Montgomery Business Journal - September 2018 by Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL VOLUME 10 ISSUE 5 / SEPTEMBER 2018

MBJ

MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BIG THINGS

BREWING IN MGM

F-35 UPDATE, TRC, DIVERSITY SUMMIT

PLUS:

W E A LT H M A N A G E M E N T O V E R V I E W & HOW TO LEVERAGE LINKEDIN MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

CONTENTS S E PT 2 0 1 8

THIS ISSUE: 10 34 40 47 52

Guiding Light: We a lt h Ma n a ge me n t

Overview

Chamber Diversity Summit TRC 2018 Corporate Gift Guide Regional Impact: Ala ba ma

B rewe r y Trail

26 Powerhouse Q&A: C a r l B a r ke r 28 Member Profiles: C lin t H a hn , Edwa rd Pe tt wa y a n d La u re l Teel

56 GiveBack: La n dma r ks F ou n da t ion 60 #MyMGM: F. S cott F it zge ra ld Mu s e u m 62 Small Business Briefcase: Le ve ra gin g L inked I n

CHAMBER NEWS:

08 Events 64 Connect 68 Connect Resource Guide 71 Members on the Move 74 Members in the News 79 Business Buzz 87 Ribbon Cuttings 90 New Members 94 Intel

MBJ

THE NUMBER ONE BUSINESS SOURCE FOR MONTGOMERY AND THE RIVER REGION

MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESIDENT Randall L. George DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS Jina Miniard

EXPLORE MEDIA PUBLISHER Pam Mashburn

MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Stewart Kornegay

ART DIRECTOR Erika Rowe Tracy

DESIGN Heather Cooper, Shelby Berry Shubird

CONTRIBUTORS EDITORIAL Jennifer Kornegay, James Hadley Griffin, Minnie Lamberth, Melissa Warnke PHOTOGRAPHERS Bryan Carter, Nick Drollette, Robert Fouts, David Robertson Jr., Eric Salas, Donna Wallace King ON THE COVER A flight of Railyard Brewery beers. Photography by Robert Fouts ADVERTISING Kristina Boddie and Christina Bennett / exploreMedia / 334-578-7810 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 2018 exploreMedia and the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved.

MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MISSION STATEMENT

Committed to exceptional service, the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce works to improve the economic well-being of the business community and enhance the quality of life of the area through the creation and preservation of jobs. 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. Subscription rate is $30 annually. Periodicals Postage Paid at Montgomery Alabama, 36119+9998, USPS NO. 025553. Volume 10, Issue3. 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.

7 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

CHAMBER NEWS

Events +

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

Small Business Diversity Workshop Series 3:30-5:30 pm at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel

OCT

Upcoming Workshops

This year’s Workshop Series topic is “Strategies to Diversify Your Business” and features innovative and motivating speakers: Dr. Chris

60 Minute Coffees & Business After Hours

Jones – Diversity: Talent & Innovation – Looking for Opportunities in All the Wrong Places and Michael Brathwaite & Marilyn Booker – Your Business and You: Golden Rules for Becoming Financially Independent. This event requires

These popular networking events are the perfect place to exchange business cards and meet potential customers.

a separate ticket and is not included in the

9/27

Diversity Summit registration. Workshop Sponsors: ADAMSynergy, LLC and Kalm Services, LLC

CHAMBER DIVERSITY SUMMIT OCT

Business After Hours Sponsor & Location: Rehab Select at Hillview Terrace

Check out the Diversity Summit article and full agenda starting on page 34.

Diversity Summit 8 am-3:30 pm at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel

This highly anticipated event features dynamic speakers from across the country and offers an intense one-day agenda full of diversity and

10/10 60 Minute Coffee Sponsor & Location: Hospice of Montgomery

10/25

OCT

Eggs & Issues with Bradley Byrne, 7:30-8:30 am at the RSA Activity Center

This exclusive and popular Eggs and Issues breakfast features Congressman Bradley Byrne as he discusses the issues impacting our region from a local, national or international

CHAMBER MEMBER ORIENTATION October 31, 8 - 9 am at the Chamber’s BRC

11/7

Chamber, and give a brief overview of

Whether you’ve been a longconnect and engage with the

60 Minute Coffee Sponsors: Alabama Ag Credit & ALFA Farmers Federation; Location: ALFA Farmers Federation

your business, product or service. It’s the

11/15

more in tune with everything

have a passion for that group

topic. A good bit of the coming wealth transfer

happening, but clients are too,”

because I have two millennial

is going to females, and they often have differ-

Sprague said. “They are so much

kids. The way that generation

ent questions and needs, so just being aware

more aware of what’s going on in

interacts with their advisor is

of that is important. One big thing is women

the market, so we have to stay at

and will be different; it has to

tend to live longer, so it’s crucial that they

the top of our games.”

be, because they communicate

are involved in the investing and retirement

differently,” he said. “We’ve re-

planning process in the event of outliving their

Despite all the differences in

cently brought on a few advisors

husband or divorce. The main message is that

the industry today, the basics of

in that age group, and I have a

women do not need to wait to take control of

the business have not changed.

reverse mentorship with them. I

their own futures.

“The way we do things is no

ask them all the time, ‘What are

longer the same, and the bar

y’all thinking?’ and ‘How do you

has been raised,” Sprague said.

see this?’”

“But there is no technology that

continued on page 20

QUICK TAKE

EXPERT ADVICE We asked some of our sources to share one piece of wealth management advice.

EDWARD WELCH

16 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Develop a plan you can live with through all market conditions; understand all that can happen because it probably will; and understand the risks you choose to take and why.

I N D U ST RY OV E RV I E W

/ WEALTH MANAGEMENT

IN THE MARKET?

NEED A FINANCIAL EXPERT OR A PLACE TO START IN CHOOSING A WEALTH MANAGEMENT REPRESENTATIVE?

KRISTIN SMITH, AND PATTY FRANCO, Regions Private Wealth

TAKE YOUR PICK:

CHOICES, CHOICES

Management We’re actually working hard on this. We conducted a survey with Vanderbilt University a few years ago focused

Montgomery and the

on women with questions

River Region offer multiple

relating to wealth. Based on what we learned from that, we implemented a program called HerVision, HerLegacy. It’s companywide now, and the entire focus originated in

options when it comes to PATTY FRANCO

KRISTIN SMITH

Lending Advisor,

Trust Advisor,

Regions Private

Wealth Management

ment segment of Regions. As part events like Investing 101 with the goal of empowering women to get educat-

comfortable and will ask questions.

it easy for you and your Check out the long list of

wealth, but beyond that, we’re

of that, we have held and will hold

in a luncheon setting so they feel

professionals, making business to find the right fit.

the Private Wealth Manage-

ed on their finances. We hold them

wealth management

working on figuring out how to best

Chamber-member wealth

handle things internally. How do we

management and financial

create leadership here that includes

advisors in the Chamber’s

women? We’ve been very intentional about promoting women in our organization because that is what

online Member Directory at montgomerychamber.com.

potential female clients look for, and

EDWARD WELCH,

we’re really enjoying the diversity

Welch Hornsby

we’ve created here. It is benefitting

We are looking at how to better

us in multiple ways beyond client

access and serve women with

growth.

Take the necessary time to set goals and create a solid game plan to reach those goals; monitor and stick to your plan; and most importantly, seek assistance from a reputable financial professional often.

Start saving early. And surround yourself with good advisors.

LARRY GROCE

KEARY L. FOSTER 17 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

President/CEO of Wealth

Management Partners, LLC.

18 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

M EM BER Spotlight

SPRAGUE STEVENSON WEALTH ADVISORS Sprague Stevenson is a wealth management firm based in Montgomery with clients throughout Alabama and several other states. It was founded by Jeff Sprague and Steve Nash. WHEN DID YOU START THE BUSINESS? We started the business in 2012 after many years of discussions about what was the best way to run a “financial services firm” and invest for clients. Jeff had been with several large national firms that had been acquired. When that happens, the culture of the firm changes and not always for the better for clients or the advisor. Steve was with a large regional broker and investment bank and had left several years earlier and was already independent. WHAT IS YOUR PRIMARY OBJECTIVE AS A BUSINESS? We believe that we have to serve clients in the best way possible. So first we have to provide for them a really good, solid, sound strategy that will help them with their goals and objectives. If that goal is retirement, which it often is, then we want to give them the best possible strategy for their retirement accounts to grow and grow as safely as possible by managing risk. Second, we believe that best way of providing sound strategy toward achieving their retirement objectives is through research about what worked well, or didn’t in the past. Better service then (our viewpoint anyway) comes by assembling all the knowledge, facts and data that we can about what has happened in the long history of the U.S. equity and debt markets by strategy type. Then we analyze the data and spend a lot of time reviewing statistical profiles of how well or how poorly fundamental investing strategy types did in the past. We like to think in terms about what is statistically probable in the future using data from the past. Out of that, hopefully, comes better strategy. We believe in it, and our own accounts are invested this way. DO YOU REVIEW HOW WELL THESE STRATEGIES HAVE DONE IN ALL MARKETS IN THE PAST? Yes, we have to. A strategy in our view is only as good it looks after it has been tested by a bad market. For instance, some of the best strategies available for doing well in the equities market over long-term periods did no better and some were slightly worse than the entire market itself in bad markets. The difference among the best strategies is that they tend to bounce back really well after bad markets like 2000-2002 and 2008. The best strategies usually bounce back better than the market as a whole after bad markets. Which is key because as Warren Buffett has said, the best time to make money in the stocks is after pessimism has ruled the market for a while.

Left to right: Jeff Sprague, Steve Nash and Julia Schneider, Office Manager

CAN YOU TALK ABOUT SOME OF THESE STRATEGIES? Sure. First, you hear a lot on business cable channels and websites about investing, including stock tips. We ignore all of that. The reason is unless we’ve seen over a long-term period how a particular strategy worked in the past we’re not going to use it. Second, there are a few things in our research that become themes. Companies that don’t require too much capital to generate high profit margins do really well. We call those quality investments. And anything that has shown consistent profitability in earnings that you can buy at a discount tends to do really well also. We call these value investments. There is a lot more to it than that, but in a nutshell when we put quality and value investments into our clients’ portfolios we firmly believe that over a long-term period of say at least five years, they are going to be in great shape. Because facts and history are on their side. IS THERE ANY ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE OUR READERS WHO ARE THINKING ABOUT WHAT TO DO IN THEIR OWN ACCOUNTS? Yes. First, think long-term. Jeremy Siegel (Wharton business school professor and author) has written that the U.S. stock market itself has never been negative over any 20-year period. Now he wrote that a while ago, maybe before 2008 but his point is clearly stating how good U.S. equities have been for Americans for the last 80+ years or so. Second, make sure you have good, sound long-term investment strategy through your advisor. And yes, we acknowledge that some people like to go it alone by doing it themselves. Regardless, to be successful you have to stick to it. The hard part is sticking to it. The caveat is if you have no faith in what you’re doing strategy-wise hanging in there is hard, especially when markets turn down. Third, buying stocks gives you ownership interest in a company. At the end of the day do you want to own a bad business or a good business? Good businesses are usually very profitable and bad businesses are not. Please think of that the next time a relative or friend gives you a hot stock tip about some growth company that is the latest flavor of the month. Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Cambridge Investment Service, a Registered Investment Advisor. Sprague Stevenson and Cambridge are not affiliated.

334-356-7300 / SPRAGUESTEVENSON.COM 19 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

IN D UST RY OVERVIEW

/ WEALTH MANAGEMENT

While he acknowledges the differences, Shoffner stressed that there are common bonds when it comes to money. “Millennials and the younger people behind them are different, but the con-

QUICK TAKE

We asked some of our sources to share one piece of wealth management advice.

cerns are basically the same,” he said. “The 2008 recession is memorable to them, and it made many pretty risk adverse and even more conservative than some of my older clients, which is

GEORGE SMITH

available in the River Region, achieving

It is never too early to plan and our goal, often, and especially with younger clients, is to create longrange retirement planning. If you save and invest over a long period of time, then your capital works for you in the retirement years. - Principal at Jackson Thornton

that goal is attainable.

Asset Management

the opposite of what you’d expect.” No matter their age, life stage or even amount in their account, people who choose to employ a wealth management professional do so for one reason: They want the peace of mind that comes from expert advice and calm counsel. With hundreds of options

20 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

JEFF SPRAGUE As difficult as we advisors try to make it, wealth management really isn’t that complicated. If a person properly manages their wants, they’ll never have to worry about their needs. - Managing Partner of Sprague Stevenson Wealth Advisors

I ND U ST RY Leader | Wealth Management

Jackson Thornton ASSET MANAGEMENT LLC

Founded: 1999

one can predict the future of financial markets; and that investment portfolio construction and management require planning, structure

Employees: 13

and discipline.

Primary Services: Jackson Thornton Asset Management

Accomplishments & Milestones: JTAM has more

(JTAM) provides investment advisory and wealth management

than $1 billion in assets under management. The firmâ€™s parent com-

services. We manage client portfolios and assist clients with wealth

pany, Jackson Thornton, will celebrate its centennial in 2019.

management solutions, including cash flow management, risk management, estate and charitable planning services. In addition, the firm offers investment solutions for employer retirement plans.

What Sets Us Apart: Our core investment belief: disciplined investment management. The tenets of that belief include recognizing that risk and expected return are related; that financial markets are efficient at processing information; security prices

200 Commerce Street, Montgomery, AL | 334-834-7660

reflect the knowledge and expectations of all investors; that no

21 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

jt-am.com

IN D UST RY OVERVIEW

/ WEALTH MANAGEMENT

KEEPING THE PEACE:

SMALL BIZ SUCCESSION PLANNING Money stays pretty near the top of the

"We encourage succession planning

“things people fight over” list, and when a

as early as possible, as many as 10

small business owner is looking to retire, if

to 15 years ahead of their desired

they don’t have a sound succession plan

retirement. Doing it sooner gives

in place, they are asking for discord and

them more control of the outcome."

disaster. The odds of encountering struggle and strife only go up if the business

how and when to transition their business

is family owned. And yet, it’s a topic that

to either children or other non-family-mem-

some put off discussing with their wealth

ber owners. “If they wait, it can be difficult,”

management advisor. “Often, when we

he said. “We see too many owners who

bring it up, it may be the first time our

have to work longer than they wanted

strategies, but understanding the family

client has thought about it or talked about

because they didn’t look ahead, so we en-

dynamic and its goals first is key,” Smith

it even though most of their wealth is tied

courage succession planning as early as

said. “Do the kids want to be involved in

to their business,” said George Smith,

possible, as many as 10 to 15 years ahead

the business? Do they want to sell it all to

Trust Advisor with Regions Private Wealth

of their desired retirement. Doing it sooner

someone else? Sometimes we become

Management.

gives them more control of the outcome.”

something of a referee for a family, but in

GEORGE SMITH

those cases, we serve everyone’s interests He and the rest of the wealth management

Each situation is unique, meaning a cus-

team have helped many clients decide

tom approach is critical. “There are many

as an impartial, transparent party.”

22 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

I ND U ST RY Leader | Wealth Management

Regions Private Wealth Management Founded: 1871 (as First National Bank of Montgomery)

Milestones & Awards: Regions Private Wealth Management was recognized by Barron’s as one of the Top 40 Wealth

Employees: 20 associates locally and approximately 575

Management firms and received the “Excellence Award in Wealth

associates company-wide

Management” by Greenwich Associates in 2017. Regions Private Wealth Management serves clients across 15 states with approx-

Primary Services: Investment management, trust and

imately 575 associates and managing more than $18 billion in

estate administration, natural resource and land management,

assets.

business succession planning, retirement planning and liquidity management.

What Sets Us Apart: Our highly dedicated financial team is dedicated to delivering an unbiased, comprehensive approach to wealth management. Our local team has combined experience of 350-plus years, with six law degrees, a registered Alabama Forester and a CFA Charter-holder (Chartered Financial Analyst). Our team-based approach helps us best serve your specific banking, investment and financial service needs to help you meet your goals.

201 Monroe Street (RSA Tower), Suite 280, Montgomery, AL 334-230-6100

regions.com/wealth-management/private-wealth-management

23 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

I N D USTRY Leader | Wealth Management

OakRing Investments Primary Services: The Montgomery advisory team of

A successful financial life isn’t just about wealth. It’s about what

OakRing Investments has the intellectual capital to meet the needs

wealth can accomplish. Our approach to wealth management

of most any individual or small business. Advising more than $1.8

starts with the person and sometimes the entire family. Personal

billion for families, businesses and non-profits across the South-

input helps us organize a financial life into three key strategies:

east, we have expertise in a variety of areas. Our Retirement Plan

Liquidity to help provide cash flow for short-term expenses; lon-

Consulting Services team can deliver customized advice based on

gevity for longer term needs; legacy for needs that go beyond the

defined priorities. We can provide investment advice as an ERISA

first generation. Thinking about money in this way helps someone

fiduciary, provide updates on fiduciary issues, and analyze fees

to understand where their money is invested and why. It keeps the

and expenses of any type of Retirement Plan.

focus on long-term goals no matter what the markets are doing. The benefit is what we call the “sleep at night” factor.

What Sets Us Apart: While research spotlights that 40 percent of small business owners are considering an exit strategy,

Advisors: Chris Dubberly, CPM; Leah Dubberly, CFP, CDFA;

only a very small percentage have a formal exit strategy, business

Kevin Haynes, CFP, CRPS; Daniel Dean, CFP

appraisal or structure to shield the proceeds of selling a business. “Monetizing a business owner’s life work” for retirement is complex. We can help in promoting the healthiest family transition or transaction sale to a third-party buyer possible. We facilitate good communication among the client’s other advisors and craft individual financial plans for multiple owners.

4001 Carmichael Road, Suite 400, Montgomery, AL 334-260-3900 | ubs.com/team/oakring

24 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

25 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

VESTOR IN

OFIL

Q&A

CARL BARKER Carl Barker has been in his current position as President and CEO of ServisFirst Bank in Montgomery for a little more than a decade, but he’s been working in the industry for close to 50 years. It’s no stretch to say banking’s in his blood. He shared some thoughts on his company, banking overall and where he sees the city headed. Are you from Montgomery? I’m from Selma, but I had Question? Answer.

relief. Here, our goal is to make banking as easy as possible

family in Montgomery, so we visited a lot. Then I was here

for our clients, and too many regulations over your shoulder

when I went to Huntingdon College. I moved here again in

can make that difficult.

early 1996 to serve as president of First Alabama Bank.

What do you love about your job? I like that this How long have you been in banking? I started in

bank is an aggressive bank, in terms of our growth. I’m

banking in 1971 at First National Bank of Birmingham.

working with a group of people who are some of the best

How long have you been with ServisFirst? I start-

tomer needs, and we are all on that same page. I really enjoy

ed in 2007 when its Montgomery location was founded.

working with my customers too, finding ways to assist them

bankers I’ve ever worked with. They are so focused on cus-

in every way we can with their financial needs.

How is ServisFirst different? While we are a fully on businesses, so we are really a commercial bank. We ap-

What are your thoughts on the city’s current business climate? I think the business climate here is

preciate every client and account we have, but what we spe-

as good as I’ve seen it since I’ve been here. There are so

cialize in day in and day out is commercial banking. And we

many positives: our partnerships with the military, such an

have a great group of highly experienced commercial bank-

energized environment, and our Chamber does a fantastic

ers here. I also think our service philosophy sets us apart. We

job in comparison to other cities our size. Our customers are

say it all the time, but it’s true: “Service is part of our name,

feeling good about the economy too, both nationally and

and our name is what we do.” Finally, we have grown and

locally. We see them expanding their businesses, buying new

succeeded mostly on referrals. People who bank with us, like

equipment and other things for first time since 2008.

chartered bank with the services of other banks, our focus is

us and are quick to tell their friends and colleagues. Almost 80 percent of our accounts come from referrals. It’s interest-

What are your thoughts on the city’s future?

ing to note that we started the bank just prior to the financial

It sounds like a broken record, I’m sure, but we do have to

crisis, and yet, we continued to grow during that time. That is

improve our city’s public education system. It is essential for

partly due to the fact that we are very nimble. We can make

business. But I see this core group of people in Montgomery,

decisions right here and in a timely fashion.

many younger people, who are really interested in and active in advancing the city in multiple ways, including the business

What changes and challenges have you seen during your decades in banking? Technology and

climate. I would like to think because of that we will begin to see more businesses starting here and growing here.

computers have changed everything. All banking transactions are faster now. And laws and regulations have changed.

What are your interests outside of work? I’m on

When I started banking, we carried loan notes around on

the board of trustees at Huntingdon College. I’m passionate

a small pad we could put in our pocket. They were not the

about that. The Family Sunshine Center and Child Protect are

novels that loan documents are now. You could do a loan

two local organizations that I support because the work they

over lunch. That has all evolved over many years, but after

do is important. And I believe it’s part of the bank’s responsi-

the 2008 crisis, I think we got a little over-regulated, and I be-

bility to give back too, so we do. I really enjoy hosting events

lieve everyone in the industry is looking for some regulatory

for different groups here at the bank.

26 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT FOUTS

PO WERHOUSE

Bank On It “It’s interesting to note that we started the bank just prior to the financial crisis, and yet, we continued to grow during that time. That is partly due to the fact that we are very nimble. We can make decisions right here and in a timely fashion.”

27 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

M EM BE R profile

CLINT HAHN Clint Hahn is somewhat new to the capital city, and

Happy Anniversary:

with TASTE, the wine and tapas bar he owns and runs

We just had our one-year anniversary, which in Montgomery can be a huge milestone. We are so thrilled to have had so much patronage from the community and hope it will continue for years to come.

with his wife Ginger, he’s giving his new home a new way to experience a wide range of wines plus a menu of small-plate dishes perfect for sharing.

When did you open TASTE? May 24, 2017 Are you from Montgomery? No. My father was in the military, and home was wherever we were. I have traveled extensively and spent the last several years in San Antonio, Texas. I returned to Montgomery after getting married to a local, Ginger (Pridgen) Hahn.

What got you interested in opening a wine and tapas bar? I have worked in the restaurant industry for many years and have a passion for great wine and food. When I relocated to the Montgomery area, I felt my concept of a wine/tapas bar would work well since this particular concept was not being represented in the capital city.

Describe the experience at TASTE. TASTE has a very extensive wine list for the area. We offer wine flights that allow our guests to try three different wines at once without the commitment of a glass. From our “Bubblicious” sparkling flight to our “Big Bad Cabs” flight, we have something for everyone. Additionally, we offer a large variety of craft beer, in-house crafted cocktails along with a full bar. Our tapas menu changes frequently and with the seasons to provide variety and freshness. The tapas concept allows guests to order several items and share them, providing a wonderful dining experience.

What’s your favorite thing about your work at TASTE? Not being from Montgomery, I have enjoyed meeting new people in the area, cultivating what I hope will be lifelong relationships and creating what I consider new experiences in food

What are your interests outside of work? I love sports and try to hit as many beaches as possible, as often as possible. tastemgm.com

28 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT FOUTS

and wine.

MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM 29 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM 29

M EM BE R profile

EDWARD PETTWAY Running the operations in Montgomery for Nashville-based Parking Management Company means Edward Pettway knows cars, but he’s got an engine of his own. His passion for customer service is what drives him daily.

How long have you been with Parking Management Company? For two years, and I am the City Manager here in Montgomery.

What services does the company provide? We provide the highest level of valet services for various properties and events.

What sets PCM’s services apart? We currently employ thousands across the country, and our valet attendants understand they are very often the first contact a customer will have when they arrive. We pride ourselves on providing a world-class first and last impression to facilitate our clients’ vision of the customer experience.

Who are the company’s primary clients? We consider every client our “primary client,” but we provide services for weddings, private events, hotel parking/valet services, and we also manage parking garages.

What does your job entail? My job duties are to make sure that I am finding the right candidates to carry out our clients’ expectations, so I help groom future leaders and build our client base.

What’s your favorite thing about your work? My favorite thing is making new leaders and getting great feedback from my clients. I love hearing that we are going above their expectations.

Any recent milestones? We have grown to three out with only one a year ago, and we plan to continue

Point of Pride:

to grow in this market.

Customer service is what I love to do and providing great care to my clients and giving

What are your interests outside of work?

that one-of-a-kind service is what I strive to do.

I like to go swimming, bike riding and shooting pool. parkingmgt.com

30 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.

properties here in the Montgomery area. We started

Professional Clerical (334) 265-4100 Industrial (334) 265-0100 300 Arba Street Montgomery, AL 36104 www.walkerworkforce.com

WorkForce “Since 1957” Walker Personnel, LLC

Over 61 Years

of serving the River Region! Call us for all your staffing needs! PROFESSIONAL

CLERICAL

31 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

INDUSTRIAL

32 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

M EM BER profile

LAUREL TEEL As Development Director for Child Protect, Children’s Advocacy Center, Laurel Teel spreads the word about the good work the organization does and oversees fundraising efforts to ensure it can continue doing it.

How long have you been with Child Protect? Since September of 2015 What is the mission of Child Protect? The mission is to interview, counsel and to be an advocate for children when there are allegations of abuse. Our organization exists to minimize the trauma experienced by child abuse victims and to rebuild young lives.

What does your job entail? As the Development Director, I am responsible for all things that are special events, fundraising and marketing related. I coordinate both of our major fundraisers, Barrel of Blues and our Swingin’ Fore Kids Golf Tournament, run our social media accounts and oversee our 15-member Junior Executive Board. Because we are a small staff of six people, our tasks often overlap.

Are you from Montgomery? I am from Wetumpka, went to college at Auburn and soon after, moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, for a few years and loved that experience. But when I would think about my future, I would always picture myself back in the River Region, specifically Montgomery, making a difference in my community.

What’s your favorite thing about your job? At Child Protect, we see the absolute worst in humanity, and some days really test your faith. But then, I open the mail and see that we got a sweet note from a donor with a

Building Strong

donation, or that we received a grant we really needed, or

Child Protect is nearing the end

even that someone just takes the time to comment on our

of a two-year capital campaign

Facebook page that they are praying for us, and all my faith

for its new building addition

in humanity is restored.

and has raised nearly 80

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.

percent of its goal. Construction

What are your interests outside of work?

is almost complete, and the

Spending time with family and friends, going to my family’s

organization is excited about

house on Lake Martin, traveling, spoiling my niece, weekly

expanding its counseling and

supper club, browsing our local flea markets and attend-

community education programs

ing Cloverdale concerts in the park.

with the added space.

childprotect.org

33 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

CHAMBER DIVERSITY SUMMIT

VIVA VARIETY

Diversity can be a major difference maker for businesses of all types and sizes. Learn how embracing it can be beneficial at the 2018 Diversity Summit.

always strive to meet the needs of our community, and this event is a part of that,” said Sheron Rose, the Chamber’s Vice President, Community Strategies. “Having

Inclusive teams make better business de-

These are numbers businesses can’t afford

our business community and community at

cisions up to 87 percent of the time. That’s

to ignore, one of the many reasons the

large more informed on these issues helps

just one of the impressive findings from a

Chamber is again hosting its 2018 Diversity

them in their business while also contribut-

2017 study conducted by Forbes focused

Summit on October 2 and 3. The event is

ing to the creation of a more well rounded

on quantifying the benefits of diversity and

designed to enlighten, inform and encour-

community.”

inclusion in business settings. Here are

age our area’s business community on

a few more eye-opening results from the

multiple topics that the umbrella of diversity

Dr. Chris Jones, Executive Director of the

research:

and inclusion covers.

Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub and one

• Teams that follow an inclusive

Through a variety of speaker sessions, the

like the Summit are important because the

process make decisions two

event aims to help member businesses

thing that keeps business leaders up at

times faster with half the meetings.

better understand what diversity and inclu-

night is their company’s productivity. Even

sion truly means and why not just embrac-

when they are also concerned about pos-

ing these concepts but fostering them in

itively impacting society, they know they

by diverse teams delivered

their day-to-day operations and decisions

have to have a healthy business to do that,”

60 percent better results.

is key to success in recruitment, retention

he said. “In a diverse and inclusive environ-

and to having a healthier bottom line. “We

ment, you see increases in productivity.”

of the Summit’s speakers agreed. “Events

• Decisions made and executed

34 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Research in a 2015 report

“DIVERSITY MATTERS” finds that companies in the top

quartile for gender or racial and ethnic diversity are more likely to have financial returns above their national industry medians. (Source: study conducted by McKinsey & Company, a global management consulting firm)

WHY IT WORKS We asked Andrea Roger Mosley, Director of the Small Business Development Center at ASU, to share her thoughts on the impact of the Diversity Summit.

Why are you so supportive of the event? It gives our business community the opportunity for diversity to really be discussed, and it provides chances to network. It also opens the door to increased innovation here, since we know that

MAKE A MENTAL NOTE: Diversity means so much more

than differences in race and gender, the two categories that often come to mind. Diversity of thought, which stems from different ages, backgrounds, cultures and life experiences, is every bit as important, particularly when it comes to solving problems and fostering innovation.

diversity fosters innovation.

ANDREA MOSLEY

Director of the Small Business Development Center at Alabama State University

Who gets the most out of this event? There’s something for everyone. It creates

What are your thoughts on how a

a space where all these entities come

business’ internal culture can affect

together to learn from one another. Millen-

the community at large?

nial and older generations, women, veter-

When the business community can come

ans: All these groups do things differently,

together and have all groups in the room,

but they can all benefit from the others’

when new relationships are formed, it

perspectives.

bleeds out to the wider community.

35 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

WHO’S WHO: 2018 DIVERSITY SUMMIT SPEAKER PREVIEW

DR. GAIL EVANS

Former CNN Vice President & author of New York Times bestseller “Play Like A Man, Win Like A Woman” Session Speaker I always want to teach the men and women in the room that difference is okay, and if you really want diversity, then what you want in the room are people who think differently and may have different attitudes on issues. And this isn’t about doing what is right and moral; it’s about how you achieve a better

With a packed agenda, this year’s Summit

result for your organization. I also focus

is focused on a broad question: How does

on how being authentic is important in

internal culture impact the external culture? The Chamber has invited several speakers, who among themselves illustrate diversity in area expertise, to provide their insight. Here’s a preview of what they’ll share at the Summit.

business. One of the messages women and other minorities have gotten through the years is, ‘You need to be somebody else. If you want to succeed, you need to figure out how to be just the way the white men are.’ But that’s wrong. You need to be you and be authentic, but also be strategic. And being strategic is something women are not

View the full speaker schedule at montgomerychamber.com/DiversitySummit

as good at in a business setting, while they’re very good at it in their personal life. So that’s why I wrote my book and why I’m now going across the world to help get more women in leadership.

36 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

KEVIN STACEY

DR. CHRIS JONES

Opening Session Speaker

Small Business Series Speaker

When we talk about diversity, thought diversity is a crucial con-

Embracing and creating a diverse environment – and that means

sideration. It’s amazing to me how everyone thinks so differently.

people’s backgrounds and ideas – leads to new ways to solve

What you find stressful, I may not. And especially now, in a very

old problems and quicker identification of new challenges. It’s

segmented society, we see a lot of

hard to find new, different ways to do

confirmation bias, that is, we only

things with all the same minds. And it’s

see things that back up our existing

about more than just having diversity

beliefs. So part of my focus is how to

at the table. Those voices need to

deal with your internal “fake news.”

know they will be heard; they need to

We need to use our minds to have

be encouraged and engaged. I’ll be

more control over where our brain

talking about how we’re often looking

goes. Often, we’re wasting energy

for talent and opportunities in all the

on self-created problems, not real

wrong places. I believe that if we really

problems. The big takeaway is don’t

want to be business leaders on the

let your internal “fake news” become

leading edge of innovation, we have

front-page news in your life or work, which will also negatively

to find our talent in diverse pools, places we haven’t traditionally

impact the external. I will present some ways to overcome that.

looked. It’s not a novel concept; it is essential for survival in the

CEO and Founder of TrainRight

Executive Director of the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub

long term.

37 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

38 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

DIVERSITY SUMMIT THE FUTURE: DIVERSITY. TALENT. INNOVATION.

Internal Culture and Its Impact on External Culture

OCTOBER 3, 2018

RENNAISSANCE MONTGOMERY HOTEL & SPA AT THE CONVENTION CENTER

REGISTRATION STARTS AT 7:30 A.M.

CONFERENCE STARTS AT 9:00 A.M.

DIVERSITY SUMMIT AGENDA BREAKFAST RECEPTION 8:00 A.M.

KEYNOTE LUNCHEON 11:45 A.M.

MPAC Atrium

Alabama Ballroom Presenter: Essye Miller, Department of Defense Principal Deputy Chief Information Officer Emcee: Candy Capel, Owner, CC’s Daiquiris

Join us for a reception to celebrate diversity, engagement and inclusion. OPENING SESSION 9:00 A.M.

Thought Diversity - How to be Resilient and Mentally Tough with a Stone-Aged Brain Presenter: Kevin Stacey, CEO & Founder, TrainRight, Inc. Room: MPAC Theatre BREAKOUT SESSIONS 10:30 A.M.

Growing as an Intentional InclusionistTM Presenter: Dr. Nika White, President and CEO, Nika White Consulting; Author, The Intentional InclusionistTM Room: Riverview Room 3 Becoming a Leader of One: Raising the Bar on your Millennial Workforce Starts by Empowering Them to Raise the Bar on Themselves Presenter: Caleb Bagwell, Certified as a: Financial Planning ® Practitioner, Fiduciary Advisor, and Member, John Maxwell’s Team Room: Montgomery Room 5 Opportunities Through Shattered Glass: A Generation Explains Presenter: Dr. Kimberly P. Johnson, Motivational Speaker, Author, Shattered Glass: A Generation Explains; Tadean Page, Founder, Motivating Males Initiative Room: Montgomery Room 7

BREAKOUT SESSIONS 1:15 P.M.

The Millennial Mindset - INVITATION ONLY CEO SESSION Presenter: Caleb Bagwell, Certified as a: Financial Planning® Practitioner, Fiduciary Advisor, and Member, John Maxwell’s Team Room: Riverview Room 4 Art of the Conversation: Using Vocal Art to Advance Inclusion Presenter: Jonathan Parker, Director of City Involvement, Fellowship Greenville Room: Riverview Room 3 Cultural Diversity as a Path to Innovation Presenter: Dr. Angelle Khachadoorian, Associate Professor of Anthropology, Department Chair Culture/Region in AFCLC, Air University Room: Montgomery Room 5 Building a More Inclusive Tech Culture Presenters: Tanya Lambert, Supervisory Acquisition Program Manager, Business & Enterprise Systems Directorate, Maxwell AFB Gunter Annex; Jacqueline McKinney, Principal Software Engineer, General

39 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Dynamics Information Technology; Steve Meany, CEO, Information Transport Solutions; Charisse Stokes, President, Tidal IT Solutions Room: Montgomery Room 7 BREAKOUT SESSIONS 2:30 P.M.

Ingenious not Invisible... What Women Veterans Really Want You to See Presenters: Jolisa Webb Dudley, Associate Director, Outreach and Retention, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Room: Riverview Room 3 Be Yourself, UpLYFT Others, and Make IT Happen! Presenters: Jonathan Buckner, Public Policy Manager, Lyft, Inc. Room: Montgomery Room 5 Playing by the Girls’ Rules Part II Presenters: Dr. Gail Evans, Best-Selling Author, Play Like a Man, Win Like a Woman Room: Montgomery Room 7 For complete session descriptions and speakers bios, visit montgomerychamber.com/DiversitySummit

(PULL OUT) Don’t Miss It: TRC kicks off on Septem-

TOTAL RESOURCE CAMPAIGN 2018 / BUILD ON

TAKING

CARE OF BUSINESS It’s TRC time again, and this year is shaping up to be better than ever, with multiple ways to market your business to the people who matter.

40 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

ber 11 and continues through mid-November.

DON’T MISS IT

TRC kicks off on September 11 and continues through mid-November.

The Chamber’s Total Resource Campaign (TRC) kicked off for the

The value of TRC to the Chamber

first time in 2006, and in the last

is underscored by the caliber of its

12 years, it has been successful on

past chairs, including Leslie Sand-

multiple levels. It provides funding

ers, Vice President, Southern Di-

for the Chamber’s important initia-

vision at Alabama Power, who led

tives, provides opportunities for

the effort in 2014. She outlined its

volunteers to get more engaged in

impact. “I’m confident that every-

the Chamber’s activities and pro-

one who has attended any of the

vides its volunteers with beneficial

Chamber’s programs and events,

exposure in the business commu-

which are funded by TRC, can

nity and the community at large.

attest that they are first-rate,” she

This year’s campaign kicks off on

said. “Each provides valuable net-

September 11.

working opportunities and unique

Over a few months each fall, the work done by TRC raises money

“Members increase their

to help fund a large majority of the

business and community

programs, events and communications the Chamber hosts and organizes throughout the entire year. TRC volunteers (who work at Chamber-member businesses and organizations) reach out to

awareness by marketing through Chamber programs and products. And the entire community benefits by accelerated growth created by

other businesses and offer them

successful well-funded

unique ways to market and grow

programs.”

their business through sponsorships that span across all Chamber departments. By investing in TRC,

- Patsy Guy, Vice President,

Member and Investor Relations for the Chamber

member businesses connect to the vital programs and resources they need to grow their business.

access to speakers who share

Sponsorships not only impact

their expertise. Over the years,

the Chamber, they fuel economic

I’ve sat in numerous Chamber sem-

growth for Montgomery and the

inars and meetings and have left

River Region.

informed, motivated and inspired,

41 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

and without TRC, the resources

Sanders summed up why she

would simply not be available to

was so happy to donate her time

organize such meetings or bring

to TRC and why she continues to

renowned speakers here.”

support the program. “Every day, the Chamber sets about its goals

Past TRC chair Larry Puckett, owner

to bring new businesses to the

of Larry Puckett Chevrolet, agreed.

area and keep existing businesses

“The TRC allows the Chamber to

healthy and informed,” she said.

offer more services to our mem-

“In doing so, jobs are created and

bers,” he said. “And that not only

that elevates our entire communi-

gets a lot of people involved with

ty. Recent successes in technology,

the Chamber, it also exposes the

strengthening partnerships with

people who are involved to other

the military and continued business

members that they may not know.

development should give all of us

Plus, by funding member services,

great confidence in the future. I

it means more of the Chamber

stay involved because I’m excited

budget can be used for industrial

for Montgomery’s today and

recruitment and helping existing

tomorrow.”

businesses.”

MORE THAN A MEETING Past TRC chair and Vice President,

Southern Division at Alabama Power Leslie Sanders explained how many Chamber events have value that goes beyond what’s on its agenda. “While some may see an event as only a speaker or a luncheon, I view each as an opportunity to get to know someone better or to introduce a new idea into our community. The events may last an hour, but the conversations around the room often last for 30-45 minutes longer. From those conversations may come a new idea in education, workforce development or the introduction of a new business to the area – The entire community is better when we share ideas.”

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42 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

43 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

ON THE GROUND / VOLUNTEERS Every year, committed volunteers use their time, talents and connections to sell TRC’s wide range of marketing products. This group of 25-30 people is the foundation of TRC and the drive behind its success. It’s a labor of love, but they see benefits too, as these two longtime volunteers explain.

LIZ SUTTON

President, Alabama World Travel/Sutton & Associates  TRC Volunteer since 2006 Why do you participate in TRC? I love working with companies to help them secure sponsorships that support their mission

ARLINDA KNIGHT

Director of Title III-B & Continuing Education, Trenholm State Community College TRC Volunteer since 2006

and goals. The Chamber has

FIRST PLACE

such extraordinary programs that require sponsorships to

Ray Petty, who serves on ServisFirst

make it happen. We have been

Why do you participate in TRC?

Bank’s board, was TRC’s first-ever

blessed with a strong sense of

chairman, and he’s proud of what it has

community spirit from our local

It allows me to promote both

grown to become. “I believe strongly in

companies. It is rewarding to

my employer, Trenholm State

the Chamber and the many ways it ben-

create a win/win for everyone,

Community College, and the

efits our community,” he said. “That’s

Chamber. It also lets me help

the main reason I agreed to chair TRC,

open doors for business owners

but also because I believe in the pro-

by sharing with them the great

gram. It is a much more efficient way to

benefits of becoming involved

get sponsorships for Chamber events

with the Chamber that many are

and programs, both for the Chamber

not aware of.

and for its members. That first year was

Why would you encourage oth-

also really fun, and it has gone on to be

ers to get involved with TRC? For those who are interested in developing relationships and expanding business opportunities, involvement in TRC is a

more and more successful.”

“

“The TRC allows the

great way to accomplish that

Chamber to offer more

goal. It’s an excellent way to

services to our members.

make great connections. What benefits have you and your business seen from your participation in TRC? As a participant, Trenholm State is more visible, and we have experienced the development of several new relationships that led to an interest in educational opportunities.

By funding member services, it means more of the Chamber budget can be used for industrial recruitment and helping existing businesses.”

- Larry Puckett, Past TRC chair Larry Puckett, owner of Larry Puckett Chevrolet

44 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

especially Chamber members. Why would you encourage others to get involved with TRC? It is a great way to grow your own network. Getting involved with the Chamber and “Volunteering to be Visible” gave my business credible exposure, and many strong relationships have been borne from this. And selling sponsorships for TRC has been a significant way to grow my skills in sales, relationships and the critical importance of follow up. The rewards of working in TRC are greater than what I contribute. What benefits have you and your business seen from your participation in TRC? I was able to get in the doors of CEOs that I had been unable to in the past. I’ve also become a better leader, organizer and sales person.

GET STARTED / TRC OFFERINGS The marketing opportunities available to area businesses – many only available during TRC – have proven extremely effective thanks to their visibility, credibility and flexibility. Businesses can choose avenues that reach the

PLAY YOUR PART

entire Chamber membership, or they can hit a target audience. That’s why many businesses participate year after year. These are just a few of the TRC sponsorship and marketing opportunities that will be available this year.

NEW MONTGOMERY HOSPITALITY ACADEMY

become an annual event, will bring all of Montgomery’s unique military and de-

This is your opportunity to set your brand

fense partners together for updates and

apart as an investor in one of the most

discussions. The River Region Defense

impactful industries in our economy —

Summit will be a function of the new River

tourism. This professional training course,

Region Defense Council that brings to-

developed by Troy University Continuing

gether military commanders representing

Education in partnership with the Cham-

specific missions within the broader River

ber, the City and the County, offers 16

Region footprint, including missions of the

hours of training to both the management

Alabama Air and Army National Guard,

and staff-level employees of hospitality

U.S. Air Force and Reserve components.

related business such as restaurants, attractions, hotels and event venues. One session is offered in the spring and in the fall.

NEW STATE OF TALENT Expert speakers will present a regional overview, provide insightful analysis and review the critical needs related to devel-

NEW MGM IMPACT MAKERS MGM Impact Makers is an awards pro-

oping a workforce pipeline.

businesses within the community who

NEW THE REAL ELEVATOR PITCH COMPETITION

are making an impact. The impacts are

Montgomery college business students

centered on the Chamber’s Imagine A

will give innovative entrepreneurial pitch-

Greater Montgomery High-Impact Priori-

es on real 22-story elevators in the tallest

ties: Talent, Economy, Image, Community

building in Montgomery for a chance

and Military.

to win money and prizes to fund their

gram honoring and recognizing member

business ideas.:

NEW DIVERSITY DIALOGUE Enhance your brand and be seen as a leader by making diversity and inclusion a top priority. These seminars will be facilitated by top industry leaders and provide best practices needed to thrive in today’s diverse and global economy. Two events will be hosted during the year.

TRC FAVORITES: These popular sponsorship opportunities may not be available for very long: • Chairman’s Circle

NEW RIVER REGION DEFENSE SUMMIT

• Annual Meeting

This event will be during Military Appre-

• Conversations: Roundtables

ciation Week in November 2019. The

• Eggs & Issues Series

for Professional Women

River Region Defense Summit, slated to

45 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

OTHER WAYS TO GET CONNECTED AND ENGAGE:

• Enewsletters • TechMGM Forum • Chamber Orientation • Web Banners • Enhanced Listings • Networking Events • Chamber Golf Classic • Economic Summit • Military Appreciation Events

M EMBE R Spotlight

RJ YOUNG RJ Young continues to grow its brand of customer-centered business solutions services for the capital city a year after moving into the market. Despite being a newcomer in Montgomery, the company has been in business since 1955 and is recognized as the largest independent office technology dealer in the Southeast. WHEN DID RJ YOUNG OPEN IN MONTGOMERY? May 2017 NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 13 WHAT ARE RJ YOUNG’S PRIMARY PRODUCTS & SERVICES? RJ Young provides solutions to securely manage paper and digital information, maintain vital information technology systems and empower businesses with leading printing and copying technologies. WHAT IS RJ YOUNG’S BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY? To provide innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to excellence and integrity for our people, customers and communities. We strive to provide an environment where our people can achieve their personal and professional goals, exceed our customers’ expectations and utilize our resources as an investment in the community. WHAT MAKES RJ YOUNG STAND OUT? RJ Young puts customer satisfaction at the center of our business. We stand behind every product and service we offer with our “We Make It Right” guarantee. If customers are unhappy with our equipment, service, supplies, billing — anything — we will make it right, right away. ANY RECENT MILESTONES OR AWARDS? RJ Young has received awards, recognitions and certifications from many leading brands that we offer, including Canon, Ricoh, Lexmark, HP and Océ. We pride ourselves on consistently delivering award-winning service to every customer and partnering with the best brands in the industry. WHAT IS ON THE HORIZON FOR RJ YOUNG IN MONTGOMERY? Since moving to the Montgomery area over a year ago, we have seen lots of growth, and we see more on the horizon. We plan to continue to expand our teams and become more involved in the community. We are excited to open our new office this fall. 895 LAGOON COMMERCIAL BLVD / 334-230-5107 / RJYOUNG.COM

46 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

AT E & CL NT

FT GUIDE

The

Business of

Gifts

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIKA TRACY

H OW TO G I V E S U B S TA N C E & STYLE

47 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Everyone likes getting presents, and whether youâ€™re looking to reward an employeeâ€™s accomplishment, thank a valued client or get your logo and message out to the masses with giveaways, choosing the right gift for the occasion (and at the right price!) is key. Use this handy-dandy corporate gift guide to get your ideas flowing.

HATS OFF! Classic adjustable, snap-back caps, available from LogoLand Marketing, as low as $7.50

IN THE BAG Customized leather duffle bag, available from LogoBranders

WRITE ON HOT

(AND COOL!)

STUFF

Insulated, stainless steel tumblers and water bottle, available from LogoLand Marketing, as low as $8

48 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Covered journal with lined pages, available from LogoLand Marketing, as low as $16.30

ALL TO G E T H E R N OW

Whoever said less is more is wrong. More is more. Give abundance and variety with a gift basket packed with an array of goodies. Check out the options from Tucker Pecan.

WHAT A TREAT State-shaped bamboo cutting board, available from LogoLand Marketing, as low as $18.50 Tin of assorted plain and candied pecans, available from Tucker Pecan Company, $32.95

49 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

BEYOND BASICS Custom commemorative bowl, available from LogoBranders Customized award, available from LogoBranders

50 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

M EM BER Spotlight

LOGOBRANDERS Headquartered in Montgomery, LogoBranders has been helping businesses enhance their images for 25 years. YEAR FOUNDED: 1993 NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 45 WHAT ARE LOGOBRANDERS’ PRIMARY PRODUCTS AND SERVICES? LogoBranders develops branded merchandise concepts for internal and external marketing and is a turnkey operation with an in-house graphics department, stateof-the-art screen-printing and embroidery equipment, warehousing for customer-branded merchandise and fulfillment. HOW CAN PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS BENEFIT A BUSINESS? Promotional items work by making your brand thrive through constant exposure. We work with companies on employee-related events, new hires, recognition for years of service and awards. We work with marketing departments on creating brand awareness through trade shows, dimensional direct mail and dealer incentive programs. We work with safety departments to help reinforce education and to reward employees for milestones. We also work with multiple universities on alumni and student events, giveaways and donor gifts, among other areas. WHAT IS LOGOBRANDERS’ BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY? We are not a web-only service. We are a people service. WHAT MAKES LOGOBRANDERS STAND OUT? LogoBranders is an independent, woman-owned, full-service promotional product distributor. Founded by company President Terry Southern Parker, LogoBranders has grown to be ranked in the top 1 percent of Hard-Earned distributors of promotional items and corporate apparel, with major business and Awards institutional customers across the nation The Promotional Product Association and Canada.

recognizes industry excellence with its Pyramid awards. Only 25 companies

WHAT IS ON THE HORIZON? We will within the 7,500-member association continue to invest in our state-of-the-art are recognized each year. facilities, education and most importantly LogoBranders has received two our people. With a corporate culture that is Pyramid awards. filled with employees that are as unique and creative as the products that we produce, we are able to continually diversify ourselves into new markets.

334-277-1144 / LOGOBRANDERS.COM

51 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Regional Impact

MGM TAPS THE MARKET / by JAMES HADLEY GRIFFIN Craft beer is brewing into some big business for our state and our area.

Back in the Day The records can get a little murky, but most historians agree that beer was first commercially brewed in Alabama in Huntsville in 1819 by the Badlun Brothers; however, the trend didn’t catch on in the state until the opening of the Birmingham Brewery, founded in IMAGES COURTESY OF COMMON BOND / BY STEPHEN POFF

1884 by German émigré Philipp Schillinger. More breweries followed and business grew largely unimpeded until prohibition.

If you’ve noticed the growing number of odd-sounding beers in

in Alabama opened this way, but regulations on the alcohol content

the grocery store (Monkeynaut or Bearded Lady, anyone?), you are

prevented them from brewing a wide-variety of styles or selling

probably aware of the recent national craft-brewery boom. Many

them in a taproom setting.

small breweries have opened around the country, responding to Americans’ increasingly adventurous tastes in beer. And while beer

Then in 2009, encouraged by Free the Hops, a grassroots organi-

sales overall were down slightly last year, according to the Brewers

zation that sought to repeal Alabama’s harsh beer laws, Governor

Association, craft brew sales grew 5 percent, occupying 12.7 per-

Bob Riley signed the Gourmet Beer Bill, which raised the limit of

cent of the U.S. beer market.

alcohol-by-volume from 6 percent to 13.9 percent. This allowed breweries like Straight to Ale (Huntsville) and Good People (Bir-

Though Alabama has been an enthusiastic participant in this

mingham) to begin dipping their toes into the wonderland of strong

industry for many years now, with more than 30 licensed breweries

stouts, IPAs, pilsners and other high-gravity beers. In subsequent

currently open and many more on the way, it hasn’t always had a

years, the efforts of the Alabama Brewers Guild have helped in the

beer-positive attitude.

passage of more laws, further loosening regulations and allowing for a brewery renaissance all across the state, including right here

In July 1915, the state prohibited the sale of alcohol, beating the

in Montgomery.

rest of the country to the punch by more than three years. And, even after the repeal of nationwide prohibition in 1933, Alabama re-

Coming on the heels of the now-closed Montgomery Brewing

mained dry until 1937. It wasn’t until 1992 that Alabama passed the

Company, Railyard Brewery was opened in September of 2012 by

Brewpub Act, which allowed the brewing of beer. A few breweries

Bob Parker, former GM of Dreamland in Birmingham and current

/ BY KORNEGAY

52 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

IMAGE BY ROBERT FOUTS

Top: Andrew McNally (left) and Tim Doles (right), founders of Common Bond Brewers. Bottom: Jamie Ray (left), brewmaster, and Bob Parker (right), managing partner of Railyard Brewery.

managing partner of Dreamland and Railyard Brewery. In the early 2000s, Parker said, “It was all Bud Light, Miller Light and Coors Light. But at Dreamland, we realized there was a market for craft brews.” Railyard first opened as a brewpub, then the brewery closed and reopened in 2017 as part of the Dreamland restaurant. Parker is proud of his beers, but claims he isn’t primarily focused on brewing beer, viewing it more as “an amenity” to the restaurant experience. “I need to sell food first,” he said. “If we don’t sell food, we don’t operate.” There are two brewery licenses available in Alabama: brewpub and manufacturing brewery. A brewpub brews its own beer, often as part of a functioning restaurant, but cannot can or bottle. A manufacturing brewery often has a taproom and is allowed to bottle and can. Residing in a renovated building on Bibb Street downtown, Common

53 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

IMAGE COURTESY OF RAILYARD

Bond Brewers is Montgomery’s first manufacturing brewery. Founder and brewmaster Andrew McNally explained the brewery’s genesis. — but the same model of Good People or the other manufacturing breweries that had taprooms hadn’t happened here yet,” McNally said. “I kept saying: ‘I can’t wait for someone to do it.’” Then, after being a finalist in a homebrew contest in Birmingham in 2014, McNally decided that he would be that someone. Four years later, on April 14, 2018, he and partner Tim Doles opened Common Bond’s doors. Beyond providing a variety of exciting beers, breweries are economically beneficial to the state. “We bring roughly 400 jobs statewide

Avondale Brewing Co. (Birmingham) Back Forty Beer Co. (Gadsden) Avondale BrewingBrewery Co. (Birmingham) Band of Brothers (Tuscaloosa) Back Forty Co. (Gadsden) Below the Beer Radar (Huntsville) Band of Brothers Brewery (Tuscaloosa) Big Beach Brewing Co. (Gulf Shores) Below the Radar (Huntsville) Black Warrior Brewing Co. (Tuscaloosa) Big Beach Brewing Co. (Gulf Shores) Blue Pants Brewery (Madison) Black Warrior Brewing Co. (Tuscaloosa) Cahaba Brewing Co. (Birmingham) Blue Pants Brewery (Madison) Chattahoochee Brewing Co. (Phenix City) Cahaba Brewing Co. (Birmingham) Cheaha Brewing Co. (Anniston) Chattahoochee Brewing Co. (Phenix City) Common Bond Brewers (Montgomery) Cheaha Brewing Co. (Anniston) Cross-Eyed OwlBrewers Brewing Co. (Decatur) Common Bond (Montgomery) Druid City Brewing Co. (Tuscaloosa) Cross-Eyed Owl Brewing Co. (Decatur) Fairhope (Fairhope) Druid CityBrewing Brewing Co. Co. (Tuscaloosa) Folklore Brewing & Meadery (Dothan) Fairhope Brewing Co. (Fairhope) Ghost Train Brewing (Birmingham) Folklore Brewing & Meadery (Dothan) Goat Island Brewing(Birmingham) Co. (Cullman) Ghost Train Brewing GoodIsland People Brewing (Birmingham) Goat Brewing Co.Co. (Cullman) Good People Brewing Co. (Birmingham)

Green Bus Brewing (Huntsville) Interstellar Ginger Beer and Exploration Bus Brewing (Huntsville) Co.Green (Alabaster) Interstellar GingerCo. Beer(Huntsville) and Exploration Mad Malts Brewing Co.Channel (Alabaster) Main (Guntersville) Mad Malts Brewing Co. (Huntsville) Old Black Bear Brewing Co. (Madison) Main Channel Railyard Brewing(Guntersville) Co. (Montgomery) Old Black Bear Brewing Co. (Madison) Red Clay Brewing Co. (Opelika) Railyard Brewing Co. (Montgomery) Red Hills Brewing Co. (Homewood) Red Clay Brewing Co. (Opelika) Rocket Republic Brewing Co. (Madison) Red Hills Brewing Co. (Homewood) Salty Nut Brewery (Huntsville) Rocket Republic Brewing Co. (Madison) Serda Co. (Mobile) SaltyBrewing Nut Brewery (Huntsville) Singin’ Brewing Co. (Florence) SerdaRiver Brewing Co. (Mobile) Straight Ale (Huntsville) Singin’toRiver Brewing Co. (Florence) Tallulah Brewing Co. (Jasper) Straight to Ale (Huntsville) Trim Tab Brewing Tallulah BrewingCo. Co.(Birmingahm) (Jasper) Twisted Barley Brewing Co. (Jasper) Trim Tab Brewing Co. (Birmingahm) Yellowhammer Twisted BarleyBrewing Brewing(Huntsville) Co. (Jasper) Yellowhammer Brewing (Huntsville)

related directly to the brewing industry,” said Dan Roberts, Executive Director of the Alabama Brewers Guild. “Indirectly, it’s a lot more than that. Craft-brewing is light manufacturing. They’re factories. That means it’s a job multiplier: graphic designers, construction workers,

ticular, McNally is optimistic. “We’re proud of being hyper-local, and

glycol specialists, equipment manufacturers, farmers. By being a

we want people to be proud of that, too. I hope other people open

manufacturing base, it has a much broader impact.”

breweries in Montgomery. It’s the second-most populated city in the state. I look forward to more coming here to continue to change the

However, the benefit to the state goes beyond simple job creation.

beer culture in the city.”

“Everybody’s really focused on jobs,” Roberts said. “For us, the bigger impact we have is in revitalization and creating economic centers.” In

But, he says, it will be a team effort. “When we look at neighboring

other words, breweries often make less-desirable parts of town more

states or the craft beer culture nationally and what it’s done eco-

desirable, encouraging other businesses to open nearby and people

nomically to cities and communities, there are certain laws that help

to buy homes, and raising property values overall.

locally owned business like us that don’t exist in this state,” McNally said. “There’s always legislative growth to be had here. Craft beer is

As for the future of the industry in Alabama, and Montgomery in par-

evolving nationally, and Montgomery is now on that train.”

54 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

ILLUSTRATION BY HEATHER COOPER

“Montgomery had Railyard — they’re a brewpub and do a great job

55 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

GiveBack

A HALLMARK OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION Montgomery’s Landmarks Foundation is celebrating a half-century of existence this

/ by MINNIE LAMBERTH

IMAGES COURTESY OF THE LANDMARKS FOUNDATION.

year, marking decades of hard work protecting and promoting the city’s heritage.

Old Alabama Town draws scores of visitors each year.

In the late 1960s, local businessman James Loeb recognized

The Cleveland Avenue Presbyterian Church, built in 1885 for

the importance of Montgomery’s historic architecture and took

African-American worshipers, was moved here and restored in

steps to preserve this heritage. With the help of Milo How-

1977. The Yancey dogtrot from the 1850s was relocated in 1979

ard, who served then as head of the Alabama Department of Archives and History, and another local business-

as well as Lucas Tavern, Montgomery

A Team Effort

man, Lanny Crane, Loeb established the Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery in 1968. “Landmarks has been involved for 50 years with the preservation of architecture, history and culture of Central Alabama,” said Michael Panhorst, Ph.D., who has served as its executive director since

County’s oldest building. These structures and others that have

We could not do what we do without the financial support of the Montgomery community.

- Michael Panhorst, Landmarks Foundation Executive Director

since been added are part of Old Alabama Town, a living history museum where guests can view two dozen authentically restored and furnished buildings that reflect home life and work life in 19th century Alabama. Visitors to the historic village number around 35,000 a year; many are

December 2017.

fourth graders from around the state traveling to the capital The organization’s most visible efforts are located in a six-

city for annual “Alabama history” field trips.

block area on and around North Hull Street in downtown Montgomery. The work began with the Ordeman-Shaw House,

Another two dozen structures within this neighborhood are

an 1850s house and outbuilding, which was purchased and

used for commercial rentals. Some are owned by the City of

renovated in 1968 in conjunction with the City of Montgomery.

Montgomery and some by Landmarks Foundation, though all

56 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Coming Up Check out these early autumn events at Old Alabama Town

Chamber 60 Minute Coffee September 12 , 8 am – 9 am Landmarks Foundation and the River Region United Way are hosting a coffee for members Left: Shaffer Garden. Right: Shotgun House, circa 1880s.

of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Com-

are managed by Landmarks and provide

North Hull Street.

income for the non-profit organization. (Properties are currently available for rental for businesses or organizations seeking downtown locations.)

Part of the Present

merce in the Ware-Farley-Hood house at 450

HAVE YOUR HAPPENING AMONG HISTORY

Old Alabama Town is also the site of popu-

Renovators Open House September 27, 5:30 - 7 pm This event allows Landmarks members and their guests to peek inside a renovation either completed or underway. It’s a great way to see reuse of property and perhaps encourage others to follow suit.

lar annual events, including Herb Day, the Alabama Book Festival each spring and

Old Alabama Town Revue

TavernFest, which is held each October

October 4, 7 pm

and features craft beer, live music and local food.

Local musicians perform original and covers

There’s more to the Landmarks Foundation

Street and include humorous commentary

than Old Alabama Town, however. The organization conducts other events such as annual house tours that focus on World War II, and they have been involved in the resurgence along Dexter Avenue and other parts of Montgomery. Landmarks has also hosted “Trekking through the Past” walking tours featuring Montgomery historian Mary Ann Neeley. In addition, Renovators Open House, which is held every other month, gives Landmarks Foundation members an opportunity to peek inside a renovation either completed or underway. Landmarks also operates Rescued Relics, an architectural salvage store located on Madison Avenue that is open in the

of music in the Old Church on Columbus

Looking for a truly unique space for your next meeting or event? Consider renting one of Landmarks Foundation’s properties. There are several options to accommodate groups up to 250. Auditorium, capacity: 100 Church, capacity: 80 Grange Hall, capacity: 80 Molton Building, capacity: 50 Ware-Farley-Hood House,

and props for a fun family evening. Free admission.

TavernFest October 5, 5:59 pm Craft beer, music, and great food combine for an exciting evening.

HullaBoo October 30, 4:30 - 7 pm Children and families experience a special evening in Old Alabama Town, with food, fun and games.

capacity: 250 Arbor, capacity: 75 Courtyard, capacity: 200

corporate sponsors for their events. “We could not do what we do without the financial support of the Montgomery community,”

mornings on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Remnants from buildings, such as

A non-profit organization, Landmarks

tubs, sinks, light fixtures, tiles and wooden

Foundation receives the generous support

decorative elements are donated and sold

of Montgomery’s business community in

In some cases, the support is hands-on.

at thrift store prices.

a variety of ways. The organization offers

Sandra Nickel, CEO of The Hat Team Real-

corporate memberships and also features

tors, has served on the Landmarks board for

57 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Panhorst said.

GiveBack several years, including a term as president. “Historic preservation is good business,” Nickel said. When a building is rehabbed, restored or preserved, she said, “That generates more jobs – than new construction.” The process is also environmentally friendly. “When you renovate a building, there’s very little waste because your entire objective is to preserve what’s there,” Nickel said. And revitalizing a building is stabilizing for the neighborhood. Plus, historic tourism is very important to a community like Montgomery. “Tourism generates about 1.5 million a day in Montgomery, of that, 20 percent is related to historic tourism,” Nickel said. “Those people stay here longer, spend more money and go back and tell the Montgomery story.”

GIVEBACK

BRIEFS

Hundreds of Volunteers Build Playground In less than six hours, an empty dirt site was transformed into a state-of-the-art playground at Common Ground Montgomery, a non-profit, community development organization. Since 2006, it has been revitalizing the Washington Park neighborhood. “A playground is something that this community has desperately needed,” said Bryan Kelly, Founder, Common Ground Montgomery. “We are extremely thankful for the support of the more than 300 volunteers who worked hard in the hot June sun to make this dream a reality.” The playground build was made possible by Let’s Play, an initiative by Dr. Pepper Snapple Group to provide the funding, equipment and play spaces to help kids and families make active play a daily priority, and its non-profit partner KaBOOM! They joined forces with Montgomery Coca-Cola Bottling and Walmart as well as volunteers from Maxwell Air

The Chamber wants to share the good news

Force Base and the Alabama State University Football Team for the build. “Working

of businesses doing good. Please send story ideas

to provide a playground for this community has been an excellent character building

to jminiard@montgomerychamber.com.

opportunity,” said Donald Hill-Eley, Alabama State University head football coach.

58 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

GiveBack

RIDING WITH ROWDY

IMAGES COURTESY OF SERQUEST.

Learn more about how Montgomery’s Rowdy Burton is inspiring others with his courage and tenacity.

Due to sacral agenesis, Montgomery native Rowdy Burton lost both his legs at age three. But he’s never let that stop him from

Learn More. #SerquestMBJ

pursuing his dreams. Here, he shares his story of meeting the

Want to know more Rowdy Burton and his Onewheel?

Serquest team and becoming a digital content creator.

Check out #SerquestMBJ on Facebook to watch a short video produced by Serquest, a local organization that helps non-profits

Tell us about meeting the Serquest team. They came to my house one day to talk to me about Dream

with their media and software needs to secure and source resources.

Court. While we were talking, they noticed I had some skateboards, and they started telling me about the Onewheel, an elec-

What is your relationship with Serquest now?

tric self-balancing recreational personal transporter, sometimes

I want to have my own YouTube Channel and tell my story. The

described as a one-wheeled electric skateboard. I’d never heard

Serquest team has brought me on to learn the needed filming

of one before then.

and editing skills to make that a reality. Serquest helps a lot of people. They’re involved in so many projects, working with differ-

What happened the next time you were with them?

ent people and organizations to tell their stories through video,

I met the guys out at Blount Cultural Park where they showed

so I’m learning more than I even thought I would.

me some Onewheels in action, and it was pretty impressive. I tried one out, and I could do it, even though it required a lot of

What’s next for you and your Onewheel?

strength and balance. That first time, I was only on it for a

I’m having a lot of fun riding it! In August, I got to fly out to Santa

moment, and then I crashed, but I got better at it. The guys at

Cruz, California, to meet the team at Future Motion and that was

Serquest shot a video of me on the Onewheel and posted it on

awesome. And I’m loving learning about video production too. I

their Facebook page, and it was really well received.

have more insight and appreciation for what it takes to make it happen.

After it was clear the video was so popular, what was next? Serquest started a fundraiser to get me my own Onewheel. Then,

P OW E R E D B Y

Future Motion, the company that makes Onewheels, shared Serquest’s fundraiser on all of its social media platforms. People ended up donating from all over the world to get me a Onewheel.

59 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

MyMGM

FANNING THE FITZGERALD FLAME A historic Montgomery attraction has added an intriguing new offering to the city’s lodging options while bringing new awareness to a cultural treasure. / by MELISSA JOHNSON WARNKE

The Fitzgerald Museum. Pictured right: Museum Executive Director Sara Powell. (Images by Jonathon Kohn.)

In the last few months, Sara Powell has

people just love the chance to stay in the

fielded interview requests from reporters

home where Scott and Zelda lived. And we

“The biggest thing is to get people coming through the door. People who live in Montgomery always tell me, ‘I see it and drive by all the time, but I’ve never been there.’”- Sara Powell,

as far away as Italy, London, Japan and

are very lucky in the sense that Clover-

India. As the Fitzgerald Museum’s Executive

dale is very marketable,” Powell said. “You

Director, she’s well aware of the worldwide

are a block away from some great, local

allure attached to the Fitzgerald family; it’s

restaurants and coffee shops and one of

nothing new. But the increased attention the

the oldest movie theaters in the state. It’s a

visitors can tour rooms filled with the fami-

museum has garnered this year has been

unique place to be.”

ly’s personal items and other artifacts. Orig-

“overwhelming, yet fabulous,” she said.

The Home’s History

Executive Director

inal pieces of Zelda’s artwork and paper dolls, Scott’s handwritten letters to Zelda,

This past January, the Fitzgerald Museum

The home at 919 Felder Avenue is one

manuscripts of their books and a printing

converted an upstairs apartment into an

of the last four surviving homes of the

of Scott’s meticulous ledger are among the

Airbnb rental. Garden & Gun was the first to

Fitzgeralds and the world’s only museum

many displays.

grab hold of the story, soon followed by the

dedicated to their legacy. Scott, Zelda and

New York Times, National Geographic Trav-

their daughter Scottie lived in the home

Though the Fitzgeralds’ time in the home

el and a host of other national and regional

from October 1931 to April 1932. During

was short, Montgomery owns a significant

publications. “I don’t think we anticipated

that time, Zelda and Scott wrote portions

piece of the family’s story. As Powell tells

the response we were going to get,” said

of their respective novels, “Save Me The

it, the Fitzgeralds’ romance began in 1918

Powell.

Waltz” and “Tender Is The Night,” while in

when Scott first met Zelda Sayre at a Mont-

the house that is now a museum. After they

gomery Country Club dance. Zelda grew up

Not only has it put a spotlight on the Mont-

moved, the home was subdivided into four

in Cottage Hill and attended Sidney Lanier

gomery attraction, it’s also brought in hun-

apartments.

High School. At the time they met, Scott was

dreds more touring visitors than usual. The

stationed at Camp Sheridan in Montgomery,

Airbnb itself has been consistently booked,

Today, the Airbnb space is upstairs, and the

awaiting deployment during World War I.

sometimes two to three months out. “Most

museum is housed on the first floor, where

Their courtship and marriage followed

60 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Top left: Annual Fitzgerald Gala (Image by Thomas Lucas.) Right: Airbnb interior. (Image by Jonathon Kohn.) Bottom: Annual Fitzgerald Gala (Image by Thomas Lucas.)

See what’s new at this old spot:

and several new projects are aimed

• Airbnb room • Fitzgerald-inspired linens • Cocktail garden & more

at engaging more locals. One project is a new cocktail and history garden that will provide a place for outdoor events and gatherings. Local

thefitzgeraldmuseum.org Eagle Scouts helped install four raised flowerbeds and local agriculture-based non-profit E.A.T. South developed the crops

planted. The effort both mimics and promotes the nearby Cloverdale Community Garden, encouraging folks to use and spend time on the property. shortly after, and the two went on to live a glittering and nomadic life-

Powell also hopes to continue growing the Fitzgerald Gala, the

style throughout the United States and abroad, averaging six months

annual fundraising party that evokes the Jazz Age images the Fitzger-

in each place. “They were known for being wild, for throwing great

alds defined. A restoration capital campaign to bring the home more

parties, and for spending absurd amounts of money at a time when

in line with what it looked like when the Fitzgeralds lived there is in

that wasn’t really common,” Powell said. “But there were also a lot of

Powell’s plans as well.

underlying, tragic struggles in their lives, including Scott’s alcoholism In addition, the bedding company Siscovers just unveiled a new F.

and Zelda’s mental illness.”

Scott Fitzgerald luxury bedding line. The company will partner with It was ultimately that illness, and the need to get away from their

the museum to redecorate the Airbnb with Fitzgerald-inspired linens.

excessive lifestyle, that brought the family back to Zelda’s hometown.

“The biggest thing is to get people coming through the door. People

Their time in Montgomery would become the last place Scott, Zelda

who live in Montgomery always tell me, ‘I see it and drive by all the

and Scottie would live together as a family. From there, Zelda would

time, but I’ve never been there.’”

seek treatment in North Carolina, Scott was off to Hollywood and Scottie to boarding school. In the 1970s, Scottie would return to Mont-

As the only employee of the museum, Powell stays busy between

gomery, settling here for the remainder of her life. In fact, some of the

the tours, special events and now, the Airbnb, but she’s proud to play

museum’s current board members were friends of Scottie’s.

a small part in continuing the artistic and literary legacy Scott and Zelda left behind. “Their appeal is timeless; they were some of the

Future Plans

world’s first celebrities. And lucky for us, they documented it well,”

More than half of the museum’s visitors are international travelers,

said Powell.

61 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Small Business Briefcase +

PACK ED WITH TIPS AN D TOOLS TO BEN EFIT YOUR BUSINESS

HOW TO LEVERAGE LINKEDIN Every year, social media’s impact on businesses grows, and the tools and rules for harnessing its power continually change. Internationally known branding expert Paul Copcutt shared how to get the most from the platform most often “linked” to business.

DO IT DAILY:

ACTIONS TO GET NOTICED

There have been a lot of changes on LinkedIn in the past 12-18 months and a lot more to come. Like many social media platforms, a shift in its algorithm means you must put in some effort to get noticed, because if 2 you do nothing, LinkedIn assumes you are not worthy of further exposure. Take these actions steps every day to stay “interesting.”

POST: What were previously called updates are now posts that you add to your news feed. Because not all your network is seeing everything you do anymore, you are not inundating them with content, so even once a day is not too much. Start off slowly by posting something once a week. As you exercise your “posting muscle,” you can go to twice a week and then three times. Always go for quality over quantity, and make content relevant and interesting. Ask a question to stimulate engagement and a conversation.

PROFILE: The second most viewed area of anyone’s profile is, “Who’s viewed your profile?”. Be sure to do more than only check. If the person who looked is a first connection who you have not spoken to in a while, send a quick message and ask how things are. If the person is a second degree connection (i.e. you know someone who knows them), they dropped by for a reason, so visit their profile, and if they are someone you are interested in, reach out to take it further.

PRAISE: The golden measure of activity on LinkedIn is no longer “Views” or “Likes.” What you want from your posts is engagement, the “Comments” and “Shares.” The algorithm measures those as being stimulated by someone who is interesting, and they will preference the next post you make. But you can’t expect anyone to do this on your posts if you’re not doing it for others. Take a minute or two to comment and even share other people’s posts.

MEET THE EXPERT: PAUL COPCUTT, one of the first personal brand experts in North America over a decade ago, is a regular workshop facilitator and speaker inside Fortune 500 organizations including Hershey, General Mills, Enbridge, TD, McKesson, Cap Gemini and Scotiabank and an invited speaker at Professional Associations and Major Conferences. He specializes in leveraging his personal experiences and unique communication skills to inspire professionals and executives who are technically very good at what they do, but who struggle with communicating that effectively. A regular media resource, Copcutt has been featured in Forbes, Elle, Money, Reuters and The Wall Street Journal as well as online and all major Canadian newspapers. His own corporate career started in banking and ended in biotech, two subjects he failed at school. He still listens to early 80’s punk music before he speaks and wears custom Converse. (They’ve never been a client.)

62 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

STOP IT NOW:

STOP WRITING BORING PROFILES: It’s no longer your parents’ resume database. LinkedIn has become a lively and stimulating professional networking platform where people are making personal connections. Be sure that your profile reflects more of who you are than your job title and responsibilities. Do not be hesitant to share more about yourself. That is how you’ll attract more like-minded professionals to your network.

LINKEDIN “DON’TS”

STOP USING SELFIES OR CUT-OFF HEADSHOTS: This is a little contrary to the previous point, but LinkedIn is not Facebook, so the headshot needs to reflect a more business-like approach. Yes, almost all cameras today can produce great images, but your headshot is the most instantly viewed part of your profile, so paying a few dollars to have a professional take it could be the difference between your next promotion or staying stuck where you are.

63 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

STOP AUTOMATED INVITATIONS: Because LinkedIn is becoming more personal, it pays to take the time to ensure your first interactions with a new connection are personalized. When you are reaching out to a new person who you want to connect with, take the time to personalize the invitation explaining why you’re reaching out or pointing out a mutual connection or tie. After all, it’s a person on the other end, not a robot.

CHAMBER NEWS

Connect +

T H E L AT EST H EADLIN ES , UPDATES AN D IN S IDER IN FO FROM YOUR CHAMBER

THE LATEST BUZZ:

Montgomery’s selection to host the F-35

F-35 UPDATE

state, Montgomery and the Alabama Air

continues to be a significant win for the National Guard, bringing millions in military construction dollars and improvements to the 187th Fighter Wing footprint at the airport as well as providing additional opportunities to engage with major players in defense contracting, including Lockheed Martin. It was made possible thanks to the collaboration and leadership of so many in the community and in the Guard, people like Brig. Gen. Randal Efferson, who was recently honored with the 2018 Military Leadership Award from the Association of Defense Communities (ADC). U.S. Rep. Martha Roby (R-Ala.) presented the award to Efferson at a special ceremony in Washington, D.C., during the 2018 Defense Communities National Summit.

Just because the dust from the exciting

Montgomery and had this to say about the

F-35 fighter jet program announcement

F-35 program. Making Dannelly Field a pre-

“Brig. Gen. Efferson has served his country,

has settled, doesn’t mean Montgomery and

ferred basing location for the F-35 means

the State of Alabama and the River Region

all involved are resting on those laurels.

Montgomery and the state of Alabama

with distinction and the utmost profes-

There is much to be done to get ready for

are positioned to benefit for decades to

sionalism. His leadership was especially

the jets’ arrival in fall 2023. According to

come,” she said. “It will lead to high-quality,

instrumental in helping the 187th Fighter

Col. Edward Casey, Vice Commander of

well-paying jobs that will be sustained over

Wing at Dannelly Field secure the coveted

the 187th Fighter Wing, the basing process

the lifetime of the aircraft. And it will result

F-35 mission,” Roby said.

is on time and going well, and military

in hundreds of additional indirect jobs.”

construction funding has climbed to more

Efferson serves as Assistant Adjutant

than $55 million so far. This money will be

Her praise prompted Horace Horn, Chair-

General and Air Component Command-

bid out to local and state contractors over

man Governmental Affairs Council, to make

er for the Alabama Air National Guard,

the next 2-4 years.

these comments. “The high confidence

a promotion he received last December

of companies like Lockheed Martin in our

following his service as Wing Commander

Marillyn Hewson, Chief Executive Officer of

state and region should provide optimism

of the 187th Fighter Wing, where he was

Lockheed Martin, the defense contractor

and anticipation for the many opportunities

instrumental in the effort to bring the F-35

manufacturing the jets, recently visited

we have ahead,” he said.

program to Montgomery.

MORE F-35 NEWS

A full-scale F-35 model, NASA’s Orion spacecraft (also built by Lockheed Martin) and other products across several industries were all on display on the lawn of the White House recently for a Made in America event. In conjunction with the event, Lockheed Martin announced that it has hired more than 1,800 new employees to support the F-35 program, meeting a commitment made to President Trump by CEO Marillyn Hewson in January 2017. The F-35 program is currently ramping up production and sustainment to meet increasing demand. The company is preparing to increase production volume year-over-year to hit a rate of approximately 160 aircraft per year in 2023. In addition to the major positives the jet program is bringing the River Region and the state, it generates an economic impact to the entire United States of more than $31 billion. 64 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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CHAMBER NEWS Member FAQs D ISCOV ER W H AT YO U R C H AMBER CAN DO FOR YOU AN D YOUR BUS IN ESS .

Q: How Can I Enhance My Digital Profile?

OPPORTUNITY ALERT:

TRC Adds Enhanced Online Listings to the Product Lineup CHECK THIS OUT

Don’t miss out on a new product available through this year’s TRC. The Enhanced Package includes all of the basic package features (member name, address and phone number displayed in the online directory search results), your member name hyperlinked to your Member Information

It all starts here, on the MIC.

page, and the web description/text content area where you can include a description of your business, results summary, hours of operation, driving directions and an additional bulleted description. But, the Enhanced Listing allows you to have unlimited charac-

A: Start taking advantage of the Chamber’s Member Information Center, a new, FREE member benefit.

The Member Information Center (MIC) is your one-stop shop for enhancing your profile on montgomerychamber.com and increasing your digital presence online. In just three easy steps, you’ll gain access to the MIC, where you can manage your profile, renew your membership post events and add deals. Here’s how to get started:

1 Request a log-in via an email to skelley@montgomerychamber.com.

Follow the link in the login email to create a username and password.

3 Take control of your company’s

profile. Update information, pay your dues and post events, job opportunities or member deals.

The MIC’s online benefits let you:

• View and edit your company information, which automatically updates the

member listing on your public website.

ters for keywords, and all the web photo and image selections are available, which include a search results icon, logo image, a photo gallery, video and

• Submit jobs and events for approval. • View statistical reports. • Pay your bills. • Post status updates, videos, links and

a map image.

• Use advanced search filters to find

Just secure a unique URL for your

• “Favorite” a member or rep for easier

directory listing page. For less than

• Download vCard information in order

your own custom website and URL set

photos in the Dashboard social feed. other members. access later.

to auto-populate contact lists in Outlook, Google Contacts or other programs.

Enhancing your listing is a great way for smaller businesses with smaller budgets to have a presence online. business and have it directed to your $200 a year, you can literally have up to start driving additional business and revenues.

• Add others to your employee/rep list and invite them to create a login account.

• Update your payment profile (if using automatic recurring ACH or credit card billing).

• Open to the specific MIC page when logging in.

MEET THE MIC STAFF Jina Miniard, Director of Publications Sandra Kelley, Manager of Member Services

66 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

67 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Connect CO NNEC T I NG YO U TO T H E M ANY CHAMBER RES OURCES AN D S ERVICES AVAILABLE

ONLINE M EM BERS HI P D I REC TO RY montgomerychamber.com/directory

R I B B O N C UTTI N G S , G R O UN D B R E A K I N G S A N D G R A N D O PE N I N G S Rhonda Figh, rfigh@montgomerychamber.com

J O B BOA RD montgomerychamber.com/jobboard

PR E SS R E L E AS E S & A N N O UN C E ME N TS Jina Miniard, jminiard@montgomerychamber.com

EV EN T C A L EN DA R montgomerychamber.com/events

S MA L L B US I N E SS R E S O UR C E S webinars, seminars, mentoring, counseling NE T WO RKI N G EVEN TS Sandra Kelley, skelley@montgomerychamber.com HOSTING IN-TOW N M EET I N G S & EVEN TS Keely Smith, ksmith@montgomerychamber.com AMB ASSA D O R P RO G RA M Lynn Norton, lnorton@montgomerychamber.com

MEMB ER TO M EM BER D I S CO U N TS Rhonda Figh, rfigh@montgomerychamber.com

& CO -WO R K I N G A N D O F F I C E S PAC E FO R R E N T Lisa McGinty, lmcginty@montgomerychamber.com

WO R K FO R C E TR A I N I N G Sallie Hines, shines@montgomerychamber.com S E MI N A R S A N D TR A I N I N G Lisa McGinty, lmcginty@montgomerychamber.com

RESEARC H I N FO RM AT I O N Rachel Madore, rmadore@montgomerychamber.com

CO R PO R ATE R E TE N TI O N Jessica Horsley, jhorsley@montgomerychamber.com

MEMB ERSHI P M A I L I N G L I STS & L A BEL S Sandra Kelley, skelley@montgomerychamber.com

CO R PO R ATE R E C R UI TME N T Shelby Stringfellow, sstringfellow@montgomerychamber.com

NOTA RY S ERVI C ES Paul Redhead, predhead@montgomerychamber.com

G OV E R N ME N T CO N TR AC T R E S O UR C E S Lisa McGinty, lmcginty@montgomerychamber.com

“

OUR CHAMBER. YOUR VOICE.

WHAT THEY SAY

Hampton Lawn & Home Services recently joined the Chamber, and owner

CHAMBER MEMBERS

Chamber of Commerce is a widely known organization that has helped small

Mathew Hampton had this to say about the experience so far. “The Montgomery businesses across the River Region reach success. After we became licensed

SPEAK OUT

and insured in February 2018, we saw it only fitting to join a winning team. Since

ON HOW THEIR MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

joining The Chamber, our business has grown, allowing us to serve more with MATHEW HAMPTON AND HIS SON, MATHEW JR.

our specialty services, including painting, yard cutting, tree and shrub trimming, planting sod, lawn fertilization, tree removal, weed control and more.”

THEIR BUSINESS.

68 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Connect A LO O K B AC K AT T H E FACES AN D PLACES OF RECEN T CHAMBER EVEN TS

MEMBER EVENTS:

MILITARY SALUTE, MAY 12 at Riverwalk Stadium

JUN 13

Presenting Sponsor: Guardian Credit Union

60 Minute Coffee at Brantwood

Every year elected officials and the community come together to

Sponsored by BB&T

• Understanding the Basics of the Dark Web

The Chamber partnered with

More than 30 members attend-

• Little Changes, Big Results in Small Business

the U.S. Small Business Admin-

ed the spring orientation event.

• Increase Your Revenue with SEO

istration to bring in Bruce LeVell,

This informal event offers mem-

• Optimizing Your Online Search Listing

the Region 4 Advocate to give

bers an opportunity to connect

• How to Juggle the Different Roles of Owning a Business

area businesses the opportunity

and engage with each other and

• Playing Offense vs. Defense When it Comes to Getting Funding

to share business needs for

several key Chamber staff and

For a complete list of upcoming BRC events and educational opportunities, visit montgomerychamber.com/events

consideration and action at the

give a brief overview of their

federal level.

business, product or service.

69 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

70 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Members on the Move K EEP U P W I T H O U R M EM B ER S W ELCOMIN G N EW HIRES AN D ACCEPTIN G N EW POS ITION S

Faulkner University Names New Chief of Police

River Bank & Trust. Thompson began

Faulkner University recently welcomed Phillip Calvert as the

her career with River Bank & Trust in

new Chief of Police of Faulkner’s Campus Safety & Police

2008 as a Utility Teller and Customer

Department following his service as the

Service Representative. Since then,

university’s interim chief of police since

she has earned a steady stream of

March. Calvert was first employed at

upward promotions from Operations

Faulkner in April 2012 and was promot-

Supervisor to Assistant Vice-Presi-

ed to the BCJ Director and Assistant

dent. Becky Hallman has also been

Professor of the Criminal Justice and

promoted to Vice-President. Hallman

Legal Studies Department in November

joined River Bank & Trust in 2006 as a

the same year. Calvert will no longer di-

Lending Assistant. Since then, she has

rect the BCJ program, but will continue

earned a progression of promotions

to teach courses where appropriate while serving as Chief

from Assistant Vice-President of Cred-

of Police full time.

it Administration to Human Resources Director and Shareholder Relations Director.

New Senior VP of Alabama Power

Karen Thompson

Becky Hallman

Jeff Peoples has been elected senior and Labor Relations for Alabama

Montgomery Eye Physicians Welcomes New Practice Administrator

Power. Peoples most recently served

Montgomery Eye Physicians

as Alabama Power’s vice president of

announced the hiring of Bradley R.

Human Resources and Ethics and vice

Cochrane in June as Practice Admin-

president of Operations Services for

istrator. Cochrane has more than 11

Southern Company. In his expanded

years of experience in the healthcare

role, Peoples will lead Alabama Power’s

industry. With his IT background, Co-

human resources, safety, internal and external labor, and

chrane is most excited about the tech-

ethics and culture organizations. He will continue to serve as

nological advances in the healthcare

vice president of Operations Services for Southern Com-

industry and establishing some of those innovative ideas at

pany with additional responsibilities over power delivery

Montgomery Eye Physicians.

vice president of Employee Services

and safety training. Peoples began his career with Southern Company in 1984 as a chemical technician at Alabama Power’s Plant Miller.

The Montgomery Academy Announces Head of School The Montgomery Academy Board of Trustees recently announced the unanimous confirmation

Butler Snow Names New CFO

of John McWilliams as the new Head

Butler Snow announced that Mandy

of School. McWilliams will be the

Pope has been named the firm’s new

ninth Head of School and, as a 1996

chief financial officer. She will fill the

Montgomery Academy graduate, is

role formerly held by Rance Sapen who

the first alumnus to serve in this role.

was recently promoted to chief oper-

McWilliams received his B.A. degree

ating officer of the firm. Pope brings

in history from Yale University and

more than two decades of executive

a master’s degree from Dartmouth

leadership and management experi-

College. Upon his graduation from Yale, he returned to

ence to the role.

Montgomery Academy to teach in the history department and earned the McLemore Award for Excellence in Teaching.

River Bank & Trust Promotions

He has acted in various capacities at the Academy.

Karen Thompson has been promoted to Vice-President at

71 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

CHAMBER NEWS Members on the Move K EEP U P W I T H O U R M EM B ER S W ELCOMIN G N EW HIRES AN D ACCEPTIN G N EW POS ITION S

Palomar Insurance Expands Team

dent and chief executive officer of Rheem Manufacturing Company with global responsibility for all business operations. In addition, JR Jones has been named executive chairman of the board of Rheem Manufacturing Company. For the

Chris Peel

past 10 years, Peel has served as Evan Strother

Wesley Johnson

Rheem’s president and chief operating officer. Jones will continue to provide guidance for Rheem’s vision and strategy, in addition to his board responsibilities. Jones has served as the president and chief executive officer of Rheem for a decade.

Paul Cobb

JR Jones

Brett Cohrs

Palomar made several announcements in June. Wesley Johnson joined as the company Production Assistant specializing in the trucking, transportation and construction industries where he provides professional assistance to producers/brokers. Evan Strother came on board as an Account Executive, bringing extensive experience working as an underwriter for Auto-Owners insurance prior to joining Palomar. Palomar also named a new Vice President of Employee Benefits, Paul Cobb. Cobb joins Palomar’s growing Employee Benefits practice that offers solutions for a variety of companies and industries of varying sizes. And the company promoted Brett Cohrs to Vice President of Marketing.

Balch & Bingham Welcomes Estate Planning Attorney Balch & Bingham LLP announced the addition of estate planning attorney April D. Wise as a partner in its Montgomery office and member of the Estate Planning & Trusts Practice. Wise brings more than a decade of experience in estate and tax planning, estate and trust administration and litigation, and special needs planning and settlement planning.

Starke Agency Announces New Director of Sales and Marketing Bobby Barnes, a 29-year veteran in the insurance industry, joins the Starke Agency as Director of Sales and Marketing, having most re-

Cheryl Davis

cently worked as Client Advocate/ Account Executive for Willis Towers

Mary Teel

Associated Business Services Hires New Staff

Watson. He has previously worked

Cheryl D. Davis, former chief financial officer of The Enstar

in both local and private agencies,

Group Inc., has joined Associated Business Services. The

including Starke Agency itself, and publicly traded regional and global brokerage companies.

longtime certified public accountant has been with ABS since March. Davis had been retired for about two years after a 29-year career with The Enstar Group, which had its

Rheem Makes Global Leadership Appointments

headquarters in Montgomery, before relocating to Bermuda

Rheem recently announced two key global leadership

Montgomery in 1988, Davis worked for Peat Marwick, which

appointments. Chris Peel has been promoted to presi-

later became KPMG and is one of the big four accounting

in 2007. Before joining The Enstar Group and moving to

72 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Mary Watson

CHAMBER NEWS Members on the Move K EEP U P W I T H O U R M EM B ER S W ELCOMIN G N EW HIRES AN D ACCEPTIN G N EW POS ITION S

firms. She was a senior tax manager. Associated Business Services

planning. Both advise clients on transactional, regulatory and tax

also recently added two bookkeepers to its staff. Mary Teel joined

matters. Eason represents businesses involved in complex litigation.

the firm in March, and Mary Watson, a certified public accountant candidate, was hired in May.

Machen McChesney Announces Promotion Machen McChesney has promoted Scott Barranco, CPA to Senior Accountant. Barranco has been employed with Machen McChesney since 2016. His areas of expertise include accounting and auditing. He specializes in individual and business tax compliance and planning.

John George Archer

Patrick Perry

Morgan Eason

Tony LaMear Joins Hill Hill Carter

Gilpin Givhan Hires Three Attorneys The law firm of Gilpin Givhan, a professional corporation, recently hired three associates. John George Archer and Patrick Perry practice in the firm’s Tax and Corporate and Securities groups, while Morgan Eason practices in the Business Litigation and Tax Controversy group. Archer focuses on tax and business planning; mergers and acquisitions; and securities and regulatory compliance. Perry’s

Hill Hill Carter announced the addition of Tony LaMear as the firm’s Director of Operations and Chief Security Officer. LaMear will be using his vast experience to support HHC’s ongoing dedication to the ever-evolving area of data security.

main areas of focus are tax and business planning and estate

73 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News A Q U IC K LO O K AT O U R M EM B ER S’ MAN Y ACCOMPLIS HMEN TS , AWARDS AN D HON ORS

Community

The Best Master’s Degrees reviewed nearly 100 online colleges and universities that offered online executive MBA programs.

City Named a “Bicycle Friendly Community”

AUM Closer to NCAA Status Auburn University at Montgomery moved another step closer to full NCAA status recently when the Warhawks were approved to advance to the third and final year of the membership process by the NCAA Division II Membership Committee. This past year saw the Warhawks join the GSC as a provisional member, with each team playing a full conference schedule. The Warhawks were not eligible for postseason play in its first year in the conference but 106 AUM student-athletes were named to the GSC Fall, Winter and Spring Academic Honor Rolls. Mayor Todd Strange and MBC President Robert Traphan

If all benchmarks are completed during this next year, AUM will

The League of American Bicyclists awarded Montgomery its

be eligible for NCAA and GSC postseason play during the 2019-

“Spring 2018 Bicycle Friendly Communities (BFC) Honorable

20 academic year.

have completed the process of Division II membership and will

Mention” designation. This marks Montgomery’s second time in three years to be named to the list, a designation shared with only one other Alabama municipality to recognize communi-

Achievements

ties for starting efforts to address the need of bicyclists. These

Beasley Allen Attorney Heading Committee

communities often have popular shared-use paths, communi-

Beasley Allen lawyer Paul Evans was recently selected to serve

ty-wide bicycling events or recent bicycle planning processes.

as Programs Committee Chair for the Hugh Maddox Inn of

“The League’s distinction further affirms Montgomery is on the

Court. The American Inns of Court is a national association of

right path in our planning efforts and policy implementation to

lawyers, judges and other legal professionals from all levels and

increase ridership, add infrastructure and ensure safety for our

backgrounds who share a passion for professional excellence. It

two-wheeled riding residents and visitors,” Montgomery Mayor

is dedicated to building professional relationships, discussing the

Todd Strange said.

legal profession and legal issues and mentoring young lawyers

Faulkner University Named to Military Friendly Schools List

and law students. The Hugh Maddox Inn of Court is a local Montgomery, Alabama, chapter.

Faulkner University has a strong tradition of standing by the na-

Butler Snow Ranked by Top Legal Counsel Review

tion’s military and was again named a 2018-2019 Military Friendly

Butler Snow LLP has been ranked as a Top 10 private bond coun-

School by Victory Media, publisher of G.I. Jobs, STEM Jobs, and

sel firm nationally by the Thomson Reuters Top Bond Counsel

Military Spouse. Faulkner has earned the designation for the last

rankings for their number of privately placed bond transactions

three years and regularly hosts Military Days on campus and

closed in the first quarter of 2018. The firm ranked fifth in the

special Veterans Day events to recognize the nation’s service

category.

men and women. First published in 2009, Military Friendly Schools is the most comprehensive, powerful resource for veter-

Local Advisor Named to Forbes’ Best-in-State List

ans today.

Morgan Stanley recently announced that Paul Winn, a Senior

Faulkner University’s Executive MBA Online Program Recognized

Vice President, Financial Advisor in the firm’s Montgomery Wealth Management office, has been named to Forbes magazine’s inaugural list of America’s Best-in-State Wealth Advisors.

Faulkner University was recently ranked the top university in

The list comprises a select group of individuals who have a

the state and No. 7 in the nation for having the best Executive

minimum of seven years of industry experience. The ranking,

MBA online degree programs by The Best Master’s Degrees.

developed by Forbes’ partner SHOOK Research, is based on an

The ranking considered accreditation and raw affordability when

algorithm of qualitative and quantitative data, rating thousands of

profiling the top 30 best online executive MBA programs of 2018.

wealth advisors through telephone and in-person interviews.

74 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News A Q U IC K LO O K AT O U R M EM B ER S’ MAN Y ACCOMPLIS HMEN TS , AWARDS AN D HON ORS

Chambless King Architects Pass Architects Registration Exam

Trustmark Recognized for Customer Satisfaction Trustmark has been recognized for the highest customer satisfaction score in the South Central Region by the J.D. Power 2018 U.S. Retail

Nick Henninger has recently

Banking Satisfaction Study. J.D. Power is a global leader in consumer

passed the Architects Registration

insights, advisory services, as well as data and analytics. “Trustmark

Exam®. Responsible for residential

is honored to receive this distinguished recognition from our custom-

and commercial design projects,

ers across the South Central Region,” said Trustmark Retail Banking

Henninger has been an employee

President Art Stevens. “It is our aim at Trustmark to build long-term

of Chambless King for five years.

relationships with our customers by first understanding their financial

Henninger received both his Bach-

needs, followed by customizing solutions to meet those needs.”

elor of Architecture and Bachelor of Interior Architecture degrees from

Faulkner University Graduate School Receives Accreditation

Auburn University. Mike Shows also

Kearley Graduate School of Theology of Faulkner University was

passed the Architects Registration

recently accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Asso-

Exam®, and his position at CK has

ciation of Theological Schools, and ATS lauded the program as a

been promoted to Project Architect.

potential model for other graduate schools. The following degree

Responsible for residential and

programs have been approved by the Commission on Accrediting:

commercial design projects, Shows

Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies, Master of Arts (Biblical

has been an employee of Chambless King for five years and received his Bachelor of Architecture from Auburn University.

Studies), and Master of Arts in Christian Ministry. The ATS accreditation is one that is very appealing among those looking for an official position in the ministry field.

75 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News A Q U IC K LO O K AT O U R M EM B ER S’ MAN Y ACCOMPLIS HMEN TS , AWARDS AN D HON ORS

Store Room Fasteners, Inc. Employee Receives Certification

sive award levels through the National Quality Award Program,

Austin Wilsford has completed

al Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), the leading associ-

presented by the American Health Care Association and Nation-

requirements and become a

ation for long-term and post-acute care. “It’s tremendous to be

Certified Fastener Specialist for

honored on a national level for our commitment to care and to

Store Room Fasteners. Wilsford

know that our efforts are helping our residents live better lives,”

has worked in the family business

Administrator Sharon Baker said.

since his teens. He is currently an Outside Sales Representative for Store Room Fasteners covering central and west Alabama. Store Room Fasteners, Inc. was founded in Montgomery in 1984 and now has branch locations in Selma; Opelika; LaGrange, Georgia; and Nuevo Laredo, Mexico.

Local Lawyer Is Alabama Lawyers Association Vice President Beasley Allen lawyer Leon Hampton was selected to serve as the Vice President of the Alabama Lawyers Association (ALA) at the organization’s annual meeting held May 31 – June 1 in Jamaica. Last year, the organization recognized Hampton as the Board Member of the Year. Hampton joins other Beasley Allen lawyers who have helped lead the ALA, including LaBarron Boone, Kendall Dunson, Larry Golston, Navan Ward and Danielle Mason. “I am proud of the work that Alabama Lawyers Association does throughout the community and I’m honored to serve as Vice President during this administration,” Hampton said.

WVAS NPR Station Wins Awards Alabama State University’s campus National Public Radio station, WVAS-FM, recently received two “Best in Broadcasting Awards” (ABBYs) from the Alabama Broadcasters Association. This year’s winners are Marcus Hyles, senior news correspondent, for Best Medium Market Regularly Scheduled Newscast, and Renardo Smith, producer, for Best Medium Market PSA for “Angel Tree

Awards & Honors

Project.”

2018 AMEA President’s Award W. Stanley Gregory, a partner in the Montgomery office of the

The station also recently garnered four awards at the Alabama

Southeast regional law firm of Bradley Arant, was the recipient of

Associated Press Media Editors Awards Banquet. This contin-

the Alabama Municipal Electric Authority (AMEA) 2018 Presi-

ues an almost decade-long tradition of winning several of these

dent’s Award on Thursday, April 19 during the AMEA President’s

prestigious awards each year that are judged by the AP, which is

Awards Dinner in Point Clear, Alabama.

considered at the apex of professional journalism recognition.

The award honors individuals who played a key role in the

Regions Bank Wins Great Workplace Award

formation of AMEA and is presented in recognition of their continued leadership and dedication to the organization. “Due to Stan’s leadership and commitment to public power, AMEA has become a valued partner in Alabama’s electric utility community,”

For the fourth year in a row, Regions Bank has received the 2018 Gallup Great Workplace Award, the organization’s highest honor for engaged workplaces. Gallup clients participating in the Gallup survey process and meeting certain criteria are eligible to

said Fred Clark, AMEA President & CEO.

apply.

Nursing Home Awarded for Quality Care

Regions had to demonstrate how engagement positively influ-

Capitol Hill Healthcare has been recognized as a 2018 recipient

ences associate performance. At the same time, the company

of the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award for its commit-

had to show how employees respond to strategy, leadership,

ment to improving the lives of residents through quality care.

accountability and communication, among other factors. A panel

The facility is one of just nine facilities in Alabama to receive this

of workplace consultants and experts evaluated the applicants

recognition this year. The distinction is the first of three progres-

76 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News A Q U IC K LO O K AT O U R M EM B ER S’ MAN Y ACCOMPLIS HMEN TS , AWARDS AN D HON ORS

resources, said the company believes engaged employees are

ASU’s Small Business Development Center Client is “Alabama Person of the Year”

crucial to Regions’ success. “We are honored that Gallup has rec-

Alabama State University’s Small Business Development Center’s

ognized Regions Bank for the fourth consecutive year among the

(ASU SBDC) client, Charles W. Underwood II, owner of C&R Mov-

top companies globally for our efforts to create a highly engaged

ers, LLC of Montgomery, was honored as the U.S. Small Business

workforce,” Keenan said.

Administration’s (SBA) 2018 “Alabama Person of the Year.” The

to select the winners. Dave Keenan, Regions’ head of human

national SBA Administrator Linda McMahon presented the award to Underwood in Washington, D.C., during National Small Business Week. McMahon acknowledged Underwood for his innovative ideas, dedication to his employees, the effective growth of his company and its positive impact of strengthening Alabama’s economy. “Since 1963, the President has issued a proclamation calling for the celebration of National Small Business Week and because of that the SBA recognizes outstanding small business owners for their personal successes and contributions to our nation,” said McMahon. Montgomery’s C&R Movers was founded in 2014, and it provides nationwide moving and storage services for government and commercial customers. On May 3, Thomas Todt, district director for

Montgomery Building Wins National Award On March 21, the Kress Building on Dexter Avenue was given the ABC Excellence in Construction Award for Best Historical Restoration under $25 million. Community developer Montgomery BUILDS in collaboration with local architects Seay, Seay & Litchfield and contractor Brasfield & Gorrie, transformed the three-story building into a five-story, 110,000-square-foot, mixed-use property

the SBA’s Alabama District, presented Underwood with an award from the SBA Alabama District Office honoring him as the SBA 2018 “Small Business Person of the Year” for the State of Alabama during the ASU’s Better Business Conference.

Fred Clark Jr. Honored

with office space, retail and 26 residential units. The Kress building was originally built in 1898 by owner Samuel L. Kress and rebuilt in 1929 after a fire. In addition to architectural feats needed to bring the building back, Montgomery BUILDS worked alongside the community to ensure that Kress on Dexter encapsulated the deep history of Montgomery. The new tongueand-groove wood flooring on the second level of the building was milled from beams salvaged from demolition of the oldest theatre in the state of Alabama, the 1860 Montgomery Theatre (later called the Webber Theatre). The Webber Theatre is where John Wilkes Booth performed regularly and performed just weeks before assassinating Abraham Lincoln.

public power, Fred D. Clark Jr., President & CEO, Alabama Munici-

During renovation, construction crews also uncovered two oversized slabs of marble engraved with the words “white” and “colored.” These slabs backed Kress’s segregated water fountains. Displayed inside Kress’s Monroe Street entrance, the relics serve as a way of bearing witness to a complex and painful history and were unveiled in a special ceremony in early April.

In recognition of his longstanding commitment and dedication to pal Electric Authority (AMEA), has been presented the W. Wendell Cauley Award by Electric Cities of Alabama (ECA). Jonathan Hand, ECA Executive Director, and Bilee Cauley, the wife of the late Wendell Cauley, presented Clark with the prestigious award during the association’s recent 19th Annual Meeting and Governmental Affairs Conference. Named after longtime legal counsel and friend to ECA and public power, the W. Wendell Cauley Award is given

77 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Members in the News A Q U IC K LO O K AT O U R M EM B ER S’ MAN Y ACCOMPLIS HMEN TS , AWARDS AN D HON ORS

each year to an individual who has contributed significantly to the suc-

to acquire high-quality items for our customers. Considering all of the

cess of ECA and continues to work for the success and advancement

high-quality stores in Alabama, our being selected as the best is a

of public power.

distinct honor. It also challenges all of us at Pickwick Antiques to work

Alabama Power Earns EEI Emergency Assistance Award  The Edison Electric Institute (EEI) recently presented Alabama Power with the EEI “Emergency Assistance Award” for its outstanding power restoration efforts after a windstorm hit Lowell, Massachusetts, in October 2017. The Emergency Assistance Award is given to select EEI member companies to recognize their outstanding response assisting

even harder to get better.” Pickwick Antiques and winners in other categories were announced in Alabama Magazine’s July/August edition after tallying all the votes. It polls its readers annually to determine their favorite people, places and businesses in various categories from all over the state.

other electric companies in power restoration efforts after service has

MAX Named Best In-State

been disrupted by severe weather conditions or other natural events.

MAX was honored to be named the best credit union in the state of

Pickwick Antiques Voted “Best Of Bama” By Alabama Magazine Readers Montgomery’s Pickwick Antiques was recognized as the best antique store in Alabama by Alabama Magazine. Readers of the luxury lifestyle magazine selected Pickwick as part of the “Best of Bama” 2018 awards in the antiques category. “We are blessed to have been selected as the best antique store in Alabama,” said Pickwick Antiques owner Sara Beasley. “Since 1991, we have worked constantly

Alabama for 2018, according to Forbes. Forbes partnered with market research firm Statista, surveying more than 25,000 customers on their relationships with their financial institution, rating the top banks and credit unions in each state. The ratings were based on which financial institutions provided the best customer service, accessibility and financial advice. According to Forbes’ 2018 rankings of America’s Best In-State Credit Unions, MAX Credit Union was ranked No. 1 in Alabama. MAX’s score was 93.64, with the credit union average being a score of 80.

78 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS

BI G NE WS:

American Public Power Association Board of Directors Election Fred D. Clark Jr., President & CEO, Alabama Municipal Electric Authority (AMEA), was re-elected to the American Public Power Association Board of Directors during the Association’s annual Business Meeting on June 19. Clark will represent Region 7, which is the East South Central area of the United States, including Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi and Tennessee.

The Villages of Pike Road Breaks Ground D.R. Horton’s Birmingham Division recently celebrated the groundbreaking of The Vil-

Coosa-Alabama River Improvement Association Celebrates 128 Years

lages of Pike Road, a new luxury residential community. The development is one of the

The 2018 Annual Conference of the Coo-

largest in the region, including more than 800 home sites, as well as exclusive features

sa-Alabama River Improvement Association

like swimming pools, splash pads, walking trails and recreational parks. The first phase is

in May in Montgomery covered issues

scheduled for completion this fall.

pertaining to Alabama’s river systems, highlighting the Alabama-Coosa-Tallapoosa

ASU & Maxwell Air Force Base Form Partnership

ASU to have a seat at table when it comes to grants and other opportuni-

Alabama State University has committed

ties, especially collaborating with other

itself to building partnerships within its

Historically Black Colleges & Universities

community, the metropolitan area and

(HBCUs). “One of the things I really want

beyond to create opportunities for the

to do is to better establish a relationship

community and the University. On July

between the base and Alabama State

16, ASU President Quinton T. Ross Jr. and

University and other Historically Black

Lt. Gen. Anthony Cotton, commander and

Colleges and Universities within the area

president of Air University at Maxwell

because I think there are some opportu-

Air Force Base entered into a Communi-

nities lost,” said Cotton.

basin, but with a special emphasis on infrastructure and economic development. In its 128th year, CARIA is a not-for-profit organization that believes in promoting the multipurpose use of waterways while protecting the ecological health of our river basins: the Alabama, the Coosa and the Tallapoosa. CARIA was founded in 1890 by a group of Gadsden businessmen to promote river traffic between Gadsden and Rome, Georgia, on the Coosa River.

ty-University partnership to continue to expand new programs and initiatives.

Ross said the new alliance with the base is important. “Strong alliances are vital,

“Exposing and continuing to put ASU in

and ASU is clear on the importance of

a positive light not just in the community,

partnering with dedicated community

but throughout the land is the mission,”

leaders such as Gen. Cotton, who share

Ross said. “We want to be an intricate

the university’s objectives to promote the

part of this community, the River Region

preservation and long-term sustainabil-

and throughout the state and the nation.”

ity of HBCUs,” Ross said. “There are so

Cotton, the first three-star African-Amer-

many ways that this partnership can work

ican commander ever to be assigned to

together. The sky is the limit.”

Maxwell’s Air University, said he wants

79 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

New Millbrook Chamber President The Millbrook Chamber of Commerce announced Sarah Little was installed on June 21 as the Millbrook Chamber of Commerce President. She joined the Millbrook Chamber in 2014 and has held the position of chamber Diplomat, served on the Board Of Directors, and was Vice President in 2017.

CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS

Carmichael Imaging Center Acquires New Equipment Baptist Health’s Carmichael Imaging Center at Montgomery Cancer Center

WATE R WOR KS

recently acquired a powerful new 3.0T MRI unit offering higher quality imaging and patient comfort. The state-ofthe-art GE Discovery MR750w 3.0T

City Restores Genetta Stream The City of Montgomery has transformed a polluted stream and concrete culvert with the Genetta Stream Restoration Project. Located near Interstate 65, the stream flowed through a small park, funneling storm runoff to Catoma Creek and then the Alabama River. With the proximity to urban spaces, it wasn’t long before contaminants polluted the stream. A project began in 2010, including support from the NFWF’s Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration Grant Program and Southern Co., to create Fairview Park.

was designed with patients in mind. Baptist Health invested nearly $1.6 million in purchasing and preparing for the new equipment and its innovative technology to increase quality, efficiency and patient comfort. This 3.0T magnet has twice the strength

Chris Conway, public works director for Montgomery, said the park’s location was key to making it a microcosm for environmental education. “This intersection is such a heavily traveled, busy area, and Fairview Avenue is an important street in the city,” Conway said. “When we re-

of most scanners in the River Region and produces more detailed images of patients’ internal anatomy.

flected on the highest and best use of the property as a gateway into Montgomery, we wanted the aesthetic to anchor everything we were trying to do along that corridor.” In addition to walking paths and interpretive signage, the park features a constructed wetland to filter stormwater runoff and help prevent urban pollutants from flowing downstream. “Most

WANT YOUR NEWS IN THE MBJ?

people think of swing sets, seesaws and large greenspaces when they think of parks, but while they are here, they’re learning about what we are doing to make the park function and teaching them not to throw away things that end up in rivers and streams,” Conway said.

Submit information for consideration to Jina Miniard at jminiard@montgomerychamber.com. Please attach press releases

Bell Media Acquires Zeekee Interactive

as a Word document or a PDF

Bell Media, a digital marketing agency with

Scott Bell, CEO of Bell Media, said, “At

clients throughout the Southeast, recently

Bell Media, we’re focused on becoming a

please include high-resolution (at

announced that it has acquired Zeekee

digital marketing leader in the Southeast

least 300 dpi) photos with your press

Interactive, a website design and develop-

region. The acquisition of Zeekee presents

ment firm located in Birmingham. Zeekee

a tremendous opportunity for us to provide

designed and supported over 4,000 web-

a better overall service and experience for

sites during its 15-year tenure. The company

our customers.” This is the second acquisi-

is known for serving multiple industries,

tion for Bell Media, which acquired Carted

primarily in the healthcare, legal, profession-

in March 2018.

al services and the restaurant/bar space. 80 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

(Word documents preferred), and

release if possible.

SUBMISSION DEADLINES: NOVEMBER ISSUE: SEPT. 26 JANUARY ISSUE: NOV. 27

CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS

Alabama farmers and rural property owners who borrow money from Alabama Ag

River Financial Corporation and PSB Bancshares, Inc. Merge

Credit aren’t just borrowers — They own the lending cooperative. That means that

River Financial Corporation and PSB

when the co-op does well, they share in its success. And for Alabama Ag Credit,

Bancshares, Inc. recently announced the

2017 was a very successful year. Alabama Ag Credit recently returned over half of

signing of a definitive agreement under

the association’s profits, a record $8.5 million in patronage, to its borrower-stock-

which River Bank & Trust and Peoples

holders. “We are proud of Alabama Ag Credit’s continued strong financial results

Southern Bank will enter into a strategic

and the opportunity to give back to agriculture and rural Alabama,” said James L.

merger to combine the banking franchis-

Bassett, board chairman. Cash-back payments like this benefit the association’s

es. Upon closing of the transaction, the

borrower-stockholders, their families and their local communities. Since 2006, Ala-

combined bank will exceed one billion in

bama Ag Credit has returned more than $67 million in distributions to its borrowers.

total assets, $660 million in total loans

Benefits to Alabama Ag Credit Borrowers

and $890 million in total deposits with 14

Central Alabama Aging Consortium Golf Classic

locations across Alabama.

The Central Alabama Aging Consortium hosted the 2nd Annual Dementia Friendly

The joint announcement was issued by

Alabama Golf Classic in early March at Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, Legislator

Jimmy Stubbs, Chief Executive Officer of

Course, in Prattville. It raised more than $5,000, with 14 sponsors and a player

River Bank & Trust and Richard Moore,

pool of 44. With continued support of the sponsors and the players, the Demen-

President and Chief Executive Officer of

tia Friendly Alabama Initiative has the opportunity to continue its efforts to foster

Peoples Southern Bank. As a result of the

dementia awareness across the state of Alabama.

merger, Peoples Southern Bank will operate as River Bank & Trust.

82 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS

Alabama Power Names New Board Members Angus Cooper III and Phil Webb were recently elected to the board of directors of Alabama Power. Cooper is president of Cooper/T. Smith Corporation in Mobile. Webb is president of Webb Concrete & Building Materials, Inc., which operates ready mix concrete plants in Oxford, Pell City, Heflin and Roanoke, and building materials locations in Heflin, Oxford, Pell City, Centre and Birmingham. “We are excited and honored to welcome Angus and Phil

Caddell Breaks Ground on National Nuclear Security Administration Headquarters

to our board,” said Alabama Power Chairman, President and CEO Mark

The formal groundbreaking ceremony for the

accommodate 1,200 employees and include

Crosswhite. “Their experience,

massive $174 million NNSA headquarters that

state-of-the-art offices, data centers, a fitness

knowledge and commitment to com-

Caddell will build at Kirtland AFB in Albuquer-

center, secure areas and vault-type areas and

munity will be tremendous assets to

que, New Mexico, took place on July 2. The

rooms. The facility will be one of the most

our company. We appreciate their

three-story, 334,000-square-foot building will

sophisticated of its kind in the world.

willingness to serve.”

N OW O P E N The Learning Tree, Inc. Announces “Growing Independence Behavioral Services”

Alabama’s third location and will occupy

sive application guides, specific service

more than 1,500 square feet.

information, troubleshooting information, and, where applicable, downloadable

The Learning Tree, Inc. announced a new

Launched in 2016, Frutta Bowls gained

Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) docu-

opportunity to access applied behavior

momentum across the country for its fresh

mentation.

analysis services (ABA) in a clinic set-

takes on creating delicious, filling health

ting. “Growing Independence Behavioral

bowls with a base of acai, pitaya or kale.

New Therapy Brings Tranquility

Services will now be available in Anniston,

Frutta Bowls also features oatmeal bowls

In May 2017, Country Cottage introduced a

Birmingham, Montgomery and Mobile loca-

and smoothies, as well as protein balls,

new state-of-the-art Multisensory Therapy

tions,” said Marc Williams, Ph.D., BCBA-D,

kombucha, and grab-and-go items.

Executive Director of The Learning Tree,

Room. The unique room is custom designed to help those

program serving the Montgomery commu-

Hartzell Engine Technologies Completes New Websites

nity.” ABA therapy is available for preschool

Keith Bagley, President of Hartzell Engine

and other forms of

and school-age children with a diagnosis of

Technologies (HET), recently announced

dementia. A sense of

autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

that the company has completed the

tranquility is created

updating and rebranding of its corporate

by stimulating several

website, as well as creating new websites

of the senses in a

Inc. “We are excited about opening our first

Frutta Bowls Comes To Montgomery

living with Alzheimer’s

for all of its five product lines, Aero-

safe and therapeutic

The Shoppes at EastChase announced

Force turbocharger systems, Plane-Power

environment. Benefits of Multisensory

its newest restaurant, Frutta Bowls. The

alternators and voltage regulators, Sky-Tec

Therapy include a stronger connection with

health-focused restaurant featuring acai

starters, Janitrol Aero cabin heating sys-

caregivers, enhanced communication, im-

bowls with seasonal fruits and vegetables

tems and Fuelcraft fuel pumps.

proved mood and increased understanding

will open in late fall. The restaurant will be

The new product sites contain comprehen-

of environment.

83 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Business Buzz CO M MUN ITY + COMMERCE N EWS

Seek Publishing Acquired Taylor Blackwell, President of brands Walker360, Fifth Advertising, Creative Printing and Hudson Ink, added another acquisition to his companies this spring. Blackwell purchased Seek Publishing as a strategic acquisition to work in harmony with his other businesses.

AmeriFirst Announces New Board Member Kyle Kyser, Vice President, Real Estate Agent of Kyser Property Management Co., Inc.,

Seek Publishing began in 1989 to create something that would speak to a person’s

has joined the board of

sense of nostalgia and allow them the chance to look back at how things were the year

directors of AmeriFirst

they were born. The result? A sort of greeting card/gift hybrid (a KardLet) was born.

Bank. Kyser received

Today, Seek’s signature nostalgic cardlet products, Remember When, Pages in Time, and

a business/finance

Yearbook are in 3,500 retail locations throughout the United States and Canada. Black-

degree from Birming-

well said, “Our acquisition of Seek Publishing complements our Walker360 companies

ham-Southern College

perfectly.”

in 1991 before graduating summa cum laude

Walker360’s printing and marketing operation is in the nation’s top 1 percent in revenue

in building science from

for the industry and currently holds offices in Montgomery, Birmingham and Atlanta. Fifth

Auburn University. He is a member of the Com-

Advertising is an award-winning digital agency focused on stories and experiences, and

mittee of 100 & Associated General Contrac-

using them to connect brands with people. Creative Printing helps clients create one-of-

tors of Alabama, and he is the past president

a-kind print projects from small businesses to events and special occasions. Hudson, Ink

of the Montgomery Lions Club and serves on

creates high-performance marketing programs for in-home service contractors through-

the board of directors for YMCA Metro and the

out the country.

Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce.

www.gotscrap.com 334-272-0767 430 Air Base Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36108

Our recycling services include: ✓ Manufacturing Scrap Services ✓ Appliance Recycling ✓ Automobile Recycling ✓ Certified Destruction ✓ Demolition Scrap

84 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

M EM BER Spotlight

SA RECYCLING With a commitment to environmental sustainability, SA Recycling is helping our city and its residents conserve natural resources. WHEN WAS SA RECYCLING FOUNDED? 1973 HOW MANY EMPLOYEES DOES THE COMPANY HAVE AT THE MONTGOMERY LOCATION? We currently employ 12 people at our Montgomery facilities: Adam Phipps, General Manager; Jennifer Dunaway, Office Manager; Taylor Rutland, Zach Luster and Carlos Smith, Scale Operators; Shane Luster, Terry Thrash, David Sanders and Carl Messing, Truck Drivers; Francisco Vasquez and Adrian McWhorter, Equipment Operators; and Gustavo Corona, Torch Cutter. WHAT ARE SA RECYCLING’S PRIMARY PRODUCTS AND SERVICES? SA Recycling is a full-service ferrous and non-ferrous metal recycler and processor. Recognized as an industry leader in metal recycling, we operate more than 70 recycling facilities conveniently located throughout California, Texas, Arizona, Nevada, Georgia, Alabama and Tennessee. WHAT SETS SA RECYCLING APART FROM THE COMPETITION? We recognize the importance of protecting our planet’s natural resources. With the support of our customers, recycling reduces the need for mining, lowers production costs for metal manufacturers and helps deliver quality metal products throughout the world. This is all part of our strategic approach to intelligent resource management and re-use. Our facilities are designed with safety and efficiency in mind for both employees and customers. Our equipment is maintained and updated regularly and our scales are calibrated quarterly. WHAT IS THE COMPANY’S BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY? The mission of SA Recycling is to redefine the scrap metal industry to meet today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities by being the industry leader in safety and environmental compliance, by building lasting customer relationships, by fostering professional growth for our employees, and by sharing our success with the community. ANY RECENT AWARDS? The Montgomery facility was recently awarded the most improved profitable yard in the region for the East Coast.

430 AIR BASE BOULEVARD / 334-272-0767 / SARECYCLING.COM 85 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

86 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Ribbon Cuttings C EL EB R AT ING N EW & EXPAN DED BUS IN ESS ES

COMMON BOND BREWERS, LLC

ABRAKADOODLE ART

424 Bibb Street, Suite #150, Montgomery, AL 36104 334-676-2287 Andrew McNally, President; Tim Doles, Vice President Bars-Specialized

2171 Vaughn Lane, Montgomery, AL 36106 334-265-5758, www.abrakadoodle.com/AL01 Margaret Cornwell, Owner, Attractions-Arts & Culture; Attractions-Children’s Activities

THE SEAFOOD BISTRO

MONTGOMERY REGIONAL AIRPORT

AMERICAN AIRLINES INAUGURAL FLIGHT EVENT – WASHINGTON, DC

1651 Perry Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36106 334-279-7500, www.theseafoodbistro.com Paul Do, Owner; Jessica Do, Owner Restaurants; Restaurants –Seafood

4445 Selma Highway, Montgomery, AL 36108 334-281-5040, www.flymgm.com Tammy Knight Fleming, Montgomery Airport Authority Board Chairman Airline

WALMART SUPERCENTER - ONLINE GROCERY PICKUP

COMMON GROUND MONTGOMERY

6495 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-272-8379, www.walmart.com/store/938 Jamie Lipscomb, Manager Department Stores

1516 Mobile Road, Montgomery, AL 36108 334-593-5803, www.cgmal.org Bryan Kelly, Founder; Justin Hampton, Executive Director Associations/Non-Profit 87 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

CHAMBER NEWS Ribbon Cuttings C EL EB R AT I NG N EW & EXPAN DED BUS IN ESS ES

PREVAIL UNION MGM

COUNTRY COTTAGE OF MONTGOMERY

39 Dexter Avenue, Suite 102, Montgomery, AL 36104 334-593-8816, www.prevailunionmgm.com Phillip Johns, Owner Coffee House & Tea Room

235 Sylvest Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-260-8373, www.cottageassistedliving.com Abby Pope, Admissions Director Nursing Homes/Assisted Living

HOME CARE ASSISTANCE OF MONTGOMERY

NEWTOPIA

7742 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 334-593-3988, www.homecareassistancemontgomery.com Kristy Butler, Owner Home Care Business; Home Health Services

3731 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery, AL 36116 334-669-8722, www.newtopiafunpark.com Jacob Kim, General Manager Attractions-Children’s Activities; Attractions-Entertainment; Attractions-Sports & Recreation; Entertainment & Recreation; Gymnastics

BATH INNOVATIONS OF ALABAMA

VINTAGE CAFÉ

2331 Eastern Boulevard, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-271-2723, www.bathinnovations.com Nick Lindsay, Director of Sales and Marketing Chris Klinner, Marketing & Events Coordinator Bath Remodeling; Construction Services

416 Cloverdale Road, Montgomery, AL 36106 334-356-1944, www.vintagecafemgm.com Jud Blount, President Catering Services; Restaurants; Restaurants-Coffee Shop/Bar

88 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

89 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

CHAMBER NEWS New Members W ELCO ME TO OUR N EWEST MEMBERS

APART M ENTS, R ETIR E M E N T COM MU N IT IES

Serenity Apartments at Bell Oaks Sybil Herod 3160 Bell Oaks Circle Montgomery, AL 36116 334-281-4523 www.serenityapartmentsatbelloaks.com

SEPTEMBER NEW MEMBERS

ASSOCIAT IONS/NO N -P R OF I T

Youth Employment Services Cederick Williams 2525 East South Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36116 334-357-9514

B AKERY, C ATER ING S E RV I C E S

Cakeology Fedelia Crenshaw 6250 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36117 334-647-1262

B AR S-SPEC IALIZED, R E STAURANTS-BAR/GRILL

Goat Haus Biergarten James Weddle 532 Clay Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334-625-9602

CAR PET/UPHOLST E RY C L E A N E R S

DryTech, Inc. David Holley 2225 South Broad Avenue Lanett, AL 36863 334-329-9264

CATER ING SERVIC ES , R E STAURANTS, R ESTAURAN TS -P I Z Z A

Marco’s Pizza-Taylor Road Kathy Jones 3171 Taylor Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334-356-6000 www.marcos.com

FA M ILY S E RV IC E S , CO M M U N I TY S E RV IC E S /AG E N C IE S , ASS O CI AT IO N S /N O N - P R O F IT

Marco’s Pizza-Atlanta Highway Kathy Jones 7020 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36109 334-356-4422 www.marcos.com

Family Sunshine Center Tay Knight 858 South Court Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334-206-2100 www.familysunshine.org

Marco’s Pizza-Perry Hill Kathy Jones 1623 Perry Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36106 334-356-8680 www.marcos.com

F IT N E SS C E N T E R /GYM , F IT N ESS T R A IN IN G , H E A LT H & F IT N E SS, DA N C E

COL L E G ES & U N IV E R S IT IE S

Strayer University Eric Walker 79 Commerce Street, Suite C Montgomery, AL 36104 334-523-3670 www.strayer.edu E M P LOY ME N T AG E N C IE S , E M P LOY M E N T S E RV IC E S

Blue Horizon Staffing Solutions Ron Shuford 41593 Winchester, Suite 200-242 Temecula, CA 92590 334-577-4300 www.bluehorizonstaffing.com Spherion Patrick Hart 4001 Carmichael Road, Suite 310 Montgomery, AL 36106 334-260-0788 www.spherion.com/jobseekers/ our-locations/alabama/montgomery

90 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Z Tribe of Montgomery Danyalle Friday 1751 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36117 334-546-2115 GYM N AST IC S , AT T R AC T IO N S C H IL D R E N ’ S AC T IV IT IE S

NEWTOPIA LLC Jacob Kim 3731 Malcolm Drive Montgomery, AL 36116 334-356-4518 www.newtopiafunpark.com IN FO R M AT IO N T E C H N O LO GY F IR M S

Palo Alto Networks Ben McGucken 5501 Parkside Drive Birmingham, AL 35242 205-960-0599

91 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

CHAMBER NEWS New Members WELCOME TO OUR N EWEST MEMBERS

L E G A L S E RV IC E S AT TO R N E YS

DeWeese & Bae, LLC Richard DeWeese 8191 Seaton Place Montgomery, AL 36116 334-239-7994 www.deweesebae.com M E D IC A L E Q U IP M E N T/ S U P P L IE S

Medical Place Alfred Seawright 350 Industrial Park Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36117 334-241-0807 www.medicalplace.net P H OTO G R A P H E R S

Sydney A. Foster Photo + Design Sydney Foster 1 Court Square, Suite 320 Montgomery, AL 36104 334-781-0029 www.sydneyafoster.com R E A L E STAT E - CO M M E R C IA L / IN V E ST M E N TS , S H O P P IN G MALLS & CENTERS

Capitol Plaza Shopping Center Steven Zimmermann 2234-2288 East South Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36116 972-365-0155 www.greenearthrealty.com

R E S E A R C H & D E V ELOPMEN T, CO N S U LT IN G , ASS O C IAT IO N S /NON -PROFI T, P R O JE C T M A N AG EMEN T

MGMWERX Bill Martin 41 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334-399-5216 www.defensewerx.org R E STAU R A N TS , R E STAU R A N TS - A MERI CAN , R E STAU R A N TS - BA R/ GRI LL, C AT E R IN G S E RV ICES

Wingers Sports Grill Lee Pena 445 Dexter Avenue, Suite 1010 Montgomery, AL 36104 334-593-1951 www.wingersmontgomery.com R E STAU R A N TS , R ESTAUR A N TS - CO F F E E S HOP/ BAR, R E STAU R A N TS - D E LI , CATERIN G S E RV IC E S

Vintage Cafe Jud Blount 416 Cloverdale Road Montgomery, AL 36106 334-356-1944 www.vintagecafemgm.com T U TO R IN G S E RV ICES

Grant Joy Learning Kelley Maltby 7010 Fulton Court Montgomery, AL 36117 334-452-5151 www.grantjoylearning.com

93 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Numbers reflect June 2018 over 2017.

Economic Intel TOURISM

Source: Smith Travel Research Report, City of Montgomery

MGM LODGINGS

TAX COLLECTIO

OV E R $ 1 M

EACH MONTH TH

AL METRO CITY

E LAST 3 MONTH

YTD in occupancy percentage

LODGING TAX

+26%

OVER JUNE 2017

75%

+ 1%

OCCUPANCY RATE

SUPPLY

+ 14%

DEMAND

HOUSING WINGS UP!

New Service from MGM

MGM

SFB

+ 20.9

ORLANDO -SANFORD INTERNATIONAL

MONTGOMERY REGIONAL

MGM

JUNE 2018

MONTGOMERY REGIONAL

TOTAL HOME SALES

$179,681

DCA

AVERAGE SALE PRICE

REAGAN NATIONAL

LABOR FORCE

175,533

167,137

4.8% UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area

SECTORS GOING UP

EMPLOYED

LABOR FORCE

TOTAL HOMES LISTED FOR SALE Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area

EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR

LABOR FORCE CIVILIAN

2,139

FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

+ 2.6%

TRADE, TRANSPORTATION, WAREHOUSING & UTILITIES

+ 1.7%

MINING, LODGING & CONSTRUCTION

+ 1.6%

MANUFACTURING

+ 0.5%

Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area

94 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

MBJ

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Post Office Box 79 Montgomery, AL 36101

96 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL