Rising Tide - Summer 2013

PuBlIsheD BY

2200 university Blvd. tuscaloosa, al 35401 (205) 758-7588

www.tuscaloosachamber.com

eDITOr robin Jenkins

wr IT er ryan Phillips

BOarD OF aDVIsOrs

ashley gill

Jheovanny gomez

molly ingram

fitzgerald Washington

PhOTOgraPhers

Barry fikes

Dusty Compton

DesIgn

lashonda robinson

PrePress Manager

Chuck Jones

aDVerTIsIng eXeCuTIVe

kimberly Caldow (205) 722-0176

On The COVer riverfront village

Word from Our Leadership

Dear neighbor,

You are holding the inaugural issue of Rising Tide, the new magazine of the Chamber of Commerce of West alabama. thanks to our outstanding partnership with the tuscaloosa news, we will publish this magazine on a quarterly basis. i t is our mission to provide pertinent information that can be useful to the business community as well as interesting stories about the many talented professionals who help keep our economy strong.

We are so fortunate to be the home of great institutions of higher education such as the nationally-renowned university of alabama. our new magazine’s name hopefully alludes to that same championship mentality, but it also has a different meaning. one of the cultural mindsets among the volunteer leadership and staff of the Chamber is the old adage “a rising tide floats all boats”. to us, that means that when the public, private and nonprofit sectors of our community work together through a shared vision, everyone succeeds.

now and in the future, Rising Tide will be one of the avenues in which the Chamber will tell the story of all the great economic development-driven successes this community will continue to enjoy. We welcome your comments, questions and ideas.

happy reading,

Jim m. Page, CCe President and Ceo Chamber of Commerce of West alabama

We have all had the opportunity in recent years to see the successful results of “the process”: Paying attention to the details, playing together as a team, and settling for nothing less than your best every day. these same elements seem to have come together like never before in our community as local government, the Chamber of Commerce, and business people are working together to accomplish wins in economic development.

With the challenges and opportunities of the april 2011 destruction and the growth of the university of alabama, our area is poised for significant economic growth. even the new emphasis to “buy local” is a reminder of the pride we should have in our community for all there is to offer in shopping, recreation, natural resources, education, employment, services, history, restaurants, etc. i t is exciting to have a publication that will highlight these resources and the people making it all happen.

Jason Walker President, Walker associates vice Chair of economic Development the Chamber of Commerce of West alabama

Jim Page • Jason Walker

J IM Page, CC e President & CeO (205) 391-0562

jim@tuscaloosachamber.com

D O nnY J O nes, IOM Chief Operating Officer (205) 391-0552

donny@tuscaloosachamber.com

TraCY Cru MPTO n

Director of Finance and Operations (205) 391-0554

tracy@tuscaloosachamber.com

Mel espey

Membership Development specialist (205) 391-0553

mel@tuscaloosachamber.com

Fallon Franks

Director of Membership and Investor relations (205) 391-0553

fallon@tuscaloosachamber.com

sTaC e Y g ann

Director of leadership Development and events (205) 391-0559

stacey@tuscaloosachamber.com

lOwan Da Ja M es

Director of Information services (205) 758-7588

lowanda@tuscaloosachamber.com

r obin Jenkins

Director of Communications and Marketing (205) 391-0561

robin@tuscaloosachamber.com

J I ll M C D O nal D executive assistant (205) 391-0555

jill@tuscaloosachamber.com

Car O lYn Tu BB s assistant Director of education and events (205) 391-0556

carolyn@tuscaloosachamber.com

lOO w h ITFI el D

Director of education and workforce Development (205) 391-0563

loo@tuscaloosachamber.com

New Developments Bring New Life To T-Town

In comparison to other cities affected by the recent economic downturn, the west alabama economy stands as a testament to college area economies everywhere.

BY rYan Philli P s

around the city and surrounding areas, the effects of growth are apparent and according to the Chamber of Commerce, the local economy will continue its climb.

Donny Jones, Chief operating o fficer, the Chamber of Commerce of West alabama, recognizes the role that retail growth will play in shaping the ever-growing, local economy. “a city that is unable to capture its proportionate share of retail sales will be hampered in its ability to grow”, he said. “ this makes it possible to provide the quality of life services so many of its residents come to expect in a vibrant community.”

a s economists nationwide look for answers, Jones believes that through smart business tactics, tuscaloosa will remain on the upswing. he is certain that citizens will be pleased with the effects of the economic growth that will stem from new business coming into the area.

“one of the major issues for local governments is revenue” he said. “one of the greatest sources of that revenue is retail sales tax and business

license fees. one of the most important sources is tax derived from the sale of retail goods within the community—that is local money that goes right back into local projects. “

according to Jason Walker, President of the consulting engineering firm Walker a ssociates and v ice Chair of economic Development for the Chamber, there are many catalysts that drive the West alabama economy forward.

“ the tuscaloosa metro area is experiencing enormous growth in residential housing, recreational facilities and sporting events, cultural events, downtown renewal and a rapidly expanding industrial base”, he said. “ these factors along with the growth of the student population at the university of alabama have ignited the momentum of the economy in the region”.

much time and research is required in order to properly allocate retailers to maximize profit and the Chamber of Commerce utilizes a system that identifies areas in which the economy may prove to be a potential boom or bust.

“an objective in our strategy was to work with our partners at retail strategies and Decision Data to assess the types of retail categories and the retailers which would fill the “gaps” in our region”, Jones said. “ through this process we have identified over 150 potential retailers and restaurants for our market”.

Jones believes that in order to be successful, the target emphasis must be put on the local buyer. “ the tuscaloosa regional trade area population exceeds 350,000 with a retail purchasing power in excess of $2.1 billion”, he said. “ the goal of the City of tuscaloosa is to capture as many of those dollars spent on goods and services outside our trade area. these dollars are going to pay for road projects, schools and parks for citizens outside of tuscaloosa County.”

along with the financial analysis, property availability and business effectiveness play a crucial role in successful retail ventures.

“also, an analysis was made of available properties for those potential retailers”, Jones said. “Work is underway to assist tuscaloosa/

northport developers and realtors in marketing their existing sites and in the creation of new developments such as the Chance Partner’s riverfront village located on the old Chevrolet site close to the amphitheater, shops at legacy Park across from midtown v illage, Capital growth real estate’s City Center development where the old hobby lobby was located on mcfarland Blvd and 2700 Capitol Park adjacent to the o ld tavern.”

a legitimate concern held by many consumers across the country is the reputation had by large national corporations and their effects in smaller markets. a growing fear is that big market corporations will drive the family owned businesses off main street but according to the Chamber of Commerce, the benefits can be felt on both sides of the spectrum.

“our efforts to recruit new to the market retail have a positive overall impact to our existing retail base”, stated Jim Page, President and Ceo “By bringing in more retail options to the community, more residents stay home to do their shopping. the impact of more retail dollars staying in our trade area provides more opportunities for our local businesses to capture more of those dollars and grow their customer base. hence the name of this new magazine, rising t ide, because a rising tide truly floats all boats.”

around tuscaloosa and northport, citizens can also expect to begin seeing signs promoting a new “Buy local” campaign aimed at boosting the local economy by keeping local dollars in the market. this community wide project sponsored by the Cities of tuscaloosa and northport along with the Chamber will communicate the importance of supporting local businesses.

“so many times people in tuscaloosa will load up the car and drive to Birmingham to shop at the major retailers that are not offered in tuscaloosa”, Jones said. “We are doing everything we can in order to bring some of those retailers into the city because we want to keep those dollars here in order to provide more options and projects for the community”.

Key players in our economic development efforts are (front to back) Robert Jolly of Retail Strategies, Donny Jones of the Chamber, Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox, Jim Page of the Chamber, and Brendan Moore of The City of Tuscaloosa.

New Campaign Launched to Promote

ShOPPiNg LOCaL

In today’s ever-changing economy, the concept of promoting municipal growth at the local level has spread throughout the country as a possible solution to recent economic downturns.

BY rYan Philli P s

tuscaloosa and northport have had shop local campaigns in the past but recently introduced new ad formats created by totalcom marketing. the ads are in partnership with the Chamber and are attractively festive with a secondary component aimed at educating citizens about how important their dollar is to increasing the local quality of life.

the goal is to create a commercial atmosphere in both cities that is appealing to local pocket books while beneficial for economic growth. these campaigns invite the retailers to take part in making them successful by using website banners, social media material, posters, point of sale tents, and bag stuffers. the campaigns have the same look and feel but are specific to the commercial hubs of the cities.

the City of tuscaloosa’s campaign is t-town all the time, which highlights areas of commerce around the city such as midtown and the river market.

as listed on www.ttownallthetime.com, “money spent in t-town creates additional spending that is reinvested in the local economy to create more income and more jobs.” also, “if local money is spent in tuscaloosa, then it will stay in tuscaloosa by benefiting schools and projects that will keep the quality of life on the rise. “

on the other side of the bridge, the city of northport is putting the same emphasis on educating citizens and raising awareness about investing in the community by shopping local. its campaign, shop northport—now, features area hot spots like historic Downtown northport and mcfarland with the goal of attracting local dollars.

the northport website, www.shopnorthportnow.com, functions to educate taxpayers on the notion that if citizens spend money in the community, those tax dollars will be put back into the economy by being spent towards building and maintaining schools, parks, roads and more.

“The goal is to create a commercial atmosphere in both cities that is appealing to local pocket books while beneficial for economic growth.”

Ingram Far ms Fr uit & Vegetable Market

The Ingram Farms Fruit and Vegetable Market at 1196 Union Chapel Road (Near Sokol Park) offers a mixture of locally grown vegetables and Quality Produce. Our produce is acquired from growers in Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi. We also have premium apples, oranges, plums and other products from California and other states. All items are delivered daily and/or weekly to insure premium quality and freshness. Quality and customer satisfaction is guaranteed by John E. Ingram. John, a local practicing CPA, grew up on a truck farm in pike county. His family has operated a full size grocery store known as, Ingram’s Club Market, located in Troy, AL since 1959.

I have always enjoyed working with produce and providing

customer service. Ingram Farms provides a way for me to teach my grandchildren, student employees and other employees the techniques of growing, harvesting, packaging and marketing fruits and vegetables. Hopefully, they will also learn the importance of a good work ethic, accountability, customer service, and how to run a business.

We continue to expand the variety of items offered, and change and rearrange the layout of the market to provide exciting displays and ease of shopping for our customers.

When in season, most of our produce, comes from our farm along the Tuscaloosa/Pickens County Line.

1196 Union Cha pel Road

Turn on Union Chapel Rd, Across From Sokol Park

Open Monday through Saturday 7am-8pm Sunday 12pm-8pm 205-799-5273 Union Chapel Road Wa termelon Rd Sokol Park

space available at The edge the Chamber, the City of tuscaloosa, and the ua Culverhouse College of Commerce recently joined forces to create a business incubator called the edge – Center for entrepreneurship and innovation. the facility is located at 800 22nd ave. in downtown tuscaloosa. i t consists of approximately 9000 sq. ft. of office and shared space to be leased to early-stage companies, and provides a wide menu of services to both tenants and the local business community to help them succeed. tenants are welcomed and applications are available at the facility, at www.tuscaloosachamber.com/theedge, and by calling 205-722-5166.

Yea! Investor Panel event held

ten middle and high school students from the tuscaloosa area pitched their business ideas before a panel of eight real-life investors to compete for funding at the first annual Young entrepreneurs academy (Yea!) investor Panel Presentation event at the ua law school on april 9. the panel donated money and encouragement in their belief that they too can make a job-not just take a job-at any age! our local Yea! program is sponsored by the Chamber and the university of alabama.

Pictured L-R: Loo Whitfield, Director of Education & Workforce Development at the Chamber (YEA! Program Manager); Lee Henderson, owner of local Which Wich and Smoothie King franchises (YEA! Instructor); Runner Up Alexandra Sullivan of Brookwood Middle School and 2nd Life; Savannah Morgan of Northridge High School and Prayer Links; and Bobby Bragg of JamisonMoneyFarmer, PC (YEA! Instructor).

sheltonstate.edu

MBC Funding workshop helps Many

our minority Business Council hosted facts and forms: financing Your small Business on april 2 at the edge. attendees learned about funding programs for minority business owners and got help with applications.

women’s Division hosts spring Tea

our Women’s Division hosted this annual spring event on may 9 at the ua Chancellor’s home. the dues in this pure service group go directly to support many great community service programs.

Chamber Takes large Delegation to Montgomery

We took a group of 87 on our annual montgomery Drive in on march 1213. this chance for our Chamber board members, elected officials, and participants in this year’s leadership tuscaloosa class to get personal attention from legislators and state government leaders will be valuable in addressing problems and challenges in tuscaloosa going forward.

adopt-a-school week 2013 Celebrated

since 1985, the adopt-a-school Program has been an integral part of our public school systems, creating interaction between businesses and schools. february 25-march 1, aas partnerships celebrated aas Week to express appreciation to all partners and to highlight the projects and activities that are provided through the program. We sincerely appreciate the commitment our partners make toward ensuring that students in our public schools receive the best education possible!

state of the Community & education summit recap education topped our state of the Community talks on april 24 presented by ellis architects and regions Bank. tuscaloosa mayor Walt maddox warned of funding issues and said a tax vote is on the horizon. tuscaloosa County Probate Judge hardy mcCollum said merging the city and county school systems would save money. northport mayor Bobby herndon said his city is researching the possibility of creating its own school system. also, maddox mentioned expanding ua’s Bryant Conference Center to attract major conventions, addressed the rental housing shortage, downtown parking problem and the burden on police due to do state funding cuts.

mcCollum said infrastructure improvements, particularly roads, remain the county’s greatest challenge.

herndon said northport is seeing retail and residential growth.

our education summit sponsored by nucor steel and the Bryant Conference Center on June 6 included a presentation by the Public affairs research Council of alabama (ParCa) and we heard from our state and City schools superintendents and County schools interim superintendent. the event prompted discussions about how to improve education in our community.

the Chamber hosts Chamber in session events every other month.

Our Craftmen focus entirely on the work at hand, one detail at a time. This attention results in construction that is rendered to perfection, yet accomplished in a minimum time bracket. And that’s a fact worth considering when deadlines are pending. whatever your requirements, F.L. Crane & Sons has the experienced hands and “know how” to give you a beautiful and lasting finish.

Pictured are Melissa Davis, Joy Orr, Audra Browder, and Brenda Randall.

Leadership Tuscaloosa Celebrates 30 Years; Forerunners Turns 20

as a gift to the community for the support the leadership tuscaloosa program has received over 30 years, the 2013 class hosted a volunteer fair at the Bryant Conference Center on may 9. forty three non-profit agencies from tuscaloosa County met new volunteers. also, gene stallings was the guest speaker for the leadership tuscaloosa & forerunners graduation luncheon there that day. he spoke about leadership, told some great Coach Bryant stories, and closed by saying, “ there is nothing more important than leadership and leadership starts in the home.”

A day program for adults with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Pick’s, stroke, Huntington, brain tumors, trauma induced, alcoholism related, and other memory disorders.

Open M-F 7:30-5:30

943 31st Street East, Tuscaloosa 35405

For information call Vicki Kerr at 752-6840 www.caringdays.org

leadership Class of 2013

forerunners Class of 2013

Leadership Tuscaloosa, sponsored by the Chamber, is a personal development program to increase knowledge of the area’s economic, social, historical and political issues and needs. Forerunners is a division of Leadership Tuscaloosa, made up of juniors from Tuscaloosa city, county and private schools.

2013 Class of Leadership Tuscaloosa

Curtis Baggett, Bryant Bank

Jennifer Bagley, morgan stanley Wealth management

marcia Bailey, DCh health system

eric Bailey, tuscaloosa County sheriff’s office

Patrick Branch, tuscaloosa County

greg Carlisle (individual)

James Cochrane, regions Bank

leigh Covington, Chesapeake Consulting, inc.

Jamie Dykes, habitat for humanity

monica eubanks, Community service Programs of West alabama

fallon franks, Chamber of Commerce of West alabama

Charity golden, renasant Bank

april groeschell, nucor steel tuscaloosa

David hallman, tuscaloosa fire and rescue

richard henry, Park transfer

Jonathan hood, first national Bank of Central alabama

molly ingram, DCh health system

Bethany Jordan, Bfgoodrich tire manufacturing

Brendan knowles, Way, ray, shelton & Co., P.C.

karis lamb Wilson, key staff source

Wade langer, Capstone united methodist Church

richard langford, Capstone Bank

hannah lansdon, tanner & guin, llC

melinda lollar, hospice of West alabama

Brandi mckinney, alabama Credit union

kimberly mcmurray, Ward scott architecture

greg murray, alabama Power Company

Jim Page, Chamber of Commerce of West alabama

Paula Perry, the university of alabama

Jared Phillips, Parker towing

sarah Beth Phillips, robertson Banking Company

katie Pope, rosen harwood

Cathy rice, Jamisonmoneyfarmer PC

David riley, riverview Dental Designs

tim rosson, BBva Compass Bank

Will scroggins, Cadence Bank

Brandon stough, raymond James financial

Joe strauss, advantage realty group

tommy taylor, shelton state Community College

susan Warner, mercedes-Benz us international

2013 Forerunners

leslie andress, tuscaloosa academy

Yathrib aryanpure, tuscaloosa academy

Jordan Branham, sipsey valley

tanner Brinyark, northside

moriah Camak, Bryant

Blair Cruce, Brookwood

gage DeZoort, tuscaloosa academy

katharine Duckworth, northridge

noah ferguson, northside

rohit fonseca, holy spirit

Pierce goodbread, holy spirit

ashton green, Brookwood

nicole hamilton, tuscaloosa County

taylor hardy, holy spirit

katey harris, tuscaloosa Christian

nolen holbrook, sipsey valley

keith holcombe, hillcrest

ainsley horner, northside

imani irby, Central

Jade ledet, Bryant

Drake mcDonald, aCa

sela mcDonald, Capitol school

maggie mcguire, tuscaloosa academy

gailbriel moorer, northridge

hayden murphy, northridge

renu Pandit, northridge

neil Patel, tuscaloosa Christian

Jodi Pendley, northside

Dylan Price, tuscaloosa Christian

hannah rhodes, hillcrest

amber rice, aCa

Carlton robertson, Bryant

Cristina rojas, holy spirit

adam shepherd, Bryant

ryden smith, homeschooled

Ja’mere sneed, hillcrest

Will sullivan, aCa

Jazmine thompson, Central

shannel Washington, Bryant

mary-katherine Wesson, northside

rachel Wilson, tuscaloosa County

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here We grow again

ri BB on C uttings & groun D B reakings

De DIC aT e D Pers O nnel, In C. 423 Skyland Blvd., Ste. A-7 • Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 (205) 238-6312 • www.dedicatedpersonnel.com

kim osburn

Mar C h 2013-MaY 2013

B I llY’s sPO r Ts g r I ll 430 Main Ave. • Northport, AL 35476 (205) 267-1961 • www.billysbarandgrill.com

terry humphryes

Balle T a r Ts & F IT ness, llC

312 Merchants Walk, Ste. 4B • Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 343-6723 • www.balletartsandfitness.com

alison hollingsworth

J O urne Y In M OTIO n 432 65th street • tuscaloosa, al 35405 (205) 799-1382 • www.journeyinmotion.org

elaine gay

r ed oak l egal, P.C.

500 TownCenter Blvd. • Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 (205) 724-9107 • www.redoaklegalpc.com

steve Wiggins

Dru ID C ITY g ar D en Pr OJ e CT

university Place elementary school (205) 523-5450 • www.druidcitygardenproject.org

lindsay turner

mattress king, in C. 1413 McFarland Blve., e. • Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 (205) 344-6125 • www.mattressking.net

todd lester

Tu TO r D OCTO r

14809 Be L Aire eSTAT e S • Coker, al 35452 (205) 765-7675 • www.tuscaloosatutoring.com

Chris reese

eMB ass Y s u IT es hOT el university Blvd. and greensboro ave. in Downtown tuscaloosa (901)346-8800

kemmons Wilson

n u T r ITIO nal Paren T eral h OM e Care

500 B Paul Bryant Dr., e. • Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 345-4566 • www.nphc.net

ava tidwell

n ew Tenan Ts @ The eD ge

800 22nd ave. tuscaloosa, al 35401 (205) 722-5166

F O rza F I nan CI al (205) 686-4123 • www.forzafinancial.com

alexandria gilbert

sO u T hern Tra DITIO ns ClOT h I ng (205) 000-0000 • www.southerntraditionsclothing.com

sawyer Williamson

Zambooki, llC (205) 792-1155 • www.zambooki.com

heath hendrix

When you need a business loan* to help your company expand or take advantage of a new opportunity, you can trust the experts at Bank of Tuscaloosa. As your neighbors in the community, our business lending team is committed to finding the lending solution to meet your unique situation. And we offer the kind of personal service you can only get from a neighborhood bank. So whether you need to finance new equipment, move to a larger space or open a branch office, go to the bank that’s so committed to community, we call it home Neighbor helping neighbor at the Bank of Tuscaloosa.

Stephen Stabler Walker Evans

Pat Gooden

Working as One investors

The following will invest annually, over five years, funding the new economic and community development plan for our region! thank yoU!

gaMeChangers - $25,000+ annuallY

ChaIrMan’s CIrCle - $15,000+ annuallY

CeO COunCIl - $10,000+ annuallY aramark; at&t; the Bank of tuscaloosa; Bfgoodrich tire manufacturing; Bryant Bank; expo Displays; Jamisonmoneyfarmer PC; knight sign industries, inc.; merrill lynch; Phifer inc.; ua College of arts & sciences; Yellow Book usa

PresIDenT’s FOruM - $7,500+ annuallY harrison galleries/hfs holdings; ua Culverhouse College of Commerce

InVesTOr leaDers - $5,000+ annuallY

a&B electric Co.; advantage realty group, inc.; alabama gas Corporation; alabama Power Company; BB&t; Cintas; College station Properties; ellis architects, inc.; mcgiffert & associates, llC; Pritchett-moore inc.; rosen harwood, Pa; sealy furniture Company; thompson tractor Company, inc.; totalCom, inc.; War Construction, inc.; the WhmZ group at morgan stanley; Ward scott architecture

grOw Th ParTners - $2,500+ annuallY

alabama Credit union; alabama one Credit union; almon associates, inc.; BBva Compass Bank; Boone newspapers, inc.; Buffalo rock Company/ Pepsi Cola; Community service Programs of West alabama; D.t. & freight Company; eberspaecher north america, inc.; fitts agency; green Beverage Company; harbin & stough, PC; Jalapenos mexican grill; moody radio south; Parker towing Company, inc.; spiller associated furniture stores; southland Benefit solutions, llC; tennis Jackson electric Co., inc.; ttl, inc.; tuscaloosa Credit union; Way, ray, shelton & Company, PC; Walter energy, inc.; Which Which superior sandwiches.

COMMunITY COlleagues - $1,500+ annuallY

Barry fikes Photography; the Builders group of West alabama, llC; Capstone Bank; Chick-fil-a of northport; Duckworth-morris real estate; first national Bank of Central alabama; first south farm Credit; friday oil Company, inc.; hampton inns of tuscaloosa; hudson-Poole fine Jewelers; ise innomotive systems u s., inc.; Jessup, ingram, Burns & associates, llP; kyle o ffice solutions; lewis, smyth, robertson Banking Company; Winter & ford, llC; the locker room; morrison & smith, llP; renasant Bank; rex veron Design, llC; sentell engineering, inc.; tuscaloosa Chevrolet, inc.; Walker associates, inc.

OTher annual COMMITMenTs

gilmore, Poole & rowley; stressCrete, inc.; Yeager & Christian, PC

Membership 101

a feW ChamBer memBershiP Benefits

• networking: a variety of high profile networking events help members develop new business contacts and connect to potential clients.

-Chamber Connects after hours mixers are hosted monthly by a member at different locations.

-new member meet and greet takes place thirty minutes before the mixers for new members to become acquainted with other new members.

• Visibility: members receive ample resources to utilize.

-listings in the widely distributed Chamber membership directory and the online referral system on the Chamber’s website, which includes a free link to your website.

-new member listing in our monthly magazine, rising tide.

-sponsorships and advertising opportunities for a variety of events and publications.

-a plaque to show customers you are a valued member.

• referrals: the Chamber fields thousands of calls a month and our website averages 500,000 unique hits a month.

-When an inquiry is made about a specific business and how to receive contact information, only Chamber members are referred.

-the Chamber’s online membership directory and website are used by both members and non-members as resources for business listings.

• Discounts: members have access to discounts that affect their bottom line.

-member to member discounts on products/services are listed on the Chamber’s website.

-Price matching and discounts on advertising with local media outlets for new members.

-small businesses (less than 100 employees) become members of the u s Chamber, which offers numerous training opportunities, discounts on products and services, and other benefits.

• Professional Development: the Chamber offers you and your employees:

-Professional development and training opportunities at prices well below “market rates”.

-the edge – Center for entrepreneurship and innovation serves as a “one stop” center offering incubation space as well as counseling and training for students, budding entrepreneurs and existing business owners.

-access to research including current economic indicators, demographic data, statistics, relocation information and more.

-access to the professional Chamber staff and business experts who can assist you with technology, marketing, business planning, public relations, ribbon cuttings, and more.

-right to use an employee assistance Program, offered through DCh regional medical Center, which provides a variety of services for only $30 per employee, per year.

• advocacy: With more than 1,000 members representing approximately 60,000 employees, the Chamber is a strong, credible voice that represents the business community.

-lobbying for business-friendly policies, strengthening your voice.

-maintaining relationships with elected officials.

-Collaborating with the u s. Chamber, Business Council of alabama, and other Chambers in the region to promote a pro-business outline.

“As a new downtown retailer, membership in the Chamber provides my business with credibility and serves as an ongoing resource in the operation of my business. I am happy to be a part of the “First Fridays” downtown and look forward to more cooperative events and ideas. The chamber facilitates an easy way for me to meet and network with other small business owners and their efforts are much appreciated.”

Beth Mills, The Maker’s Market

Dr. sam addy Center for Business & research

Molly Ingram

DCh health system

Dan Blakley regions Bank

Bobby Bragg

Jamisonmoneyfarmer PC

Cynthia Burton Community service Programs of West alabama, inc.

Brock Corder

the Builders group of West alabama, llC

Mark Crews alabama Power Company

norman Crow

D. t. & freight Company, inc.

Jay evans roar, llC dba College station Properties

ashley gill

Chick-fil-a of northport

Jheovanny gomez Jalapenos mexican grill

2013 Board of Directors

lee henderson smoothie king

Cal holt

knight sign industries, inc.

Felyicia Jerald mercedes-Benz u s international, inc.

renwick Jones stillman College

robert kuhn, Jr.

Capstone Bank

greg leikvold Bfgoodrich tire manufacturing

alice Maxwell advantage realty group, inc.

wilson Moore Pritchett-moore, inc.

gary nichols mcabee Construction, inc.

Jim Page Chamber of Commerce of West alabama

gary Phillips Premier service Co., inc.

Jordan Plaster merrill lynch

gene Poole hudson - Poole fine Jewelers

Dr. samory Pruitt o ffice of Community Development the university of alabama

ralph ruggs tuscaloosa housing authority

Tom scroggins tanner guin & Crowell, llC

gina simpson veloCity Pro Cycle

Bert sims Way, ray, shelton & Company, P.C. - CPa

randy skagen nucor steel tuscaloosa, inc.

luke standeffer northport medical Center

Mark sullivan Bank of tuscaloosa

Chuck Turner tennis Jackson electric Co., inc. / Jackson security services

rex Veron rex veron Design, llC

Jason walker Walker associates, inc.

Fitzgerald washington, Chairman Buffalo rock Company/ Pepsi-Cola

Terry waters alabama Power Company (retired)

Terri williams at&t

Bryan winter lewis, smyth, Winter & ford, llC

american Paradise health and healing, llC P.o. Box 465 Cottondale, al 35453

americanparadisehealthll www.amy-mcdaniel.healthcoach.integrativenutrition.com

amy mcDaniel Health Care Services - General arts ‘n autism Inc. P.o. Box 20111 tuscaloosa, al 35402

www.artsnautism.org (205) 247-4990

suzanne Dowling Non-profit / Autism Theraphy-base Activities

Baldo-Downs Insurance 408 15th street tuscaloosa, al 35401 (205) 345-5958

stephen Baldo - Downs Insurance

Chick-fil-a-Tuscaloosa south 4900 old greensboro rd. tuscaloosa, al 35405 www.chick-fil-a.com/tuscaloosasouth (205) 247-9980

William Boulware Fast Food Restaurants Child First 5553 heatherbrae lane tuscaloosa, al 35405 (205) 219-1975

Patricia mcknight School - Autism Preschool Education Consumer real estate 700 23rd st., east, ste. B tuscaloosa, al 35401 (205) 657-8563

Debbie Puckett

Real Estate / Realty / Realtors Debrick Inc. P.o. Box 2442 tuscaloosa, al 35403 (205) 246-1592

Debbie Jenkins Non-Profit Organizations

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit 491 Camille lane tuscaloosa, al 35405 (205) 344-6500

raji singh Restaurants / Catering

DQ grill & Chill 3033 tyler Dr. northport, al 35476 www.krausfoods.com (205) 330-4353

John kraus Restaurants

ek J tax service 3519 24th street tuscaloosa, al 35401 (205) 722-2053

earnestine Young Tax Preparation

elite sports wellness & Chiropractic “2300 mcfarland Blvd. tuscaloosa, al 35404 Chiropractic www.crimsonchropractic.com (205) 345-2009

greg Dykes Physicians expoDisplays/Methor-1 Interiors 3401 mary taylor rd. Birmingham, al 35235 www.expodisplays.com (205) 439-8200 logan green Tradeshow & Marketing

nutritional Parenteral home Care

500 B Paul Bryant Dr., east tuscaloosa, al 35401

www.nphc.net (205) 345-4566

Forza Financial P.o. Box 20369 tuscaloosa, al 35402

www.forzafinancial.com (205) 686-4123 alexandria gilbert Financial Services grace aberdean habitat alchemy 2124 9th street tuscaloosa, al 35402 www.graceaberdean.com

Jamie Cicatiello

Art Design / Artist / Print Art

granger Thagard 1806 oxmoor rd. Birmingham, al 35209

www.gtauctions.com (205) 326-0833

g. W. (Bill) thagard Real Estate Auctions (Main)

harry’s Bar 1330 hargrove rd. tuscaloosa, al 35401 (205) 792-2741

Jake french Lounges/Nightclubs harvest select 730 energy Center Blvd., ste. 1402-e northport, al 35473

www.harvestselect.com (205) 614-6400

randy rhodes Wholesalers / Distributors

hoo’s Q 101 15th st., east tuscaloosa, al 35401

www.hoosbbq.com (205) 345-6400

Brad mcDaniel Restaurants

I zone academy 2912 north hampton tuscaloosa, al 35406

www.izoneacademy.com (205) 657-9360

milton overton Schools - Colleges & Universities

JMF Technologies. llC 2200 Jack Warner Parkway tuscaloosa, al 35401

www.jmftechnologies.com (205) 366-4082

Brian Winters Computer Sales / Serv / Repair / Design / Consult

Journey In Motion P.o. Box 20516 tuscaloosa, al 35402

www.journeyinmotion.org (205) 799-1382

elaine gay

Family Mentoring

Mclelland architecture 2316 university Blvd, ste. 200 tuscaloosa, al 35401

www.mclellandarchitecture.com (205) 792-3936

Jonathan mclelland Architects

McMillan Trucking, Inc.

380 ingate rd. Centreville, al 3504 (205) 926-9956

mike mcmillan Trucking - Hauling/Off Loading

The Estate Planning Essentials

Have You Heard…

That the Nursing Home Can Take Your House?

That You Should Transfer Your Assets to Your Children to Protect Them?

That You Need a Living Will?

Would You Like to Know…

How to Prevent Nursing Home Poverty?

How to Protect Your Life Savings?

How to Avoid Probate? How to Plan for Favorable Estate Tax & Gift Tax Treatment?

Find out how you can attend our next free estate planning workshop. To reserve your seat, contact Ann Smith at 205-764-1262

Workshop Dates on July 25, August 27, and September 26

205-764-1262

WWW.REDOAKLEGALPC.COM

Calendar of Events

jULY

ChaMBer COnneCTs aFTer hOurs

- suMMerFesT

16

SEPTEMBER

Join us at the hilton garden inn on tuesday, July 16 from 5-7pm for networking, refreshments, and a great silent auction benefitting the Boys and girls Club of tuscaloosa. the address is 800 hollywood Dr. in tuscaloosa. Prospective members are always welcome!

aUgUST

ChaMBer COnneCTs aFTer hOurs

- bryant bank

13

Join us at the Bryant museum on the university of alabama campus on tuesday, august 13 from 5-7pm for networking at this annual kickoff to alabama football season, hosted by Bryant Bank. i t’s always a good time complete with tailgating fare and tours of the museum and its current exhibits. roll tide!

e -C YC l I ng DaYs

6-7

e-cycling Days will be held september 6–7 from 9am-5pm at university mall (back parking lot, behind Belk) in tuscaloosa. recycle unwaned electronic items safely and keep them out of our landfills. this event is presented by the Chamber, the City of tuscaloosa and the City of northport. visit www.tuscaloosachamber.com for details.

ChaMBer COnneCTs sTIllMan COllege

- sTIllMan COllege

10

Join us on tuesday, september 10 from 5-7pm for networking and refreshments. the address is 3601 stillman Boulevard in tuscaloosa. again, prospective members are always welcome!