala Saturday, November 12th at the Carl Perkins Civic Center. They were: The Arts, Lendon Noe; Community Service, Roy Heatherly; Education, Rayna Bomar; Health Care, Sammie Arnold; Leadership, Clark Shaw; and Volunteer Service, Polly Carter. The Jackson Awards were established by the West Tennessee Healthcare Foundation in 2006 as a means to honor those in the community who exemplify the truest qualities of a leader. The awards are named for President Andrew Jackson, the City’s namesake. “I am deeply honored and profoundly grateful to the West Tennessee Healthcare Foundation to have been chosen for the Jackson Award for Leadership,” said Clark Shaw, Leadership Award Winner. “When I consider how blessed Jackson is with outstanding leaders throughout the community this is a humbling experience. God has richly blessed me with a wonderful family and business which, in turn, has offered many opportunities to both serve and give back to this wonderful place we call home.”
Dement Tree Service Employee Earns Certified Treecare Safety Professional Status
Sam Spence, a Dement Tree Service employee and ISA Certified Arborist, recently completed the Certified Treecare Safety Professional (CTSP) program offered by the Tree Care Industry Association. The CTSP program allows one or more key employees at a given company to become certified tree care safety experts, thereby empowering and encouraging a culture of safety within that organization. Sam is the only Certified Treecare Safety Professional in West Tennessee. 3
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PROMOTIONS, ACCOMPLISHMENTS & SPECIAL RECOGNITITONS
VOLUNTEER GOOD NEWS JACKSON Spotlight Judy Leforgee Administrative Assistant to the Dean, McAfee School of Business Administration, Union University
The Chamber is proud to announce Judy Leforgee, Union University, as the Volunteer of the Month for December 2011. Leforgee serves as an Vice Chairman of the Ambassadors and on the Women in Business Committee. “I enjoy working with people in the community and The Chamber,” said Leforgee. “I believe in making Jackson a better, stronger and growing community. I believe it is a responsibility of each member of our community.” Along with volunteering her time for The Chamber, Leforgee has also volunteered for United Way, RIFA, Fox Ridge Neighborhood Association and West Jackson Baptist Church. “Judy is always willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done,” said Shirley Jones, Vice President, Public Affairs for The Chamber. “She will step in and help, even at the last minute. She is the kind of volunteer that everyone admires and wants to emulate.”
CBS announced in November that it has signed an affiliation agreement with Bahakel Communications, Ltd.’s station, WBBJ, in Jackson, Tennessee. The affiliation will be effective Sunday, January 1, 2012. WBBJ/CBS will be transmitting on a digital sub-channel of WBBJ-TV, the ABC affiliate, and will be viewed over-the-air, on cable and satellite television. “We’re delighted and proud to establish a CBS home base in Jackson, associating the quality and popularity of our network’s schedule with the dominant station in the market,” said Diana Wilkin, President, CBS Affiliate Relations. “WBBJ signed on in 1955 as a CBS affiliate, so this new agreement is both a ‘return engagement’ and a welcome opportunity to expand our partnership with the seasoned broadcast executives at Bahakel Communications.” Beverly Bahakel Poston, President, Bahakel Communications, Ltd., said: “WBBJ has a long tradition of serving the people of West Tennessee. We look forward to enhancing that service to our audiences and advertisers with the addition of CBS’s outstanding entertainment, news and sports programming. Complementing the lineup of America’s Most-Watched Network will be the news, weather, sports and information provided by 7 Eyewitness News, West Tennessee’s News Channel.”
HAPPY HOLIDAYS From The Chamber
DID YOU KNOW?...
97 percent of your Chamber dues are tax deductible as an ordinary and necessary business expense. 4
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PROMOTIONS, ACCOMPLISHMENTS & SPECIAL RECOGNITITONS
TOP AMBASSADORS
Congratulations to the Ambassadors with perfect attendance: Heath Williams, George A. Smith & Sons Janie Steinbach, Sumner Bank and Trust Jackson-Madison County Tourism Continues to Thrive Jackson-Madison County ranks No. 1 in the Northwest and Southwest regions of Tennessee once again, according to the 2010 Economic Impact of Tourism study released by the U.S. Travel Association for the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. Madison County generated a total of $158.98 million in tourism related expenditures ranking Madison County 12th out of 95 counties in the state. Madison County also had the highest payroll expenditures in the Northwest and Southwest Regions, with $31.17 million. State Tax Receipts ($9.33 million) and Local Tax Receipts ($3.48 million) contributed to the economies of Madison County and the State of Tennessee. In 2010, Madison County employed over 1,600 residents in tourism. The study provides preliminary 2010 estimates of domestic and international traveler expenditures in Tennessee, as well as the employment, payroll income and tax revenue directly generated by this spending. The five counties with the biggest impact on tourism in order are Davidson, Shelby, Sevier, Knox and Hamilton. Northwest Tennessee includes Benton, Carroll, Crockett, Dyer, Gibson, Henry, Lake, Obion, and Weakley counties. Southwest Tennessee includes Chester, Decatur, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Henderson, McNairy and Madison counties. In other regions, Madison County had expenditure percentages similar to Montgomery County ($178.30 million). The Jackson County Convention & Visitors Bureau is the official destination marketing organization for the City of Jackson and Madison County and operates on a portion of the lodging taxes collected by city and county hotels. The bureau is charged with growing travel-related spending in the county by re-investing those visitor-paid taxes to develop and promote the county’s tourism assets to potential leisure travelers, group tours, meetings and conferences.
MobileNation Brings Five New Stores, 25 Jobs To West Tennessee MobileNation, the first wireless phone company to bring wholesale savings club pricing to wireless phone service, has opened five new stores in Dyersburg, Jackson, Humboldt and Milan, adding 25 new jobs. The company chose Central and West Tennessee to be the first market in the nation to receive its innovative wholesale approach to wireless services Like a direct-to-consumer wholesale club, MobileNation focuses on keeping prices low for its members. When compared to similar offerings with national brands, MobileNation can save members up to 40 percent. MobileNation also offers cost-saving benefits like being able to carryover unused minutes and data, family plans that share all features including data, messaging and unlimited calling to any mobile phone. “We spent many resources surveying what the people of Tennessee liked and disliked about their wireless phone service,” said Matt Owens, Vice President of marketing. “From this, we uniquely structured our services to meet their needs. And, unlike most wholesale price clubs, our members pay only a one-time membership fee and we do not have activation fees – like other national wireless carriers.” “MobileNation focuses on delivering the most popular wireless features and will not scrimp on service,” Owens said. “Our 25 new store employees spent hundreds of hours preparing for their openings. They are local people and they will emphasize local, personal service.”
USEFUL TIPS FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS/MANAGERS
By Ron Acree & Joel Newman, TSBDC A recent report by Biz2Credit Small Business Lending Index states that “Big banks continue their reluctance to lend money” and the causes of this cautiousness include the continuing global financial crisis as well as U.S. policy uncertainty and the impact of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform Act, which tightened regulations for banking. This report also discovered that 17 percent of small companies reported revenue growth of five percent of more through the first ten months of 2011. This is good news, since it is the highest percentage revenue growth for the year. However, 25 percent of potential small business borrowers said their sales have remained flat. The Index also identified the top three reasons why small business borrowers have not received funding: 1. More than 68 percent of small businesses reported declining sales in the first nine months of 2011, (fewer and fewer borrowers are reporting declines in revenue, which is a good sign for the economy). 2. Profitability has declined at more than 80 percent of small businesses over the past two years. 3. Bank underwriting criteria is stricter now than in 2010 when stimulus money was flowing. 4. Uncertainty among big banks is leading to increased dissatisfaction among small business owners. 5. Avoidance: Small business owners believe that they are unlikely to obtain loans and that the process takes too long. “The economy is getting better and we can see some green shoots of recovery finally which should be encouraging for small business owners”, states the Index. “Combined with job losses at big companies, the role of small business in job creation has become more critical.” Biz2Credit’s analysis also found that loan request amounts ranged from $25,000 to $3 million, that the average credit score was above 680 and that average-time-in-business was slightly more than two years. This report further stated that unlike other surveys, the results are based on primary data submitted by more than 1,000 small business owners who applied for funding on Biz2Credit’s online lending platform.
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JACKSON INDUSTRIAL NEWS Governor, Commissioner Announce Jackson Die Casting Expansion Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and ECD Commissioner Bill Hagerty along with local officials and Jackson Die Casting, LLC representatives announced today the company’s decision to expand its Jackson manufacturing facility. The expansion of the high- pressure aluminum die casting company represents an investment of almost $4.5 million and will create 58 new jobs in the area over the next three years. “I am encouraged to see Tennessee businesses and Jackson Die Casting continue to grow in spite of a difficult economy,” Haslam said. “I believe our economic development efforts are focused on the right targets, and this expansion by Jackson Die Casting is progress towards our goal of becoming the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs.” “This announcement underscores the fact that our strategy to help Tennessee businesses expand, as laid out in Gov. Haslam’s Jobs4TN plan, is paying off,” Hagerty said. “Our research shows the vast majority of jobs are created by businesses already in the state, and we are encouraged to see the pattern continuing and creating new jobs for Tennesseans. Thank you to Jackson Die Casting for your continued confidence in our state and to our local partners for their work on this project.” ABOVE: Jimmy Tapp, Vice President and GenJackson Die Casting is owned by Dallas-based Key 3 Casting, LLC, which was formed in 2009 and also has eral Manager, Jackson Die Casting, spoke about operations in Minneapolis and Hibbing, Minn. The company produces metal castings for industrial, aerospace, the company’s expansion at the industrial announcement on Wednesday, December 14 at public infrastructure and automotive applications at its location in the Madison West Industrial Park. the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce. Bob Tamburrino, President of Key 3 Casting commented, “We’re fortunate to have booked significant new business from current and new customers, requiring us to invest significantly in equipment capacity and increase our employment. We have a strong and dedicated employee team in Jackson. The Jackson team immediately began to work with Mayor Gist and Mayor Harris and representatives from the Jackson Chamber of Commerce, Jackson Energy Authority, the Tennessee Valley Authority and the economic development leaders from the State of Tennessee to make our Jackson, Tenn. plant the best choice for our new investments and business expansion. We’re very appreciative of the investment incentives, employee training assistance, and utility rates provided by the economic development group which enable us to meet the competitive requirements of our customers.” ECD’s Assistant Commissioner of Business Development Kingsley Brock joined company representatives, Jackson Mayor Jerry Gist, Madison County Mayor Jimmy Harris and other Team Madison County officials in making the announcement today at the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce. “This is an extremely exciting time for the Jackson Die Casting plant and for the employees here,” Jimmy Tapp, Vice President and General Manager, Jackson Die Casting, said. “It reinforces to everyone our future and confirms the hard work and dedication of our team of employees. Because of their efforts, we have this growth opportunity.” “We aggressively competed for this project,” Gist said. “Jackson Die Casting, LLC is a strong company, and we have developed a positive relationship with its corporate representatives.” “The expansion of Jackson Die Casting, LLC is welcoming news,” Harris said. “The company is a natural fit to Jackson and thriving businesses like Jackson Die Casting, LLC are the driving force for the growth of our community.” Hiring for the new positions will begin after the first of the year.
TVA Provides Service Recipient Birthday Celebrations
Kelly Carson, TVA Field Accountant, presented a check to William Carroll and Yvonne Hardin, who are service recipients at Madison Haywood Developmental Services (MHDS). The funds will provide birthday celebrations at intervals throughout the year for over 240 intellectually disabled adults ages 22-74 in Madison, Haywood and Hardeman counties. When Carson toured the workshop at MHDS as part of her participation in Leadership Jackson, she was immediately drawn to the service recipients. She went back to her office and told her fellow TVA staffers about the organization which provides jobs and skills training as well as residential services to those they serve. The local TVA office began to form a plan to do something extra to celebrate their lives. MHDS had acknowledged that many clients no longer had family to celebrate with and funding was limited for such activities. TVA proposed underwriting the cost and bringing staff to help host quarterly birthday parties. The first birthday celebration will be held on Friday, January 6, 2012. “TVA is thrilled to be able to open our hearts to this special group of adults and help them celebrate their birthday,” said Carson. “We hope to create awareness and additional support which would allow for more frequent celebrations at the workshops located in Jackson, Brownsville and Bolivar.” Bill Brewer, Executive Director of MHDS, said, “We are so grateful to have TVA and its affiliates reach out to our service recipients. Being able to give them an occasion to look forward to is compatible with our mission to advance the quality of life.”
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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
The Jackson Symphony Company name: The Jackson Symphony Address: 207 East Lafayette St. Established when: 1961 Amount of Employees: We have nine full and part-time staff and 60-70 musicians for a performance. On the Web: www.thejacksonsymphony.org Phone Number: (731) 427-6440 Chamber Member Since: 1988 About Your Company: Essentially, we create orchestral experiences for our community through a wide range of musical styles for music lovers of all ages.
Executive Director, Lee Warren
Chamber Connection: What’s new with your organization? The Jackson Symphony: We are very excited to be planning a tribute year for our Music Director, Dr. Jordan Tang. This will be his 27th year with us. He has taken our orchestra from a group of community musicians to a full-fledged professional orchestra. We hope that the 2012-13 season will show the community his influence and artistic style. We are also beginning the search process for the new music director. This will be an exciting time for the community. Chamber Connection: What’s the biggest community project you’re working on right now? The Jackson Symphony: Right now, we are in the middle of our “Color of Music” Program that incorporates our Discovery Concerts. These projects engage over 10,000 West Tennessee school children by having them artistically interpret classical works and then providing them with opportunities to hear a live orchestral performance. This is a very popular program with the students, music and art teachers in West Tennessee. Children have shown great creativity with their drawings and paintings. Chamber Connection: What’s helped your organization become successful in our community? The Jackson Symphony: The first thing that comes to mind is the tremendous volunteers and overall community support. Most importantly, our Jackson Symphony League has been coordinating fund raising and volunteers for 50 years this year. The has been an integral part of our growth in the community. Chamber Connection: What does your organization do that most people don’t know about? The Jackson Symphony: What most people do not realize is how far in advance we have to plan the upcoming seasons. We are usually planning the next season before the current one gets underway. Optimally, we would plan a season two years in advance. Concert production has many variables and working parts. Many, many people are involved in the process. Chamber Connection: What are some recent successes your organization has experienced? The Jackson Symphony: Our Starlight Symphony brings close to 6,000 people annually to the First Presbyterian Church grounds thanks in large part to the Bank of Jackson and HORNE LLP, CPA’s. Families, friends and groups of every age and cultural background come to this wonderful event. This event embodies our mission which is to share and promote symphonic music to as many people as possible in our community. We are also proud that 50+ organizations and business support the symphony in some way. We have a wonderful partnership with Toyota Bodine Aluminum as our Masterworks series sponsor. We are also proud of the relationships we have with Union University, Freed-Hardeman University and the University of Memphis at Lambuth. We are excited about enriching these relationships with the educational institutions here. Chamber Connection: What challenges does your organization face? The Jackson Symphony: As with any non-profit organization, we are challenged with finding financial support. Costs always increase and we want to stay financially ready to implement new projects. We hope to create a larger endowment fund and planned giving program in order to maintain sustainability. We have been very lucky to have wonderfully loyal patrons, corporate supporters and volunteers. We are optimistic about our future. Chamber Connection: What are some of the future goals of your organization? The Jackson Symphony: Finding a new music director to bring a fresh artistic vision is an immediate goal. We are also refining our long-term strategic plan that will focus on our musicians, recruiting top talent and making our overall operations more efficient. Chamber Connection: Are there any things we didn’t ask that you would like to share? The Jackson Symphony: The board of directors and staff are extremely grateful for all the community support we have enjoyed for 51 years. We are all working diligently to bring West Tennessee a symphony of excellence. 7
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WELCOME NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS
November New Members B & B International, LLC Dean Smith 151 Browns Church Rd. Jackson, TN 38305 (866) 699-9661 Category: Export/Sales Cancer Research Institute of West Tennessee Dr. Jerry Thornthwaite 114 E. Main St. Henderson, TN 38340 (731) 989-9411 www.cancerfoundation.com Category: Laboratories - Testing Charlie Bulldog’s, LLC Tammy Hardee 216 N. Shannon St. Jackson, TN 38301 (731) 217-7125 www.charliebulldogs.com Category: Restaurants C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. Brad Franks 1009 Greystone Sq. Jackson, TN 38305 (731) 512-0629 www.chrobinson.com Category: Transportation Healing Hearts by Design Debbie Foster 915 Williamsburg Village Dr. Jackson, TN 38305 (731) 326-9763 www.healingheartsbydesign.com Category: Health & Wellness
Human Technology, Inc. Frank Caruso 2813 N. Highland Ave. Jackson, TN 38305 (731) 660-3340 www.hi-techpando.com Category: Prosthetics and/or Orthotics MobileNation Brandon Trotter 1923 Emporium Dr., Ste. E Jackson, TN 38305 (731) 256-7082 www.mymobilenation.com Category: Cellular Telephone Service MobileNation Brandon Trotter 2162 S. Highland Ave. Jackson, TN 38301 (731) 256-7084 www.mymobilenation.com Category: Cellular Telephone Service Propane Resources Transportation Mark Bailey PO Box 2308 Mission, KS 66201-2308 (913) 262-8531 www.propaneresources.com Category: Consulting Services Shaw’s Broadcasting Co., LLC Johnny W. Shaw 123 W. Market St. Bolivar, TN 38008 (731) 658-3690 www.wojg.com Category: Radio Stations
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NOVEMBER RENEWING MEMBERS Abbay’s ActionCOACH Alexander, Thompson, Arnold, P.L.L.C. Apex Building Company, LLC Apex Cardiology P.C. Audette’s Academy for Early Learning B & E Electronics, Inc. BancorpSouth Behavioral Outreach Services, LLC Benefits First Bluff City Electronics Clayton Bank & Trust Collision Specialists, Inc. Comfort Keepers Cornerstone Health Services Group, Inc. Days Inn Deaton’s Carpet One Inc. Design Irrigation Systems Dumplin’s of Jackson Duro Bag Dutch Garden Center Edward Jones Investments Edward Jones Investments-Greg Griffin Farm Bureau Forever Communications-WOGY, WYNU, TJ Network GEN PAC Gold’s Gym Haynes Barker Investment Management, LLC Intrepid USA Island Tan & Swimwear Jackson Center For Independent Living Jackson Christian School Jackson-Madison County Humane Society King Tire Company Longhorn Steakhouse Mack Pest Control Inc. McCoy’s Heating & Air Meineke Car Care Center Merry Maids of Greater Jackson Montessori Center of Jackson Morris Nursery & Landscapes, Inc. Moss, Benton & Wallis, PLLC MSB Construction LLC Nell Huntspon Flower Box Panera Bread Parker’s Flooring Parkway Village Mobile Home & RV Community
Patriot Equity Credit Union Portfolio Recovery Associates Post House Jackson Rent One Sam’s Club (Division of Walmart, Inc.) Smallwood’s Camper & Trailer Sales Sowell’s Diesel Repair Sports Plus Rehab Centers State Farm Insurance-Greg Milam State Farm Insurance-Wes Harris Teague Transports Tennessee State Veterans’ Home Toyota Bodine Aluminum Trinity Christian Academy Trussmark, Inc. Vulcan Materials Co. Wade Electric Co., Inc. West Tennessee Hearing & Speech Center WNWS Radio (101.5 FM)
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RIBBON CUTTINGS & OPENINGS UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTINGS: • Monday, January 9, 2 p.m. Kelly & Company House Dressing, 2248 N. Highland Avenue. Contact Nancy Eubanks, (731) 868-1825 • Wednesday, January 25, 1 p.m. DaVita Dialysis South, 46 Harts Bridge Rd. Contact Seneca Suggs, (731) 422-9568
Get Well Family Clinic 375A Vann Dr. www.getwellfamilyclinic.com Category: Clinics & Medical Groups
The Dream Center of Jackson Playground 49 Old Hickory Blvd. www.dreamcenterjackson.com Category: Nonprofit Organization
Allergy & Asthma Care 464 N. Parkway, Ste. D www.allergymemphis.com Category: Physicians &/or Surgeons
Exchange Club / Carl Perkins Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse - “100 Cars for Good” Toyota Contest Car Presentation Robinson Toyota - Scion 1377 Hwy. 45 Bypass www.robinsontoyota.com Category: Automobile Dealers
Fox Collection Center 64 Lynoak Cv. www.foxcollection.com Category: Collection Agencies
Hydro Rejuvenation Medispa 164-A University Pkwy. www.hydrorejuvenationmedispa.com Category: Health & Wellness
Maxim Health Care Services 3019 Greystone Sq. www.maxhealth.com Category: Home Health Care
MobileNation 2162 S. Highland &192 Emporium Dr. www.mymobilenation.com Category: Cellular Telephone Service
The Dream Center of Jackson Kitchen 49 Old Hickory Blvd. www.dreamcenterjackson.com Category: Nonprofit Organization
Trends Salon & Spa 365 N. Pkwy., Suite 100 Category: Beauty Salon
West TN School for the Deaf Playground 100 Berryhill Dr. www.wtsd.tn.org Category: Education Schools & Colleges
GET INVOLVED! The Ambassadors (Red Coats) are accepting applications now for additional volunteers for
the 2012 year. The Ambassadors serve as the goodwill arm of The Chamber. They attend ribbon cuttings, grand openings, ground breakings and volunteer at Chamber functions. They are an elite group of volunteers who support Chamber member businesses in all kinds of ways. They are on the front line of all the new and exciting things happening in Jackson. If you are interested in becoming an Ambassador, contact Shirley Jones at sajones@jacksontn.com or call The Chamber at 423-2200. 10
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MONTHLY ECONOMIC INDICATORS (NOVEMBER 2011)
Total Labor Force
Oct. ’11
Oct. ‘10
Madison County
48,900
48,580
0.7%
48,780
48,710
0.1%
Jackson MSA (Madison & Chester Counties)
56,750
56,590
0.3%
56,640
56,630
0.0%
3,125,600
3,077,400
1.6%
3,130,000
3,066,600
2.1%
0.3%
154,022,000
153,854,000
0.1%
Sept. ‘11
Sept. ‘10
Rate Change
Tennessee
United States 154,088,000 153,652,000 Unemployment
Oct. '11
Madison County 9.3% Jackson MSA 9.3% (Madison & Chester Counties) Tennessee 8.9% United States
Sales Tax Collected City of Jackson
8.5%
Nov. '11
Rate Change
Oct. '10 Rate Change
Sept. ’11
Sept. ’10
Rate Change
9.2%
0.1%
10.2%
9.4%
0.8%
9.4%
-0.1%
10.2%
9.4%
0.8%
9.1%
-0.2%
9.7%
9.2%
0.5%
9.0%
-0.5%
8.8%
9.2%
-0.4%
Nov. ‘11 Rate Change
Oct. '11
Oct. '10
Rate Change
$3,556,129
$3,592,962
-1.0%
$3,575,625
$3,434,458
4.1%
Madison County $3,870,410 Building Permits Nov. ‘11 Residential 7 Number Issued Permit Value $795,000 Commercial 12 Number Issued $11,217,248 Permit Value
$3,935,268
-1.6%
$3,878,984
$3,698,070
4.9%
Nov. '10
Oct. '11
Oct. '10
14 2,515,000
16 $3,279,210
5 $526,000
18 7,977,673
15 $2,793,900
17 $1,833,830
11
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