Montgomery Business Journal - March 2021 by Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce

MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL MARCH/APRIL 2021

MBJ

MAKING IT IN MGM MANUFACTURING DRIVES THE CAPITAL CITY ECONOMY

A LOOK AT THE LOCAL LEGAL INDUSTRY HOW TO CREATE A WINNING COMPANY CULTURE

CONTENTS MAR/APR 2021

THIS ISSUE: 10 Making it in MGM: Manufacturing Industry 32 Making the Case: Legal Industry Overview

44 Freelance Facts 16 Investor Profile: Arthur DuCote 20 Member Profiles: Tonya Scott-Williams and Keri Watts 24 Military Profile: Lt. Col. Brian Kirchner 26 Giveback: Personalized Philanthropy 28 #myMGM: Spotlight MGM 54 Small Business Briefcase: “Best Place to Work” Award: Do You Have What It Takes?

CHAMBER NEWS:

58 Connect: FAQ 60 Connect: Chamber News 62 Members on the Move 64 Members in the News 66 Business Buzz 70 Ribbon Cuttings 73 New Members 74 Intel

MBJ

THE NUMBER ONE BUSINESS SOURCE FOR MONTGOMERY AND THE RIVER REGION

MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESIDENT Anna B. Buckalew CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER Meg Lewis

exploreMedia PUBLISHER Pam Mashburn

MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Stewart Kornegay

ART DIRECTOR Erika Rowe Tracy

DESIGN Heather Cooper, Shelby Berry Shubird

CONTRIBUTORS EDITORIAL Jennifer Stewart Kornegay, Minnie Lamberth, Brian Blanks, Brenda Hellums, Henry Moore and Sharleen Smith PHOTOGRAPHERS Bryan Carter, Robert Fouts, Aubrie Moates, David Robertson Jr., Grace O’Connor, Eric Salas ON THE COVER Manufacturing is big business in Montgomery. ADVERTISING Christina Bennett and Angie Jordin, exploreMedia / 334-578-7810 COMMUNICATIONS Kinsey de Torres MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL c/o Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Post Office Box 79, Montgomery, Alabama 36101 Telephone: 334-834-5200 • mbj@montgomerychamber.com © Copyright 2021 exploreMedia and the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MISSION STATEMENT

The Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce catalyzes business and community leadership to improve the economic prosperity and quality of place of Montgomery and the River Region. The Montgomery Business Journal (USPS NO. 025553) is published bi-monthly by exploreMedia for the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, 41 Commerce Street, Montgomery AL 36104, (334) 834-5200, www.montgomerychamber.com. Periodicals Postage Paid at Montgomery, Alabama, 36119+9998, USPS NO. 025553. Volume 13, Issue 2. POSTMASTER send address changes to Montgomery Business Journal, c/o Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 79, 41 Commerce Street, Montgomery, AL 36101, or email mbj@montgomerychamber.com. The Montgomery Business Journal welcomes story ideas from its readers. Email to: editor@montgomerychamber.com. Subscriptions are a part of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce dues structure. Subscriptions and bulk subscriptions can also be purchased per year at www.montgomerychamber.com/mbjsub.

CHAMBER NEWS

Events +

MA RK YO UR CALENDAR S FOR THE SE UP COMING C HAMB E R E V E NTS

8 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Montgomery’s manufacturing industry is producing more than a diverse array of goods; it’s providing area residents a broad base of options for rewarding and lucrative employment.

MAKING IT IN MGM

By Jennifer S. Kornegay

10 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

As the state capital — packed with

government buildings filled with state workers — and the home of a major military base, Montgomery may not spring to mind when you think about manufacturing. But maybe it should. The Montgomery metro area is home to 325 manufacturing companies, which together employ more than 17,400 people who produce a wide range of products, everything from cars and aircraft parts to water heaters, surgical equipment and sports drinks. All combined, the area’s manufacturing sector has an almost $5 billion overall economic impact on Montgomery County, and in direct impact, represents $1.5 billion of the county’s $12.6 billion economy. The thousands of manufacturing jobs add up to $1 billion in annual earnings, which represents 9.6 percent of the county’s total earnings. And they’re good jobs too: The average annual salary at Montgomery manufacturing companies is more than $58,500 per year, 29 percent higher than the local average wage. Joe Friday, President and CEO of Whitfield Foods, Inc., pointed to the industry’s obvious benefits for the area, focusing on providing not just thousands of jobs (120 of which are at Whitfield), but a diverse array of jobs, from “blue collar” to managerial positions. “Alabama and our region have a strong agricultural background, and we have so many government jobs and jobs related to the base, but I’d say manufacturing is the real backbone here, and it’s really varied in its employment offerings,” he said. “Plus, we continue to draw new companies here, and so much else feeds off that.” Gindi Prutzman, Executive Director of Central AlabamaWorks, shared similar thoughts on the sector’s job creation credentials. “From entry-level employees to certified apprenticeships, manufacturing offers a large range of opportunity for meaningful work,” she said.

The Montgomery metro area is home to 325 manufacturing companies, which together employ more than 17,400 people.

Friday called the manufacturing sector’s role in the local economy “key,” but he admitted a little personal bias. “When you think about the companies, about who it is really building something, it’s our manufacturing companies and, truly, their workers,” he said. “I come from a manufacturing family. My dad worked at a paper mill for 40-plus years, and if not for that mill, where I grew up wouldn’t have even existed.”

11 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Workforce Solutions As Friday noted, it’s not companies that dream up, design, produce and distribute all of these things: it’s people. And yet, despite the opportunities and the high wages available, people are the resource most precious in our manufacturing sector. According to multiple sources, there’s a missing link in the workforce pipeline supplying the industry. “While a career in manufacturing may not be for everyone, there is an urgent need to raise the awareness level of the

“Central Alabama is home to robust manufacturing partners that not only produce great products, but also serve as active partners in the community giving both time and resources to area schools and non-profits.” - Gindi Prutzman, Executive Director of Central AlabamaWorks

opportunities that are available now and into the future,” said Robert Burns, Vice President of Administration and HR at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA). “The school systems need to aggressively promote the wide variety of careers that are available in manufacturing. Students’ attitudes and perceptions of working in a manufacturing environment must be changed from solely working on an assembly line to seeing themselves programming robots, designing efficient workspaces or maintaining the latest

on curriculum that can better prepare students for manufacturing careers. In addition to the industry’s efforts, groups like Central AlabamaWorks are pitching in too. The nonprofit organization’s mission is to “facilitate a system that provides business and industry with job seekers and students who have received the education and training that aligns with their needs throughout the region.” To accomplish this, the Council (composed of 26 voting members, leaders in education, chambers of commerce and other economic development organizations, nonprofits, plus state and local government agencies) focuses on schools, promoting the multiple positives awaiting students in manufacturing through its Educator Workforce Academy. “It is impossible for educators to tell students what careers are available if they don’t know, so we make it our goal to educate our educators on the world of possibilities,” Prutzman said. “We believe ‘You cannot be what you cannot see.’”

equipment driven by artificial intelligence.”

Another complementary program is the

For one thing, nationwide, we simply

person event that gives students hands-

don’t have enough people entering the workforce to replace retiring baby boomers. And it’s not just about warm bodies. Friday highlighted the skills gap that’s hindering the industry, calling it the sector’s “biggest challenge.” “Developing the workers we need is a problem, but it’s not a local problem only; it’s nationwide,” he said. He explained its roots. “As a country, we didn’t focus on skilled trades for years; we didn’t put high school students on that path, and now we have a lack of people with the right skills and aptitudes to meet our industry’s demands,”

organization’s Career Discovery, an inon experience with businesses. (COVID restrictions meant 2020’s events were held virtually, but the hope is to return to Trenholm State Community College, the event’s host in past years, when it’s safe to do so.) Anita Archie, Interim President at Trenholm State Community College stressed that a unified vision and collaboration between multiple parties, including education and industry itself, are essential ingredients in any workforce issue solution. “We must have collaborative

he said.

conversations among business and

Along with other River Region

year colleges and four-year universities

manufacturers, Burns says HMMA is ready to assist by providing guidance

12 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

industry, elected leadership, K-12, twoassessing workforce needs for our region. This includes examining workforce

MGM MANUFACTURING: AUTO INDUSTRY OUTLOOK: By the Numbers

325 “Alabama and our region have a strong agricultural background, and we have so many government jobs and jobs related to the base, but I’d say manufacturing is the real backbone here, and it’s really varied in its employment offerings. Plus, we continue to draw new companies here, and so much else feeds off that.” - Joe Friday, President and CEO of Whitfield Foods, Inc.

availability, talent development, barriers to

JOBS:

NUMBER OF COMPANIES

17,400

(in Montgomery metro)

REPRESENTS

$1.5 BILLION

OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY’S

$12.6 BILLION

ECONOMY (2018-2019)

$1 BILLION ANNUAL EARNINGS

developing that talent and in turn, working holistically together to address these issues,” she said. Trenholm State is doing its part by continually evaluating its offerings to make certain they remain in-line with

$1 BILLION

ALMOST IN DURABLE MANUFACTURING ACTIVITIES

industry demands. “Advisory committees for our programs are serving as an asset to stay abreast of workforce needs,” Archie said. “Workforce staff frequently attend advisory committee meetings to ensure they are knowledgeable of the needs of local business and industry. All employees are also involved in community activities such as civic organizations, workforce development entities, chamber of commerce events, as well as many others where they network with leaders of local business and industry to discuss their

OVERALL ECONOMIC IMPACT: OVERALL ECONOMIC IMPACT: S ALMOST

$5 BILLION IN REAL GDP

needs and determine if Trenholm is meeting those needs.” Source: Dr. Keivan Deravi, President of Economic Research Services, Inc., a Montgomery-based economic consulting group

13 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Friday applauded such work, claiming it’s a critical piece of the puzzle. “Alabama graduates 50,000 students from high school each year and 30,000 go to college, but what about the other 20,000? They need to have their aptitudes identified; they need to see career paths, and they need to PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOKE GLASSFORD.

see the training to that path,” he said. “As a region, if we can improve linking

“We must have collaborative conversations among business and industry, elected leadership, K-12, two-year colleges and four-year universities assessing workforce needs for our region. This includes examining workforce availability, talent development, barriers to developing that talent and in turn, working holistically together to address these issues.” - Anita Archie, Interim President at Trenholm State Community College

our education to the demands of our industry, that helps us all, the employer and potential employees.”

Back to the Future While some Montgomery manufacturing companies have been here for decades

Burns outlined the next-gen tech used at

– Whitfield Foods has been making

HMMA. “We are at the beginning stages

its sweet Alaga syrup here for more

of using big data and artificial intelligence

than a century – others are newer

to enhance our manufacturing

arrivals, and all of them are using the

capabilities. We are evaluating advanced

latest and greatest technology to

information technology programs to

produce their products. The culture

effectively manage the logistics and parts

of innovation this fosters is a valuable

flow to successfully build five different

contribution to the community too.

vehicles on the same assembly line,” he

“Advanced manufacturing uses cutting-

said. With the company producing more

edge technology, and these highly

than 1,500 vehicles every day, these

skilled employees serve to advance the

technologies are crucial to identify and

technology capital of the River Region,”

prevent potential road bumps that could

said Prutzman.

slow production.

GETTING GREENER

Like many businesses around the country, Montgomery’s manufacturing industry has made sustainability a priority, according to Joe Friday, President and CEO of Whitfield Foods, Inc. “We have a constant concern about environmental impact and are examining how we can be more efficient and reduce the impacts and costs of waste,” he said. “We care a lot about doing our best in these areas.” The automotive industry as a whole is making what Burns deemed a “significant investment” in more eco-friendly transportation, options like autonomous driving capabilities, electric vehicles and other clean mobility alternatives. He claimed the focus on sustainability is imperative to serve today’s consumer. “The question is not if but when the U.S. car buyer will make a significant move toward hybrid or electric vehicles versus internal combustion engines,” he said. “It is a challenge because

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More than Making The innovation and hard work found inside local manufacturing facilities don’t stop at the factory doors. “Both small and large manufacturers in the River Region make an effort to give back to the community in their own way. These corporate social responsibility efforts are often led by their employees with strong support from the business’ leadership team,” Burns said, “HMMA has a long history of working with our team members to identify needs in the community and ultimately providing the time and resources to the nonprofit

AUTO INDUSTRY OUTLOOK: Accelerating

or community outreach organizations that have positive impacts in our community.”

HMMA’s Robert Burns explained the impacts of COVID-19 on the automotive industry and shared thoughts on the road ahead.

Prutzman stressed that area manufacturers and their employees make more than

“The automotive industry has stabilized since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

tangible things; they make a lasting

All automotive manufacturers have adjusted to protect their employees while

impact on the region with their time and

continuing to supply vehicles to consumers. From March until May 2020, the auto

talents. “Central Alabama is home to

industry was essentially shut down, including many dealerships. We had to institute

robust manufacturing partners that not

safety protocols at the plant. The pandemic may or may not cause a long-term

only produce great products, but also

behavioral shift from individuals choosing not to use mass transit to go to and from

serve as active partners in the community,

work. If they choose not to use mass transit, then automotive sales will increase

giving both time and resources to area

short term when workers return to their offices instead working remotely. Only time

schools and non-profits,” she said. “Our

will tell whether or not this is a permanent or temporary trend. The outlook could

manufacturers recognize that a vibrant

be stronger in 2021, depending on the successful rollout of a vaccine.

community is conducive to a vibrant employee base.”

fuel prices remain low, and electric charging times are still too long for most consumers.” Burns also outlined advancements made in other countries and called for the United States to do more. “The Korean, European and Chinese governments have already made significant infrastructure investments to support both electric and fuel cell vehicles,” he said. “The U.S. needs to do the same to help increase the acceptance of clean mobility solutions.”

“The question is not if but when the U.S. car buyer will make a significant move toward hybrid or electric vehicles versus internal combustion engines,” he said. “It is a challenge because fuel prices remain low, and electric charging times are still too long for most consumers.” - Robert Burns, Vice President of Administration and HR at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA)

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VESTOR IN

PO WERHOUSE PR

OFIL

Q&A

ARTHUR DUCOTE Last year was like no other in recent history. A worldwide pandemic that led to major shutdowns of businesses large and small in almost every sector rocked global, national and local economies. In the midst of this environment, the Chamber faced multiple hurdles in fulfilling its mission to serve and support Montgomery’s business community. It overcame them all, raising funds and launching innovative programs to meet local business needs, and its successes were due in no small part to its leadership. The vision, drive and determination that pushed the Chamber forward in 2020 came straight from the top, including past Chamber Chairman Arthur DuCote, former Market Executive at Regions Bank in Montgomery and the River Region. He shared his thoughts on last year. How do you think the Chamber responded to the needs of the business community and its membership during COVID-19? Business

to keep the flow of communication going, while not being

success requires a rapid reaction to abrupt changes in

patience, persistence and continuous improvement, all while

business conditions. The impact of COVID on the Chamber

delivering services real-time with no changes in the Chamber

was certainly abrupt. A significant portion of the Chamber’s

schedule for the year. They did a tremendous job. The

revenues depend on the lodging tax in Montgomery. With

Eggs & Issues series with our Congressional Leaders is an

the onset of COVID, tourism was negatively impacted, and

excellent example. The Chamber built a studio from scratch

the occupancy rates in our hotels dropped materially. The

and delivered it virtually. The Chamber members loved it.

Chamber saw a 25-percent reduction in revenues. Anna

Attendance exceeded that of our in-person events, with the

[Buckalew, Chamber CEO] and her team took immediate

attendance being more inclusive of small business Chamber

action to ensure that they guarded the Chamber’s financial

members. I received several complimentary emails from

health and adjusted how they supported the members, our

people that virtually attended that typically did not attend in

business community. It worked. The Chamber is healthy, and

person. That’s a win in supporting the membership. Another

they did a great job of delivering their core mission during a

example would be virtually delivering the Diversity Summit.

difficult 2020, retaining and attracting business in the River

Again, it was very well attended and highly complimented.

Region while driving economic prosperity for all of us that call

Another win.

able to do it in-person. They had to utilize virtual tools, long before most of us were figuring out how to do it. It took

this place home.

What was the biggest hurdle to overcome for you as Chairman last year? Adjusting to

Can you outline some of the Chamber’s COVID-19 initiatives you feel were the most successful? With the help of the City and the County, the

the new virtual world. My comfort zone is face-to-face. The Chairman’s role requires a significant workload of communication to the members. And I could not do it face-to-

local small businesses most impacted by COVID. It was very

face. I had to learn how to do it live in a Zoom, live in a studio

effective. They raised $445,000 and oversaw the distribution

and recorded for both, multiple times a week. You can say I

to 139 grant recipients. It met the greatest need, when it was

have a much greater appreciation for the skills of those in the

needed. You can’t ask for much better business support than

broadcasting profession. The Chamber staff worked hard to

that.

support me, and I learned to do it with a smile, most days.

What was the biggest challenge the Chamber faced last year? The Chamber is in the communication

What are you most proud of, in terms of what the Chamber accomplished last year? The

business. Historically, they have done that face-to-face.

greatest 2020 accomplishment for the Chamber was their

COVID changed all that. The Chamber had to figure out how

role in the passage of the tax increase to support our public

16 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUBRIE MOATES.

Chamber launched a Small Business Relief Fund to support

“

The most valuable lesson I learned was how powerful our community can be if we work together toward a common goal that produces good for us all. We’re all humans. Deep down, we’re all the same, and we are much better together than we are apart.

17 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

education system. The Montgomery business community took a leadership role in that effort, and the Chamber organized their engagement. The Chamber worked very closely with MPS and our City and County leadership to ensure that the citizens’ opportunity to vote on the matter passed during the legislative session. That hasn’t happened in generations and certainly never in a shortened COVID session. It was a tremendous example of team-manship with our local legislative delegation, MPS, Mayor Reed, Chairman Dean, and many legislative supporters throughout the state. And then the work began. To be successful, the effort had to be run as a campaign, to educate the community on why this was so important. And campaigns are expensive. The Chamber met directly with the business community, MPS, the City and County and drove the process to raise $650,000. The campaign partnered with the faith community, and the message was well-delivered. The citizens of Montgomery chose to invest their hard-earned money in their public education system for the first time in more than 40 years. It was a fabulous testimony for people working together for a common cause, despite political, racial, ideological and socioeconomic differences. It was an example of joining hands, standing side-by-side and moving the community toward achieving our economic potential, which can only be accomplished with a strong public education system delivering excellent educational outcomes for everyone in our community. But the Chamber’s role is not done. In most ways, the real hard work begins now. The Chamber is working directly with MPS in organizing a Community Education Engagement Committee to support the many facets needed to generate a best-in-class public education system in Montgomery. To accomplish that, it will require complete community engagement in supporting MPS. I think Montgomery is up to it. I’ve never seen an investment made in a child fail yet.

Were there any silver linings to the upheaval and uncertainty of last year? Yes. It reminded us all of the most important element in working together as a team. It is not respect or appreciation. It is NEED. The most powerful element is needing each other. If we truly need each other, we’ll respect and appreciate each other. And we need everyone in the community to achieve our potential in public education. And that’s the way it is supposed to be. They are our kids.

Editor’s Note: At the end of last year, Arthur DuCote retired from his position of Market Executive at Regions Bank in Montgomery and the River Region. He served Regions and its predecessor banks for 28 years.

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M E M BE R profile

TONYA SCOTT-WILLIAMS Montgomery vocal talent Tonya Scott-Williams shares her warm, clear tone on local radio and as the voiceover for commercials and multiple marketing projects through her business Rise Media Group, LLC. But she’s not simply speaking; she’s combining her voice with an inclination for helping others to ensure her clients’ messages rise above the noise.

Are you from Montgomery? I’m originally from Greensboro, Florida, and moved to Montgomery for college. Although I thought I’d move away afterwards, I eventually got married, developed a wonderful network of friends and became involved in the community.

How and when did you first get into doing voice overs? I have a broadcast journalism background, first starting out as a reporter on WZHT, 105.7 radio station here and was eventually promoted to news director. I was also a reporter and talk show host at WVAS, FM 90.7. While in radio, I learned the inner workings of production, lending my voice to commercials and other projects at both stations. Then, I started a family and became a stayat-home mom, homeschool parent and co-owner of a financial services firm. I still managed to take on occasional voiceover projects, including voicing the opening videos for the Chamber’s annual meetings. In 2018, while trying to decide what was the next right move, I saw an opportunity to focus on my passion. Voiceover had always been meaningful and fulfilling so I decided to steer my energy in that direction and create my business, Rise Media Group, LLC. I took advantage of business building workshops and training sessions at the Small Business Resource Center through the Chamber, as well as The Small Business Development

Sound On “My favorite thing about voiceover work is being behind the microphone and giving voice to the vision my clients have for their their product or service as the words flow from my mouth, recognizing that they’re trusting me to convey a message to their target market. When I’m representing my

skills in the broadcast, production and marketing industry. Today, while I have a full-time job I enjoy, I fill the hours away from the office on business development, networking and voicing work for a growing portfolio of clients including the Montgomery Regional Airport, The Southern Poverty Law Center, The Mobile Water Works and Sewer System and a recent project I’m hosting for the Alabama Humanities Foundation.

clients’ vision, everything else fades away and the end product always amazes me.”

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.

project. I’m thinking about their audience,

Center at ASU and worked with a mentor to refresh my

What voiceover services do you provide? Corporate e-learning tutorials and videos, public address system and overhead announcements, commercials, audio books, narration, documentaries, emcee, company voicemail and on-hold messaging systems.

Why should a business or company consider using a voice talent pro to communicate their message? An experienced voiceover professional has the ability to connect with and influence a company’s target market. They’re able to take direction, offer suggestions and convey your message in a way that brings it to life. The last thing you want is for it to get lost in a sea of sound. As a voiceover professional, my goal is to compel the audience to listen to the message and draw them in your direction.

What did you enjoy most about hosting the BizTalk MGM radio show? As host of BizTalk, I had a unique opportunity to meet a variety of guests, most of whom are business owners. We have some remarkable people in this city who are committed to their vision and the clients they serve, and I enjoy hearing their stories unfold. It takes courage to maintain a business, and the road to success isn’t a straight line, so when they joined me on BizTalk, I learned from their experiences while exchanging insights and information that may be beneficial to the audience.

What are your interests outside of work? When I’m not working, I’m either volunteering or spending as much time as possible with my daughter before she goes back to college in January. I’m also an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys birdwatching. I’m a member of Women Business Owners of the River Region, the Chamber and Women of Will. And I’m the author of “Marvelous Marva Had a Dream,” published in 2018. It follows a remarkable little girl who, through her imagination, helps readers discover how the ordinary becomes extraordinary. I’m also the creator and host of the podcast, “Eat the Taco. Drink the Wine!” tonyascottwilliams.com

M E M BE R profile

KERI WATTS For almost 50 years, Kwik Kopyshop has been meeting copying, printing and graphic design needs in Montgomery, and for 30 of those years, Keri Watts has been a part of it. She’s proud of the part she and the business play in other local businesses’ communication and marketing efforts.

How long have you worked at Kwik Kopyshop and what is your role? I manage sales and production at our downtown location. I started working as a teenager tagging along with my dad, Tommy Nichols, who founded Kwik Kopyshop, in the summers. After graduating from Auburn University in 1991, when I started seeking jobs in Birmingham and Atlanta, my dad hired me. I came on fulltime in computer supply sales. Now, I have the privilege of working with my dad every day.

What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in your business in the last decade? The speed and quality with which we can produce documents. We’ve also made changes to stay relevant in the digital age. We now have an online presence for ordering convenience.

What is your favorite part of your job? Besides getting to work with my family and the best co-workers, I love working with and building relationships with my customers. I get to work with clients on projects like logistic signage or conference printing, and then help some of those same customers with personal projects like wedding announcements or birthday banners. I love hearing about all of the happenings they are planning and helping them create the perfect communication for their event. We get to help people get their businesses off the ground by steering them in the right direction with their print collateral.

Any recent milestones? Kwik Kopyshop is celebrating its 45th year in business. We feel truly blessed to have the opportunity to serve customers in our region.

What are your interests outside of work? I love to be outside hiking, camping, hunting or digging in the dirt.

“We are a family owned and operated business. My mom, three sisters, brother in law, niece and my kids have all worked for

Make-a-Wish fundraiser where we hiked 26.3 miles in one day. Along with my teammate Melissa Orr, we have raised more than $10,000 over the last two years. kwikkopyshop.com

Kwik Kopyshop at some point.” 22 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRACE O’CONNOR

I recently completed the Alabama Trailblaze Challenge, a

Family Affair

“Determined people working together can do anything.” - Jim Casey

TRENHOLM CAMPUS 1225 Air Base Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36108

PATTERSON SITE

3920 Troy Highway Montgomery, AL 36116 ACCREDITATION H. Councill Trenholm State Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. Contact the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia EQUAL OPPORTUNITY IN EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT It is the oﬃcial policy of the Alabama Community College System and H. Councill Trenholm State Community College that no person shall, on the grounds of race, color, disability, sex, religion, creed, national origin, age or any other protected class as deened by federal and state law be excluded from participation in, be denied beneets of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program, activity, or employment.

23 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

M I L I TA RY profile

LT. COL. BRIAN KIRCHNER Ensuring that all information moving through the Air Force-wide cyber network gets to the right place at the right time and gets there with privacy intact is the job of the Air Force’s 26th Network Operations Squadron based at Maxwell Air Force Base’s Gunter Annex. Ensuring the 26th NOS does this job well is the job of the squadron commander, Lt. Col. Brian Kirchner, and a year and a half into it, he couldn’t be more impressed with the members of his team.

Where are you originally from? Florence, Kentucky

How long have you been in the Air Force? I entered active duty in June of 2004, so I’ve been in for 16 and a half years.

How long have you been Commander of the 26th Network Operations Squadron? One and a half years.

What is the role/mission of the 26th NOS in the Air Force? The 26 NOS operates and maintains the Air Force Enterprise Network boundary, delivering cyber surety, availability and maneuverability through the employment of the Air Force Intranet Control cyber weapon system. In addition, the NOS maintains and operates the Air Force Wide Area Network, ensuring that information is routed properly and securely. We operate and defend the $14.2 billion Enterprise Network across 385 global sites in support of over 2.5

Pandemic Praise Secure information access is always key to Air Force missions, but during the COVID-19 crisis, it was even more important. The 26th work, according to Lt. Col. Kirchner: “Numerous members of the 26 NOS were personally recognized and presented with a special coin from the Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force for their work in support of Air Force-wide telework

Why is this role so important? All network traffic coming into and out of the Air Force network flows through 26 NOS equipment, which enables us to securely deliver necessary information, while denying our adversaries the ability to observe and manipulate Air Force network traffic. Our squadron operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to ensure that all Air Force users have continuous access to the data they need.

capabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.” MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL 24 24

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT FOUTS

NOS stepped up big and did award-winning

thousand applications and more than 1 million users.

“

“The airmen, civilians and contractors at the 26 NOS enable all aspects of the Air Force mission, from satellite launches to combat operations and everything in between, and their talent and ingenuity amazes me every day.” What are your duties and responsibilities as Commander? I lead and manage all aspects of the organization, including approximately 230 personnel and our weapon system, which is distributed at more than 30 locations worldwide.

What motivated you to serve in the Air Force? My primary motivation for joining the military was in order to serve our country while also taking advantage of the incredible leadership and growth opportunities that the military provides.

What is the No. 1 thing you’d like MBJ readers to know about the 26 NOS? The one thing I’d like people to know about 26 NOS is the professionalism and dedication of the members who provide enterprise IT services to the Air Force 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. IT is one of those services that is often taken for granted until something’s not working, but it takes a tremendous amount of work to keep it running, especially on the scale that 26 NOS covers.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your work? Without a doubt, the most rewarding aspect of my work is the people I get to work with every day. The airmen, civilians and contractors at the 26 NOS enable all aspects of the Air Force mission, from satellite launches to combat operations and everything in between, and their talent and ingenuity amazes me every day.

What are your interests and hobbies outside of work? I enjoy playing sports, reading, cooking and hanging out with my wife and four-year-old son, Charlie.

COMPLIMENTARY GRAB AND GO BREAKFAST OUTDOOR SWIMMING POOL, WITH GAS GRILLS AND FIRE PIT ALL ROOMS COME WITH FULLY EQUIPPED KITCHENS AMENITIES INCLUDE ACCESS TO FITNESS CENTER AND COMPLIMENTARY LAUNDRY PET FRIENDLY WALKING DISTANCE TO: Dozens of Bars and Restaurants | Montgomery Civil Rights Trail, including The Legacy Museum, Memorial for Peace and Justice and Rosa Parks Museum | Hank Williams Museum | Riverwalk Stadium | Alabama River with Scenic Evening Dinner Cruises on the Harriott II

GiveBack

PERSONALIZED PHILANTHROPY For more than 30 years, the Central Alabama Community Foundation has been providing guidance, pooling resources and growing money to help both individuals and businesses fund worthy causes and organizations that match their interests.

/ by MINNIE LAMBERTH

The Central Alabama Community Foundation stepped up in a big way during the worst of the COVID crisis, working with The River Region United Way on a fund to help those hit hard by the pandemic.

The Central Alabama Community Foundation spreads around

“We do all the due diligence on nonprofits,” Crenshaw said. “We

$4 to $5 million annually in our community, yet always at the

have the luxury of working on the donor side but also getting

direction of the donors who provide these funds. “We work

to know the nonprofits very well. We have some phenomenal

with individuals and businesses to help them further their

nonprofits in our region that do phenomenal work.”

philanthropic goals,” said Burton Crenshaw, who has served as CACF president since 2011. “We help facilitate how to give their money in the community.” With a lean staff of five, including Crenshaw, CACF offers donors several approaches for distributing charitable funds – each one customized to the donor’s interests. For example, a donor can set up a fund with CACF that functions similarly to a charitable savings account. The donor can direct which charities receive the funds, such as a church or other non-profits, or CACF can talk with donors

Not only can funds be distributed in the

Added Bonus “We have the luxury of working on the donor side but also getting to know the nonprofits very well.” - Burton Crenshaw

about their interests and advise them about

short term, but they can be used for legacy giving as well. “Every year for perpetuity, we give more out in their honor or memory to continue legacies of giving throughout families,” Crenshaw said. Nonprofits can also apply for grants managed by CACF in such areas as family wellness and education or cultural engagement. Importantly, the foundation doesn’t just serve wealthy donors. “Anyone can make a

the charitable organizations that would be a good match for their

donation to us, and we push money out,” Crenshaw said. The

donations. CACF does the work, and the donor receives the tax

“Community Champions” program, for example, is an annual

benefits.

giving opportunity for individuals to give at various levels to 26 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

support Community Trust Grants

donors come by referrals from

for area nonprofits meeting diverse

existing donors, some come from

community needs.

calls out of the blue, and they also work with financial planners.

In addition, CACF works with

As an example, Jerry Mitchell,

individuals who want to raise funds

Principal with Jackson Thornton

but don’t want to form their own

Asset Management, said, “We

nonprofit organization. In fact, they

frequently have clients who are

are currently assisting a group

inclined to make charities part

of individuals who wants to raise

of their estate tax planning. We

funds to erect a statue of the late

assist them by working with CACF

Civil Rights hero and congressman

CACF President Burton Crenshaw pictured here with River

to accommodate their needs. A

John Lewis in his hometown of

Region United Way President and CEO Ron Simmons.

good example of this is assisting

Brundidge. The Montgomery Police Department also operates a foundation through CACF. Since its founding in 1987 in Montgomery, the CACF has branched out to cover 10 counties and, over the last 30-plus years, has distributed more than $60 million to nonprofit charities and organizations. Although most donors have a tie to this

region, charities are not exclusive to communities in Central Alabama. “Donors could pick anywhere in the United States,” Crenshaw said. The local giving, however, has been particularly impactful over recent months. As of October 1, 2020, CACF had distributed more than $500,000 to area nonprofits and churches providing direct

a client who would like to use a Donor Advised Fund for their charitable gifts. In addition, we can help retirees with their retirement plan distributions by designating CACF for their Qualified Charitable Distributions.” Mitchell added, “We have a great working

aid related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

relationship with the team at CACF; they

Crenshaw noted that some of their new

organizations, so it’s a win-win.”

27 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

help us facilitate client giving to wonderful

MyMGM

SPOTLIGHT MGM The National Memorial for Peace and Justice and the accompanying Legacy Museum have contributed major buzz in the ongoing conversation

/ by MINNIE LAMBERTH

Photography by Bryan Carter.

that’s put an international spotlight on Montgomery, one that’s still bright despite the pandemic.

The compelling stories told at The National Memorial for Peace and Justice are drawing thousands of visitors from around the globe to Montgomery.

The National Memorial for Peace and

website explains, “explores the history of

landscape,” EJI Director Bryan Stevenson

Justice, which opened on a six-acre site on

racial inequality and its relationship to a

explained. “This shadow cannot be lifted

Montgomery’s Caroline Street in 2018, is

range of contemporary issues from mass

until we shine the light of truth on the

a stark and overwhelming reminder of the

incarceration to police violence.”

destructive violence that shaped our

generations of African-American citizens

nation, traumatized people of color, and

who experienced or witnessed the racial

The memorial and museum were created

compromised our commitment to the rule

terror of lynching in this country. Within the

by the Montgomery-based Equal Justice

of law and to equal justice.”

setting that brings this dark history to life,

Initiative (EJI), which was founded in 1989

visitors encounter 800 six-foot monuments

by renowned attorney Bryan Stevenson

These are topics that people far and

that, according to the memorial website,

and provides legal representation to

near want to learn more about. In fact,

“symbolize thousands of racial terror

people illegally convicted and unfairly

the memorial and museum have brought

lynching victims in the United States

sentenced while addressing other

significant attention to Montgomery

and the counties and states where this

initiatives such as prison abuse, unequal

over the last few years, and the tourism

terrorism took place.”

treatment or criminal justice reform.

numbers began showing an impact during

Together, the EJI sites share the legacy of

that opening year. “We saw about a 22

A companion site, The Legacy

slavery, lynching and racial segregation in

percent increase in expenditures by

Museum: From Enslavement to Mass

our communities and connect the dots to

tourists,” according to Dawn Hathcock,

Incarceration, opened at the same time

how this history influences today’s issues.

Vice President, Destination MGM and the

in an 11,000-square-foot building on

Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce.

Coosa Street that was once the location

“Our nation’s history of racial injustice

“We went up (in 2019) with expenditures

of a slave warehouse. The museum, the

casts a shadow across the American

going over a billion dollars. We have seen

28 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

tourism-related jobs go up by 18 percent.” During the first quarter of 2020, she added, “We were on track to pass those numbers.” The COVID-19 pandemic obviously altered that trajectory, but there’s no reason not to expect the activity to return to a high level when coronavirus concerns subside. These statistics are collected and released by the Alabama State Tourism office, usually in May of the previous year’s tourism expenditures, and include spending on food, gas, lodging and ticket sales. The sheer number of visitors to the sites is another indication of impact. “In the first year and a half, they had roughly 700,000 people go through,” Hathcock said. The memorial and museum are key pieces of Destination MGM’s strategy for increased post-COVID tourism in 2021, one that is, as Hathcock noted above, optimistic and is focused on reaching visitors searching for “purposeful travel.” She and her team are promoting the city as the historic hotspot it is, with emphasis on its world-changing happenings, including the formation of the Confederate government and then the birth of Civil Rights Movement in less than a century. Combined with the Rosa Parks Museum, Freedom Rides Museum, Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church (where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. preached) and more, EJI’s memorial and museum make Montgomery a must-see cultural destination in the South. And its reach goes far beyond local traffic and neighboring states in the region; the memorial and museum have also brought increased interest from major metropolitan areas in making visits to Montgomery. Hathcock noted that visits increased from the Northeast and West Coast, where Montgomery is not usually on the traveler’s radar. The EJI has continued to add more for visitors to see, learn and experience. In 2019, an addition to the memorial came with a

BRIGHT FUTURE The Alabama Tourism Department’s most recent annual report revealed that Montgomery experienced record-breaking tourism growth for 2019, with $1.025 billion in total revenue. This marked the first time in Montgomery’s history that tourism growth for the city topped the billion-dollar mark, representing a 5.6 percent increase over 2018, a 22 percent increase in the past two years and an 83 percent increase in the past ten years. This increase in spending directly impacted the city’s workforce, as visitors were responsible for 14,428 new jobs in the hospitality industry,

BIG BANG

Tourism is not just about visitors; it has a major impact on residents as well, energizing the local economy through tax revenue, job creation, spending in area businesses and more. How major? We’re so glad you asked.

an 18 percent increase in the past two years. With spending on hotels, restaurants, shopping and transportation significantly increasing, these numbers confirm that Montgomery is and

STELLAR STATS

continues to be an economic powerhouse for the state tourism industry. The pandemic put the brakes on this amazing growth, but Destination MGM, The Chamber’s team devoted to marketing the city for leisure and business travel, sees bright lights ahead for 2021. “While COVID-19 has impacted the travel industry, we know that together we will prevail,” said Dawn Hathcock, Senior Vice President, Destination MGM. “Travel is a force that brings us together and transforms our lives for the better and moving forward, tourism in Montgomery will continue to be a powerful component of the city’s resurgence. We see big things for this year in terms of tourism.”

monument to victims of terror lynching or

29 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

$1.025 BILLION total tourism-related revenue (2019)

14,428 NEW JOBS in the hospitality industry (2019)

MORE THAN 700,000 VISITORS to the EJI sites in the first 1.5 years

violence during the 1950s and includes such names as Emmett Till. In early 2020, the EJI expanded its

A NEW MISSION “The Museum and Memorial have put Montgomery

facilities further with the addition of the Legacy Pavilion at 400 North Court Street, which is a few blocks from the museum. A gift shop located in the Alley was transferred to the Pavilion, and an exhibit opened there on the Transatlantic Slave Trade. “I consider it kind of the hub,” said Tera DuVernay, Deputy Director

on the national stage

FOR ALL THE RIGHT REASONS

and in front of people who might not have considered coming to Alabama or our city before.” - Dawn Hathcock

of Museum and Memorial Operations,

Transatlantic Slave Trade Exhibit will be returned, and other exhibits will be added. “We’re hoping the construction will all be complete during the fall of this year,” DuVernay said. Both the museum and memorial share compelling stories, tales of truth that need to be told, and the city’s willingness to tell them is changing perceptions for the better. Hathcock expects this image boost will continue to have a positive effect on the city’s tourism business,

said of the Pavilion. Visitors can park their

open, pandemic shutdowns led the EJI

which is a plus for all area residents.

cars and take shuttles to the different

to begin an expansion on the Pavilion.

“The Museum and Memorial have put

sites. They can also enjoy a meal at the

The main gift shop was temporarily

Montgomery on the national stage for all

Southern cuisine restaurant, Pannie-

moved back to its Alley location, and

the right reasons and in front of people

George. The Pavilion is the second

construction began on additional exhibit

who might not have considered coming

location for Pannie-George, which was

space. “We’re anticipating really huge

to Alabama or our city before so they can

begun by chefs in Auburn and serves a

crowds post-pandemic,” DuVernay

confront our history and learn from it in

menu of soul food.

said. “We want to open up and make

order to move on,” she said.

sure there’s new things to see.” The Although the restaurant has remained

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31 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Industry Overview: LEGAL

“

The legal and business community are part of a symbiotic relationship where one cannot succeed without the other.

MAKING

THEC THE VERDICT IS IN: Mo n t g omery’s l eg a l i n d u st ry i s fa ci n g c ha l l en g es a n d ch a n g es b u t st i l l t a k i n g ca re o f c l i en t s a n d b en ef i tt i n g ou r commu n i t y. BY JENNIFER S. KORNEGAY

32 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

The legal profession is one of the world’s oldest and most enduring. Today, it is estimated that there are 1.33 million practicing attorneys in the United States. Montgomery County has an impressive number on its own; according to the Alabama State Bar Association, there are currently 1,600 lawyers here. At the most basic levels, the services lawyers provide and the role they play in our society have really not changed that much, even in the last century. But there is a major shift underway. The legal industry is embracing diversity like never before, and one of Montgomery’s most well-known lawyers, Jere Beasley, believes it will prove the distinctive difference-maker in the industry’s near and long-term outlooks. “The legal industry has changed dramatically since I came here in 1979,” the founder of Beasley Allen law firm said. “We see now how

ASE diversity is so critical to success.

Our firm is a prime example: When we

hired the first African-American lawyer, I actually received some criticism, and while that was decades ago, that still shocked me. But since then, diversity has grown in our firm and grown everywhere.” And it keeps growing, promising more positives for the

33 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Industry Overview: LEGAL

future, as Beasley explained. “We are now

“

seeing more female law students than ever before, and that’s great for the industry,” he

LEGAL INDUSTRY IN BRIEF

Local legal industry experts say their industry is currently strong and stable. “As the local economy goes, so goes the legal industry,” Davis Smith said. “Prior to COVID-19, the local economy was doing fairly well, and local firms were hiring to address the increased demand for legal services. COVID-19 created a shock to the system, but the legal industry seems to have weathered the storm.”

said. Other Montgomery firms have also seen the benefits diversity brings and are making achieving it a top priority. “Recent tragedies have highlighted the lack of diversity in our profession, and the industry has truly refocused on the meaningful actions we can take to fight inequities and increase diversity, equity and inclusion within our firms,” said Riley Roby, Managing Partner at Balch & Bingham, LLP. “At Balch, we created a new position, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer and are actively recruiting to fill that role.” The firm also recently launched Balch Business Boost, a program that supports entrepreneurs of color as well as women-owned businesses and start-ups by providing free or low-cost legal services. Increased diversity is an industrywide

TROUBLING TREND Attorney Jere Beasley has been in the legal profession for more than 40 years, and in that time, he’s witnessed a lot, but recently, a new issue has surfaced. “There seems to be a growing disrespect for the rule of law nationally, and that is the most troubling thing I’m seeing in relation to our profession and to society overall,” he said. “Once the rule of law is diminished in everyday life, we are heading for big-time problems, so I am hoping this changes.”

goal, according to Davis Smith, Partner at Bradley Arant Boult Cummings, LLP. “There is a more intentional focus on diversity,” he said. “The legal industry understands that to better serve clients, the demography of the legal community needs to be better representative of the local community.”

Davis Smith Partner at Bradley Arant Boult Cummings, LLP

Our area also boasts diversity in the types of attorneys practicing here and the services they offer, which is equally important, giving Montgomery residents and local businesses the expertise and representation they need to conduct a wide array of daily activities and transactions. “Our city is unique as a capital, we have governmental lawyers, we have legal services like Southern Poverty Law Center, we have great tax lawyers and commercial lawyers, plus those in litigation like our firm,” Beasley said. “All in all, we have some really great lawyers here.”

CONSTANT CHANGE

Jere Beasley Founder, Beasley Allen Law Firm the same way, today’s lawyers are facing a world that’s being altered by the minute, requiring them to be flexible and able to adapt — and adapt quickly. “I believe the skills that lawyers need to be successful are evolving faster than ever. People joining the profession today need to be more tech-focused and business savvy than ever before,” said Roby. The relentless advance of technology has been affecting the industry for a long time. In the past, access to information was the

Another notable change is simply the rate

most noticeable impact. “There is such a

of change itself. After years of doing things

massive amount of information out there

34 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

I ND U ST RY Leader | Legal

Davis Smith

George Parker

Charles Stewart

Stanley Gregory

Rudy Hill

Jessica Sparhawk

Joshua Blades

Robert Poundstone

Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP When was your firm founded? 1870

and communities and passion for our work. Our firm combines unsurpassed integrity with a flexible and professional approach to

What are your primary services? Bradley is a

advance our clients’ interests.

national law firm that provides business clients around the world with a full suite of legal services in dozens of industries and

Milestones & Awards: Our Montgomery office and its

practice areas. The firm has 10 offices located in Alabama, Florida,

attorneys have been recognized with numerous accolades for

Mississippi, North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and the District of

their work in recent years, including: five attorneys being listed in

Columbia that provide an extensive geographic base to represent

the 2021 edition of The Best Lawyers in America®, two of whom

clients on a regional, national and international basis.

were named “Lawyer of the Year” in their respective practice areas, numerous top rankings in Chambers USA for 2020, three attorneys

What sets your firm apart? Although Bradley is a

listed in the 2020 Mid-South Super Lawyers, several attorneys

large law firm with nearly 550 lawyers, our clients still enjoy the

named Fellows of the National Bar Foundation, and two attorneys

personal attention, responsiveness and deep relationships they

being named recipients of the 2020 Alabama State Bar President’s

would expect from a boutique firm. Our attorneys combine legal

Award.

experience, deep knowledge and a sophisticated understanding of industries to find practical, strategic solutions specifically tailored to our clients’ needs. Bradley has retained the tradition of Southern hospitality over the last 150 years, even as the firm has grown into a global force. As one of only a handful of U.S. law firms to reach this milestone, the firm has developed a national reputation for serving businesses around the world with respect for our clients, colleagues 35 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

RSA Dexter Avenue Building 45 Dexter Avenue Ste 9075 334-956-7700 / bradley.com

Industry Overview: LEGAL now,” Beasley said. “We may have a case where we have millions of documents to process; that’s so different from just 20 years ago.” Technology has led to more available information but with so much of it in digital form, it’s also made it easier to store and disseminate information. Now, COVID-19 has accelerated the pace, pushing the increased use of technology for basic communications. “The legal industry was already undergoing a transformation driven by regulatory, technology and competitive demands. COVID-19 fundamentally changed the way we work and collaborate with each other and our clients,” said Roby. Smith elaborated on Roby’s point. “Many law firms shifted to working remotely, requiring the lawyers to depend heavily upon virtual

What one thing has changed the most in the legal industry since you began working in it?

“

“The biggest change in the

not using the phone book to

legal industry field that I

find lawyers; now they are going

have observed is the use

to their Facebook business

of computers and digital

page, Twitter page, LinkedIn

technology. In the past, all

and Instagram. To stay relevant

documents had to be physically

and profitable, law firms have

filed at the

to adapt to this social media

courthouse.

environment.”

Now,

- LaKesha B. Shahid, Esq.,

documents

Partner, Shahid & Hosea LLC

may be electronically filed, which

“The greatest change that has

is so much

occurred in the 35-plus years

other lawyers and clients,” he said.

faster. Files

of my law practice is without

that once had to be stored

question technology. I recall

Roby noted the heavier emphasis on

physically can now be stored in

attending a

a cloud. The primary marketing

meeting of

tool was the yellow page ads.

the Alabama

Today, the marketing outlets

State Bar

have expanded exponentially to

about

include television, billboards and

30 years

social media platforms. Because

ago and

of COVID-19, court appearances

listening to

are now being done by Zoom

a presenting

client service,” Roby said.

videos and/or telephone

attorney make the prediction

dockets.” - Sandra Lewis,

that in the near future every

COVID-19 also created hurdles in the

Law Office of Sandra Lewis, P.C.

attorney would have their own

platforms to communicate with judges,

data security in response to this shift, as more data and conversations, which are often confidential, are being stored in and surging through cyberspace. “New legal technologies are continuing to emerge, and the industry is making new investments in tools to help lawyers collaborate and deliver enhanced levels of

computer on their desk or

courtroom, resulting in a slowdown for legal cases that need to be litigated, as Richard Ball, Partner at Ball, Ball, Matthews & Novak, P.A., explained. “With the suspension of in-person court proceedings, lawyers have had to adapt to using technology such as Zoom for depositions, in-court hearings, conferences, etc., COVID has delayed the

credenza. There were quite a “The legal field is ever changing,

few chuckles around the room

but one thing that has changed

because at the time, computers

in the legal

for the most part were thought of

field is the

as being the size of most kitchen

necessity to

refrigerators. Look how far we

have digital

have come. Now most attorneys

footsteps.

use their handheld smart phones

Social media

linked to their tablets, laptops

he said.

changed

and PCs.”

the way we

- Charles L. Anderson,

Despite the challenges inherent in this

obtain clients,

Anderson, Williams & Farrow,

interact with clients and now

L.L.C.

disposition of litigated matters generally,”

required and rapid evolution, Beasley believes there is a silver lining. “It has been difficult to be sure, but it has made

how we represent clients literally (virtually). Potential clients are

36 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

I ND U ST RY Leader | Legal

Anderson, Williams & Farrow, LLC Practice Areas

When was your firm founded? 1997 How many employees do you have in the River Region? 28 What are your primary services? Law practice What sets your firm apart? As the provider law firm

• Personal Injury

• Criminal defense

• Worker's Compensation

• General litigation

• Family law and divorce

• Small-business related needs

• Bankruptcy

• Dispute resolution

• Probate and estate administration

for LegalShield ™ in Alabama and Mississippi, our attorneys are equipped with the technology and training to focus on what

7515 Halcyon Pointe Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334-272-9880 / awf.law

matters most in providing legal services with a concern for the client experience in the process. Many clients are fearful and apprehensive in dealing with lawyers and the law. We try to be mindful of this reality.

Milestones & Awards: The firm was named in U.S. News & World Report Best Law Firms 2021. "No representation is made that quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers."

37 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Industry Overview: LEGAL

“

lawyers and law firms become more

River Region economy, providing jobs

efficient,” he said. “I hope that carries over

for paralegals, legal assistants as well

and continues after this is all over.”

as lawyers, not to mention the economy generally,” Ball said. Smith also pointed

HELP WANTED

According to local lawyers Davis Smith and Richard Ball, finding good people to fill their firms has grown a bit trying in recent years. “Attracting qualified personnel is a challenge,” Ball said. Smith agreed. “Recruiting young talent is always an issue. The challenge is the competition with other markets such as Birmingham, Huntsville and Nashville,” he said. “But the developments of downtown entertainment districts and local attractions such as the National Memorial for Peace and Justice have put the spotlight on the region in a positive way that will hopefully attract visitors as well as potential new residents.”

Many of the solutions enacted to fix

to job creation as a plus his industry

COVID-related issues have been so

provides, as well as the many attorneys’

beneficial, it’s unlikely they’ll roll back,

inclination to “give back.” “The legal

even when we’re done with the pandemic

industry in the River Region continues

and all its problems. “It looks like there is

to offer well-paying jobs that may be

a light at the end of the tunnel with the

attractive to talent who did not grow up

development of vaccines for the virus,

here,” he said. “There also remains a

but the flexible methods adopted by firms

collegial atmosphere among the lawyers

for delivery of legal services as a result of

through participation in the Montgomery

COVID-19 will probably be here to stay,”

County Bar Association and other non-

said Smith.

profit organizations, which directly benefit the local community.”

Roby echoed Smith. “COVID-19 changed the way we work as lawyers. As a firm,

Smith also praised the Chamber’s role

I believe we adapted really well and

in forging and maintaining relationships,

stayed connected to each other and our

for members of his profession and the

clients, virtually,” he said. “I believe many

business community at large. “The

of the technological changes are actually

Chamber creates a platform for local

here to stay. This situation enhanced

businesses to learn more about legal

our ability to be flexible and efficient, it

issues that they need to be aware of

truly transformed the traditional work

and the local lawyers who are available

environment.”

to offer assistance,” he said. “The legal and business community are part of a

CONNECTION COUNTS

symbiotic relationship where one cannot

There is a constant, an aspect that

succeed without the other. The Chamber

remains the key to success in the legal

helps nurture the growth and success of

industry: relationships. And the bonds

this relationship.”

that tie our legal industry to the community are as strong as ever. “The legal profession is a large and important part of the

COVID-19-CAUSED COUNSEL TRENDS “Right now [late December 2020], we are seeing an increased demand for counsel in several key areas as a result of the pandemic. Many law firms are experiencing an increase in demand to help businesses solve disputes caused by COVID-19, which includes issues such as breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duties and disputes between creditors and debtors. For employers, new issues are arising after employees have been working remotely for such a long period of time. Businesses are relying on their law firms to help them navigate lawsuits arriving out of employment relationships. There is definitely an uptick in these practice areas.” - Riley Roby, Managing Partner at Balch & Bingham, LLP 38 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Riley Roby Managing Partner at Balch & Bingham, LLP

I ND U ST RY Leader | Legal

Shahid & Hosea LLC When was your firm founded? June 29, 2010

Foundation. Shahid & Hosea LLC has given back to the community through participating in career fairs at local public schools, junior

How many employees do you have? 2

colleges and universities to encourage youth to enter the legal field and become entrepreneurs. LaKesha Shahid received the 2019

What are your primary services? Legal services What sets your firm apart? Time devoted to knowing

Trailblazer Award from Ashi Magazine and is recognized in the National Black Lawyers Top 100.

and understanding the needs of clients. We have substantial experience in the areas we practice. We are honest and realistic with our clients. We don’t say what our clients want to hear; we help our clients set realistic outcomes for their cases.

Milestones & Awards: The lawyers of Shahid & Hosea LLC have served as officers in numerous organizations, including Capital City Bar Association, Alabama Lawyers Association and the Volunteer Lawyers Program. Additionally, Shahid & Hosea LLC has been recognized for the past four years for service for pro bono cases in the Volunteer Lawyers Program. Attorneys Shahid and Hosea also served on the Montgomery County Bar

1709 Taliaferro Trail, Montgomery, Alabama 36117 334-279-5399 / shahidhosea.com

39 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

40 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Serving Clients Serving the Community

For more than 70 years, Capell & Howard, P.C., has offered a comprehensive range of legal services to clients throughout the River Region, central Alabama, and the Southeast. Our impact here at home is just as important to us. · Administrative Law · Alternative Dispute Resolution · Estate Planning, Probate & Trust · Appeals · Governmental Affairs · Asbestos & Toxic Torts · Health Care · Bankruptcy, Workouts & Creditors Rights · Insurance Defense & Regulation · Commercial Real Estate & Title Insurance · Intellectual Property · Construction & Procurement · Litigation

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iCourt

VIRTUAL COURT SYSTEM

What is iCourt? iCourt (U.S. Provisional Patent #: 63/077,637) is a software application designed specifically for virtual, audio/visual court sessions, including arraignment hearings, first appearance hearings, motion hearings and trials. The application facilitates encrypted interactions between citizens and court staff, including the solicitor, public defender, probation officer, clerks, interpreter and the judge.

One Consistent Enterprise Experience

Custom Sort Features

Digital Forms & E-Signature

Transfer & Invitation Features

Overview Feature

icourtapp.com www.facebook.com/iCourtApp www.instagram.com/icourtapp www.linkedin.com/company/icourt-app

Testimonial “I have been a judge since 1996. Never in a million years could I have anticipated the abrupt changes we would have to make to court operations as a result of Covid-19. Municipal court calendars tend to be very heavy and I couldn’t figure out how we were going to resume court operations. The existing platforms just didn’t check all the boxes for me. I was delighted to discover the iCourt platform. It addresses every aspect of the court appearance process for both the citizens and court staff. Simple, efficient and written in plain English, the intuitive system is agile and flexible. It has enabled us to fully resume court operations. We have no intentions of returning to in person court hearings. iCourt is the gold standard for virtual court and I highly recommend it.”

The Honorable Monica Ewing

Judge – City of College Park | Hapeville | Fairburn Municipal Court, GA

To learn more & schedule a DEMO to see iCourt in action, please visit https://icourtapp.com. U.S. Provisional Patent Application #63/077,637

iCourt vs Others iCourt

WORKFLOWS

Others

iCourt has a workﬂow process citizens must follow before being sorted into a designated staff person’s virtual “waiting room” queue.

In most cases, all attendees join the same room.

The Court clerk can customize how early and how late citizens are able to join a scheduled court.

Attendees have limited options. In most cases, they only can either join before or after the host.

SCHEDULING Court clerks can schedule and provide each citizen with a unique/computer-generated passcode to login.

In most cases, all attendees use the same login password.

If the offender has an attorney, a passcode for the attorney can be generated so that attorney and offender can be together when talking to court staff.

In most cases, there is no differentiation between offenders and attorneys, everyone joins the same room all at once.

Court clerks can reset/reschedule an offender with a new court date right away while privately talking to the offender.