Montgomery Business Journal - September 2019 by Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL S E P T E M B E R / O C TO B E R 2 0 1 9

MBJ

CELEBRATING WOMEN IN BIZ SMART SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING

MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

MGM GIVES

NONPROFITS MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Photography by Josh Moates / Kim Box Photography

CONTENTS SEPT/OCT 2019

THIS ISSUE: 10

The Big Give: River Region Nonprofits

40 55 58

2019 Total Resource Campaign Seizing Your Seasons Women in Business

44 Powerhouse Q&A: Dong Ryeol Choi 47 Military Profile: Richard Aldridge 48 Member Profiles: Anwar Shahid, David Dennis 72 Small Business Briefcase: Social Media Smarts

CHAMBER NEWS:

08 Events 74 Connect: Chamber News 82 Connect: Past Events 84 Members on the Move 87 Members in the News 92 Business Buzz 99 Ribbon Cuttings 102 New Members 106 Intel

MBJ

THE NUMBER ONE BUSINESS SOURCE FOR MONTGOMERY AND THE RIVER REGION

MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESIDENT Anna B. Buckalew DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS Jina Miniard

exploreMedia PUBLISHER Pam Mashburn

MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Stewart Kornegay

ART DIRECTOR Erika Rowe Tracy

DESIGN Heather Cooper, Shelby Berry Shubird

CONTRIBUTORS

Staybridge Suites Montgomery - Downtown offers the amenities of an extended stay in the heart of Downtown. All suites offer fully-equipped kitchenettes and living spaces that will certainly make you feel at home whether you’re traveling for work of leisure. Conveniently situated at the I-65 and I-85 interchange to allow for easy navigation around the city. Within steps of historic and entertainment district, this location is ready to help all travelers experience the Capital City.

ON SITE AMENITIES: • Complimentary High Speed Wi-Fi • Business Center with on-Site Boardroom • Evening Socials on Mondays-Wednesdays • State-of-the-Art Fitness Center • Complimentary Breakfast Buffet • Guest Laundry Facilities

EDITORIAL Jennifer Stewart Kornegay, Janesse Spencer, Suzanna Wasserman, Donna Conte, Polly Hardegree, Charles Humphrey and Henry Moore PHOTOGRAPHERS Bryan Carter, Nick Drollette, Robert Fouts, Donna Wallace King, Josh Moates, David Robertson Jr. ON THE COVER River Region nonprofit leaders at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Photography by Josh Moates/Kim Box Photography ADVERTISING & COMMUNICATIONS Christina Bennett and Kristina Boddie / exploreMedia / 334-578-7810 Savanna Pruitt and Racheal Lunn 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 2019 exploreMedia and the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MISSION STATEMENT

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

Staybridge Suites Montgomery-Downtown is ready to be your home away from home!

(334) 532-0700

275 Lee St, Montgomery, AL 36104

the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, 41 Commerce Street, Montgomery AL 36104, (334) 834-5200, www.montgomerychamber.com. Periodicals Postage Paid at Montgomery, Alabama, 36119+9998, USPS NO. 025553. Volume 11, Issue 4. POSTMASTER send address changes to Montgomery Business Journal, c/o Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 79, 41 Commerce Street, Montgomery, AL 36101, or email mbj@montgomerychamber.com. The Montgomery Business Journal welcomes story ideas from its readers. Email to: editor@montgomerychamber.com. Subscriptions are a part of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce dues structure. Subscriptions and bulk subscriptions can also be purchased per year at www.montgomerychamber.com/mbjsub.

CHAMBER NEWS

Events +

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

Conversations: Roundtables for Professional Women 11 am-1 pm at Wynlakes Country Club This impactful speaker series is meant to connect, inspire and support women in business through networking, an engaging & informative keynote speaker and facilitated roundtable discussions with outstanding businesswomen from the River Region. The October speaker will be Mayor Todd Strange.

OCT

Grand Presenting Sponsor: Valley Bank

60 Minute Coffees & Business After Hours These popular networking events are the perfect place to exchange business cards and meet potential customers.

9/19 Business After Hours Sponsor & Location: Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Boyd Cooper Parkway

10/2 60 Minute Coffee Sponsor & Location: Montgomery Biscuits at Riverwalk Stadium

Diversity Dialogue 10-11:30 am at the Chamber’s BRC The Chamber’s new Diversity Dialogue series features forums and networking opportunities that harness the power of diversity. The theme for this event will be A Business Case for Diversity: A Fresh Approach to Economic Development.

OCT

Presenting Sponsor: Balch & Bingham LLP

NOV Military Appreciation Week November 10-16 Every year, River Region businesses take part in a public display of support for the military, both active duty and retired. Held in conjunction with Veterans Day, “Freedom Isn’t Free” is a regional media campaign that promotes special offers and discounts for military personnel and families.

Presenting Sponsor: Caddell Construction

10/24 Business After Hours Sponsor & Location: Auburn University Montgomery Taylor Center, Room 230

11/6 60 Minute Coffee Sponsor: Alabama Ag Credit & ALFA; Location: ALFA

11/14 Business After Hours Sponsor & Location: Raymond James

SAVE THE DATE: 147TH ANNUAL MEETING LUNCHEON December 17, 11:30 am-1:30 pm at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel This signature event celebrates the Chamber’s rich 147-year history, the economic development milestones of the year and the installation of the new Chairman, plus it’s the largest and most anticipated business event of the year, with close to 800 community and business leaders attending.

BizTalk MGM:

Upcoming Workshops

BUSINESS Resource Center

Business 101: Start it Up! September 17; October 15; November 19, 8:30-9:30 am at the Chamber’s BRC Small Business Symposium September 26, 12-2 pm at the Chamber’s BRC Hosted By: Woodforest Bank Chamber Launches Brand-New Business Development Programming

DON’T MISS THIS!

Chamber ROI: Maximize Your Investment for a Greater Return September 12, 12-1 pm at the Chamber’s BRC This brand new business development program is targeted to help local businesses increase their netWORTH! The 50-minute training session offers valuable tips and tools and provides in-depth insight into: • Navigating the Chamber • NetWORKING 101 • Key steps to obtaining insider intelligence regarding MGM Chamber activities, sponsorships, added member value/benefits

All Chamber and BRC event details and a registration link are listed on montgomerychamber.com/events.

CHAMBER MEMBER ORIENTATION November 12, 8-9 am at the Chamber’s BRC These networking events are strategically set up to get you plugged in and connected to people and resources within the local business community that can help you increase your brand and

BizTalk MGM - The Official Podcast for Small Business in MGM Every second Tuesday at 6 pm on WVAS 90.7 FM, the Montgomery Chamber and host Tonya Scott Williams talk with business experts on topics that are important to small businesses. Podcast Sponsor: MAX

8 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

grow your business. Sponsored by: exploreMedia

9 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Serving Community Counts

JIMMY HILL River Region United Way

Recognizing the key role that nonprofits play in our city and region gives us warm and fuzzy feelings. But their impressive economic impact also gives off a good vibe.

JESSICA TAYLOR Samaritan Counseling

GHANDI DANIELS The Wellness Coalition

BY JENNIFER KORNEGAY Photography by Josh Moates/Kim Box Photography

10 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

the big give

TIM L. GOTHARD Alabama Wildlife Federation

GARY A. COBBS YMCA Montgomery

DONNA MARIETTA Montgomery Area Council on Aging

SHEREDA FINCH Council on Substance Abuse

BRANDI WILSON Montgomery Rotary Club

11 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Nice to Meet You:

Get to know the names and faces of some of our areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard-working nonprofit organizations.

MICHAEL COLEMAN Hope Inspired Ministries, Inc. WENDY ANZALONE Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama

BETH ZAIONTZ Triumph Services

TONYA FARRINGTON The Salvation Army

A GENEROUS HOST:

Thank you to the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts for allowing us use of their beautiful space and for their warm welcome in hosting these leaders.

12 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

the big give

Alabama Has Heart Each year, Alabamians give more than 14 million hours of volunteer service and donate more than $3 billion to charities. That makes the state the fourth most generous in the country. Source: Alabama Association of Nonprofits

By providing all kinds of aid to those in need of it and by expanding our cultural and arts access, the nonprofit sector makes a significant positive impact on our

JENNIFER ROGERS Junior League of Montgomery

area. Our nonprofits are diverse, addressing health, hunger, housing, education and relationship issues. They deliver vital goods and services. They protect children, animals and the environment. They build bridges and close divides. They seek solutions for the challenges society faces and are advocates for positive change. They uplift us and deepen our awareness by connecting us to music, dance, theatre and visual arts. They collectively transform countless lives for the better, and their reach goes beyond each individual touched; it strengthens the bonds of community we all share to create a more vibrant quality of life. But charitable organizations are also meaningful contributors to the economy with a major financial footprint. According to the Alabama Association of Nonprofits, the sector generates more than $12 billion annually for the state and employs 12.5 percent of Alabamians. This impact DR. REGINA TRAYLOR The Gift of Life Foundation

is spread out among Alabamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cities and communities, meaning nonprofits play key roles in local economies, including that of the River Region, too.

13 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

the big give The nonprofit

NONPROFITS BY THE NUMBERS

sector employs

12.5% of Alabamians. Source: Alabama Association of Nonprofits

MARTIE MCENERNEY Baptist Health Care Foundation

VIC WILSON Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools

ASHLEY M. TARRANT Medical Advocacy & Outreach SUSAN SEGREST Central Alabama Aging Consortium

VANESSA BRANDAU United Cerebral Palsy of Central Alabama

14 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

the big give

Child Protect

CHILDREN’S ADVOCACY CENTER

Mission:

The mission of Child Protect is to provide a forensic interview, advocacy and counseling to children when there have been allegations of abuse.

Background:

Child Protect was incorporated as a 501c3 nonprofit in 1989. Before the establishment of Child Protect in Montgomery, a child abuse victim had to tell their story numerous times to different people, which further traumatized the child. Child Protect has trained staff who are able to question the child in a neutral, childfriendly environment. Since no one agency can meet all of the child’s needs, Child Protect works with a multi-disciplinary team, including the prosecutors, law enforcement, the Department of Human Resources, Mental Health, medical professionals and the military to ensure the child stays the focus. Child Protect also provides follow-up counseling where the child can continue to heal and process through the abuse. The family advocate keeps the family informed throughout the entire judicial process.

Wish List:

Financial donations of any size help Child Protect with the day-to-day operation of serving the children and their families, but in addition, the agency needs: • Gift cards from Amazon, Office Depot, SAM’s, COSTCO, Walmart, Target or VISA/Mastercard • Paper Towels, Toilet Paper and Kleenex • Box Drinks, Water, Individual Snacks • Copy Paper, Garbage Bags

Brag Lines:

In August 2018, Child Protect completed a Capital Campaign for an annex to the 50-year-old building the agency has occupied since 2003. The addition has five offices and a Community Training Room. The annex is named for Jeanne L. Drummond for her generous support of the mission of Child Protect.

Upcoming Events: November 1

The Swingin’ Fore Kids 9th Annual Golf Tournament

April 30, 2020 3rd Annual Barrel of Blues

the big give JOY BLONDHEIM Joy to Life Foundation

DR. MARC WILLIAMS The Learning Tree, Inc.

KARLYN EDMONDS Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama

JANNAH BAILEY Child Protect

CANDI WILLIAMS AARP Alabama

NONPROFITS BY THE NUMBERS

The nonprofit sector generates more than

$12 BILLION annually for the state. Source: Alabama Association of Nonprofits

16 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

the big give

The Gift of Life Mission:

The mission of The Gift of Life Foundation is to improve the health and wellbeing of mothers, babies and families to build stronger communities.

Background:

Since 1988, Gift of Life has been working to decrease infant mortality through programs that empower women and their families to reduce the challenges they face that threaten their health and prevent a healthy birth outcome. Our parent educators, mobile family coaches and registered nurses help first-time and parenting moms and dads develop effective parenting skills and connect them to community resources that help them increase self-sufficiency and success.

Wish List:

• Establish a community diaper bank for families who have an urgent need or to support disaster relief. • Launch a county-wide campaign to increase “breastfeeding friendly” businesses that dedicate space or provide portable breastfeeding pods in support of nursing employees and customers. • Add an additional Infant & Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant to help GOL expand its reach among families and adults who work with infants and young children in various settings, such as childcare and preschool settings as well as homes.

Brag Lines:

• Gift of Life was invited to partner in the implementation of Governor Kay Ivey’s Infant Mortality Reduction Plan. • The Gift of Life was the recipient of more than $4.7 million in grant funding through the U.S. Health and Human Resource Services Agency’s Healthy Start Initiative: Eliminating Disparities in Perinatal Health over the next five years. • GOL’s Parents as Teachers Program has achieved full affiliate status. • GOL has secured grants totaling more than $875,000 in federal funding through the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education’s First Teacher Home Visiting Program to launch a program for expectant and parenting teens in Montgomery and

to expand its Nurse-Family Partnership program in Montgomery, Macon, Russell and Autauga counties, plus its Parents as Teachers program in Crenshaw and Pike counties.

Mission:

Medical Advocacy & Outreach

The mission of MAO is to educate the public about HIV and related illnesses and how to prevent transmission of infection. MAO provides culturally competent education, medical, behavioral health and social services to those living with and affected by HIV and related illnesses. MAO works to ensure that all people in its service area living with HIV and related illnesses can live a healthy

Photo courtesy of Jake Crandall, Montgomery Advertiser.

life filled with dignity and respect.

Background:

MAO was founded in Montgomery, Alabama. Over time, MAO has transformed into the largest specialized organization of its kind in South Alabama, now serving 28 counties. As the pioneer of using telemedicine in direct practice in Alabama, MAO’s full-service locations extend access to those in need by way of 11 technologysupported Alabama e-Health satellite clinics.

Upcoming Events:

Daily Services FREE HIV & HEP C Testing October 10 Fall Behavioral Health Conference

Joy to Life Foundation

Mission: The Joy to Life Foundation has a

simple mission: provide free mammograms and other breast cancer screenings when necessary to medically underserved women in Alabama provide limited grants when needed; build and support breast cancer awareness among all Alabamians; and promote overall health, well-being and education throughout the state.

Brag Lines:

• Since 2001, the Joy to Life Foundation (JTL) has

raised more than $7 million to fight breast cancer and provided more than 100,000 mammograms

in partnership with Alabama Department of Public Health’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (ABCCEDP).

• Before our partnership with ABCCEDP, the program provided approximately 2,000

mammograms per year in the entire state of Alabama. Now, because of our partnership and the

breast cancer awareness programs we provide statewide, the ABCCEDP credits Joy to Life for increasing mammograms to more than 15,000 per year. Many, many women’s lives have been saved because of our partnership.

18 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

AARP Alabama

the big give Mission:

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence of nearly 38 million members and 440,000 members right here in Alabama, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.

Background:

AARP’s remarkable founder, Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, had a passion for education and service that carried her throughout her long career as a teacher and a high school principal. Dr. Andrus had a new and different vision of aging. Since 1958, AARP has been helping all Americans to understand that, in Dr. Andrus’ words, “We don’t get old, we grow old. We mature. If we ever stop growing, then we’ve had it.” Our role as everyday innovators in aging drives our work at all levels. We are all aging, every day. The good news is the way we are aging is changing. Achieving your best life at 50-plus is so much more than simply enjoying good health or financial security. At AARP, we have a host of offerings designed to help you do exactly that.

Lifting the Community:

Our founder once said, “Our community is the place where we can be most effective,” and we couldn’t agree more! Locally, we engage and educate public officials, stakeholders, residents and volunteers to plan for and enact community changes that will improve the lives of older adults and people of all ages.

Upcoming Events:

We strive to continually provide free events right here in our Montgomery community to members and nonmembers, including: • Presentations on Caregiving and Fighting Fraud • Estate Planning Workshops • Art and Cooking Classes • Movies for Grownups • Lunch and Learns on community issues

CONNECT WITH US: aarp.org/AL

See details on Montgomery events at aarp.org/Montgomery

the big give GIVE BACK

IN A BIG WAY

Jackson Thornton celebrates milestones with 100 acts of service

NONPROFITS BY THE NUMBERS

12,264 Number of 501(c) (3) public charities in Alabama

1,062 Number of 501(c)(3) private and public foundations in Alabama Source: independentsector.com

At the beginning of 2019,

Jackson Thornton. “We thought what

certified public accounting and

better way to say thank you than to

consulting firm Jackson Thornton began

donate our time, talents and gifts to

a year of giving back to nonprofits as a

worthy organizations across our service

way to celebrate two major milestones:

areas.” Jackson Thornton’s 200-plus

its 100th birthday and the roll-out of a

person team kicked off the program by

new corporate brand identity and tagline

packing more than 34,000 meals for Rise

across all its entities.

Against Hunger. The firm is evaluating additional large-scale opportunities in its

Jackson Thornton was founded in 1919 in

service areas with many smaller service

Montgomery, which remains the location

projects already completed.

of the firm’s corporate headquarters. Through the years, the firm has

Sheffield elaborated on the power of

expanded into seven offices in three

doing good and why the company

states: Alabama, Tennessee and Kansas.

feels so strongly about being a part of

In honor of its centennial, Jackson

creating a stronger, better Montgomery.

Thornton’s staff decided to embark on a

“It’s important to us that we show our

year-long philanthropic initiative called

appreciation to the communities who

100 Years | 100 Acts of Service in each of

have been so good to us through our

the communities it serves.

100 years. Giving back – both with our time and financial resources – has

“As we begin our second century, we

always been a priority for Jackson

wanted a way to show our appreciation

Thornton,” he said. “We believe it’s part

to the communities who have been so

of our corporate responsibility but, even

welcoming of us,” said Ned Sheffield,

more importantly, it’s just the right thing

President and Managing Principal of

for us to do.”

20 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Council on Substance Abuse

the big give Mission:

Reduce the incidence and prevalence of the disease of alcoholism, other drug addiction diseases and related problems. We encourage people to begin the journey with us. Help is here with no judgement. Our core services include: community-based outreach and awareness events; education and alternative activities; environmental activities; and information dissemination.

Background:

The Council on Substance Abuse (COSA) is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1973 to promote the understanding that alcoholism and other drug dependence are preventable and treatable diseases. COSA is the state affiliate of the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependency (NCADD) and a member of the Community Anti-Drug Coalition of America (CADCA).

Wish List:

• COSA relies on various federal, state and local grants. However, in today’s economy, both cash and in-kind support from individuals in the community is vital to our continued success and allows us to provide free prevention and recovery support programs and services to youth and families. • Cash donations. These monies support the costs of uninsured medications, transportation, clothing, registration fees, etc. for program participants. • Items for our Recovery Community Center (things like coffee, sugar, toiletries and cleaning products, arts and crafts supplies, etc.)

Brag Lines

* COSA-NCADD is the largest prevention provider in the region, serving Montgomery, Autauga, Elmore, Lowndes, Dallas, Perry and Wilcox counties. • COSA-NCADD was the first organization to implement peer-to-peer support services in the region. • COSA-NCADD opened the HOPE Recovery Community Center in 2018 for individuals with alcohol and substance abuse issues.

Upcoming events

Recovery Month, September

Central Alabama Aging

Mission:

Our mission is to develop, coordinate and support services in the communities in our service area that promote an active and independent lifestyle where those we serve can live and thrive.

Brag Lines:

Over eight months in 2018 and 2019, CAAC: • Provided 56,994 meals to 904 people in its 19 senior centers • Provided 100,386 meals to 856 home-bound elderly • Provided case management to 471 elderly and disabled individuals through its Elderly and Disabled Waiver Program • Provided Medicare counseling to 1,945 Medicare beneficiaries

Upcoming Events:

October 15 through December 7, 2019 Medicare Open Enrollment events

The Salvation Army

Mission:

The Salvation Army exists to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Brag Lines: 2018 Stats

• Number of Persons Housed - 1,376 persons • Total Lodgings - 19,415 nights • Meals Served - 74,882 meals • Vouchers (includes food, clothing, furniture, & hygiene kits) - 6,000 filled • Volunteers - 3,700 persons • Volunteer Hours - 13,000 hours served

Upcoming Events:

September 11 First Responders’ Luncheon November/December

Annual Angel Tree & Kettle Donation Drive

22 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

the big give

Montgomery Rotary Club Mission:

Montgomery Rotary Club is part of a global organization, Rotary International, allowing this longstanding civic club to work alongside more than a million Rotarians worldwide to promote the organization’s motto of Service Above Self. Globally, the club supports the commitment to eradicate polio and the ongoing effort to provide access to clean water for the world’s most impoverished communities. Locally, the club is best known for its long history of direct service to organizations like the Montgomery Area Food Bank and Meals on Wheels, providing dictionaries to area elementary students and for programs that support Maxwell Air Force Base and Air War College. Each year, the club selects a recipient for its annual gift of $12,000 or more.

Background:

Founded in 1913, Montgomery Rotary Club is one of Montgomery’s oldest civic organizations and one of the first 100 in the world. With more than a century of public service to its world and its community, Montgomery Rotary Club has built a reputation as a trusted partner in meeting needs and promoting peace and cooperation. The club’s current roster includes a number of public servants and community leaders, joining together to meet needs at a global and community level. The club meets 40 Mondays each year for lunch, where attendees hear from dynamic speakers on timely topics.

Wish List:

• Partnerships for direct service • Donations to our tax-deductible Montgomery Rotary Foundation • Potential members with a heart for service

Brag Lines:

• In 2015, Montgomery Rotary Club launched the Service Above Self Award to recognize the service commitment of a member of Alabama’s High School AllStar Football Team. In 2018, the club named the award for the late John “Bubba” Trotman, a longtime member and past club president. • In 2018, the club was a leading force behind the installation of a downtown dog park, reviving “Rotary Park” and proving a welcome leisure spot for pet owners in the growing downtown area.

Upcoming Events:

September 19 Rotary International Night

Mission:

Samaritan Counseling

To provide faith-informed mental health services, educational programming and professional counseling to all in need in the River Region through a wellness-oriented philosophy emphasizing mind, body and spirit.

Background:

Starting in 1997, SCC formed a place to serve thousands of individuals and families of all economic backgrounds in the River Region. As a faith-informed counseling center and nationally accredited by the Solihten Institute, we help those struggling with mental health issues, marriage and family conflicts, addictions, traumas or broken relationships. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re hurting and need someone to talk to, we want you to know that hope and healing are open to you.

Upcoming Events:

October 21 River Region Ethics in Business Awards Dinner

Mission: The mission of The

Learning Tree is to provide a warm and loving environment with individualized,

Mission: Girl Scouting builds

empirically validated services and supports to

girls of courage, confidence and

persons with significant educational, medical and behavioral

character who make the world a better place.

challenges. At our Growing Independence Behavioral Services clinics, we offer Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) assessments and

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama 800-239-6636 girlscoutssa.org

treatment for preschool and school-aged children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) conducted by licensed behavior analysts.

The Learning Tree, Inc. 334-425-6418 growingindependence@learning-tree.org

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Baptist Health Care Foundation

the big give Mission:

The Baptist Health Care Foundation develops resources that support Baptist Health’s ministry in providing the best quality healthcare services and programs to the people of central Alabama.

Background:

Your health. It’s personal because it’s yours alone. And at Baptist Health, we view your health as the reason we exist. It’s the focus of each of our 4,900 team members. It’s the reason our professionals awake each day thinking about serving you. It’s the reason our physicians train for years around the country and internationally to ensure we offer the highest expertise in medical care. And the reason we invest in state-of-the-art technology to deliver comprehensive, quality services. We love what we do, because caring for you and your family is important to us. And when you enter a Baptist Health facility, please remember YOUR HEALTH IS OUR MISSION. Since 1972, the Baptist Health Care Foundation has been the recipient of gifts that have assisted Baptist Health in providing comprehensive healthcare for the citizens of central Alabama. Gifts received have also touched lives in other meaningful ways, including scholarships, hospice care, employee emergency benevolence and more.

Our Impact:

• Last year, 20 higher education scholarships were awarded to nursing and medical students totaling $76,000. • Our NICU Fund helps Baptist Health maintain Neonatal Intensive Care Units at Baptist Medical Center East and Baptist Medical Center South. • Our Baptist Hospice Fund provides needed financial assistance to indigent and/or uninsured Hospice patients each year. • The 2018 Team Member Giving Campaign broke a record raising over $160,000 with nearly 750 participants. The Baptist Health Care Foundation provided nearly $33,000 to our own team members in recent months through the Team Member Emergency Assistance Fund.

Ways to Give: • Online Giving

• Memorial/Tribute Gifts

• Appreciated Securities/ Gifts of Stock

• Honoring Caregivers

• Planned & Estate Gifts

• Sponsoring an Event

• Volunteering

Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind Montgomery Regional Center

Mission: To provide comprehensive

education and service programs of superior quality to children and adults who are deaf, blind, deafblind and multi-disabled and their families.

Background: The AIDB Montgomery

Regional Center is part of a statewide network of regional centers that provide early intervention to infants, toddlers and their families; services to school-age children in local public schools; and adult services that range from assistive technology and transportation to independent living training, Braille instruction and sign language classes. AIDB Regional Centers are places where miracles happen, where students and clients reach well beyond their expectations, and places where “What if?” becomes “I can.”

Upcoming Events:

American Sign Language Classes and educational programs are scheduled throughout the year. Visit AIDB.org for more information.

The Wellness Coalition

Mission:

The Wellness Coalition provides no-cost coaching, education and other services for River Region residents to manage and prevent chronic diseases including diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, hypertension, obesity and more.

Wish List:

Monetary donations are our biggest need to help us continue our work and meet our goals.

Brag Lines:

In our 2017-18 fiscal year, we: • Established the River Region’s first CDCrecognized Diabetes Prevention Program called Change Your Lifestyle. Change Your Life. • Assisted 1,967 people in finding community resources, health insurance and chronic disease self-management education. • Provided 3,185 individual education sessions to

teach people how to manage chronic diseases. • Assisted more than 720 medically uninsured patients in local emergency departments to access a medical home and to decrease their use of the ED for primary care. 26 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

River Region United Way

the big give Mission:

The River Region United Way advances the common good by uniting volunteers, donors and community partners to improve the quality of life in the River Region. We surround a community’s most critical problems, and we fight. Together, we fight for the health, education, financial stability and basic needs of every person in every community we serve.

Background: For 96 years, United Way

has been helping people and strengthening

communities right here in our River Region. We believe everyone deserves the opportunities to have a good life: a quality education that leads to a stable job, enough income to support a family through retirement, and good health. With the help of hundreds of volunteers, United Way identifies and assesses community needs and raises funds to support the programs that address those needs. Our accountability process ensures that every dollar invested in agency programs is used efficiently and effectively for maximum benefit to our community.

Our Impact: Across Autauga, Elmore,

Lowndes, Macon and Montgomery counties, it takes all of us to LIVE UNITED. It takes hundreds of volunteers and more than 10,000 donors. Through our support of more than 80 programs operated by our network of more than 40 affiliate agencies, United Way directly impacts the lives of nearly 130,000 people in our communities every year. Together, we are “Making Life Better for Everyone.”

Upcoming Events: September 12 Annual Meeting & 2019 Campaign Kickoff September 17 River Region United Way Telethon with WSFA-12

This ad generously sponsored

by Russell Construction of Alabama, Inc.

Montgomery Area Council on Aging

Mission:

The Montgomery Area Council on Aging (MACOA) assists senior citizens by providing services to promote independent living, by offering opportunities to enhance quality of life and by increasing community awareness of senior issues.

Wish List:

An IT upgrade, as our computers have passed their serviceable life. • $11,700 (18 computers at $650 each) • $1,800 (18 new 20” monitors at $100 each) • $638 (22 new licenses for Microsoft Office Standard) • $4,050 (Set-up cost for each computer at $225) TOTAL: $18,188

Upcoming Events:

October 8, 2019 Seniors of Achievement November 10, 2019 International Tasting

Triumph Services

Mission:

Our mission is twofold: to assist individuals in their efforts to live independently and to educate the public on the gifts and strengths of people who have developmental disabilities. Triumph Services’ holistic approach supports teens and adults through independent living skills training in the home and community, employment training and coaching through a community employer, social skills training and community integration, therapy services, and support transitioning out of high school.

Background:

When Triumph began in Birmingham in August 2007, we served 16 individuals. After serving hundreds more, Triumph expanded services to Montgomery in 2016. Triumph has now served countless individuals through 9 counties since opening. Though we work with all developmental disabilities, about 70 percent of our participants are on the Autism Spectrum. With

the number of individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum disorders growing at an epidemic rate (1 in 59 births), the need for the services throughout the state is continuing to grow.

28 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Jackson Hospital Foundation

Mission:

For more than four decades, the Jackson Hospital Foundation has channeled support from residents, businesses and industries to fund expansion, improvements, programs and scholarships at Jackson Hospital. These charitable funds directly benefit the River Region’s patient population as well as the staff and visitors of Jackson Hospital to ensure the latest technology, highest trained medical professionals and consistently comfortable facilities are on hand. Philanthropic dollars have helped fund numerous projects at the hospital, and current fundraising efforts will focus on additions to CVICU, which will enhance Jackson’s cardiovascular offerings.

Wish List: Join our Corporate Partners in Health program! This program provides several benefits to

businesses while simultaneously aiding the hospital.

Upcoming Events:

September 21 5K Mustache Run November 1 Blasting Through P.A.D. Clay Shoot Spring 2020 Spring Fling August 28, 2020 Swinging Fore Healthcare Event

Hope Inspired Ministries

Mission:

Hope Inspired Ministries serves low-skilled, poorly educated and chronically unemployed men and women by preparing them to obtain and maintain employment. We do so in a manner that develops individual worth, encourages personal responsibility and promotes the value and honor of work. We introduce a way of life that promotes the development of the emotional, physical and spiritual maturity in each student.

Wish List:

• Volunteers to serve as mentors • Volunteers to serve as lunch providers • Donations

Upcoming Events:

Orientation for students is held every Wednesday at 11 am at our location. Open House October 8th 5:00-6:30 p.m

145 Coliseum Boulevard, Montgomery

29 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Seth Communities

Mission:

Seth Communities is a program designed to build a better future for small businesses and youth by ensuring that every child has the academic knowledge needed to improve learning and by providing the social skills needed to prepare for college and the job market. Strong partnerships and honest communication help us support continuous improvements in business and education to achieve success.

Brag Lines:

• Great Success with our Network Directory for Small Business

• Summer Youth Mission Successful • Jr. Golf at Lagoon Park and Tutoring at Canterbury Technical Academy

Upcoming Event: December

Small Business Dinner at the Capital City Club

Faith Radio

Mission:

Faith Radio’s mission is to serve the Christian community and strengthen the local church and family unit as we provide spiritual encouragement and a personal challenge with a Christ-centered focus through Biblical teaching, relevant information and uplifting music to the Glory of God.

Wish List:

• Financial gifts to support our commercial-free broadcasts • Special gifts in memory or honor of someone special • Donation of an old vehicle you no longer need

Brag Lines:

We often hear testimonials like: “Listening to Faith Radio is like being at a Christian concert all day, with a great mix of Christian music

and Bible teaching programs that help me grow spiritually and closer to God.” “Faith Radio helps me know I am not alone when I feel lonely.”

30 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama

the big give Mission:

The Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama steps in post-diagnosis and assists cancer patients in the River Region and surrounding counties with transportation to and from their chemotherapy and radiation treatments. The Cancer Wellness Foundation also provides a patient advocate who helps our patients navigate through the paperwork and assists them in finding grants and co-pay assistance to ease the financial burden of their diagnosis. Our help is local, and the monies donated to our foundation stay local. We are dedicated to assisting patients undergoing treatment right here in the River Region. All monies donated go to help local patients who are our neighbors and our friends. We have all been touched by cancer, whether we are a survivor, we love a survivor or have lost a loved one to this dreadful disease. The staff of the CWF provides a “safe place” for our patients to come and seek the help they need. Through the genuine and compassionate care provided by our staff, Front Row, left to right: Jennifer Conner, DNP and Board President, David Barranco, Janet Roberts, Board Secretary, Kimberly Jennings, Virginia Whitfield, Amy Strickland, Sha Embree, Tom Broughton. Second Row, left to right: Dr. Alex Whitley, Carol Golsan, Board VP, Clynt Hart, Board Treasurer, Jeff Key and K-Rob Thomas Not pictured: Angela Allen, Brandy Brown, Dr. Steve Davidson, Jamie Johnston, April Mosley Jones, Margaret Nekic, Tommy Patterson, Kellie Rhyne, Dr. Holly Smith Roth, Jill Ellis Tatum

patients are able to concentrate on getting better rather than on the financial stress of their treatment. If you are considering donating to fight against cancer, consider a local donation to a local organization, the Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama. Together, we are “Giving Help and Giving Hope.”

Brag Lines:

• The Cancer Wellness Foundation has been helping local cancer patients for over 20 years. • We assist more than 1,000 patients every year with transportation and medication while undergoing treatment for cancer. • Our foundation connected patients with medication valued at more than $11 million last year alone. We are pleased to partner with local schools and businesses in providing all of the services and advocacy our patients need. • The Cancer Wellness Foundation is proud to have a dedicated Board of Directors committed to assisting us serve our patients.

Upcoming Event:

October 17 Casino Night and Drawdown This fun event features tables and dealers for blackjack and other card games as well as a

craps table, roulette wheel and even slot machines, plus a drawdown for a chance to win $10,000 and a mystery auction.

Get connected with nonprofit Chamber members.

NONPROFITS IN THE RIVER REGION

A+ Education Partnership aplusala.org

Arc of Alabama, Inc. arcofal.org

Disabled American Veterans dav.org

A-KEEP (Alabama-Korea Education and Economic Partnership) akeep.org

Arthritis Foundation arthritis.org

DISMAS Charities, Inc. dismas.com

Brantwood Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Home brantwoodchildrenshome.org

Easterseals Central Alabama eastersealscentralalabama.org

Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama cancerwellnessfoundation.org

Family Guidance Center of Alabama familyguidancecenter.org

AGAPE agapeforchildren.org Alabama Center for Dispute Resolution, Inc. alabamaadr.org Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence acadv.org Alabama Institute for Deaf & Blind aidb.org

Alabama Technology Foundation alabamatechnologyfoundation.org

Alabama Wildlife Federation, Inc. alabamawildlife.org Amazing Grace Health Ministries, Inc. amazinggracehm.org American Cancer Society cancer.org American Legion americanlegionalabama.org American Red Cross of Central Alabama redcross.org

Central Alabama Aging Consortium centralalabamaaging.org Central Alabama Crime Stoppers, Inc. 215stop.com

Alabama Kidney Foundation, Montgomery Chapter alkidney.org

Alabama Technology Network atn.org

Catholic Social Services of Montgomery cssalabama.org

Child Evangelism Fellowship of Central Alabama cefcentralalabama.org Child Protect, Inc. childprotect.org Common Ground Montgomery cgmlife.org COSA Hope Recovery Community Center cosancadd.org Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools clasleaders.org

Family Sunshine Center familysunshine.org Father Purcell Memorial Exceptional Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center fatherpurcell.org Friendship Mission, Inc. friendshipmission.org Gathering of Eagles Foundation goefoundation.org Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama, Inc. girlscoutssa.org Glenwood Montgomery glenwood.org/montgomery/ Goodwill Industries of Alabama; Goodwill Industries Store & Donation Center algoodwill.org Health Services, Inc. healthservicesinc.org Hope Inspired Ministries, Inc. hopeinspiredministries.org

Council on Substance Abuse cosancadd.org

Joy To Life Foundation joytolife.org

Dexter Avenue King Memorial Legacy Center dexterkingmemorial.org

Landmarks Foundation Old Alabama Town oldalabamatown.com

32 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools

the big give Mission:

The mission of the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools is to coordinate and facilitate the resources of all members for the advancement of public education. Consistently, CLAS members choose quality professional learning as the most important function of the umbrella organization.

Wish List:

Join our Corporate Partnership program to gain valuable access to the education community through events, networking opportunities, and specially designed sponsorship programs.

Brag Lines:

• CLAS is the only Alabama association founded by administrators for administrators. • We provide professional learning, legal services, communications, advocacy, networking and rewards/recognition programs for more than 3,800 members statewide. • CLAS is the premier professional organization for school leaders in Alabama. • With 11 affiliates, CLAS offers a professional organization for every type of school administrator.

Upcoming Events: Beginning September 5 CLAS Lunch & Learn Webinar Series Beginning September 10 CLAS Leadership Institute Series September 17-18 CLAS New Principals Institute December 3-4 CLAS Secretaries Conference January 25 or February 25 CLAS Aspiring Administrators Conference January 29-30, February 11-12,

or February 26-27 CLAS Assistant Principals Conference February 6 and March 3 CLAS Culture Training

March 4 CLAS Law Conference June 14-17 CLAS Convention

The Learning Tree, Inc. learning-tree.org Liberty Learning Foundation libertyslegacy.com LifeSouth Community Blood Centers lifesouth.org Medical Advocacy & Outreach maoi.org

Mission: Kiwanis empowers

communities to improve the world by making lasting differences in the lives of children.

Kiwanis Club of Montgomery 334-260-7996 montgomerykiwanis.org

Mercy House mercyhousemgm.org Montgomery Area Council on Aging, Inc. macoa.org Montgomery Area Food Bank montgomeryareafoodbank.org Montgomery Community Action Agency mcaccdcinc.org Montgomery Education Foundation montgomeryed.org Montgomery Humane Society montgomeryhumane.com Montgomery Pride United montgomeryprideunited.org Montgomery Rotary Club montgomeryrotaryclub.com Muscular Dystrophy Association, Inc. mdausa.org NAMI Alabama NAMIAlabama.org

Mission: The Alabama Wildlife

Federation was established by sportsmen in 1935 and is the oldest and largest nonprofit conservation organization in Alabama. The organization promotes HANDS-ON conservation education and wise use of our wildlife and natural resources, ensuring a high quality of life for future generations of Alabamians. AWF headquarters is located at Lanark in Millbrook, Alabama, and has five distinct destinations: AWF Headquarters, Historic Lanark, Lanark Pavilion, the Alabama Nature Center and the NaturePlex.

Alabama Wildlife Federation 334-285-4550

alabamawildlife.org

National Federation of the Blind Montgomery Chapter nfbal.org Pens Up Guns Down pensupgunsdown.org Renascence, Inc. halfway-home.net River Region United Way riverregionunitedway.org Salvation Army salvationarmy.org

Salvation Army Thrift Store salvationarmy.org Samaritan Counseling Center, Inc. tsccenter.org The Second Chance Foundation 2ndchanceal.com Serquest serquest.com Service Dogs Alabama ServiceDogsAlabama.org Seth Communities 334-544-2464 Shepherds Ministries, Inc. 352-257-3691 Starting Point, Inc. 205-294-5772 That’s My Child thatsmychildmgm.org

Mission: The primary mission of

United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile and Central Alabama is to promote the

independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. We achieve this mission through programs including Early Intervention, Supported Employment and Childcare Enhancement With a Purpose (CCEP).

United Cerebral Palsy of Central Alabama 334-271-2280 ucpmobile.org

Triumph Services, Inc. triumphservices.org Tukabatchee Area Council/Boy Scouts of America, Inc. tukabatcheebsa.org United Cerebral Palsy of Central Alabama ucpcentralalabama.org United Methodist Children’s Home umch.net VOICES for Alabama’s Children alavoices.org The Wellness Coalition thewellnesscoalition.org Y.E.S., Inc. youthempservices.org YMCA of Greater Montgomery ymcamontgomery.org

Mission: Service Dogs Alabama is

a nonprofit organization serving children, active adults and veterans with disabilities in Alabama. They also train Facility Intervention Dogs, Courtroom Dogs and Military Transitional Assistance (MTA) Dogs. Service Dogs Alabama is on the cutting edge of training dogs to solve today’s most prevalent issues, including the PTSD and acute anxiety epidemic.

Service Dogs Alabama 334-676-3733 servicedogsalabama.org

36 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

M EM BER Spotlight

RJ YOUNG RJ Young came to Montgomery in 2017, but the company has been in business for more than 60 years. Through the decades, it remains committed to delivering customer-centered business solutions and living up to its corporate tagline: “Your productivity is our mission.”

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN THE RIVER REGION: 15 WHAT ARE RJ YOUNG’S PRIMARY PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES? RJ Young is an IT services and office solutions company that provides managed IT services, managed print services, process automation, document management, office equipment, interactive whiteboards, wide format equipment, remote monitoring, outsourced printing, promotional products, apparel and more. WHAT SETS RJ YOUNG APART? Customer satisfaction, community involvement and our people are at the center of RJ Young’s business. Every product and service RJ Young offers is backed by its “We Make It Right™” guarantee: “If you are not happy with our equipment, service, supplies, billing or anything, let us know and we will make it right, right away.” The company is continually seeking ways to invest in its community through local charities and partnering with other family-owned and operated businesses. Finally, RJ Young strives to provide an environment where its employees can achieve personal and professional goals, exceed customers’ expectations and utilize their resources as an investment in the community. HAS RJ YOUNG BEEN HONORED WITH ANY RECENT MILESTONES AND AWARDS? RJ Young has received awards, recognitions and certifications from many leading brands that it offers, including Canon, Ricoh, Lexmark, HP and Océ. RJ Young prides itself 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? The company is in the midst of a very exciting time with a focus on expanding its presence in the Montgomery market, and rolling out new products and services. With a community-centric mindset, RJ Young proactively seeks out new opportunities to make an impact on the local economy through investments and partnerships with local charities. As RJ Young continues to grow within Alabama, it strives to stay true to its core values. These principles will be the guiding force for all of its future acquisition activity.

895 LAGOON COMMERCIAL BOULEVARD / MONTGOMERY, AL 36117 / 334-230-5107 / RJYOUNG.COM 37 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

38 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

For many nonprofits, maintaining a full in-

strive to maintain contact with you in the first

house accounting staff is too costly. Instead,

place. This also opens the window for your

many nonprofits often assign accounting

outsourced accountants to provide insight

functions to an employee who has other

into ways your organization may be able to

administrative duties, or in other organizations,

improve what you are already doing.

key-decision makers will take on the role for themselves instead of delegating those

3) CONSIDER THE PROCEDURES THE

projects to a professional accountant.

ACCOUNTING FIRM USES TO SHARE INFORMATION. There are two aspects

Leaving your accounting functions up to

of information sharing to consider:

a team member who lacks an accounting

responsiveness and security. Ask questions

background may cost your business much

to determine if your data will be secure and if

more in the long run. Quality of work, time and

communication processes are in line with the

money are all at stake.

way your own business operates.

If you don’t have the resources to hire a full-

Keeping up with complex and ever-changing

time accountant, consider outsourcing your

accounting policies can be challenging for

accounting functions altogether. Outsourcing

nonprofits. But organizations that seek to

provides the same assurance and quality as

be financially savvy and compliant need a

hiring an accountant for your business at a

professionally trained accountant. In order

fraction of the cost. Having someone on your

to experience the benefits of outsourcing,

side with a background in accounting can help

though, you need to make sure you’re

your nonprofit streamline processes to gain

outsourcing to the right accounting firm.

efficiencies and reduce costs, allowing your organization to focus on programmatic goals that further your mission.

MEET THE EXPERT

SO, HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT ACCOUNTING FIRM? 1) EVALUATE YOUR OUTSOURCED ACCOUNTANT LIKE YOU WOULD A POTENTIAL EMPLOYEE. Think carefully about their experience and take time to reach out to references and past clients to get an understanding of how they provide services.

2) KEEP IN TOUCH WITH YOUR

Donna Conte is a Principal in Warren Averett’s

OUTSOURCED ACCOUNTANT. Outsourcing

Finance Team Support Division and the Service

doesn’t mean sacrificing all control. The

Area Leader for the firm’s Accounting Services

best way to ensure that everything is being

Division. She has more than 20 years of

handled properly is to communicate with the

experience in small business advisory, taxation

accountants. If you’ve picked a reputable firm,

and outsourced services. 334-260-2426

the chances are that their team members will

Donna.Conte@warrenaverett.com.

39 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

E X P E R T I S E A N D A N S W E R S TO C O M M O N B U S I N E S S Q U E S T I O N S F R O M LO C A L S I N T H E K N O W

W H Y YO U M AY N E E D A N O U T S O U R C E D A C C O U N TA N T A N D H O W TO P I C K O N E BY D O N N A B . C O N T E , C PA

TOTAL RESOURCE CAMPAIGN 2019 / BUILDING ON TOGETHER

BUILDING MGM BUSINESSES

40 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

The Chamber’s Total Resource Campaign (TRC) launched in 2006 and for 13 years, it’s delivered on its goals: to support the Chamber while also providing area businesses with unique and valuable marketing opportunities. We asked some of TRC’s “repeat customers” to share the benefits they’ve reaped that keep them coming back to TRC year after year.

CONTINUED SUPPORT

Q&A with TRC repeat customers

DON’T MISS IT

TRC kicks off on September 17 and continues through mid-November.

GILBERT DARRINGTON Health Services, Inc. CEO

What products do you usually purchase and why? We normally sponsor the Diversity Summit, the Eggs & Issues events and the Chairman’s Circle. It is very important to our organization that we continue to be an active member of the Chamber to connect with our member organizations and be a better community partner. Participating in Chamber events also provides us with the opportunity to highlight the many healthcare services that we provide to those who may not know about us. What benefits and ROI do you see from these products? By increasing our attendance in Chamber events through TRC sponsorships, along with our Marketing Director being a Chamber Ambassador, we have seen an increase in patient visits and an increase in requests from other organizations to partner with them on healthrelated events. What is the No. 1 reason you are a TRC “repeat customer”? It lets us stay actively engaged in the Montgomery community. We view TRC as a way for us to be involved with other community leaders to make a difference in the River Region. Would you recommend that other businesses support the Chamber through TRC? I would certainly recommend that other businesses support the Chamber’s TRC program. This is a way to keep abreast of the community activities and a way to connect even more organizations together in an effort to better our River Region.

41 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

CONTINUED SUPPORT

Q&A

with TRC repeat customers

REASON TO BE A CONTINUED SUPPORTER

ARLINDA K. KNIGHT Trenholm State Director, Title III Programs, Marketing and

To continue to support the Chamber and economic growth for Montgomery and to meet and network with other businesses.

Continuing Education What products do you usually purchase? Each year, Trenholm State purchases Eggs & Issues, River Region Economic

-TROY MAXWELL

Summit, State of the City and County,

THANKFUL FOR TRC VOLUNTEERS

program has always been

products that will allow networking

spread the TRC message and reach out to other

Blue Cross Blue Shield District Manager

businesses and offer them

How long has Blue Cross Blue Shield participated in TRC?

Chamber programs, events

What products do you usually purchase? Annual Meeting, State of the City and County, Economic/ Diversity Summit and Chamber Open. Would you recommend that other businesses support the Chamber through TRC? Yes, I would recommend other businesses support the TRC because it’s a

products being offered. Trenholm State’s goal is to purchase

Chamber members who

At least since 2011

Other purchases may vary based on new

The backbone of the TRC its volunteers. They’re the

TROY MAXWELL

Alabama Update and the Annual Meeting.

the chance to sponsor and communications. Using their time, talents and connections, they work hard each autumn to sell TRC’s diverse range of marketing products. The Chamber’s TRC team would like to offer new and longstanding volunteers a heartfelt

“THANK YOU!”

great investment in the community

opportunities with the intent of increasing visibility, establishing relationships and building new partnerships. As an active participant in the various events, we are able to enhance our image and show the community that we are here to serve. Involvement in TRC also provides an opportunity for Trenholm State to open doors in areas that may not have existed without the involvement in these events. What benefits and ROI do you see from these products? Through the sponsorship purchases, we gain exposure for Trenholm State, and we are using this opportunity to align our marketing plan with sponsorship opportunities so that we may maximize our return on investment at a very reasonable cost. Marketing your business through the Chamber is a proven and cost-effective way to attract new customers. Would you recommend that other businesses support the Chamber through TRC? Yes. TRC is an excellent

as well as their business.

way to make great connections. For businesses seeking an opportunity to establish new relationships in the community, TRC is an excellent choice. 42 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

For a complete list of TRC sponsorship opportunities, visit the TRC website http:ygmtrc.com/ montgomerychamber19/

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 entire Chamber membership, or they can hit a target audience. That’s why many

businesses participate year after year. Here are a few NEW TRC sponsorship and marketing opportunities available this year.

NEW ADVERTISING PACKS The Chamber Advertising Pack is a communication bundle that includes several digital options, including both Chamber enewsletters and an enhanced

company listing on the Chamber’s online directory, while also offering brand identity on each MBJ issue webpage and

MONEY MATTERS

on a brand-new portable charging station that the Chamber will use during events

Over a few months each fall, the

throughout the year.

work done by TRC raises money to help fund a large majority

The Convention & Tourism Advertising

of the programs, events and

Pack is a communication bundle that

communications the Chamber

includes several digital options including

hosts and organizes throughout

the CVB’s “What’s Cool This Weekend”

the entire year. By investing

weekly email, quarterly industry partner

in TRC, member businesses

meetings and communications and

connect to the vital programs and

an enhanced company listing on the

resources they need to grow their

Chamber’s online directory, while also

business. Sponsorships not only

offering brand identity on the CVB

impact the Chamber, they fuel

convention bags and jump drives.

economic growth for Montgomery and the River Region.

NEW POWER PACK This pack of sponsorships secures your company with a corporate table and

makes it easy for you and your company to get noticed at several of the Chamber’s signature events: Eggs & Issues, State of the City & County, Alabama Update, Annual Meeting and the Diversity Summit. It also includes an enhanced company listing on montgomerychamber.com.

TRC FAVORITES: Hurry! These sponsorships sell fast and usually sell out.

A GOOD INVESTMENT NEW CHAMBER ESSENTIALS

• Networking Events:

This bundle is the best way to reach

• Chairman’s Circle

member businesses within the community and gain new customers. Essentials includes a sponsorship for each of the Chamber Orientations, along with logo placement on the New Member Bags.

60 Min Coffee & Business After Hours • State of the City & County • Alabama Update • Chamber Golf Classic • Diversity Dialogue

43 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

WANT TO GET INVOLVED? Whether you’re interested in volunteering or exploring the many marketing opportunities available, learn more about TRC by emailing Lynn Norton, lnorton@montgomerychamber.com

VESTOR IN

OFIL

PO WERHOUSE

Q&A

DONG RYEOL CHOI President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Montgomery Dong Ryeol Choi was part of the team that helped open HMMA in Montgomery. His return in 2017 to fill his new role was a happy homecoming for the veteran Hyundai Motor Company employee. How long have you been President and CEO of HMMA? I was appointed Question? Answer. President and CEO in November

Montgomery has become a second home for Hyundai Motor

2017. Between August 2002 and February 2007, I was part

plant to launch the powerful and fuel-efficient “SmartStream”

of the original team that helped start up HMMA. I’ve renewed

4-cylinder engine, for both the Sonata and Santa Fe.

Company, it was logical to invest another $388 million at our

many friendships since my return to Montgomery.

How will this positively impact the area? This What are the duties and responsibilities of your position? As President and CEO, I have many direct and

project is another example of high-tech manufacturing that

indirect responsibilities to lead HMMA’s efforts to achieve our

businesses around the world. At the same time, it demonstrates

key performance indicators. Achieving performance targets

Hyundai’s commitment to solidifying Alabama’s Top 5 ranking

for productivity, quality, cost, safety and staff development

among the states for the production of cars and light trucks. We

contribute to a sustainable business model. I must also motivate

are proud this project and past investments have improved the

our team members to not only work for their paycheck but to

quality of life of so many in the River Region. Every investment

take personal pride in supporting their family, giving back to the

is rooted in producing better products that lead to a sustainable

community and producing a product that is considered premier

business model and instill pride among our team members.

is transforming not only the automotive industry but other

in the automotive industry. I always believe providing a safe and stable work environment creates a workplace that inspires all of our team members to bring the best Hyundai vehicles to life.

What is your impression of Montgomery’s current business climate? I’m about 90 percent satisfied with Montgomery’s business environment. Montgomery’s rail

What is your favorite part of your work? I always

and highway access has effectively served our business’

like real improvements that are visible. To paraphrase Albert

infrastructure and logistics needs. The River Region has

Einstein, “Don’t expect better results tomorrow by doing the

embraced the numerous Korean businesses that have set up

same thing as yesterday.” Whether it’s a product or a working

shop in Montgomery. The only difficulty is a slight shortage in

environment or a process, I encourage our team members to

high-skilled workers. Maybe this was inevitable in the current

bring forth ideas that can drive improvements from the ground

economic environment, but I think this is going to continue to

up. I often say to my leadership team, “The captain who avoids

be a difficult problem to solve.

the iceberg is actually more heroic than the hero who saves people on the Titanic.” HMMA is a giant, ship-like organization

I know Governor Ivey and many workforce development

with many small heroes, from team leaders to executives to

organizations are collaborating on Work-based Learning

suppliers, who are working together to steer our company

Initiatives to address this issue. When these programs begin

toward longterm success.

to bear fruit, Montgomery and Alabama will be considered a

What is your take on the partnership between Montgomery (and the River Region) and HMMA?

Montgomery have praised Hyundai Motor Company’s decision

We have always had a strong partnership. I am always

to bring automotive manufacturing to central Alabama. Our past

appreciative of the efforts government officials and other

investments led to nearly 3,000 fulltime jobs at our plant and

business leaders have made to help HMMA succeed. They

a significant economic impact on the River Region. Because

have the mindset of “Go Together. Grow Together.”

44 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT FOUTS

premier location for business expansion.

What drove HMMA to expand in Montgomery and open the new cylinder head machining plant? Since HMMA’s groundbreaking in 2002, Alabama and

Hand-In-Hand HMMA President and CEO Dong Ryeol Choi is committed to continuing the strong partnership between the company and the River Region, sharing area leaders’ philosophy “Go Together. Grow Together.”

“

“HMMA is a giant, ship-like organization with many small heroes, from team leaders to executives to suppliers, who are working together to steer our company toward long-term success.” 45 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

POWER OF MAGA ZINES

When more than 1,400 U.S. advertisers were asked which medium offers the highest ROI, which was on top?

What % of U.S. adults said they’ve read magazine media in the last 6 months?

90%

MAGAZINES WITH

$3.94 RETURN FOR EVERY $1 SPENT

THE HIGHEST OF ALL TIME This includes 93% of those under 35 and 95% of those under 25.

50% higher than the $2.63 ROI from digital display and more than double the $1.52 from digital video

(GfK MRI, Fall 2015)

(Nielsen Catalina Solutions, Multi-Media Sales Effect Studies from 2004 - 2015.)

CATALOGUES RADIO

76% 71%

OUTDOOR SEARCH

69%

20-25 MINUTES

61%

POP UPS 25% (Marketing Sherpa, 2017)

(Digital First Content Marketing: the Return of Print - CMO by Adobe, 2016)

Number of times medium ranks #1 among affluent influential consumers across 60 product categories (GfK MRI, Spring 2017)

PR I NT I S M E M OR A BLE . Print creates an emotional connection. Print builds relationships. Physical material is more “real” to the brain, involves more emotional processing, and is better connected to memory, with greater internalization of ads—all important for brand associations. (FORBES)

For advertising information, call Christina Bennett at 334-221-4619 or email christina@exploremedia.org 46 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

4 TV

80%

RADIO

82%

in reaching influential consumers. 22

NEWSPAPER

T H E AV E R AG E T I M E S PE N T R E A D I N G A M AG A Z I N E I S

MAGA ZINES LE AD

INTERNET

PRINT.

The average time spent on a website is 2 minutes.

PRINT MAGAZINES

Of all media, which do U.S. internet users say they TRUST THE MOST?

M I L I TARY profile

RICHARD ALDRIDGE As Program Executive Officer and Director of the Air Force’s Business & Enterprise Systems (BES), Richard Aldridge knows how rapidly IT is changing. But he and his team are on top of it, and they’re lending their expertise to a powerful public-private partnership.

What does Business & Enterprise Systems do? Our motto is: “We run the systems that run the Air Force, moving money, manpower and material.” Essentially, we enable the business operations of the Air Force, fielding the IT systems and applications that allow it to accomplish accounting and finance, logistics, human capital management and a myriad other business functions unique to the military such as ammo disposal, training certification of parajumpers and repatriation of human remains back to the United States.

Who does it serve? We serve not only the 800,000 military and civilian Air Force employees, but we also provide solutions for the entire Department of Defense and most federal agencies, servicing more than 4 million users.

What does your job entail? I lead 2,300 employees at four locations (Montgomery, Dayton, San Antonio, Boston) who procure and operate 400 business applications. We also manage enterprise sourcing activities like providing contracts to buy laptops, desktops and more, leveraging the massive buying power of the Air Force to get a better price point for these things. Also, I ensure we follow Federal Acquisition Regulations while procuring business application solutions, and that the “lights stay green” for the operational systems the Air Force relies on to execute every single one of its warfighting and combat support missions.

What’s your favorite thing about your work? The IT world is such a rapidly changing space. Each day is unique, and I love attacking the challenges that come. PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.

Any recent honors? Last year, I was selected as the Small Business Executive of the Year for the Defense Department. airforcebes.af.mil

Big Ideas, Big Results “I’m so proud to be a part of the powerful public-public partnership amongst my organization, Air University and the various civic organizations like the Chamber, City of Montgomery and County Commission. We are on a great transformational journey here. We have some areas to improve like many cities, but there is no reason why the River Region can’t become the Silicon Valley of the South. If Walt Disney didn’t have a grand vision, Orlando might still be one big orange grove.”

47 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

M EM BE R profile

ANWAR SHAHID Founder and CEO of Propelled Technologies Anwar Shahid is passionate about offering cybersecurity, cloud, compliance and other IT services in the River Region, and he especially enjoys helping small businesses with their technology needs.

Are you from Montgomery? I’m originally from Atlanta. Alabama State University’s Computer Information Systems program brought me to Montgomery.

When did you start Propelled Technologies (PT)? I started PT as a side business on August 28, 2006. I began by building websites and fixing computers for local small businesses in the Montgomery area.

What are PT’s primary services? Cybersecurity, cloud migration, compliance and serving as a technology reseller.

Who are PT’s primary clients? DoD, federal and state government, local municipalities and small businesses.

What one piece of advice about cybersecurity would you give a small business owner? I would advise small businesses to perform a risk assessment to make sure they are aware of where their holes are. Then, create a plan of action and milestones to fix them. I also recommend that everyone have a disaster recovery plan in place as well.

What’s your favorite thing about your job? I love the fact that it’s a forever-changing field and the opportunities are open to everyone no matter who you are as long you work hard. The money is not bad either!

Recent awards and honors: PT recently received the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc Bigger and Better

“My goal since high school was to own a technology business. I remember actually writing it in a Dream Jamboree College Fair book I got in high school. We would share

Business Award. And we were recently reaccredited with the Better Business Bureau. I’m proud that I attained my Computer Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification. This has propelled my career and business higher, and I would encourage anybody looking to get into cybersecurity to go after it.

our college and future goals in them, pass them around and sign them. I guess that

propelledtech.com

worked, cause here I am.”

48 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.

Dream It. Do It.

49 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

M EM BE R profile

DAVID DENNIS David Dennis just marked 25 years at Harmon Dennis Bradshaw, Inc., and in that quarter century, he’s seen it grown four-fold, expanding to now be the seventh largest insurance agency in the state. He’s proud of the part he’s played, proud of the team around him and looking forward to his and the company’s next chapters.

What are Harmon Dennis Bradshaw’s primary services? We are a full-service insurance brokerage firm offering commercial insurance programs to medium and large businesses. These insurance programs primarily include workers’ compensation, property, liability, automobile, directors and officers liability, professional liability, umbrella, group disability, group life and secondary (or supplemental) group health insurance coverage. We also provide high-value home, auto, watercraft and life insurance programs for individuals.

How does your company stand apart? We offer a services platform known as Risk 360 to our larger clients that provides them with support and resources depending on the staffing that a client is unable to employ, i.e. safety; loss control; in-depth, one-on-one claim reviews; and HR sourcing. The breadth of services we offer is unique, and the clients we serve understand and appreciate that. Our community involvement is something we are particularly proud of too, as the agency supports time off for volunteer work and gives corporately and individually to multiple local and national organizations.

What’s your favorite thing about your job? Solving a problem for a client, exceeding their expectations or just helping them in some way is a rewarding experience.

What are your interests outside of work?

When I was about 25 years old, I set a short list of goals to

I enjoy the outdoors (farming, fishing, hunting,

accomplish before I turned 50. I can say those have all been

exercise, tennis), spending time with my family and

accomplished (personal and career). From a professional

friends and helping as much as I can at my church.

standpoint, I feel privileged to work with such a great team

hdbinsurance.com

that gives 150 percent every day, and I am looking forward to where the future takes us. From a personal standpoint, I have the bride of my dreams and two wonderful boys who give me all the joy this world could ever offer.

50 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID ROBERTSON JR.

Go for the Goal

51 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

52 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

All parents want their children to grow up to be respectful, courteous and compassionate

3) Make charitable giving a family tradition.

toward others. Getting them interested in

Whether it’s something you do once a

charitable giving is one way to help set them

month or every year, create a tradition that

on that path. And remember, giving doesn’t

will show your children how serving others

only involve financial donations. Regions

is an important part of life. Participating in

Bank works with many families in the River

awareness runs or walks is a great way to

Region who have made charitable giving a top

have a fun, recurring family event.

priority. Here are some tips I give clients.

4) Give your children input. 1) Choose charitable organizations that resonate with the whole family.

Ultimately, your children will see what you do

Discuss each family member’s interests and

volunteering, there is no better way than to

determine one or two common elements.

lead by example. Once the groundwork is laid,

Then research age-appropriate volunteer

children seem to find what they’re passionate

opportunities and narrow the list from there.

about. It may be similar to what you’re

Once you determine an organization or

passionate about, or it may be different. The

cause, discuss how each family member

key is to let them decide – and support them.

and mirror that. If you want to get them into

can volunteer and whether you can use family celebrations like birthdays to request

Getting your children excited about

donations in lieu of gifts. Doing these activities

philanthropic work doesn’t need to be

together will also bring you closer as a family.

complicated. A simple conversation about helping people and volunteering

2) Your child’s age can help you determine the best forms of charitable support. Age is important to consider because down in value; are not bank guaranteed; are not insured by any government agency; are not a condition of any banking activity.

is this information intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security or other financial instrument. Any opinions expressed herein are given in good faith, are subject to change without notice, and are only current as of the stated date of their issue.” Investment Products: are not FDIC insured; are not a deposit; may go

representation relating to the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of any information contained in the newsletter and shall not be liable for any damages of any kind relating to such information nor as to the legal, regulatory, financial or tax implications of the matters referred herein. This material is not intended to be investment advice nor

the trademarks of their owners and are used only to identify such companies or their services or products and not to indicate endorsement or sponsorship of Regions or its services or products. The information and material contained herein is provided solely for general information purposes. Regions does not make any warranty or

“The content and any portion of this newsletter is for personal use only and may not be reprinted, sold or redistributed without the written consent of Regions Bank. Regions, the Regions logo and other Regions marks are trademarks of Regions Bank. The names and marks of other companies or their services or products may be

BY H E N RY M O O R E

as a family will show your children that it’s important to you — and will eventually become just as important to them.

younger children may not feel connected to a particular organization and might feel bored if they don’t fully understand what’s going on or

MEET THE EXPERT

how their service helps others. For younger kids, sponsor a family at a local homeless shelter with children around the same age as your own. Have your children assist with the items to buy and have them help wrap and deliver the gifts. That helps younger children empathize with others just like them. For older children, mission trips can be great.

Henry Moore is a Wealth Advisor for Regions

Teenagers are at a perfect age for mission-

Private Wealth Management. Contact him at

oriented trips that provide a safe environment

Henry.Moore@Regions.com.

for an eye-opening experience.

53 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

EXPERTISE AND ANSWERS TO CO M M O N B U S I N E S S Q U E S T I O N S F R O M LO C A L S I N T H E K N OW

HOW TO GET YOUR CHILDREN EXCITED ABOUT CHARITABLE GIVING

Wednesday, October 30, 2019 10AM - 11:30AM

Small Business Resource Center 600 S. Court Street, Room 215 Montgomery, AL 36104 www.montgomerychamber.com/events - Presenting Sponsor -

54 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

SEIZING YOUR

SEAS0 NS If you’re a working woman and feel like you’re walking a tightrope when trying to navigate your work and family lives, you’re not alone. Achieving the proper work-life balance isn’t magic (and maybe not even necessary), but there are a few secrets that can make the goal of a happy home and career more attainable. BY JANEESE SPENCER

55 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

IS THERE SUCH A THING AS WORK AND LIFE BALANCE?

aving worked with women over the past 30 years, I’ve seen the tension that many professional women face. They struggle with

the question, “How do I balance a career and home life?” Wouldn’t it be fabulous if there were a magical “1-2-3 formula” that would enable us to find the perfect balance to handle all of our responsibilities? As a professional working mother of three children myself, it quickly became apparent to me that this issue was going to demand an intentional plan and careful forethought. First, the plan started with a newfound belief that I really could choose the trajectory of my schedule and my attitude toward work, home and family life. We are not as powerless as we sometimes feel.

1 / Shift Your Language This small but strategic change in my language was freeing because maybe balance is not the right word for what we need to attain. The definition of balance implies that you are giving equal amounts of time to both work and home at all times. I found that this expectation was simply not realistic. Life happens, and sometimes things evolve that are simply out of your control. Learning to live life from a place of seasons versus balance lifted guilt and pressure off of me and gave me the flexibility that I needed.

On this journey to discover balance, I read extensively, hoping to gain wisdom on how to juggle the various roles and demands of a career and family. Through much trial and error, I identified three strategic shifts that were instrumental in my own journey. I hope these encourage and empower you as well as you seek to live into healthy ways of being a professional career woman.

“Seasons” implies a decision on the front end of every day that you will do your best to give what you have to manage the most pressing demands before you. For example, certain times of your week, month or year may be more demanding on your schedule for your work. The question then is, “What can you do differently to navigate home and work in a positive way from this perspective?” Here are a few suggestions:

• Be proactive with your family and communicate with them about the season that you are in regarding your work. Ask for their patience and understanding as you navigate your

MEET THE EXPERT:

responsibilities.

• Commit to double up your energies and spend time with them following this season.

Janeese Spencer is the

• Model the same principles when your children face

Executive Director and Founder

demanding seasons. For example, when exams hit, offer to be

of Venture Life Coaching, LLC. She is a certified John Maxwell Life Coach, Motivational Speaker, Leadership Consultant and pastor with more than 30 years of experience teaching, leading and equipping individuals and organizations to reach their full potential professionally and personally.

a little more flexible until that season passes.

• If possible, seek employment where you will have some flexibility to handle periodic family responsibilities. Be proactive with your boss about your needs. I found that my family rose to the occasion with understanding and support. I’ve also discovered that your employer is much more willing to work with you when certain situations arise if you have over-communicated your needs and if you are willing to go the extra mile to get the work done.

56 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

GET STARTED WITH ONE OF THESE IDEAS.

“Seasons” implies a decision on the frontend of every day that you will do your best to give what you have to manage the most pressing demands before you.

MAKE IT HAPPEN Choose to prioritize your rest when calendar planning. Be creative about how to maximize your moments, hours or days. You must relentlessly pursue rest or the demands of life will soak you dry. Here are a few ideas: Daily, choose to close your door

2/ Lead From a Place of Rest Versus Exhaustion Most women I know are probably laughing at this statement, but the truth is that we can lead from a place of rest.

for 15 minutes at the office. It’s amazing what a few moments of quiet and reflection can do for your peace of mind.

Weekly, decide to schedule a lunch date for yourself to be quiet, take a walk or anything else that helps you to relax and refuel.

Monthly, schedule a babysitter for a few hours just for yourself.

to be a day of Sabbath or rest. Our week is to begin with rest and not end that way. What a revolutionary idea! Learning to take control of your

Our families can do a whole lot more than we give them credit for. Most parents want their children to grow up

It is interesting that most calendars begin with Sunday, which is supposed

3/ Choose to Empower More and Over-function Less.

to be self-sufficient and independent,

Schedule family vacations, family time together (with and without friends) and/ or date nights with your friend/ spouse. Make these commitments sacred.

calendar is imperative, because no

yet we do more than we should for them. Over-functioning is a cycle that can be broken. Letting go of perfectionist tendencies, unrealistic expectations and even guilt can empower your children. They

one is going to do that for you. It’s easy to make the mistake of prioritizing everybody’s schedule on the calendar except your own. No wonder we struggle with feeling tired, frustrated and overwhelmed. This pattern is destructive. Give yourself permission to take time for yourself without feeling guilty so that you can maximize the time

Be determined to make the hard choices about which

can begin at an early age to help with

activities your children will be involved in. How much time will it require for the rest of the family? You may be the only one who can protect your family from a crazy schedule. Don’t be afraid to say no and model for your family how to have a pace of life that is healthy.

This can save you hours on a weekly

you do have with your family.

household chores and responsibilities. basis so that you can spend more time investing in yourself and your family. It takes a little extra energy on the front end, but it is so rewarding to watch your children learn to contribute to the family. You can also choose to ask your spouse to champion certain household or family

“

First, the plan started with a newfound belief that I really could choose the trajectory of my schedule and my attitude toward work, home and family life. We are not as powerless as we sometimes feel.

”

Guard against overbooking your weekends with fun. Sometimes you just need to stay home and regroup.

Choose to unplug from any sort of media weekly. Set boundaries around the usage of phones and computers so that everyone can be fully present with each other.

57 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

responsibilities so that you are more emotionally available to the family.

WOMEN BUSINESS RIVER REGION

LADIES TO KNOW

Featuring

female professionals in the River Region you need to know

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT FOUTS, DAVID ROBERTSON JR. AND NICK DROLETTE

58 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHARISSE STOKES & LORA MCCLENDON

POWERED BY WOMEN Montgomery’s embrace of technology and innovation is revitalizing our community. Not only is Montgomery among the most historic cities in the country, it is quickly emerging among the most technologically progressive. Lora McClendon and Charisse Stokes are two business leaders working every day to expand what is possible in technology and its importance for business, education and quality of life. In years past, technology innovation existed, but in the separate worlds of the private sector, military partners and local, county and state governments. Lora and Charisse are on a team working to bring together those different entities.

Several of many other accomplishments include: • TechMGM was launched. • Montgomery was one of five winners of the International Smart City Challenge. • A lab for technology innovation became reality in a section of downtown. • MGMWERX, a state-of-the-art innovation center, became a reality, bringing military, academia, government and industry technology leaders together to solve key issues. Lora and Charisse are smart, energetic and passionate business leaders helping Montgomery prepare for the tech future.

Profile generously sponsored by Alabama Power

alabamapower.com 59 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

EXPLOREMEDIA

POWERED BY WOMEN Publisher Pam Mashburn KtC Business Manager Kristina Boddie Art Director Heather Cooper MBJ Manager Christina Bennett Auburn Opelika Manager Emily Dearing Managing Editor Savanna Pruitt Graphic Designer Shelby Shubird Office and Distribution Manager Mary Kathryn Maddox Communications and Marketing Associate Racheal Lunn Warm Welcome Lead Greeter Jan Burdette exploreMedia has experienced tremendous growth over the last six years because of the efforts of these talented and hardworking women. We currently manage seven publications with three being launched this year. A commitment to excellence while balancing the needs of the reader, advertisers and staff has been vital to our success. We value the unique gifts and perspective that each of these women bring to exploreMedia.

exploreMedia.org

Team Accolades: Heather Cooper has launched four magazines and serves as the Integrator of our Leadership Team. Kristina Boddie has increased revenue for her product more than 300 percent since beginning with exploreMedia. Christina Bennett has increased product offerings and revenue for MBJ and Potential magazines while also becoming a new mom. Shelby Shubird has photographed more than 100 teen spotlights and their parents and is launching her second publication. Jan Burdette has visited more than 1,200 new families since 2014. Savanna Pruitt interned with exploreMedia while at LAMP High School, earned several promotions and is now the Managing Editor of Potential magazine. Pam Mashburn started her business 12 years ago with a single publication. Under her leadership, exploreMedia has enjoyed robust growth and success, and Mashburn has plans for further expansion beyond the River Region.

60 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF ALABAMA

District Sales Support Representatives: Amanda Moore, Ashley Kilcrease, Patty McDonald

District Administrative Assistants: Yolanda Walker, Rene Lockhart, Morgan Newton, Kendra Burgess

AlabamaBlue.com

With a combined 153 years of service with our company, these distinguished women who are our District Account Managers and District Sales Support Representatives have professionally represented our products and services within the Montgomery business community. Each of them strive every day to provide a high level of professional service and account management by going above and beyond to meet the needs of our customers. Their efforts have allowed them to consistently retain 95 percent of their customers annually. This team of professional associates consistently works hard behind the scenes to cover what matters. Our Account Managers and Sales Support Representatives are supported behind the scenes daily by dedicated Administrative Support Assistants who have a combined 43 years of service. Their efforts and attitudes remain consistent daily and play a substantial role in the level of service we are able to provide to our customers.

61 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

VALLEY BANK Valley Bank celebrates working women at every stage of their careers. One of the ways we connect with women across Montgomery is through our Women in Business program, which empowers professional women, whether they’re entrepreneurs or executives. The program offers networking and educational opportunities to women in meaningful ways. Valley Bank is also proud to be the lead sponsor of events such as the Junior League Leadership Summit and Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama’s annual “Leading Ladies Award Brunch.”

800-522-4100 Valley.com

Caryn Hughes, Senior VP, Alabama Executive for Commercial Lending Division Lauren Lafferty, VP, Treasury Management Elizabeth DuBard, Market Manager, Downtown Jenny Camp, Market Manager, Eastmont Celie Allen, Market Manager, Millbrook Judi Chumley, Market Manager, Zelda Road

CONVERSATIONS Roundtables for Professional Women

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

11AM - 1PM @Wynlakes Country Club, 7900 Wynlakes Boulevard

Guest Speaker: Mayor Todd Strange Enjoy lunch, meet other local businesswomen, and bring plenty of business cards for networking. Registration deadline is Friday, October 9th, 5PM. Register at montgomerychamber.com/events or contact Bonnie Evans at 334-240-9299. - Presenting Sponsor -

62 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

JACKSON HOSPITAL AND CLINIC, INC.

POWERED BY WOMEN Jackson Hospital’s Women in Leadership Michelle Witzler, 3E/3W Educator Candice Williams, 4 East/4 West/PICC Director Denise Donohue, 6 East/6 West Director Pam Nix, Critical Care Services Director Melissa Sias Robinson, 5 Tower Director Courtney Williams, Interim Hospitalist Clinical Director Anita Hayslip, Patient Access Director Kerry Allen, 3 East/3 West/Telemetry/Dialysis Director Anita Yeargan, CVICU Director Anna Applin, 4N, Nursery Director Regan Sullivan, Respiratory Care Director Karen Baggett, Infection Control Director Sheena Coker, 4N Patient Care Manger/Educator Jan Hill, CNO, Vice President-Patient Care Services Edith James, Materiel Management Director Mia Mothershed, Marketing Director Teresa Smitherman, 3E/3W Patient Care Manger Alisa Sides, Perioperative Services Director Vicki Bartlett, 6 North Director

334-293-8000 jackson.org

Just as Jackson Hospital’s patients and community are diverse, so is its leadership. Jackson Hospital believes that a variety of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences contribute to their success and helps provide better care to its patients. The hospital believes in investing in staff who are invested in the care of our community. That’s why Jackson Hospital strives to provide a positive environment for its team members to be the best at what they do. That is who Jackson is, and it’s what they strive for every single day. Under diverse leadership, Jackson Hospital has earned five Centers of Excellence in AAA Surgery, Spine Surgery, Stroke, Heart Attack and Bariatric Surgery. It has also earned the Blue Cross Blue Shield Distinction + Award for Maternity Care, Knee/Hip Replacement and Spine Surgery. These highly awarded specialty departments are led by the diverse women in leadership at Jackson Hospital. Not Pictured: Karen Holland, Quality/Regulatory Compliance Director; Kelin Penney, Jackson Clinic Administrator; Andrea Sanders, HIM Director; Christina Perkins, CDI Director; Hannah Chadee, Physician Relations Director; and Sandi Greenawalt, Interim Case Management Director

63 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

RAYMOND JAMES | HALCYON POINTE These women are heavily involved in the community, volunteering on local boards,promoting pet projects and ministries, as well as serving in their local churches. The group is passionate about their faith and living it out in the way they do business and treat their clients every day. These ladies also give our office a good mixture of youth and experience, combining to offer more than 60 years of experience in the financial industry, while the new faces bring fresh ideas and a commitment to stay current with advances in technology that keep us energetic and efficient.

POWERED BY WOMEN Sr Vice President, Investments Karen Gallahar Branch Operations Manager Shery Campbell AAMSÂŽ Wealth Management Advisor Katelyn Nelson

334-213-4200

Financial Advisor Amanda Overby

raymondjames.com/montgomerywealthmanagement

Client Service Associate Amy Todd

COOK & ASSOCIATES, ATTORNEYS AT LAW Amanda Cook is a native of Montgomery, Alabama, and practiced Social Security Disability, Real Estate, and Immigration Law since 2012. Swan Johnson has brought a positive attitude, an amazing sense of organization and her fantastic math skills to our firm. She is an indispensable asset that we hope to have around for a long time. Olga Whiteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 10 years of experience working for Catholic Social Services brings our immigration clients knowledgeable expertise in an atmosphere of empathetic service. No representation is made that the quality of legal services performed is better than the quality performed by other lawyers.

334-356-7879 blackbeltlawyers.com

Immigration Specialist Olga White

64 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

AESTHETICA MONTGOMERY MEDSPA & GRACE POINT BEHAVIORAL

Medical Director & Owner Caroline Abolade M.D. A physician and an entrepreneur. A mother, wife and small business owner of two separate businesses, both opened in the last five years. Dr. Caroline Abolade is all of this and more. Packed in this diminutive 5-foot, 2-inch frame is a powerhouse mixture of passion, grit and determination. The passion comes through in her medical work as a psychiatrist. “To me, the patient is not just a number, they are a whole person, yearning for a way to understand their own life’s story. It is our job to listen and help them make sense of their stories,” she said. She has turned her other passion for all things beautiful into her work in medical aesthetics, recently opening Aesthetica Montgomery Medspa on the east side of Montgomery. Aesthetica addresses all things skin and body with the latest laser technology. In both businesses, Dr. Abolade brings three

You see her grit when you learn how this 23-year immigrant recently became a citizen this past July. “It is the determination you see in every newcomer chasing the American dream and for me, it was fueled by the singular thought that, ‘I’ve made it this far to the other side of the world, a long way from Ibadan, Nigeria, my ancestral home, and I can’t stop now. I’ve got to keep on going. Their eyes are all on me to make good for them,’” she said. Dr. Abolade is married with two boys. When she is not practicing medicine, she enjoys world travel and has lived on three continents so far. Creativity is her outlet. She enjoys making all things beautiful. During her down time, she enjoys singing with her church choir.

334-781-6060 aestheticamontgomery.com‎

65 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

SERVISFIRST BANK

The valuable contributions of Diane McLaney, Millie Houston and Michelle Rotton are deserving of celebration and recognition. They have been instrumental in the continuous growth of ServisFirst Bank Montgomery and have shown exemplary commitment to the banking and financial industry, while maintaining the highest level of customer service. We’d like to express our thanks to Diane, Millie and Michelle for their unwavering dedication to our company.

POWERED BY WOMEN Vice President Private Banking Diane McLaney Vice President Private Banking Millie Houston Senior Vice President Commercial Banking Michelle Rotton

334-223-5800 servisfirstbank.com

VENTURE LIFE COACHING Venture Life Coaching We have served countless individuals, couples and families through personal Life Coaching and our Life Coaching courses. Our coaching services are designed to assist people in various areas such as professional or personal growth, parenting, marriage, divorce recovery, blended families, spiritual direction and grief recovery. Venture Life Coaching is honored to provide four high-quality and comprehensive services for various businesses, churches and organizations in our area and throughout the Southeast: • Life Coaching • Consulting/Training • Leadership Development • Motivational Speaking

Executive Director and Founder Janeese Spencer

66 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

ALABAMA SOCIETY OF CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS (ASCPA)

POWERED BY WOMEN Lynne Bozeman CPA, Past-Chair of the ASCPA Board of Directors and Shareholder at Richard, Harris, Ingram & Bozeman PC Jeannine Birmingham CPA, CGMA, President and CEO of the Alabama Society of Certified Public Accountants

Hannah Donovan 2019 ASCPA Intern and Chairman Award Recipient, Alabama Department of Revenue Intern, Future CPA

Allison Guice CPA, ABV, CVA, ASCBPA Board Member and Senior Manager at Jackson Thornton

Phyllis Ingram CPA, Chair of the ASCPA Audit Committee and Partner-in-Charge & Industry Line Leader of Carr, Riggs & Ingram, CPAs and Advisors

June Bush 2019 ASCPA Intern, Future CPA

ascpa.org

Professional women advance client and community issues, goals and solutions because of our natural attributes of collaboration and inclusion. We tend to think outside of the box, seeking information and advice from colleagues, which accentuates our leadership skills while establishing strategies or solving problems. These qualities lay a foundation of trust with the individuals and organizations that Certified Public Accountants have the opportunity to serve. These women represent more than the organizations that they play a fundamental role in; they represent community, integrity and financial responsibility now and reaching into the future.

Notable: The ASCPA also employs 10 women who direct, operate and manage events, programs and resources to enhance Alabamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s accounting profession through advocacy, education and member engagement. This year we celebrated 100 years as an organization.

67 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

68 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

EXPERTISE AND ANSWERS TO CO M M O N B U S I N E S S QUESTIONS FROM LO C A L S I N T H E K N OW

H O W TO M I T I G AT E AU TO I N S U R A N C E R AT E I N C R E A S E S BY C H A R L E S H U M P H R E Y

In today’s commercial auto insurance

inactions. It is of utmost importance to ensure

marketplace, corporations that utilize

company drivers restrict all use of hand-held

company-owned autos are noticing significant

devices while operating a company vehicle.

auto rate increases. I wish the trend of rising premiums would stabilize, but insurance

> STEP 4

company analytics suggest otherwise.

Not all insurance carriers will pre-inspect your

Fortunately, there are measures a company

operation prior to releasing terms, conditions

can take to positively affect or potentially

and pricing. So, they rely on other means of

mitigate extreme rate increases.

information to help decide if an inspection is needed. One of these tools is a SAFER

> STEP 1

report generated by the DOT. If you currently

Start with the interview of a potential new

verify that your drivers complete daily DOT

hire with driving responsibilities. This

required pre-trip and post-trip inspections

comprehensive interview should include:

and that all defects are noted and corrected

review of the candidate’s accident history,

before that vehicle is put back into service,

review of any citations, evaluation of their

then this verification system will help keep

safety performance reports from prior

your company’s SAFER score at or below the

employers and review of prior drug and

national average for out-of-service violations,

alcohol test results.

and could help reduce the possibility of a DOT audit.

> STEP 2 The next step, if hired, would be an orientation

HDB can help you develop and implement

program. During this time, the employer

the above recommended management

can utilize road tests to be assured that the

procedures that are critical to a company’s

candidate is qualified to operate the vehicle

comprehensive risk management program.

they will be driving on the job. Orientation is also the perfect time to proactively review the company’s safety manual so that there is clear understanding of company expectations.

MEET THE EXPERT

After orientation, continue to monitor employees’ driving habits. This is best achieved using electronic log devices and a tracking system that records speed, hard accelerations, hard braking and other driver tendencies. Companies use these log devices, also known as telematics, for driver training purposes and even disciplinary actions for those who violate any federal

Charles Humphrey has worked in corporate

and state traffic laws. Conduct regular safety

insurance products for the past 16 years and

meetings to keep drivers aware of the

became a shareholder of HDB in 2008.

dangers they can experience themselves or

Call Charles at 334-517-1823 or email

impose on the public due to their actions or

him at chumphrey@hdbinsurance.com.

69 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

Q&A WITH AN EXPERT

> STEP 3

United with the Community.

Jimmy Stubbs, River Bank & Trust CEO and Jimmy Hill, President and CEO of River Region United Way at The YMCA of Greater Montgomery, one of United Wayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s affiliate agencies.

We owe our success to the communities we serve. Giving back is our way of saying thank you. River Bank & Trust proudly supports local nonprofit organizations like United Way and their commitment to making positive, lasting change in the River Region.

To see more follow us on

and RIVERBANKANDTRUST.COM RIVERBANKANDTRUST.COM |

Equal Housing Lender

Member FDIC

NMLS 405629

70 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

| 334.396.6565 334.396.6565

BY P O L LY H A R D E G R E E

Have you ever noticed how many financial

level of satisfaction with the overall banking

institutions there are? Look around the next

experience. Our Relationship Managers make

time you’re out for a drive. There is one

considerations based on their customers’

on almost every corner. You’ll see mega

needs and individual circumstances, and loan

banks, credit unions, mortgage companies,

decisions are made locally with quick and

community banks and more. With so many

efficient turnaround. Every interaction we have

options, it can be a daunting task to figure out

with our customers is engineered to make

which one is right for you and your business.

their entire banking experience enjoyable, informative and tailored to their short-term and

HERE ARE SOME QUESTIONS W E A R E T Y P I C A L LY AS K E D I N R E L AT I O N TO T H E B E N E F I T S O F WORKING WITH A COMMUNITY BANK:

long-range plans. At River Bank & Trust, you’ll enjoy the very latest in banking technology, along with special perks like gourmet coffee, complimentary windshield cleanings and freshly baked

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A COMMUNITY BANK?

Community banks play an integral role in local economic development. Deposits made at River Bank & Trust are loaned to individuals and businesses in the communities we serve. By reinvesting local dollars, purchases are made, jobs are created and our local economies thrive.

cookies. We treat our customers like friends and neighbors – not like a set of account numbers. In fact, we know most of them by name. If this appeals to you, we invite you to experience what River Bank & Trust has to offer. To learn more, visit riverbankandtrust.com, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Additionally, through volunteer work and charitable giving, community banks make a positive local impact. In 2019 alone, River

MEET THE EXPERT

Bank & Trust’s contribution to the annual River Region United Way Campaign will exceed $53,000. Our financial contributions focus on health and human services, education, economic development, arts and culture, and community development. For us, banking isn’t just about dealing in dollars and cents: It’s about making a positive difference in the communities we serve. HOW DOES WORKING WITH A COMMUNITY BANK BENEFIT A SMALL BUSINESS?

According to the Federal Reserve’s Small Business Credit Survey: Report on Employer Firms, community banks are the small business lender of choice. The reason is the customer’s

Polly Hardegree has been in the banking industry since 1973. She is currently Executive Vice President of Wealth Management and Retail Banking at River Bank & Trust. Reach her at 334.290.2673 or phardegree@river.bank NMLS #441570 71 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

EXPERTISE AND ANSWERS TO CO M M O N B U S I N E S S Q U E S T I O N S F R O M LO C A L S I N T H E K N OW

COMMUNITY BANKING

Small Business Briefcase +

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

SOCIAL MEDIA SMARTS Successfully using social media to promote and grow your business doesn’t have to be stressful, but it does require some strategy. / BY SUZANNA WASSERMAN

TIPS TO KNOW FROM A PRO

COMING SOON

In the beginnings of social media, you could just post whatever you wanted and everyone would see it. There was no algorithm dictating who saw what. Fast forward to 2019, and it’s so different. Everything is methodical; everything is done with purpose. That’s why

Watch out for more tips from Suzanna in the November MBJ issue.

creating a social media strategy is crucial to your business. While your specific strategy will be unique to you and your business, there are some universal first steps.

ESTABLISH

IDENTIFY

A BRAND.

WHY YOU ARE

PUT YOURSELF

If you already have

USING SOCIAL MEDIA

IN YOUR FOLLOWERS’

them in, make them

one, that’s great! If not,

AND YOUR TARGET

react. Be a human!

work with a professional

SHOES. Are you posting

DEMOGRAPHIC.

to create one. Your

Both of these will

something that would

brand is the one thing

help you create your

that defines you and

goals. Starting a social

should also be present

media strategy without

in your social media

knowing your target

strategy. Working with a

follower/consumer will

professional is key.

never work. You know

>>> GOOD TO KNOW

your business better

professional can come

time to reach the person

Working with a branding with full brand guidelines from logo placement to

than anyone; now it’s you’d like to teach about it.

colors and font styles.

Stop the fluff. Post the content that will draw

make you stop and read it, or just scroll by? With

BE PATIENT.

thousands of social

One of the most

media accounts added

important things

daily, it is so important to

to understand is that

provide your followers

social media audiences

with meaningful,

do not grow overnight.

accurate, informative

It’s about building

and most importantly,

relationships and

AUTHENTIC content.

cultivating trust in your

Many times when I

followers. It can take

coach others on taking

months or even years to

full advantage of social

drive conversions.

media I like to stress:

PRO TO KNOW

MEET THE EXPERT Suzanna Wasserman is the Director of Marketing for The Shoppes at EastChase and Crawford Square Real Estate Advisors. She is responsible for the marketing, events, communication and business development efforts of the shopping center, as well as the corporate office. She has more than 10 years of experience in marketing and public relations.

72 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

THE BASICS OF BUILDING A STRONG SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN FROM THE START: PICK A PLATFORM. EVERY

YOU NEED TO COMMIT FOR THE LONG TERM. One post per month or

business is expected to be on social

even one per week won’t cut it. Be

media now, but I don’t encourage

consistent and thorough with every

jumping all in for every channel. Find

form of social media.

out what is best for your business. For instance, unless you have informative

EXPECT TO INVEST IN SOCIAL

information and can post multiple

MEDIA ADVERTISING. Digital is

times a day, Twitter is not for you.

the most cost-efficient form of direct

Start with one channel and grow once

advertising we have now, so use it!

your business (and content) grows.

CREATE A PLAN OR A STRATEGY.

MEASURE YOUR EFFORTS.

If you as a business owner do not

Find out what works and what

have the time, I highly recommend

doesn’t. Instagram and Facebook

that you hire someone. Even to

both have a built-in insights tool that

consult. It’s so important to start off

can help you track the best days to

strong when launching your social

post, what gets the most engagement

media campaign.

and much more.

CONECTION COUNTS Kitty Wasserman’s Instagram account, @kittywass, is a great example of gaining an audience by truly connecting with them. She’s a Broker/Owner for Capital Realty Group River Region, but in addition to her “day job,” in 2018, she started her Instagram account to inspire women across the world to find their style and be more confident, even over the age of 70. She now has more than 100,000 followers, and she hit that high mark in just over a year. But she’s earned this number by spending every morning before work and every evening responding to all of her comments; she’s genuine with her approach. Social media is the one place where you can connect on a personal level with your followers.

DIRECT HIRE TRY & HIRE TEMPORARY PAYROLL www.walkerworkforce.com

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of serving the River Region!

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73 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

CHAMBER NEWS

Connect +

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

THE LATEST HEADLINES:

ParkMobile Makes Parking a Breeze When you’re parking on-the-go, ParkMobile puts the power in the palm of your hand. Easily find and pay for parking from your phone without having to rush back to the meter.

HYUNDAI SANTA FE NAMED MOST DEPENDABLE MIDSIZE SUV Montgomery is proud to be home Enter your zone # by referring to nearby signage or using the map.

Select the duration of time you want to park.

Confirm your parking information and start your session.

Monitor your session and extend time remotely if needed.

SMART CITY NEWS: SMART PARKING LAUNCHES DOWNTOWN With an increase of 400,000 visitors last

the free app, available for both iOS and

of Using ParkMobile year andPerks an ever-expanding array of dining,

Android devices. A user simply enters the

hotel and entertainment options, parking

zone number posted on the ParkMobile

Easy to register and start is at a premium in downtown Montgomery.

Use thethe appduration nationwide sign, chooses of in time and taps

The city’s new partnership with ParkMobile,

the “start parking” button. ParkMobile sends

the nation’s leading provider of smart

alerts when a parking session is about to

the hassle of meters and loose change for

app or by calling the number included on

your session

View suggested nearby parking and mobility parking solutions, will trade zones

the convenience of paying for parking from Extend your parking session on-the-go nearly any mobile device.

thousands of locations

to Hyundai’s only North American manufacturing facility, HMMA, which produces the Santa Fe, Sonata and Elantra model vehicles. The Santa Fe was recently recognized as the most dependable midsize SUV by J.D. Power’s annual U.S. report card, and both the Sonata and the Elantra ranked

Set customizable parking expire. Parking may be paid for through the expiration reminders

in the top three of their segments.

the signage.

HMMA TO BUILD INNOVATIVE ENGINE HERE

ABC123

Add up to 5 license plate numbers to your profile

“ParkMobile is excited to bring our

Hyundai Motor Manufacturing

“Incorporating ParkMobile’s seamless

smart parking solutions to the City of

Alabama (HMMA) will be among the

capabilities into our parking infrastructure

Montgomery,” said Jon Ziglar, CEO of

first plants in the world to produce the

not only saves time and hassle, but it is

ParkMobile. “We have a growing base of

world’s first continuously variable valve

another example of our efforts to bridge the

users in Alabama, so the more places we

duration (CVVD) engine, an innovative

digital to the physical to meet the needs

are available, the easier it will be to park,

engine created by Hyundai that will

of residents, visitors and businesses alike,”

wherever you travel across the state.”

be featured in the Smartstream G1.6

SS-HTU-031119

Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange said.

T-GDi engine and built in HMMA’s

“We are proud to offer yet another smart,

Already available to users across Alabama

new engine plant beginning this

sustainable solution that enhances overall

in cities like Birmingham and Mobile,

fall. The valve control technology

quality of life and positions Montgomery for

ParkMobile’s expansion into Montgomery

regulates the duration of valve opening

further success and development.”

comes at no cost to the city. The partnership

and closing according to driving

complements Montgomery’s “Smart City”

conditions, achieving a 4 percent

The ParkMobile app is available for more

strategy to leverage technology to solve

boost in performance and a 5 percent

than 1,700 metered parking spaces in

everyday issues, increase efficiency and

improvement in fuel efficiency. The

Montgomery. Signage posted around the

enhance overall quality of life in Alabama’s

technology also cuts emissions by 12

city explains how to pay for parking using

capital city.

percent.

74 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Connect T H E L AT EST H EAD L INES, U P DATES AN D IN S IDER IN FO FROM YOUR CHAMBER

THE LATEST ECONOMIC NEWS: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NEWS: 2018 was a monumental year for Montgomery, and the momentum continues in the first six months of 2019. Check out these impressive stats. Announcements of NEW AND

EXISTING BUSINESSES YIELDS $178.2M in capital investments.

AUTO SUPPLIER OPENS FIRST NORTH AMERICAN FACILITY IN MGM On July 10, the Chamber, along with state

“This is a company that has both a rich

and local elected officials, joined Gerhardi,

history and a solid reputation for being on the

Inc., at the grand opening of its Montgomery

cutting edge of the future. Their investment

facility, its first in North America. The company

in the River Region speaks volumes about

has invested $41.6 million in the new facility,

what we have to offer,” said Elton N. Dean

which will employ up to 235 employees.

Sr., Montgomery County Commission

340 NEW JOBS WERE CREATED.

Montgomery ranked in the

TOP FIVE MARKETS for home price appreciation.

Chairman. “Gerhardi, Inc. is very excited to announce the

grand opening of our state-of-the-art injection

“We congratulate Gerhardi on their grand

molding, electroplating and assembly plant

opening. Gerhardi could have chosen any

in Montgomery,” said Gerhardi’s Managing

place in North America to locate this facility

Director, Reinhard Hoffmann. “Montgomery

and they chose the Capital of Dreams,” said

has proven itself as the perfect location

Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange.

for Gerhardi to introduce our processes and

product to the automotive world in the U.S.

“We welcome Gerhardi as part of

As Alabama continues to grow and develop

Montgomery community,” said Willie Durham,

as one of the leading areas in automotive

Chamber Chairman. “In Montgomery they see

manufacturing, Gerhardi, Inc. looks forward

a place that can uphold their high standards

to the many opportunities for growth in the

of excellence. It is certainly exciting to know

future.”

that we are part of an organization so firmly

rooted in the future.”

Gerhardi, founded in 1796, originally

manufactured brass and copper buckles.

Gerhardi is headquartered in Lüdenscheid,

Over the years it expanded to production

Germany. It employs approximately 1,400

of tea and coffee sets. By 1952, it

workers at four production plants throughout

began to shift focus to production of

Germany with annual sales totaling

automotive components.

approximately $200 million.

75 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

In February, THE MEDIAN PRICE APPRECIATION WAS 15 PERCENT compared to the 3.6 percent national average and 3 percent statewide average.

Tourism continues to be an economic driver with 22,749 MORE HOTEL ROOMS BEING SOLD SO FAR THIS YEAR, compared to last year.

ALABAMA’S BUSINESS CLIMATE WAS RANKED 3RD IN THE NATION by Business Facilities magazine, a national publication that focuses on economic development.

CHAMBER NEWS Connect T H E L AT EST H EAD L INES, U P DATES AN D IN S IDER IN FO FROM YOUR CHAMBER

NEWS & UPDATES: CITY CEMENTS PARTNERSHIP WITH RUBICON GLOBAL The City of Montgomery announced that a

not harder, to enhance our residential and

formal three-year agreement has been reached

commercial services,” Montgomery Mayor Todd

with Rubicon Global to equip more than 60 City

Strange said. “It is another investment that will

vehicles with its RUBICONSmartCity technology

pay dividends for future growth and development

to improve performance, reduce maintenance

by affecting overall quality of life in the Capital of

costs and enhance residential and commercial

Dreams.”

sanitation service.

The three-year contract with Rubicon stems from

“The RUBICONSmartCity platform helps cities of

a successful six-month pilot program launched

all sizes leverage data to make smarter decisions

in 2018. The partnership proved beneficial

about waste, recycling and city operations,

to both parties and earned the Smart Cities

leading to improvements in

Connect Smart 50 Award for

smart city projects across the

EDUCATION NOTES: CHAMBER HOSTS CHARTER SCHOOLS DISCUSSION

world. More importantly, the

The Chamber recently

software unleashed a realm of

facilitated a panel discussion

new capabilities that could be

on charter schools, where

useful throughout the City’s

panelists outlined and

public works and public safety

discussed charter school

organizations. Part of this

pros and cons in detail.

included transforming the City’s

Close to 100 people from the

the City of Montgomery decided

sanitation fleet into a mobile data

community were on hand

to award Rubicon this smart city

collector by enabling trucks to

for the discussion and were

sustainability and quality of life that map to an overall mission to end waste,” said Michael Allegretti, Chief Strategy Officer, Rubicon Global. “Piloting RUBICONSmartCity, the City of Montgomery was able to view and analyze data that is helping the City improve customer service and shape future policy decisions. We are thrilled that

“RUBICON IS AN ESSENTIAL PART OF OUR OVERALL SMART CITY STRATEGY THAT ENSURES OUR SANITATION AND FLEET ORGANIZATIONS WORK SMARTER, NOT HARDER, TO ENHANCE OUR RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES.”

Urban Operations, an annual awards program recognizing the 50 most transformative

contract.”

flag potholes, overgrown grass, graffiti and other

able to submit questions

issues found across routes.

throughout the event.

A technology company providing software as

Panelists included Krystal

a service solution for smart city management

“We saw ourselves as co-innovators with

Allen, Founder & CEO, K. Allen

processes, Rubicon helps clients optimize daily

Rubicon,” Montgomery City Services Director

Consulting, LLC; Tyler Barnett,

operations and ultimately find myriad efficiencies,

Chris Conway said. “Once we saw the success

Founding Executive Director,

and thus cost savings – from fleet and equipment

in managing our routes and fleet performance,

New Schools for Alabama;

repair costs to manpower and overtime. The

we began testing new ways the application

Justin Hampton, Director

platform includes a phone-based mobile app,

could save time, staff resources and money while

of Innovation & Strategic

a plug-in device and a web portal allowing the

better serving residents. Rubicon – and other

Initiatives, Montgomery

City’s Sanitation Department to track key metrics,

projects, like Roadbotics and StarWatch – are only

Education Foundation; Dr.

like service confirmations, missed pickups and

the beginning for Montgomery as we build the

Lashae King, Montgomery

issues at the curb. The City’s Fleet Management

blueprint for what it actually means to be a Smart

Public Schools, STEM

Department will harvest data to track vehicle

City.”

Specialist; and Dr. Lori White,

usage and maintenance needs in real-time.

UAB School of Medicine

The City also announced a two-year extension

& Board Member, LEAD

“Not only are we saving staff time and taxpayer

of its partnership with RoadBotics, which offers a

Academy.

dollars with Rubicon, but this is an essential part

much more comprehensive and unbiased analysis

of our overall Smart City strategy that ensures our

of Montgomery’s paving needs at a fraction of the

sanitation and fleet organizations work smarter,

time and costs associated with human analysis. 76 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

77 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

78 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

CHAMBER NEWS Connect T H E L AT EST H EAD L I NES, U P DATES AN D IN S IDER IN FO FROM YOUR CHAMBER

THE LATEST BUZZ: TOURISM

Mark Your Calendars for Upcoming Meet Ups:

CHAMBER CVB HOSTS MEET UP AT IRISH BRED PUB On July 16, the Chamber’s CVB held its quarterly Industry Partner Meet Up at Irish Bred. These unique events provide the Hospitality Industry an opportunity to engage, connect and foster collaborative relationships, but they also provide the CVB with an opportunity to inform the industry on key initiatives, sales activity and special projects.

3rd Quarter Tourism Social Thursday, September 12 3rd Quarter Industry Partner Meet Up Wednesday, October 16

HOSPITALITY ACADEMY 2019 KICKS OFF The 2019 class of the Montgomery Hospitality Academy started on July 8 with 31 participants representing a variety of organizations around the region and was hosted by the Chamber CVB, the Montgomery County Commission and the City of

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

Montgomery.

CHAMBER EVENT HELPS BUSINESSES INCREASE THEIR NET WORTH

Trainers with Continuing Education and Outreach at Troy University spent time teaching attendees how to manage the

The Chamber recently began hosting

overall guest and customer

a new business development program for member businesses called Chamber ROI. The 50-minute training session offers valuable tips and tools and provides indepth insight into:

service function, discover and

NEXT EVENT: Sept 12 at Chamber’s BRC

solve the most impactful service dilemma, learn how to respond to the difficult customer and how to “keep them coming back” by managing the

• Navigating the Chamber

customer service journey.

• Networking 101 • Key steps to obtaining insider intelligence regarding MGM • Chamber activities, sponsorships, added member value and benefits and many of the opportunities offered throughout the entire River Region business community.

79 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

80 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

M EM BER Spotlight

CB&S BANK With its recent acquisition of PrimeSouth Bank in the Montgomery, Wetumpka, Birmingham and Tallassee markets, CB&S Bank is now the largest privately held and the fourth largest Alabama-based financial institution.

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: Approximately 600 in 56 locations in Alabama, Mississippi and Tennessee. HISTORY: CB&S Bank was incorporated as Citizens Bank on February 28, 1906 and opened its doors for business on March 3, 1906. The bank was started with $25,000 in capital and today is a $1.9 billion community bank headquartered in Russellville, Alabama. WHAT ARE THE BANK’S PRIMARY SERVICES? CB&S Bank offers a complete line of full-service banking products and other related financial services to retail and commercial customers through its subsidiaries. WHAT IS THE BANK’S BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY? CB&S Bank is committed to providing the best possible customer experience through dedicated employees and forwardthinking solutions.

Mike Ross, CB&S Bank President and CEO

WHAT SETS CB&S BANK AND ITS SERVICES APART? CB&S Bank is a community bank focused on making an impact in the communities we serve. We focus on building relationships with customers in order to better meet their financial needs. HOW IS THE ACQUISITION OF PRIMESOUTH BANK BENEFITING CB&S BANK AND ITS CUSTOMERS? “The combination of PrimeSouth Bank and CB&S Bank allows CB&S Bank to further expand in the Birmingham market, one of the key growth markets in Alabama. We have wanted to expand in central Alabama for some time, so it was a perfect fit to partner with a high-quality community bank like PrimeSouth,’ stated Mike Ross, President and CEO of CB&S Bank and a native of the River Region. “I am thrilled to be able to do business where I was born and raised.” CB&S Bank Board of Directors

WWW.CBSBANK.COM 81 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

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:

STATE OF TALENT: CHARTER SCHOOLS – JUNE 17 at the Chamber’s BRC

JUL 10

60 Minute Coffee at Troy University Sponsor: Troy University

Presenting Sponsor: State Farm Willie Durham Agency

The Montgomery Chamber facilitated a panel discussion on Charter Schools, where panelists outlined and discussed Charter School pros and cons in detail. Close to 100 people from the community were on hand for the discussion and were able to submit questions throughout the event.

CHAMBER ROI: MAXIMIZE YOUR INVESTMENT FOR A GREATER RETURN – JULY 18 AND AUGUST 1

at the Chamber’s BRC

Chamber ROI is a BRAND-NEW business development program targeted to help local

JUL 25

increase their netWORTH!

Sponsor: Spectrum Reach

AUG 60 Minute Coffee 08

businesses

Business After Hours at Alabama Shakespeare Festival

at Montgomery Regional Airport

Sponsor: Montgomery Regional Airport

The 50-minute

MILITARY FAMILY APPRECIATION

training session

DAY – JUNE 20

offers valuable tips &

SAVE THE DATE

NEXT ROI IS SEPTEMBER 12

at the Montgomery Zoo

tools, and provides in-depth insight

Presenting Sponsor:

into:

Guardian Credit Union

• Navigating the Chamber

For the 25th year in a row, the

• NetWORKING 101

Montgomery Chamber and the

• Key steps to obtaining insider

Montgomery Zoo partnered

intelligence regarding MGM

together to host more than 2,500

Chamber activities, sponsorships,

Military families and personnel for

added member value/benefits and

the Annual Military Appreciation

many of the opportunities offered

Day at the Zoo event. Guests were

throughout the entire River Region

given FREE access to the Zoo for

business community

the day and were treated to a free lunch.

82 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

83 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

Hill Hill Carter Names Director of Operations and Chief Security Officer

therapy (OT) program in 2022, pending accreditation.

Greg Jackson was named the Hill Hill Carter’s Director of Operations and

Amy Oliver was hired as Director of

Chief Security Officer. Jackson will

the Occupational Therapy Program.

serve in this capacity to further

Oliver earned her occupational

enhance the security atmosphere

therapy degree from The University

within the firm and will be the central

of Mississippi Medical Center and

point of contact for all Information

her doctoral degree in occupational

Security and Firm Operations going

therapy from Rocky Mountain University

forward. Jackson brings almost

of Health Professions in Utah.

20 years of Biometric Security, networking, cybersecurity and Heather Mount was hired as Director

computer experience to this position.

of the Physical Therapy Program. She

Harmon Dennis Bradshaw Announces New Director of Operations Harmon Dennis Bradshaw, Inc. (HDB) announced the appointment of Jeff McGee, CPCU, ARM as Director of Operations.

worked as a PT in rural Alabama for 14 years and taught for seven years in the PT program at Alabama State University. Paul Jordan was hired as Director of

McGee will oversee HDB’s overall

the PA program. The Family Medicine

business operations and ensure that

specialist practiced in Orange County,

client service exceeds expectations.

California, for more than 25 years prior

He joins HDB with more than 20

to coming to Faulkner.

years of experience in insurance agency operations and client service management. He spent much of his

New Waters Realty Adds New Team Member

career as an agency operations manager for a global insurance

Realtor Jennifer Lynn Thompson has joined the team at

broker’s branch in Birmingham and Jackson, Mississippi.

New Waters Realty. Thompson is a River Region native and a Pike Road resident. She is very involved with the

Rusty Logan Appointed Huntingdon Director of Bands

Pike Road community and serves as a substitute teacher in the Pike Road

Huntingdon College President J.

School District. She has 15 years of

Cameron West announced the

experience in the real estate industry

appointment of Dr. Russell (Rusty)

and a heart for helping others through

Logan as the College’s director of

personal relationships.

bands. Logan has served on the Huntingdon music faculty since 2014 and takes the podium following the

New Licensed Esthetician at Alabama Surgical Arts

retirement of former director Eddy Williams.

Paige Ferguson has joined the team at

Faulkner Hires New College of Health Sciences Directors Faulkner University’s College of Health Sciences has hired directors to develop the next three programs: the physician assistant (PA) program is scheduled to begin in 2020; the physical therapy (PT) program in 2021; and the occupational

Alabama Surgical Arts. Prior to that, she attended Aveda Institute where she earned her Esthetician License through their master’s program. Her goal as an esthetician is to make her patients feel comfortable and confident in their own skin by using customized regimens.

84 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

85 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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

86 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 B I G CO MMUNI TY NE WS: ASU Receives $2.25 Million Grant The National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded a fiveyear, $2.25 million grant to Alabama State University to add in continuing its successful efforts to enhance its research capabilities, STEM (science, technology, math and engineering) education and its emerging technology. The NSF funding comes from its Historically Black Colleges and Universities– Undergraduate Program (HBCU-UP). “The project will have a special focus on undergraduate students providing a unique opportunity to gain multidisciplinary research knowledge and skills in bioengineering and nanobiotechnology that will span across the science,

New Bongo at Montgomery Zoo The Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum announced the addition of three new Bongos to the African hoof stock herd. A female calf, Juni, born May 16, 2019, another adult female, Heidi, and a juvenile male, Naveen. Heidi and Naveen arrived at the Montgomery Zoo from the Greater Richmond Zoo.

technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education at ASU,” said Dr. Komal Vig, Professor of Biology. She said that the goal of the HBCU-UP program is to provide ASU undergraduates with a straightforward perspective of advanced graduate research, with a specific emphasis on increasing the number of well-

Bongos (Tragelaphus eurycerus) are large, heavybodied antelope with short and glossy, orange or chestnut colored coats that are darker on the underside and patterned with vertical white stripes. They are found inhabiting the dense forests of Eastern, Western and Central Africa. They are the largest forest-dwelling antelope species and one of the most distinctive, with horns that spiral as high as 35 inches in males.

TROY Recognized as Green Ribbon School Troy University is one of only four colleges or universities nationally to be recognized as a Green Ribbon School, Postsecondary Sustainability Awardee by the U.S. Department of Education. TROY was the only institution in Alabama to receive the recognition, which honors innovative efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, improve health and wellness and ensure effective sustainability education.

prepared ASU students who seek to obtain a STEM-related doctoral degree and who can successfully compete and be accepted in the nation’s top STEM graduate programs. “The ultimate goal of the program is for Alabama State University to significantly contribute to the pool of underrepresented minority students representing the next generation of scientists in America’s STEM workforce,” Vig said. The multi-million-dollar grant will also provide stipends for participating students along with travel funds, which will give students the opportunity to present their research at national and international professional scientific meetings and conferences. The grant funds will also provide an excellent opportunity for many high school students and teachers to engage and gain exposure in cutting edge training in bioengineering nanobiotechnology, and STEM education.

Earlier this year, TROY earned a spot on the Alabama State Department of Education’s list of Green Ribbon Schools,

Local Store Gets International Attention

bringing with the honor the nomination to be recognized

Johnny Marvin’s Paint and Furniture in Montgomery was

nationally as a Postsecondary Awardee. “To be recognized

recently recognized on an international scale by chalk paint

nationally by the U.S. Department of Education is a testament

mogul Annie Sloan. Sloan hand-picked Yancey Hutcheson

to Troy University’s commitment to be good stewards of our

and his shop to feature in her “Stockist Sunday” showcase

natural resources and communities where we are located,” said

on her Instagram and Facebook pages. Johnny Marvin’s is

Dr. Jack Hawkins Jr., Chancellor.

Montgomery’s only Annie Sloan Chalk Paint stockist. Hutcheson

87 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

has also made Sloan’s products available at Montgomery Antiques and Interiors.

Troy University received

AUM Student Earns Prestigious Scholarship

a National Endowment for the Arts grant in the

Teva Stinson, a May

amount of $15,000 to

Auburn University at

host the NEA Big Read,

Montgomery accounting

a program designed

graduate, recently earned

to revitalize the role

a competitive $10,000

TOP-NOTCH:

Homewood Suites Recognized Homewood Suites by Hilton Montgomery received an “Excellent” rating from Trip Advisor for the fifth consecutive year, which places the property in the travel website’s “Certificate of Excellence

of reading in American

scholarship from the Public

Hall of Fame.”

culture.

Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB).

An initiative of the NEA in

Stinson will remain enrolled

partnership with Arts Midwest, the NEA Big

at Auburn University at Montgomery in the fall to begin pursuit of her Master of Accountancy degree. The scholarship is subsidized by funds generated by the collection of monetary penalties paid by companies to the PCAOB, which was created through the congressional passage of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 to oversee audits of public companies and protect investors’ interests.

Troy University Awarded NEA Grant

Read seeks to broaden understanding of the world, local communities and individuals through the joy of sharing a good book. The grants enable selected organizations to promote and carry out community-based reading programs around a single book, featuring activities such as reada-thons, book discussions, lectures, movie screenings and performing arts events. Troy University, one of 78 organizations nationally to be awarded an NEA Big Read

88 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

grant, will organize activities around the book, “Citizen: An American

for the 187th Fighter Wing and three Geographically Separated

Lyric,” by poet, essayist and playwright Claudia Rankine, a 2016

Units. She has led several high-impact programs, including training

MacArthur Fellow and the Frederick Iseman Professor of Poetry at

hundreds of personnel on the protection of sensitive information,

Yale University.

consolidating Dannelly Field’s network storage drives and digitizing the wing’s paper records.

The Rosa Parks Library and Museum will hold a kickoff celebration. Other events will include book discussions and film screenings by

Sweeney is an active volunteer with several organizations in

Troy University faculty members dealing with themes discussed in

the community. She serves as the 187th Fighter Wing Chamber

the book. The events will culminate with a poetry slam and book

Ambassador with the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, she

discussion at the 2020 Alabama Book Festival.

volunteers as a tour guide and digitization aide with the Alabama Department of Archives and History and she leads and mentors

ASU Awarded $2.97 Million NIH Grant The National Institute of Health (NIH) has awarded Alabama State University a five-year grant worth $2.97 million from its National Research Mentoring Network titled, “Intersection of Social Capital,

Troop 9189 with the Girls Scouts of Southern Alabama.

Hodges Warehouse + Logistics Named Service Provider of The Year

Mentorship, and Networking on Persistence, Engagement, and Science Identity.” ASU will lead the grant activities, as well as partner institutions Tuskegee University (TU), Savannah State University (SSU), Vanderbilt University (VU), and the University of North Texas Health Science Center (UNTHSC). Each year, a minimum of 150 freshmen students from ASU as well as TU and SSU will benefit from this grant. ASU’s Dr. Manoj Mishra, Professor of Biology and founding Director of the University’s Cancer Biology Research and Training (CBRT) organization, will serve as the principal investigator of the grant.

Achievements Bradley Attorneys Appointed to Leadership Positions Five Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP attorneys have been appointed to new leadership roles with the American Bar Association (ABA) Section of Litigation for the 2019-2020 bar year. They are: Dylan C. Black, Robert Emmett Poundstone IV, Anne Marie Seibel, Ethan T. Tidmore and Bridget V. Warren. All are members of Bradley’s Litigation Practice Group.

Hodges Warehouse + Logistics was named Service Provider of the Year at the Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association (AAMA) third annual Supplier of the Year Awards ceremony. Hodges, which picked up its first automotive client 10-plus years ago and was founded as a family-owned warehouse business, has experienced tremendous growth in the sector. The Montgomery-based company has grown from one truck and three trailers in the last eight years to 45 trucks and 230 trailers. Hodges now services six original

Sweeney Named 2018 AL National Guard Woman of the Year Tech. Sgt. Ivy Sweeney, a Knowledge Operations Manager with the 187th Communications Flight in Montgomery, received the 2018 Alabama National Guard Woman of the Year award at a ceremony on May 22 at the Alabama National Guard Joint Force Headquarters in Montgomery. Sweeney was nominated for the award by Maj. Joseph Roberson, 187th Communications Flight Commander, due to her leadership style, record of performance and accomplishments outside of the military.

equipment manufacturers with its 750,000-plus square feet of space.

Montgomery Vet Named “Veterinarian of the Year” Dr. William Sternenberg of Goodwin Animal Hospital in Montgomery was awarded “Veterinarian of the Year” by the Alabama Veterinary Medical Association while attending the Emerald Coast Conference. Upon the announcement of the honor, his colleagues at this American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) accredited pet hospital, expressed congratulations and pride.

Montgomery Physical Therapist Joins Select Ranks In her current position, Sweeney is directly responsible for base

With aging baby boomers and longer life spans swelling the

records management, knowledge operations, publications and forms,

population, more healthcare providers who understand how to

FOIA/Privacy Act requests, base mail and SharePoint administration

care for older people and their special needs will be a must. One

89 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

Alabama healthcare professional has joined the select ranks

for its commitment to improving the lives of residents

of physical therapists who specialize in treating the older

through quality care. The distinction is the second of three

population. Tiffany Brown, DPT, has become certified by the

progressive award levels through the National Quality

American Board of Physical

Award Program, presented by the American Health Care

Therapy Specialties in geriatric

Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/

physical therapy.

NCAL), the leading association for long-term and post-

acute care. Capitol Hill previously received a Bronze –

Brown is a graduate of Alabama

Commitment to QualityAward before applying at the Silver

State University and is the

level.

director of rehabilitation at Rehab

Local CPA Honored

First in Montgomery. Most of her

The Alabama Society of CPAs held its 100th annual

career has been dedicated to

members meeting on June 13 at the Wynlakes Golf

treating older adults, and Brown

& Country Club. During the annual awards program,

is one of many who believe

Montgomery CPA and partner

this age group needs more

in the Carr, Riggs & Ingram,

professionals that understand their needs.

CPAs and Advisors accounting

Brown’s certification means she has advanced knowledge and experience to better treat older adult patients. It also means she has an advanced clinical knowledge of the most common diagnoses and conditions that affect the geriatric population.

firm (CRI) Phyllis Ingram was honored as a Life Member of the organization with the E. Lamar Reeves Life Member Award. Ingram has been an active

Awards & Honors

member of the Society since

Butler Snow Honored Butler Snow was named runner-up for Law Firm of the Year – USA in Citywealth Magazine’s 2019 Magic Circle Awards. The awards ceremony was held May 16 in London. The Magic Circle Awards – the premier awards for the private client financial sector – are held annually to select the best advisors, managers and firms in the global private client financial industry.

joining in 1989. She has served as Vice Chair of the ASCPA’s Management of an Accounting Practice Committee and currently serves as Chair of the ASCPA Audit Committee. She is currently the partner-in-charge of the Carr, Riggs, & Ingram Montgomery office as well as the Financial Services Industry Line Leader for the firm.

Troy University Designated Tree Campus USA

MDA’s Angie Jordin Named Mother of the Year In February, Angie Jordin was named the 2019 Mother of the Year for the State of Alabama by American Mothers, Inc. Jordin is the Director of Business Development for the Muscular Dystrophy Association and was nominated by her daughter. American Mothers, Inc. is a nationwide organization committed to valuing mothers through service and education. As the official sponsor of Mother’s Day and the Mother of the Year, American Mothers is the voice of 85 million mothers in America.

All four of Troy University’s campuses in Alabama have been awarded the Tree Campus USA® designation by the Arbor Day Foundation. Created in 2008 by the Arbor Day Foundation, the Tree Campus USA program honors colleges and universities for effective forest management on campus and for engaging staff and students in conservation goals. Troy University achieved the title by meeting Tree Campus USA’s five standards, which include maintaining a tree advisory committee, a campus tree-care plan, dedicated annual expenditures for its campus tree program, an Arbor Day observance and a student service-learning project. Currently there are 364 campuses across the United States

Montgomery Nursing Home Wins Second National Award

with this recognition.

Capitol Hill Healthcare has been recognized as a 2019 recipient of the Silver–Achievement in Quality Award

90 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

Starke Agency Receives “Max Performer Award”

Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers list. Those named to

MarshBerry announced that Starke Agency, Inc., is the

this list are: Greg Allen, Lead Products Liability Attorney;

winner of the 2019 annual Southeast MAX Performer

Andy Birchfield, Mass Torts Section Head; LaBarron Boone,

recognition award. The MAX Performer award is a mark

Executive Committee Member; Kendall Dunson; Danielle

of distinction given to an independent agency that has

Mason; Ted Meadows; Tom Methvin, Managing Attorney;

strong financials in addition to fostering a client-first culture

Dee Miles, Consumer Fraud Section Head; Leigh O’Dell,

throughout the entirety of the company.

Executive Committee Member; and Navan Ward Jr.

“MarshBerry has fostered a peer exchange environment for

Recognition by Lawdragon 500 is an honor, as it stands

the Starke Agency that has allowed us to thrive in the wake

as one of the most respected groups in the profession.

of obstacles faced by small businesses. Through leadership

Recipients of this honor are determined by editorial staff

development, producer retention, peak performance

research of top verdicts and settlements as well as one-on-

service standards and perpetuation, they have allowed

one interviews with attorneys across the nation.

us to have ‘confidence moving forward’,” said Trey Starke, President & CEO, Starke Agency. “We are proud be to the

Lawdragon also took time to recognize the lawyers it

winner of the Southeast Region MAX Performer award.”

selected in 2015 to its Lawdragon Plaintiff Consumer Hall of Fame, which includes Beasley Allen Founding Attorney

Beasley Allen Attorneys Honored Ten Beasley, Allen, Crow, Methvin, Portis & Miles, P.C. attorneys have been selected to the Lawdragon 500

Jere Beasley. The Hall of Fame includes only the top 25 members who are touted as “legendary and iconic lawyers” by Lawdragon 500 editorial staff and attorneys nationwide.

91 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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

Homewood Suites Honors Locals

WAIT ER S FOR W E LLN E SS

Hilton celebrated its 100th anniversary in May, and Montgomery’s Homewood Suites by Hilton celebrated 30 years the same month. To promote both milestones, the property decided to recognize groups making a difference in their communities, honoring the dispatchers of the 911 and the communications department for the City of Montgomery. On May 29, the hotel hosted a reception for the employees at the communications office. Francine Molette, General Manager, and Ray Brown, Director of Sales, explained the choice. “They are always behind the scenes

Celebrity Server Fundraiser Supports Local Health Programs

but play a vital role in the safety and well-

Montgomery nonprofit The Wellness

Richardson, Jackson Hospital Urological

first responders, and we want to say ‘thank

Coalition (TWC) hosted “Waiters for

and Robotic Surgeon; and David Woods,

you’ for all they do,” Brown said.

Wellness,” a celebrity server fundraiser,

Owner, WCOV FOX 20 and 2019 mayoral

to support its free health and wellness

candidate.

programs in the River Region on June 18 at Central restaurant.

being of the city. They are actually the first-

Homewood Suites by Hilton Montgomery is used to community service. At the LBA

Parties made a reservation with the celebrity

Hospitality conference in Birmingham, it

server of their choice, and at the end of

was awarded the Barry Kraselsky C.A.R.E.S

Celebrity servers included Dr. Chai

their meal, had the opportunity to make a

Award for the fourth consecutive year.

Chamnong, Chamnong Family Medicine; Ed

donation. “The Wellness Coalition has been

This is awarded to an LBA Property for

Crowell, Air Force Brigadier General (retired)

working to improve the health and quality

outstanding community service.

and 2019 mayoral candidate; Elton Dean,

of life for residents in the River Region for

Montgomery County Commission Chairman

20 years with positive results,” said Ghandi

and 2019 mayoral candidate; Shannon

Daniels, interim Executive Director at The

Ferrari, City Watch Uncut-Montgomery

Wellness Coalition. “This event was a new

Founder and 2019 mayoral candidate; Dr.

opportunity for the public to get involved

Crystal Reese, Jackson Hospital Obstetrics

and make a real change in our community.”

and Gynecology Physician; Dr. Brian

WANT YOUR NEWS IN THE MBJ? Submit information for consideration to Jina Miniard at

Local Nurse Selected for The National Council of State Boards of Nursing Licensure Examination

to practice nursing

Gretchen Vercher, Chief Nursing Officer

RN® exam is one of

of Encompass Health Montgomery

the requirements

was approved by the Alabama Board

necessary for

of Nursing and selected by NCSBN

attaining a nursing

release if possible.

to participate on the NCLEX-RN® item

license/registration

development panel of subject matter

in the United States

experts. The NCLEX-RN® and NCLEX-PN®

and participating Canadian provinces and

SUBMISSION DEADLINES:

examinations identify those candidates

territories.

at the entry level. Passing the NCLEX-

who demonstrate minimal competence

92 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

jminiard@montgomerychamber.com. Please attach press releases as a Word document or a PDF (Word documents preferred), and please include high-resolution (at least 300 dpi) photos with your press

NOVEMBER ISSUE: SEPT 30 JANUARY ISSUE: NOV 26

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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

GR OW I NG N E WS Rheem Acquires Intergas At the end of May, Rheem acquired Intergas of Coevorden, the Netherlands, through its group entity, Paloma Rheem Global, Inc. Intergas is a leading manufacturer of highefficiency, residential gas boilers and water heaters. Headquartered in Atlanta, Rheem is the only manufacturer in North

Local Architects Complete State Park Renovations Seay, Seay and Litchfield just completed

focal point of the lobby. The architect

an interior renovation of the lobby, dining

used a resin-based panel in the façade of

and hotel rooms of Joe Wheeler State Park

the desk that contains twigs to bring an

in Rogersville, Alabama, for the Alabama

outdoor element into the interiors. The

Department of Conservation and Natural

desk is backlit to create a warm glow for

Resources.

guests as they enter the lobby. The lobby

facelift was complete with new furniture

A challenge that faced the architectural

that helped to bridge the gap between the

team at SS&L was to brighten up

newly renovated and the existing space.

the space but still maintain the rustic

In addition to new carpet and LVT in the

charm of the state park. The outdated

hotel rooms and suites, new bedding and

reception desk underwent a complete

draperies were implemented in each room.

transformation, making the new desk a

America that produces heating, cooling, water heating, pool/spa heating, commercial boilers and commercial refrigeration products. Today, Rheem is America’s No. 1 water heating brand, and its products are available in more than 50 countries. With the acquisition of Intergas, Rheem will obtain a first-class platform in the European heating and hot water market, which is the second largest in the world.

River Financial Corporation & Trinity Bancorp, Inc. Merge On June 5, River Financial Corporation

ServisFirst Bank Announces Advisory Board Addition

Trustmark Names Kimberly Baker Advisory Board Member

ServisFirst Bank, a subsidiary of ServisFirst

Kimberly Baker has been named a

Bancshares, Inc., recently announced

member of the Trustmark Advisory Board

the addition of Taylor Williams to the

in Montgomery. Baker currently serves

ServisFirst Bank

as the Director

Montgomery Board

of Development

of Directors. Williams

and Marketing

is responsible for

for Valiant Cross

managing PowerSouth

Academy and

Energy Cooperative’s

has over 17 years

economic development

of experience

and governmental

in marketing,

affairs divisions. Prior to joining PowerSouth

public relations,

Energy, he worked as a corporate

development and nonprofits.

development project manager at the

and Trinity Bancorp, Inc. announced jointly the signing of a definitive agreement for a strategic merger of the two entities. Upon closing of the transaction, the combined entity will have more than $1.275 billion in total assets, $875 million in total loans and $1 billion in total deposits with 17 locations across Alabama. As part of the merger, a combination of shares of River Financial common stock and cash will be issued to the shareholders of Trinity. As a result of the bank merger, Trinity Bank locations in Dothan and Enterprise will operate as River Bank & Trust.

Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. 94 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

95 MONTGOMERYCHAMBER.COM

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

Aesthetica Opens

Bradley Launches Cannabis Industry Team

Aesthetica, a new medical day

Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP has launched

spa, recently opened in East

its Cannabis Industry team, a multi-disciplinary group of

Montgomery. The facility, which is

attorneys dedicated to meeting the specific needs of

close to EastChase, has the area’s

cannabis industry clients, including hemp companies.

only WarmSculpting with SculpSure, a laser procedure endorsed by

“As the cannabis industry in the United States has

Hollywood celebrity Brooke Shields.

experienced rapid growth – especially after the

“We offer every spa service from laser

enactment of the 2018 Farm Bill that removed hemp

hair removal, to laser body sculpting

from the schedule of controlled substances – Bradley

(permanent spot body fat reduction)

is well positioned and committed to helping businesses

and laser skin tightening,” said Dr.

navigate an array of legal challenges involving marijuana

Caroline Abolade, Medical Director and CEO of Aesthetica.

and hemp,” said Bradley partner Whitt Steineker, Other services include laser skin

co-leader of the firm’s Cannabis Industry team.

resurfacing, laser hair removal, Aesthetica has one of the few Vivace

laser skin tightening, mink lash

microneedling facial machines in the

Bradley Chairman of the Board and Managing

extensions, lash tinting, lash

area. “It’s not your grandmothers’

Partner Jonathan M. Skeeters said, “Bradley’s Cannabis

lift, microdermabrasion, vaginal

microneedling; it’s radio-frequency

Industry team brings together attorneys from diverse

revitalization and facial vein treatment.

laser, tightening the face while

practice areas who understand the emerging cannabis

Spa services feature sugaring, waxing,

remodeling acne scars and smoothing

marketplace. Our team also has deep experience guiding

dermaplaning, massages and facials

wrinkles and fine lines,” Abolade said.

highly regulated businesses through complex and often

infused with serums.

conflicting regulations and laws.”

96 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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

TROY, Alabama Independent School Association Formalize Dual Enrollment An agreement signed by Troy University and

Alabama Ag Credit Awards Scholarships

the Alabama Independent School Association

Alabama Ag Credit awarded six

will provide ACCELERATE, the University’s

$1,000 scholarships to high school

online learning portal for non-public high school

seniors in Alabama. Unlike many

students, to AISA member schools.

scholarship programs, applications were accepted for not only those

Modeled on the ACCESS program, ACCELERATE

looking to attend a four or two-

provides classes for students that broaden the

year college, but also for those

depth of academics offered by participating

attending a technical school or

schools, provides advanced-placement classes

vocational school. To qualify,

in subjects that may not be available in every

students had to be graduating

school and affords students the opportunity to

seniors and have parents/

take advantage of dual enrollment classes to earn college credit. “We currently have almost 600

guardians who are customers of

students from AISA institutions studying with us on campus, and I see that number continuing to grow

Alabama Ag Credit. Along with

through this partnership. We have 170 AISA students enrolled in dual enrollment and that is a number

direct scholarships to students

I see growing exponentially. It is a great partnership,” said Dr. Jack Hawkins Jr., Chancellor.

who are children of borrowers, Alabama Ag Credit also gives

Michael McLendon, Executive Director of AISA, said he expects the agreement to have a tremendous

scholarships to the two land grant

impact for students in the AISA’s 76 member schools. “Through the dual enrollment process, students

universities in its territory, which

will have access to college-level classes, as well as advanced-level classes that they might not

include Auburn University and

ordinarily have access to at their local school,” McLendon said.

Tuskegee University.

The Elms of Coosada You’re part of the family.

• Private venue with Old South elegance • Fully restored historic plantation home • Events, Private Dinners, Board Meetings • Tables, linens, and chairs provided • Outside catering welcome • Full service event management 360 Lindsey Road - Coosada, AL 36020 | 334-285-3567 | info@elmsevents.com | www.elmsevents.com 97 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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

GO KARTING MONTGOMERY 9033 Wares Ferry Road, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-271-2020 • www.gokartingmontgomery.com Camtu & Don Nguyen, Owners / Attractions-Entertainment

GREATER MONTGOMERY HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION IDEAL HOME 3240 Lockwood Court, Montgomery, AL 36111 334-277-7766 • www.gmhba.org Angela Allen, Executive Officer / Associations/Non-Profit

CIVIL AXE THROWING

CAKEOLOGY, LLC

39 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104 334-245-4540 • www.civilaxethrowing.com/montgomery Scott Brewster, Business Development / Attractions

6250 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-647-1262• Fedelia and Ledrick Crenshaw, Owners Bakery; Catering-Services

CARE HELP HOMECARE

BOOZ ALLEN HAMILTON

4758 Woodmere Boulevard, Suite D, Montgomery, AL 36106 334-676-1400 Shaleta Freeman, Owner/Administrator Health Care Services

445 Dexter Avenue, Suite 4050, Montgomery, AL 36104 334-557-7252 • www.boozallen.com Lizz Said/ Chief Technologist Computers-Software

99 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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

BOJANGLES’

HOPE CREDIT UNION

9066 EastChase Parkway, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-356-7375 • www.bojangles.com Aki Henderson, Managing Partner / Catering Services Restaurants, Restaurants-Fast Food

3421 McGehee Road, Montgomery, AL 36111 334-604-4110 • hopecu.org/locationsal/mcgehee-road-branch/ Mary Givens, Manager / Credit Union

EDWARD JONES INVESTMENTS

TD AMERITRADE

1740 Taliaferro Trail, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-593-5612 • www.edwardjones.com Jonathan Shoffner, Financial Advisor / Financial Planner

8007 Vaughn Road, Suite B, Montgomery, AL 36116 334-694-6790 • www.tdameritrade.com Jason Batrez, Branch Manager / Financial Planner/Advisor

KICK BACK RANCH & EVENT CENTER

SERCO

414 Union Academy Ada Road, Ramer, AL 36069 334-286-4140 • www.kickbackranch.com Melinda Newell, Owner / Event-Venue

5815 Carmichael Road, Montgomery, AL 36117 334-356-2420 • www.serco-na.com Becka Rowland-Buckley, Director / Management Solution, Call Center, Information Technology Firm

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CHAMBER NEWS New Members ASSOCIAT IONS/N ON -P R OF I T

CO N S U LT IN G S E RV IC E S , BU SI N ESS M A N AG E M E N T S E RV IC E S , CON SULTI N G, G R A N T W R IT IN G

Central Alabama Works! Gindi Prutzman 600 South Court Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334-300-8592 www.centralalabamaworks.com Hispanic Outreach Leadership & Action (HOLA) Melissa Murrell 600 South Court Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334-223-4890 ATTR AC TIONS-HI STORY, ATTR AC TIONS-BL AC K H E R I TAG E

The Legacy Museum Tera DuVernay 115 Coosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334-386-9100 www.museumandmemorial.eji.org The National Memorial for Peace & Justice Tera DuVernay 417 Caroline Street Montgomery, AL 36104 (334-386-9100 www.museumandmemorial.eji.org B A R S-SPEC IALIZE D, RESTAURANTS-BA R / G R I L L

Tower Taproom Jake Kyser 101-A Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334-356-5929 www.towertaproom.com C LEANING SERVIC E S

Jay Martin Management, LLC James Martin 1913 Brookstone Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 256-457-3609

Duality Management Consultants Inc. Chemaka Campbell 2079 Halcyon Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36117 334-450-4393 www.dualitymanagementinc.com

SEPTEMBER 2019 NEW MEMBERS C LOT H IN G & ACC E SS O R IE S - R E TA I L , G IF TS & S P E C IA LT Y- R E TA IL

Candle Cabin Wendy Guthrie 8135 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334-244-2201

COM P U T E R S - CO N S U LT IN G , COM P U T E R S - SA L E S /S E RV IC E S

Computer & Data Network Services Roger Blackmon 2940 Citizens Parkway Selma, AL 36701 334-874-8324 www.cdns-tech.com CON S U LT IN G S E RV IC E S

Growing Green LLC Natilee McGruder 612 Pimblico Road Montgomery, AL 36109 334-549-2462 Ignite Rich McAdams 530 C Discovery Drive Huntsville, AL 35806 256-270-9012 www.ignitenow.net

CO N S U LT IN G S E RV IC E S , M ARK ETI N G/ M A R K E T IN G R E S E A R C H , P UBLI C R E L AT IO N S , CO N S U LT IN G

Elizabeth Ellen Digital Elizabeth Bethune 24 Bright Spot Pike Road, AL 36064 334-318-0622 www.elizabethellendigital.com C R E D IT U N IO N

Hope Credit Union-McGehee Road Mary Givens 3421 McGehee Road Montgomery, AL 36111 334-604-4110 www.hopecu.org/locationsal/ mcgehee-road-branch/ D E N T ISTS - S P E C IA L IZE D

TW Orthodontics Holley Rose 4635 Woodmere Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36106 334-260-8166 www.twortho.com E M P LOYM E N T AG E N C IE S , EMPLOYMEN T S E RV IC E S

Malone Solutions Lynn Popwell 2542 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36117 334-229-9111 www.malonesolutions.com Staff Management/SMX David Gutzman 3032 Woodley Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334-224-9902 www.staffmanagement.com

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CHAMBER NEWS New Members E N T E R TA IN M E N T & R E C R E AT IO N

Lake Martin Machine Gun David McGirt 2520 Red Hill Rd Eclectic, AL 36024 888-660-6462 www.lakemartinmachinegun.com

H O S P ITA L S /C L I N I CS

Dalraida Clinic Eugene Romano 4367 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36109 334-647-1444 www.dalraida-clinic.business.site IN FO R M AT IO N T E C H N O LO GY FI RMS

F IN A N C IA L S E RV IC E S

ConsumerEdge, Inc. Kevin Carroll 4101 Wall Street Montgomery, AL 36106 315-480-1889 Shannon, Shannon & Associates, Inc. Nicovanna Shannon 600 South Court Street, Suite 300 Montgomery, AL 36104 864-363-2457

FO O D S - S P E C IA L IZE D

HoneyPop Poppin, LLC Titania Adams 45 North Burbank Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334-593-2447 www.HoneyPopPopcorn.com Wholey Smokes LLC Gregory Scott 3212 Dorchester Drive Montgomery, AL 36116 334-625-6921

Serco Becka Rowland-Buckley 5815 Carmichael Road Montgomery, AL 36117 334-356-2420 www.serco-na.com IN T E R IO R D E CORATORS, T R A N S IT IO N / O R G A N IZAT ION SERVI CES, CO N S U LT IN G SERVI CES

Fortunata Design Margaret Frazer-Proctor 346 Felder Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104 404-558-0533 www.fortunatainc.com IN T E R N E T- S E RVI CES

Props Love LLC George Goodwyn 2939 Chestnut Street Montgomery, AL 36107 334-221-0505 www.Propslove.com

F R A M IN G /A R T/G IF TS , P R IN T IN G S E RV IC E S / G R A P H IC D E S IG N

JA N ITO R IA L S ERVI CE/ S U P P L IE S

Matted Memories & More LLC Jeff Kimball 1938 Marler Road Pike Road, AL 36064 334-202-7956

Totally A Cleaning Service, LLC Annie Thomas 4439 S. Court Street Montgomery, AL 36105 334-546-3029

H E A LT H & N U T R IT IO N , R E TA IL S H O P S /D IST R IBU T IO N

Natural Healing of Montgomery Inc William Vance 8852 Minnie Brown Road Montgomery, AL 36117 334-593-0818

L IG H T IN G - R E TAI L

LED Solutions Robert Jones 120 Applegate Court Pelham, AL 35124 205-624-4840 www.ledsolution.net

CHAMBER NEWS New Members

MAI NT ENANC E/ RE PAI R COM PANY

US Tech Repair Alex Sawaleh 1174 South Decatur Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334-413-1114 www.us-techrepairs.com MAI NT ENANC E/REPAIR CO MPA NY, FIR E/WATE R DAMAGE

ART of Alabama & the Panhandle Heather Logan 107 Jesse Samuel Hunt Blvd Prattville, AL 36066 888-351-1288 www.art-us.com/stores/art-ofalabama-and-the-panhandle NU RS ING HOM ES/ ASS I STED LIVING

The Landings of Montgomery Coretha Slayton 3300 Lynchburg Drive Montgomery, AL 36116 334-280-1993 www.affinitylivinggroup.com P U B LI CAT IONS

Cheers! Publications Dana Price 3305 Audubon Road Montgomery, AL 36106 706-681-4443 www.BestVersionMedia.com RE AL ESTATE SALES AND DEVELOPM ENT

Kelly Realty, LLC Jeremy Kelly 229 Noble Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104 334-595-9819 kmontgomeryhomes.com

R E A L E STATE -B R OKER

MJohnson Realty, LLC Marquetta Johnson 445 Dexter Avenue, Suite 4050 Montgomery, AL 36104 334-557-7228 www.mjohnsonrealty.com R E STAUR A N TS -S OUT H E R N , R E STAUR A N TS , C ATER IN G S E RV I C E S

Peytonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Place Sissy Shaw 5336 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36109 334-396-3630 www.peytonsplace2eat.com TUTOR I N G S E RV I C E S , C H I L D C A R E C E N TE R S , COM P UTE R S -TR A I N IN G

EdTech Academy, LLC Kimberly Bell 2101 Eastern Blvd., Suite 420 Montgomery, AL 36116 334-593-1106 www.edtechacademy.org UN I FOR M S -R E TA I L

The Nurse B Collection Bella Brown 1530 Mulberry Street Montgomery, AL 36106 334-467-3476 www.thenursebcollection.com V I D E O P R OD UC TI ON

Southern Stream Live Leighton Boggs 492 South Court Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334-354-3881 www.southernstreamlive.com

Numbers reflect June 2019 over June 2018.

Economic Intel 72%

TOURISM

OCCUPANCY RATE LODGING TAX

JUNE 2019

LODGING TAX COLLECTIONS JUNE 2019 $1,151,480.45

+ 8.37% YTD JAN-JUNE INCREASE

YTD, JAN-JUNE 22,749 MORE HOTEL ROOMS HAVE BEEN SOLD COMPARED TO YTD 2018

HOUSING JUNE 2019

Source: Smith Travel Research Report, City of Montgomery

WINGS UP! UP 19.3% YTD FROM JAN-JUNE

TOTAL HOME SALES

77,763

PASSENGERS

+ 5.4% OVER JUNE 2018

452

WAY TO GO!

COMING IN 2020

BE DIRECT: DIRECT SAME-DAY SERVICE T0 DCA

+ 7.3%

AVERAGE SALE PRICE

1,919 TOTAL HOMES LISTED FOR SALE

99 AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET Source: Alabama Center for Real Estate, Montgomery Area

Source: MGM (Montgomery Regional Airport)

EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR

+ 1.2% CIVILIAN

+ 2.5% EMPLOYED

LABOR FORCE

176,678

170,765

3.3% UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area

SECTORS GOING UP

LABOR FORCE

MINING, LOGGING, CONSTRUCTION

+ 3.2%

FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

+ 1.3%

PROFESSIONAL & BUSINESS SERVICES

+ 1.3%

LEISURE & HOSPITALITY

+ 1.1%

Source: Alabama Department of Labor, MGM Metro Area

106 MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

MBJ

MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Post Office Box 79 Montgomery, AL 36101

108MONTGOMERY BUSINESS JOURNAL